Commonwealth observers urge responsible response to elections results
CGX remains optimistic of oil find here
PPP/C to engage int’l observers ahead of E-Day Gender Commission urges women candidates to lead by example
friday, may 8, 2015 |
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic from Friday, May 8 – 05:00h-06:30h and Saturday, May 9 – 08:30h-10:00h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, May 8 – 06:40h-08:10h and Saturday, May 9 – 07:30h-09:00h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on: Friday, May 8 – 06:00h and 16:00h Saturday, May 9 – 06:00h and 17:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day with partly cloudy conditions in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres per second.
High Tide: 07:01h and 19:35h reaching maximum heights of 2.65 metres and 2.48 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 00:35h and 13:05h reaching minimum heights of 0.70 metre and 0.57 metre respectively.
Oil, gas found at Exxon well – commercial
quantity being assessed
By Alexis Rodney
nited Statesbased oil company
ExxonMobil has found itself one step closer to discovering oil in its Stabroek off-shore block, as it has encountered Hydrocarbons.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud has announced that the Esso exploration well, the Liza1 on the Stabroek Block, using the drillship, Deepwater Champion has discovered the organic compound.
The exploration company is however expected to carry out a full evaluation of the results before it could confirm whether there are commercial quantities of hydrocarbons, specifically light crude. If the discovery of commercial quantities is made, then there could be a transformation of Guyana’s economy.
Crude oil is a mixture of substances which are mostly hydrocarbons. A hydrocarbon is a compound containing hydrogen and carbon only.
The oil company has made this headway amid the political mayhem between Guyana and Venezuela, where the latter remains adamant that the area where the US company is drilling is within its territory.
In early March, the oil and gas company, one of the largest in the world, was warned by the Spanish-speaking coun-
try to refrain from going ahead with its planned exploratory drilling activity, on a concession awarded by Guyana.
The multibillion-dollar project, however, got underway early last month.
Venezuela has repeatedly laid claim to the area being explored, ignoring an 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which was declared as the full and final settlement of the boundary between the two South American nations. With Venezuela’s obdurate insistence on its position, Guyana is considering judicial settlement of the boundary.
Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited; an affiliate of ExxonMobil, holds 45 percent interest. Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.
The project is expected to be executed over a 10year period and has been divided into three sections including two phases in each section which lasts for one to two years. The scope of operations include a drillship with approximately 200 crew and contractors; helicopter support, with two from Ogle, including a utility and a Search and Rescue at all times; four support vessels and two shore bases, running from Georgetown and Trinidad, and a waste treatment facility at the John Fernandes
Site at Houston, Greater Georgetown. The total area allotted to Exxon covers 26,806 square kilome-
ters. The company also has a target depth of 1750 metres.
Guyana has been receiving sustained international attention from huge companies, especially in the oil sector.
The US Geological Survey said in 2000 that the Guyana-Suriname Basin has the second largest unexplored oil potential in the world after Greenland. Guyana first struck oil in the 1980s in the Takutu Basin, and there is much optimism that oil will be found in commercial quantities.
ExxonMobil has joined other investors such as CGX Energy, Repsol, Anadarko Guyana Co, and Gas and Nabi Oil and Gas in exploring oil in Guyana’s offshore Atlantic basin.
Exxon Mobil’s Deepwater Champion
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
The political parties, especially the major ones, PPP/C and PNC-led APNU/AFC, are in last pitch efforts to win the hearts of voters. We had said before that this is a straight race between the PPP/C and PNC; in effect, it is a clear choice between going backwards or moving forward considering the history of both parties.
Many of us would recall how important the 1992 elections were, and what it meant to us as a nation. Those elections could justifiably be regarded as a defining moment in the history of Guyana.
It marked a break from nearly three decades of authoritarian rule by a regime that was foisted on the backs of the Guyanese people, which eventually morphed into one of the worst forms of quasi-military and dictatorial rule in the English-speaking Caribbean.
Under the PNC, Guyana became a laughing stock among Caricom nations and, at one time, was deemed “uncreditworthy” by the IMF. However, since the PPP/C Government took office it has been able to completely turn around Guyana’s fortunes. Despite obstruction tactics employed by the combined political Opposition, aided and abetted by a hostile Opposition media, the country continues to make substantial progress in every facet of national life.
It is significant that 2014 saw Guyana growing economically for the ninth successive year. This is the longest period of continuous economic growth in the recent history of this country. It is even more noteworthy that this growth was achieved despite the fact that the international environment was not favourable for some of the important sectors of the economy. There was a noticeable fall in the international market on the price for gold, which had and continues to have an impact on our gold sector. The price for sugar on the world market declined by some 60 per cent. The rice industry has similarly been facing the challenges of market availability and unfavourable prices.
The gains made in the social sector cannot be ignored. These gains have no doubt resulted in every Guyanese enjoying a more comfortable and happy life. Guyana has had much success in the field of education. This is evidenced by the tangible improvements in infrastructure, the percentage of trained teachers, high enrolment ratios across all levels, results at national and regional exams, increased interest and attainment in the sciences, and access to technical, vocational, and tertiary facilities.
Guyana’s health services have improved both in terms of quality and in terms of quantity, despite many challenges. The Government now provides services at a more technical level, including heart by-pass operations, dialysis services, improved cancer treatment, better facilities for burn victims, etc. In every region, Government has built new hospitals or upgraded health facilities. Even in the remotest of areas, the PPP/C Administration has established and staffed health facilities.
Guyana’s Housing Programme continues to provide our citizens with their own homes, giving them great comfort and security. Entire new communities have emerged where the land once laid wasted and unoccupied. Tens of thousands of Guyanese families have realised the cherished dream of home ownership.
Not forgetting the needs of the most vulnerable, the Government continues to alleviate the various problems experienced by our senior citizens by improving their Old Age Pension. Guyana stands proud as one of the few countries in the world with a universal noncontributory pension paid to every elderly person who has met the sole eligibility criterion of attaining the qualifying age.
Many great strides were made in improving the economy and advancing the social sector in spite of the many attempts by the Opposition-APNU/AFC, to stymie the growth and development of the country.
It is important that the PPP/C regains the majority in the National Assembly to ensure continued social and economic progress. The Administration has pledged to build on the gains already made.
There is now a clear choice before every Guyanese, and this would determine whether we move forward or go backwards as a nation.
Each one of us is trapped
Dear Editor, Gordon Forte must know that DNA is the part of the human physiology that evolves quite on its own. If I traced mine, it would take me to the home of my ancestors, India. And hasn’t Indian DNA contributed in great and glorious ways to the advancement of human civilisation!
Each one of us is trapped – to use Mr Forte’s word – by our individual DNA. It is the hereditary and family lineage of our biological makeup and no one can renounce, deny or reject their DNA. How much DNA has to do with behaviour, and spiritual and cultural evolution is still a matter of debate. However, evolution is not limited to DNA alone. It is because of my evolution as a free spirit that I reject
degraded culture and embrace traditions and values, learned from my ancestors, which uplifts the human spirit rather than diminish it.
If Mr Forte has no DNA in his family lineage that he wishes to similarly emulate this is truly unfortunate and must be pitied. We can only hope that his personal evolution will eventually catch up with that of the civilised world; where ethnic, cultural, and every other identity – gender, sexual orientation, religious, etc –are guaranteed, protected and respected through constitutional laws, human rights charters, and by a sense of plain moral correctness on the part of every citizen.
Not many of us wish to repudiate our
ancestral past and, in fact, my hot-mouth is very much part of my DNA. It comes to me from my nanee, an Indian woman from Port Mourant who gave as good as she got and took no eye-pass from anyone. She would be so proud of me for continuing the tradition and might have a thing or two to tell Mr Forte herself if she were still alive.
My nanee and aja and chacha and poowah have all contributed to making me the person that I am and if Mr Forte has no similar family bonds to speak of then his happiness as a person must be truly limited.
Ryhaan Shah
I switched from the coalition to the PPP/C to protect my
Dear Editor, I had made up my mind early that I wanted change and cheered the coming together of the coalition; I was an Alliance For Change (AFC) supporter. I fell for the racial unity talk peddled by the AFC. I thought it is best for the country.
But I have changed my mind. What I am seeing is not racial unity but racial convenience to vote out the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and have the People’s National Congress (in the form of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)) take control over the country. It is a one race unity.
The coalition disappoints me and is not to be trusted. In looking at the APNU-AFC manifesto, it reminds me of Burnhamism. The APNU (PNC) has not changed and is behaving exactly how the PNC behaved in 1964.
The APNU is simply using AFC to ride into government just like how the PNC used the UF to ride into government. And the AFC refuses to accept this fact. Those chaps in AFC are very naive, allowing themselves to be used.
Nagamootoo will not be able to save the country from the PNC just like how D’Aguiar could not save it
from Burnham.
You know what they did to the country during the 1970s and 1980s – all coming back and it is all written in the manifesto. Here is what the APNU-AFC manifesto says:
1. They will reassess peoples’ property and raise tax to pay for 50,000 government workers.
2. People will have to show where they get money to build their house; and if they can’t, then the APNU government will confiscate the house like what Burnham did.
3. People will have to show how they got so much wealth, and if they can’t show how they earn the money, the APNU government will take it away.
4. If people can’t show how you got their wealth, it gone. This is exactly what the PNC did during the 1970s and 1980s; and the same people are there – Carl Greenidge, Hamilton Greene, Steve Harmon, Winston Felix – all of them from the 1960s and 1970s are still there and thinking the same way – they plan to take away what hard working people build.
5. The APNU/AFC they will start new government owned business; that means government will control all trade, imports and exports,
business
and private business will be squeezed out. If you own a business, it must buy goods from the government import board that Burnham had.
This is the same policy that drove out Portuguese, Chinese, Indian business people and other professionals and hardworking people.
6. APNU/AFC says they will hire more government workers and remove those associated with the Opposition. This was exactly what the PNC did during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s – fire hard working people; remove people from jobs based on their race and political affiliation.
6. The APNU manifesto says government will start new food packaging industries, meaning government agents will seize farmers’ produce and pay them what they want like what they did in the 1980s and 1970s.
7. APNU says government will mill rice. That is exactly what PNC did that during the 1970s and 1980s. Peoples crop were seized.
Farmers did not get fair compensation for their produce. Those who complain about paddy and rice price now will face a worse situation if APNU-AFC wins.
8. The AFC-APNU promises to seize control of the Berbice River Bridge toll and
lower the toll; who will pay for operating the bridge? The bridge is costly and losing money. When APNU takes over the bridge, you know what will happen? They will run it into the ground. The bridge will fall into the river.
9. They say they will abolish the court of appeal; you know the PNC did the exact thing when they last governed; they abolished the Privy Council – so we could not appeal to England to protect us; they have plans for you.
PNC-APNU wants to control everything; don’t take a chance with these people. They will ruin Guyana. Your house will lose value. You will have to pack up and run. Already some business men say if APNU/AFC wins, they catching the flight the next day.
They know what these people will do to our beautiful country. They know what the PNC did before. And they know what the PNC is capable of doing. Property will lose value. Businesses will close shop. These people have sinister motives; you can’t trust them. At least with PPP/C, you know what you get.
Denise
Wiggins Former AFC supporter
Artists draw patterns in the sand at low tide on North Beach, Tenby, South Wales, May 7 (REUTERS/Rebecca Naden)
PPP/C praised for Version 2.0 and embracing professionals
Dear Editor, Supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) shower praise on the party for its commitment to and advocacy of Development Version 2.0, according to the findings of the ongoing NACTA poll.
Non-aligned voters are attracted to some of the economic proposals of Version 2.0. Voters also applaud the party for embracing new, young professionals of varied ethnicities and putting them up as parliamentary candidates.
The new faces in the parliamentary line up have brought a sense of freshness and dynamism in the PPP/C, signalling signifi -
cant change is coming to the country’s oldest party.
The inclusion of the new faces in the PPP/C’s candidate line-up has created a renewed sense of hope among voters who left the PPP/C in 2011 and voted for the AFC that led to the PPP/C losing its majority.
Voters are still angry with the AFC for joining the PNC to contest the election but feel it is a blessing in disguise for the PPP/C.
But the voters say they not only want to see a commitment to policy in Version 2.0 and new MPs, they also want a change in the way business is conducted as well as significant change in the faces of the cabinet.
Supporters and even non-supporters praise the performance of several prominent members of the Government, including but not limited to Irfaan Ally, Dr Ashni Singh, Frank Anthony, Robert Persaud, Priya Manickchand, Carolyn Rodrigues, Dr N K Gopaul, and Bishop Juan Edghill, all of whom have high poll numbers among party supporters for likability and performance.
Voters are disappointed in the performance of several others, who have fallen into disfavour.
Party supporters say they are pleased that former President Bharrat Jagdeo has joined the cam-
Open letter to Moses Nagamootoo
Dear Moses, I am very curious… where are A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) plans for Berbice located in your manifesto?
You have pledged 12 per cent of your votes to Granger, but your manifesto only speaks about developing Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and more specifically Linden. Linden receives cheap electricity that I pay taxes
for, cheap house lots from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) for less than $50,000 which I pay taxes for, but nothing has been earmarked for developing Berbice. Your manifesto mentions Berbice four times – two of those times Berbice is used in the context of the Berbice River Bridge; once to name an administrative region and once for shared development. And this is what you
stated, APNU and AFC plan to implement policies aimed at the intermediate Savannahs, Upper Demerara and Berbice regions, long touted as the next frontier for agricultural development.
If Granger can’t give Berbice anything in a manifesto, what makes you think you will get anything from him after elections?
Selina Harris
Freddie might be suffering from convenient amnesia
Dear Editor,
Either Freddie Kissoon is suffering from convenient amnesia, or deliberately distorting the facts, knowing that migration was spawned under the PNC dictatorship when East Indians migrated in droves through backtrack, real and fake marriages and legitimate visas. They had no option being subject to victimisation, starvation, subjugation, while PNC supporters watched on with jubilation. This was compounded by other atrocities of robbery, rape, arson, looting, guylines, bribery and thuggery from Rabbi Washington goons.
And, Freddie, families who fled during the sixties and seventies sponsored either their parents, husbands, wives whose spouses sponsored their brothers, sisters and parents and the cycle continues to this day, hence the lines at the US Embassy.
And, currently I know of numberless persons who returned to Guyana after being granted US visas, something unheard of during the PNC era. Can Freddie Kissoon say why these people returned to Guyana under the PPP/C regime?
There is no need to leave
Guyana under the PPP/C where you are now free to malign people of repute on a daily basis in the Kaieteur rag and where some of your colleagues are salivating to return in order to enjoy the gains of the PPP/C.
So, migration because of the PPP/C Government is nothing but a myth and a figment of your warped imagination.
D Singh
paign, raising hopes of a PPP/C victory. The former President is held in high esteem by party supporters and even young non-supporters.
Since his involvement in the campaign, the PPP/C has recovered a significant percentage of the support it lost in 2011 and re-attracted those who stayed away from the polls.
But the PPP/C’s support is still not over the 50 per cent to seal a victory mark and is in a close battle with the opposition coalition.
The findings show the Africans are not splitting their vote while Indians are splitting their vote, which could affect the outcome of the election.
NACTA
Exit polls based on fabrication are harmful
Dear Editor, The statement by Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally which states that only results released by GECOM should be considered final and legitimate is most helpful, especially in light of attempts by the APNU+AFC coalition to have a ‘parallel’ release of results via the social media.
The so-called ‘exit polls’ based on hasty generalisations and fabrications are particularly harmful – as in the case of the Disciplined Services balloting – and should be discouraged. This is fraught with danger and has the potential to create confusion and doubts as to the true polling outcome based on verifiable polling results.
The use of the electronic media to transmit polling day results has room for all manner of manipulation by
unscrupulous elements. This medium of transmission of results should not be condemned by GECOM, elections observers and all those interested in free, democratic and peaceful elections. Still, fresh in the memory of Guyanese, were the attempts by a senior official of the PNC who took to the airwaves to announce that the PNC had won the October 5, 1992 election even though a Carter Centre quick count mechanism gave the PPP/C a majority of the votes, and the final results had not been released by GECOM. There is an urgent need to guard against a repeat of such unsavoury practices which is not only counterproductive, but could potentially create great harm to our democracy and image as a politically matured and tolerant society.
Hydar Ally
friday, may 8, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com
Jagdeo debunks ‘racist’ label
…says guilty Opposition looking for scapegoat
Former President and Executive Member of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Bharrat Jagdeo has denounced claims that the incumbent party practiced racism and was selective in its policies and programme for the ethnic groupings in the country.
Speaking on Television Guyana’s (TVG) Channel 28 programme, “Under the Microscope” on Thursday evening, Jagdeo told host, Michael Younge that he nor the party practiced racism and will never practice such.
He explained that while the Opposition likes to harp that he was a racist, the policies and programmes implemented under his government and the current government can prove that the incumbent has never neglected any one ethnic group or race while contrasting this with the former People’s National Congress (PNC) government which he
said, never respected Afro Guyanese, even though it had claimed to; noting that every Guyanese should revisit the past to see that this was not simply hearsay but rather the true history of the country. “I would ask every Guyanese to ask their parents and grandparents about the period pre 1992. How many Afro Guyanese were given a piece of land? Today over 50,000 Afro Guyanese own a piece of land that they didn’t own when the PNC was in office…”
Ever race respected Jagdeo said that it was under the ruling party that the rights of Afro Guyanese, Indo Guyanese and every other race was respected and catered for. “We can say today, public servants’ salaries have grown tremendously, we’ve restored respect to the public service. Today you have more Afro Guyanese owned businesses that at any other time in
our history. We have more Afro Guyanese who own vehicles apart from land, more employed. We have changed the lives of many people, not just Afro Guyanese, but Indo Guyanese, Amerindians…,” the former president said.
The PPP Executive Member noted that the only reason he is being called racist was simply because the Opposition wanted to shine the limelight away from their lack of policies and programmes in their 2015 Elections Manifesto. According to him, it was their plan to polarise the country, in an effort to win the elections, to be held on Monday, May 11.
Poor track record
“…Mr. Granger has a poor track record and all of Guyana knows this whether you’re Afro Guyanese or Indo Guyanese or any other race… they cannot compete on their track record…if you cannot contest the elections on your track record, then
you cannot contest the elections on your future because your plans are mediocre according to their Manifesto, so what do you do? You polarize the country along the racial lines as the only campaign tool to get their votes... and hope that you can win the elections…they have an interest in polarizing the country,” Jagdeo expressed.
Revisiting comments which he had made at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, Berbice in March at the commemoration of the death of former President and founding leader of the PPP, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Jagdeo alluded that the Opposition and members of society have taken his comments in the wrong context and it was never intended to paint him as a racist or the party as guilty of practicing racism.
At the event Jagdeo had accused the Opposition of racism. “They did it in South Ruimveldt. I hope this doesn’t happen in these elections be-
cause they did the last elections. We know racism exists, we know they use that language to campaign but if we use it we are exacerbating it? “You should really go after the people who used it in a derogatory way, not me who is trying to fight this… Now when I want to fight that you are saying it’s some evidence of some divisiveness…
Jagdeo had said that the “mere fact we are talking about it here today gives hope that everybody will be vigilant on the campaign, that we don’t use that language. And
you as well as I will keep our ears open also for the whisper campaign… From the last election to now I can bring maybe five persons who can say we have heard this in our homes or heard that, the drum beating people walking to their homes and saying and shouting this.” He further stated that anyone caught practicing racism in the party will be kicked out. The former President said that the statement was not meant to be racially divisive in any way but was rather an act of condemnation of racism in Guyana especially on the political platform. “It is like someone using the ‘n’ word in the United States and the people who say let’s condemn racism, they are now getting accused of being racist.” He declared that his track record was clean and can speak for himself, noting that the PPP has never practiced race politics and will never do such. “The day the PPP becomes an ethnic party, I, Bharrat Jagdeo will not be a part of that party,” he declared.
Voters say country made progress under PPP/C – NACTA Poll
Voters from both political divides say Guyana has made tremendous progress since the restoration of democratic rule in 1992, according to the findings of an ongoing tracking opinion poll being conducted by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) on issues relating to the May 11 general elections.
Voters point to the great strides the country has made in economic growth, standard of living, favorable balance of exchange, unrestrained trade, infrastructure, expansion in housing, growth
in business, education, and farming, among other sectors of the economy. They also praised the PPP/C for the institutionalisation of democracy in the nation – unfettered press freedom and free and fair general elections, although they are disappointed that various political and administrative obstacles prevented the holding of periodic local government elections. However, a majority of voters are fearful that the progress the country has made since 1992 could be wiped out if there is a change in government. Their greatest concern is whether the PNC-led coalition (APNU/
AFC) will return the country to import restriction, confiscate private property, assume control over trade, and re-impose authoritarian governance that existed under the PNC dictatorship between 1966 and 1992. Some business owners and professionals say they will leave the country if there is a change in government fearing the establishment of a dictatorship, currency controls, trade restrictions, employment discrimination, banning of goods, mandatory national service, and various horrific forms of atrocities (including murders) committed on citizens prior to 1992.
The poll was conducted by Dr. Vishnu Bisram to represent the varied demographics of the population (42 per cent Indians, 31 per cent Africans, 17 per cent Mixed, 9 per cent Amerindians, and 1 per cent other races).
The findings of the poll reveal that Africans are voting solidly for the PNC (APNU)-led coalition whereas Indians are splitting their votes, making it an unusually tight race. If Indians don’t split their votes, the PPP will hold the edge. Some voters of both major races are wavering in their commitment to the coalition fearing the unknown.
It is a case of “the devil you know is better than the one you don’t know” or “could be worse than the one you currently have”. The presence of certain individuals in the opposition coalition connected to the illgovernance of the PNC prior to 1992 makes many voters uneasy. Wavering voters are trying to balance the good with the bad of both major parties in making up their mind how to vote. Some (including Indians) want change but fear a return to the ugly period of the 1970s and 1980s when their property value and their savings became worthless.
Some voters across all ethnic groups are disenchanted with aspects of PPP/C governance. But they (a majority of those old enough to remember the PNC era) say the PPP/C has governed much better than when the PNC was in office. Almost every voter says they are concerned about the tone of election campaign and express the hope there will be no violence on or after election day and that the parties will accept the outcome peacefully. Voters were also asked other questions and how they intend to vote. The findings will be released in a subsequent report.
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo
Opposition readies plans for sugar industry shutdown
By Andrew CArmiChAel
rime Ministerial
PCandidate for the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition
Moses Nagamootoo has for the first time outlined plans for displaced sugar workers should the state-run industry be closed.
The shocking revelation came on Tuesday as he spoke at an Arrival Day ceremony at Highbury, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
Nagamootoo said displaced sugar workers should be given first preference to the land to do what they wanted, including the rearing of fish.
The main Opposition had in the past said that if they were to become the next Government, they would close the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).
However, following President Donald Ramotar’s announcement that Guyana cannot afford to close the sugar estate, mentioning some of the serious negative impacts such a closure will have on Guyana, Presidential Candidate for the APNU David Granger started telling his supporters that “sugar is too big to fail” and if he becomes President, he will not close the sugar estate.
Nagamootoo had also told supporters during re-
cent champagne meetings across the country that the sugar industry will not be closed if the coalition won at the May 11 poll. Prior to the Valentine’s Day marriage between the PNC-led APNU and the AFC, party Executive Nagamootoo speaking to residents of New Amsterdam at a meeting in Angoys Avenue, called for the closure of the sugar industry. Also speaking at two other rallies organised by the APNU+AFC coalition in Region Six, activist Paul Austin called for the closure of the sugar industry.
Stanley Ming, a former PNC Member of Parliament (MP) is also on record calling for the local sugar industry to be closed while Tony Vieira made a similar call for the close of the industry roughly a year ago. Both parties have supported a call to replace sugar with tilapia cultivation.
However, on Arrival Day, Nagamootoo went a little further saying they will close the sugar industry and outlined what should happen after its closure. “Our ancestors worked very hard and today we still have their descendants on the sugar estate working very hard and of course they deserve to reap the contributions made by their ancestors and they don’t need to be afraid that the factory may be closed and that they may be out of jobs.
They need to be guaranteed that even if there is factory closure on the sugar estates that the land must first go to the sugar workers. Let them choose if they want to grow cane on it, let them choose if they want to rear fish on it or they want to rear cattle on it. The land belongs to the ancestors of our Indian foreparents who worked in the sugar industry…” Nagamootoo said to the surprise of many who were in attendance.
Inquiry
Additionally, Presidential Candidate of the coalition, David Granger said there is need for the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry first, before his administration decides what will become of the
Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). Granger’s comments were made in response to remarks made by Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, who said the coalition had “insulted” sugar workers when it failed to include them in its developmental plans should the party get into power after May 11.
The party last Thursday had released its manifesto but according to the Agriculture Minister, it left the workers and more particularly the industry out of its plans. Granger who before time had called for the privatisation of the industry told Guyana Times that an intense investigation will have to be carried out into
the operations of the industry, particularly since there have been numerous reports of workers not turning up for work, among other things. Until this is done, the party, which is seeking to take the rein of leadership at the General and Regional Elections, could not give any assurances of the future of the industry.
Ramsammy had noted in his statement that after the election, “the most intriguing and disgraceful occurrence will be the stupidity of APNU/AFC in insulting the sugar workers”. He said it was appalling that the coalition has no plans for GuySuCo,noting that as Agriculture Minister, he continues to be concerned about the intentions of APNU/AFC relating to the sugar workers and the sugar industry. He noted that while the party does not consider sugar workers “as their concern,” the incumbent has always stood with the sugar industry.
Speaking on behalf of APNU recently, Granger had said that the partnership had long called for a “turnaround plan” which will include the reconstitution of the board of the Sugar Corporation. In the absence of such a plan, Granger said the industry was plagued by a dwindling labour force in addition to a series of managerial problems that continue to stifle its growth. “We are not going
to dissolve the sugar industry; we want the turnaround plan, we want to sit down with GuySuCo and turn the industry around; it is too big to fail,” Granger had told this newspaper.
However, he said the partnership “would not want to be pumping billions of dollars” into it; hence, the need for privatisation. “There will be a gradual transference of more agricultural or field production to private hands, but for the time being, we see that the factory operations will continue to be centralised, but it is our view that more of the production should be in private hands.” It is clear that Granger’s position has not changed since the 2011 election. Back then, Granger, in the capacity of Presidential Candidate of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), said he would have privatised the sugar industry if elected President of Guyana. “I would like to get out of state-owned media, stateowned petroleum distribution, state-owned sugar. I don’t think this is the concern of the state… I don’t think there is any place for state ownership of those things anymore; certainly not under David Granger,” he had said, while addressing the first business luncheon organised by the GMSA for Presidential Candidates in 2011.
APNU/AFC Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo
friday, may 8, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
Husband, wife remanded on ammo charge
Barry Dataram and his 19-year-old reputed wife, Anjanie Boodnarine, who are currently on trial for narcotics trafficking along with two other individuals, made another appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday.
Dataram, of 13 Vriesland, West Bank Demerara ,and Boodnarine, of 79 Patentia, Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara, both pleaded not guilty to the charge read to them by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine Beharry,
which stated that on April 16 at Lot 661 Fourth Avenue, Block X, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, they had in their possession 180 live rounds of .223 ammunition without being the holders of a firearm licence.
Bail was denied and the two were remanded to prison on the charge. They will return to court tomorrow for the appointment of a date for the commencement of trial.
On April 20, Dataram, Boodnarine, 20-year-old Komal Charran of 265 Belle West, West Bank
Demerara, and Trevor Gouveia of Best Village, West Coast Demerara, were all remanded to prison on a drug trafficking charge.
The four defendants were found in possession of 129.230 kilogrammes of cocaine along with the ammunition at the aforementioned address on April 16.
When...
...is legacy real?
The PNC-led coalition has played up Joey Jagan's endorsement. The voters of Guyana fortunately have been exposed to Joey (and he's always called this, never Cheddi Jr as he bills himself) for over two decades now - and they can evaluate what his endorsement means. You'd think it'd be hard to think of a 68 year-old man as a wayward and petulant rabble-rouser, wouldn't you?
But that's how Joey's seen by most - and it ain't flattering. Joey tries to get away with it by claiming he's "candid" and "tells it as it is".
But that's the problem, isn't it?? The way you evaluate a situation depends a hell of a lot on your own beliefs and biases - and responsible adults just don't blurt out whatever pops up in their heads.
Joey's opinions on any matter are always the "right" one - and woe be to anyone who differs. He never listens to other opinions - and that's one of the major differences from his father Cheddi Jagan, whose legacy he claims to represent. Cheddi was a man who LISTENED to people.
Really listened. It didn't matter whether you were prince or pauper, you could count on Cheddi to listen to what you had to say.
It didn't mean that Cheddi wasn't a man of strong opinions...but it was opinions tested through a willingness to have them contested. Most of Joey's escapades over the years, which cause folks to shake their heads in bemusement, arise from his impetuousness.
And so his entire life - from the time as a young man he tried to burn down a Canadian university - has been one long clean-up exercise by his father or someone else helping to get his foot (or worse) out of his mouth.
Whatever happens after this election, we can expect Joey to have a falling out with APNU/AFC. There's no way that he, Nagamootoo and Ramjattan can co-exist in one organization.
In contrast to Joey, we have his younger sister Nadira. She's always avoided the limelight - but behind the scenes she's been assiduously working to ensure that the legacy of her parents is preserved.
She's written a book on her father, and exposed him to the entire world through a meticulously maintained website - jagan.org, for the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre in Georgetown.
Earlier this year, she'd taken umbrage at some statements the Opposition press had claimed former President made about her father. Unlike her brother in temperament, however, she obviously reflected on the explanation of what was actually said.
Her endorsement of the PPP/C is a reflection of her true Jaganite legacy.
...is a coalition real?
In politics when different parties get together there are two ways they can do it - form a coalition, where they completely merge name, platform and personnel or form an "alliance".
In the latter, purely for convenience they hitch up to achieve some goal - like ganging up on a common enemy.
The AFC link up under the Cummingsburg Accord is a not a coalition but a calculated alliance - just to oust the PPPC from office.
The group the PNC formed with the WPA and GAPAPNU - is a real coalition - they adopted one name and identity etc. Using the "marriage" analogy used by Moses Nagamootoo the AFC's arrangement is more like having visiting rights "to get it on" rather than a real marriage to create a family.
Such arrangements, without a commitment to the future, can never last...not least because the parties to the arrangement are only looking to fulfill their own selfish desires.
There will be a very nasty breakup after their loss on May 11. But them, "deh only tek"!.
...endorsements insult intelligence
OK...we know the PNC's desperate for Indian votes from Berbice. But soliciting Alvin Kallicharran's endorsement, after he'd led a cricket team to apartheidera South Africa??
Burnham must be spinning is his mausoleum!!
Alleged drug trafficker: Anjanie Boodnarine
Alleged drug trafficker: Barry Dataram
friday, may 8, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com
PPP/C to engage int’l observers ahead of E-day
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has disclosed its intention to engage international observers on matters pertaining to the upcoming General and Regional Elections.
At a press conference at Freedom House on Wednesday, PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee told reporters that the party has several concerns with respect to security on elections’ day and the days after, and the conduct of political parties especially that of the People’s National Congress (PNC) led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC).
Already, the PPP/C has made several complaints of APNU/AFC provocative acts including incidents of bottle pelting, and in one particular incendiary incident an APNU supporter, allegedly the daughter of an APNU MP, urinating on a PPP/C flag, waving it aloft and leading youths in a chant of “We gon bun dem out!!”
Last Tuesday, the Carter Centre, which has an observer mission here in Guyana, said it is “deeply concerned about the provocative rhetoric in the campaign,” even as it condemned attempts “to sow fear and distrust among Guyana’s ethnic groups.”
The centre also warned against attempts to undermine confidence in the country’s electoral process and institutions.
PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee
According to the centre, “it is imperative that political parties remain conscious of their obligations under the Political Party Code of Conduct for these elections and urge their supporters to behave accordingly.”
As Elections Day approaches, the Carter Centre is encouraging all Guyanese to make their strongest efforts to promote a peaceful and transparent electoral process. “These elections are an important opportunity for Guyanese to strengthen their commitment to one another and further consolidate their democracy.”
The Government had initially invited the United Nations, the Caribbean Community (Caricom), the Commonwealth and UNASUR; the Carter Centre, the United Kingdom Branch
of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, India and South Africa to observe the electoral process on Monday.
To date, observers from Commonwealth, Caricom, the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Carter Centre have arrived in the country. It is unclear whether any other international
observer mission is expected in the country at this time.
The groups are expected to assess all factors affecting the credibility of the electoral process as a whole, and determine whether the elections have been conducted according to the standards for democratic elections to which Guyana has committed itself, with reference to its own election-related legis-
lation as well as relevant regional, Commonwealth and international commitments.
The observers are expected to visit a large number of the 2299 polling stations identified for the conduct of General and Regional Elections.
Meanwhile, seven local organisations have been granted approval by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to observe next
Monday’s elections. These are the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Blue CAPS, the Electoral Affairs Bureau- a long standing observer of local elections, the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), the British High Commission and the United States Embassy here in Guyana.
Opposition rejects NCN’s free air time offer
Despite protesting in front the National Communications Network (NCN) some weeks ago for air time, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition is now refusing the free air time which has been allotted to it by the state run media house.
On April 29, NCN reportedly issued a letter to the coalition, stating its intention to provide airtime to all political parties in keeping with its mandate. In the letter, NCN indicated its willingness to provide 10 minutes for a “free political broadcast” to be aired on television by the APNU/AFC coalition. The letter further stated that any additional time for other broadcast would be treated as a commercial arrangement.
However, in refusing the offer, APNU/AFC said the proposal was unacceptable given the fact that over
the last three months, the Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) was able to use the immense reach of NCN to out-message the Opposition.
“APNU/AFC was not given equal time and because of the unfair distribution of broadcasting licenses, citizens continue to be inundated with pro-PPP/C messaging. APNU/AFC has been reliably informed that NCN plans to air live the PPP/C’s final rally at Lusignan this Saturday May 9, 2015. After the 2011 Elections, observers from the Organisation of American States (OAS) cited the disparity and lack of access to the state controlled media as an area of deep concern and one that had to be corrected if there were to be free and fair elections in Guyana,” the partnership explained.
The APNU/AFC coalition strongly believes that for there to be free and fair elections, political parties must
have equal access to the media, especially the state media.
“NCN as presently configured is a Government entity that is funded by the Guyanese taxpayers and tasked with a mission to disseminate information to the people of Guyana. However, what has happened is that the PPP/C has used the Government airwaves as a propaganda arm of the party. Guyanese taxpayer dollars are being used to maintain a network that is biased in its coverage of the news. The National Communications Network has been unbalanced in its reporting of current events, and it has given the PPP/C an unfair advantage and unlimited access to the public airwaves,” the coalition further stated.
The party said that as the largest political grouping in the country, the allotment of 10 minutes was seen as a total disrespect and a con-
tinuation of NCN’s policy of unfair and unbalanced reporting.
“We therefore reject the offer and register in the strongest possible manner our disappointment in the management and operation of the National Communications Network Inc.”
Guyana Times understands that the media outfit has been providing free coverage to all political parties contesting the upcoming General and Regional Elections on May 11. In fact, it was noted that some of the parties are taking advantage of this offer and the station would air ads for political parties upon their request. It was also noted that the Government will soon be issuing a statement concerning this new arrangement that was put in place to facilitate fair access to the state media during this period.
Commonwealth observers urge responsible response to elections results
The Commonwealth Observer Mission has pointed out that its role during the upcoming May 11 General and Regional Elections is more of an observatory task and not to supervise.
This is according to former New Zeeland Minister and Parliamentarian, Kate Wilkinson who is leading the team. She was at the time briefing local media operatives about the Observer group’s mission.
Wilkinson was questioned about her concerns given the fact that none of the recommendations made by the organisation following previous elections were not considered and implemented. She reiterated that the tasked before them is to observe the electoral process and not to regulate the process or issue any sanctions.
Following the 2011 election, the then Commonwealth Observer Group had made several recommendations on areas such as campaign financing, the electoral process and the use of State media among others. “We have obviously read the report from the previous elections but we have to be mindful that our role is quite defined – we don’t have a supervisory role. We are not charged with the implementation of the recommendations. We are here as impartial observers,” she stated.
Nevertheless, the team leader who has observed about four other elections under the Commonwealth umbrella opined that more support from Commonwealth could go a long way in assisting and ensuring that countries implement recommendations made by Observer Missions.
Wilkinson went onto say that since its arrival in Guyana, the Observer group has met with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), some of the po-
litical parties contesting the election, members of the press and international organisations. She added that over the next two days, the team is expected to meet with relevant stakeholders such as domestic and other international observer groups, youth representatives and the business community, in efforts to fully understand Guyana’s electoral process.
“It is our responsibility as observers to consider factors relating to the credibility of the electoral process as a whole. This includes observing and evaluating the pre-election period, Election Day itself, as well as the post-election period… We will assess whether the elections have been conducted according to the standards to which Guyana has committed itself, including through its constitutional and legislative framework and relevant Commonwealth and international commitments,” Wilkinson disclosed.
Additionally, she outlined that on Saturday the Commonwealth Observer team will deploy to various regions across the country to observe the environment and preparations for Election Day.
Polling Day
Meanwhile, on polling day, the members will be specifically observing the opening and closing of the polling stations, polling activities, counting of votes and transmittal of results. Because of its limited manpower, the group will be collaborating with other Observer Missions to adequately give coverage to all of Guyana’s administrate regions. Shortly after Election Day, the Commonwealth Observer group is expected to issue an Interim Statement of key findings. This will be followed by a final report before the team’s departure on May 17.
On a separate note, Wilkinson admitted that they have received concerns about the Disciplined Services polling day and will include them in their report along with recommendations. “We have specific terms of reference, which requires us to act independently, to act impartially. We have been specifically entrusted to observe the process as a whole, we are not here to supervise,” she noted.
In the meanwhile, the head of the Commonwealth team, which comprised of professionals from various member states, is urging both politicians and electorate to maintain peace dur-
ing the few days leading up to, during and after the elections.
“We look forward to a high turnout on Election Day and the conduct of peaceful elections. We encourage political parties to take a constructive approach to campaigning in these remaining days before the election. We also strongly urge the parties to respond to the officially declared results in a responsible manner,” Wilkinson stated.
Following a request for the Guyana Government, Secretary General of the Commonwealth Kamalesh Sharma, constituted an Observer Group for Guyana’s 2015 election.
Other members of the Observer Mission includes Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, Executive Director of the West African Civil Society Institute, Ghana; Dr Noor Mohammad, Former Deputy Elections Commissioner, India; and Dr Hume Johnson, Professor of Public Relations and Media Studies, Jamaica. Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission in Kenya, Ahmed Issack Hassan, along with Rajwantee Bullock, Local Government Councillor in Trinidad and Tobago and Raymond Whitaker, a Writer and Editor in the United Kingdom, also comprised the team.
Leader of the Commonwealth Observer Mission Kate Wilkinson (second sitting) and Albert Mariner, Head of the Caribbean/Pacific Section, Political Division, (sitting) along with the other members of the team
CGX remains optimistic of oil find here
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Canadian oil and gas exploration company CGX Energy, Dewi Jones said despite the challenges created by the collapse of oil prices in late 2014, the company has continued its initiatives to secure joint venture partners and has been able to maintain its working relation alongside major shareholders Prospector and Pacific Rubiales Energy Corporation to develop its substantial Guyana offshore and onshore acreage.
Jones said the company continues to exude optimism about its acreage and looks forward to seeing the results of exploration drilling in the region in 2015.
The CEO made the comments in a release of CGX’s audited consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Oil price on the world market had fallen by more than 40 per cent since June last year, when it was $115 a barrel. By December of
that same year, it had fallen below $70. That came after nearly five years of stability.
According to Jones, the company had commenced significant cost cutting initiatives in 2014 and those efforts have shown positive results. In 2014, he said, the company’s general and administrative costs had decreased by more than 50 per cent compared to fiscal 2013.
Detailing its 2014 yearend overview and highlights, Jones related that the company had recorded a net loss of US$45,001,229 or US$0.56 a share for the year-ended December 31, 2014, compared with a gain of US$599,207 or US$0.01 a share for year-ended December 31, 2013.
General and administration costs decreased by US$1,783,342 to US$1,673,223 in the year ended December 31, 2014 from US$3,456,565 for the same period in 2013. In light of the current low oil price environment, the company continues to imple-
ment cost cutting measures to preserve its cash. As part of these initiatives, Jones indicated that the company did not increase base salaries for any officers or employees and did not grant any annual incentive based compensation in 2014.
Reviewing its progress and projects too, he recalled the seismic contract the company had entered into with Prospector PTE Ltd to conduct a 3D seismic survey covering approximately 3100 km2 on the company’s 100
per cent owned Demerara Block. The aggregate cost of that seismic survey was approximately US$18 million with US$7 million paid to Prospector by way of issuance of 15,534,310 common shares in the capital of the company valued at Cdn$0.49 per share.
The company said it continues its initiatives to secure a joint venture partner for its Corentyne PPL and is actively pursuing this initiative.
“In the short term, the
company will likely require additional financing and seek to widen its shareholder base, but still with a view to negotiating farmout transactions as the primary way to enhance shareholder value. The company is hopeful that exploratory drilling currently underway in Guyana and Suriname will be successful and that a discovery in an adjacent block will have a significant impact on the company’s share price and on its ability to raise the capital required
to complete its existing work commitments in Guyana”. Under the terms of the settlement, the company received approximately US$900,000 pursuant to the terms of the Georgetown joint operating agreement (JOA) and neither party was responsible for costs or damages. CGX Energy is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company focused on the exploration of oil in the Guyana-Suriname Basin.
15-year-old girl missing after visit to welfare office
Fifteen-year-old
Kadisha Green, also known as “Black Girl” of Durban Backlands, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, has been missing for the past seven days. She was last seen leaving the Education Ministry’s welfare
office on Wednesday, April 29, claiming that she was going home.
According to the teenager’s relative, Gavin Chesney of Tucville, Georgetown, he took the child to the welfare office of the Ministry in an attempt to convince her to
start attending school again, since he did not want to get himself or his family into any trouble with the authorities. He indicated that the teenager’s mother passed away last year and ever since that incident, she was not attending school.
Chesney further told Guyana Times that the missing teenager used to live with her older sibling Aneisa Green. However, the elder sister recently started classes to further her studies and was unable to look after her younger sibling, so Chesney took the responsibility of taking care of the child.
He added that her brother Gordon Green is currently in the Guyana Defence Force and would normally provide financial support since his military schedule does not permit him to be home regularly. As it relates to the missing teen’s father, he said that he is aware that he resides in Trinidad, but stated the father has no contact with the teen.
Chesney noted that after the teenage went missing, her sister started to update him on previous instances where Kadisha would leave home without informing anyone, only to return days later.
After receiving this information, he said that he decided to wait a while to see if she would return home,
but it has been quite a number of days and she has not returned, nor has she made any contact with the family. He stated that he has no clue what could have caused the teenager to run away from home, adding that the family is very worried for her safety and well being. Chesney is pleading with the public to help him find her. Kadisha Green was last seen dressed in a pair of white short pants and a pink shirt. Persons with information about Kadisha’s whereabouts are kindly asked to contact the family on telephone numbers 655-0575, 670-9660, 692-8458 or the nearest police station.
Miner placed on bail for larceny
Aminer was, on Thursday, placed on $50,000 bail after he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine
Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with larceny.
Akeem Haymer , a resident of 20 Durban Street ,Lodge, pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that, on May 6 at Stabroek Market, Water Street, he stole from the person of the Virtual Complainant (VC), Sevika Devi John, one gold hand band valued at $60,000 and one bangle valued at $1,200; all to a total value of $61,200. The defendant was granted bail in the sum of $50,000 on the account that this is his first offence. Haymer will return to court on May 22.
Kadisha Green
Akeem Haymer
24-hour counselling, testing, and information centre opens in NA
By: Andrew CArmiChAel
Persons living in New Amsterdam and its environs can now access information on the town, and have access to HIV counsel-
training was conducted in human rights. “Every time the rights of one person are violated, the rights of others are violated,” Henry said.
are hoping too that NAPS in their next batch of training will make it possible for staff members and others from the town of New Amsterdam to also access training in voluntary counselling and testing, so that
ling and testing on a 24hour basis. This follows the opening of the New Amsterdam Information and Counselling Centre (NAICC) on Wednesday.
The NAM&TC committed itself to work with all local and national stakeholders to reduce the prevalence of HIV/AIDS.
we will have a larger pool of resources in terms of counsellors to draw from.”
Meanwhile, New Amsterdam Mayor Claude Henry said “we live today in a challenging society and the rights of everyone should be protected,” while noting that there is inadequate legislation to protect people’s rights.
“Guyana does not have the type of legislation to protect the rights of all of its citizens. Apart from that, it is the Government of the day who must en-
sure that people are not discriminated against and people’s rights are not trampled upon.”
When the project was conceptualised it was called ‘Voluntary Counselling Centre’ but for the opening it was changed to NAICC.
The centre which is situated under the Town Hall in the compound of the New Amsterdam Market is the first of its kind. Advocates of the project are United Bricklayers, Comforting Hearts, the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council (NAM&TC), the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association (BCCDA) and the Police.
The council also agreed to support the promotion of a 24-hour access site for HIV testing and counselling. They agreed to reduce stigma and discrimination at all levels, be it in the school, work place or the community. The council also agreed to respect the dignity and work of all persons within society.
More than two years ago, an assessment was conducted as it relates to HIV/AIDS and its reduction. It was found that HIV continued to be a big problem among key population. The key population comprises persons from different categories such commercial sex workers and men who have sex with men among others.
Lecturer of the University of Guyana, Tain Campus, Paulette Henry speaking at the opening on Wednesday, said the project not only aims to educate but to empower persons within those groupings.
As a result, extensive
According to Henry, NAM&TC is a pace setter, explaining that it allows all persons to be accepted in society.
“Discrimination against people is not an overnight change, it is a process but the process starts with all of us.”
The council is in partnership with United Bricklayers, Comforting Hearts, the Health Ministry and the National AIDS Programme Secretariat along with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Henry pointed out that the site at the New Amsterdam Market was chosen because of its location and easy access. She explained that the University of Guyana has a commitment to impart knowledge, information and skills into the community.
“At the University within the social work unit, we saw this as an excellent opportunity for a community/ university partnership and collaboration.
Our final year students were tasked to work on this project so that it can be formally launched and opened.”
Comforting Hearts and United Bricklayers will be providing counsellors for the centre which will also have available information on the municipality. “We
UG Lecturer Paulette Henry
A student of the New Amsterdam Special Needs School cutting the ribbon – a symbolic gesture signifying the opening of the centre
The New Amsterdam Information and Counselling Centre (NAICC)
friday, may 8, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
Gender Commission urges women candidates to lead by example
On the eve of General and Regional Elections, the Women and Gender Equality Commission is urging all the political parties and women in particular who are candidates to lead by example.
“We urge maturity and good-will by the political parties – women candidates, in particular, and by all citizens during the days ahead as we wrap up the campaigning, and prepare to cast our vote. We need never to sink to the level of gross personal attacks and demeaning and disrespectful insults,” the commission said on Thursday.
In laying out its expectations, the commission condemned attacks on all sides, especially those made by women candidates or levelled against them.
According to the commission, political leaders should put Guyana first in the execution of their mandates, and as such should be appreciative of the final re -
sult when it is announced.
“They must demonstrate tolerance of opinions and perspectives and uphold with respect, the freedom of association and the constitutional right of all Guyanese to vote for the party of their choice; and to accept with good grace the declaration of the results –independently sanctioned as free and fair,” the body said.
“We call on all Guyanese and on the leaders and supporters of all parties – women and men – to promote and act in a peaceful, mature and civil and orderly way on Elections Day and in the Post Elections period – especially when the elections results are announced. We expect exemplary conduct by the party leaders, women candidates and civil society organisations,” the commission added.
It also extended sincere appreciation to the Carter Centre which will be observing their 100th election, led by former President of the
Indra Chanderpal
United States of America
Jimmy Carter. “We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the other observer teams both local and international for their services to Guyana.”
In its New Year press release, the commission said Guyanese should endeavour to have a keenly and honestly contested election in which the promotion and advancement of women’s rights and gender equali-
ty will be prominent in all the parties’ manifestos and campaign priorities.
Now with the manifestos for the two main contenders released, the commission said it is pleased with the plans contained in the documents.
“We have seen the manifestos of the two major parties and note with optimism, their promises to enhance and advance women’s rights in Guyana. We are pleased that the two main contesting parties have fulfilled the constitutional requirement in relation to female candidates on their respective lists.”
The Women and Gender Equality Commission is also pleased that a woman was chosen to be the Prime Ministerial Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), noting too its appreciation of the fact that all the parties have put forward excellent slates of diverse women candidates of all age, race, class, location and creed.
Golden Fleece fire victims seek assistance
The family of three, who became homeless after fire completely destroyed their two bedroom house at Golden Fleece, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), is calling on the general public to help in their time of need.
Thirty-seven-year-old Sharron Bacchus and her two children, aged five and seven, are being sheltered by a close relative after their home went up in flames on April 27. It is believed that the fire was an act of arson committed by the children’s father who fled the scene and has not been seen since.
In an interview with Guyana Times, Bacchus said her children are unable to attend school because they do not have any school clothes, noting that life has become extremely difficult for her family.
“It is very hard because during the day we does be by me mudda and in the night we go over by me grandmother fuh sleep,” she explained.
She said the “little assistance” she received since the incident is helping her to keep her children from starving.
Despite the challenges being faced, the mother
of two is hoping to rebuild her house as soon as possible. “I want to move on with my life and build back my house. Is not easy but if people could assist, so I could knock up a lil ting… that would be nice.”
However, Bacchus, who had to sell the livestock she owned, said her immediate needs include kitchen utensils, mattresses and clothing.
On the evening of April 26, Bacchus and her husband had a problem which led to her being physically assaulted. She left home that evening after her husband picked up a cutlass and attacked her.
She was protected by her brother who was passing the house at the time. After spending the night at a relative, Bacchus returned the next morning but did not venture into the house. Shortly after smoke was seen coming from the building. Her husband later emerged from the smoking building and went into the backlands before disappearing.
Bacchus is asking that persons or agencies, who may want to assist, contact her on telephone number 676-0280.
Sharron Bacchus and her two children
UG continues to receive support from Private Sector
The University of Guyana (UG) continues to receive overwhelming support from the private sector, with the most recent contributor being Dr Shamir Ally, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of International Consulting and Financial Services, Pennsylvania, USA.
Over the past 10 years, Dr. Shamar Ali has been donating text books to the University of Guyana Library which have proven to be beneficial to the students, especially those who are majoring in Financial Accounting and Management. Ali strongly believes that when students read, it maximises their learning potential and expands their knowledge base.
In an interview with University of Guyana, Vice Chancellor Jacob Opadeyi stated that he expressed
University of Guyana Vice Chancellor Jacob Opadeyi
his gratitude to Dr Shamar Ali noting that he is very happy to know that as the time goes by, the private sector continues to come on board in numbers to provide support to the University of Guyana. He indicated that Ali has contributed over 1500 text books in the past 10 years, and that he is very satisfied with the quality and importance these books
Warlock shooting, an act of revenge – Police
In light of the recent gunning down of Sherwin Barrow in Warlock on Wednesday morning, the Police are working on the theory that it was an act of revenge, and as such are hunting for the prime suspect.
Barrow was shot at least seven times while he was in the company of several friends in front of a snackette in East Ruimveldt, Georgetown. A Police source told Guyana Times that the Police have vital information with regards to the shooting, and are hoping to arrest the perpetrator as soon as possible.
The Police source explained that Barrow was recently released from prison after the virtual complainant Kellon Hinds told the court that he did not want to proceed with the matter.
Barrow was accused of robbing Hinds of one gold chain valued $2.4 million and one gold band valued $1.4 million. During the robbery, Barrow reportedly discharged a round hitting the man to his thigh.
Barrow was charged for attempted murder and armed robbery. On this note, the Police source explained that they have established one motive for the shootingrevenge.
Ashomia Rogers, reputed wife of the dead man, said she warned Barrow several times not to “lime” in front of the snackette because of the recent court case.
She admitted that she was fearful that one day, Hinds would “come” for the father of three. “When I left him on Wednesday morning, I tell he go by granny but he didn’t hear me… he end up with he friends on the road and it was there he was
possess.
He added that the students are able to conduct their research in a more effective and efficient manner in that, they do not have to spend hours searching through various websites online trying to obtain useful information. These books cover the required knowledge base as it relates to their different courses.
In appreciation of Ali’s support over the past years, Opadeyi indicated that he will be working towards creating a section in the Library dedicated to Dr Ali, “D. Shamar Ali’s Corner”.
He said that once the private sector continues to provide their support, the University of Guyana will gradually improve and students will say, for a fact, that their time spent at the Institution is surely an unforgettable one.
shot… Anyone who want dismiss a court case like that would get something up they sleeve…” Rogers said.
She added that from all reports gathered, Hinds would have confronted Barrow under the pretext of making peace but instead, he pulled out the gun and pumped the bullets in his body. The woman is calling on the Police to find the perpetrator and let him feel the blunt of the law.
On Wednesday morning at about 08:55h, pandemonium broke out after two men on a motor cycle opened fire on the 24-year-old of Lot 1 East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown. The other men who were in the vicinity managed to scamper to safety without being hurt.
At the time of the shooting, Barrow was waiting on his reputed wife to accompany him to the Police station to visit his brother who was arrested on a robbery charge. The woman, however, had left to take her child to school. It was on her way home, she received the news of the shooting. The Police are continuing their investigation.
Duo accused of kidnapping Bhena’s salesman
The two persons charged for the kidnapping of the Bhena’s Footwear employee were, on Thursday, placed on $500,000 bail each by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
34-year-old Dexter John, a dredge owner of 109 Parafaithe Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, and 48-year-old Viola Morrison of Section C Block Y, Grove, both pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that, on May 4 at Regent Street, they abducted Waaldjik Xanier with the intent to unlawfully confine him.
According to Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru
The abducted is a sales clerk at Bhena’s Footwear and, on the day in question, he was about to enter his work premises when he was approached by a familiar man and forced
into a marked car which subsequently drove away. The man was held captive for some time and released on the West Bank of Demerara.
The Prosecution explained that a review of the surrounding CCTV footage led them to John, who was the driver of the motorcar.
Further investigation revealed that Morrison was actively involved in the perpetration of the crime and she was later arrested and charged.
The two were placed on $500,000 bail, each, and will return to court on June 5 for statements.
Dexter John Viola Morrison
Sherwin Barrow
friday, may 8, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
UK Election results: Tories confident as Labour falters
The Conservatives are confident David Cameron will remain PM with early general election results suggesting the party will be close to a majority.
Labour has rejected an exit poll suggesting it would get 239 MPs to the Tories' 316.
The same poll suggested the Lib Dems would lose 47 seats and the SNP would win all but one seat in Scotland.
Results so far suggest the exit poll is accurate but the vast majority of the 650 seats have yet to declare.
The exit poll, conducted by NOP/MORI for the BBC, ITV and Sky, the Lib Dems will get 10 MPs, the SNP 58, Plaid Cymru four, UKIP two and the Greens two.
If it is accurate, Mr Cameron will be able to remain in Number 10 as the head of a minority government without the need for a coalition - although he might have to rely on the support of the DUP or the Lib Dems.
Even if Labour leader Ed Miliband was able to persuade the Lib Dems to join the SNP in backing a Labour government, he would not have the necessary num-
bers to get his legislative programme through Parliament in a Queen's Speech.
The finishing line needed to form an absolute majority is 326, but because Sinn Fein MPs have not taken up seats and the Speaker does not normally vote, the finishing line has, in practice, been 323.
Labour insists Mr Miliband could still be prime minister because the coalition's majority will have disappeared.
Shadow chancellor Ed Balls told the BBC: "Even if the exit poll is right, that means the Conservative/ Liberal Democrat coalition majority has gone from 72 to zero - David Cameron's ability to hang on in Downing Street is on a knife-edge and he will have to reach out to get support from the Ulster unionists.
"If the exit poll is wrong just by 10 seats - and all the information is that there are very close fights between Labour and Conservatives in seats right across the countrythen suddenly David Cameron won't be able to get a majority in the House of Commons and it will fall to Ed Miliband as leader of the Opposition to then put a Queen's Speech be-
fore Parliament."
But early signs are that Labour is failing to do as well as opinion polls during the campaign suggested, particularly in the Midlands and South of England.
It failed to take one of its key target seats, Nuneaton, with the Conservatives increasing their majority with a 3% swing to David Cameron's party.
Labour also looks set suffer a hammering in Scotland at the hands of the SNP, with their vote dropping an average of 18% and the SNP predicted to take 58 of the 59 seats.
The party's general election chief and shadow foreign secretary Douglas Alexander has lost his seat to the SNP in Paisley and Renfrewshire South.
Already, Tories are using the language of victory: the Chief Whip Michael Gove told David Dimbleby on BBC One that if the exit poll was right, the Conservatives had "won".
They will make the case that if these numbers are accurate, they are the clear winners, even though they didn't quite make the finish line. (BBC. com)
Trio remanded for their 3rd charge of breaking and entering
Atrio of young men was remanded to prison on Wednesday at the Providence Magistrate’s Court after pleading not guilty to another charge of breaking and entering.
The men- Ryan Carter, Wayne Chester and Mahash Singh - were brought before Magistrate Annette Singh at the court where she read them the charge. It detailed that they broke into the home of Sahadeo Persaud between May 4-5, and removed an assortment of Persaud’s household items.
The Police report elaborated on the charge, stating that the Virtual Complainant (VC)
had secured his home Monday morning and left for work. He then later received a call from his neighbour, informing him that there was someone in his home. Persaud subsequently left work, went home and found that his backdoor was pried open.
The report continued that three men were brought in, arrested and questioned after several witnesses were able to describe them as the men who entered Persaud’s home and removed several household articles. The men pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Police Prosecutor Michael Grant, who will be prosecuting the case, objected to bail on the
premise that Carter, Chester and Singh all have matters pending against them in court. He detailed that these matters are of a similar nature to their previous infractions, as they allegedly broke into the homes of Maxine Benn and Radha Seepersaud on different occasions.
In addition, the Prosecutor stated that Carter has four matters pending in the court on his own, which range from narcotics trafficking to armed robbery.
Magistrate Singh heard the string of charges against the defendants and refused them bail. They are expected back in court on June 25.
Alleged conman charged with fraudulent conversion
Court 2 of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts found, on Thursday, that the prosecution had a case against a man charged with fraudulent conversion.
The accused, Renford Williams, was asked to present a case of defence on Thursday after Magistrate Ann McLennan found that
Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones had proven that there is a case against the defendant.
Williams was charged in June 2014 for fraudulent conversion after he was entrusted to personally deliver some gadgets to Sigmund Husband on behalf of Tonnette Grosvesnor, who is an employee of I Freedom Enterprise. Williams, however,
Antigua-Barbuda diplomat recognised by Canadian university
Antigua and Barbuda diplomat, writer and academic, Sir Ronald Sanders, has been elected as a Senior Fellow at Massey College in the University of Toronto. The announcement of his election was made by the Master of Massey College, Hugh Segal.
He joins leading Canadian academics and captains of industry in the inter-disciplinary activi-
ties of Massey College, including governance, diplomacy, business and international affairs.
Sir Ronald now has the distinction of concurrently being a Senior Fellow at two Universities in different Commonwealth countries. Guyana-born Sanders is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London, England.
Last October, his work as an advocate for Caribbean and Commonwealth causes was recognised by the University of the West Indies when he was accorded the honour of Doctor of Letters (D. Litt) by the University’s Senate and Council.
Sir Ronald has had a career as a senior diplomat and business executive. He has held many
elected international and Caribbean positions, including as a member of the Executive Board of UNESCO and Chairman of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force.
Having also served the 53-nation Commonwealth in many capacities, he is now a nominee for the post of Commonwealth Secretary-General.
converted these gadgets to his own use. The gadgets included an 11.2 million dish, modems worth $394,050 and $90,000, SIMS valued $8000, sac SIMS valued $16,000 and four VTech phones valued $20,000; a total value of $560,000.
On his first court appearance Williams’ attorney had told the court that I Freedom Enterprise would normally give his client the items and that he would pay for it either on a monthly or weekly basis. He also stated that, for the record, Williams had paid for the items previously and that it was a $10,000 transaction. However, I Freedom Enterprise’s attorney claimed that no payment was made by defendant and that the items were not recovered. He was assigned to deliver the gadgets but did not. The prosecution also claimed that it was all a part of William’s plan. Magistrate McLennan urged William’s attorney to proceed with their defence. They are expected back in court to do this.
Sir Ronald Sanders
Guyana receives $8B LCDS funds from Norway
...to be used for further development
President Donald Ramotar has announced that the Government has channelled another $8B to Guyana as part of the two countries agreement under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).
In a statement Thursday night, Ramotar said the $8B is 1$B more than last year’s payment, and brings the total received from Norway to $38 billion. He argued that “when people speak about development, many actually mean economic growth. Sure, we have been the fastest growing country in the Caribbean over the past five years, and by 2016 Guyana is projected to be an upper middle income country. That can be clearly considered development. But to me personally development means even more than that. To me development means that we can live in a better Guyana, and leave an even better country for our children,” the President said.
He said he believes that not a single Guyanese living on the coast should need to worry when there is heavy rainfall that their community will flood. “And not a single Guyanese in the hinterland should need to worry about not having water during droughts. Nor should any Amerindian community need to worry about having enough economic opportunities to support their development.”
Noting that solving these complex problems is not easy, Ramotar said his government understands that fixing complex problems takes investment.
“That’s why, we have to continue to come up with innovative technical and financial solutions to problems that many claim are impossible for a small country like Guyana to solve. The LCDS is a perfect example of this. In the early days of the LCDS, many sceptics thought that the LCDS was something too modern and complicated for Guyana, it was the kind of thing that only rich countries could do. But we, Guyanese, have proven them wrong. Today’s payment is concrete proof to any of these sceptics of what Guyana can achieve as a country. That is the story that the payment announcement today is telling us, and therefore, I think we all should be proud of this achievement.”
He added that today, Guyana is one of the leading countries in the world in managing natural resources sustainably. “And every Guyanese is benefitting from this. Our most recent deforestation rate was even lower than the previous year. We should also be proud that Guyana is currently taking the final steps to be recognised as a country that follows the highest standards of sustainable timber exporting in
the world under the European Union’s FLEGT programme. We are also working to be among the few countries in the world that have already set mechanisms to ensure the highest level of transparency in the natural resources sector through the EITI standard. And this is not me or the Government of Guyana saying it. It is being said by global experts, hired by the Government of Norway to carry out independent, factbased assessment."
The President said all Guyanese should feel proud of the vote in confidence expressed by Norway in announcing that they are willing to pursue a second agreement up to 2020, a policy that only the PPP/C supports in Guyana. “And all Guyanese
should feel proud that we have earned the most money from a forest partnership in the world, after Brazil. Money that is being directly spent on the people.”
The President said LCDS is about earning real money that is being spent on addressing serious problems faced by normal Guyanese.
“That’s where all the money, including the $8 billion received today, will be spent. The LCDS is about fixing the drainage systems in your coastal neighbourhood to ensure that your yard will not be flooded. The LCDS is about making sure that the dry regions of our country have sufficient water all-year round. The LCDS is also about helping farmers to earn more money, about providing cheap electricity for everyone, about stopping the waste problem and about allowing your children to get the highest level of education right here in Guyana. That’s what the LCDS is all about, and that’s what’s in it for you.”
The LCDS was launched in 2009, and as a pioneer, Guyana had to solve many issues during the early years.
Since then, the LCDS has done a lot. Guyana has now deployed US$120 million into projects, which are enabling the rehabilitation of Cunha canal that will protect Georgetown, and the communities and farms along the Mahaica River from floods like we saw back in 2005.
Using money earned under the LCDS, the government has also been working with local financial institutions to create hundreds of low carbon jobs. The LCDS has supported ecotourism operators in several regions, which is now attracting more and more tourists to Guyana. The LCDS has also supported hundreds of Amerindian villages in preparing their community development plans, which will help to generate new job opportunities in the hinterland.
Cut in electricity
According to the President the LCDS would have brought a cut in electricity bills starting next year if the opposition had not yet again decided to play politics with the people’s development by voting down the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project. “The simple fact is
that without these politicians we would now be on the cusp of cheaper, more reliable electricity and being the number one user of clean energy in the world. Sadly, we will never get back the time and money wasted by the partisan games played by the opposition, but we can make sure that after May 11, these shameful events will not happen again. The money earned for Amaila – US$80 million – is sitting in a bank account in Washington D.C. It is ready to be deployed, and Amaila will be built in accordance with the due diligence, social, financial and environmental standards of the IDB, which are among the highest in the world.” He said unfortunately, Amaila is not the only thing under the LCDS that the opposition has tried to stop us from doing.
“First, the opposition tried to stop Norway from paying Guyana the money that we earned from keeping our forests standing. When the opposition failed to achieve this, they tried to stop us from spending this hard earned money on the Guyanese people by cutting the entire LCDS budget.”
President Donald Ramotar
GPHC says Kaieteur News article on dead babies “misleading”
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has condemned Kaieteur News for an article published in its Thursday May 7, 2015 edition.
According to the city hospital, it is dissatisfied with the article captioned “GPHC misplaces dead babies in overcrowded morgue.”
“The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation sees the article as deliberately misleading, since no one from the newspaper contacted the Chief Executive Officer or the Public Relations Coordinator,” the hospital said in a release, hours after the article was published.
In the article, Kaieteur News said a father, Roger Smith had raised concerns about the bodies of babies which are untagged and stacked up at the GPHC morgue.
Smith had reportedly gone to uplift the body of his eight-day-old son, who died from jaundice, but the porters could not have located his body for over two hours.
The man told the local newspaper, “I see like four to five drawers with babies, like 20 babies in a drawer… all just thrown in like that, like pieces of meat, no tags, no nothing and no proper records…They keep pulling out baby after baby looking for the (baby’s) sex and I see a whole set of babies wrapped up with no tag just tossed and thrown in.”
However, GPHC is refuting the allegations of untagged bodies of babies,
highlighting that it is untrue since all bodies in the morgue have to be tagged so that they can be easily identified. The hospital added that Smith had retrieved the body of his son.
“The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation acknowledges that currently there are a number of dead babies’ bodies at the hospital’s morgue; as families sometimes refuse to collect the bodies. In these instances, the hospital cannot bury the bodies until a certain amount of time has elapsed and it is determined that the families will not take on burial responsibilities,” the hospital explained.
GPHC further explained that if it proceeds with burial and a relative subsequently turns up to uplift the body, the hospital can end up in “serious hot water.”
In addition, the city hospital went on to disclose that for 2015 it has already done 17 burials for bodies that were unclaimed, however, it did not specify whether these were adults or babies.
WPO decries burning of PPP/C flag
The Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) has condemned the storming of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) meeting in Warlock, West Ruimveldt last week by Opposition supporters, and called for the immediate sacking of an Education Ministry welfare official who was captured on camera urinating on the flag before burning it.
The official is the daughter of a former Member of Parliament of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). In a statement, WPO said a flag is the identity and pride of a nation and a country or an organisation.
“Similarly, the flag of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic is a representation of the vast majority of people, especially to the members of the party, its youth and women’s sections.”
According to the WPO, APNU and the People’s National Congress (PNC) have a history of disrespecting and abusing the national flag, ‘the Golden Arrow Head,’ by using it to drape the coffins of known criminals. This pattern of disrespect by leaders of PNC in
APNU/AFC (Alliance for Change) created the avenues for its members to disrespect the PPP/C flags,” the organisation said.
It added that since the commencement of elections campaign, members and supporters of the APNU/AFC coalition have been destroying the flags, posters and banners of the PPP/C across Guyana, something the ruling party has openly condemned.
Additionally, the WPO is calling on the Education Ministry, the Teaching Service Commission, the Public Service Commission and the Public Service Ministry to review the con-
duct of the welfare official who is employed within the Child Welfare Department of the Education Ministry.
“She deliberately endangered a child with disability who was clearly frightened and in distress, and was begging to be removed from the location. She is unfit to be a mother and unfit to work with children. The WPO calls on all women to condemn this act and to join us in the call for her immediate dismissal from the Education Ministry as a Child Welfare Officer. WPO further calls on the Guyana Police Force to complete its investigation and institute charges immediately.”
Trial date set for trespassing case against DAX
Owner of DAX Contracting Services Incorporated, Faizal Mohamed, along with his family members on Thursday made another court appearance, this time at the Providence Magistrate’s Court, in relation to the case for trespassing that was earlier brought against them.
Mohamed, his wife Bibi Azeena, and children Shamshaud Nerissa and Ferzanna Alisa, while acting in their managerial capaci-
ty, consented to or connived to trespass upon land situated at Lot 55 and 57 Eccles Industrial Estate, property of Reeaz Trading Enterprises Limited.
When the matter was first called up at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, all four defendants had pleaded not guilty to the charges of willful trespass levied against them by businessman Reeaz Khan. They were all released on their own recognisance.
Faizal Mohamed had two
charges filed as against him and another two filed against the company.
According to the Police Prosecution’s case, DAX Contracting Services Incorporated unlawfully entered the land and remained there even after being asked to remove by the owner. On Thursday’s date, when the matter was called up at the Providence Magistrate’s Court, the presiding Magistrate set June 5 for the commencement of the trial.
The WPO condemned and called for the sacking of the Education Ministry welfare official who was captured on camera urinating on the flag before burning it
GPHC CEO Michael Khan
The Georgetown Hospital Maternity Ward
Freddie’s attacks on Swami Aksharnanda must be condemned
Dear Editor, Freddie’s attacks on Swami Aksharnanda must be condemned. It is interesting to note that Freddie does not refer to someone in the faiths as so called priest, so called father, so called parson, so called bishop, so called mulvi, so called imam, etc.
He finds Hindus easy target. And no religious figure from another faith has come out to condemn him. Worse, two newspapers facilitated the derogation of a Hindu leader without any regret.
Swami (in front of a person’s name) is used as a term of respectful address to someone who has achieved that status.
The female version is Swamini. It is a Sanskrit word that literally means “one who knows, who is master of himself or herself inner feelings and who has no worldly desires”.
A swami or swamini is an ascetic or yogi who has been initiated into the monastic order (like that of a Llama in Buddhism or Monk in Christianity or a Guru in Buddhism) founded by a revered religious teacher.
The practice began thousands of years ago in Hinduism as a mark of respect for outstanding religious figures who distinguished themselves in practicing the faith. The usage of the title Swami is also used for a religious guru who trains others to attain swami status.
To begin the process of becoming a swami, one must experience an inner feeling or transformation of self and have a calling. The person seeks guidance from a guru or satguru or teacher who happens to be a swami or outstanding religious leader.
To achieve the status of swami, he must study or to have the guidance of another swami, who determines whether one is ready for such a step in one’s life. It is similar to one becoming a priest in Catholicism.
In undergoing training and in becoming a swami, the person puts aside worldly interest and renounces desires. He acquires self-discipline as a key to his life-style and does not see people in terms of their gender. He acquires integrity believing only in an absolute god and gives up everything around him. He lives his life in the interest of others. A swami dedicates his life “to the Absolute Truth”, as Hinduism, and indeed other religions teach. He dedicates his life to “the ultimate wisdom” of life and of his surroundings to help others. A swami achieves sanyasi status; material things are not appealing to him.
He achieves the highest spiritual realisation in Hinduism, similar to that of a Pope or a Bishop, or Archbishop and serves others. He is not referred to as a so called “swami” – that
is disrespecting the person as Freddie Kissoon did to Aksharnanda.
The title of swami is conferred. It is not self-ascribed contrary to what Freddie feels (reveals his ignorance and lack of scholarly knowledge) as say one would call himself a historian like Freddie does even though he did not study history.
When a person becomes a swami or swamini, he (she) is conferred another name and the honorific title in front of it. When a Sannyasin (Swami) is initiated, the master gives him a spiritual name in Sanskrit.
Dr Odai Pal Singh became Swami Aksharnanda. The record would reveal that Prof Odai Pal was trained as a swami and conferred that status. Akshara is a Sanskrit root that means indestructible; Ananda means bliss.
Swami Aksharnanda was ordained into Sanyas in India directly after he completed his PhD. Swami received his PhD from University of Wisconsin, a top university in the United States of America; he served briefly as a Professor before committing to Guyana.
He renounced titles, wealth, progeny, etc. He never used “Dr” as Freddie fraudulently did before was outed by his PNC colleagues. Swami Aksharnanda is in the Saraswati lineage in the 10 order of Monks established by Adi Shankaracharya 1200 hundred years ago.
For the record, Odai Pal received BA and MS from Benares Hindu University, the Harvard of India. Devanand Bhagwan, the first time we met in Varansai, graciously took my wife and I on a tour of the campus a few years ago but we visited it several times before and after.
I gave a guest lecture a few years ago to group of scholars and students. And I have been invited to be a guest lecturer and have accepted the offer for January when I will be on teaching sabbatical.
It is extremely difficult to gain admission at BNU with few foreigners allowed entry; one must be an outstanding student. In addition to Odai Pal, several other Guyanese studied there including Dr Deonarine of Port Mourant as well as his nephew and niece from Albion, both of whom studied medicine. I contacted them when I first visited in 1985 to study Hinduism.
Most foreigners study medicine at BNU. The university accepts outstanding students; Freddie won’t be accepted.
Swami Aksharnanda is proficient in Sanskrit and Hindi. His expositions of the Bhagvad Gita are very profound. Like many Swamis he has chosen the Social Field as his Kshetra (literally field) –with particular emphasis in education, hence his involvement in running a school (SVN) on the West Coast, one of the best in the country.
I should note that Odai Pal, on his return from India, joined the WPA and was beaten by Burnham’s thugs. He had a close relationship with Eusi Kwayana, David Hinds, Bonita Harris (widow of Ronald Waddell), Karen De Souza, who surprisingly have not addressed Freddie’s charge of racism against Swamiji.
Odai Pal organised meetings for WPA in NY and participated in several seminars. He wrote numerous articles in Caribbean Daylight and for the WPA organs.
He organized rallies for Dr Rodney and WPA in Guyana. He supported Clive Thomas as Presidential Candidate. Surprisingly, Professor Nigel Westmaas and other WPA colleagues have not come out in his defence – clearly shows race trumps everything else.
The record would show when Freddie was studying on a Burnham scholarship in Canada, Odai Pal was leading the charge in Guyana against Burnhamism.
He was harassed, intimidated and brutalised by PNC thugs – never experienced by Freddie who was protected by Burnham. Also, when Swami was studying abroad, he assisted in the overseas struggle against Burhamism, something Freddie never did.
Vishnu Bisram
I fully support Ms Shah’s expressions
Dear Editor, I write to endorse the contents of Ryhaan Shah’s letter. As we celebrate 177 years of Indian arrival to this country, Indians who articulate their ethnic pride (while not denying the right of others to do so) are castigated to the ninth degree.
Simply look at the blogs associated with Ms Shah’s letter where the slogan “a vote for the PPP/C is a vote for racism and corruption” dominates the platform.
The electoral battle lines are clearly drawn, and, this election will do little to change previous electoral configurations when it comes to ethnic support,
largely because political leaders refuse to confront this anomaly in our body politic.
Suspicions among Indians are fuelled by the continued refusal of the PNC (APNU) to confront its past transgressions, and, in the absence of leadership and organisations that sincerely and frontally advocate for Indians in our plural society, the PPP/C, though not the ideal, represents the best choice for Indians.
Most Indians will hold their noses and look beyond the corruption issue, as they ask themselves which party best represents their secu -
rity and political interests. Others will do the same. In a post-election period, regardless of which party emerges victorious, we should strive to promote “Unity in Diversity”, as we seek to uphold our national motto of “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”.
In addition, Guyanese need to look towards a decentralisation political system, one that takes power away from the node in Georgetown and transfer meaningful power to local communities in the three counties.
Dr Baytoram Ramharack
Erroneous political advertisement
Dear Editor, I read a political ad by Clive Thomas, Co-leader of the WPA Party under the headline, “An appeal to all Guyanese”. Mr Thomas’s political advertisement is erroneous, seeking to misinform the Guyanese people about the Bai Shanlin Company on its ownership of forest lands in Guyana. On this basis, Mr Thomas has been reduced to a mere unprofessional and lackey of the PNC/APNUAFC coalition.
Thomas claims that the Bai Shanlin Company controls 960,000 hectares of forest in Guyana. This is nothing but an absolute lie. It only has legal access to 627,072 hectares through the follow-
ing: 344,849ha as State Forest Exploratory Permits (SFEPs), where an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), a Forest Inventory (FI) and a business plan have to be submitted to the satisfaction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and GFC before a Timber Sales Agreement (TSA) is granted, which allows for full scale harvesting in accordance with the GFC’s guidelines to be approved; 274,053ha as a Timber Sales Joint Venture Agreement; and 8,170ha as state forest permissions.
This has been widely publicised by the print and electronic media and Bai Shanlin was even written to in order to cor-
rect the erroneous claim that they have access to 960,000ha of forest. It must be noted as well that the forest granted to the company was done strictly in accordance with the Forestry Act 2009 and the exportation of logs is subjected to the national log export policy. Let me therefore appeal to the Guyanese people to ignore Thomas’s political ad since it is riddled with false assumptions and misinformation. But as Dr Walter Rodney said, those whom Burnham touched have turned into s*it. Let me inform Mr Thomas that come May 11 the PPP/C shall win the elections by a landslide.
Peter Persaud
Contradictory promises from APNU/AFC
Dear Editor,
It is just days before we vote for our next Government. But other than the fancy speeches of Nagamootoo, Ramjattan and Granger, has anyone read their manifesto? If you didn’t then, here is a glimpse into the promises of APNU/AFC.
APNU/AFC has verbally and on page 22 of their manifesto promised that all public servants will receive a 10 per cent salary increase.
Did you know that on page 25 of the same manifesto, APNU/AFC said that the
increase is not for all public servants, nor is it immediate? They said that any increase will be gradual and only the lowest paid public servant will receive a 10 per cent rise.
APNU/AFC promised to reduce the Berbice Bridge Toll in the first 100 days, but did you know that on page 23 of their manifesto, APNU/AFC says that it will reduce the toll only for passenger vehicles eventually to $500.
“Eventually” is not within the first 100 days and reading inbetween the lines all oth-
er forms of transportation using the bridge will have to pay the current prices. How is this friendly to businessmen?
How can they deliver this toll reduction when there was a public acknowledgement via social media of APNU
Candidate James Bond saying that the Berbice Bridge Toll cannot be reduced so easily, since it is a private company?
APNU and AFC have spent the last three years criticising and placing barricades to developing PPP/C projects in this country. But did you know
that their manifesto (pages 23 and 24) states that the promotion of Public Sector-Private Sector partnerships is necessary to ease the infrastructure financing burden required to accelerate the infrastructure development process?
These people are crazy –they criticised the first ever public-private-partnership in Guyana (the Berbice River Bridge), but yet they advocate its use?
APNU/AFC needs to get their story straight!!!!
Mahadeo Persaud
Coalition has already acknowledged they will not gain ground
Dear Editor,
As the race for the May 11 polls in its final stages, the Opposition coalition APNU/ AFC which is ‘leading’ from behind, has already acknowledged that there is no way they will be able to gain ground and win the political race through free, fair and peaceful balloting.
What they know for sure is that come May 12 when the election results will begin to be filtered in, and APNU/AFC is chasing from way behind, they will cause confusion in the streets of Georgetown and elsewhere around the country.
APNU/AFC has already started their dirty work destroying PPP/C elections para-
phernalia and intimidating its supporters in broad daylight without any hindrance from the law enforcement or anyone else.
These elements don’t have anything to loose and will stop at nothing when it comes to causing confusion. Such is the characteristic of APNU/ AFC destructive elements.
Granger and Nagamootoo are so much in love and might still be in their honeymoon stages, while letting their supporters wreak havoc around the country, burning PPP/C flags and even having a female supporter urinate in a cup, which is the PPP/C symbol.
If Granger and his new found bride Nagamootoo are
so confident that they will win the election, then they should make sure that the entire atmosphere leading up to and after the election, remains peaceful and conducive for a free, fair and peaceful election.
But because APNU/AFC’s writing is on the wall, they will continue to allow their thugs to intimidate PPP/C supporters.
However, their behaviour to subvert the polls on May 11 will not succeed as the majority of the Guyanese populace has showed their courage and determination to support the PPP/C come election day May 11, they will not allow a bunch of visionless people to take them backwards as they
had learnt that lesson under the dictatorship of the old PNC which now calling themselves APNU/AFC.
Guyanese must be vigilant and stand up and defend the progress gained over the years under the caring PPP/C Administration. We must not allow these people who are only concerned about grabbing power and will not pay emphasis on the development of Guyana to ruin our country once more.
Let May 11 be the day when Guyanese will shut the door on APNU/AFC who only want to stymie and undermine progress in Guyana.
Suresh Silas
Beacon Ministries holds exciting golf tournament
Fantastic rivalry and enjoyable competitiveness marked the third annual Beacon Ministries sponsored golf tournament last Saturday at the Lusignan Golf Club, as golfers vied for the 18 trophies provided for the six categories receiving prizes.
In fact, Captain Chatterpaul “Chen” Deo remarked that there were so many trophies, it would be good if the next year’s Beacon Ministries tournament is done over two days. Mike Mangal (66/9) won the 0-9 handicap, with
Patrick Prashad (70/9) second and Christine Sukhram (71/9) third. The 10-18 category saw Richard Haniff (65/18) taking the top spot, followed by Kalyan Tiwari (65/18) and Kishan Bacchus (66/17).
Rabindranauth “Pandit Ravi” Persaud (68/25) took top honours in the 19-38 handicap, Lochan Ramroop (68/28) and Shanella Webster (68/21) occupying second and third positions respectively.
Avinda Kishore with a distance of 260 yards won the Longest Drive contest, pipping Richard Haniff
(250 yards) and Jetendra Dhanpat (246 yards).
Sookram Deosarran was Nearest-to-the-Pin.
In his congratulatory remarks to the winners, Dr Philbert London, the founder and presiding head of Beacon Ministries, encouraged golfers to strive for the best performance.
He pointed out that the Gospel of Jesus Christ allows the individual to be involved in sport and other social activities, and offered the good news of hope and love for those who may have, through ignorance or personal experience, felt hopeless or rejected be-
cause of shortcomings in their life.
Concerning the prizes, he added, “We believe that those who do well should be rewarded and who knows, maybe someday Beacon Ministries will provide prizes for first to sixth places so that many more participants will be rewarded.”
Club President David Mohamad expressed gratitude to Dr London of Beacon Ministries for a well-coordinated tournament, and for the innovative Longest Drive and Nearest-to-the-Pin competitions.
John
Fernandes Insurance 2nd Division Men’s league…
All Greys leading after 1st half of league
The veteran side of exnational players All Greys, took the upstart defending champions Hikers to school on Sunday afternoon to remain unbeaten after the fifth round of matches in the John Fernandes Insurance Men’s Second Division League.
The action packed weekend started on Labour Day when All Greys struggled to get past an organised Saints side who played good disciplined hockey for the majority of the match before a moment of brilliance from striker Sheldon Corlette that gave All Greys the narrow victory.
Corlette picked up the ball near the top of the scoring area and pulled left to give himself just enough room to unleash a reverse tomahawk shot that looped over the keeper and ended up in the top right hand corner of the goal. GCC would then make light work of Old Fort, running away with a 4-0 victory.
On Saturday All Greys received a walkover from Old Fort before Hikers came roaring back from a 0-1 deficit to edge Saints 2-1, thanks to a Leon Bacchus goal in the final minute of the match.
Sunday’s opener between GCC and Saints saw another tactical battle between an organised Saints defence
and a creative GCC front six. It took an individual run from forward Stuart Gonsalves to unlock the Saints defence before Patrick Edghill tapped in at the last post in the dying minutes of the game to earn the victory for the Bourda side. The feature match of the weekend between points leaders Hikers and second place All Greys lived up to expectations. The game started as a cagey affair before All Greys went out to an early lead through midfielder Alan Fernandes in the fifth minute.
Hikers responded three minutes later through a Leon Bacchus equaliser. The first quarter would end 2-1 in favour of All Grey after a spectacular Gavin Hope, overhead deflection which beat an advancing Jason Hoyte. Attack after attack was turned back by a stout All Greys defense and, with Hikers growing increasingly desperate; All Greys took advantage and counter attacked with great efficiency, sealing the match in fourth quarter through another Alan Fernandes goal. With half of the league matches completed it’s All Greys who lead the way with 10 points, followed by Hikers on 9, GCC with 7, Saints with 3 and Old Fort yet to pick up a point.
Dr Philbert London (orange hat) shares a moment with the top performers, who proudly display their trophies after a successful day of golfing
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friday, May 8, 2015
REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO. IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (FA m I ly COU rT
D I v I SIO n) n O FH: 02336/2014
B ET w EEN DAAI w ANTI BUDHRAM (P ETITIO n E r) An D A r JOO n BUDH r A m (rESPO n DE n T) TO: A r JOO n BUDH r A m - ADD r ESS
UNKNOw N. TAKE NOTICE that on the 4th November, 2014 a Petition for divorce was filed against you by DAAIwANTI BUDHRAM in the Family Court of Trinidad & Tobago. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an order made on the 26th January 2015 the petitioner was directed to effect substituted service of her petition on you by this advertisement in a daily newspaper of general circulation in Guyana once weekly for two consecutive weeks AND THAT you be allowed fourteen (14) days after the date of the second advertisement in which to acknowledge the substituted service. If you desire to defend this action, you must state this within fourteen (14) days after the date of the second advertisement, either by letter, or by an Acknowledgement of Service (Form 5 - available at the Registry), which must be lodged at the Registry of the Family Court of Trinidad & Tobago, Nipdec House, No. 4, Cipriani Boulevard, Port-ofSpain (Tel. Number 223-1060; Fax. Number 624- 1306). You may also obtain copies of the petition and related documents at the court's Registry. TAKE NOTICE that the case is fixed for hearing on Monday _18th May 2015 at 11:15a.m (or a 15 minute directions hearing in Hearing Room No. 10 and IN DEFAULT of a letter or an Acknowledgement of Service, the court may proceed in your absence and may make any order it considers appropriate, including granting the divorce. Dated the 26thh January 2015. Magaret Sookraj-Goswami, Assistant Registrar Family Court of Trinidad and Tobago.
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Dhurup took 5-31 from six overs in a losing effort for Number 69 Red Rose. Below are the summarised scores from the games played.
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Clavern Beresford became the latest centurion in the 2015 New Building Society (NBS) Second Division 40over cricket competition in Berbice when he slammed 114 for Corriverton against Number 70 MYO in their recent encounter.
His knock, which included nine fours and eight sixes, and which together with 63 (7x4s, 3x6s) from Errol Byass, propelled Corriverton to 303-9 in 35 overs. The two added 130 for the second wicket. They came back with the ball and took two wickets each to restrict MYO to 190 all out in 30 overs.
Crabwood Creek Rising benefited from scores of 53 (3x4s, 4x6s) from Mahendra Bhola and 50 (4x4s) from Satesh Baldeo in a total of 282-8 in 35 overs against Number 72 All Stars, who could only respond with 99 all out in 21 overs.
Other batsmen scoring half-centuries were Dharamdeo Balgobin of GuySuCo Training Centre, Akash Persaud of Number 70 A, Sachin Ramrattan Number 69 Viking, Somesh Mangru of Kennard’s Memorial and Shabbir Khan of Number 71.
Off-spinner, Dhanesh
At Number 70: Corriverton beat Number 70 MYO by 113 runs. Corriverton 303-9 in 35 overs (Clavern Beresford 114, Errol Byass 63, Amzaan Appalsammy 32, Jameel Assad 4-63, Niazi Khan 2-50, Rajendra Deonarine 2-56) Number 70 MYO 190 in 30 overs (Jameel Assad 35, Fazir Ally 26, Eric Phillips 2-23, Clavern Beresford 2-35, Errol Byass 2-35).
At Number 72: Crabwood Creek Rising beat Number 72 All Stars by 183 runs. Crabwood Creek Rising 2828 in 35 overs (Mahendra Bhola 53, Satesh Baldeo 50, Darshan Challetar 30, Devendra Chandradat 28, Lionel Seegobin 27, Davanand Chatterpaul 3-40) Number 72 All Stars 99 in 21 overs (Devindra
Chandradat 2-6, Satesh Baldeo 2-21).
At Number 71: Number 71 beat Number 69 Red Rose by 75 runs. Number 71 made 188-8 in 30 overs (Shabbir Khan 63, Dhanesh Dhurup 5-31) Number 69 Red Rose 113 in 24 overs (Tariq Chaitram 26).
At Whim: Letter Kenny
Centre 117 in 24.3 overs (Dharamdeo Balgobin 59, Vinode Samaroo 3-26, Dave Peters 3-30, Jaipersaud Baijnauth 2-20) Letter Kenny Young Star 118-5 in 15.3 overs (Vinode Samaroo 41, Dave Peters 40, Akeem Bollers 2-30).
At Number 69: Number 69 Vikings beat Young Royals by six wickets. Young Royals 120 in 29 overs (Ravi Mohabir 40, Trishan Narinedat 3-21, Deraj Bramdit 3-14) Number 69 Vikings 122-4 in 18 overs (Sachin Ramrattan 51, Ravi Mohabir 2-18).
At Number 69: Number 70 A beat Springlands by 22 runs. Number 70 A 177 in 28.1 overs (Akash Persaud 68, Akram Razack 3-22, Trishan Ramdass 3-29, Nasrudeen Persaud 2-49) Springlands 155 in 34 overs (Akram Razack 45, Trishan Ramdass 29, Naeem Yacoob 2-24, Omesh Khemraj 2-28). At Bush Lot Farm: Kennard’s Memorial beat Kildonan by eight wickets. Kildonan 164-7 in 20 overs (Orin Jones 45, Chunnilall Mankarran 4-53, Karamchand Ramnarine 2-26, Somesh Mangroo 2-26). Kennard’s Memorial 165-2 in 14.1 overs (Somesh Mangroo 50*, Seeraj Seelall 40).
Messi stars as Barca beat Bayern
Lionel Messi scored twice as Barcelona struck three times in the final 13 minutes of the first leg to whisk their Champions League semifinal tie away from a stubborn Bayern Munich side. The hosts seemed set for a frustrating night before Messi fired a low shot home
from the edge of the area.
Three minutes later he skipped past Jerome Boateng and dinked home coolly.
Led by ex-Barca boss Pep Guardiola, Bayern pushed for an away goal and were punished again as Neymar raced clear.
Until the devastating
conclusion, the Germans had produced an excellent tactical display.
Stripped of the twin attacking threats of the injured Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben, they frustrated the hosts for large periods and could have had a goal of their own had Robert Lewandowski connected cleanly with Thomas Muller’s cross.
But while Guardiola’s four trophy-filled years at the Nou Camp had been based on monopolising possession and patient buildup, the Barcelona that has emerged in his absence is a more dynamic animal.
Their attacking trio of Luis Suarez, Messi and Neymar - while never entirely shackled - had seemed well-guarded after an open initial 15 minutes, but they burst into life at the end. (BBC Sport)
VeHICleS FOR SAle
CAR RenTAlS
Mahendra Bhola
Errol Byass
Satesh Baldeo
Lionel Messi was on target twice
GABA’s “King of the Hard Court” tournament... Guardians, Ravens pick up big wins
Dynas Ravens easily defeated West Side Warriors with a 64-45 win when the first division section of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) ‘King of the Hard Court’ Championship continued on Wednesday at the Burnham Court, Carmichael Street, Georgetown.
Ravens were always in control of the game as they dictated the pace of the ball game as well as limiting their turnovers. While the Warriors played strong for much of the first half, it was until mid way through the third quarter that the Ravens really pulled away from the visiting side.
Marlon Rodrigues was the
game’s leading scorer with 20 points while Ryan Gullen, Tyrone Hamid and Dominic Vincente, each score eight points.
Ralph Browne led the losers with 17 points while Devon Murray had 12 points in the losing effort.
Meanwhile, in the opening game of the night, Plaisance Guardians routed the University of Guyana (UG) Trojans 85-57 with Nikkoloi Smith top scoring with a game high 34 points while Ron Campbell supported with 17 points.
Leading the UG side with 20 points was Emmanuel Archibald while Quacey Easton chipped in with 12 points.
Trailing by one points af -
ter a 19-18 opening period, Guardians would outscore the Trojans 21-8 to take a commanding 39-27 lead into the half time break and never relinquished their grip on the game.
Action in the tournament is slated to continue at the same venue today with three scheduled games.
In the opening matchup at 18:00h, Melanie Patriots will faceoff with Knights in an U-23 matchup while Plaisance Guardians will tackle Buxton in the second fixture of the division at 20:00h.
The final matchup of the card will witness Trinity Grid Pacesetters tackling Eagles from 22:00h in an Open Division showdown
Ryan Gullen
Nikkoloi Smith
BCB calls 36 for senior trials
The senior selection panel of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) recently announced two sets of players to participate in two one-day trial matches and one three-day trial game to be played at the Albion Sports Complex ground, East Berbice.
The two 50-over trials will be played today and Saturday from 09:00h. The players are asked to report to the ground at 08:00h sharp. The three-day trial game will begin on May 12.
Berbice A comprises: Assad Fudadin (Captain), Kandasammy Surujnarine, Anthony D’Andrade, David Latchaya, Royston Crandon,
Rajiv Ivan, Jason Sinclair, Sharaz Ramcharran, Kevon Jawahir, Gudakesh Motie, Krishendat Ramoo, Raun Johnson, Yugendra Harrinarine, Suresh Dhanai, Joshua Ramsammy, Romario Shepherd, Devendra Bishoo and Narsingh Deonarine.
Berbice B comprises: Anthony Bramble (Captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Seon Hetmyer, Akshay Homraj, Jonathon Foo, Delbert Hicks, Joemal LaFleur, Shawn Perriera, Waqar Hassan, Steve Latcha, Keon Joseph, Niall Smith, Keyron Fraser, Kevin Ramdeen, Devon Clements, Veerasammy Permaul, Parmanand Ramdhan and Balchand Baldeo.
QC to host under-15 tournaments on Saturday
QC to host U-15 tournaments on Saturday Queen’s College will be hosting two under-15 tournaments on Saturday at the Education Ministry ground.
With competition expected to start from 09:00h, there will be a five-a-side small goal football tourna-
MPG Packaging Plant Basketball tournament… Black Sharks rout Hardliners 75-43
Fyrish Black Sharks have recorded the latest win in the MPG Packaging Plant basketball tournament for teams in Berbice, when they defeated Ithica Hardliners 75-43 on Sunday in Ithaca, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
The Sharks, who looked hungry from the start of the game, recorded their first win in the tournament and never allowed the home team to gain the advantage in the game.
At the end of the first quarter they led 24-7 and extended that lead to 38-15 at the half time mark. In the next quarter the Sharks recorded 20 points while restricting the Hardliners to 12.
Linden Joseph led the way with 24 points and received good support from Elsie Douglas with 14 points and Saybrian Fortune with eight points.
For the Hardliners, Kesto Sinclair scored 13 points and Kevin Perky 10
in the losing effort.
The competition which is the first to be sponsored by MPG Packaging Plant is being organised by Vibert Garnett.
On Sunday action will continue at the Ithica Court when Hopetown Stealers seek to register their first win when they take on Canje Knights which have already qualified for the semifinals. A win for Hopetown will require a playoff between Rose Hall Jammers and Hopetown Stealers.
ment for under-15 school teams as well as area teams.
The second tournament of the day will be a four-aside softball cricket tournament for the same category of players.
Trophy and medals will be up for grabs for the top teams and individual performances in each tournament.
from back page
Narine’s action...
This analysis has reconfirmed the conclusion of the first Official Assessment by the Committee - namely that the remodelled action for the off-spinner does not contravene Law 24.2 (as read with Law 24.3).
“The Committee, however, has drawn Mr. Narine’s attention to paragraph 4.9 of the IPL Suspected Illegal Bowling Action Policy. Any further report for a suspected illegal bowling action during the course of this season will automatically mean that Mr. Narine is banned from bowling for the rest of the season.”
After the match between Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 22, the on-field officials reported a number of Narine’s deliveries as suspect. Narine underwent fresh tests immediately and was cleared to bowl all his deliveries expect the offbreak, which was deemed illegal. On April 29, Narine underwent a retest on his offbreak, which was banned by the BCCI, and was cleared on the evening of May 6. (Cricinfo)
Assad Fudadin Narsingh Deonarine
Devendra Bishoo
Veerasammy Permaul
Part of the action on Sunday between the Black Sharks and Ithaca
Crown Mining Supplies 2nd golf tourney set for Saturday
Crown Mining Supplies has renewed its support for the game of golf by sponsoring exclu-
sively Saturday’s highly anticipated tournament under its newly acquired brand of Parsun outboard engines.
“We want
The tournament, now in its second year, will take the Medal Play format, and already close to four dozen
players have signed up to compete for top honours at the Lusignan Golf Course, East Coast Demerara.
CPL to be bigger than IPL” – Carl Hooper
I’m very excited. The draft was three months ago now and time is dragging on. We’ve still got another few weeks before we get rolling, but I’m really looking forward to it.
“It’s gonna be a great competition, even better than last year with the quality of players in the CPL this year.
“Spend the morning at the beach and then watch a fantastic game of cricket... What’s not to love?!” - Carl Hooper
“We want to make this competition as big as the IPL [Indian Premier League], if not bigger.
“The only T20 event that falls within the ICC is the IPL, so everyone is available for that. One of the hardest things we have to contend with, even though we have a high quality of players registered this year, is that we’d like to see some Indian players, for example, coming here and getting involved.
“I think it’s important to get every nation involved in the CPL - I want players from every country who are great at Twenty20 to come and play.
“The destination is fantastic. You’re coming somewhere where you can spend the morning at the beach and then watch a fantastic game of cricket later. There’s a party atmosphere, great food, great entertainment... What’s not to love?! It’s a work in progress, but they’re well on their way to making it a massive tournament.
“It’s not a surprise to me how big the
tournament has got quite quickly. I was with Antigua last year and they had four Australians, and they all loved it. On the flight home to Australia they were saying they hoped they’d come back this year because they had such a good time.
“The islands are a fantastic destination, for players and for fans.
“The atmosphere is electric. Chris Gayle smashing the ball out of the park under lights - that’s fun, right?!” - Carl
Hooper
“The CPL stands up very well to the IPL and the Big Bash, very well indeed. I’ve been watching the Big Bash for a few years now and the quality of
the cricket is very good, but most of the people who go to the games are localthey’re Aussies.
“But given where the islands are in the Caribbean, you’ve got North America so close by, and Indians and Pakistanis coming along... Last year I saw two blokes I’d met in India years ago, and they’d just come down to watch some cricket. So the location is perfectit’s even only an 8-hour flight from the UK, and it’s in UK summer, so it’s perfect for a holiday.
“The atmosphere last year was electric. Day-night games in my home country Guyana... It was like a party atmosphere. There’s quality cricket and great atmosphere. Those two things make it. The two go hand-in-hand. Chris Gayle smashing the ball out of the park under lights - that’s fun, right?! I sit on the sidelines and I get excited. I wish I was playing!”
Carl Hooper’s three to watch: Chris Gayle. He’s explosive, and he’s been very instrumental in Jamaica’s success Sunil Narine. He’s with us, Guyana, so I’m probably being a bit biased! I know he’s had some bowling problems, but I’ll keep my fingers crossed he’ll be ok Jacques Kallis. He might be a bit long in the tooth at 40, but he’s still a quality cricketer and he’ll do well for Trinidad. (CPL.com)
President of the Lusignan Golf Club, David Mohamad, during a simple ceremony at Crown Mining Supplies location in Campbellville on Thursday afternoon, said the club is pleased to once again welcome the company onboard.
He said all systems are in place for an exciting day of rivalry among the country’s premier golfers. Mohamad also used the opportunity to congratulate Crown Mining Supplies on becoming the sole distributor of Parsun outboard engines in Guyana, under which brand the tournament will be sponsored.
He added that the company will embark on a vigorous promotional campaign to enlighten the public about the Parsun line of outboard engines, and branding this weekend’s competition is a step in that direction.
The tournament will tee off at 12:00h, and Mohamad is urging followers of the sport to come out and witness the action live.
He urged Guyanese to support the company, which in turn will help the entity to maintain its sponsorship of the tournament. Bhisham Persaud, a Director of Crown Mining Supplies, who presented the sponsorship cheque and several trophies to Mohamad, said the establishment is pleased to be associated with sport generally, and golf in particular.
Narine’s action cleared once again
West Indies and Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Sunil Narine has been cleared to bowl once again by the BCCI’s Suspect Bowling Action Committee but he has been given a
modelled action.
“In its decision on 28 April 2015 to ban Mr Narine from bowling off-spinners in the IPL, the BCCI Suspect Bowling Action Committee noted that the player could request a further
“final warning”. Narine’s name has been taken off the list of bowlers with suspect actions but he was informed that another transgression would result in him being banned for this IPL season. It is understood Narine was delivering the offbreak with a flex in his elbow, which meant he was going back to the old action that had been reported during the 2014 Champions LeagueTwenty20. The review committee wanted him to be consistent with his re-
Official Assessment by the Committee,” the BCCI said in a release. “This request was received and accordingly the player underwent a third biomechanical analysis of his action at the ICC and BCCI accredited Sri Ramachandra Arthroscopy and Sports Sciences Centre (SRASSC) in Chennaithis time for his remodelled action (i.e. the one that had been cleared by the Committee immediately before the IPL season).
turn to page 31
Bhisham Persaud (second left), a Director of Crown Mining Supplies, presents the sponsorship package and trophies to Lusignan Golf Club President David Mohamed while two representatives of the entity proudly showcase the Parsun outboard engines
