Linden man in stable condition following shooting incident
Magistrate forced to dismiss domestic violence case DPP rubbishes Kaieteur News' report on retrial of PM’s son's – says it remains independent, governed by Guyana’s laws
Supporters of People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the Bartica rally with candidate Mae Thomas (second right)
By Gomatie GanGadin
Former Member of Parliament for the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Africo Selman, who has since mounted the political platform for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), says that the exclusion of her former colleague, Vanessa Kissoon from the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)led APNU and Alliance For Change (AFC) coalition list of candidates for the upcoming General and Regional Elections is not surprising but was rather expected.
The list was submitted to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Tuesday when Nomination Day was held at City Hall. However, it had to be adjusted after the Elections Commission indicated to the APNU+AFC coalition that
there was a need for more women representatives to be included on the list.
Of the 75 persons who were named on the list which was submitted on Tuesday, only 19 were women.
The APNU and the AFC subsequently added 11 more members after GECOM had found fault with the list,
bringing the total number to 96, but it is still unclear, how many of the 11 are women. While, the list was the most talked about by the party, Kissoon’s name was noticeably absent.
When questioned by media operatives on why Kissoon’s name was not present on the party’s official list of candidates for the upcoming election, Leader and Presidential Candidate David Granger responded stating that Kissoon had already served two terms and as such, the decision was taken to not include her.
He refused to comment when it was pointed out that several others such as Amna Ally had already also served two terms and were still on the list.
He also refused to divulge whether Ms Kissoon was officially consulted on the decision and what had been her response.
Expected decision
However, speaking to Guyana Times via telephone on Saturday evening, Selman related that the decision taken by the party was not particularly surprising but was rather expected since there was no place in the party for those who dared to challenge the
leadership. She noted that those like Kissoon who dared to challenge the party’s leadership are often times victimised and this was a clear case of this.
“I didn’t expect Vanessa to be on the list. I don’t even think Vanessa expected to on be on the list. She has had a lot of challenges with the party’s leadership; she has a lot of confrontations with Amna Ally and there has been vindictiveness towards her, so I really wasn’t surprised to see that she was not on the list… she is being victimised because she would have been involved in controversial matters in the party and she has em-
barrassed the Presidential Candidate David Granger,” Selman related. The former member of the APNU further related to Guyana Times that the excuse which was given by Presidential Candidate David Granger for Kissoon’s absence on the list was too “flawed and weak”. She too noted that the list submitted by the party consisted of persons, who had served more than two terms but these were not excluded.
“Mr Granger’s argument is very flawed and weak. The list has numerous persons who have served more than two terms; people like Volda Lawrence who has been there since 1992 I think; Amna Ally who has been there since 1985, Jennifer Wade… Mr Granger’s statement is an attack on the intelligence of Guyanese…,” said Selman.
Vindictiveness
She noted also that the fact that that party has had to adjust its list to include more women was clear evidence for the allegations she had made against the party that women were not respected while pointing out that despite adding 11 more persons to the list, Kissoon was still not included stating that “… it clearly shows vindictiveness.
Africo Selman
Vanessa Kissoon
Sunday Editor: Michael Younge
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
With the “rally component” of the PPP/C and the PNC-led APNU/AFC’s elections campaign launched, the Guyanese electorate have a taste of what lies ahead.
This election will be the sixth elections held under rules insisted on by the international community and domestic Opposition forces after two decades of rigged elections by the People’s National Congress Government and party. Free and fair elections had been returned to Guyana.
Free and fair elections are the sine qua non of democracy: a democracy may aspire to more, but it cannot have less. The people of Guyana can be proud that a democratic tradition is now entrenched in our country – Government of the people, by the people and for the people.
Free and fair elections cannot be taken for granted. What free and fair elections establish is the “consent of the governed”.
The people of our country will freely choose those that would be at the helm of the Government to steer the ship of state for another five years. A Government may make mistakes; some may stray from the principles on which they were elected; the people may simply believe that they want to see new faces, but unless there are free and fair elections, the people have no choice but to go along with the status quo – as occurred for 28 long years.
But today in Guyana, we all have a choice.
To retain choice, we have had to heed our history on elements of our elections that were once problematised. There is the matter of the voters list which in most democracies would occasion absolutely no comment.
During the period of routine elections rigging, manipulation of the list by the PNC was a stratagem for “gaming” the result. Voting by the dead was routine and in one notorious instance, horses in England were enfranchised to vote in Guyana.
Against this background, the leader of the PNC and the APNU/AFC coalition has declared at the last moment that the present list to be “dirty”. This is very troubling because it is widely felt that this may be a pretext for challenging the results of the elections. This has been the practice of the PNC starting from 1992 onwards and has led to disturbances after every election.
Counting of votes at the place of poll is another routine matter that is unremarked in other jurisdictions but of great significance here.
In 1973, soldiers swooped down on polling stations, snatched ballot boxes and transported them to Army headquarters at Camp Ayanganna, where they were sequestered and “counted”.
According to the CIA Factbook, “The PNC apparently had expected to receive a large number of votes in its traditional Georgetown strongholds and initially had allowed a fair count in districts there. When early results showed a low voter turnout, the PNC called on the GDF to intervene.”
While the Army has been commendably professional since 1992, Brigadier David Granger’s accession to the leadership of the PNC (his opponents claim through rigged party elections) and his recruitment of hundreds of ex-servicemen to now dominate the PNC has raised grave concerns.
The 1973 GDF operation included the killing by soldiers of two civilians seeking to protect the ballot boxes and the accidental discharge of a Policeman’s gun resulting in the death of his civilian driver. Yet Granger, the military historian described the soldier’s actions as “splendid”.
The CIA Factbook explains Granger’s rise in the army six years later: “The PNC’s increasing politicization and subordination of the GDF disturbed many members of the officer corps. When some expressed a desire for military neutrality, PNC informants in the armed forces alerted Burnham to the dissension within the GDF.
“In August 1979, Colonel Ulric Pilgrim, the Operational Force Commander, and Colonel Carl Morgan, a Battalion Commander, were dismissed. Burnham appointed a PNC loyalist, Colonel David Granger, commander of the GDF.” Guyanese await Granger’s decisions after the May 11 elections.
People do anything for power, including showing contempt for ethnicity
Dear Editor,
In pursuance of power, people can do anything, even showing contempt for their ethnicity.
From birth, ethnicity takes precedence over any other form of identification since it precedes your nationality. So, to deny your ethnicity in order to co-habit with the devil in pursuit of power is the height of hypocrisy.
To support my argu-
ment, let me illustrate two practical cases where ethnicity takes precedence over nationality.
Firstly, if you are a couple of one race and the husband suspects his pregnant wife of having an affair with another race, it is obvious at birth ethnicity will be used to justify his suspicion, or not, apart from DNA testing in case of doubt.
Secondly, if the Police need assistance from the
public to capture two low profile criminals named Sharma Bencock and Arqueth Kissoon, what criteria would they use to describe them for purpose of identification, given that their names are already ‘confusing’?
Would they say two Guyanese criminals are on the loose and the Police need your assistance in capturing them, or would they describe them in terms of
ethnicity?
In Guyana, people are free to plait their hair to look like a Rastafarian or alienate themselves from their ethnicity in pursuit of political largesse, but you cannot expect ethnic support if you mingle with the sheep and dance with the wolves.
For me, I am extremely proud to be an East Indian.
D Singh
Opposition can’t think logically
Dear Editor, The APNU+AFC and their media operatives have identified eight persons out of the list of some 150 national and geographic candidatesas being family members of “past and present” senior PPP/C officials.
Illogically, the APNU+AFC and their media operatives expect the public to accept their spurious view that the offspring of the PPP/C should never get involved in the political struggle for national development.
The illogicality of the view is definitive by analogy since it would mean that the child of a senior of-
ficer in a business/company would never be able to work in that business/company.
The reality is quite the opposite: most parents who own businesses have at least some degree of expectation of their children assisting in that business.
Further, upon closer examination of the identified persons would reveal that the identified persons are young qualified professionals, for example, Ranvir Gajraj – a medical doctor, Thandi Luncheon – a medical doctor, Cand Rabindranauth Chandarpaul – an Engineer, and I – an
Attorney at Law.
Also if it was the case of nepotism then why would the national top up and geographic list of some 150 plus persons contain only these eight children of past and present senior officials of the PPP/C?
Are they trying to also say that all the PPP/C past and present leadership has only been able to produce eight children over the course of some 65 years of existence?
The accusationof the PPP/C nepotism is a red herring in an attempt to deflect questions from the APNU+AFC list of candidates which contains
some persons of a criminal nature some of whom have been arrested and charged and brought before the criminal courts or whom have had court orders against them for libel. It is also a red herring in an attempt to deflect from the fact that the APNU+AFC list does not represent the youth and future that is claimed to be their platform for this 2015 election.
Almost 50 per cent of the PPP/C’s list of candidates are under the age of 45 and over 25 per cent are under the age of 35.
Charles Ramson Jnr
These pretty ladies were getting all prepped and ready to take part in the hat show hosted by the Inner Wheel Club on Saturday at the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown (Carl Croker photo)
Part 8
The doctrine of PNC party paramountcy and a repressive state
Our society as we know it today is characterized by the highest level of freedom that a free state can create. But this freedom must be seen in the context of the PPP Government’s respect for and embracing individual freedom and the creation and support for state institutions that seek a separa-
ed government is the functioning of the legislative arm of the government (the National Assembly). Further, the executive arm and the legislative arm form the basis for a functioning democracy but equally important is the independence of the judiciary, the military and the free press. The economic space created by pri-
tion of the four pillars of society, namely the executive branch of government, the legislative arm (National Assembly), the judiciary and that which is referred as the fourth estate-- the free press. To this I would like to add two other fundamental construct for a free society and these are the military machinery as a professional independent body with no subservience to a ruling party. Also, the expression of economic freedom in an environment whereby the growth of the private sector is cherished and encouraged.
It is to the credit of the Peoples Progressive Party that our country under the PPP/C Government has respected and embraced the concept of separation of state from these six aforementioned institutions. Thus, freedom in this democratic era can be defined as democratic freedom where the right to choose a government is clearly established through the mechanism of free and fair elections.
Flowing from the apparatus of a democratically elect-
vate sector development then adds to the mix to allow for the fullest expression of personal life and liberty. Today we enjoy all these freedom under the PPPC government.
This part of the series ‘Snippets from the Past’ seek to examine the concept of PNC (now parading as APNU) party paramountcy and its articulation and implication for a society as it existed during the PNC regime.
1964 Elections
1964 election was held under the shadow of the racial violence during the period 1962 – 1964 which cumulated in the Wismar Pogrom against the Indian population in May 24 –26 1964. Writing in the Guyana Series of the Latin American Bureau – Guyana: Fraudulent Revolution “the effects of the Wismar violence in May of that year on the Indo Guyanese community was profound… the colonial authorities used the Wismar pogrom to assume dictatorial powers and intensified a glaring-
ly discriminatory campaign against the PPP. Over 30 leading PPP activists were detained in contrast to only two PNC members detained despite detailed knowledge of the latter’s terrorist activities”
Notwithstanding these constraints and this environment of fear, hostility and violence, in the 1964 elections, the PPP won the largest number of votes for the third consecutive election. Actually, there was an increase in the share of the popular vote over 1961 from 42.6% to 45.8%.
The PNC vote was reduced by 4% and the UF by 3.9%. However, under the new the proportional representation system (PR) this was translated into the PPP - 24 seats, the PNC - 22 seats and the UF – 7 seats. The colonial government chose to ignore, established constitutional protocol and invited the PNC to form a
ed by Peter D’Aguiar never fully trusted the opportunistic and racist PNC and the PNC never embraced the UF in an act of honest political collaboration but merely saw this mechanism as a tool to oust the PPP from office. During the coalition government’s four years in office “the substantial and unproductive foreign loans became a heavy drain on foreign reserves…the country balance of payments had been adversely affected… there were decline in agricultural production”.
There was a general failure of this coalition in terms of ideological cohesiveness and economic strategy to bring sustained growth to the economy. This fractious relation further deteriorated when the leader of the UF and the Director of Audit reported on unaccounted use of millions of dollars from the National Treasury.
Peter D’Aguiar and the
government. The PNC in coalition with the UF formed a government of PNC-UF. Through this arrangement the PPP was ousted from office. This electoral convenience had only one common element. Both the PNC and the UF wanted to see the PPP out of political office. There were political and ideological differences, social and cultural schisms between these two coalition parties. United Force, head-
United Force resigned from the Government in disgust. This was the end of the PNC-UF coalition.
This is an illustrative example of the AFC-APNU marriage of convenience fueled by hate and greed and pure opportunistic lust for power. Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan have become prisoners of their own deceit and deceptive amnesia of history.
Camp Street Prison fast becoming a homeless shelter
By AnAsticiA clementson
Court Five of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts heard the case of Chris (only name given) on Wednesday last, where the homeless man was brought in to answer a charge of theft. However, Chris’ predicament was the last thing on his mind as he laid his unclean head on the bench and asked to be sent to jail.
Chris, a 50-year-old homeless person who lives on the streets, appeared in court wearing the borrowed jersey of another prisoner, still crying for his dead parents and not the least bit bothered by the fact that his pants was falling off his body, revealing his genetalia.
He pleaded guilty to taking a bicycle valued $22,000 on April 7 when he appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Wednesday. The homeless man told the court that the bicycle was not locked and was left unattended on Thomas Street. He said what attracted him to it was that “it looked nice.”
The accused told the court that he started to ride the bike but someone took it away from him not soon after. He said he was planning on selling it as he was hungry and still was. The accused cried out with hunger and was barely able to lift himself to stand before the Magistrate.
As a Guyana Times reporter watched this display, it was observed that he wore no shoes, the same mus-
tard coloured jersey that was worn by another prisoner earlier in the court and a dinged white pants that was unable to fit him properly.
It was the man’s anguished cries for “food and some place to lie down” that quieted the expected giggles of the courtroom when his pants continue to fall. He told the court that he gets his food from bins and the roadways. He mentions a brother who works as a security guard and a sister but stated that he does not want to be a burden to him.
Chris was fined $20,000 by Magistrate Azore for the offence of larceny. However, he acknowledged that he would not be able to pay the fine, noting that he preferred the sentence of two months in jail. The Magistrate told the hungry man that “at least you will get food in jail.”
It has been reported in several media outlets of Guyana’s growing homeless population, added with the growing numbers on the streets due to addiction to drugs or mental illness. Guyana Times had published an article about men and women who frequent the Bourda Market area and use it as a shelter and place to ply their commercial business of begging. This number has been growing greatly over the years. One bystander had commented on the few numbers of homeless who could be seen on the pavement outside the Bourda’s Burial Ground only six years ago, compared to the increased numbers of today.
Over 30 leading PPP activists were detained in contrast to only two PNC members detained despite detailed knowledge of the latter’s terrorist activities
There was a general failure of the coalition in terms of ideological cohesiveness and economic strategy to bring sustained growth to the economy
The Camp Street Prison
Page Foundation
Anu Dev
Isaw a video recently that gave me a lot to think about and mull over. It was titled “Empathy: The Human Connection”. Now right up front lets distinguish between "sympathy" and "empathy" - which both concern peoples' feelings. You feel empathy when you've "been there" and sympathy when you haven't. You feel compassion but not necessarily feel their feelings.
The video took viewers through a hospital, showing patients, doctors and family members. It used text to nonverbally show what might be going on with that particular person during that particular time, what might be on their mind. It really brought home to me that as a future doctor, what my future patients might be like. They’ll be persons from across the broad spectrum of society. They’ll come from widely dif-
and being human
"If you could stand in someone else's shoes... hear what they hear. See what they see. Feel what they feel. Would you treat them differently?" – Empathy: The Human Connection to Patient Care
ferent backgrounds, cultures and have different social pressures. They might, as the video mentions, be terminally ill, visiting their Dad for the last time, or been recently divorced. One will have to - for the duration - enter into the world of the "other" to really feel as they do. We’ve had classes about "empathy" and what it means to be empathetic and the "neuroscience" behind empathy. They also really caused my mind to churn. They made me wonder about whether in my everyday life, how much time I actually take to put myself in other people’s shoes. They made me think back to the times that the people around me were empathetic to the things I was going through. And made me wonder about why even though we’re all wired with empathy, why so many of us really don’t take enough time to be empathetic. It’s supposed to be in our nature, so why then do we find it so easy to just tune out the people around us and just not listen to the things they
have to say?
The video really hit home the idea that we really don’t know what’s going on with the people around us. Most of the people in the video, I wouldn’t have had any idea about what they were going through if not for the text above their heads. As a doctor, I probably won’t know many of my patients for an extended period of time. But if I take the time, I can get at least some inkling about the patient’s life other than the fact that they have cancer. And by putting myself into their shoes, I can be more sensitive about how I inform them of their diagnosis and treatment options. I usually get really anxious when visiting the doctor of dentist. Fear is one of the strongest emotions I feel. I’m usually more comfortable with the doctors that communicate with me. I appreciate it when the doctor reassures me that, “The injection will feel like just a tiny prick”even if that’s a little white lie. I guess those are the doctors that actually took the time to
empathize with me. Like Dr. Clive Jagan who took time to chat with me and distract me while he extracted FOUR of my baby teeth - without me even noticing! And in my experiences the empathetic doctors were the ones I genuinely liked and trusted.
All individuals are different - a cliche...but not often put into practice. We react differently to triumphs, to tragedies. How as a doctor I might feel about a particular disease mightn’t be exactly how the patient who was just diagnosed with the disease might feel, but I’ll have to do my best to relate to the patient for that at least that little while. Most persons have so much more going on under the surface than they’ll initially let on. Some people might never let on what’s going on their personal life unless someone is concerned enough to take an interest in finding out the root of the problem.
We could all do with being a bit more empathetic in our everyday life. A little care and concern goes a long way
Health Ministry hosts fair to mark World Health Day
In commemorating World Health Day which was observed on April 7, the Health Ministry on Saturday hosted a health fair on the lawns of Guyana Stores Ltd.
The fair was aimed at educating the public on healthy eating habits and the importance of monitoring their health.
On board were staff from the Ministry, representatives from the Dental Unit, HIV/AIDS Programme, The National Blood Transfusion Service, Medex and Food Policy advisers.
Visitors at the fair were treated to dental checkups, blood sugar tests, tuberculosis, chronic diseases test and health talks on the various health issues, such as yellow fever and cancer. Additionally, sessions were done on sexually transmitted infections, among others.
Speaking to the media, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud said though the theme for World Health Day 2015 focused on Food Safety, he is urging
the public to be cautious about their health and ensure that they do regular check-ups.
Dr Persaud said that there are a lot of chronic diseases that are present in society, noting that early detection is critical. In an effort to prevent certain disease, the CMO said it is important to eat healthy. According to him, eating safe foods means they are free from bacteria, viruses and other things that can cause a person to fall ill but also healthy in terms of nutrition. Additionally, he said reducing one’s sugar, salt and fat intakes is critical, noting on the contrary that one’s fibre should be increased. Hence, consumption of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis is a healthy move. He said too that persons ought to drink a lot of water as well.
The CMO also spoke of the importance of the commercial community working in close collaboration with the Ministry. “Health is not only the Ministry of Health’s business but also the business of everyone, whether you are in a commercial sector or any other, we would like to partner with you so as to reach out to the public,” he added.
Meanwhile, Abdul Rahim, a representative from the dental unit urged the public to maintain good oral health. On this note, he stated that in order to maintain oral hygiene, one must eat healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables.
He also noted that persons should visit their dentist twice a year. He said regular visits will result in persons receiving cleaning tips on the proper way to care for the mouth.
He said that “persons should brush their teeth daily and this includes in the mornings, after breakfast, in the nights and before you go to bed.”
Representatives from the other booths distributed educational flyers and shared their knowledge on a number of health issues.
East Bank Berbice new road near completion
The first phase of the Bermine/Lightown, East Bank Berbice road project will soon be completed.
This disclosure was made on Thursday during a visit to the site by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds who expressed satisfaction at the work done thus far.
Under the $391 million project, nine miles of road is being resurfaced with bitumen. Bitumen is being used on the road to ensure durability in light of the increasing vehicular traffic.
According to Hinds, while that section of the road is being rehabilitated, the four mile stretch from Islington to Bermine remains in a worrying state.
“I am very pleased to say how much this piece of road is appreciated from Bermine
Bridge to Highbury. I know from way back in the 70’s that this East Bank Berbice (road) had always been a challenging area for the engineers. For the roads to be done in the Glasgow from Islington, the soil is pretty challenging. But we have got this piece in and I understand that the Regional Democratic Council has in their plan to do from Highbury to Mara.”
One resident, Pooran Singh, of Brothers Village, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), told Guyana Times that after 45 years, he is now able to “live in peace.” He was referring to the newly resurfaced road in the vicinity of Sisters Village. Another resident, Roshan Khan of Sisters Village echoed similar sentiments.
The contract had been awarded to H Nauth and Sons Civil Engineering Contractors.
Meanwhile, another contract to provide remedial work to the troubled Islington/Glasgow/ Edinburgh area was given to Associated Construction Service at the cost of $386 million. That project has been completed but residents, while not pleased that the Bermine/Lightown road was not given priority, they are happy with the quality of the work done.
In response, Hinds said soon that section of the road will be permanently fixed. “At the Central Government level we are working with the World Bank to rehabilitate the road from Islington to the Bermine Bridge. Those negotiations are far advanced with the feasibility and the economic assessments already completed and are positive.”
He added, “We are working hard to ensure that we are returned (to Government) so that we can keep this progress going and then have a good road right through from Islington to Mara.”
Asked what would be the cost of the four mile stretch from Islington to Bermine Bridge, Hinds said it is still to be determined.
“The price for the Islington section has not been finalised as yet. But I expect it will be high because in that section I know that the soil is pretty demanding and so the design will result in a very expensive road,” Hinds noted.
Linden man in stable condition following shooting incident
ALinden man is now a patient at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) after sustaining gunshot wounds on Friday evening.
The man has been identified as 26-year-old Dellon Bronswin of Wisroc Housing Scheme, Mackenzie, Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) and according to information received; a male suspect in the shooting is yet
to be apprehended by Police.
The incident took place at approximately 10:00h at the Wisroc/Amelia’s Ward bus park. Reliable sources at the hospital have confirmed that Bronswin, who sustained injuries to one of his legs is in a stable condition.
While the reason for the shooting is unclear, an eyewitness related that the incident took place in full view of persons who were at the
location at the time.
The suspect was overheard telling the victim to “run away” from him and shortly after multiple gunshots rang out. The suspect then escaped through neighbouring Pine Street shortly afterwards. The injured man lifted and taken to the hospital following the incident.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Man who burnt Pomona woman released
Sixty-four-year-old Alan Allicock, who was remanded for allegedly setting a woman on fire, was released from prison.
The incident reportedly occurred in Pomona Housing Scheme in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on March 8.
The accused made his second appearance at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on Friday but the court was told that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has recommended that an inquest be held.
The inquest will, however, determine who or what caused the woman’s death. The findings will determine if a case can be made out against Allicock. Representing the accused was Attorney Latchmin Dindyal.
Allicock, called “Balie”, was charged for attempted murder on March 17, before Magistrate Sunil Scarce. He was not required to plea to the indictable charge.
The charge states that on March 8 at Pomona Housing Scheme on the Essequibo Coast, the accused with intent to commit murder inflicted grievous bodily harm to the Virtual Complainant (VC) Tarawattie Ronie, also of “Pomona”. The court was told that on the day in question, the VC was at her home in an outdoor kitchen when the accused came into her yard and doused her with a flammable substance then took a match and lit her afire before es -
caping. The VC was then rescued by neighbours and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital and later transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital. Ronie had suffered from extensive third-degree burns about her body from the blaze. She battled for her life for 15 days before succumbing on March 23.
Stevedore woman pleads guilty to assault
Onecia Marks, 36, of Lot 3514 Stevedore Housing Scheme, Georgetown pleaded guilty to the charge of assault but with explanation when she appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday.
It is alleged that while at home, Marks assaulted her sister, Geneva Marks. The incident reportedly oc-
curred on Friday April 3, 2015.
It was further explained that on the day of the incident, the sisters were filling water at a standpipe when an argument ensued, and the defendant unlawfully assaulted her sister.
When asked to speak in her own defence, Marks claimed that on the day in question, an argument indeed ensued; however, she did not assault her sister. The woman claimed that during the argument, she proceeded to retreat into her house when Geneva Marks hit her to the head with a spatula which led to her being wounded.
After considering the facts, the Magistrate placed the woman on her own recognisance. The matter will return to court on April 16.
Alan Allicock
Tarawattie Ronie
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds gets a hand shake from a resident for the newly upgraded East Bank Berbice road
Bartica declares support for PPP/C
– residents promised improved
power, better airstrip, roads – says it wants development to continue, other woes addressed
By Devina Samaroo
Hundreds of Guyanese on Saturday turned out to the massive rally held by the ruling People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) which is considered to be the gateway to the interior where they declared support their support for the re-elected of a PPP/C Government with a majority.
But residents also called
Benn.
He assured as well that they will complete the road from Bartica four-mile leading to the airstrip.
The Minister also underscored the heavy focus government has given to the gold mining sector, highlighting the progress with the Kiruni Gold Project on Potaro River and the Aurora Gold Mines.
President Donald Ramotar in his address, also emphasised on the importance of mining to the community of
tion over the underdeveloped roads.
He explained that, for a community that is on the journey to township, the roads are in a terrible state.
Indeed so, the main access road on First Avenue Bartica exhibited many potholes.
Benjamin cried that the drivers usually have to spend a lot of money unnecessarily to repair their vehicles when they are damaged as a result from travelling on the roads.
Some taxi operators even
activities, pointing out that Bartica needs a library to facilitate researching aspect of the education aqcuisition process.
He pleaded with the Government to look into this situation as he is of the belief that a sound education is the key to success in all other departments.
Meanwhile, one aspect that annoys almost everyone travelling is the unmoderised systems at the Bartica stelling.
on the party to address several of their concerns as they pressed for continued development and progress as opposed to change.
During their rally, the PPP/C presented several plans they have for future development in the region.
Prime Minister with Responsibility for Energy Samuel Hinds noted that the government intends to establish a new and improved power station with larger capacity to fix the electricity woes and to better service the community of Bartica.
Infrastructural plans
Additionally, Transport and Harbour Minister Robeson Benn also reveal plans to invest heavily into the development of the Bartica Airstrip in order to ensure it is in an up-to-standard condition.
In addition to that improvement, he said the Government intends to create a new waiting area in the vicinity of the airport in providing for the comfort of passengers. While not addressing the concerns of the roadways right in the heart of Bartica, the Minister did promise to improve on the main access roads to various hinterland areas.
For example, he promised that the PPP/C will continue to work on the maintennace of the Potaro, Itabali and Piruni roads.
But the biggest annoucnement under the party's infrastructural plans for the region includes the development of a Parika-Bartica Roadway.
In fact, he disclosed that the Delconte Road is already under feasibility studies to ensure everything is intact for the establishment of this roadway.
Government also intends to open up a trail from Sandhills on the Demerara River to the other side of the bank, according to Minister
Bartica, as he promised to ensure fair and equal opportunities for both large scale and small scale miners.
He assured that Government, once reelected, will review the mining laws to ensure small scale miners can acquire land to do their own mining without having to get permission from the bigger companies.
As it relates to the housing sector, Government officials spoke highly about the trans-
resort to driving on the paves in order to avoid falling into the huge holes in the road.
The taxi driver acknowledged that the heavy duty trucks that pass through the area contribute to the roads' destruction and called on the authorities to have systems in place to repair the roads on a regular basis.
He disclosed that the local business community would often come together to fill the holes with cement, but that
In fact, several persons voiced the need for an immediate upgrade to the stelling.
As it is now, there are no safety hazards but operators opined that the Government should not wait until the structure reaches that state before they make a move to fix it.
Praises
Other residents praised the ruling Administration for the work it has done within
formation in this regard with the development of three new housing schemes since the PPP/C took office.
At the rally, the PPP/C vowed to improve the already existing housing schemes as they disclosed plans to develop more in the near future.
Progress, development
But even as the PPP/C campaign trail hit Bartica, the rapidly developing community, its residents underscored the need for better facilities and services.
Arguably, there is no doubt that the community drastically transformed under the current Administration's regime and is well on its way to earning a township status.
But while the economic side of things reflects positively, residents complained of basic needs being neglected.
Speaking with the Guyana Times shortly before the massive PPP/C rally commenced, Dwayne Benjamin, a local taxi driver, vented his frustra-
solution is merely temporary as the roads are once again destroyed if a truck passes or if it rains.
Residents also complained about the uncontrollable garbage situation. They pointed out, with disgust, the build up of garbage at the kokers and canals.
One resident, Sanjay Rampersaud, noted that this disaster often leads to severe flooding in the area, especially when it rains heavily or if there are high tides.
While he acknowledged that the residents have to develop zero tolerance for littering, Rampersaud recommended the authorities put the measures in place to enforce the anti-littering laws.
Moving along, while Bartica is doing well in its education sector, others seem to think there is room for much more improvement.
Akeem who is a father of one, noted that there are not enough facilities to accommodate afterschool studying
the region and the fact that are now more access to opportunities there for students and youths than at any other time in the history of the country.
One resident remarked that he was proud of the work done by the Government in the area of education and health while noting that now residents can access better and improved health care at little or no expense.
Other spoke of the improved security situation in the region and the work done by the PPP/C under both Presidents Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar to boost the security profile of the region following the brutal Bartica Massacre.
“I know people will complain about some things. I recognise we still need more development but I would be lying to say that the Government, the PPP/C as party has not done a lot for us. I know they have lots more to do”, another supporter told this newspaper during the rally.
Eyew tness
What they said then...
... about Granger
Politics is a strange vocation. It seems to cause amnesia among some. Take for instance what three fervent supporters of David Granger today said about him back in 2010, at the announcement that he was going to be the PNC’s Leader.
Jinnah Rahman, Sept 30
“David Granger is the worst choice for the PNC Presidential candidate. Granger, who has always been a closet Burnhamite, will cause further deterioration within the current Robert Corbin faction of the PNC (you hear that Vanessa and Africo??) and further disrupt any reconciliation process among the masses of Guyanese, who suffered massively under the PNC dictatorial rule.
“Granger helped in the creation of the environment which violated the fundamental principle that our country was built (the right to elect a Government of our choice, freedom of speech and freedom of movement). People seem to forget the past too easily.
“Granger’s hands are seriously stained with the blood of these two heroic Guyanese patriots (the ballot box martyrs)….”
As a reminder, he and other riggers should better inform themselves by reading Moses Nagamootoo and Janet Jagan’s respective publications on how the PNC was able to stay in power for 28 years.
I have read about the “professionalism” of David Granger from different quarters and wonder whether professionalism has no moral ethics? Mr Granger cannot lead intelligent Guyanese, he can lead the blind ones.
Then Sase Singh Jan 10, 09:06h
“Mr Granger said the GDF was just following orders. So the Burnham regime ordered them to help rig the 1973 election. This is intellectual dishonesty and that is why none of these chaps can look the PPP/C in the face.”
Sase Singh, Jan 11, 11:27h
“Absolute correct. Slice it or dice it, rigging is still rigging and he (Granger) was a senior member of the forces that helped to carry out the act - rigging of elections. Only thing that will save them is a full fledged apology to the nation. They tek them eyes and pass the silent majority who despise rigging of elections.
“They can twist it how they want, we have counting at the place of poll today. It is a better system today. No donkey and horses in Manchester not voting anymore.”
Rajendra Bisessar, Jan 11, 04:20h
“Do you think the army was performing a statistical role because the boxes were to be seized? Really. Hilarious. So how come after the logistical exercise the boxes arrived without bottom, top without seals and so long after.”
... about the Burnham touch
David Granger so proud of his legacy from Burnham, launched his PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition on Burnham’s birthday! It’s instructive to remember Dr Walter Rodney’s description of that legacy. First there is the Burnham touch:
“The other evening, I had to draw the analogy to say what if there ever was such a thing called the Midas touch, which was the touch that made everything turn into gold, then we will have a new creation in this society – the Burnham touch where everything he touches turns to shit (prolonged laughter).”
Then there is the armed forces of which Granger was a part at that time: “According to the Guyana Constitution, each Soldier or Policeman... is expected to be loyal to the commands of an elected Government representing the people.
Little by little since independence, loyalty to the country became loyalty to the PNC and then personal loyalty to Burnham. The uniformed forces helped the PNC to beat down the majority Opposition in 1973, and then by July 1978 they were helping Burnham to steal the rights of 90 per cent of the population - including the rights of many former supporters of the PNC.
One wonders whether the Soldiers and Police realised when they stopped being loyal to the country and started being the watch-dogs of a dictator?”
Can Granger answer Rodney’s question?? The people want to know!
Hundreds turned out to a rally organised by the People's Progressive Party/Civic in Bartica, Region Seven on Saturday to listen to President Donald Ramotar's address
A section of the gathering at the rally
PPP/C urges youths to vote wisely
Members of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Friday called on the nation’s youths to vote wisely come May 11.
In encouraging the young population to vote wisely, Dr Peter Ramsaroop outlined that the PPP/C Administration continues to embark on policies that will secure the future of its people.
“The PPP/C has been giving tremendous opportunities to the young population from ever since, and opportunities are what give you the chance to develop,” Dr Ramsaroop said as he addressed the press at Freedom House.
According to Dr Ramsaroop, the party continues to make the necessary changes that foster sustainable development. He said too that the Government’s decision to have a separate unit to deal with the perception of corruption is a step in the right direction.
Former Member of Parliament and A Partnership for National Unity member, Africo
Selman, who was also present, said Guyana is not where it should be due to the Opposition. However, she said there is a genuine commitment on the part of the PPP/C to ensure that Guyana receives universal secondary education in the not so distant future, pointing out that the country has already attained universal primary education.
According to Selman, the youths of Guyana must not allow themselves to be misled by the other political parties, noting that
Magistrate
Appearing before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday for the charge of assault causing actual bodily harm was 19-year-old Claude Ashby.
The Lot 91 Joseph Collymore Street, Georgetown, resident in making his appearance pleaded not guilty to the charge. It is alleged that on Wednesday March 29,
they must compare the past to the present. She added that youths should not be caught up with the slogan “Time to Change,” alleging that the APNU+AFC coali-
tion Presidential Candidate David Granger does not have the leadership skills to move the country forward. She said Granger demonstrated his poor leadership skills in the 10th Parliament, when he instructed his Members of Parliament to join hands with the Alliance for Change (AFC) to cut critical funding from the nation budget.
However, she said for
Ashby assaulted the Virtual Complainant (VC) Tishana Caesar. The Police Prosecutor told the court that on the day in question, Ashby dealt Caesar, who is the mother of his child, several punches to the face and choked her resulting in several abrasions to her left cheek. The prosecution then objected to bail due to the seriousness of the crime. Magistrate Latchman then
more than 22 years, the PPP/C has been transforming the economic landscape of Guyana.
Meanwhile, Roshini Boodhoo, another representative of the PPP/C, spoke of the importance of youth empowerment. “We often hear ‘that children are the future’ or ‘the youths are the future leaders.’ The People’s Progressive Party has paved pathways and continues to move us along the path of development,” she said.
Boodhoo added, “we have seen across the years that we have been moving forward and as youths we all have dreams and aspirations to move forward and with the PPP/C, it is for a fact that we have been moving forward from the inception.” As a cultural advocate, she believes it is very important to have youths involved in extra-curricular activities.
Former beauty queen Olive Gopaul on the other hand indicated that with the PPP/C opportunities are given to everyone regardless of their age, ethnicity or geographic location. She noted
that parents and teachers ought to work together as a society, noting too that individuals need to capitalise on available opportunities.
Sarah Brown and former AFC General Secretary Sixtus Edwards were among other PPP/C representatives who bashed the Opposition for stymieing the growth and development of the country. They are also of the strong opinion that only under a PPP/C Government could Guyana move forward, having suffered at the hands of the Opposition.
remanded the young man to prison until April 17 but the case was subsequently dismissed after the VC said she wished not to proceed with the matter.
Caesar explained that while she is away working in Berbice, it is the defendant who would tend to their child. However, upon dismissing the case, the Magistrate advised the woman to request a protection order.
Habitual fraudster remanded
Awoman was remanded to prison on Friday after being slapped with 15 charges of fraudulent embezzlement.
The woman, 37-yearold Jasodra Bahadur of Lot 18 Block CC, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charges which were read to her by Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The first charge alleged that on September 26, 2014, at Georgetown, she attempted to defraud Amarnauth Bahadur, an accountant of New Horizons Incorporated, of $46,196.
It was also alleged that between September 12 and October 28, 2014 with the intent to defraud, she forged five New Horizon Incorporated bills for a total sum of $215,086 issued to Roti Plus.
It was further alleged that on six different occasions between August 28 and October 6, 2014, acting as a clerk of the aforementioned business, she fraudulently embezzled a total sum of $215,086, property of the establishment.
It was further alleged that between September 12 and October 6, 2014, she wrote four fraudulent bills to Amarnauth
Bahadur with the intent to defraud him of a total sum of $207,405.
The defence pleaded with the court for reasonable bail on the grounds that the woman is the single parent to a minor, and has no previous convictions.
The Police Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that the woman has in excess of 40 other such charges pending against her in other courts.
The Prosecutor added that she is a repeat offender, and has committed such acts on several other business entities. Bail was refused and the woman was remanded until April 17.
Man fingered in gun fight placed on bail
Aman was granted $50,000 bail at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday for the charge of unlawful assault.
Quincy Braithwaite of Lot 115 Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which was read to him by Magistrate Judy Latchman.
According to information presented in the court, Braithwaite unlawfully assaulted the Virtual Complainant (VC) Orlando Eifell on April 7.
The Police Prosecutor, in making the State’s case against the defendant, pointed out that Braithwaite is the VC’s brother-in-law. He noted that on the day in question, the duo had an altercation, in the vicinity of Middle Road, La Penitence, during which the defendant hit Eifell to his mouth with a firearm.
However, Braithwaite’s Attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat refuted the allegation, stating that there was never any physical scuffle. He said when the VC made his first report at the Police Station,
he did not mention being assaulted.
Fung-A-Fat further claimed that his client is not a licensed firearm holder nor is he a criminal, and as such, he does not possess a firearm. He backed this claim by disclosing that during the search that was carried out on the defendant and his premises, the alleged firearm was not recovered. It was on these grounds that bail was requested. Bail was granted in the sum of $50,000 and the matter will return to the court on April 16.
Olive Gopaul
Africo Selman
Roshini Boodhoo
Dr Peter Ramsaroop
Sixtus Edwards
Sea Adventure Expedition to explore Guyana’s beauty
The Sea Adventure, an expedition ship, is in Guyana ready to be part of the cruise lines that have stopped in Port Georgetown to seen Guyana’s vast display of forest and nature.
Early on Friday, the expedition ship docked in the Demerara River.
Captain of the ship, Peter Gluschke, explained to Guyana Times that the expedition had been destined for Essequibo. However, the tide was low and prevented the ship from anchoring itself in the Essequibo River.
Nevertheless, Captain Gluschke stated that it is still an experience for his exploring passengers. He informed that the Sea Adventure is not one’s run of the mill cruise as it goes to places and countries that are not on the normal routes for cruises. He said that his cruise attracts a clientele that is interested in actually seeing what other countries have to offer in the way of flora and fauna.
Thus, it is places “like this” that the Captain has been cruising all around the world, such as the Far
East, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, etcetera. He said that there are enough cruise ships that visit the big cities and developed countries. The Sea Adventure goes to countries that are known for their “quiet life with nature not so much disturbed.”
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh, informed Captain Gluschke that he came to the right place. He commented on the full display of flora and fauna that Guyana boasts, speaking at length about Guyana’s “877 specifies of birds… and a Bird Sanctuary in the Botanical Gardens.” Guyana is one of the few countries to have such a sanctuary, he proudly informed Captain Gluschke.
Director Haralsingh enlightened the Captain about these facts, adding that passengers would be treated to a tour of the nations’ capital by Evergreen Adventures Tours, as they are educated on the history and beauty behind the makes up the capital city.
Also, the wonders of Essequibo with its forests and Islands, and the world
known single fall Kaieteur Falls were among the places listed as must sees by the Director.
To honour the occasion, as it is the first time that the Sea Adventure came to Guyana, although its predecessor Clipper’s Adventurers has been here several times, the GTA Director gave Captain Gluschke several books on Guyana’s flora and fauna with an artefact as a souvenir. It is expected that these publications would better edify the passengers on Guyana’s contributions to nature.
Hotelier Manager, March Warmenhoven gave a tour of the impressive vessel to this
would need such as a television, a bar and dining sets of a more personal atmosphere is needed.
In the corner of almost every room there is something educational set up about a country or nature of foods that was experienced on their visits to other countries. But what was more a priority for the Hotelier was passenger’s safety.
Warmenhoven stated that the ship has several options available to passengers in the chance escape is necessary. He told of the lifeboats and the precautions that have been taken with the design of the ship.
The Sea Adventure
publication along with several other media entities.
He explained that the vessel has been in use since the time of the Soviet Union and has proven quite useful on the tough waters that the line chooses to go.
The Hotelier stated that the ship tries to foster an atmosphere of home as there is the Clipper lounge that is set up with all that one
SunDAY, April 12, 2015 |
Kissoon should have...
It is not a matter of them not having space because they added more and still didn’t include her name.”
Meanwhile, according to Selman, from her point of view, Kissoon more than deserves to have her name on the list since she has worked tirelessly for the party. “Vanessa is a hard worker, she is committed to young people. She genuinely cares about youths and children, being a teacher and also a mother. Vanessa has chosen to stand up for herself, she doesn’t allow anyone to railroad her but she is a good person,” Selman told this publication.
Selman, a former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Executive left the party after stating that she refuses to be a rubberstamp parliamentarian and a young leader who was made to suffer constant verbal and emotional abuse, at the hands of the elders within her party whenever she expressed independent or dissenting views on political matters within what was supposed to be the comfort of her own party. She could have fully claimed that Granger’s attitude could be summed up by the observant ionic misogynic men, “they want to keep women barefoot and pregnant.”
is expected to leave Port Georgetown tonight for Essequibo, which was its initial destination. In Essequibo, the Majestic Kaieteur Falls will definitely be a sight to behold.
There were early rumours before the submission of the list about Kissoon being omitted and PNCR supporter Minette Bacchus wrote in a letter which appeared in the Stabroek News that the decision was unfair. Bacchus said Kissoon was a special kind of politician
who did not come along often, and because of her rarity and commitment to politics as a force to bring about positive change and improve the lives of those she represented, she deserved to be on the 2015 List of Representatives and return as a Member of Parliament. When the APNU+AFC held their first campaign rally in Linden on March 15, it had appeared that Kissoon and Sharma Solomon might have resolved their differences with the leadership of the PNCR as they took to the stage with Granger and other top executives of the party at the coalition’s campaign meeting. Kissoon was given a front seat on stage and was embraced and engaged by most of the party’s members after the rally had ended. She was also chosen to give the vote of thanks.
In an invited comment to Guyana Times at that time on whether the wounds between the party and herself had been truly healed, Kissoon responded “my presence here tonight speaks for itself, it really speaks for itself”.
The issue of Kissoon’s and Solomon’s falling out with the hierarchy of the PNCR spilled over at the party’s Congress last year, which was mired in chaos and claims of rigging. Granger was returned to the helm of the party, but not before Solomon and Aubrey Norton had pulled out of the contest.
Efforts to contact Vanessa Kissoon for a comment on the matter proved futile. from page 3
The Sea Adventure berthed at the GNIC Wharf Saturday afternoon
The Captain’s domain where he steers the Sea Adventure to its many explorations
SunDAY, April 12, 2015
Gary Best augments militarised APNU/AFC
– raises further fears of disastrous military Govt
BY MICHAEL YOUNGE
Former Chief-of-
Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Rear Admiral Gary Best has thrown his support behind the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)led A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition arguing that the has confidence it will deliver the change Guyana needs. Observers said this resonated with Burnham’s vision of “changing” Guyana’s society through militarisation. Burnham believed that Guyanese were “too indisciplined”.
Best has now joined the long list of former security force and military officials who were brought into the the PNCR after Brigadier David Granger became leader of that party or later endorsed the APNU/AFC coalition as fears and concerns mount about the militarisation of the coalition and the creation of a military party.
Best, who served as the Army’s Chief-of-Staff under the ruling People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), in a statement to the media said the PNCled coalition was the “best political party capable of managing the affairs of our country”. He had succeed as Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Edward Collins who himself was part of the PNC/APNU protests in 2011.
So far, ex-Police
Commissioner Winston Felix had joined the coalition ahead of the 2011 elections along with former Army Lieutenant Joseph Harmon. Former Assistant Commissioner Paul Slowe has also joined and declared support for the coalition.
There has been several dozen noticeable ex-police, paramilitary and military officials serving the coalition from the level of its security detail to those occupying seats in Parliament.
One of them is Captain Mike Archer who serves as the Public Relatins Officer for APNU. During the last campaign a platoon of ex-military men from New York joined a similar number from Guyana and were deployed across the county to mobilise the old PNC base.
Best justified his decision to join his old comrades in arms by claiming, “Each of these two political parties (referring to the AFC and
APNU) worked vigorously, though independently, to put an end to division in our country. Their bold decision to work together is not only manifest of a deep commitment to unity politics, and unity leadership, but also the beginning of a movement for unity in everything
we do as a nation.”
When the AFC had been formed by one member each from the PPP/C (Ramjattan) PNCR (Trotman) and WPA (Holder) they had vowed that they would never join with either of the two larger parties but would remain independent. They had also vowed to would rotate their leadership but this was unilaterally jettisoned by present leader Ramjattan.
Best however argued that he has confident in both Granger and his running mate Moses Nagamootoo to
deliver on their promises of running a Government of integrity, unity, fairness and transparency.
Earlier this month, Dr Luncheon had expressed cabinet’s concern about the influx and injection of military officers into the country to support the Opposition party.
Luncheon had argued that conspicuous presence of retired army officers in the APNU also symbolises the worst mistake the coalition’s leader David Granger has made in his life.
He called the Opposition a “military-political alliance” while giving the media an account of his his experience in 1992 and his role in interacting with the army
which served under the stewardship of the People’s National Congress (PNC).
“One may want to argue that point but it would
not be sustained…One however, could not argue that the military was not an active participant into the years of repression under the PNC Government. I don’t think we can argue about that. But my concern dates back to 1992 when the then President, Dr Cheddi Jagan said to me, ‘Luncheon you and the then Minister of Home Affairs, Feroze Mohamed, are tasked with rehabilitating the image of the military in the minds of Guyanese because this is a national institution”.
He said “This perception of it being a hand maiden of the PNC and perpetrating all of the indecencies and the excesses on the Guyanese people has to be changed. We cannot allow that to cloud our image and our judgment on this military. Luncheon and Mohamed y’all got a job,
clean up. Mek sure that this image is corrected,”
The Cabinet Secretary said that he believes that the current Administration did a good job because a professional military now exists.
However, Dr Luncheon said that he does not believe that people’s memory is so short that when one observes those same two bodies (the military and the PNC) getting back together again, it doesn’t reasonably raise suspicions and causes us to wonder what if.
He added, “Suppose, heavens forbid, APNU were to succeed in the 2015 elections. Obviously they would have a serious debt to pay to the military.”
Many other ex-colonies in Africa – from both the British and French Empires – had descended into military rule after short periods of democratic governments subsequent to their independence which was coterminous with Guyana’s in the 1960’s. Almost all of them sunk into poverty, despair, civil war, famine and other symptoms of dystopia.
In the present the poster child for militarised Government as complete disasters is epitomised by the Congo or Zaire. Possessed of tremendous amount and variety of natural resources like Guyana they remain one of the poorest country in the world.
Suriname apologises to Guyana
The Government of Suriname has officially apologised to the Government of Guyana following the assault of this country’s Ambassador to Suriname, Keith George on the soil of Guyana’s Embassy in that country.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry here on Saturday, in a statement to the media, said that Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett has received a formal apology from her Surinamese counterpart, His Excellency Winston G Lackin, regarding the incident that took place at the Guyana Embassy in Suriname’s Capital, Paramaribo, on April 1.
“In the same communication, the Surinamese Foreign Minister assured that the Government of the Republic of Suriname has initiated a thorough investigation into the incident that involved two Surinamese Policemen seeking to execute an ar-
rest of a staff member on the premises of the Guyana Embassy and which led to the assault on the person of the Ambassador of Guyana to the Republic of Suriname”, the statement issued here said.
Guyana Times also understands that Minister Rodrigues-Birkett was also assured by her Surinamese counterpart that appropriate remedial measures
will be taken by Suriname and action will be taken to avoid a reoccurrence in the future.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry here in the statement said too that it remains committed to the continued deepening of the relations between the Republic of Guyana and the Republic of Suriname and is satisfied that both countries have been addressing the incident under reference in a mature, friendly and good neighbourly manner which is testimony to the strong ties of friendship between both Governments.
It took the opportunity to thank the staff of the Guyana Embassy in Paramaribo for firmly defending the applicable rules of the Vienna Convention during the incident.
Ambassador George was allegedly assaulted by two Surinamese Police Officers who breached international diplomatic
agreements concerning the jurisdiction of Police on the territory of embassies as they attempted to arrest the Ambassador’s chauffeur.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry in Guyana immediately expressed its deepest concerns regarding the assault and the violation of the Vienna Convention.
According to reports, a man had parked his vehi-
cle in front of a “no parking” sign by the gate of the Guyana Embassy. When security indicated his error and requested he remove his vehicle, as it was blocking the entrance to the Embassy, the man then behaved in an aggressive and disorderly manner.
Instead of complying, he reportedly exited his vehicle and then assaulted the security guard on duty.
The Ambassador’s chauffeur then intervened to stop the skirmish, but later became the subject of verbal abuse from the driver of the vehicle.
After refusing to remove his vehicle and continuing to verbally attack the authorities, the Guyana Ambassador instructed his staff to call the local Police.
Two Police ranks arrived and as per the provisions of the Vienna Convention, the Ambassador invited them onto the premises and explained the situation to them.
The officers then
proceeded beyond the Embassy’s gate and engaged in a conversation with the driver of the vehicle. The Policemen then reentered the premises and announced that they had to arrest the Ambassador’s chauffeur as he was a suspect in relation to injuries suffered by the driver who behaved disorderly.
But, as per the Vienna Convention, the Ambassador informed the ranks that they could not effect an arrest on the premises of an embassy and any issue must be addressed through the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
However, the Police Officers disregarded the Ambassador, declaring it was Surinamese territory and that the Ambassador was obstructing their work.
They then proceeded to effect the arrest, and in the process, grabbed on the Ambassador’s clothing, ripping his shirt.
Former Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defense Force, Rear Admiral Gary Best
Former Army Lieutenant Joseph Harmon
Ex-Police Commissioner Winston Felix
Ambassador to Suriname Keith George
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Lackin
DPP rubbishes Kaieteur News report on retrial of PM's son
– says it remains independent, governed by Guyana’s laws
The Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Saturday bashed the Kaieteur Newspaper, hours after it published an article under the caption “DPP’s recommendation to retry PM’s son smacks of Govt interference – APNU+AFC.”
In the article, the DPP Chambers’ integrity was questioned with allegations suggesting that political interference had led to the Chambers’ recommendation that the son of Prime Minister Samuel Hinds be retried on a domestic violence charge although he was already found guilty.
But the DPP Chambers said the article is nothing but misleading. In a release, the Chambers said, “this Office is an indepen-
dent Office and all legal advice is given in accordance with the Laws of Guyana and the facts contained in Police files received from the Guyana Police Force.”
Alluding to the matter involving Samuel Hinds Jr, the DPP Chambers explained that the case was heard by one Magistrate, and although she had convicted the defendant based on the evidence, he was never sentenced.
“The issue in this case therefore is whether one Magistrate can hold a trial, hearing the evidence and convicting the defendant and a different Magistrate sentence the said defendant.”
This issue the Chambers said is addressed in Section 35 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Procedure) Act, Chapter 10:02.
The law states that, “the court shall at the conclusion of the hearing or within six weeks thereafter at a subsequent sitting give its decision in the cause, either by dismissing the complaint or by making such order against the defendant as the case requires. Where before the court gives decision, the Magistrate ceases to exercise jurisdiction in the magisterial district or to hold office it shall be lawful for him, within six weeks of the conclusion of the hearing, to lodge with the clerk of the court his written decision. The court shall read the decision at the earliest opportunity after notice to the parties and the decision when read, shall be deemed to be the decision of the court.”
The Chambers emphasised that the law clearly states that the Magistrate who hears the matter shall give the decision. It was further emphasised that one Magistrate cannot hear the matter and another give the decision.
“Decision has been interpreted by the courts in judicial precedents to mean a final adjudication, which includes a verdict and a sentence.
As such, since there was no sentencing prior to the departure of the trial Magistrate, the mere verdict cannot be deemed a final adjudication of the matter; and most importantly another Magistrate who did not hold the trial cannot sentence the defendant. This is contrary to the law.
UNDP should approach Govt with mediation proposal – HPS
Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS)
Dr Roger Luncheon has condemned the procedural approach undertaken by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Office in Guyana regarding its mediation proposal, the Eminent Persons Initiative (EPI).
At his post-Cabinet media briefing on Friday, Dr Luncheon said while the EPI
is a welcomed programme, taking into consideration that it may be useful in light of the upcoming May 11th General and Regional Elections, the procedural approach was misdirected.
The HPS pointed out that Cabinet was informed about the proposal by the UNDP’s local office through the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and is of the view that the pro-
posal should have been taken to Central Government instead of the Commission.
“Where the Eminent Persons Initiative is concerned, the PPP/C (People’s Progressive Party/Civic) Administration contends that it is misdirected to GECOM in the first place, and it should be brought to the attention of Central Government with whom UNDP should and must en-
Younge’s Take
Avoiding post elections violence
Guyana has a troubling and worrying history that is rich with examples of what can go wrong when political leaders use subtle language which encourages their supporters to reject the results of any electoral process, be it local Government or General and Regional elections.
There are also many examples of how Guyanese have suffered as a people whenever there are instances of looting, civil disobedience, political protests and marches, political executions, race-hate and general violence egged on by the cunning, sensationalist and opportunistic tongues of politicians.
Each time politicians decide that they will not accept the elections results because it was allegedly rigged or flawed, Guyana suffers irreparable damage and prolonged socio-economic as well as political setbacks.
Post elections violence, as has been the case in the past, also sends an iron dagger through the hearts of national and ethnic unity leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of those whom it has indirectly affected, and an even bitter taste on the tongues of those who have been hurt directly.
A close glance at the violence which followed the declaration of results by GECOM back in 1997, 2001 and 2006 paints a picture of the horror stories that occur whenever politicians adopt provocative and irresponsible stances to suit their egos or influence the process.
gage,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.
Dr Luncheon further explained that mediation is not within the ambit of responsibilities that GECOM is constitutionally mandated with. “This ain’t exactly GECOM’s cup of tea. GECOM is constitutionally charged, in terms of the elections, with managing the elections and this foray into mediation of possible conflict arising during or as a result of the elections isn’t GECOM’s business. GECOM is constitutionally focusing on management of elections,” he emphasised.
When established, the EPI will comprise of a group of eminent Guyanese who will act as mediators, in the face of any contention with the elections and the electoral process, to the contending parties.
On the other hand, as it relates to the observer missions’ report, Dr Luncheon explained that he has not received the report on the electoral needs assessment which was done by the Caribbean Community (Caricom), the United Nations (UN), the Organisations of American States (OAS) and Commonwealth.
“I did mention before our strong expectations is that the commitment to participate in electoral observer missions would see the presence of Caricom, of the Commonwealth, would see the presence of the OAS, and maybe we are still for confirmation of these,” the Cabinet Secretary remarked.
Additionally, the HPS mentioned that Cabinet is also awaiting confirmation from others including the Governments of India and South Africa as well as the Organisation of Islamic Countries.
The fact that all of Guyana’s elections since 1992 have been observed by local independent groups comprising of civil society and religious organizations, have not stopped the violence from taking place.
Similarly, the fact that the elections are also observed by key international and democratically aligned organizations with a wealth of experience has also never avoided a transgression to violence.
It should be noted that all of the elections held since 1992 have been found to be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner despite the few instances where there were concerns about the accuracy of the results and the Voters List.
The truth is the Opposition has never taken responsibility for the violence which occurs after the elections whenever the elected Government or ruling party-in-waiting make the charges that the violence was instigated deliberately to cause instability in the country.
It is the PPP/C that is most time found appealing for calm and to its supporters, who most times suffer more whenever there is post elections violence, to remain off the streets and accept the results whatever it may be.
There is a dangerous trend developing in the run up to this year’s elections which must not escape the attention of the diplomatic community, civil society organization or GECOM.
The Opposition appears bent on painting a picture to their supporters that they have already won the upcoming elections.
Their speakers at political rallies are also telling those present that Opposition coalition’s Presidential Candidate David Granger will be President of this country after May 11 and they are making all sorts of promises, some of which require a two-thirds majority, again painting a picture that they have already won the polls.
David Granger has recently told a diaspora meeting that the voters list is “dirty” and that his party is concerned about the increase in names therein.
Additionally, Granger, who is an ex-Army Commander, has formed a clandestine alliance with the AFC and is recruiting former high-level Army and Police Officers, with the latest additions being Paul Slowe and Gary Best.
There has also been an unprecedented fetching of crowds by the Opposition coalition from one party of the country to the next for their unity meeting to paint the position that a majority of Guyanese believe that “it is time for change” and are supportive of Granger and Moses Nagamootoo as their Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates.
Attention must also be focused to the distasteful attacks on supporters of the ruling party on social media including Clinton Urling who is a businessman that has decided to throw his support behind the PPP/C.
The Opposition is also using very suggestive statements which seek to link the death of Political activist Crum-Ewing to the ruling party and Government without even awaiting the outcome of the police probe.
But, all that aside, Guyanese must not allow themselves to be used as political scapegoats. They must reject all forms of post electoral violence, stay off the streets, express sentiment whenever politicians with either the opposition or Government attempt to incite any form of violence, they must accept the results if GECOM and others declare that they are accurate and fair.
In other words, Guyanese must remain united as it would appear that there are troubling times ahead given the posture of the opposition if it does not win.
No one suffers the most whenever there is political violence than the ordinary citizens.
US Chargé d’Affaires opens model farm in NA
US Chargé d’Affaires
Bryan Hunt has recently commissioned a model farm in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
The farm, which will benefit school children who will be writing the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, is funded by Food for the Poor (FFTP) and Oldendorff Carriers Guyana Inc.
FFTP contributed $2 million while Oldendorff Carriers donated an undisclosed sum to the project which was coordinated by St Francis Community Developers (SFCD).
According to Hunt, community projects which are organised and developed by the community and funded by businesses give more assistance to the development of both urban and rural communities. In terms of Guyana, he said there are several such projects which fall in that category that are supported by the people of the United States through
FFTP.
The model fish farm situated at Princess Elizabeth Road, New Amsterdam, will utilise different techniques in producing both crops and livestock. The project will allow secondary school students to utilise varying farming techniques as part of their School Based Assignment (SBA).
The farm which is equipped with a shade house which utilises a drip system also had a fish pound. The farm is only available for students attending secondary schools in New Amsterdam and who will be sitting Agricultural Science at the CSEC level.
The Chargé d’Affaires said students will have a tremendous responsibility to move forward in technological advancement as they prepare for their examinations.
He said the need to utilise new techniques to grow crops is needed since the world is being required to produce more food. “In order to meet the food demand of
Region 9 likely to face prolonged dry weather – Minister Ramsammy
Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy has cautioned residents of Region Nine (Upper Takatu, Upper Essequibo) that the current bout of dry weather patterns in the region is expected to be prolonged until the next few months.
In an interview with Guyana Times, Dr Ramsammy explained that he was expecting severe dry weather since last year and had even sent out an advisory regarding the same. He noted that the whole of Guyana has been experiencing below normal rainfall over the past 12 months; as such the current bout of drought in Region Nine and part of Regions One and Eight, did not catch Government off guard and they were preparing ahead of time. However, he noted the severity of the situation was not expected.
“The situation in Region Nine has evolved into a gen-
US Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt
the coming population, we have to double global food production within the next 40 years. That is a tremendous challenge. It is one that we have not faced in many, many years,” he said.
“We have to be able to take agriculture production from where it is today and increase it significantly over the next few years and those increases are not going to come by things done
by Government or by the United Nations, it will have to be done through projects, things like this farm,” he added.
Hunt is of the view that the technology that is being utilised at the new model farm is the type of technology that has to be adopted around the globe. “The innovative young people who will be using the farm are going to experiment and try
new crops and try new ways to increase yields in existing crops and hopefully they can take that out to the agricultural community too so that Berbice can be the bread basket of not just Guyana but the South American region as a whole.”
Meanwhile, in giving a background to the project, SFCD President Alex Foster noted that the land for the project was donated by the All Saints Church of New Amsterdam. He said Oldendorff Carriers Guyana Inc was involved in developing the infrastructure which included fencing the two acre compound and digging of the two fish ponds. FFTP supplied all of the equipment needed. The fish farm, he said, will serve the New Amsterdam prison, the secondary schools in New Amsterdam and the New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI).
Speaking on behalf of Oldendorff Carriers Guyana Inc, Marlon Jhaundu noted that the company has a moral obligation to assist with
the development of New Amsterdam.
In thanking SFCD, Food For The Poor Guyana and Oldendorff Carriers, Regional Education Officer, Region Six, Volika Jaikishun said it is a blessing that all of the secondary schools in the town will have a farm.
Meanwhile, Fisheries Officer Rabani Gajnabi noted that it will help students who are preparing to sit CSEC examinations. “The project will assist students with their SBA and it will also allow them to complete it in a timely manner.”
Chief Executive officer (CEO) of FFTP, Ken Vincent, added that FFTP is always there when there is a need.
“Food For The Poor is also involved in health where we provide equipment and supplies for hospitals.”
The organisation, he said, also contributes to sport, education and agriculture. “Food For The Poor Guyana must say thanks to the people of the United States who have been donating.”
uine drought situation,” he said. The Minister outlined that the region was supposed to be experiencing its rainy season presently and its dry weather season, in the May/June period. “So what we are experiencing presently is significantly below normal, rainfall in Region Nine at time when they should be in a rainy season and they are now rapidly entering normal dry season.”
According to Ramsammy, his Ministry’s Hydrometeorological Department has been monitoring the situation as it relates to the short-term and long-term effects of the change in the weather patterns. “In terms of the present situation, Region Nine is experiencing significantly below normal rainfall and they prognosis for the up months is that the region should be experiencing conditions that are drier than normal,” he said.
The drought situation in Region Nine is expected to last over the next few months
Teen’s body found at Blankenburg foreshore
BY BHISHAM MOHAMED
One week after a West Bank Demerara (WBD) teenager went missing, her body was discovered on Saturday afternoon at the Blankenburg foreshore, WBD. The gruesome discovery was made at about 14:30h.
The dead teenager who was identified as Devika Kumarie Ramodar, 17, of Lot 59 Bella Dam, WBD was found in a semi nude state.
She is believed to have been raped then murdered. The body bore several marks of violence and investigators are of the belief that she was killed then dumped.
According to information received, the teenager who worked at Parshram’s General Store on Water Street, Georgetown, left home on Saturday morning and never returned.
Several notices were placed on television for the public’s assistance to no avail.
Following the discovery on Saturday, Police sought the assistance of the missing teen’s parents in identifying the corpse due to the condition of decomposition.
She was positively identified by a mauve top that she left home with, a bangle she was wearing and a black and silver ring.
an issue at work involving the now dead teen, the boss and another guy referred to as “Raj”.
She made several attempts to contact her daughter but all the calls went unanswered. It was until after noon on the same day, the teenager telephoned her mother telling that she was going with “Richard”, another friend to Diamond, East Bank Demerara to look for a job.
“I tell she that if it pass two o’clock, I go call the police and tell them you missing”, she stated. That was the last time
The discovery of Ramodar came on the heels of the murder of 47-year-old Samantha Benjamin-Mc Ewan of Middle Walk, Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD) whose dismembered body was found at Annandale Seawall.
One week prior to that discovery, the body of 15-yearold Alicia Alli of 6th Street, Cummings Lodge, ECD was recovered from the seashore
in a nude state. An autopsy revealed that the teen was strangled to death and received blunt trauma to the head.
Kevin Ramsaywack was arraigned for the murder of Benjamin-Mc Ewan but the Police are still probing the death of Alli. Several persons were questioned by were subsequently released.
The woman stated that as soon she arrived at the parlour, she recognised the clothes that her daughter was wearing when she left home. Then she saw the bangle and the ring. Her body, she noted, was swollen and had no eyes.
She recalled that prior to her daughter’s disappearance on Saturday last, she received a telephone call from one of her daughter’s work colleagues, informing her about
Two young men have been detained for questioning into the teen’s death. Jagranie Omadatt, mother of the dead teenager told Guyana Times that she was at home when she received a telephone call from her father requesting that she visits the Ezekiel Funeral Home to identify her daughter’s remains.
she heard from her daughter. When questioned, Richard who is known to the family, reportedly told the relatives that
he did not see the young woman since the Thursday evening he dropped her home.
He admitted that on the day the teenager went missing; he saw a number of missed calls from her phone but was too busy to return the call. He is reportedly an electrician.
The relatives did not have a chance to speak with the other person who is in custody at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station.
The body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination. The teenager leaves to mourn her parents and three siblings. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.
Mechanic jailed for Kitty motorbike theft
AMechanic was sent to prison on Friday when he was brought before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for stealing a motorcycle.
Benjamin Smartt stands accused of stealing a Lifan 250CC motorbike plated CHH 1594 on Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown, on March 20. The bike belonged to the Virtual
Complainant (VC) Joseph Barnes. Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones presented the matter to the court. He addressed Court Five for an application to have the matter prosecuted in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts instead of the High Court. This was granted. However, Prosecutor Jones asked the court to not release the defendant
on bail. He explained that the nature of the offence the accused is charged with is quite grave and the penalty attached to it may make him a flight risk. In addition, the Prosecutor stated that more charges are expected to be levied against the defendant, which may make him unlikely to appear in court if released.
Nevertheless, Smartt told the court that he has
never been charged for any offence before, adding that he is a respected member of society as he plays football and is a part of many activities. He gave his age as 21 and told the court he lives at 32 First Street, Silvertown, Wismar Linden.
Magistrate Latchman denied him bail and ordered that he return to court on April 16 at 09:00h.
Driver refused bail in West Berbice triple death car accident
A28-year-old New Amsterdam driver was refused bail when he appeared before Magistrate Rhondel Weaver for causing the death of three persons. The accident occurred on March 30, while the young man was driving motor car PRR 1163 on the West Berbice Public Road.
Devon Pydana, of Lot 39 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) was not required to plea to three of the four charges read to him at the Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court.
The grandson of former national wicketkeeper and batsman Milton Pydana was refused bail on all three counts of causing death by dangerous driving.
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that he refused to take a breathalyzer test.
Pydana is accused of causing the deaths of Tommy Thomas, 22, of Lots 20-30 St John Street, New Amsterdam; Jevon Gregory James, 19, a Guyana Defence Force soldier of Amsville Housing Scheme, New Amsterdam; and Andrew Doris, 19, of Lot 150 Vryheid Lust, East Coast Demerara while driving motor car PRR 1163 on the Golden Grove Public Road, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice). Pydana is scheduled to return to court on
April 15 for a Police progress report.
At the time of the accident, nine persons were in the car which slammed into two parked trucks. The three who were seated in the trunk of the car were pronounced dead on arrival at the Fort Wellington Hospital.
The others were hospitalised and subsequently discharged with the exception of one. Brian Simon, 26, suffered two broken ribs and a punctured lung.
The others who were involved in the accident are Janet Blackman, 28; Danielle Toney, 19; Lavannie Ross, 17; and Jamica Munroe, 18.
Devon Pydana
Jevon James
Tommy Thomas
Devika Kumarie Ramodar
Alicia Alli
Samantha Benjamin-Mc Ewan
Legal Affairs Ministry to commission new courts
– Commercial/ Land Registry to move in week’s time
By anastacia clementson
The Legal Affairs Ministry says it intends to increase the number of courts around Guyana so as to get justice faster to persons in rural and hinterland communities.
Guyana Times was made to understand that the Ministry also has plans to construct a host of courts that will change the justice system in Guyana forever.
Backlogs have been a problem in the court system for several years for which the Ministry has been working tirelessly to reduce with additions of Magistrates, Judges and even more courts. Less than a week ago saw the commissioning of a Magistrate’s Court in the Number 51 Village, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
While there, President Donald Ramotar commented on the need for the judiciary to do more for the people with such courts.
With this in mind, the judiciary has committed to undertake a study by experts to examine the real reasons for the sloth in the judiciary and to generate recommendations designed to rectify the identified deficiencies.
Consequently, the Ministry and the judiciary are working together to ensure that there are
more frequent sittings of the Magistrate’s Courts in the rural communities and in particular, the hinterland communities. Thus, such areas are being equipped with the necessary comforts to enable Magistrates can have longer “stints the hinterland communities.”
Nevertheless, steps are being taken now to allevi-
rooms. There are also plans in place for another Land Court to be constructed in Georgetown. This will have the advantages of Judges’ Chambers and Registries.
With the addition of more Magistrate’s Court,s it is expected that much strain can be taken off of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and
ate the length of time cases are taking to be heard and conclude.
The Ministry has stated “within the next few weeks a new Magistrate’s Court with residential quarters and a sub-Magisterial district office will be commissioned at Lethem.”
To add to this, contracts have already been awarded for the reconstruction of a bigger Magistrate’s Court at Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara and a new edifice in the Supreme Court compound to house additional court-
the other few courts in the three counties. Not only will cases be able to get the needed attention but it will also reduce the time that cases usually take to be completed.
It has been known that lengthy time usually frustrates the Virtual Complainants in matters which impedes justice, as many cases are dismissed when they opt not to show after a month of this.
Vanuata Radzik from Help and Shelter has also informed this publication of several cases where vic-
tims of rape choose to let a matter go after it was before the courts for quite a while.
In addition, the release stated that a new Mediation Centre will be established in Essequibo to complement those in Georgetown and New Amsterdam, Berbice. These centres facilitate backlogs as it takes cases that can be worked out privately out of the normal court system. Also, such centres prove to be a great tool in teaching citizens to better resolve their issues without breaking the law.
Meanwhile, the long awaited home for the Commercial/Land Registry will be finally stepping in, in its new home, that is, the old site where the New Building Society was stationed. Here the registry will be given every needed tool of technological advancement to quicken search for records.
Additionally, the modernisation process that is already ongoing at the Supreme Court Registry and the Deeds and Land Registries will continue with the move, including that of the digitisation of the records, as well as the general process at these institutions.
Shortly the Land Registry in Berbice will move into its new accommodation at Main Street, New Amsterdam as well.
Carpenter gets bail for threatening language
Acarpenter was placed on $40,000 bail at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday for the use of threatening language.
The man, Keith
Roy Harris, age 48, of Lot 14 Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge which was read to him by Magistrate Judy Latchman.
It is alleged that on
Friday March 27, at East Ruimveldt, Harris made use of threatening language against the Virtual Complainant (VC) Alicia Martin, resulting in a breach of the peace.
According to the
Region 9 likely to face prolonged...
On this note, the Minister underscored the need for a consorted effort to be made to address the likely situation in the region overall. Dr Ramsammy stated that the Agriculture Ministry has been playing its part in addressing the needs of crops and livestock in the region. He noted that they have been supplying the affected areas with the necessary materials such as pesticides to protect the crops from the severe case of drought.
The Agriculture Minister further declared his Ministry’s preparedness with a full blown drought response as it relates to the agriculture sector during worsen weather conditions anticipated over the next few months.
Additionally, he pointed out that the lack of water access in Region Nine is worrisome for Government and his Ministry also, as such the situation was being monitored and certain measures have been implemented to address the change of weather patterns in the region.
On Friday, Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon disclosed that the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) was mandated to coordinate a re-
sponse team which is being led by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, the Local Government Ministry, Housing and Water Ministry, and the Public Works Ministry along with the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
The team will be sourcing water from accessible sources such as rivers that still flows and GWI water wells, then dispatch it via tractors and trailors to the affected areas for domestic and agricultural use. The measure had to be undertaken since most of the shallow wells and creeks in the region are either already dried up or almost dried up.
<<<Guyana Times>>> was made to understand that the Mocamoca Creek currently has very little water left and the Kuma Fall is dried up along with the Tabatinga Creek. These creeks usually flow into the Takatu River but have dried up way before reaching the river over the past two weeks.
This situation has affected many of the residents and businesses operating in the region. One businessman in Lethem, Daniel Gadjie, has expressed concerns over the limited access to water.
Granger’s comment that he used words from a CoI Report to describe the Army in 1973 not supported by the report itself
By Rakesh RampeRtaB
Brigadier (retired) David Granger’s remarks to Guyana Times that his partisan description of Army involvement in the 1973 General and Regional Elections, has its origin in the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Report filed by Justice Dhanessar Jhappan, is not supported by evidence in the report. Before proceeding further, a few preliminary remarks.
In 2006, before Granger ran for office, I wrote what may be the first article criticising his portrayal of the aforesaid Army role, as stated in his booklet, The New Road: A Short History of the Guyana Defence Force: 1966-1976. My article, titled, “Why is Mr Granger Distorting Our History?” was for the Guyana Under Siege website.
Over the years, others used the article’s contents to criticise Granger, and request an explanation. I also asked that the New Road be removed from the GDF’s website for its unquestionable partisan bias, where it was posted as official Army literature. It was removed.
During the last elections, Granger had selected pages of the Report of the CoI into the deaths of Bholanauth Parmanand, Jagan Ramessar and Vernon Campbell, by Justice Dhanessar Jhappan, distributed as if to suggest that he was correct in what he wrote.
To greater insulate himself from criticism, he recently said: “Well it is not my job to have a new Commission of Inquiry [CoI] into what Justice Jhappan did over 40 years ago. I simply quoted in my book or I put a phrase in my book referring to what Dr Justice Jhappan said. I’m not going to decide now whether they behaved in one manner or the other” (Guyana Times, April 2015).
First, what he said about the Army is not supported by what the justice wrote in his report. Granger’s writing described the action of the Army deployed across Guyana on Elections Day; in contrast, the justice’s report is concerned with, specifically, actions of one lieutenant (Henry) and a few of his companions at Number 64 Village were two men are shot, and the neighbouring villages (eg, Number 65 Village).
Granger’s idea of GDF history for 1973 was not limited to events on the Corentyne corridor. But the justice’s report was, and this is evident in the very title of his report and his mandate. Indeed, on page 2 of the report, the justice said he had to remind some that his “terms of reference did not include conduct of the election...”
Said another way, the description of one or a handful of soldiers by the justice cannot be used by Granger to justify his biased description of the work of the Army at large.
Police Prosecutor, Harris threatened to chop Martin after they had a dispute over a cellular phone. Bail was granted in the sum of $40,000 and the matter will be recalled on April 16.
from page 15
“It is very difficult to cope with because we have a limited supply of water so we have to conserve. The place is very dry,” he related to this newspaper.
Gadjie, who is also the owner of a hotel in the area, explained that the only reliable source of water is from the GWI well which is about two miles away from his hotel. He noted that persons with trucks would get water from GWI or any other nearby source and sell it for $5000 per tank.
On the other hand, the immense drought in the area has contributed to disastrous forest fires which have been sweeping through the Aranaputa Village, North Rupununi, for days.
Vice Chairman of the Aranaputa Forestry Society Anod Jacobus, told this publication that the fires are a serious threat to the residents’ lives, noting that it has already destroyed many farms and camps in the region. “The fire is really terrible, people farms are destroyed, the tourism resort is completely ruined, it is burnt to nothing, the logging concession is under fire,” he related in dismay.
Secondly, Granger indulged in very derogatory descriptions of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and its supporters, which are not in the justice’s report. One example is referring to the them as “gangsters.” Clearly, this is not Army literature but pro-PNC propaganda imposed on what ought to be a national institution.
Third, here is, arguably, the most important and revealing paragraph describing the actions of the most involved soldier (Lieutenant Henry) at Number 64 Village were civilians sustained gunshots.
The justice said: “Taking all these circumstances into consideration, especially the important task of escorting the ballot boxes with so few men under his command, I find that Lieutenant Henry acted with consideration and thought under those very difficult situations, and when he fired at the crowd, it was both necessary and reasonable; and that he was justified in so doing.”
The justice did not use the word “splendidly” here or elsewhere. Here, he cautiously used the words “necessary,” “reasonable,” “thought,” and “consideration,” none of which is synonymous or similar to the word “splendidly,” used by Granger.
Fourth, the justice’s report says nothing of political education, but Granger says that the soldiers “saved the day” from the PPP and its supporters because of the political education they received, as early as 1971. Perhaps Granger is suggesting that the Army and the PNC colluded since 1971 to remove ballot boxes two years later, and deny others access to them.
A writing must be capable of survival to be credible. The New Road is a very informative work discredited by its writer’s fabrication done to comply with then People’s National Congress (PNC) ideology. And it reflects poorly that he now seeks protection in the words of Justice Jhappan, but this unfair exchange of words Granger is trying to sell the public, is just not supported by the report.
Finally, one who glorifies the undermining of people’s right to speak politically by ballot or bullhorn should not be celebrated. But a dangerous new culture is afoot, as politicians are forcefeeding voters the idea that the past is dead. Voters are told to vote as if in a vacuum. No distinction is made; even theft of ballots is now acceptable as long as the dust and blood on them have faded.
But the past is not dead for Granger. Not yet. PNC history must be celebrated and, to speak metaphorically, instead of ending the war, he keeps circling the wagon as if his resistance to critics is sanctified by PNC history. It explains his refusal to answer Frederick Kissoon who, in 2006, asked Granger to comment on the many rapes that occurred during national service.
The newly commissioned Number 51 Magistrate’s Court is just one of the new courts expected this year
Barca fail to make 10 straight wins
Barcelona threw away a two-goal lead and were held to a draw by battling Sevilla in La Liga.
Substitute Kevin Gameiro’s goal six minutes from time capped a fine comeback from the home side.
Lionel Messi put the league leaders ahead with a superb curled goal, with Neymar doubling the lead from a free-kick.
Ever Banega then pulled one back and Gameiro’s equaliser means Barca are only two points ahead of Real Madrid.
Real had moved to within a point of Barca with their comfortable 3-0 win over Eibar earlier in the day.
Sevilla’s spirited fightback did not look likely during an opening 30 minutes where Barca, chasing the
La Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League treble, were close to their best.
Messi struck when Sevilla defender Benoit Tremoulinas allowed the Argentine too much space, cutting back onto his left foot before bending his shot just inside the post for his 34th goal of the season.
Neymar doubled the lead with a near-perfect free-kick that curled over the wall into the top corner and beyond static goalkeeper Rico Gonzalez. Barca’s Brazilian forward has ended a run of seven La Liga games without a goal.
Banega’s firm shot from outside the area reduced the arrears when Barca keeper Claudio Bravo pushed the Argentine midfielder’s effort onto the post and into the
bottom corner.
Sevilla were determined to preserve their unbeaten record this season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium and they kept pressing for an equaliser after the break.
Carlos Arturo Bacca, top scorer for his club, wasted a good chance to draw level by shooting over the bar, but Barca’s Luis Suarez did likewise and also badly mis-hit another chance to increase his side’s lead.
The open nature of the game continued and Sevilla were level when Gameiro, who had replaced Bacca, was free at the far post to convert Aleix Vidal’s pinpoint low cross to salvage a fully deserved point for his fifth-placed side. (BBC Sport)
NBA roundup… Thunder, Pelicans locked in battle for final playoff spot
Marcus Smart scored 19 points, and the visiting Boston Celtics maintained their grip on a playoff spot by holding off the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers, 9990, on Friday night.
Five Celtics players scored in double figures. Isaiah Thomas had 17 points, Avery Bradley scored 15, Tyler Zeller had 13, and Brandon Bass added 12.
The Celtics and the Nets are tied, at 37-42, but the Celtics hold the tiebreaker after winning three of the four meetings between them. Boston is 21-12 since Feb. 21, when it was a season-high 14 games below .500.
The Cavaliers played without the injured AllStar Kyrie Irving and used their reserves extensively after having clinched the No. 2 seed in the East on
Wednesday. Cleveland entered the game having won 18 consecutive home games.
Kevin Love led Cleveland with 19 points.
Thunder 116, Kings 103
Russell Westbrook scored 27 points and had 10 assists as Oklahoma City held off visiting Sacramento and
Woods lead Masters chase to reel in Spieth
Tiger Woods was leading the chase as third round play at the Masters began with the field desperately trying to reel in frontrunner Jordan Spieth on Saturday.
Spieth held a five-shot overnight lead on nearest challenger journeyman Charley Hoffman with the rest of the field lagging seven or more strokes back.
The icy cool 21-year-old American has threatened to turn the year’s first major into a runaway as he reached the halfway mark in a Masters record 36-hole total of 14-under 130.
But Woods, a four-time Masters champion, was mounting one of his patented third-round charges with a run of three birdies from the second to race up the leaderboard.
With soft conditions, the ear-
ly starters were able to attack the most difficult pin positions of the week, 2011 Masters champion Charl Schwartzel of South Africa and 2013 winner Adam Scott of Australia get-
ting in on the chase with birdies at the second and third to join Woods on fiveunder.
World number one Rory McIlroy, bidding for a career grand slam, made a spectacular start with an eagle on the par-five second to fly up the leaderboard and join a large group on fourunder.
McIlroy, who was on the brink of missing the cut with nine holes to play on Friday, and twice defending champion Bubba Watson were one of the several marquee pairings attracting large galleries on another muggy afternoon at Augusta National.
Woods and Sergio Garcia are another pairing in the spotlight, the 14-time major winner and the fiery Spaniard having engaged in a longrunning feud. (Reuters)
remained even with New Orleans for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Oklahoma City scored the last 6 points of the first half, then the Kings fought back again in the third quarter.
The Thunder closed the quarter strong, outscoring Sacramento by 10-4 with Westbrook leading the way. He hit a 3-pointer and a driving layup to put the Thunder back in front for good.
Pelicans 90, Suns 75 Anthony Davis had 19 points and 9 rebounds, leading host New Orleans past Phoenix.
Eric Gordon scored 15 points, Tyreke Evans had 14, and Dante Cunningham and Norris Cole each added
12 to help the Pelicans keep pace with Oklahoma City. Omer Asik had a seasonhigh 18 rebounds.
Pacers 107, Pistons 103
Rodney Stuckey scored 24 points, including three straight jumpers down the stretch, and Indiana kept up its playoff push with a win at Detroit.
Indiana (36-43) has won four in a row and is one game behind the Nets and the Boston Celtics for the last two Eastern Conference playoff spots. All three teams won on Friday.
Raptors 101, Magic 99 Lou Williams made a 3-pointer with 9.9 seconds left to lift Toronto to a win at Orlando, the Raptors’ 11th straight victory over the Magic.
DeMar DeRozan led Toronto with 29 points. Tyler Hansbrough added 16 points, and Williams finished with 13.
Bucks 99, Knicks 91 Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the lineup, scoring 23 points, and helped move Milwaukee to the verge of a playoff spot with victory at the Knicks.
The Bucks would have secured a place in the postseason with losses by either Boston, the Nets or Indiana, but all three won.
Langston Galloway scored 20 points, and Lance Thomas added 16 for the Knicks.
Hawks 104, Hornets 80 Mike Muscala scored 17 points, and host Atlanta beat Charlotte, reaching 60 wins for the first time in franchise history.
Kyle Korver had 16 points for Atlanta (60-19), and Al Horford finished with 15 points and 8 rebounds. (The New York Times)
Lionel Messi in action during Barcelona’s draw
Tiger Woods
Russell Westbrook
Anthony Davis
Lens Craft Optical/EBFA U-13 League...
Herstelling, Agricola, Mocha
take full points on first day
Shoran James maintained his consistency in the final third to register the lone goal that earned full points for Herstelling Raiders over Grove Hi Tech while Agricola Red Triangle’s Leon Moore netted the competition’s first hat-trick along with a double from teammate Shamar Morrison to highlight the opening day of the inaugural Lens Craft Optical/East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-13 league.
All the action took place at the hub of football on the East Bank, Grove Playfield. Also taking full points but without working up a sweat was Mocha Champs whose opponents, Craig, failed to put in an appearance.
In the main game, rivalry between Herstelling Raiders and Grove Hi Tech was renewed and it was the same script but a different play.
Shoran James it was who scored the lone and winning goal against Grove in the Under-11 Pee Wee game a few weeks ago and was in repeat mode yesterday.
Playing 11v11 using the full length of the pitch, both sides approached the game positively and the action ensued from end to end, but with
five minutes left to play in the 30 minutes a half allocation, James tucked in the opening and winning goal from a goal mouth scrimmage.
Opportunities were very limited in the encounter, but Herstelling had the chance to double their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 54th minute but the ball was punched away by second half goalie Safwan Cordis. Grove were desperate to pull one back and switched their Under-11 most prolific goal scorer Devon Padmore from duties between the uprights to the forward line. Their efforts however were all nullified by solid defending from Herstelling.
In the day’s opening match, Agricola, anoth-
er emerging side, trounced
Diamond United 7-0 on account of the league’s first hat-trick off the boot of Leon Moore and a brace from Shamar Morrison.
Agricola’s intent to hunt goals was shown to their opponents very early. They could have very well opened the scoring much earlier than the 20th minute were it not for a missed penalty from Kerwayne Lyte, his shot was blocked by goalkeeper Teon Forde who was summoned to open field duty in the second half.
It was another penalty that opened the scoring for Agricola, this time, Leon Moore made no mistake in hitting his shot past Forde. Five minutes later the
score was doubled when Shamar Morrison netted the first of his brace, and on the stroke of half time, it was a 3-0 advantage to Agricola, compliments of Lyte’s goal as he made amends for his earlier missed chance from the spot.
The first two goals after the break came off the boot of Moore, who scored in the 37th and 39th minute. Morrison was at it again in the 40th minute as Diamond just could not find a way to break down the Agricola defense.
Sealing the deal five minutes to full time was Jared Corrica who came on as a substitute one minute earlier; his header sailed into the back of the nets to complete an exciting 7-0 win for his side.
Mocha Champs were gifted two goals and three points as a result of Craig’s no show. The competition will continue on Saturday at the same venue with Diamond taking on Kuru Kururu Warriors from 10:00h to be followed by a game between Grove Hi Tech and Agricola Red Triangle, the feature game brings together Herstelling Raiders and Craig.
Guyana fall to TT in NACRA 15’s championship defence
Defending Champions of the North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 15’s Championship, Guyana lost a thriller to Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday in the twin island republic. Guyana found it tough
to find their rhythm in the first half and fell behind early as Trinidad and Tobago led the Guyanese 12-0 at halftime. However, in the second half Guyana showed the grit and determination that has made them one of
the most feared Caribbean teams to play their way back into the game only to fall short by two points as the game ended 22-20.
Guyana’s Kevin McKenzie had two tries in the 42nd and 78th minutes while Avery Corbin had
one try in the 64th minute. Richard Staglon also had a try in the 72nd minute.
Captain of the Guyanese squad, Ryan Gonsalves missed four crucial conversions that would have surely help the Guyanese pull of the come from behind win.
Bravo catch makes Wisden photo of the year
An image of Dwayne Bravo taking a fulllength diving catch has been named the WisdenMCC Cricket Photograph of the Year.
Taken by Getty Images photographer Matthew Lewis, the photo shows Bravo stretching to dismiss James Faulkner of Australia in last year’s ICC Twenty20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
West Indies won by the match by six wickets with two deliveries remaining.
Matthew Lewis commented on his winning photo.
“I had just returned to my pitchside position after taking photos of the crowd and this was my first picture after sitting back down.
“Dwayne Bravo first fumbled the ball facing away from me but then twisted around 180 degrees and took a terrific catch.
“My focus had been on the batsman but I swiftly
switched to Bravo to capture his outstretched hands as he held on to the ball. It was an amazing catch and it was great to have captured it.”
Runners-up photos were Australia and South Africa’s players leaving the field at the end of day three of the second Test at Port Elizabeth in February, taken by Getty Images’ photographer Morne de Klerk, and another by Lewis, showing Bangladesh A’s Nurul Hasan looking despairingly at his scattered stumps, bowled by South African Dale Steyn in the ICC World Twenty20 warm-up match in Bangladesh in March. Other winning images featured broken bats, broken noses and poignant portrait of Philip Hughes.
Over 400 entries from around the world were received, including those from amateur photographers.
(Digicel SportsMax)
GKC holds successful grading exercise
The Guyana Karate College and its affiliated member dojos held its first grading of the year March 28 at the Carifesta Sports Complex, Carifesta Avenue.
The students were graded by Master Frank WoonA-Tai, M.S., F.G.M.S., ninth-degree black belt, who is the Chairman and Chief instructor of GKC and the International Karate Daigaku(IKD) world karate organisation.
Also present were Sensei Jeffery Wong (senior instructor of GKC and a 6th dan black belt), Sensei Aubrey Bettencourt (5th dan black belt), Sensei Eric Hing of Central Shotokan (GCC ,3rd Dan) and Sensei Kenrick Cheeks of Shakti Institute (West Coast).
The Grading began with the beginners (white belts), who all performed exceedingly well.
Moving from 10 kyu to 8 kyu were Shane Sarjeant, Saidah Bradford, Aliya Robertson, Rodney Darius, Dhivendra Hanoman, Daniel Sarran and Sarah Parsaud. Exceptional performances at the grading were young Cayla Richards, Gopal Persaud and Ray Samaroo, who moved from 10 Kyu to 7 Kyu. Rico Forris moved from 9 kyu to 8 kyu and Ruel Norton from 9 kyu to 7 kyu. Jayden Jettoo, Christian Jettoo and Joshua Dyall moved from 8 kyu to 7 Kyu followed by Romuald Khan, Diego De Nobrega, Taissa De Nobrega, Mekhi RitchieTaylor, Jonathan NG-AFook Nathanael Archer,
Daniel Denny and Zaine Bispat, who all moved from 7 Kyu to 6 Kyu. Joeancy Singh, Scott Lemuel, Damale Denny, Josiah Dyall, Eaton Low and Ezekiel Poulis all moved to 6 kyu.
In addition Jonathan Robinson, Kelissa Juipter, Alyssa Ramotar, Seon Poulis, Jessica Callender and Aron Hendricks all moved from 5th kyu to 4th kyu.
Moving from 4th kyu to 3rd kyu were Bruce Yong,
Aditya Seetaram, Danielle Khan and Jeremiah Poulis. Jonathan Ramlal, William Grant, William Escarraga, Jun Mikami and Vickram Thani all moved from 3rd Kyu to 2nd Kyu. Also moving one rank higher from 2nd kyu to 1st Kyu were Ronaldo Persaud, Aiden Singh, Jayden Hurry, Alyssa Singh and Dominick Johnson. In the higher ranking, 10 year old Hannah Farinha continues to excel along her karate trail as she moved up
in rank from a 1st degree black belt to a 2nd degree black belt.
She is currently, the youngest female IKD Nidan karateka to achieve this honor preceded by another excellent GKC student, Aliya Wong (presently a 3rd degree black belt).
Attaining 1st degree was Kevin Kellman, who performed exceedingly well.
Adult classes which commenced early this year saw Paula Louis-Grant, Nadia Ramlal and Nalini
Rampersaud moving from 10 kyu to 8 kyu at a later grading. Young Michael Blake also moved from 10 kyu to 9 kyu at this grading. Altogether the first grading for the year 2015 was a tremendous success. The members of the Guyana Karate College are also preparing to defend their International Karate Diagaku World Cup Championship 2012 titles. This tournament is slated to be held in Canada from July 15-19.
Action between Agricola Red Triangle (green) and Diamond United
Participants from the GKC grading exercise
The photo of Bravo in full stretch to take a superb catch
Sport Ministry renews focus on lifeguard training
– 1-week training programme in the pipeline
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
With the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal now fully operational, there is heightened activity in the swimming fraternity, and with that boom comes the need to have trained and certified personnel to supervise the safety and security of those who utilise the pools on a daily basis.
This is an issue that has engaged the Sport Ministry, which is making proactive steps to ensure safety is a top priority in the growth and development of the sport locally.
On Friday last at the closing ceremony of the Sport Ministry/National Sports Commission’s annual Easter swimming camp at the Colgrain Pool on Camp Street, Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony spoke briefly of the need to have persons certified as lifeguards.
With this is mind, he said the ministry will undertake to have a one-week training programme for prospective lifeguards before month-end, similar to the one that was conducted by Life Saving Society of Canada’s representative, Patrick D’Almada, in February 2013.
“As you know, that has been a challenge for us because when they go through the programme, a lot of people sometimes cannot complete the lifeguard training…and you can imagine the various pools that we have in Georgetown if they don’t have qualified lifeguards then we can have very serious repercussions and therefore we need to train people,” Dr Anthony stressed.
The minister highlighted that while persons within the swimming fraternity have basic knowl-
edge about lifeguard skills, it is imperative they become properly certified.
“Because it’s one thing to know maybe some of the things to do, [but] it’s another thing to go through the theoretical and practical programme where you would be properly certified, and that is what we’re offering,” Dr Anthony reasoned.
A lifeguard supervises the safety and rescue of swimmers, surfers, and other water sports participants such as in a swimming pool, water park, or beach.
Lifeguards are strong swimmers, trained in first aid, and certified in water rescue using a variety of aids and equipment depending on the requirements of their particular venue.
Review
During the course in 2013, several persons were accredited with varying levels of certification. D’Almada, who has over 25 years experience as a lifeguard expert,
said at the closing ceremony of that programme that it was “challenge”, but a “special” feeling to work with the bunch of Guyanese.
He also lauded the participants for their cooperation during the course, while pointing out that the hospitality was second to none during his stay here.
D’Almada had also promised to work along with the Sport Ministry to establish a Lifeguard Association, with the “aim of doing public education work in the schools, help to develop regulations for swimming pools and help young people to understand how to swim to survive.”
With this in mind, he donated a quantity of equipment to the ministry to aid in giving the prospective association a head start.
Dr Anthony, in his address to the participants at the opening of that course, said a Lifeguard Course was necessary, but this was just the start, as graduates will be tasked with forming a
Lifeguard Association, one that is independent of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association.
“This programme is one we talked about for quite some time, and one of the things that would have prevented us from optimising the use of the pool was the lack of lifeguards,” the minister said.
Dr Anthony affirmed that the course would be ongoing, as it is important that persons be trained in this regard.
“This will not be a oneoff arrangement. One of the mandates of the graduates is to form an association. We will also look to have continuous training…at least every year we want to put on the calendar a period for lifeguard training right here at the National Aquatic Centre. So we will be working out that arrangement and let people know about it before these programmes early,” Dr Anthony had promised.
McCullum's hundred sets up big win
Brendon McCullum’s second IPL century, his first for Chennai
Super Kings, set up a big second win for the hosts. His 100 not out off 56 balls featured
SCOREBOARD
Chennai Super Kings innings
(20 overs maximum)
DR Smith run out (Boult) 27
BB McCullum not out 100
SK Raina run out (Rahul) 14
MS Dhoni*† c Warner b Boult 53
RA Jadeja run out (Boult) 0
DJ Bravo not out 0
Extras: (lb 7, w 4, nb 4) 15
Total: (4 wickets) 209
Did not bat: F du Plessis, R Ashwin, MM Sharma, IC Pandey, A Nehra
Fall of wickets: 1-75, 2-135, 3-198, 4-198. Sunrisers Hyderabad
Bowling: B Kumar 4-0 -310, TA Boult 4-0 -34 -1 -8.50, I Sharma 3-0 -46-0, KV Sharma 4-0-51-0, RS Bopara 4-0-29-0, Parvez Rasool 1 -0-11-0
Sunrisers Hyderabad
innings (target: 210 runs from 20 overs)
DA Warner*c Smith b Pandey 53
S Dhawan c Jadeja b Sharma 26
KL Rahul b Sharma 5
NV Ojha† c Sharma b Ashwin 15 RS Bopara b Bravo 22
KS Williamson not out 26 KV Sharma c Raina b Bravo 4 Parvez Rasool not out 2
Extras(lb 7, w 4) 11
Total (6 wickets) 164
Did not bat: B Kumar, I Sharma, TA Boult Fall of wickets: 1-30, 2-46, 3-91, 4-114, 5-136, 6-150. Chennai Super Kings Bowling: A Nehra 4-0-31-0, MM Sharma 4-0-36-2, IC Pandey 3-0-26-1, R Ashwin 4-0-22-1, DJ Bravo 4-025-2, RA Jadeja 1-0-17-0.
hits into the deserted disputed stands of MA Chidambram Stadium, two ramps for sixes over the keeper’s head, and scarcely believable reversepull to take him to 99 after IPL debutant
Trent Boult saw he had shaped up for the ramp and bowled a slower bouncer. McCullum was helped along by a domineering 53 off 29 from MS Dhoni, who was more at home coming in at 135 for 2.
Even through David Warner scored a fifty, Sunrisers Hyderabad never really got going against the Super Kings bowlers, who used the variable bounce to their advantage showing up a pretty insipid bowling effort from the visitors. Then again when McCullum is going hard at you, it is not easy to stick to your plans. He drove for four the second
IPL
2015… Gayle's 96 guides wobbly RCB to win over defending champs
Royal Challengers Bangalore kept losing wickets at one end. Chris Gayle kept hitting fours and sixes at the other. Even as Royal Challengers threatened to implode at 133 for 6 in a chase of 178, Gayle turned down a few singles and hit a few more sixes. Four short of a hundred, and with seven needed for victory, the man who prefers not to run ran himself out scrambling and diving for a rare second.
Royal Challengers still got home with an over to spare, such had been the impact of Gayle’s seven fours and seven sixes in his 96 off 56.
Gayle was put down twice; the first was a tough chance for Morne Morkel diving forward at deep square leg with Gayle on 33. The second was a much simpler catch for the same fielder at the same position with Gayle on 63. Yusuf Pathan was the bowler to suffer on both occasions.
Before he dropped the match, Morkel had worked up testing pace and bounce to take out Gayle’s opening partner Virat Kohli on the pull for 13. Morkel and Sunil Narine kept Gayle and Kohli quiet at the start, and the Kolkata Knight Riders spin army started to take toll on a helpful surface. Dinesh Karthik and Mandeep Singh fell trying expansive strokes against Pathan to leave Royal Challengers 56 for 3.
AB de Villiers came in and targeted Knight Riders’ newest mystery spinner KC Cariappa. The South African had already cracked five boundaries in 12 balls and Royal Challengers appeared to be back in the game when he walked past a flatter one from Cariappa. The askingrate was almost 12 when Shakib Al Hasan’s flight
ball he faced, and his intent meant the Sunrisers bowlers forgot about using the new ball and the bounce. They were forced to bowl yorkers early in the piece, and with no wickets taken in the first four the others were under pressure too.
Ishant Sharma made a good start, but he bowled four no-balls, which ruined his figures. Two of the free hits went for sixes, one for four, and the fourth for a single. Take the 17 runs off his figures and his three overs for 29 look decent. Boult, chosen ahead of Dale Steyn, was neutralised by the immense pressure the openers put him under. Karn Sharma’s flat legbreaks were now just cannon fodder.
Ravi Bopara, chosen ahead of Eoin Morgan, slowed them down a little with two tight overs that also featured two run-outs. (Cricinfo)
lured Darren Sammy to his fall in the 15th over.
Gayle had gone about his innings in typical fashion till now. He had been troubled by Narine’s offbreaks, he had mishit a few, but he had also swung some deep into the stands. The over after Sammy fell, Gayle pulled and lofted Pathan for successive boundaries. It was the same over in which Morkel was to put Gayle down decisively.
Uncharacteristically, Gayle now started to push for twos. Abbott was run out off the first such attempt. Gayle responded by turning down singles off the next two balls, yorkers from Shakib. Fortyfour needed off 21. Shakib missed the yorker twice in succession. Six, and six more. Gayle was properly cruising now. Narine was pulled and swept for consecutive fours and two runs taken off the third. With seamer Harshal Patel on strike for the last two balls of the over, Gayle pushed him to try and hit at least one for six. Harshal succeeded on the second attempt.
Gayle could have reached his century two balls later off Morkel had Manish Pandey not managed to jump at deep midwicket and throw a flat hit back in. He saw what had happened in the deep and tried to regain the strike but could not beat Pandey’s throw. He had done enough to ensure, though, that Royal Challengers beat the defending champions.
That had looked improbable with the way Royal Challengers had gone in their season opener. Misfields, missed chances and overthrows in a nervy fielding performance had helped Knight Riders gallop to 177 for 6. (Cricinfo)
SCOREBOARD
Kolkata Knight Riders innings (20 overs maximum)
RV Uthappa† c Sammy b Ahmed 35
G Gambhir* c Mandeep Singh b Chahal 58
MK Pandey run out (Kohli) 23
SA Yadav c Mandeep Singh
b Patel 11
YK Pathan c Kohli b Aaron 3
AD Russell not out 41
Shakib Al Hasan run out (†Karthik/Aaron) 0 PP Chawla not out 0
Extras: (b 1, lb 2, w 3) 6
Total: (6 wickets) 177
Did not bat: SP Narine, KC Cariappa, M Morkel
Fall of wickets: 1-81, 2-103, 3-131, 4-131, 5-163, 6-173.
Royal Challengers Bangalore Bowling: SA Abbott 3-036-0, HV Patel 4-0-37-1, VR Aaron 4-0-38-1, AN Ahmed 4-0-28-1, DJG Sammy 1-0-70, YS Chahal 4-0-28-1.
Royal Challengers Bangalore innings (target: 178 runs
from 20 overs)
CH Gayle run out
(Pandey/†Uthappa) 96 V Kohli* c †Uthappa b Morkel 13
KD Karthik† b Pathan 6
Mandeep Singh b Pathan 6
AB de Villiers st †Uthappa b Cariappa 28
DJG Sammy st †Uthappa
b Shakib Al Hasan 7
SA Abbott run out
(Morkel/Shakib Al Hasan) 1 HV Patel not out 9
AN Ahmed not out 5
Extras:(lb 7, w 1) 8
Total :(7 wickets) 179
Did not bat YS Chahal, VR Aaron
Fall of wickets: 1-29, 2-50, 3-56, 4-93, 5-119, 6-133, 7-171. Kolkata Knight Riders Bowling: M Morkel 4-0-35-1, SP Narine 4-0-26-0, KC Cariappa 2-0-28-1, AD Russell 2-0-16-0, YK Pathan 4-0-40-2, PP Chawla 1-0-10-0, Shakib Al Hasan 2-0-17-1.
Flashback! Lifeguard trainer Patrick D’Almada (seated centre) with Director of Sport Neil Kumar, Permanent Secretary in the Sport Ministry Alfred King and graduates of the lifeguard course in February 2013 (Avenash Ramzan file photo)
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Horse racing returns...
The seven-race card, which will gallop off at 13:00h, will be headlined by rivalry among horses in the G3 and Lower category. The horses will compete for a distance of five furlongs or 1000 metres, and the winner is guaranteed $250,000.
Other races on the day’s programme are the I1 and Lower, I3 and Lower, K Class, L1, L2 and L3.
Interested horse owners, jockeys and stables have until Wednesday to register to be part of the programme. Registration can be done by contacting Kiritpaul on telephone number 623-1009.
Patrons will be allowed entry to the venue at a cost $1,000. The day’s activities will be powered by Banks DIH Limited.
Bishoo “happy” to be back...
Speaking to this publication moments after the squad was announced, the experienced Albion and Guyana spinner was ecstatic to once again grab the attention of the selectors.
“I’m very, very happy man. Words can’t explain how I feel,” Bishoo said. “I plan to make the most out of this opportunity that has been given to me. I also want to thank all those who stood alongside me and believed in me during those tough years. It wasn’t easy, but what I can say is that hardwork and dedication will also bring about positive results.”
His recall was based on his brilliant performances in the recently concluded West Indies Cricket Board’s Professional Cricket League Four-day tournament.
Bishoo collected a staggering 61 wickets to finish as the second highest wicket-taker of the League, playing a significant role in Guyana Jaguars securing the title in the inaugural year of the tournament.
In tandem with leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul, Bishoo was outstanding during the latter stages of the tournament, grabbing four six-wicket hauls, including an amazing 40 wickets in the final six rounds.
He would no doubt look to continue in the same vein during the threeTest series against the Englishmen and boost the wickets tally, which currently reads 40 wickets at 39.55 with a career-best of 5-90.
“This is the best FirstClass season I’ve ever had. It’s right up there with all my successes and I’m very thankful,” Bishoo said upon the Guyana Jaguars
arrival back home last month.
The road to being recalled proved a tough one for the hardworking cricketer, who after being sidelined by the West Indies selectors in 2012, was overlooked by the Guyana selectors during the FirstClass season the following year. He returned however, in the final round to claim a 15-wicket match haul, including a career-best 9-78. That performance brought the Bishoo back in the fray and since then he hasn’t looked back.
“At the end of the day, it’s cricket and you just can’t give up. I just try to stay as strong as possible and keep working on my game,” Bishoo, who has picked up 275 FirstClass wickets from 63 games, said. “I’m very satisfied with my performance. I think Gunnaz [Veerasammy Permaul] bowled well in the tournament and in partnership I think we really bowled well. I think we really enjoy bowling together.”
Bishoo’s 61 wickets in the Four-day competition came at an exemplary average of 17.06 with a best of 6-74 in the final round against the Windward Islands Volcanoes in Dominica.
He was second to compatriot Permaul, who captured 67 wickets.
The West Indies squad reads: Denesh Ramdin (capt), Kraigg Brathwaite (vice-capt), Sulieman Benn, Devendra Bishoo, Jermaine Blackwood, Carlos Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Devon Smith and Jerome Taylor.
RenTAlS
Amernauth Kiritpaul
BCB expresses delight over Bishoo’s recall
– disappointed over Permaul snub
By Rajiv Bisnauth
The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has reacted with total elation and satisfaction at the recalled of legspinner Devendra Bishoo, who
makes a comeback into the West Indies side after three years.
Bishoo was named in a West Indies 14-man squad for the first Test against England, starting on Monday at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.
President of the BCB, Anil Beharry, in an invited comment on Saturday is
of the view that Bishoo’s recalled represents the rapid development and high standard of cricket in the
Ancient County.
Beharry went on to say that it was a joy to see that the hard work of the board was getting the desired results.
Beharry also indicated that Bishoo was rewarded for all the hours spent working on his game and called on him to take full advantage of his opportunity.
“It was just a matter of time for him to earn that recall, Bishoo over the years has been working tremendously hard on his game,
and that hard work has now paid off,” the BCB President stated.
Beharry further pointed out that Bishoo’s achievements will inspires the BCB administrators to work even harder.
On the other hand, the BCB says it is shocked and disappointed over the nonselection of left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul.
The BCB, however, called on Permaul to continue his rapid progress.
Bishoo, 29, last played a Test match against Australia in April 2012. He has taken 40 wickets in 11 games at an average of 39.55.
But his recalled to the regional setup was based on his recent first-class form. Bishoo enjoyed his best first-class season when he took 61 wickets to help lead the Guyana Jaguars to the crown in the recently concluded WICB Professional Cricket League four-day tournament.
Hard work paid off Meanwhile, Bishoo has credited hard work and changes to his bowling ac-
tion for his recent success.
“Over the years I was struggling a little bit and but I started feeling more confident. I was feeling good. I was working hard. At the end of the day hard
work always pays off,” said Bishoo on Friday.
“I made one or two adjustments with my bowling action and stuff like that. I am more comfortable now. Everything is going well and I am so happy. I think I am smarter when it comes to bowling and I am pretty confident in whatever I am doing.
Bishoo made his debut for the West Indies in 2011 and was that year named the International Crickt Council‘s (ICC) Emerging Cricketer of the Year.
“I’m very happy to be back in the West Indies camp,” he said.
“I was out of the team but I knew I was good enough to make my way back into the team. I made some changes to my action and now I would say I’m bowling the best I have ever bowled.”
Further the West Indies have cut six names from their first training camp under new coach Phil Simmons, who began work last week.
Sheldon Cottrell, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Leon Johnson and Veerasammy Permaul have all been stood down for the opening game of the three-match series.
But uncapped duo, 21-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in a 14-man squad.
The second Test will be played in St George’s, Grenada from April 21 while the final Test is scheduled to start on May 1 in Bridgetown, Barbados.
West Indies squad for first Test: Denesh Ramdin (capt/wk), Kraigg Brathwaite, Sulieman Benn, Devendra Bishoo, Jermaine Blackwood, Carlos Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Devon Smith, Jerome Taylor.
Raffik and Sons Construction Services cricket tournament produces exciting action
The 2015 Raffik and Sons Construction Services Second Division 20 Over Cricket
Competition for teams in Central/Lower Corentyne continued recently with four matches at various grounds across Berbice.
Summarised scores from the matches played as follow:
At Albion Primary School Ground, Courtland All Stars beat Toopoo Rising Stars by nine wickets. Toopoo Rising Stars were bowled out for 83 in 13 overs, with Norman Mangar 30. Eon Gibson took 4-14 and Keon Sinclair 4-18. Courtland All Stars in reply reached 84-1 in 10 overs, with Keon Sinclair hit an unbeaten 48.
At Bush Lot Farm, Kennard’s Memorial beat Sand Reef by 26 runs. Kennard’s Memorial made 170-6 in 20 overs. Mankarran Singh 50, Ravi Bassoo 36 and former Berbice Under-19 player, Karamchand Ramnarine 20 not out. Shivnarine Sahid took 2-32 and Imran Naserbage 2-34. Sand Reef in replay reached 144-6 in 20 overs, with Shivnarine Sahid 45, Imran Naserbage 36 and Bashir Khan 31. Chunnilall Mankarran took 2-19 and Mankarran Singh
2-47. At Kilcoy Long Dam, Fyrish Road beat Fyrish Strikers by 36 runs. Fyrish Road 153-7 in 20 overs, with William Dass 23, Rafeek Kassim 22, Shameem Ahmad, Dickwan Campbell and Ritesh Ramoutar 21 each. Fyrish Strikers in reply were bowled out for 117 in 16.2 overs, with Yadram Barran 34. William Dass took 4-15, Hassan Hussain 2-18 and Saud Ahmed 2-23. At Port Mourant, the host beat Mibicuri Strikers by nine wickets. The visitors made 81 in 19.4 overs, with Lekraj Paltu 20. Devendra Thakurdeen took 3-4. Port Mourant in reply reached 82-1 in 9.1 overs, with Parmanand Narine and Darmesh Seenarine hit 33 and 28 not out respectively.
Horse racing returns to Anjue and Hamlet
After a lengthy hiatus, competitive horse racing will return to the refurbished Anjue and Hamlet race course at Branch Road, Mahaicony, on Sunday April 19 with a grand one-day event.
The track was inactive for about five years, owing to a plethora of reasons, but according to head of the facility, Amernauth Kiritpaul, it has been upgraded significantly to host the upcoming event.
Kiritpaul told this pub-
lication on Saturday that a Gymkhana was held at the facility in November 2013, but this would be the first competitive horse race at the venue for quite some time.
“And we’re hoping that it would be an exciting day for everyone, including the jockeys and the spectators. I can assure you that the track is in excellent condition and turfites can expect a thrilling day of horse racing,” Kiritpaul said.
Parmanand Narine
BCB President Anil Beharry
Devenrda Bishoo
Veerasammy Permaul
Top performers of the horse racing clan will enliven the Anjue and Hamlet track on April 19
Bishoo “happy” to be back in contention
By AvenAsh RAmzAn
Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo is brimming with confidence following his inclusion in
the West Indies 13-man squad for the first Test against England, starting on Monday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.
The 29-year-old, who played the last of his 11 Test matches back in April 2012, was part of the preliminary 20-man training squad assembled
by the Clive Lloyd-led Selection Panel, and was on Saturday named as one of two spinners in the final squad.
By RAjiv BisnAuth
Organisers of the Bush Lot United Turf Club have decided to reschedule their April 26 oneday horse race meet in order to facilitate the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) request to have their race meet on the same date.
Coordinator and Club
Treasurer Lakeram Sukhdeo told Guyana Times Sport on Saturday that the club willingly agreed to the request, and have decided to reschedule the club’s race meet for July 26.
The PPP/C one-day event will be stage at the Port Mourant Turf Club, according to chief coordinator Dennis DeRoop. DeRoop indicated on Saturday that the organisers have put together an impressive eight-race programme with over $7 million up for grabs.
The feature race of the day is for animals classified A and Lower over a distance of 1700 metres for $1.2 million and the President’s Cup.
Other events billed for the day are the E1 and Lower race, which will run over 1300 metres. Other 1300 metres races are for animals G1 and Lower, H1 and Lower and Three-year-
old West Indies median bred.
There are two 1200 metres races and these are for animals classified J1 and Lower and Three-year-old Guyana bred and J3 and Lower.
The Three-year-old West Indies bred animals will run over a distance of 1400 metres, while K Class non winners will run over 1000 metres. Registration closes on April 20, and according to DeRoop no late entries will be accepted.
The race is being conducted under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) and those rules would be rigidly enforced.
Horses not properly registered will not be allowed to participate in the day’s proceedings.
Admission to the venue is $1500 for adults and children under the age of ten will be admitted free.
Parking cost $300 while programme will be free.
For more information and entry details interesting persons can contact Chattergoon Ramnauth on 337- 5311 / 697-1979, Kris Jagdeo on numbers 624-6123/ 322-0369, Fazal Habibulla on Telephone No 232-0232 or 6577010, Dennis DeRoop on 609-9143.
Flashback! Devendra Bishoo receiving his Test cap from Manager Richie Richardson back in May 2011 at Providence
