Lowenfield as several of its top leaders look on (Carl Croker photo)
Wednesday, april 8, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
wednesday, april 8, 2015 |
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, April 8, 2015 – 05:00h-06:30h Thursday, April 9, 2015 – 08:30h-10:00h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, April 8, 2015 – 06:10h-07:40h
Thursday, April 9, 2015 – 06:45h-08:15h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on:
Wednesday, April 8 – 05:00h, 09:00h and 17:00h
Thursday, April 9 – 05:00h, 10:00h and 17:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Light to heavy rain showers can be expected in the morning and into the mid afternoon, with sunshine warming up the skies in the afternoon. Partly cloudy conditions can be expected in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 5.36 metres per second.
High Tide: 06:37h and 19:04h reaching maximum heights of 2.10 metres and 2.58 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 00:13h and 12:36h reaching minimum heights of 0.61 metre and 0.50 metre respectively.
Ramotar predicts absolute victory
...presents
ethnically, religiously balanced list
Hundreds of Guyanese on Tuesday rallied with the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), as President Donald Ramotar presented the party’s List of Candidates for the May 11 elections.
In a show of solidarity, supporters of the Party moved off from its Freedom House headquarters, Robb Street en route to City Hall, with its theme song “It is time” performed by Chutney Sensation KI blaring from a sound system. In addition to the crowd who t swarmed the vicinity of Freedom House, many supporters lined the streets en route to City Hall, waving and cheering enthusiastically as they expressed their fervent support for the Party.
Upon arrival at the City Hall, the supporters maintained their energetic behaviour as they danced and chanted to the popular PPP/C jingle until the Party presented its List of Candidates to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and exited the
building.
Speaking to media operatives shortly before the formal tendering of the List, President Ramotar, with poise, proudly declared his intentions to take Guyana forward to en-
ners of Elections 2015.He said should the Party regain control of the affairs of the country, the PPP/C would be in a better position to successfully take Guyana forward. Ramotar briefly reflected on the hin -
APNU+AFC), in preventing Guyana from prospering under his Administration’s rule.
He highlighted that the combined opposition only used their one-seat majority to block developmental projects. But despite those constant challenges “unnecessarily” created by the Opposition, Ramotar took pride in making Guyana achieve significant strides towards economical and social development. Come May 11, Ramotar predicted, he will regain his power to continue to take Guyana forward.
Meanwhile, Ramotar had previously noted that the PPP/C’s List of Candidates was a truly representative one. “It will reflect the diversity of the country and is made up of persons who are aptly competent to continue to take Guyana forward,” Ramotar had said.
In a release almost immediately after the PPP/C departed City Hall, the
sure a better standard of life for all Guyanese.
Ramotar said he was convinced that the PPP/C will regain the majority of seats in Parliament after it is announced win-
drances imposed by the combined Opposition, the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (now a joint alliance –
Party said its List was concrete testimony that it was the only national political party with genuine participation by all sections of the Guyanese community.
PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, PPP/C Prime Ministerial
Candidate Elisabeth Harper, President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar in the front row of the ‘march band’ as they lead the crowd of supporters to the City Hall
The gargantuan crowd swarmed the area in front of Freedom House, Robb Street turn to pae 7
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
Aleading website on human health (www.helpguide.org) advises that the key to any healthy diet is moderation. In essence, it means eating only as much food as your body needs.
One should feel satisfied at the end of a meal, but not stuffed. Moderation is also about balance. Despite what fad diets would have us believe, we all need a balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals to sustain a healthy body. Moderation also means eating less than we do now and reducing the intake of ‘junk’ food.
While the proposal to tax junk foods has proved contentious in many countries, in 2014, a US Navajo American Indian tribe council that has seen its population devastated with diabetes rates double that of the rest of the country, as well as significant increases in hypertension, heart disease and renal failure, passed two food tax bills.
One placed a two per cent tax on junk food items (in addition to the customary five per cent sales tax) and one eliminated the sales tax on healthy foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts, etc.
In the city of Leeds in the United Kingdom, where there are reportedly at least 800 takeaways and fast food restaurants, one in five Leeds adults is classified as obese, and a third of its children overweight.
With many such eateries often the only source of food available in a community since grocery stores are absent or far away, officials are considering limiting approval of applications for more fast food restaurants and prohibiting their presence near schools.
Mexico recently passed legislation that taxes junk foods and drinks, while prohibiting them in schools or a quarter mile near schools.
One Barbadian Opposition Member of Parliament recently called for the Government to consider Mexico’s initiative and impose a tax on “sweet drinks” while restricting advertising and sales of junk foods.
However, those who feel that taxing the food we eat is not the answer argue that it will not change behaviour and may simply make the poor less able to purchase other products besides food.
Demark in 2011 had passed a so-called fat tax, only to rescind it a year later, saying it failed to change Danish eating habits.
It has been argued too that although salt and sugar are the usual though unhealthy preservatives in convenience foods, it means food can be stored and eaten when needed, unlike most fresh fruits and vegetables. This makes them more likely to be bought and consumed since it does not necessitate daily trips to a market or store for fresh foods -something that adds transportation costs to a poor family’s bill.
In addition, poverty often forces parents to buy junk food snacks and beverages because they are cheaper than healthy foods and juices. How have we reached the stage where Governments are considering laws to help us to be healthy?
To some like the Navajo, current solutions like advocating health education and exercise are not working. Once junk food is cheaply and easily available, there would be more dialysis due to kidney disease and more limb amputations due to diabetes among the Navajo.
More people are buying unhealthy food products; this becomes an unhealthy lifestyle choice, often leading to earlier death and lower quality lives because of the food choices made. Obesity and being overweight are often the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in many communities.
National health care costs are driven higher as obesity related diseases soar, and nations are spending millions of dollars on treating diseases that are preventable if we could only pay more attention to what we choose to consume.
The notion that Governments must seemingly police our lifestyle choices is unpalatable for many, but the idea of policies geared to affect our choices is aimed not at restricting freedom of choice or discriminating against any one industry; rather it is to encourage healthier choices and moderation among individuals.
Campaign heat already too much for APNU+AFC
Dear Editor, The campaign heat is already proving too much for the APNU+AFC coalition, the mask is starting to fall off the faces of these Opposition cabal and they are having nightmares and getting bassidy.
Those symptoms were clearly predictable long before the campaign had begun, and it would be wise advice that the entire top brass of APNU+AFC, not excluding David Granger, Moses Nagamootoo and Kemraj Ramjattan make more frequent medical check-ups because it has just begun, and they’ve already proven that they cannot withstand true
political heat. With no surprise these poor fellas revert to what they have been known for, cheap gutter politics. Nagamootoo time and again has shown what dirty and disrespectful character of a man he is, at this early stages of the political campaign. Nagamootoo has run out of gas and turned his mindless attention to his running opponent in the PPP/C Elisabeth Harper, a person with 40 years of unblemished record as Director General of the Foreign Service, a true patriot, and a person with a well-respected character, unlike Nagamotoo who has been
crazily hop-scathing and jumping ships from the PPP/C to AFC and now the foot stool of the PNC.
The campaign has taken such a toll on APNU+AFC that even the self-proclaimed stalwart Nagamootoo cannot remember what ethnicity he really belongs to.
Well that too comes as no surprise because everyone knows what fills the inside of his head, and for any Berbician not to recognized what ethnicity they belong to, tells me that they had to be dropped from a coconut tree somewhere in the back lands of Whim on the Correntine of Berbice.
The PPP/C is a real force to be reckoned with in the race to the May 11 polls. However it would have been nice to have a different flavour on the campaign trail coming from the Opposition APNU+AFC coalition, something that would have at least make one believe that these jokers are awaken, but that is not to be. Their captain David Granger, along with his subordinates Nagamootoo and Ramjattan, is steering them further down troubled waters where their sinking ship will never be salvaged.
Suresh Silas
When will the Opposition contribute
to Crum-Ewing fund?
Dear Editor,
On March 19, a fundraiser was launched for the children of political activist Courtney Crum-Ewing.
As of April 6 (18 days later), this “education fund” totaled a measly $1.4 million. There were very few donations made, which begs the question: Were the Opposition leaders who incited supporters to protest the tragic murder of CrumEwing in front of the AG’s chambers doing so over real consideration for his wife and children?
Or did they do so to energize a fractured political base? When will the Opposition make a meaningful contribution to the education fund setup to benefit the children of CrumEwing?
Judging from the small
list of contributors to the fund, I am convinced that this man’s tragic death was used by David Granger and Khemraj Ramjattan for political gains.
At the time, Granger was in real trouble with PNC-APNU supporters in Linden, and it appeared that he may be facing an election with his main political base divided over his leadership and the rigging of the election during the PNC-APNU convention.
The AFC was also in serious trouble (and still is) for joining forces with the PNCAPNU after lying to and betraying their supporters in Regions Five (DemeraraMahaica) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
Moses Nagamootoo will find it almost impossible to deliver on his commit-
ment to give Granger’s party 11 per cent of the Indian votes. And I firmly believe that when the evidence is finally known, the PPP/C will be vindicated of CrumEwing’s assassination, and I predict Nigel Hughes will rush to defend the criminals who killed him to prevent the Guyanese people from knowing the truth.
If all of the phony protestors that gathered outside the AG’s office in the days that followed the murder had made a smaller contribution, I’m confident the total amount collected would have been significantly more. Why haven’t we seen contributions to this noble cause from the opposition ringleaders who were quick to label the murder a “political assassination”?
Come on Granger, must
I embarrass you and the other PNC-APNU-AFC members of Parliament to demonstrate real compassion for the children of the man who carried out your dirty work alone at considerable personal sacrifice?
I expect to see the names of the Opposition members listed among the contributors. If this is done, I too will consider making a personal contribution.
After all, one cannot hold innocent children responsible for the deeds of the father. Crum-Ewing was no altar boy as the Opposition wants you to believe. The truth is, from his own entries on his Facebook page, the man was an angry racist, and I challenge Dr Asquith Rose to prove me wrong.
turn to page 5
A fisherman gearing up for a full day’s journey at sea on the Atlantic Ocean (Richard Jagdeo photo)
The economy today is much more diversified
Dear Editor,
There can be no doubt that Guyana has come a long way in terms of the creation of a modern and broad based economy.
There is no longer almost complete reliance on the traditional sectors of rice, sugar and bauxite for our foreign exchange earnings as in previous years, even though these three sectors together continue to employ a significant proportion of the labour force.
In this regard, the assurances given by President Donald Ramotar to inject significant resources to ensure the continuing viability of sugar and rice are highly commendable.
The economy is today much more diversified with gold, timber and forestry
products bringing in significant inflows of foreign exchange. The same can be said of fishing and the export of non-traditional crops to Caribbean and North American markets.
It is this growth in exports that is mainly responsible for the relative stable exchange rate of the local currency, vis a vis the United States dollar and other western currencies.
This has also impacted favourably on our growth trajectory with the country experiencing its longest period of uninterrupted growth.
Apart from a stable exchange rate the country has experienced low inflation rates of some three percent last year. In 2013, the inflation rate was a mere 0.9 per
cent which was quite a remarkable performance having regard to the volatile and depressed global economic environment.
The fact that inflation was kept within single digits for such a prolonged period speaks well of the country's economic health and the stewardship of the economy by the current PPP/C administration.
This is why it is so important that we cannot go back to the days of a stagnant economy, runaway inflation and a sinking dollar. We have made substantial progress over the years which has impacted positively on the quality of life of the Guyanese people.
Hydar Ally
Why look overseas for model open-air crematoriums?
Dear Editor
A few days ago, attention was drawn to the poor facilities available at Guyana’s open air crematoriums with particular reference to Babu Jaan.
In advocating for improvements one letter writer on April 3 wrote: “Trinidad and Mauritius cater for the needs of funeral attendees and could be role models for Guyana.”
I have also seen openair crematoriums outside of Guyana; with all due respect and a sense of nationalistic pride, I can say that the Blairmont Crematorium and Memorial Garden, situates south of the Blairmont Estate Sugar Factory, on the West Bank of the Berbice River in
Guyana, compares, if not surpasses, the best in terms of the “garden” ambience as well as the range and quality of services provided for the mourning families and the funeral attendees.
For example the two pyres are surrounded by a Viewing Pavilion comfortably seating at least 200 persons as well as many tall trees under which some attendees currently choose to stand; we will soon install benches under these trees.
Attached to the Viewing Pavilion is a Memorial Room where patrons can hang framed photos of the cremated persons as a memorial spot to which they can return occasionally, for example the
death anniversaries, Father’s and Mother’s Days, etc to light candles/agarbati and pray, sing or reminisce.
Under the Viewing Pavilion is another room that can be used as a meeting/comfort room for the family members; it can also be used for any final preparation of the corpse before the cremation.
Also under the pavilion are five flush toilets, one for VIPs, two for women, two for men plus three urinals and three Wash Basins with running water. Additionally, there is a well stocked Refreshment Centre
All the above are within a one acre plot of nicely landscaped land covered with manicured lawns, beautiful flower-
From page 4
When will the Opposition...
In a recent letter on March 27, the shameless Opposition moneyman and letter writer Rose wrote that our President should be “ashamed” for almost labelling “Crum-Ewing a criminal, and even suggested that the Opposition might have a hand in his death.” He called for a “national outrage and a stampede amoung Guyanese” to condemn the President’s statement. But provocateurs, the likes of Rose, have the freedom to distort what was said by our President and try to incite violence in Guyana while living in comfort and safety in the United States without facing a libel suit in the local courts.
What in fact President Ramotar said was that Crum-Ewing “was no threat” to the PPP/C… he was no threat to the Government… he was a nuisance value more than
anything else. He was spreading a lot of racist talk on his Facebook, and all kind of things of that nature he was doing.
They put the Guyana flag on Linden “Blackie” London coffin and now they put the flag on this man Crum-Ewing who they claimed, I don’t know the motive, but they claimed that he was assassinated… political assassination.”
Our President has nothing to be ashamed of, it is the Opposition that Rose supports that celebrates and defends criminals, drug dealers and money launderers.
“Blackie” was in fact a criminal and a notorious fugitive who was killed by members of the Joint Services on February 8, 2000 after a fierce gun battle ensued for almost 11 hours at Eccles.
At his funeral, the PNCAPNU desecrated the Guyana Flag by draping it
Those who killed students in Kenya cannot be deemed Muslims
Dear Editor,
The Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) and all humanity are horrified at the killing of 147 persons that were visited upon the students of Garissa University College Campus in Kenya.
Irrespective of nationality, religion or creed all people are citizens of the world, and deserve our care, protection and assistance to enhance their educational skills, in order that they may in the future fulfill the role in ensuring the continuity of life and service to mankind.
This dastardly act can find no support from anyone irrespective of the reasons or cause for such action. Citizens of the world should condemn in the strongest possible terms by word and action this horrendous action by a misguided minority.
The CIOG maintains
ing plants and palm trees. Currently under construction is another innovative concrete structure intended to accommodate token amounts of the ash from the pyre which patrons who wish to do so can deposit and have engraved the names and DOB/DOD of the cremated persons as a perpetual memorial spot, like the memorial Room mentioned above.
Adjacent to the Crematorium and Memorial
that those who perpetrated this act, cannot be deemed Muslims, and no longer subscribe to the teachings of Islam and the laws that govern the lives of Muslims the Holy Quran.
For those who claim they believe in the Holy Quran and Islam they must be aware of the quotation from Almighty God in the Quran which states:
“He who kills a soul unless it be (in legal punishment) for murder or for causing disorder and corruption on the earth will be as if he had killed all humankind; and he who saves a life will be as if he had saved the lives of all humankind” (The Qur’an, Al-Ma’idah, 5:32).
Anyone defying this order cannot hold steadfast to the realms of Islam.
The CIOG prays that those who perpetrated this atrocity and claim to be Muslims should be hunted down by the Kenyan author-
Garden site is an all-weather concreted Car Park big enough for at least 50 cars.
The Blairmont Crematorium and Memorial Garden is a West Berbice community project spearheaded by a committee of local residents under my leadership and legally registered with the Government as a Friendly Society (#1325) with Demerara Bank Limited as its banker.
All funding has been/is
ities, and brought to justice. To those who may in the future contemplate such action in the name of Islam,should pause and reflect on the true and rich teachings of our beloved Prophet (OWBP), and the commandments given by the Almighty to all His Prophets, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (OWBP) as it relates to the sanctity of life. The Muslim Communities of Guyana, the President and Executives of CIOG and all God fearing people join in offering our sincere condolences to the family and relatives of the deceased, and to the people and Government of Kenya. We pray that the Almighty God will grant a peaceful resting place for those who lost their lives, and patience and perseverance to their families.
CIOG
being raised through voluntary corporate and individual donations with official and public acknowledgements including on the wall of the Memorial Room. The general public is hereby invited to visit and see for themselves by contacting the on-site caretaker (telephone 652-4500) or me at nowrangp@yahoo.com (telephone 615-9802). Please do come! Nowrang Persaud
across this criminal’s coffin. The PNC-APNU-AFC is also guilty of desecrating our national flag by draping it across Crum-Ewing’s coffin, but no one ever insinuated that this man was a criminal.
He may have been a bit unstable, but there is no evidence to suggest otherwise. What I’m sure President Ramotar was referring to, was the improper usage of our national flag as defined by protocol... I hope lawmakers take note of this, and strengthen laws to protect the desecration of the Guyana Flag.
Crum-Ewing did not die as a solider fighting for his country, and so it was absolutely outrageous for the Opposition Leader, a former head of our Army, to disrespect our national pride.
Shame on you Granger!
Harry Gill
wednesday, april 8, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com
Urling joins PPP/C
…Jagdeo returns after much encouragement by party
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo has been listed among the 71 candidates of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) National Top-up List, returning to the political arena after almost four years.
Speaking to another section of the media on Tuesday, the former Head of State related that he had no intentions of being on the PPP/C’s list. He was, however, encouraged by fellow party members to become involved in the fight.
Jagdeo, who served as Guyana’s President for over a decade, became actively involved on the political stage of the ruling party just over
that he was willing to join forces with the party which strongly represents the future.
Urling, who is also Chairman of the Normalisation Committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and past President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), said that what is important now, is the fact that he is committed to working for the long term development of Guyana. His comments were made after media operatives questioned his reason for joining the political party now, while he had been previously criticising its work through his non-governmental organ.
a month ago, signaling his intention to help the PPP/C reclaim victory. His first public appearance was on March 7 last, when he blasted the Opposition at the memorial ceremony for former leader Dr Cheddi Jagan at Babu Jaan.
Meanwhile, the PPP/C has also presented a new breed of candidates on its National Top-up List. Included on the list is businessman and former president of the Blue CAPS, Clinton Urling. He told reporters, outside of City Hall,
He said the PPP/C has a vibrant economic plan for the country’s viability. Urling said he prefers to look to the future, offering the party his energy and commitment.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Blue CAPS said the revelation that its former Chairman and Founder Urling will be appearing on the PPP/C List of Candidates has received very mixed reactions. “We would like to be pellucid in our statement that all members of Blue CAPS are free to exercise their constitu-
tionally guaranteed right to join any political party or form their own party, should they desire. Blue CAPS aims to increase youth participation in decision-making and leadership, especially the political process. Therefore, we fully respect and support any member or other individual who wants to be more meaningfully involved in the political process in order to make their contribution to Guyana’s development. Blue CAPS remains politically neutral and will continue to advocate its positions regardless of the party that is victorious in the next General Elections, specifically the holding of Local Government Elections along with the many points and policy suggestions determined by its Committees. It is time we return focus to the issues and avoid mudslinging and slander.”
Another surprise candidate for the ruling party is former Miss India Guyana Roshini Boodhoo. She told Guyana Times that she accepted an invitation to liaise on with the political unit because of her cultural background.
“I accepted with a vision of seeing Guyana’s growth culturally. Thus far I have contributed to the growth of cultural activities in my community on the West Coast of Demerara. I’m very adamant about having the young people involved in cultural activities as it plays an integral role in their disciplinary measures,” Bodhoo–a radio and television broadcaster at Television Guyana and Radio Guyana Inc said. She further pointed out that Guyana remains a multi-cultured country, noting that youths are the ones who will have to continue on the same stride as their fore parents to ensure that the morals, roots and beliefs are sustained.
Other new comers on the PPP/C list are: the National Communications Network
“Political lightweights” upbeat …present lists to contest polls
By Alexis Rodney
The small parties contesting the May 11 General and Regional Elections lived up to earlier promises that they will be able to field candidates, delivering to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) their Lists of Candidates amid much pomp and ceremony.
Presenting before GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield were The United Force (TUF); the Healing the Nation Theocracy Party (THNTP); the Organisation of the Victory of the People (OPV); the United Republican Party (URP), and the Independent Party (IP) along with the major parties – the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition.
Leading the way was TUF Presidential Candidate Marissa Nadir. Speaking to
the media just after her presentation, she said her party’s List represented a broad sector of persons from different strata, including professionals and businesspersons. She confirmed that her party, which has been out of the limelight for some time now, will be contesting the polls in all 10 administrative regions of Guyana.
Following the TUF was the PPP/C, led by President Donald Ramotar. He was accompanied by Prime Ministerial Candidate
“Our (List) represents a broad sector of persons from various scales in Guyana. ... doctors and lawyers and prominent business persons as well,” Nadir declared. She said the party was very much confident of its success at the polls, noting that it has already publicised the policy it stands for. “We are looking to be the voice for those who are disgruntled with all the other political parties in Guyana,” she related.
Businessman Clinton Urling embraces President Donald Ramotar and Prime Ministerial Candidate for the PPP/C Elisabeth Harper
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo
Elisabeth Harper, PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee and outgoing Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. Ramotar, speaking with the media after his presentation, declared his confidence in success at the elections.
(NCN) Marketing Manager, Raymond Azeez; General Manager of Guyoil, Badree
Persaud; Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Chief Executive Officer, Dr
Rajendra Singh and Head of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahender Sharma.
Leader of the Organisation of the Victory (OPV) of the People, Gerald Pereira greets GECOM’S CEO Keith Lowenfield
The United Force Presidential Candidate Marissa Nadir presents her party’s list to GECOM’s CEO Keith Lowenfield
Granger omits Vanessa Kissoon from list
...fulfils Selman’s “barefoot and pregnant” prediction
Former Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) Member of Parliament, Vanessa Kissoon has been omitted from all three of the candidates’ lists for the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition, drawing condemnation in some quarters, espe-
mours about Kissoon being omitted from the lists and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) supporter Minette Bacchus wrote in a letter which appeared in the Stabroek News that the decision was unfair. Bacchus said Kissoon was a special kind of politician who did not come along often, and because of her rarity and
ing the victimisation from Granger…but unlike me, she wants to continue inside the PNC. I would like to tell her that she will be destroyed, because there is no space for her unless she wants to be a lapdog for Granger.”
Selman said, “She should reflect what happened to Faith Harding, who had been brought into the par-
keep us ‘barefoot and pregnant’.” Bacchus in her letter had said, “Unfortunately, there is a move afoot to deny Ms Kissoon the opportunity to be on the List with the aim of denying her return to Parliament.”
She related that Kissoon’s suffering began in a targeted way in February 2014 after she demanded
cially in the mining town of Linden.
Granger, who had confirmed that Kissoon was not on the lists before the coalition officially released the lists to the public, explained that there were set criteria to determine who would be on the lists. He explained that Kissoon, who had fallen out with him and the General Secretary last year, had already served two terms as a parliamentarian.
“No, she is not on the list,” he said when questioned by another media house.”Well, we have a balanced list. She served two terms...We have a list of criteria and that criteria was applied because of the work that is ahead of us,” he said.
There were early ru-
commitment to politics as a force to bring about positive change and improve the lives of those she represented, she deserved to be on the 2015 List of Representatives and return as a Member of Parliament.
A month ago when former APNU MP Africo Selman spoke at her first People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) meeting at Yarrowkabra, her home village, she predicted just this outcome given Kissoon’s estrangement from the Granger faction in the PNCR. The schoolteacher, whose role had been miniaturised in Parliament by Granger, offered other illustrations of Granger’s alleged anti-women proclivities: “Vanessa Kissoon is feel-
Ramotar predicts...
“It is representative of people from different parts of Guyana, different professions and occupations, women and gender, youth and experience, ethnicity and religion…We are proud that leaders of different professions, business, farming, education, youth leaders, women leaders, leaders within different communities, including Amerindian leaders, religious leaders have joined forces with the PPP/C, as the only party with a record for develop-
ty by Mr [Desmond] Hoyte. She was rigged out of her chance to become a leader of the PNC. Even if she would have lost, she should have been given a fair chance. She had earned that right.”
Selman condemned what she called the “sheer hypocrisy” and “window dressing” occurring with the PNCR and APNU as she called on Guyanese present at the PPP/C’s meetings to take a stance against the abuse, misuse and maltreatment of women in politics. “They are saying one thing and doing another. They are using women as a front and they are ill-treating and sidelining them behind the scenes,” she said as she shared her own experiences with the crowd. “They want to just
ment,” the statement read.
The Party also disclosed that approximately 450 candidates make up the List of Candidates of the PPP/C. The List of Candidates, the statement disclosed, comprised 52 per cent Indo-Guyanese, 23 per cent African Guyanese, 12 per cent Guyanese of Mixed Descent, 10 per cent
that Amna Ally speak to her with respect.
“The process began with Ms Kissoon being moved to the back bench in Parliament without any regard for civility in public engagement or prior notification. When Mr Granger was questioned about this decision, he said that it was nothing more than an administrative move. The situation continues to deteriorate.”
Bacchus had said that one of the excuses the party is coming up with is that persons should not serve more than two terms, “even as the leadership ignores the fact that according to this argument Amna Ally, Basil Williams, George Norton and Volda Lawrence
Amerindians, 2 per cent Portuguese and 1 per cent Chinese.
The PPP/C also underscored its commitment to gender equality, noting that its List has 35 per cent women. Further, the List includes 57 per cent Christians, 32 per cent Hindus and 11 per cent Muslims.
should not be on the List of Representatives.”
When the APNU+AFC held their first campaign rally in Linden on March 15 it had appeared that Kissoon and Sharma Solomon had resolved their differences with the leadership of the PNCR as they took to the stage with Granger and other top executives of the party at the coalition’s campaign meeting. Kissoon was given a front seat on stage and was embraced and engaged by most of the party’s members after the rally had ended. She was also chosen to give the vote of thanks.
In an invited comment to the Guyana Times on whether the wounds between the party and herself had been truly healed, Kissoon responded “my presence here tonight speaks for itself, it really speaks for itself”.
The issue of Kissoon’s and Solomon’s falling out with the hierarchy of the PNCR spilled over at the party’s Congress last year, which was mired in chaos and claims of rigging. Granger was returned to the helm of the party, but not before Solomon and Aubrey Norton had pulled out of the contest.
US plugs $61M into OAS, EAB election efforts
The United States Embassy here said it is pleased to announce financial support totalling more than US$300,000 (G$61,710,142) for the election monitoring programmes of the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Electoral Assistance Bureau (EAB). These resources will assist in their efforts to ensure fair, free, and credible elections in Guyana on May 11, a release from the embassy stated. “Both the OAS and EAB have a proven track record of successful election monitoring missions and are widely respected. The US Government is pleased to support the two organisations in bringing their credible and critical analysis to Guyana’s 2015 electoral process,” the embassy said.
Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt
According to the embassy, the United States of America continues to advocate globally for the expansion and strengthening of democratic governance. “Regular free and fair elections are critical in this regard. The Guyana Elections Commission has established a strong track record of ensuring ?free, fair, and credible ?elections for the people of Guyana, and we have full faith and confidence in its ability to do so once again in 2015. It is our hope that international and domestic observation will increase public and stakeholder confidence in the electoral process, culminating in all political parties’ acceptance of the ultimate results. The United States remains committed to engagement with all stakeholders to help ensure a free, fair, credible, and peaceful electoral process.”
Flashback! Presidential Candidate David Granger holds hands with Sharma Solomon and Vanessa Kissoon in a show of “unity” during their meeting in Linden on March 15
PPP/C supporters definitely poured much creativity into making these signs for the road march
BBCI fetes children for Easter
In what is becoming an annual tradition, the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) on Thursday feted 55 children from neighbouring villages in its “Easter Programme”.
BBCI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Omadat Samaroo, in his remarks, emphasised the significance of Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, who had sacrificed his life for the salvation of humanity.
children
BBCI Director Gillian Burton Persaud also spoke at the event, which was also attended by staff of the BBCI.
At the end of the programme, kites, snacks and sweets were distributed to all the children.
The BBCI is pleased to do its part in helping communities and being a responsible corporate citizen. The Company has
“Political lightweights”...
He touched particularly on the security sector, highlighting his Party’s fight against corruption, and the continuous strides being taken to stomp it out completely.
sponsored many events that benefited the communities on the eastern and western sides of the Bridge and across the country.
to hide, and we are taking every measure necessary to
“Since taking office we have developed tools to fight corruption. There was no system in place to fight corruption… What we are doing now is a continuation of what we started a long time ago... We are ready to deal with it, we have nothing
stomp out corruption.”
Small axe Meanwhile, the Healing the Nation Theocracy Party (HTNTP) by Ras Leon Saul followed the PPP/C. He said while the party will not be contesting the national elections, it will be focusing on Region Four for the regional
polls. “We are representing ordinary people who don’t normally get a chance to represent themselves in these types of arenas. We are supporting the coalition in the national top up, but are registering our support in the Region to establish our presence,” he said.
Asked how he feels seeing the big parties with their massive support, Saul said: “We feel like David going up against Goliath, as with its small axe cutting big tree. Five years from now it’s going to be a whole different scenario. We know change is coming.”
Asked about the arrangement with the APNU/AFC coalition, Saul said there has not been any confirmation from the coalition as yet. He, however, hopes that with the approval by the elections body that his party would be considered.
Considered the new kid on the block, the Organisation of the Victory of the People (OPV) said it was the “real PNC”, as it represented the ideals of founding leader Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. While the party will be throwing its support behind the APNU/AFC at the national level, it is seeking to draw as many supporters as possible for the regional polls.
“Sometimes you have to listen to the voice of the people. We are revolutionaries, and we make no apologies for that. You have to listen to the people and the mood on the ground is that they want the people out. And the people seem to be with APNU and AFC as mass support on the ground,” its leader, Gerald Pereira said.
In comments to the media, leader of the United Republican Party (URP), Vishnu Bandhu maintained that his party will not be coalescing with any major party. His List of Candidates included prominent business persons, doctors and lawyers.
Eyew tness
Bobbing and weaving...
D...on Nagamootoo’s identity
avid Hinds is WPA (WPAite?). That’s one of his “identities”. Just the other day he was kvetching something fierce that as one of the partners of the PNC, the WPA wasn’t being given enough attention. He sounded just like those wives in the Sultan’s harem who have to share the Big Bamboo.
Guess Hinds figured that since the NFA and GAP are “one-man” parties and WPA is a “four (old) man party, they should be getting more attention!! Poor dear!!
But he should know (he’s read “Arabian Night”, no?) with these arrangements, it’s the newest partner that grabs the most interest. For a while, that is. And Hinds should know that the latest member of the harem is the AFC - in the person of Moses Nagamootoo.
And he’s become the cynosure of Granger’s eyes. And that Nagamootoo’s certainly doing things to grab and keep Granger’s attention.
For one, unlike the WPA, Nagamootoo didn’t subsume his name inside APNU - and so hasn’t disappeared without a trace like the WPA! Like those modern brides, he insisted on hyphenating the name: APNU-AFC. You know...like Smith-Jones or such like.
And in New York, Nagamootoo didn’t simper like the WPA and gave away the store (You know what your Eyewitness means!! Wink...wink!! ). Like saying Rodney was collecting arms to give Granger and the GDF a “get out of jail card” on his assassination. Ahhh....Nagamootoo’s so feisty!!
But even with the WPA getting all the attention (Brother Roopnarine was shunted aside as the Prime Ministerial candidate for Nagamootoo), David Hinds still rose to the defence of Nagamootoo. On the issue of “identity”.
The Arizona adjunct professor opined that identity was a “complex” matter...but he was able to do a mind-meld (like Spock) to announce boldly that what Nagamootoo REALLY meant when he said “I am not an Indian”.
Even though GOPIO’d dubbed him a “Person of Indian Origin” - making it clear that they weren’t conferring “Indian” citizenship!! - Hinds insists that Nagamootoo was only making this point clear!! But who the hell muddied it for Nagamootoo to gratuitously repeat the disavowal in New York??
The 11 per cent question Hinds elided was why the heck Nagamootoo chose to deny his “Indianness” now?? But if Hinds is correct and “Brother” Nagamootoo (Isn’t it sweet how all members of the harem call each other “Brother”??) is proud to be an “Indian Guyanese”, why doesn’t he take his foot out of his mouth and say so??
After all, curious minds in Berbice, who stayed away from the wedding at Whim, want to know!!
...on List Candidate
Your Eyewitness wasn’t surprised by the choice of Harold Lutchman as the List Representative of the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition. (Eat your heart out, WPAites!! Your name’s gone fuh channa!!)
Hinds was wondering about the “ethnicity” of Mixed folks. But that’s easy...isn’t it? It’s whatever they say it is. He can ask Dr Lutchman, whose father was Bharrat Lutchman. The original spelling was “Latchman”...but what the heck!! You say “Dhall” and I say “Dholl”!!
While Lutchman analysed Burnham’s Constitution pretty good back in the day, he’s to be trusted by the PNC. When a vacancy opened up on the critical Disciplined Forces Commission back in late 2003 and a replacement that would represent the PNCs interests to the max, Robert Corbin (Remember him?? Is he a candidate??) chose Harold Lutchman.
So since he and Granger had to face off with Charles Ramson and Anil Nandlall (Ian Chang was caught in the middle) the PNC they became soulmates...if there were any doubts.
And Nagamootoo thinks his interests (12 seats?) are secure!! Ha!!
...candidates
Your Eyewitness waited up to hear who’re the APNU/ AFC candidates. But sadly Kathy Hughes played coy and said he’ll have to wait. He just want to see if there’s anything left for the old-time PNCites.
Beaming
after receiving their treats
Representative of the Healing the Nation Theocracy Party Ras Leon Saul entering the gates of City Hall on Tuesday
Leader of the Independent Party Mark Benschop and party representative Mark Todd
from page 6
Mother charged for abandoning Guyhoc children
The mother of the four children found abandoned in Guyhoc Park, Greater Georgetown, has been found and charged for neglecting her three daughters and son in a rat infested house.
Guyana Times spoke with the Director of the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA), Ann Green, on Monday where she disclosed that the mother of the children who were found in Guyhoc Park on January 6 of this year has been found
and duly arrested for what her children have had to endure on their own.
The children, aged 12, eight, four and one, were rescued by CCPA from a dilapidated house in Guyhoc Park where they had been left on their own. Neighbours had reported that the children were not left anything to eat, or with clean clothes to wear and were not attending school for weeks. According to reports, the children were found in very dirty mismatched clothes,
the smallest child wearing a soaked napkin. Neighbours also reported on the lack of electricity to the house, detailing the fact that the children (four girls and a little boy) slept alone in the dark on one bed with no nettings and presumably no sheets if most of the clothes were dirty.
The quite concerned neighbours had further reported that the children had been eating through the good graces of the Guyhoc Park community and even then sometimes they would be eating stale food that
would have been given the day before.
Green told this publication that the mother of the children was the one who heard of the situation her children were found in and where they were and came asking for them at the agency. The Police was notified and she was subsequently arrested and charged.
Nevertheless, it does appear that the mother had indeed gone into the interior to be able to work to get the money she needed and had also left one of the fathers of the children to take care
of them. Green shared that the mother insists that it was this father that left the children on their own and not her as she had no money to take care of them and thought the interior would have been beneficial to her. No one knows where that father maybe at this time.
The CCPA Director stated that the children will remain in the agency’s care. She said the mother will of course be tried as she did commit an offence by leaving the children alone without ensuring they were properly taken care of. Even so, she reiterated that it is never the agency’s job to take children away from the family they know but to rehabilitate them through counselling so they can be more knowledgeable about proper parenting and child care.
This, the Director said, is what they shall embark on with the mother. Green said only through this sort of counselling or training can the mother wish to regain the responsibility of her children. If she is unable to pass the necessary tests or screening of CCPA, then other family members will be considered.
Green said one family member has already shown interest in taking care of the children. However, they too will be required to pass the agency’s tests to be deemed eligible to take care of the children.
The children’s mother has been released on bail after pleading not guilty to the charge that was levied against her.
…or the consequences of Larwah one week after Whim marriage! Nagamootoo got belly!
Police find gun, ammo in Campbellville home
Ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Monday discovered an unlicensed firearm at a Campbellville, Georgetown home.
According to a release from the Police’s Public Relations Officer, Ivelaw Whittaker, the discovery was made around 19:15h.
The release further detailed that at the time, the Police were responding to
a report of threats. Upon their arrival at the house in Campbellville, the officers carried out a search at the house and unearthed a 9mm pistol along with five rounds of matching ammunition.
Whittaker also disclosed that a man has since been arrested and is in custody assisting with the investigation.
Director of CCPA, Ann Greene said she will need to undergo very intense parenting training to better take care of her children
The four children found abandoned in Guyhoc Park
Candidates for the National Top and Geographical Lists
51 NINVALLE STEVE PAUL ANTHONY
52 NOKTA SHYAM MAHENDRA CONSULTANT
53 PERSAUD BADRIE MANAGER
54 PERSAUD GANGA CHAIRMAN P.S.C
55 PERSAUD GILLIAN ROSEMARIE TELEPHONE OP
56 PERSAUD PARMANAND SOCIAL WORKER
57 PERSAUD ROBERT MONTGOMERY MINISTER
58 PERSAUD VINDHYA VASINI HARSHKUMARI MEDICAL DOCTOR
59 QUALANDER MOHAMED ARAFAT BUSINESSMAN
60 RAMANAH KISTANAH MANAGING DIREC.
61 RAMOTAR ALEXEI ENGINEER
62 RAMOTAR DONALD RABINDRANAUTH POLITICIAN
63 RAMSARAN BHERI SYGMOND MINISTER
64 RAMSAROOP PETER RONALD BUSINESSMAN
65 RAMSON CHARLES SHIVA ATTORNEY AT LAW
66 RICHMOND SEAN REMINGTON FORBES MANAGER
67 RODRIGUES-BIRKETT CAROLYN ALLISON FARIDA MIN OF GOVT
68 ROHEE CLEMENT JAMES MINISTER
69 ROHEE RIMA ACTIVIST
70 ROOPNARINE MAHENDRA JOURNALIST
71 SAHEED WAHEEDA ACCOUNTS CLERK
72 SAMAROO HOWARD ENGINEER
73 SAUERS RAMBARAN PAM FIONA TRNS. OPERATOR
74 SEERAJ DHARAMKUMAR SECRETARY
75 SELMAN AFRICO ARCHIBALD RESEARCH OFF
76 SHADICK BIBI SAFORA ATTORNEY AT LAW
77 SHARIFF OMAR CLERK
78 SHARMA MAHENDER ENGINEER
79 SHARMA VISHALYA MEDICAL DOCTOR
80 SINGH ASHNI KUMAR MIN OF GOVERN
81 SINGH GOVIND REG DEV OFFICER
82 SINGH RAJENDRA EXECUTIVE OFF.
83 SINGH-ANTHONY SHANTI MEDICAL DOCTOR
84 SMITH TANDIKA SIMONE DOCTOR
85 STOLL DON BERNADETTE AMERINIDIAN ACTIVIST
86 SUKHAI PAULINE ROSE ANN MINISTER
87 TEIXEIRA GAIL POLITICIAN
88 THOMAS MAE TOUSSAINT JR ACCOUNTS CLERK
URLING CLINTON WRLWICK BUSINESSMAN
PATRICIA TECHNICIAN
MAHADEO VISHWA DEVA BUDHRAM DOCTOR
REGION 7 7
SKEETE EDWARD SYLVESTER BUSINESSMAN
SEERAM ELVIS ALFRED ACTIVIST
WESTFORD JENNIFER
ANN MINISTER
WILLIAMS LEE GENDRE HAKKIM ENV HEALTH ASST
REGION 8 8
JOSEPH CAJETAN DENTIST
SUKHAI PAULINE ROSE ANN MINISTER
BALKARAN SHERRY ANN HOUSEWIFE
REGION 9 9
ALLICOCK BRYAN COM.DEV.OFFICER
RODRIGUES-BIRKETT
ALLISON FARIDA MIN OF GOVT
CHARLIE ALISTER SATURNIUS ACTIVIST
REGION 10 10
RICKETT MELISSA RENAUTA DOCTOR
EDGHILL JUAN ANTHONY MIN OF RELIGION
HARRIS GREGORY GERMANE DOCTOR
FORSYTHE ALBERT ANDREW PROPERTY MANAGE
PPP/C Nomination Day march
A section of the PPP/C procession as they head into City Hall on Tuesday
PPP/C’s Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates along with the Party’s Executive Members leading the procession
PPP/C’s Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar addressing the crowd
Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper addressing the crowd
PPP/C supporters as they amass at City Hall
PPP/C’s Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar interacting with a party supporter as the procession marched along Regent Street
APNU+AFC List of Candidates
REGION 1 REGIONAL CANDIDATES
ADDRESS OCCUPATION
Abraham VanessaKumaka Moruca Farmer
Abrams Joycelene Fitzburg Main Road Port Kaituma Welding
Allen Richard Version238 Fitzburg Port KaitumaBusinessman
Allen Sylvia Christine Citrus Grove Port KaitumaMiner
Apple Arnold Kumaka Moruca Farmer
Benjamin Jason Camp Ground Hole Matthews Ridge Geologist
Bowen Donna AnnMabaruma TownshipBusiness Woman
Campbell Ron LorrenCompound Mabaruma Flight Attendant
Farnum Tracy AnnBroomes Estate Housewife
Forde Pamela AnnFitzburg Port KaitumaTeacher
Fraser Keisha NeandraHosororo Hill Region 1 Scrutineer
Harris WenonaWaramuri Mission MorukaHouse Wife
Harris VivianaKumaka Morcua Housewife
Hernandes DavidAruau River Aruau Hosororo Hill Barima Waini Teacher
Hope Michael Stretch Hosororo Koberimo Bridge Self Employed
Jeffery Salome McDoom Railline Port KaitumaCommunity Worker
McIntyre Lorraine Arakaka Compound Businesswoman
Naraine Lakshmi Compound Port KaitumaMining
Smith Marlyn TheresaMabaruma TownshipHousewife
Wilburg Peter Joel Nedd Yakarinta Region 1 Miner
Williams Rayad Wayne Heaven Hill Matthews Ridge Driver-Mechanic
Williams Rennita KoKo Santa Rosa Village Morcua Scrutineer
Williams Sharlene Four Miles Port KaitumaNurse
Wilson GodfreyKwebanna Village MorucaLogger
Wilson Lucy Kumaka Moruca Teacher
REGION 2 REGIONAL CANDIDATES
FULL NAME
(SURINAME FIRST) ADDRESS OCCUPATION
Bacchus Racheal Naomi Middle Walk Henritta E.C Self Employed
Williams Mariska Magdalena 39 Middle Street Pouderoyen WBD Teacher
APNU/AFC makes it festive …as leaders present List of Candidates
By Vahnu Manikchand
The environs of City Hall was on Tuesday transformed into a party-like atmosphere as the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition brought its supporters to rally behind the group during the presentation of its List of Candidates to contest the upcoming elections.
Moving off from the Square of the Revolution, thousands of supporters accompanied the alliance executives in a procession along Brickdam, Georgetown en route to City Hall. During the march, a human barricade was formed around the party’s leaders and other executive members as they, along with the supporters, danced all the way to City Hall. The supporters were chanting slogans such as “It is time for change”, “It is time for Granger and Moses” and “PPP must go” among a host of others. The procession became louder as they passed by the Home Affairs Ministry, shouting cohesively “time for Rohee (Home Affairs Minister) to go”.
In the meantime, other APNU/AFC supporters around the City Hall area joined in the procession
while others stopped along the way to cheer on the massive crowd. The coalition’s Presidential Candidate Leader, David Granger, was ecstatic about all the support the party has been gaining. He noted that the coalition started its groundwork since in November 2011; hence, the support seen on Nomination Day.
“I’ve been in the Rupununi, I’ve been in Essequibo, in the Rivers, I’ve been in Linden and there is a countrywide movement in favour of the coalition. Now
what you see here today is a manifestation of the public’s will. This is happening all over the place. People in Essequibo never saw such a massive rally as we had last week, so this is nothing strange and you will see more of it,” he remarked.
Before heading up the rickety stairs of City Hall, where Dr Harold Lutchman presented the APNU/AFC List of Candidates, Granger said that he was confident that the List will be a winning one. He added that it will help the APNU/AFC
to take back Guyana from the clutches of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
Maintaining balance
According to Granger, the coalition has maintained balance in its List in order to truly represent the voting population in the country. Some of the areas that are top priority for the APNU/AFC coalition, he said, include alleviating poverty, reforming the education sector, providing job opportunities and most im-
Jean La Rose, Broomes tie knot with APNU/AFC coalition
Amerindian Rights Activist, Jean La Rose has been appointed Deputy Representative of the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition, effectively joining the political arena for the first time.
In an interview with Guyana Times, La Rose
disclosed that she only recently made a decision to accept the position after an invitation was extended to her by the coalition. La Rose took the opportunity to dispel accusations that she has always been an active participant in the political arena and has taken her work one step further.
The 2002 Goldman Environmental Prize Winner said her work has always focused on protecting the rights of the Indigenous population. Hence, it is the expectation that once the APNU+AFC coalition gets into Government following the May 11 General and Regional Elections, key issues that have not been addressed by the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration will be given the attention they duly deserve. She explained that it is important for Indigenous People and Guyanese as a whole to play a more active role in the decision making process, es-
pecially when decisions are being made on issues that can either positively or negatively affect their lives. She said too that transparency and matters surrounding land rights are also core issues that have been placed on the table and would hopefully be addressed under a new government.
In addition to La Rose, Social Activist and President of the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO)
Simona Broomes has also joined the APNU+AFC coalition, being listed on the party’s List of Candidates.
Broomes was contacted on Tuesday, however, she was not available for a comment.
Nevertheless, unlike La Rose, Broomes, who came to prominence due to active role in rescuing victims of Trafficking In Person (TIP), has a background in politics, having served on the youth arm of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) in her early years.
In June 2013, US Secretary of State John Kerry recognised Broomes as one of the 2013 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report Heroes. At the time, the US stated that Broomes had demonstrated extraordinary bravery and leadership in raising awareness of human trafficking in Guyana. As a miner, Broomes also represents the rights and concerns of women in the mining industry.
portantly uprooting corruption.
“These are issues which the PPP/C cannot answer, so from a political point of view, we are well ahead and from an organisational mobilisational point of view, you see what is happening today (pointing to the massive crowd of APNU/AFC supporters)”.
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has traditionally been able to put on a show on Nomination Day- given its strong constituency in Georgetown. Granger added that the APNU/AFC coalition’s manifesto was expected to be out in the next 10 days, noting that the parties have combined some of their vision from the last elections into the plan of action.
No divorce
On the other hand, Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo pointed out that the AFC marriage to APNU will not see a divorce at any time in the future.
“This is a political movement; this is a movement of the future and for the future. This movement is now energised by a new generation of young people. It is unstoppable and unbeatable!” he pointed out.
Nagamootoo highlighted
that the tumultuous crowd that came out to show their support to the coalition was evidence that the time for change was here. He noted that the APNU/AFC coalition will be a government for Guyanese that is honest, that will work for its people and develop the country to benefit its people.
“I’m wearing by Guyana hat today; I’ve always played for Guyana! I batted for Guyana, I think very well. I bowled for Guyana very well and soon I’ll be called upon to give additional service as a servant of the people,” he outlined.
Meanwhile, there was chaos upon arriving at the City Hall after all the supporters tried to get into City Hall.
The coalition’s executives had to force their way into the compound as the supporters came face to face with the Police officers at the gate.
There was a confrontation between the Police and some of the supporters who were evidently upset that they were not allowed entry. Nevertheless, the supporters waited outside the compound until Granger and Nagamootoo emerged from the building. They then continued the procession to Parade Ground where another grand rally was held.
Sophia lad represents Guyana at Quranic competition in Kuwait
A22-year-old young man of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, has represented Guyana at a prestigious international competition.
Brother Melanik Simeon James, who has memorised the Quran, represented Guyana at the sixth International Quranic Competition for memorisation, recitation and interpretation of the Holy Quran during the period April 1-8 in Kuwait.
This competition was hosted by His Royal Highness, The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah and the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs of Kuwait.
Brother James was selected and recommended by the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, a release from the Organisation said, to represent Guyana at this competition.
A section of the massive APNU/AFC procession outside of City Hall on Tuesday
Brother Melanik Simeon James at the venue in Kuwait
APNU+AFC coalition Deputy Representative Jean La Rose
GWMO President Simona Broomes
wednesday, april 8, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com
More scenes from Nomination Day in and around City Hall
Leader of the National Independence Party (NIP), Attorney Saphier Hussain after handing over his List of Candidates
Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield checking the List of Candidates presented by the Organisation of the Victory of the People (OVP), Party Leader Gerald Pereira
The United Republican Party (URP) Leader Vishnu Bandu and his supporters on their way into City Hall on Tuesday
Dr Harold Lutchman handing over the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) List of Candidates in the presence of the coalition’s Leaders and other Executive Members
Leaders and Executive Members of the APNU/AFC coalition as they made their way to City Hall on Nomination Day
A section of the crowd of APNU/AFC supporters marching along Brickdam on their way to City Hall
These children are enjoying the ride as they join the APNU/AFC procession on Nomination Day
The gathering of APNU/AFC supporters outside of City Hall on Tuesday
wednesdAY, April 8, 2015 |
APNU+AFC List...
From page 14
Pinder Hazel 45 William Street Campbellville GTBusiness Woman
Ramascindo Joan Ann 33 Northon St Bagotstown Teacher
Roberts Lloyd Kenneth 37- 2nd Republican Mocha Arcadia E.B.D Contractor
Sarabo Halley
Tabitha 3382 Caneview Avenue South Ruimveldt Park Georgetown Lecturer
Thomas ShebaLot 1 Thorne’s Drive Durban Backlands Self Employed
Williams Jewel3562 Postal Housing Scheme North R/Veldt Cashier
Williams Marlon 11 Thorn Drive – Durban Backlands Businessman
REGION 5 REGIONA CANDIDATES
FULL NAME (SURINAME FIRST) ADDRESS OCCUPATION
Abel Culbern Vincent21 Airy Hall Mahaicony E.C.DHealth Worker
Abrams Roxanne Sharon 5 ½ Market St Zeskinderen Mahaicony E.C.D Business Woman
Anthony Herman 518 Ithaca West Bank BerbiceSelf Employed
Edwin Lester KearyKaibarupai North PakaraimasTeacher
Gafoor Mohamed111 Miles Mahdia - PotaroMiner
Jules DeborahTumatumari Village - PotaroHousewife
Junor Oswald Timothy 111 Miles Republic Avenue Mahdia Businessman
Kemfune Peberty Paramakato North Farmer
King John Roth Monkey Mountain North Pakaraimas Farmer
Lewis AbdiasKanapang North PakaraimasCom. Health. Worker
Marcello JuneParamakatoi Village Pharmacist
Marco James Campbelltown Mahdia 111 Miles Potaro River Farmer
Mercier Hannah Margaret El- Paso Tumatumarie Lower Potaro River Housewife
Sandwell Luelyn Diolanda Paramakatoi North Caterer
Stanislaus Marcello Monkey Mountain North Pakaraimas Farmer
Thomas ClarissaParamakatoi Housewife
Thomas EstherParamakatoi Village Farmer
Thomas Eunice Claudia 111 Miles Potaro Road MahdiaAccounts Clerk
Thomas NoelParamakatoi Village Farmer
Wilkie Prince111 Miles Mahdia Potaro Carpenter
Williams IsaacMicobie Village Farmer
Xavier Francis RegisKopinang North PakaraimasFarmer REGION 9 REGIONAL CANDIDATES
wednesday, april 8, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
Miners pummel GGMC’s “Inception Report”
… urge Govt to release millions of acres held in the “closed areas”
The Guyana Gold and Diamond Mining Association (GGDMA) has objected to any attempt to reintroduce “landlordism” in the mining sector and also urged Government to release the millions of acres of mineral-rich lands held in closed area.
The GGDMA comments come in wake of press reports, which it said has been an orchestrated attempt to resurrect a conversation about landlordism in the mining sector, specifically with reference to the local medium-scale operators who have been in the industry for more than 30 years. “This sudden, renewed interest on an already settled matter stems from a recently published report (Guyana Geology and Mines Commission Management and Systems Review Inception Report) authored by G W Walrond, L J L Heesterman and J Goolsarran. In light of this inception report, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miner’s Association (GGDMA) would like to put on record, once again, its position on the issue of “landlordism.”
The GGDMA contends that there is enough land held in the closed area system by the GGMC that all can mine and with the recent abandonment of several new claims, even more land is available to be issued. “The issue of landlordism therefore rests with the holders of the land – the State. We agree legitimate miners need land and will not allow the Government to di-
vide the little that we have while hoarding the lion’s share of Guyana’s mineral wealth.” The Association is demanding that an immediate consideration and release of some of the millions acres of land being held by the GGMC.
According to GGDMA, since its position paper was submitted in 2010 over a million acres of land has been added to the closed area committee (approximately 1000 claims were abandoned or given back each month for one reason or another). The Association noted that a preliminary investigation would have shown an average of 1000 medium-scale licences were relinquished within the last year. It said as of March 31 this year, thousands of claims have become invalid due to lack of payment, and while the GGMC has granted an extension until April 30, it is doubtful that most will be renewed, effectively making even more lands available. “The question therefore of mineral lands not being available is moot. The question therefore is why this proposal of landlordism? It is most obvious that certain individuals want the Government to breech their contractual agreement with licensees by taking away lands from legitimate holders and giving it to others. It is the opinion of the GGDMA that a more pertinent recommendation should look into a capping, not of land being used for mining and economic development but rather to place a cap on the amount of land that can be
held within the closed area mechanism.”
Allocation of land
Meanwhile, the GGDMA said there is also repeated reference to the “allocation” of land, for the record the GGDMA would like to clarify that lands for mining are not “allocated” and there are only four known legal methods of getting mining lands, these are locating and applying for a claim; via lottery – this is restricted and only small miners are allowed to participate; by way of public auction – this mechanism has yielded the GGMC in excess of $455 million in auction fees for 2014 alone. This excludes the rental fees that must be paid annually and via the free market system of sale and transfer by which one can buy and sell property acquired.
Aman was remanded to prison by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday on charges of unlawfully escaping Police custody.
Quacy Glasglow, 29, of 687 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charges which read that on February 27 he unlawfully escaped Police custody while being transported to court.
Speaking in his defence, Glasglow claimed that the facts surrounding the allegation are incorrect. The defendant said that on the day in question he had just returned home from work when a Police vehi-
cle pulled into his yard and an officer bearing a gun exited. He said the officer cocked his gun and he ran away in fear. He pleaded with the Magistrate to be lenient and requested bail of a reasonable amount.
The prosecution refuted this claim stating that the man was in custody on the day in question facing three charges of robbery under arms. It was further explained that at the time of the incident, the defendant was being transported to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to these charges when he escaped. Bail was objected to and the man was remanded to prison until April 13.
Additionally, the body said that outside of these methods no other system exists for acquiring of mining lands despite what the consultants would have one believe. “The subtle suggestion that lands be seized and reallocated outside of a free market system one would hope is not the Government’s intention. The Association is greatly surprised that these brilliant and qualified individuals did not apparently do basic research on this issue for they would have noted that the issue was already dealt with extensively, by way of the established special land use committee (SLUC), established by former President Jagdeo in 2009. This committee was established as a result of the Guyana/Norway agreement for forest use (under the LCDS) to ensure that there is effective monitoring of forest use.”
The miners also said that it begs the question of whether the terms of reference for these hired consultants prevents them from accessing or considering previous studies and reports in the sector. “A simple library check would have revealed that a consultant was also employed by the GGMC to examine the ISO compliance and certification, that there was also a report done by Jones and John, which if implemented, could have
prevented the staff strike. Additionally there are the copious notes and decisions from the monthly board meeting of the GGMC, these deal with several of the issues omitted from consideration.”
Published figures
The GGDMA said too that it notes with alarm that the proposal by authors of the current “inception report” and the fact that figures relating to the majority of the land, where no mining is done (only prospecting and reconnaissance), those figures have not been published. Only the figures for the land used by the medium and small scale miners have been published. The GGDMA said Dr Grantly Walrond, who served on both sides, both as Commissioner of Mines and as one of the large scale licensees of some of the best prospecting licences in Guyana, among which are the well-known Quartzstone (auctioned for $28 million) and Sardina Hill (initially auctioned for $80 million), is quite aware that the existing mining act and regulation does cater for those who occupy land and are not beneficially using it. “For example at the level of claims, anyone not working their claim for a period of two years can be challenged and may lose it. In terms of mediumscale licences, it is only issued initially for a period of three years and can be renewed twice for one year each after which the mining laws and regulations come into effect. Persons will then have to either apply for a new licence or said licence is cancelled, a fact Mr Waldron is well aware of since it has had a significant impact on properties once held under his name.”
The GGDMA said it appreciates the fact that the Chairman of the GGMC did hold a meeting with stakeholders and they were briefed on the initial report submitted. Additionally the Chairman has stated that before a final report the consultants must consult with the stakeholders. The Association welcomes and appreciates this consideration, since it is better late than never. “What is the definition of landlordism? No miner owns the property for which a licence was granted, the owners remain the state, for which an annual rental fee is charged. One suspects that this is the reason that mines officers are employed by the state to ensure that there is compliance with the laws, regulations and contacts. One must remember that the state is the guardian of all minerals in Guyana, miners are simply the tenants and both must operate within the law.
Woman on bail for obstructing justice
Awoman appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore on Tuesday to face charges of obstructing justice.
Carol Delson, a vendor, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on March 31, in the vicinity of King Street, Georgetown, she unlawfully intervened in a Police matter which resulted in the obstruction of justice. According to the prosecution, on the day in question at around 19:30h, Constable Hill was patrolling the said area when she witnessed a man littering. She ap-
proached the man and was about to detain him when Delson stepped between Constable Hill and the individual and said “well you can do yuh thing and guh along yuh way” which aided the man in making his escape. In response to the allegation, Delson claimed that she was not aware of such an incident and that the accusations are all fabricated. Bail was set at a sum of $5000 and the matter will return to court on April 24 where witnesses will be summoned.
Vagrant sentenced to supervised community service for illegal dumping of garbage
Avagrant today appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts facing charges of unlawfully depositing waste.
Naitram Sookdeo, age 30, pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge which read that on April 1 he unlawfully deposited a large quantity of plastic bottles and plastic bags in the vicinity of Corn Hill Street, Georgetown. The man claimed that he has been homeless for many years and is in the habit of assisting various persons in cleaning up their compounds and pleaded for mercy from the court.
The prosecution stated that the man had ap-
peared in court facing similar charges before. Magistrate Moore sentenced the man to serve supervised community service. He will return to court on July 13 to confirm whether he served his sentence.
Alleged thief of GFS fire hose gets $50,000 bail
A44-year-old man accused of stealing a fire hose, property of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), was released on $50,000 bail on Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The supposed thief, Ivelaw
Anderson stood in Court Five accused of stealing a 75foot long fire hose, valued $75,000 on March 23 from the Campbellville Fire Station. However, the defendant told the court that he was not guilty of the offence.
He stated that he makes an honest living as a taxi driver and lives in 30 Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara.
Nevertheless, a case is being made against the defendant. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Stephen Telford
told the court that a trial will be ready once the Police have wrapped up their investigations as one statement is still needed.
Magistrate Fabayo Azore placed the defendant on the $50,000 bail.
Dr Grantly Walrond
Man who escaped Police custody remanded
Diplomatic corps hails Nomination Day
…GECOM says it is pleased
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), as well as members of the diplomatic community, has expressed pleasure over the holding of Nomination Day 2015, on Tuesday at City Hall, Georgetown.
Members of the diplomatic community including United States Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt; Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, Nisha KurbanBaboe; United Nations Resident Coordinator Khadija Musa and Minister at the Embassy of Argentina, Gonzalo Torres Caironi, all registered their satisfaction over the manner in which the event was conducted.
They noted that given the presence of the diplomatic corps and the media fraternity, it would signal that GECOM was indeed serious about transparency and accountability.
Speaking to the Guyana Times, the US Chargé d’Affaires related that overall he was pleased with the efforts taken by GECOM to ensure that the process was conducted in an organised, transparent and incident-free manner. “From my perspective, I think that this has been a well-organ-
GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally
ised process. I think it has been a transparent process. I think it has been a credible process and I am quite confident that when Nomination Day concludes, everyone will be satisfied with the process,” Hunt stated.
The Minister at the Embassy of Argentina in Guyana told this publication that the methods of transparency employed by GECOM in the process, were indeed surprising to him, but nevertheless, he was happy that the country has an elections commission which was doing everything possible to ensure that the credibility of the process was not questioned. “Well, it is different in Argentina, but here in Guyana, you have a
very transparent process. It exceeds my expectations. I think this is more transparent than Argentina…,” the diplomat expressed.
The UN Resident Coordinator stated that she has taken note of the peaceful and transparent manner in which the event was conducted and was optimistic that such would prevail throughout the election process. “I have no reason not to believe that it is transparent. I mean we can see the people come in, we can see what is going on, and so I have no reason to question the transparency…I think it is being held in good spirits. People are really involved
and really care about deciding their future. And I hope that everything from here on will be as happy and peaceful as it is. I hope that this feeling of participation and involvement by all the parties no matter whom, peace is the key to democracy. It is a beautiful process,” Musa told the Guyana Times
The Surinamese Ambassador to Guyana also praised the process, while Canadian High Commission representative Robert Hart expressed that he too was pleased with the way in which the event was executed by the Elections Commission.
Dismembered body: 23-year-old caretaker charged with murder of market vendor
Kevin Ramsawack, 23, who was arrested for the murder of Samantha BenjaminMcEwan, 40, whose dismembered body was found at the Annandale-Buxton Seawall on March 26, was on Tuesday remanded to the Camp Street Prison.
Ramsawack, who was unrepresented, appeared before Magistrate Zameena Ali at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday afternoon after a series of mix-ups and appearances at the Cove and John and the Vigilance Magistrate’s Courts.
The young man, who hails from 7 Adelphi Village, East Berbice, and was previously charged for trafficking in narcotics, seemed unaffected as the indictable charge was read to him by the Magistrate. According to the facts presented, Ramsawack, along with several others, on March 25, 2015 at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, murdered Benjamin-McEwan before dumping her body at the Annandale-Buxton foreshore.
State Prosecutor Hattie Anthony objected to bail being granted, citing the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the matter was still under investigation by Police.
Upon hearing that he was being remanded to the Camp Street Prison until May 4, Ramsawack pleaded with Magistrate Ali to send him instead to the Berbice prisons since he had no relative in Georgetown to take care of him. However, the Magistrate told the accused that she did not have any power to make such a decision.
Meanwhile, Crime Chief Leslie James has disclosed that Police have been able to arrest several other persons, with at least four being considered for charges. These charges, he said, will be laid shortly.
Police sources said that the labourer confessed to killing Benjamin, for whose house he was the caretaker while she was overseas. He
reportedly told the Police that two persons helped him murder Benjamin. It is alleged that the labourer killed Benjamin in the process of trying to rob her and he dismembered the body in order to make it difficult to identify her.
Benjamin was a United States citizen and proprietor of a boutique in the Vendor’s Mall on Water Street. Her estranged husband positively identified her body.
The body was found at the Annandale foreshore on the morning of March 26 .The head, legs and arms were later found at the foreshore after the water receded about 12:10h the same day. It was not until April 1 that Benjamin- McEwan was positively identified.
The diplomats also applauded the security measures which were implemented by the Elections Commission in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force and the City Constabulary.
They noted that the measures put in place were more than adequate and at no time did they feel threatened or in danger.
British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn was notably absent from the proceedings, owing to concerns over the state of City Hall, this publication was told, given statements made by Fire Chief Marlon Gentle last week that the building was a hazard.
Job well done
Meanwhile, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally told the Guyana Times at City Hall at the end of the Nomination Day proceedings, that he was pleased with the way in which the proceedings were conducted.
According to him, it was an incident- and accidentfree event and he was extremely thankful to the political parties for ensuring
that this was possible. “It lacked in evanescence relatively yester year; we have well made up for it… it was so much more positive in terms of the programming, the way it ran. I was worried about the changes in the gates being used with the possibility of the parties meeting, but that didn’t happen, they managed it perfectly,” Dr Surujbally stated.
Observer Missions
Meanwhile, Organisation of American States (OAS) Representative Jean Ricot Dormeus, while expressing his pleasure over the way Nomination Day 2015 was conducted, related that the Organisation was in the process of dispatching a team to Guyana to get a feel of what the situation and atmosphere were like before a final decision is taken on whether they will be observing the actual process. This team is expected to arrive in Guyana next week.
Dr Surujbally related that the elections body was yet to receive any formal word from any of the observer missions on whether they would be here to oversee the electoral process on May 11.
Legal Affairs Ministry makes bids against corruption with New Judicial Act – new technologies to reduce backlogs
Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, with his team of legal officials has produced several strategies geared towards revolutionising Guyana’s judicial system. One of the most groundbreaking is the New Judicial Act which makes a firm stand against corruption by enabling citizens with the tools of redress against corrupt officials.
Guyana’s judicial system has been making slow strides towards being recognised as a modern system of justice. However, the Legal Affairs Ministry has made plans to fast track this process to ensure the people get the justice they need and at the time they need it.
According to a release sent by the Legal Affairs Minister, the New Judicial Act “will provide (the) citizenry with an unprecedented repertoire of legal remedies which they can seek against officials of the State, officials of Government, and indeed every public officer or organ when there is an actual, threatened or perceived violation of the Constitution, misbehaviour, abuse of authority, or wrongful or unreasonable exercise of power.”
The Minister stated that this innovative move will pave the way for persons of the citizenry to get the justice they need in such situations. This act can prove as effective as the Home
Affairs Ministry ‘I Paid A Bribe’ campaign to stamp out corruption, where persons can expect justice by seeking the available legal remedies the new act will allow to do so.
Also, in a bid to strengthen the institutional capacity of Guyana’s court system, the Legal Affairs Ministry has made plans to modernise the courts of the country. According to Minister Nandlall, in the release Guyana is well on its way to becoming on “par with other jurisdictions in the Caribbean and elsewhere.”
This, he explained, will become a reality when the new civil procedure rules are brought into force to make civil litigation up to date. Also, the Minister mentioned plans in place to add several needed resources to strengthen the institutional capacity and capability of the judicial system at every level.
He said that once his Ministry has been able to partner with the judicial system then the courts should expect “greater speed”, thus addressing the backlog of cases that has come to plague the courts.
Lawyers have spoken at length at some point or the other about the lengthy time a matter takes to come to conclusion. Attorney Ronald Burch Smith had commented at the steady note-taking that is required of the Magistrates
at the Magistrate’s Courts in Guyana. He said this takes enormous time away from other things and also focus away from the case.
With the changes the Legal Affairs Ministry have in mind; Minister Nandlall stated that the “delivery of decisions” can be expected to be given in a timely manner. This he said is what a “just, democratic (society, where) the rule of law reigns supreme” means.
The release continued that speed to the judicial system will also be gained by targeting the backlog of civil and criminal cases that are pending in the system.
To facilitate this, the judiciary has committed to the commissioning of a study by experts to examine the real reasons for the sloth in the judiciary and to generate recommendations designed to rectify the identified deficiencies.
To continue on this thread, the Ministry plans to enhance the human resource base of the justice system by appointing more Judges, Magistrates and other personnel to facilitate administration and other technological needs of the courts. The release stated that the Ministry has already increased the statutory complement of Judges in the High Court from 12 to 20, laying the foundation for more appointments to be made with every convenient speed.
UN Resident Coordinator Khadija Musa
US Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt
The accused, Kevin Ramsawack, leaving the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday
Cook completes England century in St Kitts warmup, match drawn
Alastair Cook hit his first century in England colours since November 2013 on day two of their warm-up match against a St Kitts & Nevis Invitational XI.
The England captain, unbeaten on 95 overnight, reached 101 not out off 198 balls before retiring.
Ian Bell also retired with 59 to his name and England declared on 379-6 at tea, in reply to St Kitts' 59 all out.
Cook, 30, has scored an England-record 25 Test tons but has not reached three figures in his last 31 Test innings.
His last century for England in any match was 154 (retired out) against Australia A in Hobart on 6 November, 2013.
This is the first of a pair of two-day warm-up games before the first Test against West Indies starts in Antigua on 13 April.
Cook, who was dropped from the one-day squad on the eve of the World Cup, is looking to reassert himself as batsman and captain before England attempt to win back the Ashes in July and August. (BBC Sport)
SCOREBOARD
St Kitts Invitational XI
1st innings
SP Peters b Anderson 10
SM Jeffers c Ballance b Stokes 11
R Powell c Cook b Stokes 6
A Saunders c †Buttler b Jordan 9
SSW Liburd c Cook b Stokes 0
JDC Taylor* c Tredwell b Jordan 0
RJ Peters† c †Buttler b Broad 22
JS Louis c Root b Broad 0
D Hobson not out 1
QH Boatswain lbw b Rashid 0
S Berridge lbw b Tredwell 0
Extras: 0
Total: (all out; 26.3 overs) 59
Did not bat: EA Berridge, L Clarke, JN Hamilton
Fall of wickets: 1-18, 2-27, 3-28, 4-32, 5-36, 6-43, 7-53, 8-58, 9-58, 10-59.
England Bowling: JM Anderson
5-2-8-1, SCJ Broad 7-3-16-2, BA Stokes 6-4-10-3, CJ Jordan
5-0-19-2, AU Rashid 3-2-5-1, JC Tredwell 0.3-0-1-1.
England XI 1st innings
AN Cook* retired out 101
IJL Trott c Powell b Liburd 72
GS Ballance c Liburd
b EA Berridge 16
IR Bell retired out 59
JE Root lbw b Clarke 64
BA Stokes c SP Peters b Taylor 41
JC Buttler† not out 18
Extras: (b 2, lb 3, w 1, nb 2) 8
Total: (6 wickets dec) 379
Did not bat: AU Rashid, CJ Jordan, SCJ Broad, JC Tredwell, JM Anderson, MA Wood, LE Plunkett
Fall of wickets 1-158, 2-188, 3-202, 4-320, 5-320, 6-379.
St Kitts Invitational XI Bowling: QH Boatswain 21-4-68-0, S
Berridge 10-2-31-0, JS Louis 16-3-40-0, SP Peters 12-1-470, JDC Taylor 12.2-337-1, EA
Berridge 22-2-82-1, SSW Liburd 10-1-35-1, SM Jeffers 5-112-0, L Clarke 7-122-1.
St Kitts Invitational XI 2nd innings
SP Peters lbw b Plunkett 7
SM Jeffers b Wood 5
R Powell c Root b Tredwell 5
D Hobson run out (Rashid) 0
A Saunders not out 20
RJ Peters† c Jordan b Tredwell 4
JS Louis b Tredwell 0
L Clarke c Tredwell b Rashid 17 JDC Taylor* not out 13
Extras: (lb 3, nb 2) 5
Total: (7 wickets; 35 overs) 76
Did not bat: QH Boatswain, S Berridge, SSW Liburd, EA Berridge, JN Hamilton
Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-20, 3-20, 4-20, 5-24, 6-24, 7-55. England Bowling: MA Wood 6-3-8-1, LE Plunkett 8-312-1, JC Tredwell 14-4-353, AU Rashid 7-3-18-1.
Murray looking for answers against Djokovic
Andy Murray says he is going to analyse why he has struggled against Novak Djokovic following his latest loss to the Serb in the Miami Open final.
World number one Djokovic has an 18-8 record against the 27-year-old Scot, and has won the last seven meetings, including the Australian Open final.
“There have been some tough matches - ones where my game has been there, but not [for] long enough to get a win,” he told BBC Radio 5 live.
“I need to look at why that is.”
Murray was beaten 7-6 (7-3) 4-6 6-0 in hot and humid conditions as Djokovic collected his fifth Miami title.
The Scot added: “At the Australian Open it was mental, but today it was physical. In the third set I had nothing in my legs.”
Murray also lost to the 27-year-old in the Indian Wells final two weeks ago, but said his performance on Sunday was an improvement.
“This match was completely different regarding the level I played,” he added.
“I felt I pushed Novak
Andy Murray
a lot more than a couple of weeks ago. I haven’t managed to quite get a win yet. I’m sure people will make up their own minds why that is.”
Asked whether the consecutive losses to Djokovic weighed on his mind, Murray said: “Last year I wasn’t where I wanted to be, so it’s this year’s three losses which are the ones I need to look at.
“Novak went through a period when he never won
China’s 110m hurdle champion, Lui Xiang retires
China’s Olympic gold medal-winning hurdler Liu Xiang announced his retirement on Tuesday, ending a run in the sport marked by records and frustrated by successive latecareer injuries.
Liu, 31, became an icon in China after he won the country’s first Olympic men’s track and field gold medal in the 110 metres hurdles in Athens in 2004. He also won a world championship in 2007 and held the world record in 2006 with a time of 12.88 seconds.
“I’m retiring. I want to start a new journey,” Liu said in a message posted to his microblog, blaming injury for his decision. “Though I still have hot blood pumping through my heart, my leg has time and again told me no.”
One of China’s most popular athletes, his gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics brought him fame and fortune rivalled only by basketball player Yao Ming but also made his life more like that of a rock star and placed a huge burden of expectation on him.
Liu’s ambitions were
checked when, despite being favourite to win his pet event in front of home fans at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he was forced to pull out with an Achilles injury in his firstround heat.
In a country where sport and politics are tightly interwoven and elite athletes are handpicked from a young age to be nurtured by the state, his withdrawal was met with tears, anger and accusations that the athlete had let the nation down.
At the 2012 Olympics in
London, Liu was disappointed again by injury, crashing out of competition after stumbling on the first hurdle and ending his hopes of regaining the Olympic title.
Liu’s retirement makes him the latest world class Chinese athlete to sign off from competition in recent years, after the country’s first grand slam tennis champion Li Na retired in September and former NBA basketball centre Yao Ming walked away from the sport in 2011.
Blatter calls for tougher punishments for racism
Fifa president Sepp Blatter has called for tougher punishment for teams and associations found guilty of racism.
The 79-year-old Swiss feels monetary sanctions are increasingly ineffective.
“We have to use our rules to suspend teams, to take away their points or even to relegate them if racism continues,” he said.
Blatter, who is bidding to be re-elected in May, voiced his views at the Confederation of African Football congress in Cairo on Tuesday.
He is expected to get extensive support for his candidacy from the continent’s 54 countries.
And Blatter reminded African countries of extensive financial support to the continent’s football associations from world football’s governing body as he opened the congress.
He said Fifa had spent
$700 million (£470 million) on various programmes across Africa.
“We should maybe spend more to prepare a better future for the children,” he added, mirroring the promises of his three rivals in the Fifa election for more financial assistance for member countries.
Blatter was met with a warm ovation from the
African delegates in contrast to having to sit through stinging criticism when he attended the Uefa congress in Vienna last month.
Tuesday’s Caf congress was also attended by Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan, Dutch Football Association President Michael van Praag and former Portugal international Luis Figo, who are all standing against Blatter, but they were not permitted to address the assembly.
Caf president Issa Hayatou, who last year pledged his members’ support to Blatter’s bid for another term in office, repeated his call for Africa to back the incumbent.
“He has been a faithful partner and in Africa we acknowledge our friends and offer them that they deserve,” added Hayatou. (BBC Sport)
Phelps back after ban
against [world number five] Rafael Nadal in a final, but then won six or seven times in row.
“[World number two] Roger Federer went through a period of not having won against Rafa on clay.”
Murray, who will get married to Kim Sears in Dunblane on Saturday, has returned to third in the world rankings after reaching the semi-finals in Miami and final in Indian Wells. (BBC Sport)
Michael Phelps is to return to competition after his sixmonth competitive ban for drink-driving ends.
Phelps, 29, was stopped by police after being caught travelling at 84mph (135km/h) in a 45mph zone in Baltimore, Maryland, last September.
The most decorated Olympian in history will compete in Mesa, Arizona from 15 to 18 April.
He tweeted: “My sus-
pension is finally up! Time to get back in the pool and race again! Looking forward to #mesa!!”
Phelps had previously been charged with driving under the influence in Maryland in 2004.
Following the latest incident, he pleaded guilty to driving while impaired in exchange for 18 months’ probation as well as receiving a one-year suspended prison term.
The 18-time Olympic
gold medallist had also been banned from taking part in this summer’s World Championships in Russia. But in March, USA Swimming director Chuck Wielgus told ESPN that there may be a “pathway” for Phelps to take part.
Having initially retired after the 2012 Olympics, Phelps changed his mind and had been preparing for the 2016 Games in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. (BBC Sport)
Lui Xiang
Sepp Blatter
YELLOW PAGES
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Competition...
Raj Singh Insurance on board ahead of today’s bowl-off
Raj Singh Insurance Brokers is on board with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) for the 2015 Under-19 InterCounty Three-Day competition, which will bowl off today. The insurance company has partnered with the GCB over the years for various competitions and is proud to be associated with the Under-19 age group this year.
This year’s Under-19 Three-Day and 50-over competitions will see a selected Guyana Under-17 squad competing as the fourth team. This move is to prepare the players for the regional Under-17 competition. The GCB believes that giving the younger age group squad the opportunity to compete in the Under-19 competition will boost their mental strength and give them a lot of confidence.
The first round of the Three-Day contest is from April 8 to 10, with Berbice and the Guyana Under-17s in action at the Wales Community Centre Ground, and Demerara and Essequibo at the Everest Cricket Club Ground.
Ground. Round three is from April 16 to 18, with Guyana Under-17s taking on Demerara at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, and Essequibo taking on Berbice at the Enmore Community Centre Ground.
Andrews; Ritesh Omrao (wicketkeeper); Samuel Kistasammy; Brandon Persaud; Kassim Khan; Daniel Lewis; Joel Seetaram; Ameer Khan; Omar Weatherspoon; Grisean Grant; Parmanand Ramdhan; Clifton Lindie; and Zachary Persaud. The Manager is Julian
Cambridge and the Coach is Adrian Amsterdam.
Also, during the competition, former West Indies player Alvin Kallicharran would visit the various venues to assist the coaches with the players. Kallicharran is in Guyana to work mainly with the Under-15 and the Under-17 teams and will travel around the country to conduct special clinics at various locations with the main objective being to motivate and galvanise the youths towards the game of cricket.
Below are the four teams that will contest the Three-Day Competition.
Steve Deonarine; Ashmead Nedd; Joshua Jones; Sylus Tyndall; Asif Ally; Sagar Hatheramani; Romain Muniram; and Tameshwar Motieram. The Manager is Nazeer Mohammed and the Coach is Garvin Nedd. Essequibo: Travis Drakes (Captain); Nathan Persaud; Parmesh Parsotam (Vice Captain); Jadewnel Hartman; Neiland Cadogan; Jonathan Fernandes; Keanu Harry; Denzil Harry; Akinie Adams; Sachin Persaud; Looknauth Khinkoo; Mahendra Mahase; Satesh Latchana; and David Williams. The Manager is Harvey Gobin and the Coach is Vibert Johnson. GCB U-19 Inter-County Three-Day
The second round is from April 12 to 14, with Demerara and Berbice clashing at the Georgetown Cricket Club Ground, and Essequibo and Guyana Under-17s meeting at the Demerara Cricket Club
Berbice: Balchand Baldeo (Captain); Leon
Demerara: Travis Persaud (Captain); Ronaldo Renee; Malcolm Hubbard; Akshaya Persaud; Sherfane Rutherford; Tevin Imlack; Carlton Jacques; Gavin Moriah (Vice Captain); Ershad Alli; Vivian Albert; Daniel Basdeo; Tariq Dharamlall; Mark Hamilton; and Chetnarine Pooran. The Manager is Latchman Yadram and the Coach is Trevon Garraway.
The Guyana Under-17 squad:
Floyd Mayweather may fight in a US$25,000 mouthguard
Floyd Mayweather could wear a $25,000 (£16,800) mouthguard stuffed with $100 notes for his world welterweight fight with Manny Pacquiao.
The made-to-order mouthguards are also said to contain gold and diamonds.
“My career’s gone on 19 years and I’ve been able to preserve my smile,” he told TMZ website.
The 38-year-old, nicknamed ‘Money’, is renowned for his ostentatious behaviour and stands to earn £122 million from the eagerly- awaited bout on 2 May.
Alonso
MHowever the amount Mayweather has paid for his mouthguards is less than the sum Britain’s Amir Khan spent on his shorts for last December’s fight against Devon Alexander. The 28-year-old from Bolton spent between £20,000 and £30,000 on the garment, which had 24-carat gold thread woven through the waistband. Khan, who won the fight, donated the shorts to help rebuild the Peshawar army school where 141 children and staff were killed by the Taliban. (BBC Sport)
happy with McLaren progress
cLaren driver Fernando Alonso says he is happy with the team’s progress after his difficult start to the campaign.
The Spaniard blamed a “steering problem” for the pre-season crash that led to him missing the first race of the calendar in Australia.
Alonso, 33, retired from the subsequent Malaysian
GP but says he is looking forward to Sunday’s race in China.
“That sort of progress really gives the whole team belief and confidence in the path we’re taking,” said Alonso.
“The steps we took between Australia and Malaysia were extremely impressive.”
British driver Jenson Button also retired in
Sepang after finishing 11th in Australia but shares his team-mate’s positivity.
Button, 35, said: “There is definitely progress being made. I hope we can build upon our pace and performance in Malaysia.”
McLaren racing director Eric Boullier warned that the team’s improvements might not be evident in Shanghai or in Bahrain on 19 April.
He said: “We are fully aware that the next two races probably won’t show quite the same rate of improvement as we witnessed at Sepang.
“That’s a natural consequence of the fact that the performance gains we’re finding aren’t linear in fashionsome will be for performance, some for efficiency, and others for reliability.”
CAR RenTAlS
Floyd Mayweather jr
Ronaldo Ali Mohamed (Captain); Raymond Perez; Joshua Persaud; Adrian Sukwah (Vice Captain); Ramnarine Chatura; Bhaskar Yadram; Kevin Sinclair; Richie Looknauth; Timothy McAlmont;
Balchand Baldeo
Travis Persaud
Ronaldo Ali Mohamed
Star Party Rentals on board with Busta Soft Shoe tourney
Star Party Rentals has joined forces with the Petra Organisation to host the Busta Soft Shoe Football Tournament slated to kick off on Thursday at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground.
Josiah-tanner wins skidaway island marathon
Euleen Josiah-Tanner is continuing her winning ways with yet another win on Sunday at the Skidaway Island Marathon in USA.
With a total of 165 participants, Josiah-Tanner was the first athlete to cross the finish line in three hours, eight minutes and 55 seconds. Josh Merry finished second in 3:22:15s while Alan Fischer was third in 3:24:34s.
Josiah-Tanner was excited about the win in unfavourable conditions, “despite strong winds and stomach cramps from mile 10 to the finish, I was able to finish strong through the grace of God.
“My goals were to run a fast marathon and win… I accomplished one goal, which was winning the marathon and I just want to say thanks to all my supporters,” Josiah-Tanner stated. The win has qualified
At a simple handing over ceremony on Tuesday, the popular rental service committed to providing lighting as well as rails and seats for the Tournament when needed.
Petra Director Troy Mendonca thanked the proprietor of Star Party Rentals, Lennox Cush for his support and noted the importance of the sponsorship.
“What they are providing is a key component to the success of the Tournament and we are grateful for it at this critical juncture,” Mendonca stated.
The Soft Shoe Tournament will see a number of community teams playing for a top prize of $600,000. (Treiston Joseph)
Juban Crawford wins Easter 40-Miler in Berbice
Juban Crawford with a superb last-minute sprint won the Flying Ace Cycle Club (FACC) Easter 40-mile cycle race in Berbice on Sunday.
Crawford from the Trojan Cycle Club (TCC) out-sprinted his clubmates Andrew “Padlock” Green and Brian Harris to take the event, which saw them taking an early lead.
The trio exchanged the lead as they kept the mo-
mentum up and shared the six sprint-point prizes.
They waited until the final 300 metres of the race before they put their individual preferences first.
Both Green and Harris were racing for the first time this year and could not outsprint the more seasoned Crawford.
The race started outside Benjamin’s Sports Store at Fyrish, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne)
and proceeded along the Corentyne Highway to the turnaround point at Number 43 Village before returning to the point of origin. The event was organised by FACC Coach and Treasurer Randolph Roberts and sponsored by a number of businesses and individuals, including main sponsor Hand-In-Hand Insurance Company and the Benjamin Sports Store. (Andrew Carmichael)
Masters 2015: Tiger Woods worked from ‘sun up to sun down’
Former world number one Tiger Woods says he has worked “his ass off” to get himself ready for this year’s Masters.
The 39-year-old is bidding for his 15th major at Augusta, two months after taking an indefinite break from golf.
Asked how he prepared for his comeback at the Masters, Woods said: “I worked my ass off. That’s the easiest way to kind of
describe it. I worked hard.”
Woods will play in the Masters Par 3 Contest on Wednesday with his two children Sam and Charlie as caddies.
He has generally avoided the relaxed eve-of-tournament contest, the winner of which has famously never gone on to win the Masters that same week.
Woods is now ranked 111 in the world yet is adamant he is focused on win-
ning the Masters for a fifth time.
“People would never understand how much work I put into it to come back and do this again, it was sun up to sun down,” he said.
“Competing is still the same. I’m trying to beat everybody out there. That hasn’t changed.
“I want another green jacket. I’ve got four Green Jackets, I want five.” (BBC Sport)
A Star Party Rentals representative hands over the symbolic sponsorship cheque to Petra Director Troy Mendonca in the presence of Star Party Rentals’ Kesheke Washington
Josiah-Tanner for the highly popular Boston Marathon in 2016. (Treiston Joseph)
Euleen Josiah-Tanner
Some of the action during the race
GFC crowned Massy U-15 champions
Georgetown Football Club (GFC) defeated Renaissance on penalty kicks to be crowned champions of the inaugural Massy United Insurance Under-15 football league last weekend.
The two teams played to a one-all stalemate at the
ing regulation time were Kellon Blue for the GFC and Shamar Bobb for Renaissance.
Several individual awards were given out, including trophies for the Most Valuable Player, Best Defender, and Highest Goal Scorer.
These players were identified by their coaches as being the best team person.
After the game, which was played at the Tucville Ground, GFC Coach David Headley said the win was part of a resurgence of football at the youth level at the North Road-based
end of regulation time after which the GFC prevailed on penalties 3-1 to lift the trophy.
The goal scorers dur-
Gift vouchers to the value of $5000 were also given to four players from each of the respective teams that played on the final day.
Club. He said the Club was determined to develop its grassroots programme and the victory was a shot in the arm in this regard.
Bolt ready for World Championships titles defence
Multiple Olympic champion Usain Bolt has made “significant strides” as he bids to defend his world titles this season, and is unconcerned about the challenge of sprinter Justin Gatlin.
American Gatlin dominated last year’s Diamond League, running 9.77 seconds and 19.68 secs in the 100m and 200m.
Coach Glen Mills said Bolt had stepped up his preparations since running 46.37 seconds over 400m in
Kingston in March.
“Usain’s made significant strides since the last time you saw him,” he said. Gatlin, 33, won 100m Olympic gold in 2004 and World Championship gold in 2005.
“We take all competitors with a level of seriousness,” added Mills. “But the truth of the matter is Usain at his best doesn’t have much to worry about.”
Bolt, 28, ran only three races last year. He is next due to run in a 100m race at
an athletics meet in Rio on 19 April.
“I want to run really fast this season so I’m working on it,” he said.
“I’m happy with where I’m at. I’m doing a lot of work leading up to this first run in Brazil [in April] - that’s the focus and that’s what we’re working towards.”
Bolt will bid for a third 100m gold and a fourth 200m gold in succession at August’s World Championships in Beijing. (BBC Sport)
He also lauded Fruta Conquerors for investing in a tournament for youth players in Georgetown.
Meanwhile, Fruta Conquerors Football Club President Wayne Forde said the tournament lived up to expectations, as the aim was to discover new talent in the city.
Prior to the start of the
final, members of the two teams were greeted by Dr Karen Pilgrim, a member of the Guyana Football Federation’s Normalisation Committee. Dr Pilgrim and Vibert Austin of Massy United Insurance were on hand to assist in the distribution of prizes.
“The Fruta Conquerors Executive Committee
would like to thank the main sponsor of the league – Massy United Insurance; the Guyana Football Federation; the Georgetown Football Association; and Mr Milton Brandford, who has promised to donate 12 balls to each of the participating teams,” the Club said in a statement.
The skipper of the GFC receives the winner’s trophy
Member of the GFF Normalisation Committee, Dr Karen Pilgrim, being introduced to the teams
Usain Bolt during a training session
GFC crowned Massy U-15 champions
Young Chanderpaul fit after fractured thumb
Senior opener Tagnarine Chanderpaul has recovered fully from a thumb injury sustained recently.
Chanderpaul fractured his left thumb during a domestic game between hosts Unity Sport Club and Tuschen in February.
The former West Indies Under-19 opener was sidelined for almost four weeks.
Tagenarine, like his father, is said to be a patient batsman, hard to dislodge and capable of spending a lot of time at the crease, but was overlooked for the recently-concluded West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League Four-Day Tournament.
The 18-year-old has shown plenty of promise since making his First-Class debut in 2013, but his career statistics remain below par for an opening batsman.
The young Chanderpaul has compiled 371 runs in nine matches at an average of just over 20. He has demonstrated his tendency to make good starts, but failed to capitalise on them.
Thompson cramps up in Carifta 100m final
Guyana’s lone athlete at the recently-concluded Carifta Games, Brenessa Thompson was unable to finish the final of the girls’ Under-20 100 metres on Saturday evening in St Kitts and Nevis. Thompson qualified for the final of the event by placing third in heat two
with a time of 11.81s finishing behind eventual winner Natalliah Whyte of Jamaica, who clocked 11.55s to win the heat.
It was confirmed by her father, Brennon Thompson, that the reason for her not finishing the final was an injury she sustained in pulling a muscle. It was unclear
which muscle the US-based sprinter had pulled. Thompson became the only athlete to represent Guyana, as the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) was unable to secure flights for its remaining 11 athletes as well as four officials from Guyana. (Treiston Joseph)
Tagenarine Chanderpaul has recovered fully from a thumb injury
Brenessa Thompson
The GFC lads basking in the glory of their success
