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Issue No. 3149

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Saturday, March 11, 2017

PRICE

Pradoville 2 investigations

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Jagdeo should not have been arrested, detained – Granger

Pradoville 2

NCN tower had to be moved to facilitate airport expansion – official confirms

P11

Page 3

…says SOCU should have made other arrangements to question him

4 high-powered rifles found within 24 hours

Teenager killed in EBE accident Page 16

Page 7

Alleged P16 execution plot thwarted

by Police

―3 in custody

Pradoville 2 investigations

Region 2 PPP supporters P12 condemn SOCU’s actions …say arrest of leaders seek to instil fear, intimidation

Flood warning in effect for low-lying P16 areas

Schools in and around the capital city and countrywide on Friday ensured that their students are culturally inclined and the Hindu festival of colour (Holi) is alive, as the Hindu community observes the festival on Sunday. Students of Queens Collage were not left out of the celebration as coloured powders filled the air (Marceano Narine photo)

ANSA McAL sole sourcing

President says “disciplinary actions” for persons at fault

Page 9

Harmon questions Jagdeo’s immunity

…says presidential immunity likely for Page 7 constitutional reform

Transparency Institute reaches out to Linden municipality, P17 RDC

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saturDAY, march 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, March 11 – a night retraction at 04:30h and a day retraction at 14:30h-16:00h and Sunday, March 12 – a night retraction at 05:00h and a day retraction at 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, March 11 – 15:35h-17:05h and Sunday, March 12 – 16:15h-17:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Heavy to light rain showers with light cloud cover can be expected throughout the day, while partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 6.70 metres.

High Tide: 03:50h and 16:07h reaching maximum heights of 2.56 metres and 2.65 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:42h and 22:03h reaching minimum heights of 0.63 metre and 0.55 metre respectively.

Pradoville 2 investigations

Jagdeo should not have been arrested, detained – Granger – says SOCU should have made other arrangements to question him

D

ays after former President and current Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had been arrested and detained at the Headquarters of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) – a department of the Guyana Police Force – Head of State, President David Granger, declared that the former Guyanese Leader should not have been treated the way he was.

President Granger’s sentiments were first expressed on Wednesday, when he meet with the Opposition Leader for their second round of consultations on the appointment of a Chairman for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

According to Opposition

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Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

Member of Parliament and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, who had accompanied Jagdeo to the meeting, the President was apologetic, claiming that he was unaware of the incidents, and that it was Minister of State Joseph Harmon who had drawn it to his attention. Nandlall noted that the Head of State had added: “Former Presidents should be treated with dignity”, and had declared his recognition that governments change.

Speaking on the weekly televised programme The Public Interest, which was aired on Friday evening, the Head of State further pointed out that while he would not interfere with the work of the Guyana Police Force, he believes that Jagdeo’s

Former President and now Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo (right) leaving CID headquarters last Tuesday in the company of Attorney Sanjeev Datadin

“personal arrest” was unjustified.

“We are speaking about an ex-President.

We’re speaking about somebody who (had) enjoyed the confidence of the (Guyanese) people for 12 years, and I believe that his involvement in the matter under investigation did not warrant his going to the office. A decision could have been taken at the level of the Guyana Police Force…

So, in my view, some other way could have been used to determine whether his presence at the headquarters was necessary,” Granger stated.

Jagdeo and former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, were arrested on Tuesday last, while several other former Government Ministers under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration were detained by SOCU officials who are probing misappropriation of State assets. The arrest and detention was in connection with an ongoing probe into the acquisition of lands at Pradoville 2, among other things.

Expressing the view that certain Government ministers may be directing the activities of SOCU officers, the Leader of the Opposition revealed that the President had promised to “personally inquire into the incident.”

However, asked about this development during his televised programme, the Guyanese Leader explained that while he regrets the way the former President had

been treated, he would not be interfering with the work of SOCU. Moreover, Granger pointed out that the Guyana Police Force has the right to invite people of any rank to go to SOCU headquarters during an investigation, and he added that it is not possible for SOCU to visit every single former Minister; but he maintained that an exception could have been made in the case of Jagdeo.

“I think they acted properly, generally speaking, with regards to the other ministers; but I do feel that at the level of (the former) Head of State, the matter could have been handled differently…The Police must be allowed to do their job, and if their duties require them to invite persons who are accused of certain offences or who have information to provide, I think they should be allowed to do that without interference. I did not interfere, and I will not interfere with the investigations; but it’s impossible for SOCU to go around the country trying to have private interviews because of the perceived rank of the persons,” President Granger asserted.

SOCU has, over the last few days, detained several former prominent Government officials, including former Prime Minister and President, Samuel Hinds. Former Ministers Priya Manickchand, Irfaan Ali, Clement Rohee, Robert Persaud and Dr Jennifer Westford are also among others who have been detained

in connection with their role in the Pradoville 2 scheme.

The reason these persons are being questioned is because they purchased property at the Sparendaam seawall area (ECD) that is commonly known as “Pradoville 2”.

The current Administration contends that the transaction is a criminal act because of the belief that the land was sold below market value. However, the PPP had argued that subsidised housing has always been a part of the legacy of the People’s Progressive Party, and that countless Guyanese have benefited from lands sold below market value.

In fact, Nandlall has been recently quoted as saying:

President David Granger

“Every single house lot in this country was distributed way below the market price: $50,000 for a land in Mon Repos, $200,000 in Eccles…

Is that the value of the house lot? So let us not get carried away and become victims of the propaganda.”

The President’s apologetic sentiments come on the heels of a question posed

by Acting Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine in regard to whether the former Government ministers and former President Bharrat Jagdeo are about the law. He is quoted in sections of the media as saying, “Are they above the law? Why can’t they be questioned if SOCU is carrying out an investigation?” Ramnarine had thereafter excused himself to attend a meeting.

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

CPL making dreams come true for affiliation players

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he biggest party in sport is a reflection of the culture and joie de vivre that emanates from the Caribbean spirit, one which is all about opportunities and chances.

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL), now in its fifth season, has made some tremendous strides in setting the platform for players who are from the International Cricket Council (ICC) affiliate countries, having established a tradition of drafting players from the countries.

T20 cricket, and by extension franchise cricket, has become the benchmark by which players market themselves to be snatched up by the big name teams. We see the money being poured into the sport, we see the atmosphere of a world cup set-up all being infused into one big extravaganza; however, the CPL was the first tournament to include players who seldom get a chance to show their skills and earn some big money.

In the North American region, there has been a steady crop of young vibrant players who have adopted cricket as their main sport; and with the expansion of CPL to Florida, USA back in 2016, it can be expected that more talents from this region will be making an impact in the CPL. We have already seen the likes of Nikhail Dutta and Steven Taylor lighting up the CPL, as well as Timroy Allen, Nitish Kumar, Ali Khan and Hamza Tariq all being purchased for various franchises.

Like Canada and USA, Afghanistan are fairly newcomers to the sport, but have shocked a number of teams who have been in the sport for decades, such as Ireland and Zimbabwe.

Afghan players showcase themselves, and were snatched up by the CPL, arguably the only franchise in the world that gives them a chance to be a part of this type of excitement.

Young Rashid Khan was drafted over to the Guyana Amazon Warriors for the 2017 edition, while Mohammed Nabi created history as the first Afghan player to be purchased, as he will make his debut for the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots.

Timil Patel was also taken by the St. Lucia Stars, and Akeem makes his way to the Barbados Tridents.

Not surprisingly, the affiliate players have all expressed surprise at being purchased by the respective franchises.

While these affiliate nations may not seem to be what selectors look for in the other leagues, but the CPL has provided hope for them. In turn, these players are providing hope for other players from countries who are less recognized in the cricketing realm.

In the 2017 draft, we saw a total of 278 players heading into the action, the most by any season to date.

In the mix with the 278 players, we saw nine players coming from affiliate nations joining the bunch, including Zishawn Querishi (USA), Sufyan Mehmood (Oman), Rizwan Cheema and Ruvindu Gunasekera (Canada), Nawroz Mangal, Asghar Stanikzai and Najibullah Zadran (Afganistan).

On the other hand, CPL is creating an opportunity for players who are often sidelined from the action of the other tournaments, yet come to the CPL and star in some charismatic victories and cameos.

We see the international attraction of CPL drawing players, who have become like family in the Caribbean culture; consequently, there were 48 players from Pakistan, four from Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, 19 from Sri Lanka, 16 from South Africa and 17 from New Zealand, all in the CPL draft.

Based on the exposure these talents have in the CPL, it can only better the sport in their developing countries, as the players are afforded the opportunity to rub shoulders and train with the likes of some high-calibre players as Chris Gayle, Keiron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Martin Guptil, AB de Villiers, all players who have mastered their trade.

Making an early prediction, should these players be given the chance to take to the field come August-September, they will be taking the chance with both hands and adding to the pomp and flair that the biggest party in sport has become world renowned for over its five-year life.

As we look to the future, the number of small nation players will definitely be on the rise as more and more players look to exploit the benefits of having the CPL as a training ground, and CPL looks to continue to extend the Caribbean culture of accepting, creating opportunity, and fostering development of each other.

Dancers performing a cultural piece to mark the centenary anniversary of the abolition of indentureship of East Indians in Guyana, held at the Indian Monument Gardens in Georgetown, on Thursday evening (Carl Croker photo)

Problems with GuySuCo due to bad management Dear Editor, Finance Minister Winston Jordan, while speaking about the decline of the economy, stated that we have to do more manufacturing. He was at the time speaking about adding value to our raw materials and creating wealth.

Mr. Jordan has indeed made a good case for not closing or downsizing the sugar industry. This industry is best placed to do a lot more in the manufacturing sector. There are already billions of dollars sunk into it, and its raw materials are renewable resources.

This is the time to really transform the industry into a modern complex, producing many different products, adding value and creating wealth. This is not the time to contract, but to expand the industry and allow it to reach new heights.

After all, the sugar industry experienced many crises throughout its history, and it has always risen to the challenge each time, increasing production. This time should be no different.

With little investment from Government, or with

private investors in joint ventures, GuySuCo can produce and add great value to many of what is now produced. A joint venture in a refinery would be a sound investment. After all, the Caribbean has a market for more than two hundred thousand tons of refined sugar. GuySuCo can easily supply the bulk of that.

GuySuCo’s Skeldon Estate is already producing electricity with the use of bagasse. This could be hugely profitable, and more estates could also do likewise.

It is apposite to note that Barbados has kept part of its sugar industry going mainly because of its co-generation of electricity.

The industry can produce a host of other products that would have ready markets.

Many of these have been spoken about before. Fuel alcohol can be produced with not much investment and without affecting the operations of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL); another distillery can be very profitable.

Paper products such as cardboard, writing and printing paper, etc are only a few of the products that

could also be manufactured.

These items are being produced by the sugar industries in many countries, including India, Cuba, Brazil, etc.

In adding value and creating other commodities, we would be enhancing our wealth generally.

It should be pointed out that Cuba developed its pharmaceutical sector on the basis of the sugar industry.

A lot of the problems with GuySuCo are due to bad management. The fields, which are most important in the production of sugar, are being terribly mismanaged.

This is evident in the low level of yields, which leads to low production.

We can recall that, in 2015, the industry showed clear signs of a turnaround.

Indeed, so strong were the signals that the APNU+AFC Administration claimed it as one of its successes.

That came about because the then Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Raj Singh, had paid close attention to both fields and factories. In the fields, he was even moving to bring down costs by using

liquid fertilizers; and he implemented many other innovations that would save millions of dollars. The factories performed well because of their timely maintenance.

That is why 2015 was so successful.

With lack of cheap energy and the killing of the Amaila Falls Hydro Project by the APNU+AFC Administration, sugar offers the best opportunities for manufacturing. If Mr. Jordan is serious, if he is speaking on behalf of the regime, then he should urge that the decision to close the industry, or a large part of it, be reviewed. At this time, when workers not only in the sugar industry but also in forestry, communication and mining are losing their jobs, this could absorb that labour force while saving the jobs of the workers on the estates Sugar can still be the saviour.

Sincerely, Donald Ramotar Former President

The parking meter confusion Dear Editor, There are so many Caribbean countries – each made up of more than one million people – that can fit into our Dadanawah Ranch in the Rupununi, and none of them has any parking meters. I have been

travelling to Boa Vista in Brazil for over 40 years; it is eighty-three thousand square miles, has less than one million people, and one cannot find parking space there.

Guyana is defending the installation of parking me-

ters by saying it will bring economic benefits to enhance development. I am hard pressed to believe that some of our leaders and policy makers have studied economics, even in Sunday school. How can economic benefits enhance

Georgetown when eighty percent of the total money collected from our tax payers for parking is going into the pockets of a foreign company which cares nothing about our city, country or people? turn to page page 5

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Strenuously objecting Granger has disappointed to intention of many Guyanese Lands Commission Dear Editor, We, the undersigned organisations, write to express our deep concern and opposition to recently disclosed information pertaining to the proposed creation of a ‘Lands Commission’ or ‘Land and Life Commission’. From various public pronouncements, and as part of the stakeholder interest participating in meetings of the Amerindian Land Titling Project Board, we understand that this proposed commission may focus on Indigenous peoples’ land rights, and would likely “address issues of land extension in Indigenous communities and ancestral lands in coastal communities” . We also learned, via the Government Information Agency and through a 20th February 2017 news bulletin, that the terms of reference of this commission are almost completed, and that a draft was shared with various Government Ministries and State Agencies in November 2016.

To be clear, we strenuously object to any suggestion that the commission address both “land extension” for Indigenous communities and “ancestral lands in coastal communities.” These issues are not connected, nor should they be; and we will not accept their linkage in any commission or otherwise. We see no basis for any link between these disparate issues, and consider that the announced course would only result in further delay on desperately needed action on Indigenous land rights.

If the Government is of the view that the concept of “ancestral lands in coastal communities” warrants attention, this can and must be done separately from the actions it has promised and is obligated to undertake with respect to Indigenous lands.

Moreover, we stress that there has been no attempt to secure the participation of

Indigenous peoples and organisations in this proposed commission or in its terms of reference.

Indigenous peoples have been calling for an Indigenous Lands Commission for some time now, and have said that such a commission must be established with the participation of its peoples from the very inception. Any such participation must be done at the earliest stages of the development of any plan or proposal that may affect Indigenous peoples’ rights.

This has not occurred.

The vague public statements made in the recent past about plans to establish a commission do not constitute even basic consultation, as they provide no information on which Indigenous peoples can assess the necessity, utility, or potential effectiveness of such a commission as a mechanism to fairly resolve outstanding land tenure rights.

There also has thus far been no attempt to discuss what plans may exist to realize Indigenous peoples’ participation moving forward.

This substantial deficiency, which violates a basic tenet of our constitutional democracy and human right, requires immediate correction.

To its credit, Government had previously stated its intention to resolve Indigenous land tenure rights finally and fairly, and to do so in accordance with the State’s commitments under international human rights law.

From our perspective, this must be the primary and overriding purpose of any lands commission that may be established. We fully endorse and support any effort that is designed and aimed at achieving this end.

Conversely, we will oppose any efforts that are not so designed and directed.

While there are defects in the Amerindian Act relative to Indigenous peoples’ internationally protected rights – defects that the Government

has committed to correct – the Act nonetheless contains a procedure for receiving, assessing, and deciding on title or extension applications. The pending adoption and implementation of the Guideline developed through the Representative Platform under the ALT Project is an important step forward in this process, and we support this action. We have no doubt that the MIPA – and other State agencies – must build capacity to effectively comply with its statutory duties and the State’s obligations pertaining to Indigenous peoples’ rights.

Likewise, capacity within and coordination among different ministries and agencies need to be improved.

This especially includes developing collaborative arrangements to enhance effectiveness; to weigh and resolve competing rights or interests in land; and to ensure that the titling of Indigenous lands is facilitated, not hindered by contradictory policies or actions (e.g., precipitous grants of mining permits or concessions). We strongly urge that this should be the focus of our collective efforts, not misdirected claims about where authority may reside or inappropriate and opaque attempts to join distinct issues (i.e., in the proposed commission) that would only cause further delay and confusion.

Yours respectfully, Earl Thomas, Secretary, Amerindian Peoples Association Mary Valenzuela, Chief, Guyanese Organisation of Indigenous Peoples Peter Persaud, The Amerindian Action Movement Nicholas Fredericks, South Central Peoples Development Association Ashton Simon, National Amerindian Development Foundation

Dear Editor, I read in the print media that President Granger was warning about the destructive nature of some ‘restless, provocative’ calls from society. The man has not grasped that the PNCled coalition got into power only because the allegations of PPP corruption and human rights abuses had become more than Guyanese could take. Knowing the inherently racist nature of the PNC – it being an Africanbased political party whose constituents were taught fear of Indo-Guyanese by the PNC’s leaders over the years – the Coalition had to be ‘constructed’ to generate mass appeal, to attract

Indians also.

The hope that the PNC had learnt from history and would change and treat Indo-Guyanese more equitably has been lost with the treatment meted out to sugar workers, among other issues. The fact is: the PNC has lived up to its racist, socially destructive political thinking of promoting African Guyanese while actively retarding IndoGuyanese economically.

This charge also applies to the PPP, and underlies why Guyanese need to form new political parties to push Guyana forward. Guyanese have three years to get prepared to ‘free’ themselves again, or lose another eight

years of their future to our racist politics.

Granger has disappointed many Guyanese. As has already been observed in the press, Granger has shown himself to be wholly lacking in vision, political perspective, and leadership skills necessary to move his party away from its self-destructive politics, which is itself necessary for forcing political and social change at the national level. The question is: who next should be put as our president? Where are our political leaders?

Yours faithfully, Lance Cumberbatch

The parking meter...

I do not believe that parking meters can ever enhance Georgetown.

Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons.

A person who wants to go into a commercial bank in Georgetown would pay $200 for one hour of parking time, thinking that is enough time.

When he enters the bank, he is faced with a very long line.

He joins the line, hoping to finish in time. Unfortunately, he spends some more time to complete his business, all this time in deep stress about parking meters. When he comes out, he finds his vehicle clamped, so he is faced with more stress; he has to get another vehicle, or call a taxi to take him to the competent authority, where he will pay a hefty fine, get a release for his vehicle, and get another taxi to take him back to his vehicle. That is what I call a total waste of productive time, a

waste of money, and a bundle of stress.

PRIVATE PAY PARKS: An attendant is present. You leave your car, the time is checked. When you return, your vehicle is safe, you pay on the spot for the time your car was left in the park; you drive away and go about your business immediately. No stress, and no waste of money or time.

FIXED PAY PARKING: For many years during the PPP rule, we paid $200 to park our vehicles at the Timehri airport park. During the last twenty months, there has been an increase by one hundred and fifty percent.

No one complained, you wait at the airport until your family or friends arrive, you drive away; no clamping, no fines, no waste of time.

Remember that shortly after the 2015 elections, we were asked to pay 100% in-

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crease on fitness and licence to use our roads; not to mention the many millions of dollars Government is collecting on import duties and taxes on every vehicle, except for a few special people. Also, taxes are collected on every gallon of fuel consumed.

My dear leaders and councillors, my advice to you is to tighten your belts, cut your losses, and send those parking meters back where they came from before it’s too late. Our people seem to be very desperate in defending their rights.

Sincerely, Ed Singh Lethem

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Foundation

BY ANGELA JANOVSKY

L

istening and reading have two different origins but are closely linked in learning. Watch this video lesson to learn the relationship between the two and how one depends on the other as a child learns language.

Listening and reading

As a child grows, two important skills he develops are listening and reading. Listening skills appear first, as a child learns to speak by imitating the sounds of the people around him. In general, in early life, listening comprehension, which is ‘understanding the meaning of spoken words’, is distinct from reading comprehension, which is ‘understanding the meaning of written words.’ However, the difference between the two dissipates as the child ages.

In simple terms, this means that listening comprehension is much more important until the child learns to read more complex material efficiently. At that point, listening comprehension and reading comprehension are so closely related, there is little difference.

Because of this, in this lesson, we will focus on the early years of a child’s life and how listening and reading comprehension develop and are interlinked.

Learning to listen

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Listening comprehension must develop first in life. As a child, you hear people around you speaking and learn to imitate the sounds. This is why where one grows up during the years of language development is so important.

For example, if you are in England, you will learn to imitate an English accent as opposed to an American one. Each child must listen to sounds of a lan-

guage, not only to learn to reproduce those sounds and communicate, but later on, when learning to read, to associate those sounds to different letters and words.

For most children, babbling begins between three and six months old. Babbling in this context happens when the child begins to experiment with making sounds, but none of which are actual words. This stage shows the how a child’s listening skills are beginning to develop.

By 18 to 24 months of age, the child will usually be able to string two words together. This is the stage where listening comprehension really begins because the sounds will begin to be associated with meaning. This occurs through p h o nology, which is ‘the system of using com-

starting. Children at this age usually have been exposed to the letters of the alphabet, and the beginning of associating a sound with a letter will be seen. During kindergarten, those phonemes begin to be associated with the corresponding letters, which is known as decoding. For example, the ‘SPR’ in ‘spring’ is one phoneme used in English. Children will begin to associate that sound with those letters.

Furthermore, children will learn simple combinations of letters to make words. This process shows how listening comprehension is the foundation for reading comprehension.

As reading skills develop, actual reading comprehension begins to occur during first and second grade.

Basically, this means the child can decrease the amount of time spent decoding a word and comprehend what the written words communicate at a faster rate. At this point, listening comprehension is still years ahead of reading comprehension, but this does not last.

Narrowing the gap

binations of sounds for communication.’ Children will begin to use phonemes, which are ‘a unit of sound’, and combine them to make meaning. For example, a child will learn that saying ‘Momma up’ will mean he will be picked up by his mother. By saying this, the child is constructing meaning using several phonemes. Next, we will see how letters will represent phonemes, which is the beginning of reading.

Learning to read

After this point, listening comprehension skyrockets and reading is just

At the years of school go on from here, the gap between listening and reading comprehension begins to disappear.

This is because reading comprehension enhances at a rapid pace. During this time, the child develops morphology, which is the system of combining word parts to make written communication.

A morpheme is a unit of meaning in a word. For instance, the word ‘act’ is a whole word but also one morpheme. If you add another morpheme, like ‘or’ to it, it becomes ‘actor’. This new word maintains the original meaning of act, but adds the extra meaning of a person who acts. As a child learns common morphemes, they spend little to no time decoding and reading comprehension increases. (Excerpt from study.com)

“I

have always imagined that paradise will be a kind of library,” Argentinian writer Jorge Luis Borges once said.

The accuracy of that attribution is debatable, but the quote’s sentiment undeniably resonates with those who love to read. It comes as no surprise then that reading is good for your brain in a number of ways, whether you’re engrossed in a George R R Martin fantasy novel or a personal essay about one man’s search for an identity.

Reading can take you to imaginary lands, foster understanding of different cultures and let you live lives you couldn’t in the real world. Sure, that sounds like a romanticisation of reading, but science has shown that it has very real benefits for the brain, too.

Literacy levels in America are bleak: one in four American children grow up without learning to read and 93 million Americans have basic or below-basic literacy. The downside is that

the right to literacy is not extended to everyone; on the other hand, community efforts to improve literacy in America point to an understanding of its importance as a tool for personal growth that benefits society, too.

So if you’re reading this – and you’re one of the more fortunate ones – here’s how reading can affect your brain in the most remarkable ways.

1. Reading rewires your brain

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University observed the structure of children’s brains before and after 100 hours of intensive reading training. At the end of the study, the white matter (the stuff that improves brain communication) in their brains increased and they were able to read better.

2. Reading in a foreign language can make your brain grow

Learning a foreign language can be challenging.

But one of the best ways to improve is to read in the language you’re learning – it improves vocabulary, gives context for new words and reinforces our memory.

A study by the Swedish Armed Forces Interpreter Academy showed that those who underwent intensive

language instruction saw significant size growth in parts of the brain that involved learning new material and spatial navigation, further strengthening the argument for reading.

3. Reading about an experience is like you’re living it yourself

Researchers in Spain found that the brain does not draw huge contrasts between reading about an encounter and experiencing it in real life. Fiction books offer a particularly vivid replica of real life, the New York Times reported, and allowed readers to fully submerge themselves in another person’s thoughts and feelings.

4. Different reading styles create different brain patterns

At Stanford University, researchers observed an interesting difference when people skimmed through excerpts of a Jane Austen novel and when they actually read closely as if they were studying for an exam.

In both instances, blood flow in the brain increased, but in separate parts. The study gave researchers a glimpse at the kind of effects our reading ways have on our brains.

5. Reading makes you more empathetic

Some say there are two types of fiction – literary and genre. Researchers found that besides the categorical distinction, its impact on the human brain is also different. Those who read literary fiction tested better for understanding other’s thoughts and feelings, which meant their capacity for empathy was better than those who read nonfiction or genre fiction.

6. It could also make you smarter

Writing in The Guardian, Dan Hurley pointed to recent studies confirming that the relationship between reading and intelligence is so close that it could be symbiotic. Listing out three types of intelligence most recognized by psychologists, Hurley stated that people who read overall performed better on all fronts.

Convinced yet? Maybe it’s time to pick up that book you’ve been neglecting. (aplus. com)

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Harmon questions 4 high-powered rifles Jagdeo’s immunity found within 24 hours

… says presidential immunity likely for constitutional reform

T

he immunity granted to former Presidents is an issue that could be examined in constitutional reform, Minister of State Joseph Harmon said on Friday. He was at the time responding to questions about the stance taken by former President Bharrat Jagdeo after he was taken in for questioning by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) on Tuesday, on his acquisition of his Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD) property, in what is commonly referred to as Pradoville 2’.

Harmon’s apparent threat comes mere hours after President David Granger was apologetic about the way in which the Guyana Police Force treated the former President in the matter.

After being arrested on Tuesday last, Jagdeo when questioned about decisions he took while being a sitting President, told investigators that he was covered by immunity as a former

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo speaking with the media on Tuesday last following his arrest and release

constitutional reform process.

According to Harmon, the Constitution can be looked at in a certain way as the article gives immunity to the President while he is in office. He said the situation in Guyana has become so different that the anticipation of the framers of the Constitution was that a President, once he leaves office, would lead a quiet life.

problem you have with a former President who writes almost every day in the newspapers and say things that need to be dealt with.

Usually a President is given certain levels of courtesies, but if, by their actions after they leave office, they descend in the arena, then you will have to be dealt with by the persons in the arena,” Harmon told the media at his weekly post-Cabi-

Minister of State Joseph Harmon speaking to the media on Friday

President of Guyana and could not answer their questions.

But Harmon said while the Constitution is very clear about immunity about a sitting President taking certain steps while in office, it is possible that the issue could be brought up in the

“But the situation in Guyana is totally different.

You have people who have been in office and are now in the National Assembly. So how can you now claim those immunities while you are actively involved in day to day politics”? It is the same

net briefing.

People’s Progressive Party (PPP) officials have been accused of knowingly acquiring state lands at costs that were below market value, while their government held office.

TURN TO PAGE 11

H

ours after a AK47 and a M-70 rifle were discovered at a house at First Street, Meter-Meer-Zorg, West Coast of Demerara, two other high-powered rifles were found in an empty lot at Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara on Friday.

The weapons – an AK47 and a .223 Ruger Rifle – accompanied with magazines, were found wrapped in plastic garbage bags in the corner of a trench.

Police ranks of the Major Crime Unit of the Guyana Police Force conducted the operation after receiving information. Two persons were taken into Police custody and are assisting with the investigations into the Cumming Lodge operation.

Meanwhile, one person remains in Police custody as investigations continue into the discovery of the two rifles that were found

The guns and ammunition found in the trench in Cummings Lodge

under a stove in the kitchen of the Metem-Meer-Zorg house.

The 33-year-old owner of the house, who also operates a restaurant, allegedly has close relations with a convicted drug lord. It was reported that the Police acting on information went to the home of the former

body guard and conducted a search.

During the search, the two weapons which appeared not to have been used for some time, were unearthed. The owner of the house was immediately arrested.

Investigations are continuing in both matters.

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saturDAY, march 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS Suspect on remand for murder of “Pastor Chrissy”

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fter almost a year and a half on the run, the man accused of killing Christopher Warton, called “Pastor Chrissy”, was on Friday slapped with a murder charge.

Bryan Mohan is accused of killing Warton on November 18, 2015, at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

On Friday, the unrep-

resented man was also slapped with two other

charges; narcotics possession and possession of an

illegal firearm.

The prosecution is contending that on March 3, 2017, at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Mohan was in possession of a .32 Taurus pistol, along with 10 live rounds of matching ammunition, without being the holder of a firearm licence.

Warton, who denied the latter charges was nonetheless remanded to prison until March 30.

5 remanded on narco-possession, illegal firearm, ammo charges

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our men who were arrested during a Police raid at Omai Landing in Region Seven (Cuyuni/ Mazaruni) on March 7th made their second court appearance on Friday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, and were all further remanded.

Charged separately for the offences of narcotics possession and possession of a firearm and ammunition, these men had on Thursday been arraigned before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, and had been remanded to prison.

On Friday, accompanied by Attorney-at-law Clyde Forde, 20-yearold Mark Sampson of Arakawa Linden, Region Ten (10) stood before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and pleaded not guilty to possession of 450 grammes of cannabis at Omai Landing, Essequibo River on March 7.

Stephan Atkinson

Dexter Cameron, a 23-year-old resident of Central Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, likewise stood before the Chief Magistrate and pleaded not guilty to being in possession of 892 grammes of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking, on March 7 at Omai Landing in the Essequibo River.

Twenty-seven-year-old

Eldius Paddy, who was reportedly busted with a quantity of 73 grammes of marijuana on March 7, 2017 at Omai Landing during the same Police raid, also pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Defence attorney for these two men, Charlene FungA-Fatt, applied for bail to be granted them, but this request was denied. The Prosecution contended that the men were caught with the illegal substance when Police officials swooped down on a shop in the area, and each had subsequently admitted to ownership of same.

And Stephan Atkinson, a 35-year-old excavator operator and father of three, of Mainstay, Essequibo, who on March 7 was busted with an unlicensed firearm and ammunition during the course of the raid, stood before the Chief Magistrate and pleaded not guilty to being in possession of a

Millennium Taurus pistol along with six live rounds of matching ammunition at Omai Landing, Region Seven, on March 7 last.

His defence attorney, Latchmie Rahamat, contended that the firearm was not found on his person, but in the premises of a shop occupied by several others; but Police facts contradicted this assertion, positing that a search conducted on Atkinson’s person had led to the discovery of the pistol.

Magistrate Azore had, on Thursday, advised the respective defense councils to reserve bail application for Friday, when the accused persons would face the Chief Magistrate.

Chief Magistrate McLennan presided over the matters on Friday as scheduled, and transferred the matters to be heard at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Courts on March 19.

Different strokes…

T

…for the old party enforcer here are none so blind as those who would not see.

At a time when the Government arrests practically the entire previous PPP Cabinet for making an exception of themselves and purchasing house lots in an exclusive development, they railroad through a bill in Parliament to make an exception of Hamilton Green in defining how to calculate a pension! And he ends up 100 times richer!! So why is the first “unjust enrichment” and not the other? Because the APNU/AFC has one more vote than the PPP? But more accurately, it’s not about “A” pension, is it?

It’s about Hamilton Green’s pension – so much that the Bill actually names him! The rule for past top Government officials’ pensions – they’re calculated at 7/8ths of their last salary. Simple, no? Well, the APNU/AFC Government decides that was TOO simple. When Hamilton Green and the PNC was voted out in 1992, the PM’s salary was peanuts at today’s standards. But he didn’t storm the Elections HQ while President Carter was in the building for the salary!

Back then, his salary wasn’t the thing – power was and with that he could reprise the role of the thug that catapulted him to Burnham’s notice back in the sixties.

Whatever money could buy and he wanted, he just commandeered it! Even Burnham bypassed Hamilton Green for the PM’s office in favour of Desmond Hoyte back in 1990 because he’d grown too big for his britches and even took on the Kabaka!

Well we fast forward to the present, with Green’s pension now swollen to 7/8ths of that of today’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Moses Nagamootoo. But what does Nagamootoo’s salary and perks have to do with Green you ask, dear reader. Well, calculating from this base multiplies Green’s take home by the aforementioned 100 times!! While violating the rule on pensions – just to reward one man! Why??

The answer’s simple when you think of it. And it’s the same reason why he was first in line to get a national award from this Government. It’s literally payback time.

When Green was the big enchilada in the PNC – especially being PM, he did quite a lot of favours to many of the present PNC who’re now in office. Folks forget Hoyte had cleansed the PNC of the Burnhamite hardliners after he took office…and this meant several of the faithful had been banished to Siberia. And Green was the only man in their corner – until Hoyte expelled HIM from the PNC. Today they’re rewarding their benefactor even if it means subverting the rules that undergird our tenuous hold on stability.

While cane cutters from Wales can’t even get their severance! …for PPP protesters In a very chilling address to the GDF’s Annual Officers’ Conference, President Brigadier David Granger claimed, “Reckless remarks about an uprising and provocative calls for the mobilisation of foot soldiers have the potential to rip apart the fragile fabric of social cohesion that we enjoy.” Notwithstanding the protestations, he has to be referring to the concerns raised by the Leader of the Opposition that the precipitate closings of several sugar estates by the Govt will inevitably lead to protest actions by the thousands of workers who’ll be thrown into the streets.

The doctrine of “total national defence” – military, social, civil and environmental – adumbrated by Granger is eerily reminiscent of that unleashed by Forbes Burnham when he tried to militarise the society back in the 1970’s.

The massive reserve forces that are being envisioned – then called the “Peoples’ Militia – was used with other para-military forces such as the Guyana National Service to intimidate the populace that was also buffeted by a collapsing economy.

This intimidation of legitimate democratic protests must be resisted. …for parking meter protests Unlike the sugar workers’ protests, those over the parking meters seem to be taken in stride by the City and Central Govt.

It is just a “town” vs “rural” thing?

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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saturDAY, march 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

ANSA McAL sole sourcing

President says “disciplinary actions” for persons at fault

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ead of State David Granger has stated that disciplinary actions will be taken against anyone found to be at fault as it relates to the recent sole scouring of pharmaceuticals for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), for which a contract to the tune of $605 million has been awarded to Trinidadian firm ANSA McAL. Since the awarding of the contract, local pharmaceutical companies have come forward, pointing to the fact that they can deliver the required drugs for half the cost Government is set to pay the foreign company.

To this end, when asked to address the contentions of local manufacturers, the President posited that this matter can be resolved at the levels of the Finance and Public Health Ministries, as well as the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

In the same breath, however, the Head of State noted that he is not aware of any laws being broken or any acts of criminality committed in the award of the contract to ANSA McAL. “If there is some procedural irregularity that can be rectified and if it is found that somebody is at fault, well there can be disciplinary actions,” he told reporters on the televised programme – The Public Interest, which aired on Friday.

Nevertheless, President Granger insisted that while it is not the policy of his Government to procure drugs through sole scouring, there was a crisis in which drugs that were supposed to be supplied since last year were delayed for whatever reason and actions had to be taken to remedy the situation.

President David Granger

Beverly Harper

“My understanding of the present situation (is that) a crisis arose at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation… and the Public Hospital Corporation invited the persons who were shortlisted to make presentations with regards to providing the drugs which were in short supply. So we have not changed, I have not changed my position we’ve done a lot to ensure that the (Public) Procurement Commission was established so we could bring this whole practice of sole scouring to an end,” the Head of State asserted.

Asked how the matter could be rectified going forward, the President opined that with proper tendering for the supply of pharmaceuticals, this could be achieved. Moreover, he expressed his satisfaction with the way pharmaceuticals are procured, stored and distributed to the various medical institutions around the country, especially following the change made at the helm of the Public Health Ministry earlier this year.

Management of the Georgetown Public Hospital has been accused of deliberating creating an emer-

gency situation in order to sole source drugs from its preferred supplier. It has cancelled and delayed four out of its five public tenders within the last four months, thereby creating a situation wherein there was a massive shortage of pharmaceuticals.

In a letter dated February 28, 2017, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Georgetown Hospital, Allan Johnson, thanked Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence for authorising the procurement of medical supplies from ANSA McAL to the tune of $605,962,200, even though local firms could have supplied the same quantity and quality of drugs at better prices. Both Johnson and the Minister have refused to speak to the media on the issue.

Nevertheless, questions are now being raised regarding why local firms which could have supplied the pharmaceuticals at cheaper prices had been sidelined. It raises the issue of motive and possible corruption, which is reminiscent of the earlier decision to rent a non-existent pharma warehouse.

ANSA McAL has since claimed it had submit-

ted a bid for the $605 million contract; but according to information received, on Tuesday, February 14, 2017, six companies, including ANSA McAL, had each submitted a bid in response to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s public tender for pharmaceuticals.

Moreover, on the same day, Georgetown Public Hospital also requested quotations, not bids, for emergency supplies based on availability, after it had belatedly cancelled yet another tender for emergency supplies. There was therefore no bidding process for the emergency supplies, as is being alleged.

Given the magnitude of this transaction with ANSA McAL, there is a strong possibility that it would impact the public tender/ quantities which are still under consideration, and that must be of concern to the five other bidders.

To this end, local manufacturer, NEW GPC INC, in a statement on Wednesday pointed out that it could have supplied many of the items instantaneously, since there is usually inventory on hand. In a worst-case scenario, the company said, the delay would have been less than a few days to get the products manufactured right

here in Guyana.

Additionally, NEW GPC has said that by utilising its established and reliable supply chain, it could have supplied even the items to be imported quicker; for instance, a Clindamycin injection, for which ANSA McAL’s price was 12 times that of the NEW GPC’s.

For Diclofenac tablets, the NEW GPC has said,

ANSA McAL’s price was 15 times its price; and for Clotrimazole cream, which is made locally, ANSA McAL’s price was as much as 23 times the New GPC’s price. From merely 16 of the 118 items surveyed, the Georgetown Hospital would have saved over G$100 million of taxpayers’ money had it purchased those items from the NEW GPC.

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Police Force gets 85 new recruits T

he Guyana Police Force on Friday welcomed a new batch of 85 recruits to the cadre of law enforcement. Officers of three different courses graduated from the Felix Austin Police College, eager to serve and protect.

After five months of rigorous training, a well diverse group of young enthusiasts emerged as Police Officers of the Guyana Police Force.

The now ambassadors of the Force were exposed to a life altering experience which transformed them from regular civilians into enforcers of the law.

The training, which began on October 10, 2016, incorporated various components which included practice and procedures, self-defence, first aid, anger management and basic capacity building courses. The recruits were also subjected to teachings on crime, traffic and other essential aspects necessary to fully prepare the young officers for a life of service.

The Force’s Training Officer, Paul Williams congratulated the batch for making it to the finish line.

He stated that many were called by only a few chosen; thus, he was delighted with those who managed to weather the storm. The Training Officer reminded the new intakes that discipline is paramount and so

emony, nine officers received special recognition and accolades for their accomplishments throughout the training programme. A best student, runner-up and most improved were awarded with trophies for each of the three courses.

The new Police Officers are now under a two-year probation period during which they will be closely monitored. The officers are subjected to dismissal in instances of misconduct which were laid out in a declaration they had previous-

Awardees and trainers at the GPF graduation

he urged the graduates to maintain the high standards of ethics and conduct that are expected of them.

Moreover, Assistant Police Commissioner Maxine Graham in her featured address highlighted that officers of the law are constantly under intense scrutiny. As such, she reminded the officers of their sworn oath. Graham pointed out that joining the Force is a unique opportunity to change lives in a positive manner. Further, she tasked the batch of new recruits to never let a victim suffer at the hands of an offender for a second time. She prompted the grandates, stating that their actions have serious consequences and with that, their duty is to arrest criminals and offer assistance to those in need.

At the graduation cer-

ly signed. Visible tattoos and the possession or use of narcotics are two such misdemeanours. The Training Officer mentioned one instance of a recruit being dismissed from the very batch for his use of narcotics.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a final parade and salute from the recruits. The batch from each of the three courses commenced their march as trainees of the Felix Austin Police College and concluded as Officers of the Guyana Police Force.

N/A Hospital drug shortage

Govt claims Surinamese utilising Guyana’s health facilities

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overnment is taking steps to address complaints emerging out of Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) by health officials who said residents of neighbouring Suriname are coming to Guyana to utilise the free health services in Berbice.

The situation seems to be contributing somewhat to the drug shortages being experienced at the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon said the drug shortage at that particular hospital is not a general one but would be of a specific drug.

He said the matter is currently being addressed by the Public Health Minister.

Recently, a team including Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings visited the New Amsterdam Hospital and found this, although it is something Government might have been aware of for some time.

The Minister said it was found during one of her outreach meetings in the region, further disclosing that officials complained that persons were coming from Suriname and utilising the medical services.

“Because the bulk of it is free and so you have a lot of traffic coming to New Amsterdam, coming to Berbice and utilising our system,” she told reporters.

Last week, the Social Services Parliamentary Sectoral Committee visited the New Amsterdam Hospital to examine the functions and management

of the healthcare facility.

Members of the Committee found that drug shortages at the health institution remain a sore issue. However, Director of Health Services in the region, Jevaughn Stephens, revealed that the issues are as a result of the suppliers routinely delivering important and much needed drugs late.

Chairperson of the Social Services Committee, Dr Vindhya Persaud explained that the continued shortage has forced the regional hospital to purchase drugs, using the emergency funds, but there still is not enough provision to meet the demand.

The Chairperson had noted that the system of transferring drugs from the Materials Management Unit (MMU) to the health facility leaves loopholes for discrepancies, hence the shortages.

Meanwhile, Dr Cummings said the Ministry is aware of these issues and is in the

process of addressing them.

Minister Cummings said “The Ministry of (Public) Health is working to bridge the gap that exists in all essential areas. The Ministry was engaged with some of their international partners like (Pan American Health Organisation) PAHO… we do have a problem with suppliers because they are saying suppliers don’t have the quantity or the name of the drug so we are engaged with our international partners to ensure that we have these drugs.”

Meanwhile, during the tour of the healthcare facility, the need for additional staff in administrative and technical areas was recorded, with a specific need for porters and medical laboratory technologists. Dr Persaud also recommended that accommodation facilities and allowances for ‘on call’ doctors be restructured to encourage the workforce to deliver optimum services.

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saturDAY, march 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Pradoville 2

NCN tower had to be moved to facilitate airport expansion – official confirms

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he removal of the National Communications Network (NCN) transmission tower from Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara, was done in order to facilitate the expansion of the then Ogle Airport and not the development of the Pradoville 2 housing area, which is currently under investigation by the Special Organised Crime Unity (SOCU) of the Guyana Police Force.

This was confirmed by Public Communications Consultant of the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Kit Nascimento, who told Guyana Times that the NCN antenna tower at Sparendaam penetrated the Obstacle Clearance Limitations (OCL) for operations of the extended runway as part of the development of what was then

Ogle Airport, now renamed the Eugene F Correia International Airport.

“Ogle Airport Inc [OAI], therefore, communicated this fact to the Government for the removal of the tower since 2004, in accordance with the company’s Lease Agreement for the development of the Airport. The tower was removed from Sparendaam in 2010 and OAI was then in a position to proceed with its Airport Expansion Project,” Nascimento told this newspaper on Friday.

The issue of the tower, which has since been relocated to La Parfaite Harmonie, on the West Bank of Demerara, came up for scrutiny during the ongoing probe of the exclusive housing scheme. Over the last few days, SOCU has arrested and detained several former prominent

Public Communications Consultant of Eugene F Correia International Airport, Kit Nascimento

Government officials under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) regime, including former President and now Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo; former Prime Minister

Harmon questions Jagdeo’s...

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo on Tuesday said the action has nothing to do with fighting corruption but rather about instilling fear and intimidating in those who resist policies of the coalition Administration.

He had explained that ahead of his interrogation, he asked the agents whether he was being questioned in his private capacity or his official capacity as his actions as President are immune.

“I asked if they are asking questions in my private capacity or official capacity because in doing that you are going to breach the veil of immunity that I have for official acts and that will have far reaching consequences in this country,” he stated.

The Opposition Leader said he declined to answer questions posed to him in his pri-

vate capacity. He disclosed that questions were relating to the audit reports’ findings on the Pradoville 2 transaction, NICIL and NCN operations.

Jagdeo anticipates that charges will be laid, given Government’s “agenda”, but assured that the charges will be challenged in the courts. The Opposition leader said he strongly believes the unprecedented actions taken by SOCU are politically motivated and meant to silence the vociferous voices against the wrongdoings of the coalition.

But Minister Harmon said Government’s position remains the same – that SOCU is an arm of the Guyana Police Force and it is a Police investigation and “we will not interfere with the Police investigation”.

Harmon said the Police Officers involved in the in-

from page 7

vestigation are equipped to deal with the issues that will arise.

“The questions of immunity will be determined at the appropriate time.

Whether immunity exists or whether it is covered by the offence that has been committed. This is the kind of additional advice and training Police are receiving,” Harmon said.

Article 182 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana states, “…the holder of the office of President shall not be personally answerable to any court for the performance of the functions of his office or for any act done in the performance of those functions and no proceedings, whether criminal or civil, shall be instituted against him in his personal capacity in respect thereof either during his term of office or thereafter.”

and President Samuel Hinds; former Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon; and former Ministers Priya Manickchand; Irfaan Ali; Clement Rohee; and Jennifer Westford, among others in connection to their role in the Pradoville 2 scheme.

In fact, after meeting with SOCU officials at the Camp Road Headquarters on Wednesday, former Prime Minister Hinds told reporters that he was questioned about the transmission tower that was located from Sparendaam. At the time, he was Prime Minister with responsibility for the aviation sector.

Hinds had explained that talks of the removal of the transmission tower begun in 2004, some seven years before it was actually relocated to allow for the Airport’s expansion. He noted that there are documents to support this. Moreover, the former Prime Minister pointed out that after going into to office back in 1992, the PPP/C Administration was challenged by the Correia’s who opened a hangar at the then Ogle Airport, claiming that enough was not being done for the private aircraft industry.

From this, Hinds added, discussions started for

the Airport expansion into a municipal and regional airport, for which the tower had to be removed.

While this is the contention of both the Airport authorities and the former Administration, the recent forensic audit into the operations of Government holding company – the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) indicate otherwise.

According to the report,

maintained during the audit that the relocation was done for expansion of the Airport, but the auditor outlined in the report that there was no reference to the tower being in the flight path of aircraft operating out of Ogle Airport in any of NICIL’s Board minutes or in any of the Cabinet’s decisions in relation to the Sparendaam Project.Moreover, the report detailed that NCN had even made representation

Eugene F Correia International Airport

“the removal and relocation of the NCN transmission tower were done to facilitate the housing development of the (Sparendaam) area.”

The document went on to highlight that State funds amounting to $257 million were expended on the development of the Sparendaam housing project (Pradoville 2).

However, NICIL had

for the relocation of the tower for improved transmission. According to the auditor, Anand Goolsarran, “it is also not clear to whom NCN made representation for the relocation of the tower since the established procedure is for NCN to request funding via the National Budget to undertake any capital works.”

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friDAY, march 10, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Pradoville 2 investigations

Region 2 PPP supporters condemn SOCU’s actions …say arrest of leaders seek to instil fear, intimidation

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mmediately after it was made public that several leading members and officials of the People’s Progressive Party had last Tuesday been arrested by operatives of the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU), scores of supporters and executive members of that Party’s Region Two (Essequibo Coast) branch began voicing strong condemnation at the action of arresting several former ministers and officials of the previous Government.

Deeming the arrests an unfair act of the present Government, PPP supporters contend that the arrests were designed to cause persons to lose confidence in the party, and revealed that they were saddened to see SOCU detain their leaders for something that was unjustifiable.

PPP Regional Committee Member and Member of Parliament, Cornel Damon, was vocal in condemning the actions of SOCU. He said he was standing with the many other supporters of the party to condemn the actions as well as speak out against them. “Detaining PPP leaders was uncalled for. (It was) atrocious, vindictive, and (showed) that the APNU/AFC (Administration

Some of the Region Two party supporters who condemned SOCU’s actions

doesn’t) care (that) Government is attacking the PPP. I therefore call for the Government to stop victimising the PPP executives for a crime that was not committed,” Damon said.

He added that the practice of witch-hunting must stop, and upbraided Government on its action. “Several acres of prime lease lands were given to the Burnham family, and when the PPP took office those families were not attacked,” Damon explained.

Further, contending that the current Government also has been accused of misusing state resources, Damon called for a forensic audit to be conducted on the President’s inauguration ceremony, construction of the Jubilee Park, the drug bond fiasco, and also for a keen examination to be done

in regard to the amount of money that was spent on the Prime Minister’s Residence.

Juliet Coonjah, General Secretary of the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), another arm of the People’s Progressive Party, said she used the forum of International Women’s Day as an opportunity to condemn the gross abuse that had been perpetrated on the senior leadership of that Party. She said the actions and conduct of a former President of Guyana, current Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, had brought worldwide recognition to Guyana, and what SOCU had done constituted an attempt to defame this outstanding leader.

Coonjah said supporters of the Party stand firmly on the platform of democracy, peace and justice.

Rabindranauth Mohan, a representative of the Region Two Rice Producers Association, also condemned the unjust arrest. Describing it as an act of intimidation, he revealed that he strongly believes it was carried out to drive fear in the minds

of citizens as well as party supporters. The actions of the present Government, he said, show clearly that history is being repeated.

Yet another member of the PPP, Vishnu Samaroo, opined that actions conducted by SOCU constitute a measure used by Government to silence dissent at the way Guyana’s economy is being mismanaged. “There (has) been a downward movement of Guyana’s economy, and nothing is being done by the Government to ensure that the sectors strive again.

Instead, PPP leaders are being attacked,” he declared.

People’s Progressive Party supporters in Region Two are calling for democracy and peace to prevail in Guyana.

Over the last few days, SOCU has arrested and detained several former prominent Government officials, including former President and now Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo; former Prime Minister and President, Samuel Hinds; Dr. Luncheon; and former Ministers Priya Manickchand, Irfaan Ali, Clement Rohee, Robert Persaud and Dr. Jennifer Westford, among others in connection to purchase of land at the Pradoville 2 scheme.

The current Administration contends that the transaction is a criminal act because its officials believe that the land was sold below market value.

AK-47 smuggling

Corporal turns self in to custody

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s investigations continue into last week’s attempted smuggling of a high-powered AK47 assault rifle out of the compound of the Guyana Police Force Headquarters, Corporal 18404 Shevon Marks, one of five police ranks fingered in the probe, turned himself in to police custody on Friday, after submitting a medical certificate for 14 days sick leave.

Police say that Marks, accompanied by Attorney Dexter Todd, presented himself to the police at about 17:30h on Friday, and is presently in custody at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, where he is assisting with the investigation.

It was reported on Thursday that this corporal had, last weekend, escaped from the Brickdam Police Station, where he was being kept under confinement. However, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum clarified the situation on Thursday by explaining that the corporal did not escape, but had left the premises after submitting a medical certificate for 14 days’ sick leave.

Blanhum related that the medical document was presented to him by the officer’s attorney, and he (Blanhum) was expected to respond “appropriately.”

Corporal Marks is reportedly the brother of the tattoo artist who has been charged and remanded to prison for the murder of Corentyne domestic worker Leelawattie Mohamed, who was gunned down in her Tain home last month. The corporal was reportedly under the radar of several senior officers, whose suspicions he had aroused by his being seen driving in and out of the TSU compound in various heavily tinted motor cars. The Police are continuing their investigations into the smuggling of the weapon, and it is expected that sever-

The AK-47 persons tried to smuggle out of the Police headquarters

al others will be implicated.

The corporal of police was among five Police officers, including an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ASP) attached to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU), who were taken into custody last week after a civilian was caught attempting to leave the Police compound with an AK-47 rifle.

The officers had been placed under close arrest, but after 72 hours had elapsed, they were put on open arrest, while the civilian remains in police custody as investigations continue. Investigators have since approached the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for advice.

The Crime Chief on Thursday told this newspaper that the DPP has returned the file to the police.

However, he did not know what advice was given, since he was yet to review the file at the time.

Reports are that a civilian vehicle had been allowed into the police compound last Tuesday evening without being searched. The vehicle reportedly stayed through-

out the evening, but when it was leaving the compound the following morning, it was searched and the weapon was discovered. After the weapon had been discovered, the mobile phone belonging to the driver was checked, and it revealed that several calls had been made to an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Based on that information, the senior police rank was questioned and placed under close arrest.

This very ASP, this newspaper was told, has been fingered in several unprofessional and shady actions.

In fact, he was interdicted from duty several years ago, following the murder of Dweive Kant Ramdass in the Essequibo River. Ramdass was reportedly robbed of millions.

The ASP had been a cadet officer at the time, but he and other ranks were accused of stealing the undisclosed sum of money which they had confiscated from Ramdass.

During the trial, however, no evidence was given against the Police ranks, and they were reinstated into the Guyana Police Force.

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saturDAY, march 11, 2017

Regional

Pope Francis announces visit A cruise line commits to developing private to Colombia in September island in The Bahamas

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ope Francis has announced he will visit Colombia in September. The Pope closely followed the four-year talks between the government and the FARC rebel group, which led to a peace agreement in November.

President Juan Manuel Santos said the Pope was travelling to Colombia to help “in the building of peace”.

He will arrive in the capital, Bogota on September 6 and will visit Medellin, Cartagena and Villavicencio before returning to Rome five days later.

A Vatican spokesman said that the fact that the Pope was visiting only one country in the region and

President Santos met Pope Francis in the Vatican in December, days after signing the FARC peace accord

the length of the trip showed the importance Pope Francis attributed to Colombia.

During a visit in 2015 to Cuba, where the peace nego-

tiations were held, he urged the Colombian Government and the FARC to persevere with the talks. He said the two sides could not allow

“another failure on the path of peace and reconciliation”.

“Pope Francis is a builder of bridges, not walls,’’ said Santos, Santos won last year’s Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end the conflict with the left-wing rebels. The agreement is now being implemented. But it still divides opinions in Colombia, where many think the rebels will not pay for the crimes committed during the 52-year-long conflict.

Some 7000 FARC fighters are now gathered in transition zones across the country to be registered and to hand over their guns, before they return to civilian life in June. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Press freedom organisation rejects draft bill in Panama that would interfere in media content

T

he Inter American Press Association (IAPA) on Thursday expressed its rejection of a legislative draft bill that seeks to oblige privately-owned news media to circulate educational and cultural messages, saying this is “an interference in content and a violation of news companies’ properties rights.”

Draft bill number 465, submitted to the National

Assembly by Congressman Noriel Salerno of Cambio Democrático party, would establish that radio and television media would be required to broadcast at least one educational or cultural message or one on electoral teaching “for each five advertisements” in the ad sections of the regular programming.

Daily newspapers of national circulation would

have to include as a minimum two such messages in each issue “in spaces located in sections set aside for advertisements in order to ensure that the messages are noticed by a large number of readers.” It also contains obligatory requirements for non-daily publications.

IAPA President Matt Sanders expressed alarm at the contents of the bill, which he said “although it

could have good intentions it carries with it serious violations with the state meddling in private activities and in the editorial criteria of the media.”

“It is an intrusion in media content and a violation of news companies’ property rights,” declared Sanders, Senior Editor and General Manager of Deseret Digital Media, Salt Lake City, Utah.

T

he world’s largest cruise line, Royal Caribbean International, has committed to enhancing a private island destination in The Bahamas.

The plan to construct a pier at Coco Cay, also known as Little Stirrup Cay, situated in the Berry Islands – which will include additional guest features and amenities, and new opportunities for vendors and craftsmen – is part of a multiyear agreement the cruise company signed with The Bahamas earlier this week.

Royal Caribbean says overall, the agreement will help grow The Bahamas’ tourism, rapidly increase the cruise line’s employment of Bahamian nationals and invest in hospitality training to develop talent in the country.

At a signing ceremony attended by Prime Minister of The Bahamas Perry Christie

and president/CEO of Royal Caribbean International Michael Bayley, the cruise line confirmed the plans.

As part of the agreement, Royal Caribbean plans to work with The Bahamas government to develop a training programme to provide those who aspire to a career in hospitality with a unique opportunity to participate in innovative training and development.

The cruise line will create a curriculum that will prepare many thousands of students for careers at sea on board one of Royal Caribbean’s ships. In addition to the classroom experience, students will receive on-site guidance and training from shipboard professionals.

Royal Caribbean has committed to rapidly growing the number of Bahamian nationals employed by the cruise line in the next five years. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

CDB, IDB sign agreement to strengthen partnership

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Jamaican Govt signs MoU for new Parliament … redevelopment of downtown Kingston

T

he Jamaican G o v e r n m e n t , through the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), on Thursday morning signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Construction Company of America (CCA) – South America Division – for new Parliament and Government offices as part of the Administration’s Oval Zone project.

According to Jamaica House, the signing of the MoU is the first phase of the project which will see the CCA providing consultancy services for the design concept of each zone.

Speaking at the signing ceremony at Jamaica House, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said he was happy for the public-private partnership, which signals the start of great things for Jamaica.

“In concentrating our development efforts we could become the catalyst for the wider redevelopment of the downtown Kingston area.

The general vision is not just to put up square box-

Dr William Warren Smith, President, CDB (left) and Luis Alberto Moreno, President, IDB (right), sign a MoU to strengthen their ongoing partnership in addressing the Caribbean’s development priorities during a ceremony at IDB’s headquarters

T

Prime Minister Andrew Holness (second right) signs a Memorandum of Understanding with China Construction of America (South America Division) for the construction of new Parliament and Government offices. Also signing are Senator Ransford Braham (left), Chairman, UDC; Chinese Ambassador to Jamaica Niu Quinbao (second left); and Xuexuan Zheng, Vice President, China Construction Company. Witnessing the signing are (from left), Dr Damian Graham, General Manager, UDC; Dr Glenford Christian, UDC Board member; and Fan Jianghong, Economic and Commercial Counsellor, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China

es that rise several storeys.

The vision is to build buildings that represent the future of Jamaica. Buildings that show the aspiration of the Jamaican people, structures that when we look at them we can say we are leaving legacies for future generations, and when you

put them all together you can also say that we are building communities,” said Prime Minister Holness.

Last year, the prime minister announced that the Government would seek to develop a campus of government buildings that would surround National

Heroes Circle, with the intention to bring together all ministries, agencies and departments into a purpose-built area which can be leveraged for greater efficiency, provide greater security and improved service delivery. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

he Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their ongoing partnership in addressing the Caribbean’s development priorities.

Through the MoU, signed at the IDB’s headquarters, both institutions renewed their commitment to collaborating on programmes and projects that contribute to sustainable economic development in the Region.

The agreement formalises their cooperation in CDB borrowing member countries that are also members of the IDB, and countries in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Through a unique charter provision, IDB resources are channelled to OECS coun-

tries that are not members of the Washington-based Bank, through CDB. “The MoU embodies the common vision for the sustainable development of the Caribbean that IDB and CDB share. I expect then, that the MoU will provide the framework for us to work collaboratively and creatively, over the next decade and a half, to facilitate the attainment of the development agenda; and accelerate the transformation of these countries,” said CDB President Dr William Warren Smith.

IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno said the two entities have had “a singularly close and forward-looking partnership” for four decades and they now have an opportunity to “strengthen those bonds and take on our shared challenges with renewed optimism”. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

saturDAY, march 11, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

15

Around the World

Donald Trump invites Mahmoud South Korean court throws President out of Abbas to White House office; 2 die in protest U

S

outh Korea’s Constitutional Court removed President Park Geun-hye from office on Friday over a graft scandal involving the country’s conglomerates at a time of rising tensions with North Korea and China.

The ruling sparked protests from hundreds of Park’s supporters, two of whom were killed in clashes with police outside the court, and a festive rally by those who had demanded her ouster who celebrated justice being served.

Park becomes South Korea’s first democratically elected leader to be forced from office, capping months of paralysis and turmoil over the corruption scandal that also landed the head of the Samsung conglomerate in detention and on trial.

A snap presidential election will be held within 60

President Park Geun-hye

days. Park did not appear in court, and a spokesman said she would not be making any comment. She also would not leave the presidential Blue House residence on Friday.

“Park is not leaving the Blue House today,” Blue House spokesman Kim Dong Jo told Reuters. Park was stripped of her powers after

parliament voted to impeach her but has remained in the president’s official compound.

The court’s acting Chief Judge, Lee Jung-mi, said Park had violated the Constitution and law “throughout her term,” and despite the objections of Parliament and the media, she had concealed the truth and cracked down on critics.Park has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing.The ruling to uphold Parliament’s December 9, 2016, vote to impeach her marks a dramatic fall from grace of South Korea’s first woman President and daughter of Cold War military dictator Park Chunghee. Both her parents were assassinated. Park, 65, no longer has immunity and could now face criminal charges over bribery, extortion and abuse of power in connection with allegations of conspiring with her friend, Choi Soon-sil.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

India snubs new UN chief, rejects Kashmir mediation

I

ndia has again reiterated that only a bilateral solution to the Kashmir issue is possible, amid signs that new United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Gutterres was looking at ways to break the deadlock between the two nations.

Responding to reports that Guterres was considering opening a conversation with senior Indian and Pakistani officials on Kashmir, Government sources said, “Our position on addressing all issues between

India and Pakistan bilaterally has not changed.”

Guterres’ spokesperson Farhan Haq was quoted as saying that the secretary general “will talk to different officials if it helps (to) move the process along. That’s something that he is looking into. Beyond that, I have nothing new to say about the issue”.

Haq was answering journalists’ questions about the situation in Kashmir, and if Guterres had been able to understand the Kashmir dis-

pute and would he be talking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to start a dialogue with Pakistan.

When asked if there was a timeline as to when the UN chief would talk to leaders from the two countries, Haq said that, as with any number of long-running situations, there were “a lot of complex issues” that needed to be examined. The UN chief “will... certainly... try to see what can be done to improve the situation on the ground,” Haq said. (Excerpt from Times of India)

Nigeria President Buhari: I’ve never been so sick

N

igerian President Muhammadu Buhari has said he has never been “so sick” as he has felt in recent weeks. He was speaking to dignitaries in the capital, Abuja, after returning from seven weeks of medical leave in the UK. His absence led to some anxiety in Nigeria with people speculating about the President’s health.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was left in charge and Buhari’s spokesperson has tweeted that he will formally return to power on Monday.

The 74-year-old flew into an air force base in the northern city of Kaduna from London on Friday morning.

Despite talking about how he felt, Buhari did not reveal any details of his condition.

He did say he was “feeling much better now” but added that further medical checks would be required. At the end of his nine-minute speech, Buhari said that he deliber-

S President Donald Trump has invited Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas for a visit to the White House, according to Palestinian officials. The two men spoke by phone on Friday for the first time since Trump’s inauguration on January 20.

Trump invited Abbas “to visit the White House soon to discuss ways to resume the [Palestinian-Israeli] political process”, Wafa, the official Palestinian news agency, quoted Abbas’ spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina as saying.

There was no immediate

confirmation from the White House about the meeting.

Rudeina said that Trump stressed his “commitment to a peace process that would lead to real peace between Palestinians and Israelis,” Wafa reported.

Abbas told Trump that peace was a “strategic choice” for the Palestinian people which should lead to the “establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel”.

The meeting, the first between the two leaders, is expected to focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as the continued

building of Israeli settlements.

Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are considered illegal under international law and have been major stumbling blocks in negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis. In February, Trump met with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.

During that meeting, Trump broke with decades of US policy by saying he was not bound to the twostate solution for ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Turkey seeks to build Syrian military cooperation with Russia

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resident Tayyip Erdogan sought to build cooperation with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Friday over military operations in Syria, as Turkey attempts to create a border “safe zone” free of Islamic State and the Kurdish YPG militia.

Erdogan, referring to Islamic State’s remaining stronghold, told a joint Moscow news conference with the Russian President “Of course, the real target now is Raqqa”.

Turkey is seeking a role for its military in the advance on Raqqa, but the United States is veering toward enlisting the Kurdish YPG militia – something contrary to Ankara’s aim of banishing Kurdish fighters eastwards across the Euphrates river.

Turkey considers the YPG the Syrian arm of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) that has been fighting an insurrection on Turkish soil for 30 years.

Washington, like Ankara,

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) shakes hands with his Turkish counterpart Tayyip Erdogan during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, March 10, 2017

considers the PKK a terrorist group, but it backs the YPG. Russian-backed forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are also operating in the north of the country, close to Turkish borders.

Washington and Moscow are concerned fast-moving military developments

could lead to serious clashes between Turkish forces and the YPG. “It should now be accepted that a terrorist organization cannot be defeated with another one,” Erdogan said, referring to the enlistment of YPG by the United States to fight Islamic State. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Thai authorities seek to defrock scandal-hit Buddhist abbot

T

President Buhari was speaking to dignitaries in the capital, Abuja, after returning from seven weeks of medical leave in the UK

ately came back towards the weekend “so that the Vice President will continue and I will continue to rest”.

One of his advisers tweeted that he was joking and his office has clarified that the formal constitutional procedure for him to retake the reins of power will happen on Monday. President Buhari was in good spirits, joking

with senior officials and journalists. But as his address went on the President appeared to ramble, referring to the importance of technology and education. He even urged Nigerians not to self-medicate.His every public appearance in the coming days will be scrutinised with an unusual intensity for any signs of weakness. (Excerpt from BBC News)

hailand’s highest religious body has begun a process that could defrock a Buddhist abbot wanted for money laundering, escalating a conflict between the military Government and a hugely popular temple.

The Dhammakaya complex in northern Bangkok has been under siege for nearly three weeks, with more than 4000 Police Officers failing to find the sect’s 72-year-old spiritual leader.

Despite orders to vacate the 1000-acre complex, monks and volunteers have remained. Three searches by police have found noth-

ing.

Phra Dhammachayo is accused of colluding in a £28 million money laundering scheme but has eluded arrest, infuriating the junta, which took power in a 2014 coup. To find him, the Government has invoked special constitutional powers normally intended for national security threats, in what has become a highstakes, face-saving standoff and a national obsession.

Founded in 1970 as a meditation-focused forest retreat on the outskirts of the capital, the temple has grown an extremely dedicated following through savvy marketing, includ-

ing televised sermons and gatherings of hundreds of thousands of devotees.

Phra Pasura Dantamano, an English-speaking monk who has been at the temple for 11 years, said followers were suspicious of the government and felt a sense of ownership over the temple.

The temple declares it is apolitical, but its millions-strong following in Thailand is viewed by the generals who run the country as a threat. The temple has also denied alleged associations with the junta’s main political foe, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

news

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saturdAY, March 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Alleged execution plot thwarted by Police ―3 in custody A Police constable in Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) intercepted a car carrying three men, and later discovered a gun and a stolen motorcycle. Three men are now in police custody, one of them a recently released prison inmate. During interrogation, the men reportedly revealed that they were on their way to execute a Corentyne businessman. Reports are that one of the men, who was on a motorcycle, was seen acting in a suspicious manner while the constable was returning to the Whim Police Station.

This prompted the constable to follow the motorcyclist as the cyclist drove behind a car.

The policeman suspected that something was amiss because the motorcyclist was keeping up with the car but was not attempting to overtake it.

At Albion, the motorcyclist attempted to make a U-turn but collided with the car and fell to the ground. After a brief conversation between the mo-

torcyclist and the car driver, the cyclist hopped into the car and they sped away.

Upon seeing this, the lawman called for backup but continued pursuing the vehicle, which turned into Anamayah Street at Williamsburg then stopped. As the Policeman approached, the driver threw what appeared to be a gun into a nearby trench and attempted to flee, but by then Police backup had arrived and gave pursuit. A .38 revolver was eventually retrieved from the trench.

Divisional Commander Assistant Commissioner Ian Amsterdam told the media that the gun was loaded with four rounds. He said it was also discovered that the motorcycle, which had a false number plate, had been stolen from someone living at Reliance, East Canje on March 5.

“After questioning the (main) suspect, he told us that they had a plan and they were supposed to go and execute it

a Jamaican had hatched the plan, alleging that the targeted businessman had owed him some money and he had arranged the execution of the businessman.

On receipt of that information, two other persons, including the owner of the firearm, were arrested. It is believed that they were all participants in the plot to kill the businessman.

“I understand that the Jamaican has left the country, so we are now making checks to see if that is so, and to track his movements in and out of the country,” the Commander revealed. The Police have since contacted the business-

The stolen motocycle

at Rose Hall (Town), where they were supposed to go and (execute someone and conduct a robbery).” The Commander said his understanding is that

Govt willing to meet with Private Sector – Minister Harmon

M

inister of State Joseph Harmon said the Government is willing to meet with members of the private sector, noting that there are no barriers preventing such a meeting.

Accoring to a Government Information Agency (GINA) report, Harmon said, “We see the private sector as partners in development and once that is recognised then the private sector must not see that they have to go through any hoops to get to Government.”

At Friday’s post Cabinet press briefing, Minister Harmon said the government has been mandated by the President to engage and consult, “And therefore an engagement with the

The gun that was recovered

man, a boutique operator at Rose Hall Town.

Amsterdam said that the Policeman who gave in to his suspicion and followed the men is likely to be promoted

the next time around. He noted that a life has been saved, a firearm has been taken off the streets, and a stolen motorcycle has been recovered.

Teenager killed in EBE accident

A

n East Bank Essequibo (EBE) teen has become the latest road fatality after he reportedly collided with a road construction vehicle in the vicinity of Vergenoegen, on Thursday afternoon.

Dead is Ricardo Edwards, 17, of Vergenoegen Sideline Dam,

EBE. Reports are the young man was riding his pedal cycle and rode into a heavy-duty machine which made a sudden turn on the roadway. As a result of the impact, the teenager fell to the roadway and sustained severe head injuries.

He was picked up and

rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital in an unconscious state but later succumbed to his injuries.

The operator of the machine was taken into Police custody as Police continue their investigations.

Up to February 14, 2017, 13 persons were killed in road accidents.

Flood warning in effect for low-lying areas

T

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

private sector will always be something that is on the card,” Minister Harmon said.

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has recently been critical of the

government’s management of the economy. The PSC said the government should have greater engagement with the business community to stimulate and grow the economy while creating jobs.

he Guyana Hydrometerological Service via the National Weather Watch Center, Ministry of Agriculture has issued an above normal high tide warning within the next 1248 hours.

The release warns that with the sea conditions forecast, coupled with the current above normal high tides, coastal areas may experience possible over-topping of sea defences which can result in flooding in low lying and riverine areas.

This is expected to generate rough seas with 10 to

11-foot waves (3.0 to 3.5 meters) in open waters.

Residents are being urged to take the necessary

precautions during this period which is expected to last until Thursday, March 16, 2017.

news

17

saturDAY, march 11, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Chowtal, Ulaara singing: Transparency Institute reaches The substance of Phagwah out to Linden municipality, RDC ―commences the festival of colours

From left: Stephan Holder, Alfred Bhulai, Keeran Williams and Troy Thomas engaged in discussion

A Youths from Reliance mandir singing chowtaal

C

howtal singing or "jaal clashing", which originated between 1838 and 1917 among indentured workers in India as a good past time of jollyification, has picked up the essence of the season and has complimented Phagwah in Guyana.

Today, chowtal singing has become popular in every temple during the festival of colours and way before the celebration, youths practice verses. In fact, history has proven that Chowtal singing commences the season of Phagwah with various groups, goles, getting together before the actual Phagwah celebration, teaching themselves and practicing to become perfect on the anticipated day.

Chowtal is a special folk song performed during the Phagwah celebrations.

Chowtal, aside from being the name of a "taal" or meter in Hindustani classical music, is a form of folksong of North India's Bhojpuri region, sung by religious leaders during the vernal Phagwah or Holi festival.

Before "Holika Dhaan" is performed, it is customary to have Chowtal samelan organised by various groups, organisations, and temples to usher in the Spring festival. Some groups also compete for at-

tractive prizes during this season as it gives them the opportunity to "clash their jaals the loudest" and beat the drums to the rhythmic tunes. Youths look forward to this and often times they just look out for events, especially samelan, to exposed their singing talents.

Chowtal – the high-pitch songs are usually accompanied by the drums (dholak) and the majeera, producing a rich cultural blend of talent and skill.

Chowtal singing brings forth messages of love, peace, and cultural history.

Each group also dresses in brightly coloured uniforms, turbans, and an assortment of traditional garments symbolic of Indian folk culture.

In chowtal, two rows of singers face each other (semi-circle), with a "dholak" drummer at one end, singing lines of Hindi text. While the melodies are relatively simple, the song undergoes various modulations of rhythm and tempo, alternating between subdued passages and exciting climaxes. Chowtal is generally sung by enthusiasts for their own pleasure, rather than for an audience.

Children also find themselves admiring those in the groups.

Each group comprised of 15 to 20 members and per-

formed for approximately 10 minutes each, showing off their unique singing skills, drumming techniques, jaal clashing techniques and sometimes the sounds are so daring, they are accompanied by performance with special folk dances.

"Chowtal" is in fact an umbrella term for the format, which comprises various subgenres including chowtal proper, jhumar, ulara, lej, baiswara, dhamar, rasiya, kabir, jogira, and others. Popular among the chowtal are "Shiva Shankar Ka Deen Dyala Maha Baradhani", "Ragunandan Awada ah Bharry Kay Shara rang marri" and Holi Kay Dai Ragubeera".

Chowtal singing ushers in the festival of Holi, a festival that is observed with prayers and a rejoicing of ranges of ceremonies. The burning of "Holika" is very symbolic and signifies good over evil. A bonfire is usually built in community centres or recreational grounds and is burnt on the phagwah eve "Holika Dhaan" night.

On Phagwah the spraying of coloured water known as abeer or sprinkling of various coloured powder begins with continuous singing of Chowtal.

Chowtal singing is very popular in Guyana.

s a means of facilitating dialogue aimed at assisting local agencies in tackling transparency and accountability issues, representatives of Transparency Institute Guyana Incorporated (TIGI) met with representatives of the Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) in Linden.

TIGI President, Troy Thomas and one of the Institute’s Directors, Alfred Bhulai, met with LM&TC Councillor Keeran Williams and RDC representative Stephan Holder in the boardroom of the LM&TC to discuss how the agency can provide assistance.

Speaking at the consultation on Wednesday, Bhulai said on one hand, there are Councillors and administrators who work long hours with limited resources, while on the other hand, there are citizens who are of the belief that they are not benefiting enough, more so when there are improvements elsewhere.

“It may just be a matter of sequencing and then the perception would be straightened out. This is what we’re about. We are transparency. We’re hoping to set up some mechanism whereby citizens could see what is going on and Councillors have a medium to demonstrate to citi-

zens...,” he noted.

In responding, Councillor Williams said the Transparency Institute can play a meaningful role in helping to facilitate the conversation between Government agencies and citizens as he stressed the need for bridging the gap to create progressive dialogue.

Williams noted that while local government organs are expected to facilitate that process, often times they become consumed with service delivery. According to Williams, presently some of the greatest challenges include development of a software strategy and access to resources to provide that service; and to be able to provide basic infrastructure as well as social issues. He said it is imperative for local agencies to develop a relationship with the Transparency Institute as a means of narrowing the gap.

Meanwhile, Holder also stressed the need for more interaction and consultation with Non-Governmental Organisations and the public in order for development to take place.

Bhulai also sought to explore what mechanisms can be provided for improvement to take place between local agencies and citizens as it relates to transparency and accountability. He pointed out that in past times, notice boards would have been put up with projects and services along with

the amount of monies allocated in addition to the status of such projects. He further sought to clarify if there were any public displays these days or perhaps a website which persons can consult with. In this vein, he stressed the need for moving towards development of a website for these agencies.

Thomas said the issue of lack of consultation is a recurring theme, while adding that promoting citizen involvement at the local level is a main aim of Transparency Institute. He said there must be a medium where citizens are made aware of the status of projects executed by local bodies.

He added that it is important to consult with citizens on how they can become involved. As such, in the initial step, Thomas said Transparency Institute is starting the process off by having Councillors discuss such issues through various consultations and set an agenda, possibly for the next three years. He said Transparency Institute will also move to identify voluntary community monitors who will provide feedback on what is happening on the ground in relation to transparency and accountability issues as well as to ascertain what are the transparency achievements in the region. Survey information from citizens will also be collected as part of the process. (Utamu Belle)

Guyana blessed to be culturally diverse – Minister Henry

P

hagwah which is ushered in with the burning of Holika, is observed as a national holiday in Guyana and is the Hindu celebration of the spring festival and the dawning of the New Year.

The festival was brought to British Guiana by Hindus who arrived as indentured labourers to work on sugar plantations in the early 1840s.This ceremonial practice is a symbolic representation of the story told in the Hindu scriptures of King Hyranya Kashipu and his son Prahalad which sends the message of triumph of good over evil.

On Friday, the Education Ministry, Department of Culture Youth and Sport hosted its annual observance of

Phagwah or Holi. Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry during brief remarks at the event which was held at the Ministry’s Main Street office, said that Guyana is one of few countries blessed with many cultures.

Minister Henry stated, “May it bring joy, peace, health and wealth to you; may the festivities brighten your lives and those near and dear to you,” Minister Henry said while extending Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese. She expressed hope that Guyanese can appreciate and enjoy each other’s culture, in keeping with the country’s motto, ‘One People, One Nation, and One Destiny’.

Persons were treated to cultural presentations in

A dance group during the cultural presentation at the Department of Culture

the form dance, songs, tassa drumming and a fashion display by members of the Cove and John Ashram.

Meanwhile, President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo also extend-

ed Phagwah greetings to Guyanese.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo stated that, “This year’s celebration coincides with the observance of the 100th Anniversary of the Abolition of Indian

Indentureship. The ending of that system of exploitation of cheap labour, is indeed a triumph of good over evil. We are forever indebted to our Indian ancestors for preserving, against great odds, their religion, their rituals and their festivities, such as Phagwah, and Diwali, Mother Kali Puja and Yesu Kathas, Eidul-Adha, Youman Nabi, as well as other Christian ceremonies.”

The Prime Minister added that, “Though we face our challenges, we must all work together to overcome them, and to realise our common hope for the good life for all.” President David Granger speaking at a recent mela and cultural event hosted by the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh to

mark the 100th year since the abolition of Indian indentureship in Guyana, declared that there will be three national days of observance.

On March 12, President Granger is expected to officially announce that day as a national day of observance. The following day (March 13), Guyana will observe 104 years since the Rose Hall Estate Massacre where 15 persons were killed. That event is usually observed on different days in March each year.

The Head of State said that on May 3, the Government will officially declare that day as Portuguese Day since that is the day that ethnic group arrived in what was then British Guiana.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturDAY, march 11, 2017

ARCHIE

Keep your personal life and business affairs secret.

(March 21- Emotional issues will infilApril 19) trate your professional life if you are too transparent.

Listen, observe and avoid gossip.

ARIES

You’ll be interested in the TAURUS things a loved one or child en(April 20- joys doing. Your participation May 20) will bring you closer together. If you share your feelings, you’ll resolve anything that’s been bothering you.

dilbert

Emotional situations will GEMINI develop if someone isn’t being (May 21- honest. You are best off quesJune 20) tioning rather than assuming and offering facts instead of being evasive. Relationships will require work and understanding.

Someone will confuse you by sending mixed signals.

(June 21- When in doubt, be blunt and July 22) find out exactly where you stand. A cultural event or retreat will be enlightening.

CANCER

Peanuts

Share your ideas and emoLEO tions, and make suggestions (July 23that will help solve problems Aug. 22) involving older family members or badly managed situations. Honesty is your best policy.

You can spin things in VIRGO your favor if you offer practi(Aug. 23Sept. 22) cal solutions to financial, legal or medical issues that develop when dealing with a partner, institutions or government agencies.

Calvin and Hobbes

Problems concerning a LIBRA friend, relative or legal matter (Sept. 23will surface.

Don’t share your Oct. 23) feelings regarding issues that could end up hurting your reputation or bank account.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Offering frank opinions and SAGITTARIUS straightforward answers will (Nov. 23- help you avoid misinterpretaDec. 21) tion. Emotional manipulation will be viewed harshly. Stick to the truth and avoid conflict and accusations of meddling.

TODAY’S WORD — TENURED (TENURED: TEN-yerd: Having the right to keep office, position, etc.)

Average mark 25 words Time limit 35 minutes Can you find 36 or more words in TENURED? The list will be published on Monday THURSDAY’S WORD — JEROBOAM jamb ream roam robe room oboe bare barm beam

bear berm boar boom boomer boor bore bream broom

amber major mare mojo moor mora more

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Keep your emotions in SCORPIO check when mulling over (Oct. 24work-related matters. It’s best Nov. 22) not to get upset. Look for a workable solution and present it in an innovative way if you want to excel.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Do your own thing and CAPRICORN be accountable for the choic(Dec. 22es you make.

Avoid anyone Jan. 19) trying to take advantage of your position or connections.

Protect what you’ve acquired.

Don’t hesitate to stop AQUARIUS someone from prying into (Jan. 20your personal affairs. Do Feb. 19) what you can to help others, but not at the expense of your reputation or bank account.

PISCES Don’t let uncertainty lead (Feb. 20- to impulse. You must stabiMarch 20) lize a situation before you can turn it into something workable. Trust in your wisdom and intuition to help you make the best decision.

saturDAY, march 11, 2017

19

Barcelona, Real Madrid set for El Clasico in Miami

De Villiers back at No. 1 in ODI rankings

S

outh Africa's AB de Villiers has displaced Australia's David Warner at the top of the ICC rankings for ODI batsmen. This the tenth time de Villiers has climbed to the top since 2010 - when he first went to No. 1 - and this latest stint comes after he top scored in the recently concluded series in New Zealand.

De Villiers had scored 262 runs in the five-match series at 87.33, including two fifties. As per an ICC release, he has never been ranked outside the top-five ODI batsmen since September 2009.

India's Virat Kohli remains at No. 3 behind de Villiers and Warner, while England's Joe Root has jumped four places to No. 4. following scored of 4, 90 not out and 101 in the Caribbean.

De Villiers' team-mate, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, broke into the top five of the ODI bowling rankings for the first time, slotting in behind Imran Tahir, Sunil Narine, Mitchell Starc and Trent Boult. Following his haul of 10 at 11.50 with an economy rate of 3.57 in the five-match series in Zimbabwe, Afghanistan offspinner Mohammad Nabi has climbed three spots to reach a career-best No. 7. England pacer Chris Woakes has jumped nine placed to No. 9 - the first time he is in the top 10 - courtesy his successes against West Indies. (Cricinfo)

H

ard Rock Stadium, home of NFL side Miami Dolphins, will host Barcelona v Real Madrid as part of the International Champions Cup on July 29.

Barcelona and Real Madrid will face each other in Miami as part of the International Champions Cup in July – marking the first time El Clasico will take place in the United States.

Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, home of the NFL team the Miami

Former F1 world champion dies at 83 Guptill ruled

Dolphins, will host the LaLiga rivals on July 29.

The only previous BarcaMadrid meeting outside Spain came in 1982, with Los Blancos winning 1-0 in Venezuela thanks to a goal from Vicente del Bosque.

Barcelona were among a number of leading clubs to take part in the 2016 ICC, with games in the pre-season tournament played at 19 venues across the United States, Europe, Australia and China. (Sportsmax)

out for six weeks

John Surtees pictured with four-time F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel at the 2015 British Grand Prix

F

ormer Formula 1 and motorcycling world champion John Surtees has died at the age of 83.

Surtees is the only man to have won the grand prix world championship on both two wheels and four.

He won four 500cc motorcycling titles in 1956, 1958, 1959 and 1960 - and the F1 crown with Ferrari in 1964.

Surtees died at St George's Hospital, London, on Friday afternoon after being treated for an existing respiratory condition, a family statement said.

"We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life," the statement added.

Legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker told Radio 5 live: "It's an absolute hammer blow for me and for British motorsport in general.

"I have been privileged to commentate on him and to know him as a friend and he's undoubtedly one of the greatest people who's ever lived in the history of motorsport."

Surtees was awarded an MBE in 1959, the same year he won the Sports Personality of the Year award, the OBE in 2009 and the CBE in 2016.

John Surtees pictured with four-time

F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel at the 2015 British Grand Prix He won six F1 races in 111 starts between 1960 and 1972, and also drove for Honda, Lotus, Cooper, Lola and BRM. Surtees was world champion in the 350cc motorcycling category as well as 500cc from 1958-60.

He later set up his own F1 team and was behind the wheel when it made its debut at the 1970 British Grand Prix at Brands Hatch.

Team Surtees managed two podium finishes but never won a race before folding in 1978.

Surtees went on to become chairman of the British team in the now-defunct A1 Grand Prix series, while his son Henry began competing in Formula Two but was killed in an accident at Brands Hatch in 2009, aged 18.

The family set up the Henry Surtees Foundation in aid of people recovering from brain and physical injuries and to support motorsport-related educational programmes.

Surtees remained involved in motor racing into his eighties, competing in classic car and bike events up until last year. (BBC)

M

artin Guptill will miss the remainder of the New Zealand season and the start of the IPL to undergo strengthening work on his hamstrings in an attempt to ensure he is fully fit for the Champions Trophy in

June.

Guptill suffered injuries to both hamstrings in quick succession over the last few months and though he returned in extraordinary style, with his unbeaten 180 off 138 balls in the fourth ODI against South Africa, it has been decided that for his long-term prognosis he needs further rehabilitation.

After his century in Hamilton, and a full fifty overs in the field, Guptill said the hamstrings felt "a little stiff" but that it was nothing unexpected after his period out of the game. He did not have any middle time before his return to the one-day side.

He will travel to India for the IPL, where he was bought by Kings Punjab XI having been put back in for the second round of the auction, but won't initially be available for selection and his recovery will be monitored by New Zealand physio Tommy Simsek, who will also be at the tournament.

"At the moment Martin isn't fit to play and the time we give him now to strengthen his hamstrings will play a big role in mitigating future risk too," Simsek said. "We've put a programme in place to make sure that Martin can return to full strength and we'll continue to monitor him closely."

Mike Hesson, the New Zealand coach, said: "Having Martin fully fit is critical, as we all know the positive influence he has on our side. Martin knows this is an important period to get back to 100% so that he can be fully confident when he is on the park. The Champions Trophy isn't far away and we obviously want Martin firing on all cylinders for that tournament."

Guptill's times back on the sidelines means his move into the middle order for Auckland, with a view to pushing for a Test recall in that position, will not happen until the next domestic season. It also means that he will not come into consideration if New Zealand need a replacement for Ross Taylor who retired hurt on the second day in Dunedin with a calf injury. Guptill was dropped from the Test side after the tour of India in October. (Cricinfo)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturDAY, march 11, 2017

Dave West Indian Imports/ GCB Under-15 Inter-County

Dave West Indian Imports renew sponsorship D

ave West Indian Imports has renewed its sponsorship of the Guyana Under-15 Inter-County Competition, making it the second consecutive year that Dave West Indian Imports is on board with the GCB for this competition.

Four teams are being featured in this competition; namely, the three county teams and the GCB President’s XI team.

Upon completion of this tournament, a select national Under-15 team will compete in the Under-17 Inter-County championships.

At a simple ceremony held at the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Office on Regent Road, Bourda, where officials from Dave West Indian Imports – a leading Guyanese company which imports products from New York and territories in the Caribbean – was present, Secretary of the GCB, Anand Sanasie, pointed out that the decision to play a select team in the inter-county tournament of an older age group has produced dividends and has served as excellent preparation for regional tournaments.

He thanked Dave West Indian Imports for partnering with the GCB again, and said he trusts that the company would continue its invaluable contribution to this critical U-15 development category.

Chairman of the Competition Committee, Colin Europe, explaining the points system, said six points would be awarded for a win, two points for a washed out or abandoned match, and 0.1 point for each fast bowling wicket.

Cliff Joseph from Dave West Indian

The teams are: DEMERARA: Shoib Shaw, Mahindra Dindyal, Chad Shivrattan, Edmond Pearson, Andre Seepersaud, Daniel Mootoo, Mark Ramanand , Chandrapaul Ramraj, Trevon Charles, Negusa Walters, Devanand Khemraj, Ryan Persaud, Ushardev Balgobin, and Brandon Jaikarran. The Manager is Latchman Yadram and the Coach is Dhanpaul BERBICE: Sarwan Chaitnarine, Daniel Dharamdat, Ricardo Ramdial, Reyad Karim, Vikash Subramani, Marvan Prashad, Anthony Williams, Farouk Subhan, Andel Milne, Abdur Ramsammy, Akash Heralall, Saif Amoi, Romel Retimyah and Gourav Ramesh. The Manager is Asif Japaul and the Coach is Kwesi Maltay.

ESSEQUIBO: Sheldon Charles, Devindra Ramdahin, Oren Gibson, Ronaldo Scouten, Raphael David, Manoj Dasraat, Chaitram Seurattan, Wasim Mohamed, Presentation of sponsorship being handed to GCB Official by Cliff Joseph in the presence of other Ardesh Ramdial, Mark Mohabir, Sunil GCB Officials Persaud, Inzamam Bacchus, Shawn Monro, Imports expressed satisfaction with the out- ance they are apt to go far. He posited that and Tyrone Brandon. The Manager is standing hosting and performance of last Dave West Indian Imports believes highly Vickram Ramnarine and the Coach is year’s inter-county. He also praised the na- in the youngsters’ talents and potential and Forbes Daniels.

GCB PRESIDENT’S XI: Elnathan tional U-15 for their excellent showing at in have every confidence that they would once Suknandan, Shammar Yearwood, Joel the regional competition which they placed again excel at the regional level this year.

Gilkes, Zachariah Mootoo, Alex Arinda, second after they held first in the previous The present fixtures have the competiSai Haniff, Raynaldo Mohamed, Yadesh two years. He indicated that Dave West tion to bowl off on Tuesday, March 14 with Ronaldo Duraws, Zamal Indian Imports is pleased to be associat- the second round on Wednesday March 15, Persaud, ed with the GCB in helping to develop the third round on Friday March 17 and the fi- Ramsammy, Ezana Saaziam, Pravenand U-15s who are among the youngest talents nal on Sunday March 19. However with the Ganesh, Ken George, Danny Atkinson, and Tamone Ceasar. The Manager is Reon King in the country, noting that with proper guid- persistent rain, the fixture could change. and the Coach is Orin Bailey.

Joseph’s career best Tallawahs upstage Walton’s century GM happy

C

hadwick Walton marked his record Hero Caribbean Premier League contract with a commanding century for Jamaica Scorpions but it was fast bowler Keon Joseph with career best figures of 7-53 and teenage prodigy Shimron Hetmyer unbeaten on 51, who inspired Guyana Jaguars’ dominance at the end of day one of the sixth round of Cricket West Indies Digicel Regional Four Day Competition.

Walton, who went to the Guyana Amazon Warriors for US$110,000 in Hero CPL draft, led Scorpions to 255 all out with a top score of 101.

In reply Jaguars are well placed on 69 without loss, with Hetmyer is Tagenarine Chanderpaul unbeaten on 14.

Romario Shepherd collected two wickets on debut for the Jaguars while Gudakesh Motie Kanhai claimed the other wicket for the Jaguars.

Petra/Milo U-18 School’s Football…

Bishops’ High seeking to continue winning ways B

ishops’ High will come up against St. Roses High from 14:00 hrs. in one of four matches to be held as the Petra-organised Milo Schools Under-18 Football Championships continue today at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

The Carmichael Street unit would be riding the crest of self-confidence, having recently pulled off a stunning comefrom-behind 2-1 victory over Ann’s Grove in a match held in a torrential downpour. Roses, on the other hand, would be engaged in the unenviable task of trying to rebound from an eight-goal thumping received from the hands of Masters Academy.

Defending champions Chase Academy would also be in action against North Ruimveldt Secondary from 15:30 hrs.

The other two matches pit Ann’s Grove against Master’s Academy from 11:00 hrs, and St. Joseph High against Buxton Academy from 12:30 hrs.

East Ruimveldt Secondary meets St. Mary’s Secondary on Sunday from 11:00 hrs, while St. John’s College and Pure Master lock horns from 12:30 hrs. Lodge Secondary will tackle Kingston Secondary from 14:00 hrs, after which Morgan’s Learning Centre will face Tucville Secondary.

Thirty-two secondary schools across Georgetown are competing for the $500,000 first prize on offer in this tournament; while second, third and fourth place finishers will The tournament continues to intensify, with exciting action pocket $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively – mon- each weekend at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta ey that will go towards a school project.

Avenue in Georgetown

with draft picks

H

aving lost several key players from last season’s winning campaign in the Hero CPL, Mohammed Khan, the General Manager of the Jamaica Tallawahs, said he is happy with the players he got in the 2017 CPL Draft held in Barbados on Thursday.

He is confident the players drafted will be good enough to make the Tallawahs, the 2016 champions, competitive and expects them to win.

The Tallawahs lost Chris Gayle to the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots, Andre Russell to a doping suspension and Chadwick Walton to the Guyana Amazon Warriors, but in the acquisition of Lendl Simmons and others, he said, the Tallawahs have brought in players that are good enough to help the franchise successfully defend its title.

“Lendl is the best local player in the draft,” Khan said of the player the Tallawahs signed for US$160,000. “He is also an opener and is younger than Chris as well. He is a good opener who has done well in the IPL and for the West Indies. He is going to

Lendl Simmons will turn out for the Jamaica Tallawahs in the CPL 2017

b e very important for us.”

The Tallawahs GM said he is also happy with the other selections.

“Every single player is someone who we wanted to be here. Odean Smith; Kennar Lewis, who has been overlooked by the Jamaica Cricket Association but is a very good player; Gidron Pope.” said Khan, who also drafted 36-year-old Pakistani seamer Mohammad Sami for $90,000, and retained Imad Wasim.

“They are young but we still expect to win. If we are not in the final I would be very disappointed.”

He revealed that he is to retain his coaching staff of Paul Nixon, Mark O’Donnell and Andrew Richardson with the hope of finding sweet success this coming season that begins in August.

“I am looking forward to the season and expect to repeat,” he said. (Sportsmax)

YELLOW PAGES

sports

saturdAY, March 11, 2017 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

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First CPL selection a reward for my hard work-Gajanand Singh

BY Delvon McEwan

G

uyanese batsman Gajanand Singh will be involved in the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for the first time after being bought by Guyana Amazon Warriors for US$7,500 at the draft for the fifth edition of the League in Barbados on Friday.

It is an initial breakthrough for the talented left handed batsman subsequent to two previous entrance in drafts where he went unsold. A moment he has eagerly anticipated.

“I’ve been in the draft for three years now and before that, when I was in the USA, I always wanted to play but circumstances were different then and I’m really looking forward to the tournament.”

His selection comes approximately two months after a superb display at the University of the West Indies (UWI) T20 tournament in Trinidad and Tobago where he scored 328 runs from five innings, only getting out once, as he guided Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) to the final of that tournament rounding off a good year for the 29 year old Berbician, who is ecstatic about his selection to compete in Warriors’ colours.

“It’s definitely been a good year, I’m really happy….ecstatic at this moment knowing that I’m blessed with the opportunity to represent Guyana Amazon Warriors at the CPL this year”, said Singh, who also stated that it is no surprise he was rewarded for his hard work and progress shown over the past dozen months, with the biggest contributing factor for his selection being his performance for DCC in Trinidad.

Singh was lost in the mix after his last first class outing in 2011, however, now that he is back in the mix he plans to give a more productive efforts to fulfil his dream. He plans to get down to business with his bat.

As early as youth cricket Singh was earmarked as one for the future, however, after

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Gajanand Singh playing at the ICC U-19 Youth World Cup and debuting at the first class level two years later, he faded from the scene. There were always concerns of his absence from the local scene. Nevertheless after a hiatus from the game he resumed playing in professional leagues outside of Guyana and due to his strides in those leagues he was encouraged to pursue his original dream which is to play at the international level.

Every step he takes he is getting closer and he believes once he is given a fair opportunity he will reached there quickly base on self-application and maturity.

Singh was tuned into the draft from the time it started, watching it live on social media in his home in Trinidad where he is staying for his stint with Central Sports Club in the Premier Division One League.

He is grateful for the support from his family, friends and players. Special mention was made of DCC for believing in him and giving him the opportunity to play in the UWI T20 tournament.

Guyana Times Sport in January featured Singh in its Sport Column “Lost in the Mix” because he fell in a category of talented players, who either vanish off the scenes or are not being properly utilized by the Cricket Administrators. There was also an exclusive in this paper on January 19 which focus on the player’s return to cricket and development. We at this publication would love to wish Singh the best on his new journey.

CBJ memorial takes to the West Side on Sunday

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21

T

he excitement of the 20th cycling memorial in honor of the late President of Guyana, Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan will continue this Sunday when the top wheelsmen take to the starting line.

The first of the three races honoring the late president was held in the ancient county of Berbice and will now ride off from 08:00h at the Wales Police Station with riders proceeding to Bushy Park Parika and turn around to conclude at the Demerara Harbour Bridge, completiting a 50 mile journey.

Hamza Eastman who rides for Team Coco’s is the defending champion, winning the race in 2015 and currently the number one ranked cyclist in the senior category as Christopher Griffith won the junior division and Junior Niles won the Veterans category.

Eastman will be up for some grueling competition with a number of cyclists finding their form so far, particularly Linden Bauxite Flyers’ Shaquel Agard who has

won the first leg of the event where the race commenced in New Amsterdam, proceeded to No. 55 Village, and returned to Port Mourant last Sunday.

Amongst those in contention for this event include Eastman’s club mates; Stephano “Sunny” Husbands who won the last Three-Stage meet in February as well as Jamaul John who has been exceptional.

It is expected that Team Evolution’s Paul deNobrega be a strong contender for the title due to his subliminal form since the year began. Also, young We Stand United Andrew Hicks has impressed since moving over to the Seniors Division, already securing a win in this group.

Evolution’s Raul Leal is one who is ear marked to make a return to the saddle and after speaking with this publication, Leal intends to make a comeback over the weekend following being sideline for over three months.

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturdAY, march 11, 2017

Name: Sohail Tanvir Price: $160,000 Role: Bowler CPL wickets: 34 CPL runs: 340

Name Chadwick Walton Price: $110,000 Role: Wicketkeeper/ Batsman CPL runs: 947

Name: Rashid Khan Price: $60,000 Role: Bowler

Name: Martin Guptil Price: $130,000 Role: Batsman CPL runs: 985

Name: Chris Lynn Price: $90,000 Role: Batsman CPL runs: 621

Name: Jason Mohammed Price: $40,000 Role: Batsman CPL runs: 355

Name: Rayad Emrit Price: $70,000 Role: All Rounder CPL wickets: 50 CPL runs: 76

Name: Steven Taylor Price: $30,000 Role: Batsman CPL runs: 125

Name: Veerasammy Permaul Price: $15,000 Role: Bowler CPL wickets: 31 CPL runs: 73

Name: Roshon Primus Price: $10,000 Role: All Rounder

Name: Gajanand Singh Price: $7,500 Role: Batsman

Name: Asad Fudadin Price: $7,500 Role: Batsman CPL runs: 123

Name: Keon Jospeh Price: $5,000 Role: Bowler

Name: Steven Jacobs Price: $5,000 Role: All Rounder CPL wickets: 7 CPL runs: 14

Name: Steven Katwaroo Price: $4,000 Role: Wicketkeeper

Name: Shimron Hetmyer Price: $3,000 Role: Batsman

Name: Ali Khan Price: $2,000 Role: Bowler

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017

23

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2017

Walton, Khan among big names for Amazon Warriors – Barnwell goes to Tridents

By John Ramsingh in Barbados

T

he sounding of the conch shell from the sunny beach of the Lone Star Hotel in Barbados at 10:00h on Friday signaled the start of the first major event for Hero Caribbean Premier League 2017, the Player Draft. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by sweet steel pan music, Carnival models and pom pom girls who gave the unique feeling that is only associated with the biggest party in sport.

Prior to the well-organized event, the six franchise teams preparing for the fifth edition of the Hero CPL were allowed to retain as much players as possible from the 2016 segment while there were two transfers. On the eve of the Player Draft, each franchise named their marquee players with Kane Williamson (Tridents), Martin Guptill (Guyana Amazon Warriors), Lasith Malinga (Stars), Chris Morris (Patriots), Kumar Sangakkara (Tallawahs) and Brendon McCullum (Trinbago Knight Riders) being unveiled early during the proceedings as round one picks.

The 2016 winning Captain, Chris Gayle was transferred from the Jamaica Tallawahs to the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots as their big signing for US$160,000. Which forced the champions’ camp to opt for CPL’s most successful batsman, Lendl Simmons as their top buy for US$160,000.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors and St. Lucia Stars retained nine players from 2016, St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots retained 10, Tallawahs and Tridents 11 each while Trinbago Knight Riders had the most repeat players with 12. The high numbers meant that not much was left for team at the biggest draft in the tournament’s short history.

Since the Tallawahs were without Gayle, they opted for a solid opener in Simmons at the top who is the most expensive pick of the draft and was taken in round two for US$160,000.

Round three had a two jaw dropping picks with Patriots going for Australian all-rounder, Ben Cutting for US$110,000. The Amazon Warriors then strategically picked up their most fancied domestic pick in wicketkeeper batsman Chadwick Walton who previously played for the Tallawahs. Walton will add to the top order strength of 2016 Captain Martin Guptill of New Zealand who was retained for US$110,000 and Australian Chris Lynn (US$90,000). Trinidadians Rayad Emrit, Jason

The hard working CPL team after a successful player’s draft

Mohammed and Steven Katwaroo are also retained along Veerasammy Permaul, Steven Jacobs and Assad Fudadin of Guyana.

History was made in round four when Mohammad Nabi became the first player from Afghanistan to be selected for CPL when he was picked by the Patriots for US$90,000.

Already missing Gayle, Walton and Andre Russell who is facing a one year anti-doping ban, the Tallawahs went for Pakistani fast bowler Muhammad Sami in round five at a price of US$70,000.

As was the case in the IPL auction in December, Nabi is joined by countryman Rashid Khan who was taken in round six by the Amazon Warriors who were represented by team Operations Manager, Omar Khan and

Riaz followed by Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) who went for 18-year old Pakistani spinner Shadab Khan. Stuart Williams, Head Coach of the St. Lucia Stars then opted for a star player in Marlon Samuels while the Amazon Warriors grabbed Steven Taylor who has CPL and Super50 experience.

Round nine raised a few eye brows with TKR going for rookie left arm spinner from Queen’s park Oval, Kharry Pierre followed by the Stars pick of Pakistan’s Kamran Akmal then the Patriots choice of Jamaican Brandon King.

Round 10 had three picks with all-rounders Rakheem Cornwall, Roshon Primus and Christopher Barnwell being snapped up for US$10,000 each. The Antiguan Cornwall will suit up for the Stars while Primus will be in the

Guyana Amazon Warriors Head Coach Roger Harper and Operation Manager Omar Khan considering the option Head Coach Roger Harper.

Mohammad Khan, the General Manager of the Tallawahs then picked West Indies under-19 winning all-rounder Gidron Pope for US$40,000. The GM of the Tallawahs said later that, Pope and Simmons were selected mainly as replacements for Gayle and Walton.

Four team s had picks at US$30,000 in round eight and it was the Barbados Tridents who picked up Pakistan’s fast bowler Wahab

Amazon Warriors camp. As if to get back at the Amazon Warriors for taking the Barbados-born Primus, the Tridents immediately announced that Barnwell will be their choice.

After an impressive run of form recently, former West Indies U-19 batsman Gajanand Singh was roped in by the Amazon Warriors at the start of round 11 while Kyle Mayers goes to the Stars and left arm Yorker specialist, Krishmar Santokike goes to the Tallawahs for

US$7,500 each. Jamaican leg spinner, Damion Jacobs was the lone pick by the Tridents in round 12.

Four players were then picked in round 13 for US$5,000 with South African Eddie Leie going to the Stars, Fabian Allen to the Patriots, speedster Keon Joseph to the Warriors and Kenar Lewis to the Tallawahs. Like Singh, Joseph has been impressive recently and is duly rewarded for their hard work and commitment.

The Tridents picked Ryan Wiggins while Andre Mc Carthy will play for the Tallawahs after being snapped up in round 14 at US$5,000. Then came a few surprises in the final round of the draft.

Colin Borde who represented the TKR submitted veteran Australian left arm spinner Brad Hogg’s name which was initially rejected by the host, Michael Hall who cited that Hogg is in the draft with a reserved fee of US$70,000 and the US$4,000 offer was not accepted. That decision was later reversed after a consultation with the auditors. Promising rookie fast bowler Jermiah Louis was then taken by the Patriots then the Tridents opted for Tino Best which brought uproar from the audience since Best will be in the same team with Kieron Pollard and Shoaib Malik whom he had previous runins with in CPL. Sunil Ambris for the Stars and O’Dean Smith for the Tallawahs then completed the player draft system.

Four of the franchises retained their ICC Americas players while Akeem Dodson will go to the Tridents and Tamil Patel to the Stars.

In keeping with retaining players from 2016, a decision was made to retain the previous Under-19 players but to extend the age limit to Under-20. However, the Stars were forced to pick Obed McCoy after Gidron Pope was selected by the Tallawahs.

The Amazon Warriors features six new faces who have replaced Dwayne Smith, Adam Zampa, Barnwell, Nic Maddison, Orlando Peters, Anthony Bramble and Paul Wintz.

The fifth edition of the Hero CPL is expected to bowl off on August 1 at a venue to be announced while the final will be on September 9 also at a venue to be announced.

However, matches will be played in the homes of the six franchises and in Fort Lauderdale Florida after a successful introduction in 2016 to North America.

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2017

Pg 23

Steven Taylor

Chadwick Walton

West Indies Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adams (centre) with Guyana Amazon Warriors Operation Omar Khan and Coach Roger Harper

Rashid Khan

Keon Jospeh

Roshon Primus

Gajanand Singh

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