GNCPP funding sources raised red flags – former associate
friDAY, DeceMBer 19, 2014 | guYAnAtiMesgY.coM
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Friday, December 19 from 14:30h-18:00h and on Saturday, December 20 from 14:30h-16:00h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Friday, December 19 from 14:25h-15:55h and on Saturday, December 20 from 14:30h-16:00h
FERRY SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2014
Parika Departure - 01:00h and 14:00h
Supenaam Departure - 01:00h and 14:00h
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Parika Departure - 03:00h and 15:00h
Supenaam Departure - 03:00h and 15:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected to give way to sunny conditions in the morning and afternoon hours. Partly cloudy conditions are expected to prevail in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 4.02 metres per second.
High Tide: 09:31h and 22:19h reaching maximum heights of 2.96 metres and 2.76 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 15:58h reaching a minimum height of 0.73 metre respectively.
AFC/PNC/APNU coalition talks to last 6 weeks
...civil society invited
Alliance For Change (AFC) General Secretary David Patterson on Thursday confirmed that invitations have been dispatched and talks between his party and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) will commence soon.
At an AFC press conference, the General Secretary noted that among the invitees are members of civil society and trade unions. Patterson related too that six weeks have been set aside for talks on the prodemocracy alliance.
Thereafter, a decision should be announced as to whether there will be such an alliance and of equal importance, the members of that alliance. Asked about possible outcomes, Patterson said: “I don’t want to speculate. There are ongoing discussions so we don’t want to speculate on the outcome.”
Meanwhile, APNU Leader David Granger said he could not say whether the minority Opposition party AFC could play the crucial role of “Indian vote getter” should the parties hammer out a coalition deal.
It has been said that with the party gradually losing its original multi-racial appeal, the AFC has mainly been campaigning in East Indian-dominated communities, most of whom are traditional support bases for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
The Opposition group has also made no attempt to untie itself from the “Indian party” tag, with its lead-
er, Khemraj Ramjattan, going as far as declaring recently that he and Moses Nagamootoo did not attend a recent APNU rally, because they were fearful of the backlash from their supporters. The AFC decided to send two of its black leaders to the rally largely attended by Afro-Guyanese.
Waiting and see Speaking to the Guyana Times earlier this week, Granger said that APNU was waiting to see what the AFC had to say and what it brought to the table when the discussions ensue in the near future.
This was also the position posited by APNU Member of Parliament (MP) and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) representative Christopher Jones in a recent interview with the Guyana Times Jones explained that while such a coalition would be in the best interest of Guyanese, it would also be testimony to APNU’s ideology of being a partnership open to alliances.
“Essentially, it’s a good
talking point; it’s always good to have these conversations, so until we have that conversation, then we will see what the outcome will be,” said the APNU MP, “It is betterment for the country, it brings about the national unity that APNU has been proposing since before the 2011 general elections.”
In a separate interview, PNCR Chairman and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Basil Williams said that while it indeed conformed to APNU’s general ideals, the discussions will have to lead the way forward. The Chairman explained to the Guyana Times that “APNU is a partnership; it embraces many parties, NGOs and civil society…We are open to anyone who wants to join the partnership, so let’s await the discussions.”
According to Granger, who also serves as Leader of the Opposition, given the fact that APNU and the AFC are two very different entities with different values, the direction and values of any new coalition have to be worked out.
He also noted that other issues such as party finances, also have to be high priorities on the agenda when the two parties meet for discussions next week. He explained to this publication that thereafter, discussions relevant to the leadership of the coalition could take centre stage.
According to Granger, it would be inappropriate to “prejudice the talks with [such] discussions”.
The Opposition Leader maintained that at this
point, APNU was looking forward to “what the AFC has to say” when the discussions ensue.
When asked whether he believes that coalescing with the AFC would bring in more Indo-Guyanese votes for the coalition, Granger said: “I cannot say what the AFC will bring.” He, however, made reference to one of APNU’s existing partners – the Guyana Action Party (GAP).
According to the Opposition Leader, GAP has a formidable support base in Guyana’s indigenous community; however there has been no question of GAP bringing in indigenous votes.
He noted that since its formation, APNU was meant to be a multiethnic party and to date, it has not strayed from that fundamental value.
He noted too that at this point it would not be difficult going into discussions with the AFC, since the two parties already have an established working relationship in the National Assembly.
APNU Leader David Granger
AFC General Secretary David Patterson
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
The Guyana National Council on Public Policy (GNCPP) on Monday commenced what it called a series of “discussions” as part of a Summit on various public policy issues that affect Guyanese.
At first glance, the organisation headed by Dr Phillip Thomas appeared legitimate as it aimed to revitalise the seemingly “dying” Civil Society Movement in Guyana.
Thomas reportedly wanted to create change, to make the movement more “effective” in lobbying the Government so that Guyanese could impact public policy, which would automatically see them setting the country’s overall developmental and economic agenda.
The GNCPP announced that it had secured commitments of support and participation after numerous consultations with members of the diplomatic corps, local media, private sector, National Assembly, Executive, civil society groups and crippled State Agencies.
Up to this point, Thomas’s organisation appeared on solid footing until this newspaper started its investigative work, which revealed that there may be a hidden mandate being pursued by the GNCPP towards supporting an Opposition elections agenda.
Research showed that Thomas at one point had exhibited interest in running for a key leadership position in the People’s National Congress Reform after he struggled to get his Civil Society Initiative off the ground. He had also filed a bold court case against the Guyana Elections Commission challenging aspects of the country’s electoral system and laws.
That aside, a very interesting list appeared in the daily newspapers and on television with the names of persons and organisations that had either joined the GNCPP as sponsors or were nominated for various positions. Another list appeared soon after with the names of politicians and parliamentarians who were invited to attend what was billed as a “historic” summit in Guyana.
But history and time favour the ploys of no man or entity. Following the publication of their names without permission, GNCPP’s Civil Society sponsors and nominees started an outcry. Some rushed to publicly disassociate themselves while others privately expressed concerns over the GNCPP’s move.
Soon, the Office of the President urged Civil Society entities to stay away as it questioned not only the legitimacy of the agenda being pursued but the legality of the entity itself. The OP also questioned the credentials of Dr Thomas.
But this did not stop Phillips from moving ahead with the farcical initiative.
Surprisingly, a packed printed programme, featuring addresses by President Donald Ramotar, and his political opponent, David Granger, was distributed. Keynote addresses were supposed to be handed down by high-ranking figures, including Yesu Persaud and Ian McDonald while a slew of parliamentarians were supposed to be engaged in discussions.
The end result was shameful as none of the planned speakers and sponsors turned up to the event. Thomas’ GNCPP Summit suffered possibly the biggest boycott in the history of this country.
Neither the President nor Opposition Leader participated in the event or even graced it with their presence. Businesses whose logos were displayed pulled out and this had nothing to do with Government’s warning.
But this boycott has left more questions than answers. Thomas must disclose who confirmed participation at the Summit. He must come clean on the paper trail surrounding the financing of the Civil Society initiatives.
The good ‘doctor’ can ill afford to have more shade thrown at the ‘good’ initiative and must also say how persons were nominated and who nominated them. He must also frankly disclose the extent to which commitments were given by the country’s political parties.
If Thomas wants to be taken seriously again, he must publish his credentials and background information to counter the concerns raised about his qualifications and mental health.
Any failure on Thomas’ part to salvage the major blow dealt to GNCPP’s image and legitimacy will confirm the widely held perception that the initiative is being funded and backed by either the Alliance For Change, which had representation at the Summit on the second day or the A Partnership for National Unity, which sent one member.
Thomas must quickly confirm whether he was left ‘high and dry’ after the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic drew first blood and exposed the sordid attempt at forming another coalition partner for the would be AFC/PNC-APNU alliance through the backdoor.
Patricia Rodney right to partake in inquiry surrounding murder of husband
Dear Editor,
Reference is made to Freddie Kissoon’s column (December 14) in another media assailing Dr Patricia Rodney for encouraging and participating in the long overdue inquiry surrounding the assassination of her husband, the brilliant historian Prof Walter Rodney.
Given the trauma suffered by the family and friends and those of us who were admirers of the brilliant historian, doesn’t Freddie think some kind of closure is required even if held 34 years later? Wasn’t Freddie chiding the PPP/C for not holding the inquiry? How come all of a sudden he is opposed to it?
Freddie contends the PPP/C has agreed to holding the Rodney murder hearing now for “ulterior motives”. Doesn’t Freddie say he is an academic who did graduate studies in Toronto – doesn’t he know that all Government sanctioned hearings in any part of the globe have ulterior motives but out of the self- interests are revealed some truths?
For example, when Democrats or Republicans call for hearings into an issue in the US, the goal is to embarrass the Republicans and vice versa –Republicans are demanding an inquiry into the Benghazi killings.
Ditto when hearings are held in Trinidad by PNM or UNC – each wants to embarrass the other for political mileage – UNC held a hearing into the attempted Islamic coup against the NAR government and is now holding an inquiry into a scandal pertaining to construction of public housing.
A side objective of an inquiry is to make your opponent look bad, building your support in the process. And so it is with regards to the inquiry regarding the murder of Walter. That is the nature of politics. But the truths and facts surrounding the conditions of life and why Rodney was killed are also being accurately revealed.
One should not forget Dr Patrica and her family and the WPA, the party founded by Walter, had long sought this inquiry right after his assassination in June 1980. They want closure and the perpetrators of this dastardly coward act to be brought to justice (public shame) since no one will be charged for the crime.
The family begged and pleaded that the inquiry be held as recent as a year ago. And the PPP/C, under pressure from the Opposition, has finally agreed to hold it now. Freddie has conveniently left out the fact that it was not the PPP/C that brought up the issue of the inquiry in Parliament over a year ago. It was the Opposition WPA and the AFC that renewed a demand over a year ago that the inquiry be held.
The Opposition has a majority in Parliament and controlled the Speakership – they could have stopped the hearing. In fact, the Opposition threatened not to fund the hearing – they could have carried out their threat if they didn’t want the inquiry.
The hearings were extended several times with parliamentary approval and funding; Freddie’s party could have stopped the hearing.
The record would show when certain elements in the WPA realized that they won’t get their way in the hearings and that certain inconvenient truths would be exposed, they decided to boycott the inquiry.
Some of these individuals wanted the inquiry to be held according to their terms and conditions – that wasn’t political? Wasn’t there an ulterior motif behind such a demand?
Some of the individuals who decided not to partake in the inquiry, including Freddie, fear a fall out in the new alliance that the WPA has built with the PNC, which is the party accused of killing Walter.
Some of them did not want to lose their parliamentary positions – the many perks and privileges that come with being a MP, one has to applaud Ogunseye, Kwayana, Omowale, Rohit Kanhai, etc for their courage to come forward and tell the commission the truths – they did not manufacture information like Freddie and as towering figures of the WPA, they did not oppose the hearing.
Others should also have come forward to testify about how and why Walter was assassinated and the PONC Government’s efforts behind a cover up. If Freddie felt information revealed was not accurate, he can come forward and
testify counter to the claims made thus far. But Freddie is all chaffe; he lacks substance like his writings.
I met Walter Rodney in 1977 in Port Mourant during the student strikes when I was a student leader of that protest movement. Walter, Kwayana, Omowale, Father Rodrigues, Fr Morrison, etc supported us in our noble cause to reverse the unjustified “firing” of our teacher mentors.
They traveled from Georgetown all the way to Port Mourant, village of Cheddi, to console us and offer encouragement and support in our struggle against the dictator for ordering the firing of our teachers, whose only crime was to serve as our mentors of a student organization.
Unlike Freddie, Walter was a brave, charming charismatic person, a champion of human dignity.
Unlike Freddie, Walter was against injustice meted out to Indians. He stood up for what he believed in unlike some who claim to be champions of just cause but refuse to partake in a hearing to bring out the truths of how and why Walter was murdered. The latter are as culpable as those who planned and executed the murder of that great figure.
Walter did not deserve to be cut down in the prime of his life at a time when we were struggling for our liberation against the ethnic dictatorship. Walter’s children did not deserve to be raised without a father and Pat without a husband just because a dictator felt threatened.
The hearing is justified and should be continued for as long as it takes to bring out all the truths of that era on political murders. Mrs Rodney, Kwayana, Omowale, Joe Hamilton and others were right to be participants – the nation deserves the bare facts of what happened around the time of the murder.
How come Freddie has not criticized Kwayana for participating in the hearing? Was he also duped – the charge he leveled against Dr Patricia? No Freddie you are wrong again! The truths about the ethnic dictatorship are coming out of the Rodney inquiry.
Vishnu Bisram
Members of the Joint Services at their annual Christmas luncheon on Thursday at Camp Stephenson, Timehri, East Bank Demerara. At the luncheon, President Donald Ramotar announced the servicemen and women are to receive an extra month’s salary (Sandra Prince photo)
The easing of USCuba relations
Dear Editor,
We believe that the decisions and concrete steps taken by the US and Cuba to normalise bilateral relations meet the interests of both countries and global security in general.
Washington’s decisions to stop groundless accusations against Havana of alleged support of terrorism, to restore diplomatic relations, to abandon at least some limits on US citizens’ trips to the island and the swap of sentenced persons are long overdue.
We have repeatedly called on the United States to move forward and abandon all political prejudices of the past century.
We are glad to note that the elimination of obstacles for bank transfers are going under the UN General Assembly’s resolution: “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,” which the General Assembly adopts every year with Russia’s active support.
We hope for a total abolition of the US trade embargo against Cuba, which was introduced in 1961.
It is notable that the US president has acknowledged the ineffectiveness of the many-year attempts to isolate Cuba. We hope that Washington will soon realise the futility of using similar sanctions method to put pressure on other countries as well.
Denis Kopyl Press Attaché Russian Embassy
Cyber bullying in high school
Dear Editor,
To all my fellow teenagers and those old folks who are young at heart, I would like to highlight a prominent issue in high school life: cyber bullying.
The evolution of technology and the internet has benefitted humanity in many ways but it has also contributed to the degradation of its mental state. Cyber bullying affects many adolescents on a daily basis.
Cyber bullying can take many forms, such as: sending threats to a person’s email or cellular phone, spreading rumours online or through texts, “sexting” or circulating sexually suggestive pictures or messages about a person.
Cyber bullying can be very damaging to adolescents. It can lead to anxiety, depression and even suicide. Also, once things are circulated on the internet, chances are, they may never disappear.
They can resurface at later times to renew the pain of once faced from cyber bullying. Many cyber bullies think that it is funny to bullying others online. Cyber bullies may not realize the consequences of their action.
Cyber bullies and their parents may face charges for cyber bullying, and if cyber bullying was sexual in nature, it can result in being registered as a sexual offence.
Teenagers may think that by disguising under a
fake account, they won’t be caught, but there are many ways to track someone who is cyber bullying. Most of the time, when parents discover their child is cyber bullying, they revoke their child’s internet networking privileges such as Facebook and/or may remove his/her computer privileges or confiscate his/ her mobile phone.
In a worst case scenario, a cyber bully may be charged with misdemeanor, cyber harassment, and sent to a juvenile delinquency programme. It is very difficult to address teen bullying.
However, there are some things that can help prevent bullying-situations. Teenagers should be encouraged to seek friends who are supportive and kind, particularly in person. They should try to socialize in groups since bullies most often single out those who are alone.
Also, it is important to have teachers and other adult authorities present when possible to discourage bullying behaviour. In the end, it is difficult to totally prevent cyber bullying. However, good efforts should be encouraged to reduce bullying and let victims know that persons are involved in such efforts.
The best thing you can do is to encouraging victims of cyber bullying and try to help them get through their rough times as unscathed as possible.
Teenagers do not ever become entangled in cyber bullying.
Whether you are the bully or being bullied, neither results in anything beneficial to your state of being.
Remember, when caught in the act of cyber bullying you can be placed in a juvenile correction facility, tainting your records as an offender of the law. Those individuals who are being cyber bullied can enter into a state of depression and this may eventually result in suicide.
Do you readers want your future to be tainted?
I should think not! Enjoy your holiday everyone!
Andrea Balkissoon
Lorries blocking entrance to Mandir
Dear Editor,
We the members of the Cotton Field, Essequibo Coast Vedic Mandir are calling on the relevant authorizes to remove two lorries which are blocking the entrance to our mandir during prayer time.
We have made several reports to the IMC at Anna Regina and the Police Station without any help. Our members are very disturbed at the attitude displayed by both of these entities.
A senior Police officer old us that is not the Police’s job to remove lorries, which are encumbering the roadway and entrance of people’s property. He said it’s the IMC which is mandated to remove obstructions.
These two lorries are parking side by side during the day and nights in front our mandir, taking over half of the roadway, which has become a traffic hazard to lives and limbs and most of all it is an obstruction to our
church.
We know that previous Commanders who were stationed here removed parking vehicles from the roadway which were blocking people’s entrance.
We have lately built a concrete culvert which has cost the Mandir $2 million. The owner will park his lorries on our newly constructed culvert causing damages to it. We had appealed to him many times not to park his lorries and blocking our entrance, but he would still continue.
On many occasions our church members turned up for services and had to turn away because they could not enter the mandir. The owner of these lorries lives opposite our mandir, but instead of parking his vehicles on his side, he choses to block our entrance and Mandir.
We had planned also to construct the eastern side of the street running to the Caricom Rice Mills, which
will beautify the township and save the IMC millions of dollars from cleaning the drains.
This project will cost the mandir an additional $2 million, but we will only do it if we get the cooperation from the Police and IMC to prevent vehicles from damaging the culvert. The owner of these vehicles has several businesses in his yard, but would never park his lorries to disturb his business.
School children and members of the public have to navigate between them during busy days of the traffic. At night its worse, because it’s a junction with a sharp turn leading to the Caricom Rice Mills.
We are calling on the Commissioner of Police and the Traffic Chief to do something urgently so we can pray in peace.
Members Cotton Field Vedic Mandir
Police still in talks with GT&T on Suicide Hotline
Dear Editor
The Guyana Police Force is seeking to have corrected an article in the Guyana Times of December 18, in which the Commissioner of Police (acting) Seelall Persaud, DSM, was misquoted during his address at the Police Force’s Awards ceremony on December 17.
In speaking about the planned establishment of a Suicide Hotline in the Police Force, the Commissioner is misquoted in the article as having said that the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph
(GT&T) Company will be coming on board to facilitate this project, as much telecommunication equipment and skill will be needed to ensure its success.
I wish to clarify that what the Commissioner said was that the last action required to fully implement the Suicide Hotline is to receive equipment and services relating to the telephone calls.
There is no money in the Police budget to do this and (consequently) the Guyana Police Force has engaged
GT&T and has asked them to partner with the Police Force and to provide the telephone equipment and services to fully operationalise the Suicide Hotline. This engagement is still in process.
I shall be grateful if a correction can be made to the publication which was done under the article headlined, “Top Cop upbeat about success of strategic plan.”
Ivelaw Whittaker Public Relations and Press Officer
Opposition wooed by cash rich Thomas
At least three Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) on Thursday attended the widely maligned civil society encounter being hosted by the cash-rich Dr Phillip Thomas. Alliance For Change (AFC) Members of Parliament Cathy Hughes and Trevor Williams and A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) Dr Karen Cummings were the Opposition parliamentarians who showed up on the second day of the Guyana National Council on Public Policy (GNCPP) summit at its High Street, Kingstown, Georgetown office.
The second day of the three-day summit of discussions on public policy
hosted by the GNCPP also found the entity buckling under pressure; shifting its meeting from the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown to its office here in Georgetown.
The three parliamentarians were a poor representation of the 65-seat legislature, who were all slated to be present, along with President Donald Ramotar at Wednesday’s session.
With a much smaller audience at the secretariat’s building, stakeholders gathered to continue discussions on the way forward as the Council under the chairmanship of Dr Thomas sought to realise its objectives through discussions which seek a transition into a new dispensation of peace within society.
Force to cancel
Dr Thomas, speaking with Guyana Times just before the second session on Thursday afternoon, said the Council was
forced to cancel the segment which would have included Members of Parliament, because of their lack of interest in participating.
He said he had hoped for the full participation of all Members of Parliament at the event.
“What we have done we have cancelled this session, it is not practical that we do not want to speak to one side. We must be speaking to all on the political spectrum, that’s how we must engage,” the Chairman said.
He maintained that his organisation, unlike popular belief, is not aligned to any political body.
“That’s not who we are, that’s not what we do, that’s not what we will be doing,” he stressed, continuing that
the organisation will be maximising its current position on the “demand side”.
Apart from the warning issued by Government through the Office of the President, critics say that the summit, which was expected
NAMILCO warns against mislabelled flour
The National Milling Company of Guyana Inc (NAMILCO) has sounded the alarm that a product labelled “All Purpose Flour” being sold locally is not one of its products.
The flour company said, in a statement, the product is being sold in one- and two-kilogram packets which do not state the Country of Origin. The omission appears deceptive as “by stating the Country of Origin, it will be clear to the consumer that he/she is buying a product that originated from another country”.
NAMILCO stressed: “We are the only flour mill in Guyana and we sell all of
our flour and flour mixes in properly labelled packaging under the THUNDERBOLT and MAID MARIAN Brands. We do not allow anyone to package our flour under any other brand name. As such, we are making the public aware that the contents in these packages are not from NAMILCO and we do not know the source. We bring this to the attention of consumers since our Return Policy guarantees, in the unlikely event you are not satisfied, we will exchange or refund you the cost.”
The company said it prided itself on the rigorous steps it has taken to ensure safe and high-quality products are sold to consumers,
spending millions of dollars each year to ensure its ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems are constantly reviewed and adhered to in order to maintain our certifi-
cation.
It pointed out that its facilities were frequently visited by the regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with all standards and laws.
“We ensure that the highest standards of food safety are followed and our production process ensures the product goes from the mill directly to the bags/ packets with no external contact.”
The flour company stated that it would not be liable for any dissatisfaction or injury as a result of consuming any flour other than Namilco’s Thunderbolt and Maid Marian flours.
It reiterated its call for the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department to ensure proper food safety requirements are followed for the repackaging of flour and that labelling requirements are in adherence to the local standards.
to rein in a wide cross-section of participants, including an elite group of presenters, has been a farce.
Critics say too that the conference has been reduced to a one-man show, where Dr Thomas remains the only presenter at the sessions which began at the conference centre on Wednesday.
Concerns began mounting over the legitimacy of the conference after all of the presenters listed on the programme to participate did not show up. Novelist Ian McDonald and renowned businessman Dr Yesu Persaud were slated to participate at the opening session, but neither showed up.
At Thursday’s session, President Donald Ramotar and Opposition Leaders David Granger and Khemraj Ramjattan were expected to speak; however, none of them appeared at the forum.
Both the President and Granger have distanced themselves from the organisation and Dr Thomas. Ramotar had told Guyana Times on Wednesday that he did not give Dr Thomas or any one from the organisation permission to publish his name on the programme. He said too that he would not be attending the forum. APNU’s leader David Granger had also publicly removed himself from any association with the GNCPP.
Meanwhile, Dr Thomas said that the organisation made the decision to move the summit for various reasons.
“We made the decision to move the summit to the secretariat. It was the prudent thing to do to absorb ourselves from the liability that was created by the reckless and vicious comments that were made by the Office of the President.
Dr Thomas said the pressure was felt from Government, particularly from the warning coming out from OP. That has impacted the support base of the organisation, Dr Thomas said.
Many of the support have “dried up” because of what was done, the Chairman related, nothing that they have communicated their fear of being victimised.
“So when folks call you and tell you that we cannot do this, because, I have to be watchful of myself, you have to make prudent decisions.”
On Tuesday evening, the Office of the President warned Guyanese against becoming involved with the organisation and its Chairman, Dr Thomas, who it had said has a shady past.
Billed as a forum to formalise the over 4000 registered civil society organisations here, the GNCPP engagement is being seen in many circles as an attempt to create another group similar to that of the defunct “reform” group, which joined up with the Desmond Hoyte-led PNC in 2001.
National Milling Company of Guyana products
Opposition Leader David Granger
AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan
If not Sterling invasion…
What gets SWAT out of bed?
The Guyana Police Force’s decision not to deploy its Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) Unit in the current fragile state of its Christmas security plan has raised eyebrows and criticisms from both citizens and the business community.
Many citizens are of the view that the unit should have been deployed at the recent invasion of the Sterling Products Limited complex at Providence, East Bank Demerara by a gang of about 10 gunmen, but the hierarchy of the Force says that the specially-trained men are to confront major crimes.
According to acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud, the fact that the SWAT Unit has not been deployed since its establishment earlier this year augurs well for the security sector.
This is so, he explained, since it means that there has not been a serious or high profile situation that warranted the presence of the highly-trained team.
“So far, the unit has never been deployed and I’ll be happy if I can come here next year and report that it has never deployed. It means that serious security situation has no arisen in Guyana,” the acting Police Commission pointed out.
Persaud disclosed that while the highly-skilled team has completed the overseas-based training, the local training will be ongoing in order to keep the unit “alive” and active.
Additionally, he stated that tactical and weapons training will be done with all the ranks within the Guyana Police Force.
Earlier this year, the country’s first batch of SWAT officers was introduced to Guyana when the training programme was launched at the Police Training Centre. The establishment of the SWAT Unit was done through collaboration between the Government of Guyana and US-based security and justice reform consultancy firm, The Emergency Group (TEG).
GNCPP funding sources raised red flags – former associate
area of governance. The GNCPP delegation comprised Dr Thomas, Attorney Clarissa Riehl, GNCPP Attorney Adrian Thompson, Reverend Dexter Sanulotte, veteran Trade Unionist Norris Witter, Amerindian Rights Advocate Patricia Phillips, Civil Society Advocate Shabakie Fernandes, law student Tracy Chan-Smith, Advertising Executive Vic Insanally and Public Relations Advisor Allan Fenty.
Erratic
T“Most of the high profile suspects since the unit has been in place were arrested by patrols even before we know about their whereabouts. They know, they move, they arrest,” he told Guyana Times
The acting Commissioner made reference to the recent robbery of a Montrose, East Coast Demerara supermarket earlier this week, where Police shot and killed two bandits during an armed confrontation.
Persaud pointed out that he will not allow the SWAT Unit to work along with the Police. He posited that the team was highly-trained for special and high profile matters and will remain intact until such situations arise.
Will be happy
The Commissioner outlined that the deployment of the SWAT Unit is controlled by conditions set out in the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and will have to be authorised by the Police Commissioner based on assessment of the situation. He stressed that the unit will be deployed only in high profile situations and for the arrest of high profile suspects. However, the acting Commissioner pointed out that in most cases, the regular patrols have been successful in apprehending such criminals without the help of the unit.
Asked what will happen if there is no “high profile” or “serious situation” that would require the presence of the SWAT Unit, the acting Commissioner said that he will be happy if that is the case, noting that it would mean that the country’s security
has not been threatened to such a dire extent.
The acting Police Commissioner dismissed any consideration of allowing the elite unit to work along with the Police to conduct regular policing operations just to keep the members active.
“That (SWAT Unit) is a tool to be used for specific action, for a specific deployment…. You know if you have a tool, you only use it in a situation, it’s always good that you have it so if the situation arises again then you have it on hand to use,” he said.
Commissioner Persaud remarked that Australia never had a hostage situation before, but they had one recently, noting that the Force will be keeping the SWAT Unit on hold until needed, especially during his tenure as top cop.
In October 2013, the US$796,987 contract was signed between the Home Affairs Ministry and US based-high level team to train the 27- member elite unit. The members of the local SWAT Unit were chosen based on their age, health, mindset, years of service, experience and their overall conduct.
The objective behind establishing a SWAT team was to create additional crime-fighting strategies to deal with serious crimes beyond the capacity of the Police Force.
The SWAT team will also be tackling small pockets of crime in Guyana.
Of recent, persons have been commenting on the inaction of the high-profile unit that many thought was much needed for the country, given the fluctuating crime situation.
Only recently, following the robbery/murder carried out at Sterling Products, Providence, East Bank Demerara, there were concerns raised about the absence of the team at the scene.
he Civil Society Summit which has fizzled following public criticisms of the organiser, Dr Phillip Thomas had begun to crumble long before the Donald Ramotar Administration had advised citizens against it.
This is according to a former associate of the Guyana National Council on Public Policy (GNCPP), the organisation facilitating the summit. The former member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) who requested anonymity, said she was initially approached by GNCPP Chairman, Dr Phillip Mozart Thomas to assist in the facilitation of the Civil Society Summit which was originally billed for September.
“At first, he had an impressive group of people,” she recalled, positing that after a round of discussions, they met with the then US Ambassador D Brent Hardt in January, 2014.
At the time, GNCPP engaged the US Ambassador on the emergence of Guyana’s civil society and the important role it should play in the
But the former associate said Dr Thomas’ behaviour became erratic following that meeting. “He was talking big but nobody knew where the funding was coming from. Then there was a time he left the country without any formal notification on the way forward,” she explained. According to the former PNCR member, initial supporters of the GNCPP began “shelling”.
“I had a bad feeling about it and I did not want to be involved in any controversy so I stayed away,” she further explained. According to her, the Civil Society Summit was a good idea, but Dr Thomas may be the “wrong individual to talk about it”. The summit begun on Wednesday but the programme was altered due to the absence of some of the main speakers. Guyanese writer Ian McDonald and business magnate Yesu Persaud were all listed to speak at the event but none of them turned up. There were also several other items on the agenda, including performances by Comedian Henry Rodney, which also did not come off.
Acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud
GNCPP Chairman, Dr Phillip Thomas
Tuschen triple murder:
9-year-old girl killed saving mom
– two others murdered as man goes berserk
Three persons are now dead after they were hacked to death on Thursday morning at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo. Another person is critical following the chopping incident.
Villagers are in a state of shock following the gruesome murder of Bibi Zalima Khan, 55; Ashley Boodhoo, 9; and Floyd Drakes, 30, all of Phase Two, Tuschen New Housing Scheme, and the attempted murder of Geeta Boodhoo.
According to information gathered, the suspect, Joshua Franklyn, also of Tuschen, broke several louver panes to gain access to the home and started to chop the occupants indiscriminately. The now hospitalised Boodhoo, Khan and Drakes were reportedly having a few drinks when the incident occurred.
Nine-year-old Ashley was in the bedroom with her five siblings when she heard the commotion and went to the rescue of her mother but not before instructing her brothers and sisters to hide under a bed. As she went into the
living room area, she was chopped several times by the suspect. In a bid to escape, she ran towards the kitchen area where she collapsed and later died.
Khan, her grandmother, reportedly died in the living room while Drakes was found next to a toilet in the yard. Boodhoo, Franklyn’s reputed wife, escaped and hid at a neighbour’s home. At the scene, there were shattered glass, beer bottles and blood everywhere.
Eon Inniss, the neigh-
bour at whom Boodhoo took refuge, was washing the blood from his veranda when the Guyana Times visited, and related that about 00:15h on Thursday morning, he was awakened by a woman’s voice calling for help.
This promoted him to look through the window and upon enquiring, the now injured woman told him that her mother was dead. This bombshell was followed by total silence. Soon after, he heard the woman’s other
daughter screaming that her grandmother was dead and as such, instructed her to keep running since the suspect was chasing after her.
Inniss immediately contacted a friend at Parika Police Station and related what the woman had said. While doing so, he said he heard a loud banging on the door followed by the suspect’s voice saying “Samantha, I know meh wife deh in deh… send she out let me deal with she #$#$^#$%&$^^&%#”.
He said he collected a chopper and told Franklyn that his reputed wife was not there and that he must leave his yard. As he looked through the window, he saw the suspect leaving on his pedal cycle.
“Because it was dark, de woman hide behind the car that de park under the house… so when he come in through the gate instead he walk around the car, he walk around the step so he couldn’t see the woman.”
As Inniss closed the windows, he heard Boodhoo’s frail voice coming from his platform, and opened the door – she was lying on the floor in a pool of blood.
By this time, one Police rank had arrived at the scene and subsequently called for assistance. As they went into the home where the chopping incident occurred, he saw Khan lying in the sitting area with her hand severed and a gash to her neck and when he looked closer, he saw the young girl in the kitchen.
She, too, had a huge gash to her head. At that time, Drakes was not seen, but he was found some two hours after in the backyard. He received the brunt of the attack, since there were chop wounds all over his back, head, abdomen and feet.
The bodies were removed from the house about 03:00h after the Police completed their initial investigation.
Inniss stated that the suspect was always a quiet person, but the Guyana Times understands that he was charged for assaulting his reputed wife earlier in the year. When this publication visited a sister of the injured woman, her surviving children were there. The sister, Sharda, however, was at the Leonora Police Station, but refused to speak with the media.
Boodhoo had taken out a restraining order against Franklyn and wanted to end their relationship. She had decided to commence a new relationship with Drakes and the accused became annoyed. She is now in critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital following the dastardly attack, while the perpetrator has gone into hiding.
Eyew tness
Thinkpol...
...in Guyana
In George Orwell's dystopian "1984", we learn about the "Thought Police" - otherwise known as "Thinkpol". They're supposed to ferret out transgressions that are only being THOUGHT about.
Don't ask us "how?"...that's not the point. The point Orwell was making about the "totalitarian imperative" is there are folks who're so convinced of their "rightness"... they'll try to silence contra opinions by whatever means necessary. Think Nazis and gas chambers.
Orwell was spoofing totalitarian Governments...but this urge to deny the freedom of thought to others is alive and kicking in lots of folks outside of Government. And not surprisingly, you'll find most of them doing their darndest to get into Government - to have the full apparatus of the state to silence "the other".
Take this fella Ruel Johnson who still doesn't accept he's much too long in the tooth to play the enfant terrible. He just comes across as mean, petty, spitefuland gauche. Look at his recent attack on Ian McDonald. Now McDonald isn't this Eyewitness' favourite cup of tea. But hey!! Whatever drivel or doggereled opinion he wants to put out...it's a free country no?? Well, not if you ask Johnson.
Prodded on why he didn't leave his papers to UG rather than UWI, McDonald replied, "I do not believe, even with all the efforts being made, that Guyana has a matching facility.” Now, how dare he say that!!?? What the heck does McDonald mean by mentioning "all the efforts being made"?? Doesn't he know that not an iota of effort was expended to improve Guyana's archival capacity??
And even if he knows different, how dare he express the thought in print?? If Johnson and posse had the equipment McDonald's brain would've been fried the moment he had that treasonable thought!
But going even further, Johnson demanded that we forget the "sterling literary credentials" of McDonald . We should note "the social, and perhaps moral, limitations of his (McDonald's) interventions into the reality of life and politics in Guyana."
Whew...that's quite a mouthful!! What "reality of life in Guyana"? That he cobbled Johnson's first book of poems and entered him for the Guyana Prize?? That he was silent when the soon bloated-headed Johnson ripped viciously into his wife and the mother of his child on social media??
Politics?? That McDonald didn't intervene with the Ministry of Culture when Johnson demanded to be made Editor of the Guyana Press at $3 million??
The moral?? We'll give a rain check on that. That litany will be longer than the collected works of Karl Marx. And as tedious!!
...on prorogation
Ahhh...how low has the mighty fallen!! The WPA's holding a symposium on "prorogation" and they can't field all the speakers from their ranks?? They'd better be careful - they might be taken for that Thomas fella - with more letters behind his name than the dictionary - but unable to get a single invited reputable person to be at his side!!
And he doesn't even have Kuh Kuh Beh!!
So guess who's accompanying Dr Clive Thomas at the head table?? Carl Greenidge!!! The same Greenidge Thomas skinned up so badly when he (Greenidge) was PNC's Finance Minister - he was laughed out of every gathering of progressive economists since!
We'd sure like to hear what this enemy of Walter Rodney will say about "prorogation" as a political weapon!! So while he was basking in Brussels, Greenidge was boning up on political strategy - as well as Brussels Sprouts!??
Of the third panellist, the less said the better - Chris "Lalloo" Ram. What can a 70-year old, fresh out of law school, say about "the legality of prorogation"?? It can be "tweezed"??
...on prosecution
Mook Lall knows which limb to jump on - Lalloo Ram's. That publicity hound's only reason to be at the side of Lall on the latter's protest in front of the DPP's was to get his photo in a paper!!
Eon Inniss, the neighbour at whose home the perpetrator’s reputed wife hid, speaking to the media
Caribbean leaders welcome new chapter in US-Cuba relations
Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders on Wednesday welcomed the new chapter in diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba with St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves describing the event as one “of earthshattering proportions”.
President Barack Obama announced the re-establishment of diplomatic relations as well as an easing in economic and travel restrictions on Cuba, declaring an end to America’s “outdated approach” to the communist island in a historic shift that aims to bring an end to a halfcentury of Cold War enmity. Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro made simultaneous announcements in their respective capitals, announcing the moves to normalise the diplomatic relations that were broken after Fidel Castro established the first communist state in the Western Hemisphere after leading an overthrow of the military dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista
in 1959.
Washington imposed a trade and economic embargo on the island following the move by Castro and Caribbean Governments joined several international countries in denouncing the move. Obama
said Washington will also open an Embassy in Havana in the coming months and the moves on Wednesday were part of a deal that saw the release of American Alan Gross by Cuba and the release of three Cubans jailed in Florida for spying.
Obama hailed the move as the “most significant changes in US policy towards Cuba in 50 years”. Prime Minister Gonsalves, who over the years has developed close ties with both Venezuela and Cuba, said while there were still several issues still be to ironed out, “many of the things which President Obama has spoken about… are inside the CubaCaricom communiqué of last week and the ALBA summit
of Sunday”.
He said he had longed for the day when the “fracturing of the Western Hemisphere would be healed and it appears that there is a dramatic commencement of that healing”.
Great rejoicing
“This is a day of great rejoicing,” Dr Gonsalves said, adding that he was now looking forward to the Summit of the Americas in Panama, where both Cuba and the US would be represented by their Heads of State.
“It will be wonderful for us to be at the Summit of the Americas and it is almost too good to believe it is true to see the President of the United States and the President of Cuba sitting down in the hemispheric family like that... it is a day in which I look forward to and I hope the good Lord keeps me to see that situation,” Dr Gonsalves told Parliament Wednesday.
He sought an early adjournment of Parliament as he said Kingstown had to be kept abreast of the “event of earth-shaking proportions”.
Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace said he too was looking forward to “a deepening of that relationship”.
St Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas also welcomed the announcement of improved relations between Cuba and the US, saying Basseterre joined with Governments the world over in long asserting “that the half-century old policy of the United States toward Cuba
advanced the interests of neither the United States nor those of the Cuban people”.
“The decision of the United States to no longer be the only country on earth dedicated to the isolation of Cuba is therefore a most welcome development in the eyes of the international community. It reflects the determination of the Obama administration to steadfastly and meticulously re-examine and re-cast policies that do not work, and to do so in the interest of advancing global peace and stability. For this, President Obama deserves great praise.”
Historic decision
Prime Minister Douglas said that his twin island Federation had benefitted from many years of constructive bilateral relations with Cuba, “and we look forward to witnessing the benefits that are sure to accrue to the Governments and peoples of both the United States and Cuba as a result of this histor-
ic decision”. Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell said he was elated at the development. “Today is a historic day in the life of the Cuban people. Today, the United States has answered the call of humanity. Today, the United States has finally heard what Caribbean leaders have always said, and what has been
proven: their decades’ long policy of isolationism of Cuba has not worked. It is way past time to remove the embargo. It is the progressive, wise, and right thing to do.
“The modern day realities of globalisation demand that this be done. Cuba too, understands that they need to move with the times,” Dr Mitchell said, recalling his remarks at the Bolivarian Alliance of the Americas (ALBA) summit in Cuba, when he reiterated the region’s collective gratitude to Cuba for its contribution to regional development, and called for the US to remove the more than five decades old
embargo on Cuba.
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said she welcomed the resumption of diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba and that Port of Spain had over the years called for an end to the trade embargo.
In a statement, she recalled her address to the United Nations General Assembly in September where she noted that “on the point of a revitalised global partnership in support of sustainable development I would wish to strongly reiterate the support of Trinidad and Tobago for an end to the economic embargo against Cuba”.
Huge leap
She said “today’s announcement by President Obama and President Castro is a huge leap in a positive direction. Socially, economically, geographically, we are all joined in a common mission of a better and more secure life for our people.
President Donald Ramotar
St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves
TT Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar
Cuban President Ruel Castro
US President Barrack Obama
Princess Fun City spreads Christmas cheer to children, elderly
Princess Fun City hosted a grand fun day on Tuesday for children of Food for The Poor Guyana and residents of the Palms where they were treated to a lineup of promising activities to boost their Christmas spirits.
The events started from 11:00h and lasted until 17:00h, giving the beneficiaries six hours of utmost fun.
The elderly were treated to a spa deluxe experience, where their nails were painted and they received feet massages while the children had all the fun in the world at the state-of-the-art game arcade.
Both parties enjoyed movies at the Princess Fun
City Theatre and were equally pleasured with delicious meals and snacks.
Special gifts were distributed to the overjoyed children, who had the opportunity to play with Santa Claus.
Marketing representative of Princess Fun City
Ally Williams noted that the hotel hosts such initiatives throughout the year where they provide special offer to youth groups and religious organisations. She stated that in keeping with the Christmas season, Fun City reached out to these groups to provide them with the experience of a wonderful time for the holidays.
Caribbean leaders welcome...
“After almost half a century, two very close neighbours have started talking again and we can expect a great deal of benefit to redound to the people of both nations and indeed to the entire region,” Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar added.
The Government of Guyana said it welcomes the decision and “views this as a progressive step towards the development of constructive relations between the United States of America and Cuba which will redound to the benefit of these two countries and the hemisphere as whole.
“The Government wishes to congratulate President Obama on this brave and just decision and hopes that these actions will lead to an early end to the economic, commercial and financial blockade which the United States of America has pursued for the last 54 years against the Cuban people. It is our hope that the measures announced will be implemented without any hindrance.
“We congratulate and salute President Raul Castro on the headways made which were no doubt occasioned by his continued willingness to dialogue with President Barack Obama.
“We also wish to acknowledge the critical role played by Pope Francis and the Vatican and the Government of Canada in facilitating the discussions between the US and Cuba which have resulted in this promising end,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.
In a statement, the Guyana-based Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat said it welcomed the thawing of
relations between the US and Cuba and the move towards the re-establishment of diplomatic ties.
“Caricom has long been an advocate for the normalisation of these relations and has raised the issue repeatedly in its interaction with both parties,” Caricom Secretary General Irwin La Rocque said.
“Today’s announcement signals the beginning of a new era in our hemisphere and demonstrates the value of dialogue as a means of settling differences. The Community commends Presidents Obama and Castro for their bold initiative. Both Cuba and the United Sates have played major roles in assisting the development efforts of our member states and we look forward to working together with them as they move forward in building their relationship.”
Lifting embargo
But he said while Caricom welcomes this positive development, “the Community looks forward to further steps being taken with despatch towards the lifting of the economic, trade and financial embargo”.
In his address, President Obama announced measures that he said would end an “outdated approach that for decades has failed to advance our interests”.
The plans set out by Washington include reviewing the designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, easing a travel ban for US citizens, easing financial restrictions, increasing telecommunications links and efforts to lift the 54-year-old trade embargo.
Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS) José Miguel Insulza
in welcoming the new initiative, congratulated President Obama “for having taken these historic steps, as necessary as they are courageous, to restore diplomatic relations broken off in 1961.
“This is a decision of great vision on both sides, because this conflict, which has significant negative implications for citizens of both countries, had stagnated politically for too long,” he said.
The Secretary General said “the measures announced today open a path to normalisation from which there is no return,” and asked the United States Congress to “take the necessary legislative measures to lift the embargo against Cuba, which remains in force.
“President Obama has been clear about the need to change a policy that produced neither benefits nor results for 50 years, and only complicated the lives of millions of citizens. We hope that Congress understands this as well.”
The head of the OAS expressed his happiness at the release of Alan Gross, as well as Gerardo Hernández, Ramón Labañino and Antonio Guerrero, saying that their imprisonment “was the product of a past that should not return”.
Secretary General Insulza also praised “the role of the international community in facilitating talks between Washington and Havana” and urged both Governments “to continue to rely on their neighbours and friends to continue reaching agreements leading to full normalisation of contacts between two key countries of these, our Americas”.
Nobody followin de leadah
Wid elections comin up soon, every body want a followin to follow de leadah. In other words, every body want people behind dem. And that is because every body want to be a leadah. Even de paper man wanna be a leadah.
De other day, Rum Jhaat had want some body behind he wid a good whip. That is because Rum Jhaat love a good whippin from behind. He behind had get a good whippin in de last two elections. Plus he behind had getta another good whippin when he had get kick in he butt outta de Pee-P-P.
Cling Tongue wanna be a leadah a long time now too. Ever since he couldn’t a mek it to be de Pee-S-C leadah, he always in sum ting else wid people behind he. So whether is Blue Caps or lil gyals, he fightin to be leadah. De problem is that Cling Tonque can’t lead no body, except lead a bowl of soup to a table.
When people idle is a terrible ting. That is why old people seh a idle mind is a terrible mind. And a terrible mind is a terrible ting to have.
Five old man ain’t had nutten to do de other day. So dem end up linin up pun de road wid some paper in dem hand. De only problem was that dem was also lookin to get people behind dem. But to deh behind Lalloo, de paper man and de Man Kissser is a terrible ting.
Green Jah is another one who want people behind he. Green Jah tryin real hard to be a leadah, because that is whah he does call he self. But these days, not even he own party people seein he as de leadah. So not even dem deh behind he.
Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Well, as fuh de Thomas man, he even had to change de place fuh people to be behind he. De people who suppose to show up behind he ain’t show up fuh nutten. And dem who show up was hidin dem face!
A group of ecstatic children with Santa Claus at Fun City on Tuesday
Guyana to get blood bank for pregnant women
– through cooperation with Argentina GRC Shelter renamed
BY ROYDEN JAMES
Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran has announced that Guyana is partnering with Argentina to set up a blood bank here catering specifically to the needs of pregnant women as he praised the contribution of the Argentine Government to the local health sector.
The Minister made the disclosure at a reception hosted by Argentine Ambassador Luis A Martino on Wednesday at the Cara Lodge Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown.
The two countries are looking to strengthen their bilateral relations, and Dr Ramsaran reported to the sizable gathering which included Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips and Protected Areas Commission Chairman Damian Fernandez that several local health professionals have underwent training in Argentina.
The Technical Cooperation Agreement between the two countries provides for the exchange of resources, technology and knowledge under the South-South Cooperation Agreement, which the Minister said is alive and well in Guyana.
He pointed out that the blood bank will be of great benefit to Guyana.
“We here at the Ministry of Health believe that no one should die while giving life, so we had decided to partner
with Argentina again through the South-South Cooperation Project to open a blood bank in Guyana to cater specifically for pregnant women.”
Dr Ramsaran said Guyana is looking to forge closer ties with its South American counterparts since most of them are developed and could handle the challenges it faces, instead of having to turn to the US and China for help.
Ambassador Martino said the South-South Cooperation Agreement is an important instrument for international cooperation.
He explained that it provides opportunities for developing countries and countries with economies in transition to achieve their individual and collective pursuit in economic growth and sustainable development.
The diplomat pointed out
that Argentina’s foreign policy is geared towards preserving and defending its interests and sovereignty as well as the rights of the people both regionally and globally.
He said his country’s international cooperation policy reflects its sense of belonging to Latin America and the Caribbean and the developing world.
Horizontal cooperation
“And we also share the belief that cooperation should be horizontal with our countries partnering to work together and identify the most appropriate strategies and policies to satisfy our mutual needs and to overcome the challenges posed by our development as sovereign states,” the Ambassador said.
On this note, he said Argentina has realised the
importance of the SouthSouth Cooperation and has created the Argentine Fund for South-South and Triangle Cooperation (FO. AR)
Ambassador Martino reported that over the past 20 years, the fund has enabled the development and implementation of international technical cooperation and bilateral and triangular projects.
This has happened through a partnership, whereby Argentinean experts and their partnering countries work together on exchange programmes and implementation of public policies that favour inclusive development, democratic governance, scientific and technical progress, and respect for human rights.
Martino also disclosed that in the last decade, Argentina’s South-South Cooperation at the bilateral level has experienced remarkable improvements, both in terms of quality and number of projects.
He said the number of Argentine institutions involved in these projects has been increasing over the years as well as the number of projects, and this aside, Argentine is looking to expand the Technical Cooperation Agreement to more countries.
He said already the increase in cooperation has led to the signing of new and diverse cooperation agreements at the bilateral and multilateral levels with integration
The Guyana Relief Council (GRC) Shelter was officially renamed the “Yvonne Hinds Home of Hope” at a simple ceremony at its Ruimveldt, Georgetown location.
The GRC announced that it will be closed for the holidays from December 19 to January 7; however, in the event of an emergency, persons can contact Andre Wilson on 223-1568.
agencies in the Caribbean,
These, he said are aimed at strengthening and searching for long-lasting inter-regional dialogue and relationship.
It is against this backdrop, and particularly after the reopening of the Embassy in Georgetown in 2011, Argentina has been trying to strengthen cooperation with local private and public sector institutions.
The Ambassador said over the past five years un-
The GRC held its final fundraiser for 2014, a Silent Auction from December 3 to 5, which saw donations from various supporters who made the event a grand success.
The Council noted that the funds will go towards alleviating the trauma persons suffer during disaster or are in difficult circumstances.
The GRC executives and members of staff extend heartfelt gratitude to their supporters who continue to assist the Council in fulfilling its mandate throughout the year.
For the year 2014, assistance was provided for 45 families (188 persons) whose home was affected by fire, two families (14 persons) whose homes were destroyed by high winds, 46 cases (368 persons) of persons who were in need of welfare and related circumstances and six organisations.
der the paradigm of horizontal cooperation, Guyana and Argentina have succeeded in putting in place a wide array of bilateral projects in a range of areas, including health, tourism, culture, defense and foreign policy. Guyana and Argentina are currently working on some new projects in the areas of public health, specifically in building and strengthening human resource capacity and skill and the exchange of knowledge and technology.
GRC Chairperson Yvonne Hinds
Argentina’s Ambassador Luis A Martino speaks in the presence of Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran at the reception at the Cara Lodge Hotel on Wednesday
GGMC commissions $70M office in Region Nine
With the commissioning of the $70 million Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Office in Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) on Wednesday, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry and stakeholders are hoping for an improvement of services in the mining sector.
At a simple ceremony to announce the commissioning of the office, GGMC Chairman Clinton Williams noted that the new branch is the first of seven other district offices that will be established within the next four months.
He stated that these offices will be up to standard and provide the same facilities as the Head Office in Georgetown.
Williams also mentioned that the investment in these branches throughout Guyana is an indication of the Government’s confidence in the mining sector.
Additionally, he pointed out that several activities such as lotteries and auctions, increased availability of mining lands, forthcoming plans for better roads, among others, are an indication of Government’s confidence in the sector.
With the establishment of the new branch, it is hoped that the illegal trade of precious metals will be reduced if not eliminated.
Natural Resources and
Environment Minister Robert Persaud noted that it is a disturbing situation and efforts need to be made to bring an end to such lawlessness.
The new office aims to ensure proper management and enforcement of the mining laws in Guyana.
Also with the presence of the new office, the Minister hopes it fosters developmental opportunities for local miners considering an office is now within their reach.
On that note, Minister Persaud stated that miners from Aishalton have expressed an interest in expanding their mining operations and now with a new office, officials can work with them and the community to provide opportunities for such in a way that does not cause harm or pollute the environment.
Furthermore, the
Minister noted that it is not only about the growth of the sector, but it must be done in a manner that serves it people.
During the ceremony, it was disclosed that work is in progress to have an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office, Protected Areas Commission (PAC) Office and a Guyana Gold Board Office established in the area, in the near future.
In addition, Region Nine residents were encouraged to interact with regional officials and demand that their needs be met.
Minister Persaud charged them to report any difficulties they encounter with such demands so as to ensure they are a part of the development taking place in the area.
“Agencies of the state ought not to and should not operate in isolation of the communities.”
42 buses likely to have diverted routes
Amid the chaos on the zone 42 minibus park, especially during the peak hours in the late afternoon and early evenings, Public Works Minister Robeson Benn has suggested the implementation of diverted routes as a solution to the problem.
Between 16:30h-19:00h , pandemonium breaks out on the park as hundreds of passengers are left stranded in frustration over the operation of minibuses there.
Reports indicate that commuters have been complaining for months over the fact that the minibuses that are traditionally allocated for the “Short Grove” route alter their course and operate for the “Diamond Inside” market instead, leaving persons with no intention of traversing inside the Diamond/ Grove Housing Scheme stranded on the park.
However, of course, persons who make stops before the buses enter the scheme can travel with the “Diamond Inside” buses, but they have to pay $160 as opposed to $60, $80, $100 as they would with the initial “Short Grove” buses.
Bus operators defended their actions by explaining that working the “Diamond Inside” route is a better marketing strategy because it generates more income by travelling a lesser distance, therefore burning less fuel and resulting in more profit.
Nevertheless, this crisis has resulted in much anger and annoyance from commuters who feel that stringent systems
need to be in place to address the problem as they mainly rely on the buses to take them home.
Gakaran Sukhdeo of Old Road Craig, East Bank Demerara told this publication that he had approached the Public Works Ministry regarding the situation. He noted that an official told him that only two things can be done: to increase the fares so the buses will work the routes without complaint or change the route number to specifically label the buses 42 A and 42 B.
Speaking with Guyana Times via telephone, Minister Benn mentioned that the most probably solution to the problem would be to change the routes as increasing the fares would be unfair to commuters.
However, the process of making such a change will be a long and tedious one.
According to Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee,
whose Ministry is responsible for the allocation of public transportation zones, numerous consultations will have to be undertaken before any such change can happen.
He stated that his Ministry will have to meet and discuss with the Traffic Department, the Public Works Ministry, among other stakeholders, to determine what action will be in the best interest of the nation.
Moreover, Rohee stated that he is not in a position to disclose the best course of action as he has not been able to “study” the issue as yet.
Furthermore, he stated that to his knowledge, no one ever made a complaint to the Home Affairs Ministry about the concern.
Nevertheless, Rohee stated that is would be untimely and inappropriate to embark on such a venture now considering “we’re in the middle of the Christmas season”.
HERO medics celebrate 14 years of medical missions
By Tangerine Clarke
Guyana’s Health and Education Relief Organisation (HERO) brought holiday cheer to St Stephens Church Hall in Brooklyn last Thursday, to share and celebrate the group’s medical missions to Guyana during the last 14 years.
The humanitarians enjoyed the festivities during an evening of stirring deejay music and festive Guyanese fare, but what was uppermost on their minds, was the success of their 2014 mission to Georgetown in August, where for the first time, the team
completed laparoscopic surgery, on four citizens in rural Linden on the East Coast of Demerara.
President of HERO Colle Oudkirk explained that the team is choosing laparoscopy as an alternative to shorten patients’ hospital stay and standard care. “Open surgeries will now only be performed in critical cases,” he said. The organisation that was launched in December 2000 by Dr Oudkerk and Tallahassee, Florida-based Dr Wayne Sampson, conducts twice-yearly medical missions to Guyana where the Kidcare Programme has improved the lives of hun-
dreds of children, many who needed surgery of the lower extremities, such the repair as clubfeet.
Dr Oudkerk who specialises in emergency medicine at Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Centre in Brooklyn, teams up with Dr John Mitchell, Director, Trauma/Acute Care Surgery with Geisinger Community Medical Centre, in Scranton, PA, and Dr Harrison Mitchell of New York’s Columbia Hospital.
Michelle Wan of Jamaican heritage is an emergency room physician at Dekalb Medical in Lithonia, Gegoria, and also
a member of HERO Board of Directors.
“We have make progress with our operation Kidcare, a programme headed by Chief of Orthopedics, Dr Claude Scott, that will expand. Hysterectomy will be included in the 2015 mission,” added the physician who plans to also take an Oncologist to Guyana, to attend to the large number of women who have developed cervical cancer.
He added that going forward the team would expand the OBGYN and General Surgery Programme to attend to the much needed care of thousands of Guyanese.
Dr Oudkerk said that their Chinese counterparts in Guyana are on par with the work they do, including the training of doctors.
The August 2014 mission included 30 nurses, physicians, pharmacists and prehealth students who dedicated their time to serving those less fortunate in need of medical care.
The three-arm organisation that includes literacy, medical, and surgical programmes, in addition to a cancer programme - HERO/C, headed by Lorna WelshmanNeblett, holds an annual Gala and Awards Dinner and
a breakfast morning to raise much need funds to carry out its mission.
The organisation receives donations of equipment and supplies from hospitals.
HERO’s mission is to help students grow into well-rounded professionals, as it provides basic health care to Guyanese in rural and inner city areas.
The organisation also works to bring members of the community personal health education, as well as literacy advancement programmes for students, and participates in various volunteer and service opportunities in Tallahassee, Florida.
(Caribbean Life)
Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee
Public Works Minister Robeson Benn
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud
GGMC Chairman Clinton Williams
Castro urges US to lift embargo on Cuba
Cuban President Raúl Castro has hailed the mutual decision to re-establish the US-Cuba diplomatic relations, but urged Washington to lift the five-decade-long embargo against his country.
On Wednesday, the countries agreed to restore diplomatic ties that were severed more than 50 years ago, and US President Barack Obama called for an end to the economic embargo against its old Cold War enemy.
“President Obama’s decision deserves the respect and acknowledgement of our people,” Castro said in a televised address, while warning that the embargo, which he calls a “blockade”, must still be lifted.
“We have agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations, but this does not mean the principal issue has been resolved: The blockade which causes much human and economic damage to our
country should end,” he said.
He challenged Obama to modify the policy, which is rooted in US law, with executive action.
Obama said on Wednesday that the US was changing its relationship with the people of Cuba.
“We will begin to normalise relations between our two nations. Through these changes, we intend to create more opportunities for the American and Cuban people and begin a new chapter,” he added.
Al Jazeera’s Patty Culhane, reporting from Washington, said the trade embargo imposed on Cuba after ties were severed can only be lifted by Congress.
“Senior administration officials tell me they don’t think Congress is going to lift the embargo. We have seen several members of Congress come out and call the President’s moves ‘outrageous’,” she said. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Suspected Boko Haram gunmen kidnap 100 women, children in Nigeria
Suspected Boko Haram
gunmen kidnapped more than 100 women and children and killed 35 other people on Sunday during a raid on the remote northeast Nigerian village of Gumsuri, a security source and resident said on Thursday.
Although no one has claimed responsibility yet, the attack bore the hallmarks of Boko Haram, which abducted more than 200 women in April from a secondary school in Chibok, only 24 kilometres (15 miles) from this latest attack.
Its campaign for an Islamic state by Boko Haram, whose name means “Western education is sinful”, has become the gravest threat to Africa’s biggest economy and top oil producer.
Thousands of people have been killed and many hundreds abducted, raising questions about the ability of security forces to protect
civilians, especially around the north Cameroon border where the militants are well established.
Maina Chibok, who did not witness the attack but is from Gumsuri and visited family there shortly afterwards, said the insurgents came in pickup trucks and sprayed the town with bullets from AK47s and machineguns.
“They gathered the people, shot dead over 30 people and took away more than 100 women and children in two open-top trucks,” Chibok said. Burials of many of the victims had already happened, he added.
News from remote parts of Nigeria that are cut off from mobile communications sometimes takes days to emerge.
A security source confirmed that more than 100 had been abducted and said 35 people had been killed, including the district head.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
US-Cuba shift: Opponents threaten to block changes
Opponents of President Barack Obama’s new Cuba policy have threatened to block his efforts to restore diplomatic relations after 50 years of hostility.
Florida Senator Marco Rubio promised on CNN to block the nomination of any US ambassador to Cuba.
Other anti-Castro legislators suggested Congress would removing funding for any normalised ties with the country.
US-Cuban ties have been frozen since the early 1960s – a policy of isolation Obama condemned as a failure.
On Wednesday, the US President said it was time for a new approach.
As part of the deal, US contractor Alan Gross, 65, and an unnamed intelligence officer loyal to the US were released from Cuban prison in return for three Cubans held in the US.
The US will now seek to set up an embassy in Cuba,
expand US visitors to Cuba, open up banking and increase caps on how much cash Cubans can post to relatives on to the island.
But only Congress has the power to end the full trade embargo, and with many Republicans deeply opposed to such a change, correspondents say it is unlikely to happen soon.
Among those opposed to restoring diplomatic relations was Democratic Senator Robert Menendez who said he was “deeply disappointed”.
“It’s a fallacy to believe that Cuba will reform because an American President opens his hands and the Castro brothers will suddenly unclench their fists.”
Fellow Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, said he would be among those trying to pass legislation to undercut funding for policy changes, including setting up an embassy. (Excerpt
Putin seeks to ease fears over Russian economic crisis
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sought to ease fears over Russia’s economy, insisting that the dramatic fall in the rouble will stabilise.
Speaking at his end-ofyear news conference, which lasted over three hours, he blamed “outside factors” for the currency hitting an alltime low.
But he admitted Russia’s
central bank could have acted more swiftly.
Russia is on the verge of recession due to falling oil prices and sanctions over its
role in the Ukraine crisis.
However, the President denied pursuing an “aggressive” foreign policy and accused the United States and European Union of conspiring to weaken Russia.
Putin accepted Russia had failed to diversify its economy for the past two decades and relied too heavily on its oil and gas exports.
But he insisted the nation’s currency reserves were sufficient to keep the economy stable, saying the central bank should not “burn” its US$419 billion reserves.
“I don’t believe you can
call it a crisis – you can call it what you like,” he told a packed conference hall. If the economic problems persisted, he said, the Government would have to “reduce social spending and future growth”.
But he added: “Our economy will get out of this crisis. How long? Maybe two years, but after that, growth is inevitable.”
Although the rouble strengthened on Thursday morning, it has taken a battering in recent days.
The currency’s collapse came after a drastic 6.5 percentage point rise in Russian interest rates to 17 per cent.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
Cuban President Raúl Castro has hailed the mutual decision to reestablish the US-Cuba diplomatic relations, but urged Washington to lift the five-decade-long embargo against his country
Russian President Vladimir Putin
December 19, 2014
AFC’s race-baiting will kill coalition efforts – former PNC MP
Aformer People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)
Member of Parliament (MP) said the Alliance For Change (AFC) can lose big on its “Indian votes” in the 2015 General and Regional Elections if it coalesces with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
While admitting that she favours key members of the AFC such as Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan, the former MP who also served as a Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly said the AFC from the initial stage was fearful of losing its Indian votes over forming a coalition with APNU in the lead-up to the 2011 General Elections.
“We must face the fact
that racial voting is deep seated in our society and it would take generation upon generation to change that,” she posited. Because of this perceived “truth”, which is based on a historical voting trend, she said Indian supporters would not vote for the AFC if it joins with APNU, a coalition which draws most of its electoral support from African voters. “This is what AFC has always been fearful of and I don’t think it is going to work, but I am looking on.”
Leadership In addition to the issue of racial voting, the former MP said it appeared as though APNU and the AFC have already begun to experience fundamental differences with regard to the issue of leadership.
Delivering the Leaders Report at the AFC’s third Biennial Convention earlier this month, Ramjattan said his party remained open to discussions on a broad national alliance to govern the affairs of the country, but he made it clear that the AFC must lead the way. In response to Ramjattan’s statement, she said: “I don’t think that the APNU, the majority Opposition, would allow a small party like the AFC to take control, but Ramjattan made his position clear.”
According to Ramjattan, the AFC has the capacity to deliver the leadership that is required to propel Guyana forward. “Indeed, the AFC is ready to enter, if necessary, into negotiations to lead, a prodemocracy alliance with pro-
gressive forces.”
Back seat
But Ramjattan’s announcement came as a major surprise as the AFC weeks prior to its convention poured cold water on APNU’s proposal to join forces, saying that it would contest the next General Elections as an independent political party. Its General Secretary, David Patterson, said the Opposition will be more effective contesting the elections as individual entities.
Nevertheless, with this new announcement, the AFC and APNU have already begun their negotiations, which are scheduled to last six weeks, but the Leader of the Opposition, David Granger, who heads the APNU, has
made it known that his party will not take a back seat.
APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon said the issue of leadership of any possible coalition would have to be “vigorously negotiated” between the parties of the political Opposition. The party’s General Secretary said there was more to mull than just the issue of leadership.
Harmon told the <<<Guyana Times>>> that as a nation, Guyanese need to see the true representation of the proposal by the AFC. He said that its proposal represented a willingness on the part of the smaller Opposition party to work together with APNU to rid the country of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/Civic) Government. He said the most important el-
ement to be considered in all of this was the willingness of the AFC to work towards this objective. That, he stressed, was most welcome.
APNU’s Vice Chairman, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine expressed similar sentiments. He said the fact that the AFC could “concoct” such an idea was remarkable and such a move was a positive one by the party. He noted that the attempt to build a democratic coalition was nothing new for Guyana, as such was sought by the PPP back in the 1950s with the People’s National Congress (PNC). According to Roopnaraine, the details of the leadership of any such coalition have to be left for the deliberation period between the two political bodies.
6 charged, 4 found guilty of drunk driving
As the Guyana Police Force continues to intensify efforts to curb road fatalities, six more men have been charged and four of them found guilty by the courts for driving under the influence ((DUI) of alcohol, Police said on Thursday.
Only on Wednesday, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud pointed out that this new initiative adopted by the Force to publish DUI offenders would be effective since the public would know them and cause pressure to build on offenders hence they
would not repeat this illegal act.
“We need to get into the culture (of publishing offenders). We need to put pressure on our society, on ourselves (because) not only are you reckless with yourself but with the lives of other road users,” he stated.
Persaud acknowledged
that traffic was one of the areas that the Force was unable to manage this year hence resulting in the deaths of 133 persons, a 27 per cent increase from figures recorded during the same period last year. He
noted that they have found that more needs to done with regard to the education and enforcement aspects.
The acting Commissioner explained that Police have limited resources such as speed guns and breathalysers, but they will have to find means of reversing this situation, since speeding and drunk driving have been identified as the two main causes of fatal accidents.
“We plan to do some highimpact operations: bring all those equipment into one area and target heavy drivers,”
Persaud outlined. He stressed that this would be done at various times and locations where drivers tend to be driving under the influence of alcohol or speeding.
Charges
The six persons who were charged by the Police include: Parmanand Paramchane, 41, of Number 71 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, who was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on December 6, while driving motor car GKK 6710 on Dukestown Public Road, Corentyne. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. He was charged and appeared at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court on December 11, where he pleaded guilty and was fined $7500.
Additionally, Romell Mc Donald, 58, of Number 77 Housing Scheme, Corentyne, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on December 2, while driving motor car GPP 4090 on the Skeldon Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. He was
charged and appeared at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court on December 4, where he pleaded guilty and was fined $7500.
Eon Bentinck, of 41 La Grange, West Bank Demerara, was also stopped and tested with a breathalyser on December 6, while driving motor car PGG 9168 on the Ruimveldt Public Road, Georgetown. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. He was charged and appeared at the Providence Magistrate’s Court on December 10, where he pleaded guilty and was fined $7500.
Additionally, Ron Derrick, of 13 Somerset Court, Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was stopped and tested with a breathalys-
er on December 6, while driving motor car PKK 9160 on the Providence Public Road, EBD. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. He was charged and appeared on December 8, at the Providence Magistrate Court where he pleaded not guilty. The matter is continuing before the court.
Leroy Richards, of 10 Covent Garden, EBD, was also stopped and tested with a breathalyser on December 6, while driving motor car PPP 6505 on the Grove Public Road, EBD. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of consumption of alcohol. He was charged and appeared at the Providence Magistrate’s Court where he pleaded not guilty on December 10. The matter is continuing before the court.
And finally, Derick Latchman, of Parika Backdam, East Bank Essequibo, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on December 3, while driving motor car PSS 5611 on the Leonora Public Road, West Coast Demerara. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. He was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court where he pleaded guilty on December 9, and was fined $7500.
Derick Latchman
Leroy Richards
Eon Bentinck
Romell McDonald
The excitement is in the air as SIGNATURE Productions plans to close 2014 with a bang as it stages its sixth annual edition
of UNCENSORED, on Saturday, December 27 and Sunday, December 28, at the National Cultural Centre (NCC). Since its debut about five
years ago, the show has been a much-anticipated event attracting overwhelming public support. UNCENSORED is all about sending serious
The Fashion and Art Circuit took place in the beautiful city of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, bringing artists, fashion designers, and creative professionals from all over the world together to network and socialise. The energy in the place was palpable.
It was indeed a night of art and fashion. The chatter from the crowd died down, when the show started with a beautiful performance by four amazing young girls, who go by the name, Twisted Fuzion dance team.
Then the moment that all of these designers and artists had been awaiting was here – the fashion display and most could not wait to see what the Fashion and Art Circuit team had in store.
Many soft, feminine looks floated on the runway. Few of the collections were composed of bold, luxurious yet comfortable textures and fabrics. Many looks were perfect contrasts to each designer’s personality and background.
Mariska’s Designs by Sonia Noel brought a
more casual feel to the runway with fabulous pieces of everyday Floridian wear. She used all kinds of unconventional materials and vivid designs. She also had pieces for curvier women.
Curves Conquering With Confidence (CCWC) Network Founder and President Corrhin Brunot, the host of the event, noted that Noel has quickly become one of the more recognisable names in the directory of Caribbean designers.
She has been insightful enough to position herself throughout the region at all the noteworthy fashion events and intuitive enough to create a label “Mariska’s Designs” that is a unique hybrid of Guyanese craftsmanship, Caribbean ingenuity, and an all-pervasive universal style. Noel is known for her swimwear, casual, resort, semi-formal and formal garments for females, males and children.
She was described as a phenomenal woman, a mother, a mentor, a fashion designer, and a businesswoman. She is all set and ready to take the Caribbean by storm in 2015.
messages under the guise of comedy and in the process, discovering new stand-up comedians. It is an adult-oriented stand-up comedy production showcasing Guyana’s premier veteran comedians along with the rising stars.
As always, the first night of the show this year will feature a competition between the junior comedians. Approximately 13 competitors will vie for the title of Guyana’s best UNCENSORED comedian and the privilege to perform on the second night of the show. On the second night,
those labelled heavyweights will take the stage.
Performers include Henry Rodney; Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones; Leza “Radika” Singh; Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson; Odessa Primus; Kirt “Chubby” Williams; Michael Ignatius; Max Massiah; Brian Goodman; Jermaine Grimmond; Floyd Martindale; Sean Thompson; Mark Luke Edwards; Savitri Singh; Adrian and Patrick
Chanderban.
Tickets for the show cost $1000, $1500 and $2500 and are available at the National Cultural Centre, Giftland OfficeMax, Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop, Gizmos and Gadgets, Payless Variety Store, Nigel's Supermarket, and from Sir Mars. The laughter starts at 20:00h and patrons are advised that the dress code is in effect.
Designer Sonia Noel flanked by models sporting her pieces
We have heard “Nosey People” and “Bad Mind People” and we are here to tell you that “They Like Talk” will be released today on all major radio stations across the country. The song was written and performed by X2 singer Jumo “Rubber Waist” Promo and was produced by Kes. It was recorded in the Kross Kolor Studios and mixed and mastered by Burchmore Simon himself.
The song is all about people seeing another person’s success and without knowing the truth, they spread vicious rumours. Speaking with Guyana Times Entertainment via phone, the soca sensation stated that the song was one that will make listeners jump
out of their seats and boogie down.
The song, he noted, is a groovy Soca track and based on the reviews that have been pouring in, it will definitely create a storm on the airwaves. He added that almost everyone can relate to the song and how lives were changed due to negative rumours.
Meanwhile, with the February Carib Soca Monarch Competition on the horizon, the twotime winner said he hopes to regain his title. Promo, who has always been a people’s artiste, continues to release songs that are played across Guyana.
“They Like Talk” will also be available on YouTube, Twitter and Primo’s Facebook page.
While everyone is in the festive mood, Pulse Entertainment is thinking bacchanal and will officially launch its Mash Party Truck with a grand Soca party at the 704 Lounge on Saturday evening. The vibes are in the air and the mood is right as we welcome Mash 2015, one that will be transforma
Saturday evening, it will be ‘bare’ bacchanal as Pulse Entertainment commits to having one of the best party bands at the biggest Mashramani Float Parade on February 23, 2015.
The launch party will feature Trinidadian Soca Sensation Shal Marshall along with DJ X-Bass. Those who attend the event will get a sneak peek of Pulse Entertainment’s costumes that were designed by Olympia Small-Sonaram.
Tickets cost $3000, while ladies will be admitted free before 23:00h. Tickets are available at Gizmos and Gadgets, Glamour Designer Brands, 704 Lounge, and Movietown DVD Club.
On Saturday, it is just the launch of the Mash Band being celebrated, but come Mash Day, partyholics will be treated to great music by Shal Marshall, DJ X-Bass, Soca singer Olatunji and DJ Parliament all out of Trinidad and Tobago. More attractions are expected to be added. The launch party is sponsored by Faxe Beer –Beer for Real Men, Gizmos and Gadgets, Glamour Designer Brands, Real FM, and BOOM FM.
PSrincess Theatre has brought new light and hope for movie lovers. We remember the days of Astor, Liberty, Globe, Starlite Drive-In, Plaza, and other cinemas, when people flocked to see movies on the big screen. Today, everything has become technologically advanced and taking full advantage of that fact is the Princess Movie Theatre.
Since its establishment, it has upgraded to not one but three 3D theatres and has been getting the rush since. Every week, new and exciting movies are viewed by sold-out audiences and with the Christmas Season in full bloom, Princess Theatre will be much busier.
For the week ahead, the theatre has four movies that will be enjoyed by all. Screen Two will feature “Night at the Museum 3”, which will be shown at 14:00h, 16:00h, and 18:00h, and for the adult audience, the movie “Top Five” will be showed at 20:00h and 22:00h. On Screen One, “Exodus” will be shown at 13:00h, 16:00h, 19:00h and 21:30h.
All the movies are shown on a daily basis from Mondays to Thursdays. However, “The Hobbit” will be opened on Friday, December 26. Tickets cost $1500 for adults and $1000 for children.
ean Major Entertainment Group is all set to entertain its supporters with the return of the sexiest party to ever touch Guyana. The event called “Red Light District – Miss Naughty Claus Edition” will be held at Club Next, Princess Hotel and Casino on Saturday, December 20.
The party is expected to be crazy and the promoters are calling on partyholics from near and far to be present, since it is one that you don’t want to miss. More so, it will be the weekend before we
celebrate Christmas. Come out and be entertained by live cage dancers, body paint models and shot girls. Patrons can also enjoy the drink specials including buy one Eldorado 15 or 12 year old rum and get another bottle absolutely free.
Of course, steaming up the dance floor will be Trinidad and Tobago’s own DJ Red. He will be joined by DJ Smidjit, Blax Bee, and Countri Boi. Tickets to the event cost $2000 in advance but more at the door.
Tickets are available at Princess Hotel Front Desk, Princess Fun
City Family Centre Ticket Booth, Vinu’s Shoebox, and Sean Major Entertainment. For more ticketing centres info – call 647-6072.
“Red Light District” is sponsored by The Publik, Simply White Spa, and Vinu Shoe Box and is promoted by the Sean Major Entertainment.
uyanese Reggae singer Romeo Nirmal, popularly known as “Mystic”, will bring the house down on Friday, December 26 when the “Real Coolie Boy” show is hosted at Line Path Ground, Skeldon, Corentyne, Berbice.
The show is promoted by Dreamz Unlimited out of Berbice. “Mystic”, who hails from Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, is expected to perform to a sold-out crowd at
the Line Path Ground. It will be his maiden performance in the Ancient County.
The singer says he will be performing many of his old Reggae hits and of course, his current hit song. It gets better, since he will be launching his newest single.
The show will also feature a number of talents and rising stars from throughout Guyana, including artistes from Berbice
such as Saint and Slim Minus from Floodyard Records. Reigning Chutney King Pooran Seeraj, the Ishara Dance Group, and many other attractions will definitely add some flavour to the event. Tickets for the show cost $1000 and are available at Imran and Sons and Imran and Daughters General Store in Rose Hall Town and La Grill in New Amsterdam. For more information, call 604-7999.
Butcher blasts BCB election candidates
– most associations, clubs endorse Beharry for BCB Presidency
By Rajiv Bisnauth
The election for a new President of the Berbice Cricket Board on December 28 has been confirmed to be a two man race between first Vice President of the BCB Anil Beharry, and President of the Port Mourant Cricket Club (PMCC), businessman Vicram Suebarran.
However, former West Indies middle-order batsman, Basil Butcher believes both Beharry and Seubarran does not have the qualification or recognition for such a position.
Butcher made that comment on Thursday to Guyana Times Sport via telephone from the peaceful confines of his home in the mining town of Linden.
Butcher, the 1970 Wisden Cricketer-of-theYear, opined that looking at the two candidates, Beharry is the better of the two, despite been critical of both.
On the other hand, at least two of the three associations and 12 affiliated clubs with the BCB have
endorsed Beharry for BCB Presidency.
According to those in support of Beharry, Berbice is a County of cricket enthusiasts whose cricketers have distinguished themselves with excellent performances at the local, regional and international levels.
One association, who wishes not to be identified publicly, said Berbice cricket will benefit from Beharry’s talent, passion and considerable experience.
“All because of his track
record, his reputation, his character and most of all, his service to cricket as a cricketer and an administrator.
“We would expect no less from him if he were to take
over the reins and are confident that Berbice cricket will continue on the upward journey under his leadership. We place our full support behind his candidacy for the Presidency of the BCB,” the association concluded.
According to the BCB’s constitution, the three associations; West Berbice,
Berbice River and Upper Corentyne are entitled to four votes each, while the 14 clubs affiliated with the BCB are entitled to two votes each.
Those clubs entitled to voting rights are: Kidonnan, Whim, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Town Youth and Sport Club, Albion, Chesney, Rose Hall Community Centre, Young Warriors, Bermine, Police, Mental, Mount Sinai and Blairmont.
Incumbent President Keith Foster cannot seek reelection since his two years; three term period expire at the end of the year.
Mackeson “King of the Rim” set for enticing finale
The Mackeson, 3-on-3
“King of the Rim” tournament will culminate tonight at the California Square hard court from 19:00h.
Eight teams will via for the coveted title, with two
coming from Linden, one from West Dmerara and Berbice and four from Georgetown. Some of Guyana’s top players will also feature on the final days as the teams will be broke up into two groups, playing each other once.
The top team out of the group will go forward into the final while the other teams will duke it out for third place.
Jets and the Royals will represent Linden while Colts
A and B, Pacesetters A and defending champions Pitbulls will represent Georgetown, Dem Amstel will represent West Demerara ad TRS Raptors will represent East Coast on the final night of the tournament.
DDL pumps into Kennard’s Boxing Day horse race meet
Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) under its Five O brand formerly handed over its sponsorship package for the F1 and Lower race for the Kennard’s Memorial Boxing Day Horse Race Meeting, which will be held next Friday at the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club in Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne.
DDL’s sponsorship covers a substantial amount for that race meet and the winning trophy. The simple presentation ceremony was done on Thursday in Kennard’s office on Brickdam, Georgetown, where the company Five O Brands Manager, Maria Munroe, handed over the trophy and cheque to Justice Cecil Kennard.
In a brief comment, Munroe said what a pleasure it was to be associated with the Kennard Memorial Turf Club again.
“We have been supporting Kennard for the past 35 years and they have been doing some good work over those years… so definitely we would support it again next year,” Munroe indicated, adding that it is usually a lucrative gesture,” Munroe said.
She added “This year is no different as we always
have no hesitation whenever that call comes from Mr. Kennard in connection with his horse meet. It’s our way of giving back to the sporting community in Guyana.” Kennard thanked the sponsors for coming forward and said that he would love to see the working relationship between the two parties continue.
“For the past 41 years or so, we have enjoyed a good relationship with DDL through its various brands,” Kennard pointed out.
Kennard said that the weather is good and despite minor showers, the turf is not affected and remains in excellent shape for the big day. “We should have a good day of exciting races in the Corentyne,” Kennard stated. Eight races are billed for the day with the A1 and Lower race been the feature event. Registration closes on December 20, and no late entries will be accepted.
Horses can be entered through Roopnarine Matadial on 325-3192; Ivan Dipnarine on 331-0316; Cecil Kennard on 623-7609, 2254818 or 226-1399; Dennis DeRoop on 325-3301 or 6099143; and Fazil Habibula on 657-7010. (Rajiv Bisnauth)
Keith Foster
Anil Beharry
Basil Butcher
Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Five O Brands Manager Maria Munroe hands over the winning trophy for the F1 race to Justice Cecil Kennard
No damage to Roach’s ankle
Kemar Roach has sustained no major damage to his right ankle and is hopeful of bowling again in the first Test against South Africa.
He will not take the field before lunch on the second day though, which would mean he is unlikely to bowl at all during the day because of the amount of time spent off the field.
Roach had been off the field for 75 minutes on the first day after leaving midway through the third session. He heard his ankle pop with a ball to go in his 16th over and immediately asked for medical attention. He left the field with assistance and was taken for an MRI scan which revealed no ligament damage.
Although West Indies would like to see him play a further part in the first Test, with two more matches to come and minimal time in-between, media manager Philip Spooner confirmed there was “no rush” to get Roach back on SuperSport Park.
One person who is hopeful Roach will be able to take the field again is Sheldon Cottrell, who is playing in just his second Test after debuting more than a year ago in India. “I am very anxious to have him back. I wouldn’t mind it he is there in the morning,” Cottrell said. “He has so much experience and because I am inexperienced, he gives me pointers.”
Roach did not open the bowling, because West Indies preferred to go with the left-arm option of
Cottrell, but made an impact soon after he was brought on. In his third over, Roach made the first breakthrough to give West Indies their only period of control on the day. Three wickets fell without conceding a run in 15 balls, one to Cottrell, who admitted things did not go according to plan as closely as West Indies would have liked.
“My game plan was bowl a good-enough length to disturb the batsmen with the inswinger, because it has been said that South Africa is a bit iffy when coming out against a left arm pace bowler,” he said. “It was moving quite a bit. I didn’t have the control that I really wanted. There was a lot of moisture in the wicket. We were struggling to find lengths and lines.”
Although Cottrell found movement and troubled the batsmen with it, he was inconsistent in his lengths. So was Jerome Taylor, who Cottrell said was a “wonderful bowler, who could come right at any minute,” which left West Indies with only Roach to do damage.
He should have had a third wicket when a delivery in the first over after lunch shaved Hashim Amla’s off stump and shook the bail but did not dislodge it. “We saw the funny side of it. We were like ‘Oh damn.’ But that disappeared very quickly,” Cottrell said.
That half-chance was the last hope West Indies had of justifying their captain’s decision to bowl in helpful conditions. Their lack of discipline meant that even when they threatened, it was not for long enough periods to concern everyone in South Africa’s line-up. The top three were rattled but AB de Villiers and Amla were not. They drained the West Indian attack with a dominant showing, which overpowered a tiring opposition pack.
Cottrell rated their performance a five out of 10, but remained hopeful they could increase that on the second day. “The guys came up with a number of plans, it just didn’t work. Our boys really worked hard today,” he said.
“We are a bit down but we are not out, we are still in it.” (Cricinfo)
Bolt against changes to olympic athletics programme
Six-times Olympic champion Usain Bolt said on Wednesday reports suggesting the 200 meters is among five athletics events at risk of being cut from the Olympic program is “ridiculous” and must not happen.
Bolt was responding to an article from Australia’s Fairfax Media which said the event he has won at the last two Summer Olympics is one of five key disciplines at risk.
“Normally I’m not a controversial person, but I think that’s just stupid. Personally, track and field is the highlight of the Olympics every edition, that’s not even a question,” the Jamaican sprinter told Reuters.
“So when you’re going to try to take events away from the track and field event, it is just ridiculous and I don’t think the IAAF should stand for that at all.”
The International Olympic Committee voted
last week to approve a wideranging package of reforms that could radically change the face of the amateur sporting world, but it did not mention specific sports and events.
The world governing body for athletics said earlier this week that no credence should be given to “unfounded speculation” regarding possible
Australia v India, 2nd Test, Brisbane, 3rd day...
Johnson and Smith cut India to ribbons
Steven Smith and Mitchell Johnson mounted the boldest of counterattacks to pull Australia to within sight of India's first-innings tally on the third morning at the Gabba, after a pair of early wickets threatened to put the second Test in the lap of the visitors.
A century in his first Test as captain underlined Smith's quality as a leader, his sixth hundred in 13 matches since notching No. 1 against England at The Oval in August 2013 sustaining Australia's innings.
But Smith had needed help: the Australians were teetering 6 for 247 when Johnson joined his captain, but Indian attempts to get into the fast bowler's head with short balls and verbals appeared only to spur him into a starburst of strokes.
Ishant Sharma and Varun Aaron had bowled morning spells that were respectively precise and hos-
tile. Ishant bowled Mitchell Marsh with a break-back after the hamstrung allrounder shouldered arms, and Aaron pinned Brad Haddin with a bouncer that delivered a catch to short leg. Aaron's success with the short ball prompted him to step up the assault against Johnson, and he earned a warning from the umpire Ian Gould for excessive use of the bouncer. Virat Kohli also stepped in to antagonise, and these exchanges
appeared the catalyst for a spiky Australian response. Johnson prospered first with the pull shot before expanding his repertoire grandly, upper cutting over the slips then driving sweetly down the ground. Smith made slightly more sedate progress towards his hundred, but reached the mark with a nifty cut behind point and by lunch the partnership was worth 104 in 83 brazen balls - the deficit was a mere 57. (Cricinfo)
SCOREBOARD
Amir Khan: Floyd Mayweather running scared
– I’m the last man who can beat him
Amir Khan has taunted Floyd Mayweather, warning: fight me in May or lose your credibility.
changes to the athletics program at the Olympic Games.
“While the Olympic agenda 2020 recommendations were passed at last week’s session, no details or specific proposals have yet been made by the IOC as to how they will be implemented,” the International Association of Athletics Federation said in a statement. (Reuters)
Bolton’s rejuvenated welterweight has renewed his attempts to land a fight with boxing’s pound-forpound king since enhancing his credentials with a thorough dismantling of former two-weight world champion Devon Alexander in Las Vegas.
But Mayweather, who opted to fight Marcos Maidana in May rather than take on Khan, has so far refused to bite and is instead aggressively pursuing a grudge match with longtime rival Manny Pacquiao which for years seemed destined never to happen.
Mayweather even
claimed on Wednesday: “No one knows who Amir Khan is”, but Khan is adamant he is the last man standing who can give the unbeaten American a decent fight.
“Who’s he going to fight next?” Khan said on Sky Sports News HQ. “If he really wants to fight in May he has to fight someone who’s going to be decent and give him a tough fight. I think out there in the boxing world there’s only myself left.
‘Running scared’
“I’m just going to leave everything with my team, but I really want the fight and I think Floyd is running scared now. He’s looking for any excuse not to get the fight.
“I’m a bigger name than
Marcos Maidana, who he fought twice. He’s always coming up with excuses - his new excuse is that Amir’s not a big enough name - is he going to take the fight or not?
“I think we’ve got him cornered in a way because after that good performance against Devon Alexander I don’t think he has anywhere to go.” Khan’s second choice is Pacquaio - a former stablemate during his time with Freddie Roach - and he says a huge all-British fight with WBA champion Kell Brook will have to wait.
“I think I’ll let Kell build his career up a little bit more. At the moment I’m focusing on the elite fighters.”
Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 2750322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.
Eccles: two flat executive concrete house; three bedrooms upper, two bedrooms lower (separate flats). Price negotiable. Tel: 602-2135
Healthworld Holistic Centre offers clinical psychotherapy for suicidal thoughts, attempted suicides, depression, stress, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, homicidal thoughts, hallucinations, loneliness, conflicts, anger management, relationship & sexual problems, paranoia and much more. Call +592-621-0552 and make that appointment now before it’s too late. 12:00-6:00PM. Mondays-Fridays. Email: healthworldhc@gmail.com
Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/ visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 6553105. Email: balwantpersaud@ yahoo.ca
Eccles: Build your own home in a modernized, gated community. Lot size 60’x100’ $7.5M. Call: 2272913, Cell: 689-3033. Eccles: Commercial lots $14M. Call: 227-2913, Cell: 689-3033
one two-storeyed concrete building with four apartments at Fort Ordinance Canje. Size: 50 x 30 feet. Contact Indera Gupta at Telephone: 627-3095 for further details.
One business/ residential transported property located at Friendship Public Road, East Bank Demerara. Property presently houses a variety store and beer garden. Price negotiable. Call 6618802 for more information.
Two storey house in good location; Lot 55 Section ‘B’ Non Pariel-First Street, ECD ($12m or best offer. Quick sale preferred. Contact 6518901.
For specialised repairs and servicing to all types of BMW vehicles, Lexus, Mercedes, Sedan etc. Diagnostic testing available. All job backed by three months warranty. Call 686-9995 for more information and location. Mobile emergency service available.
K. Lakeram, Building Contractor: carpentry, masonry, tiling, plumbing, painting, drawing of plans, etc free estimates, general home maintenance. We’re prompt & reliable. Section A Diamond, new Scheme, EBD. Phone: 216-0671, 622-0267, 692-8464. Email: klakeram.construction@gmail.com
l aND FOR Sale
32 Acres of transported land located at Lot 5 Plantation Content, Mahaicony, ECD; from the public road to sea shore. This property is ideal for residence, business, aquaculture, agriculture, etc. Price: $175,000 (USD) or best offer. For more information or to make an offer please call Pooran at 813319-4219 (Florida, USA) or email rpooran@tampabay.rr.com
JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA NOAH; TOYOTA VOXY; TOYOTA IST (NEW SHAPE); SUZUKI SWIFT; DAIHATSU MOVE (660CC); MERCEDES BENZ C200 KOMPRESSOR; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; TOYOTA HIACE MINIBUS RZ; PITBULL-STYLE FREEZER VAN; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED 4WD EXTRACAB PICK-UP; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, 3L SOLID DEFFERNTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 4 TONS FREEZER; 3 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; NISSAN ATLAS 2 TONS OPEN TRAY TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICES AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST
One PPP series Mazda Axela in excellent condition and one white 2007 unregistered BMW, Price negotiable. Call 679-5842.
We buy all low income and high income land in Eccles, Providence, Herstelling & Parfaite Harmony. Call 652-2018, 218-5591
Williams, Djokovic named ITF world champions
Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams have been named 2014 World Champions by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
The annual award takes in performances on the regular Tour and grand slams. Wimbledon champion Djokovic takes the men’s prize for the fourth time having won seven titles this season and the year-end top ranking for the third time in four years. Williams wins the award for the fifth time in a career which has brought her 18 grand slam singles titles -- the most recent
at this year’s U.S. Open.
“I’m so honored to be named ITF World Champion for the fifth time. This was a year of challenges and triumphs, so to win another Grand Slam and retain my year-end No. 1 ranking is an accomplishment I’m very proud of,” she said.
“I’m grateful to have the support of the tennis community in every way possible. I can’t wait for 2015.”
Americans Bob and Mike Bryan were named ITF men’s doubles champions while Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci of Italy won the women’s honor. (Reuters)
South Africa declares...
Dutch spiritual healing in removing evil spirit; bad luck; evil sickness; spells; reuniting lovers and prosperity to business etc, Call 612-6417, 220-0708.
Cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá protection against evil. Get help to overcome problems with love, relationships, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money. Call 592-690-1824 from 10:0016:00h Email:anew-life@live.com
HEPHZIBAH MINISTRIES. 24hrs miracle line 322-5081/337-4510/3374259/337-4021/337-3070/3375103 For healing, deliverance, financial difficulties, marriage issues. Call now. Jesus cares.
Suriname’s Astrology, Palmist and Hindustani Spiritual Healer, solve all purpose problems, 100% confidential guaranteed. Phone: 679-4672
It would be understandable if South Africa approached the second day with an air of supreme confidence: 340 runs already banked for the loss of three wickets and hundreds for AB de Villiers and Amla long since achieved. On a beautiful, sun-cream morning, they could anticipate some contented batting. The advent of the second new ball did not alter that.
There was a moment of optimism for West Indies when they dismissed de Villiers, but it quickly departed. South Africa steadily built a 109-run morning. Almost carelessly, it seemed, they lost de Villiers in the ninth over of the session. The delivery from Benn was lavishly flighted and scientists might have concluded that it turned and bounced just a tad, but there was nothing malevolent in the delivery. De Villiers, seeking to carve it through the off side, could only pick out Jermaine Blackwood at backward point.
The fourth-wicket stand, extended by another 25, was worth 308 in 84 overs. West Indies had picked up a wicket but there was no sense that it might change the nature of the day. Four frontline bowlers and Roach, arguably the best of them,
already off the field injured with the recurrence of an ankle injury. Taylor bowled within himself, anticipating a long day. Even allowing for West Indies’ decline, they had rarely seemed as impotent as this.
Even on such an unflustered morning there had to be nerves. How could there not be with a debutant arriving at the crease? A debutant, too, who had been next in since the 16th over of the first morning. Van Zyl, a lefthander from Cape Cobras, was used to waiting - his Test debut had come relatively late at 27 - and his early reconnaissance was wary.
Van Zyl’s Test debut should have come to grief on 2, edgily made from 25 balls,
when he turned Benn to the more backward of two short legs but Kraigg Braithwaite could not hold on to a chance which left the bat at pace. The let-off unshackled his mind. The opportunity for van Zyl to prosper could not have been more obvious if it had been adorned with bells and whistles.
Alongside him, there was continuity. Amla was marking his first home Test as captain in unerring fashion. He had 141 at start of play; another 37 by lunch, a lowkey contribution to the morning. Discussions were heard about how long South Africa would bat before the declaration. This was pop gun Test cricket.
Amla was dropped off Taylor on 180 by Blackwood, leaping at midwicket and, on 205, Sheldon Cottreell jagged one back over the top of his off stump, a sight that stirred the interest of South Africa’s attack. His poise was also briefly threatened by a malfunctioning sightscreen. There were many neat moments, too, and when that double hundred came, his wristy flick off Cottrell through square leg could hardly have been seemed more matter of fact. (Cricinfo)
Dark clouds filled the sky at Centurion
Serena Williams
Novak Djokovic
Stag Super XV1 football tournament…
Clubs receive $50,000 cheques from Ansa McAL
Ansa McAL supplied all the clubs participating in the inaugural Stag Super XVI football tournament with $50,000 cheques as part of their sponsorship package.
Ansa McAL’s Public Relations Officer Darshanie Yussuf highlighted that the Berbice, East Demerara and East Bank football association made the request for the preparation fees.
“We had no hesitation in acquiescing to the request
since we understand what it takes to get one’s self in order for a high level competition. We at Ansa McAL have been partnering and sponsoring some of the associations’ tournaments over the years and we are aware of what it takes to prepare.”
Further, Yussuf noted that Ansa McAL was pleased to be associated with the development of the sport in such a unique format.
Assad Fudadin out of West Indies tour of South Africa
West Indies batsman
Assad Fudadin has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test tour of South Africa after fracturing a finger during fielding practice on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old fractured the little finger on his right hand in the warm-ups on the opening morning of the first Test in Pretoria.
Fudadin came into the squad after Darren Bravo
declined selection for personal reasons, but he will now have to be replaced by the West Indies Cricket Board.
The batsman has played in three Tests and made his debut against England at Edgbaston in June 2012.
West Indies are scheduled to play three Tests against South Africa, with the second Test starting in Port Elizabeth on Boxing Day. (Sky Sports)
The representatives of the clubs collectively thanked Yussuf and Ansa McAL for their generosity towards the development of the game.
The winner of the tournament will be receiving 1.5 million dollars while a second place prize of $500,000 is at stake. The third place finisher will collect $300,000 and fourth $100,000.
Two Berbice clubs are already in the quarterfinals in Monedderlust and
Cougars who defeated Golden Stars and Soesdyke Falcons by 2-1 and 3-0 margins respectively.
The quest for more quarter final berths will continue today when action switches to the Grove Playfield, East Bank Demerara.
Agricola Red Triangle will come up against Ann’s Grove in opening play at 18:00hrs with the main event pitting Grove Hi Tech and BV Triumph United.
Stag Super XV1 football tournament…
Intense action expected on second night
Atantalizing double header is set for the Grove Playfield this evening when the Stag Super XV1 knock-out football tournament continues on day of the tournament.
The feature game of the evening will see East Bank’s top side, Grove Hi Tech led taking on East Coast’s BV Triumph United while the opening game at 18:00h will see East Bank’s second seeded team, Agricola Red Triangle coming up against Ann’s Grove.
Grove Hi Tech will be led by Captain Domini Garnett who was the leading goal scorer of the East Bank Football Association Stag Beer sponsored first division league while his support will come from the likes of Trevor Jones, Clive Matthews Jr., Lloyd Matthews, Wayne Andries, Devon Joseph, Rondell Alleyne (goalkeeper) Dexter Archer, Denzel Crawford and Marvin Squires among others.
BV Triumph United’s will hope for victory through the likes of elder statesman and left footed Delroy Deen whose exploits are known while his back up will arrive in the form of Deshane Garnett, Shemar Fraser, Paul Kingston,
Compton Cudjoe, Jamil and Jomaul Murray, Michael Williams, Yonel Price and Jamal December.
In the opening game, neither team knows much about the other and might take each other for granted.
The more assertive of the two teams will likely move on when the dust is settled this evening. Both teams are village based and their supporters are expected to be out in numbers to support and urge them on.
Combining for Ann’s Grove will be Kevon Barry, Nickose Denny, Quincy Johnson, Antonio Jackson, Maxton Adams, Jamin Rogers, Levon Adams, Steve Francis, Gregory Doris, Dwayne Duke, Mervin Hardy and Travis Allen.
At the helm of the Agricola attack will be their leading and inspirational scorer Gordon Grant who will find able support in Kacy John, Lumumba Hinds, Travis Welch, Winston Rawlins, Daniel Angoy, Yohance Roberts, Marlon Clarke, Collis Samuels, Jermaine Frank and Devon Jeffers. Only two of the four teams on display today will be empowered to move on to the quarter finals.
Priyanna Ramdhani won six games in three different categories when the Woodpecker Products annual badminton Christmas tournament continued on Wednesday at the Queen’s College courts.
In the girl’s under-13 category Ramdhani defeated Siya Persaud 21-1, 21-1 and Sudarshani Sooknarine 21-1, 21-1 while moving up to the under-15 category to win three games.
Ramdhani defeated Abosaide Cadogan 21-8, 21-3 before trouncing Priyanka Shivnauth 21-1, 21-0. Ramdhani’s final match in the category saw her topping Siya Persud 21-3, 21-5.
In the girl’s under-19 category, Ramdhani continued her dominant ways with a 21-1, 21-1 win over Nyckelle Yearwood.
Meanwhile Abosaide Cadogan had similar success to Ramdhani, losing only once to the unbeaten Ramdhani.
Cadogan defeated Shivnauth 21-3, 21-1 in the under-13 category while topping Shivnauth and Persaud in the under-15 category.
Cadogan also won her only under-19 game against Amanda Daniels 21-5, 21-5.
Narayan Ramdhani outplayed Ronald Chang Yuen in both the under-19 and open singles catego-
ry with 21-12, 21-8 and 21-8, 21-10 wins respectively.
The Tournament continues on Saturday from 11:00h with the final matches while the presentation is set for 13:00h.
Wednesday’s full results: Under-13 Girls Singles Round Robin: Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Siya Persaud: 21-1, 21-1, Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Sudarshani
Under-19 Boys Singles Round Robin: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Ronald Chang Yuen: 21-12, 21-8, Jonathan Mangra defeated Ronald Chang Yuen: 21-10, 21-11.
Open Men Singles Round: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Ronald Chang Yuen: 21-8, 2110, Christopher Persaud defeated Avinash Odit: 21-18, 19-21, 21-14, Jonathan Mangra defeated Avinash Odit: 21-19, 16-21, 18-21.
Ansa McAL PRO, Darshanie Yussuf (centre front row) and Stag Brand Manager John Maikoo (left of Yussuf) poses with representatives of the clubs after handing over the cheques at the Number 5 ground
Assad Fudadin
Priyanna Ramdhani
thursday, december 18, 2014
Universal Solutions T20 Festival…
Berbice Titans, Universal President’s XI to clash in final
– females to feature in an exhibition game
Berbice Titans and Universal President’s XI will contest the tenth Universal Solutions T20 Festival final on Saturday.
Both teams won their semi-final matches last Sunday at the Port Mourant Community Centre when Universal President’s XI created an upset by defeating Universal Solutions Tigers while Berbice Titans defeated Universal Warriors.
Universal Solutions Tigers were dismissed for an embracing 75 in 15 overs with none of their more recognised batsmen getting into double figures.
Their bowlers were equally unproductive when they took the field. The batting order included Devon Clements and Jason Sinclair while the bowling line up featured Balchand Baldeo and Yogindra Harrinarine.
Skipper Lloydel Lewis was the chief wicket taker picking up three wickets.
Replying to the paltry 76 made by Universal Solutions Tigers, Lewis (38*) led his team to a ten wicket victory.
Support came from Brentnol Wolford (36*) as the team reached 76 without loss in 10.5 overs.
In the second match, Universal Warriors chose to bat in their match against pre-tournament favorites Berbice Titans and posted 97 all out in 20 overs with Royston Crandon hitting 24 off 30 balls.
Eon Hooper was the pick of the bowlers with 2-16 off 4 overs.
In reply the Titans reached 98-6 off 18.5 overs with Eugene La Fleur scoring an unbeaten 34. Clinton Pestano picked up 2-13 bowling for Universal Warriors.
The two losing teams will meet on Saturday at the Albion Sports Complex to contest the playoff for third place from 13:00 hours while the final will be played after.
The champion team is guaranteed $200,000, while the runner-up will pocket $100,000.
The teams placing third and fourth will not walk away empty handed as Seubarran will be rewarding them with $50,000 each for their efforts.
Meanwhile top female Berbice players will be features in a T20 game from 09:30h.
Those selected to be on the two teams are Shemaine Campbelle, Sherica Campbell, Tremayne Smartt, Shabika Gajnabi, Rushanna Lynch, Plaffiana Millington, Devonna Frank, Aleema Arokium, T’Keyah Isaacs, Nagma Budhoo, Sheneeta Grimmond, Erva Giddings, Natasha Gangoo, Jennifer Kewley, Melanie Henry, Kavita Ramsammy, Tessa Park, Steffi Rodne, Mandy Mangru, Odessa Oneil, Latoya Smith, Shirley Boyce, Akaze Thompson, Shawna Vanderstoop and Christine Quintyn. (Andrew Carmichael)
Stella Maris survive...
St Stephens came out attacking in the second half again and would blow their biggest opportunity to win the game 10 minutes into the half when Naomi Campbell missed a penalty that hit the far post.
Stella Maris’ Ludesha Reynolds would make the game saving penalty to ensure Stella Maris the victory. Reynolds would also be named as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.
In the third place playoff, Enterprise Primary School won 2-1 against West Ruimveldt Primary School on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw.
Nikita Prince opened the scoring for West Ruimveldt
in the 16th with a brilliant goal from the middle of the field while Aliyah Elaine wasted no time with a reply for Enterprise that came in the 19th minute.
The Petra Organisation thanked all their sponsors for their continued support while all the sponsors in the Ministry of Health Ministry of Education, Ansa McAL and Health 2000 pledged their support for future tournaments, branding the initiative as well as the girls play on the field as inspiring.
Stella Maris has now won both the male and female under-11 pee-wee tournament for 2014 to cap off the first double of its kind.
MVP Ludesha Reynolds makes game winning save
Berbice Titans after their win in the semifinal
Stella Maris survive to top St Stephens via penalties
By TreisTon Joseph
Stella Maris Primary School are the new champions of the Ansa McAL, Ministry of Health and Health 2000 pee-wee under-11 girls tournament when the final was held on Thursday evening at the Ministry of Education ground. Stella Maris won the tournament 3-1 on penalty kicks after a nil all draw at the end of regulation time.
The game started with both teams trying to attack as they exchanged possession a number of times during the early minutes of the game.
However, St Stephens settled into their offensive style of play and quickly had the more defensive minded Stella Maris school defending for most of the first half that ended scoreless.
South Africa declares after punishing Windes’ bowlers
– rain washes out final session
An agreeable century on Test debut for Stiaan van Zyl and an elementary double hundred for Hashim Amla extended South Africa’s punishment of a dire, injury-hit West Indies attack on the second day at Centurion. When the destruction was called off half an hour before tea, ahead of rain which washed out the rest of the day, South Africa had sated themselves at 552 for 5. West Indies have rarely looked more bereft. They are at least fulfilling their tour of South Africa, but if they are there in body, they are hardly there in spirit. A weak attack, further broken by an injury to Kemar Roach, looks as if it is already awaiting the end: hopefully the end of the Test, not the end of the series. The left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn bore the burden and resembled a man at the end of a hard shift long
before he delivered the last of his 46 overs.
Amla’s third double hundred - to add to his 311 not out against England at The Oval in 2012, and an unbeaten 253 against in Nagpur two years earlier - was a peaceable affair, so untroubled that it felt more like an simple arithmetical exercise than a notable Test innings. It was South Africa’s highest Test score against West Indies, outdoing Herschelle Gibbs’ 192 on the same ground a decade earlier, and also the highest score by a South African captain on home soil.
He fell on 208 after nearly eight hours at the crease, dragging Benn to long on where Jerome Taylor held the catch a pace in front of the rope. Amla never quite reached the pitch, perhaps deceived by Benn delivering from behind the crease, perhaps momentarily allowing himself an inexact moment
with the Test so clearly in South Africa’s grip.
Van Zyl could not have hoped for more benefaction than he gained from West Indies’ attack. He needed only 130 balls for his unbeaten 101 but, in truth, even though he is entitled to cherish a Test hundred on debut, fiercer examinations will await him.
Tension should have been palpable as he moved through the 90s, floodlights breaking through increasingly menacing dark clouds, but to suggest as much was merely to recognise Test cricket lore. His back-foot drive to the extra cover boundary off Benn to reach 99 was one of his finest strokes. The shot that brought up his 100 - a muscular-armed cut through the off side off Benn - again characterised his strongest scoring region. A limp West Indies had come to recognise his statuesque off side clubs.
