Thousands attended the Indian Arrival Committee’s final Hamara Concert held at the Albion Sports Complex on Tuesday to coincide with Arrival Day (Nafeeza Yahya photo)
wednesday, may 6, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
wednesday, may 6, 2015 |
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic from Wednesday, May 6 – 05:00h-06:30h and Thursday, May 7 – 05:00h-06:30h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, May 6 – 05:25h-06:55h and Thursday, May 7 – 06:05h-07;35h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on:
Wednesday, May 6 – 05:00h and 16:00h Thursday, May 7 - 05:00h and 16:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Heavy rain showers can be expected in the morning, with light rain showers expected in the afternoon. Thundery showers conditions can be expected in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North easterly between4.91 metres and 6.25 metres per second.
High Tide: 05:39h and 18:06h reaching maximum heights of 2.76 metres and 2.63 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 11:39h and 23:53h reaching minimum heights of 0.44 metre and 0.62 metre respectively.
APNU’s military faction
... a bunch of “oath breakers” – Dr Luncheon
Secretary to the Defence Board and Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon continued his criticism of the militarised Opposition led by retired Army Brigadier David Granger, saying that some of the same officers who violated their oaths under the Forbes Burnham regime are now presenting themselves as guardians of Guyana’s democracy.
“What hypocrisy”, Dr Luncheon, who is also Cabinet Secretary, stated, as he insisted that he continued to be alarmed over what he said seemed to be the position taken by Granger that the Forbes Burnham regime had failed because it had too little military and not necessarily democracy.
However, Dr Luncheon said, this is not entirely true, arguing that the former President of Guyana had used the military but that he had passed on his instructions via subordinate civilians of the People’s National Congress (PNC) regime. “Granger obviously has reasoned that since Burnham’s failure was caused not by too little democracy, but by too little military has opted for the simple solution – more military,” Dr Luncheon underscored.
The HPS pointed out that since his success with this militarised initiative in 2011, Granger has become more entrenched, citing that military-trained personnel has been running the Opposition – A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) –show.
Dr Luncheon went on to highlight that another big issue is the general public, whose memory of the military he said is not one of an unblemished institution but one of a Burnhamite People’s National Congress (PNC) tool that stole bal-
lot boxes, rigged elections and destroyed democracy in Guyana. “Worse yet, the actual, the very same soldiers who violated their oath as officers and the Constitution of Guyana are now the leaders of the Opposition and unapologetically laying claim to governing Guyana in
Kwayana included too the former Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Norman McLean, who, along with the former head of the Guyana Police Force, Laurie Lewis, were said to be frequent visitors to the annual event. However, they were not the
2015,” the HPS mentioned. Only recently Co-founder of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Eusi Kwayana during his testimony at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry had revealed that the security top brass of the 1980s made a yearly pilgrimage to the PNC Headquarters, where they swore allegiance to the party and its leader. Kwayana told the Inquiry that all the security forces had access to surveillance intelligence. He said while President Burnham had become Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces in October of 1980, he had before served as Defence Minister. He said what was notable at the time was the pledge made to the Government of the day. “What was remarkable was that the head of the Army will turn up at the People’s National Congress and swear allegiance to the leader. At that time it was Mr Clarence Price, but it had become an annual feature.”
only organisational heads pledging their service. He spoke of leaders of the Guyana National Service and the People’s Militia as also being involved in the yearly routine.
Very critical
In recent times, Dr Luncheon has been very critical of the increased presence of the military within the Opposition alliance, especially with former GDF Chief-of-Staff Rear Admiral Gary Best endorsing the APNU/AFC. Best, who served as the Army’s Chiefof-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 succeeded, as Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Edward Collins who himself was part of the PNC/APNU protests in 2011.
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 have 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 Relations 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 country to mobilise the old PNC base.
Dr Luncheon had earlier expressed Cabinet’s concern about the influx and injection of military officers into the country to support the Opposition party. Dr Luncheon had argued that the conspicuous presence of retired army officers in APNU also symbolised the worst mistake the coalition’s leader, David Granger, has made in his life. He called the Opposition a “militarypolitical alliance”, while giving the media an account of his experience in 1992 and his role in interacting with the Army, which served under the stewardship of the 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’”.
Secretary to the Defence Board and Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
There is a worrying trend developing in our society which is seeing a lack of tolerance and respect being displayed by Guyanese towards each other in the lead up to this year’s General and Regional elections.
One would never expect that so-called mature individuals are engaged in such misdemeanor. No wonder some of our children turn out to be what they are today.
This lack of tolerance and respect is dangerous and has reached alarming levels where there is need for citizens here to take stock of themselves, cool out and reflect on their attitudes, while showing respect for the views and opinions of others.
There is also a need for political parties to understand the impact that their statements have on the campaign trail regarding inciting violence, stirring racial and ethnic divisions and promoting disunity among Guyanese as a people.
Remaining united Objective commentaries and polling
They too must condemn in the strongest possible terms all acts of aggression, non-tolerance of different political views, hooliganism and divisiveness in our society as life must continue after May 11, whatever the result.
But instead there is silence emanating from the key political actors in the opposition political coalition which includes the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNUAFC).
Mr David Granger and his running mate Mr Moses Nagamootoo have turned a blind eye to the almost objectionable and lawless behaviour of some of their activists and supporters.
The local media has been dominated by reports and instances where supporters of the ruling Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) have been beaten, stoned, verbally assaulted and bullied for attending public political meetings and endorsing that party by known and unknown individuals.
These gentlemen have allowed their actors on social media, more particularly, Facebook, to attack any Guyanese citizen who appear to be supporting the re-election of the Donald Ramotar Administration for a second term.
While the Opposition supporters are allowed to freely express themselves, those who are rallying behind the PPP/C are the victims of cyber bullying and all sorts of threats, in particular while campaigning for their party.
That aside, the populace is growing impatient and is eagerly awaiting the end of this period in Guyana’s history. They are no longer enjoying the debates or the discourse that is taking place about the country’s future because the tension is rising and the lack of tolerance being displayed by specific groups of Guyanese is also very evident at home and abroad.
This is dangerous in itself as it could see some Guyanese rejecting the elections results when they are announced by the Guyana Elections Commission after Monday’s polls. The intolerance could also lead to a situation where Guyanese after elections day are the targets of varying forms of abuse and political profiling, leading to street violence.
But the greater onus is on all Guyanese to reject every temptation to physically and verbally attack each other because of their political views. It ought to have no place in human life, let alone politics.
Guyanese must end this slander campaign and war on social media which has very strong racially undertones and is promoting division as opposed to unity. It is time for Guyanese to demonstrate their commitment to our motto: “One people, one nation, one destiny”.
They must demonstrate their maturity and growth by avoiding conversations and debates which can in themselves, because of their tones, undermine the concept of unity, despite much talk about wanting togetherness.
Where possible, the discourse must be based on mutual respect, understanding and the desire to move Guyana forward and build our country. Debates over the next few days must not only be filled with passion but patriotism and nationalistic sentiments.
As Guyanese, we must recognize that regardless of which Government wins this year’s elections, we must put our backs to the wheels and work hard to build this country of ours.
Dear Editor, Ronald Bulkan asked what is Vishnu Bisram, Ravi Dev (and others) “driven by” in another section of the media. My response was not published.
I am driven by objective commentaries and polling. Bulkan is behaving like a Goebbels and a McCarthyite tarnishing honorable peoples’ reputation for being non-partisan, objective, and neutral. How come Bulkan has not called out David Hinds, an academic, or several other writers and reporters in the media for taking the opposition side?
I first met Bulkan and his brother (forgot his name), Vic Puran, Winston Murray, and a number of PNCites at the wedding of CN Sharma’s son some 12 years ago. President Jagdeo came over and interacted with Bulkan and Puran challenging them to a debate. Bulkan offered to drop me off to my hotel but Puran did the honors since he was going my way.
Bulkan and the others complimented me for my writings. The record would show that all of my writings (hundreds of articles) were/are objective and nonpartisan. If any of my writings has non-factual information, I will gladly make a correction if Bulkan can bring it to my attention.
May I remind Bulkan that I am a pollster (psephologist), journalist, academic, analysist, and educator. My professional responsibilities do not give me the freedom to be a Freddie Kissoon – to delve into the gutter and make irresponsible statements.
I cannot be anything else but objective, fair and
balanced. I conduct polls and whatever findings are obtained in the field studies are reported; that does not make me a government or opposition supporter if the findings favor it.
The current findings show a close election. That does not make an opposition supporter. I just conducted a poll in Trinidad with the findings showing an opposition PNM victory. Does that make me an opposition supporter?
The problem with Guyanese is if you don’t support their side, then you are with the other side. It is a McCarthyite or a George Bush type position; if you are not with us, you are against us. For Bulkan, one cannot be neutral or objective or non-partisan. I must take his side.
For being an objective analyst and commentator, I get blows from both sides. Bulkan and his opposition comrades attack me for my objectivity. No matter what position I take, I get double blows. I have looked at all the leading candidates and campaigners.
And I can say, from what people have commented in private to me, that the “most Presidential” of all the speakers is Moses Nagamootoo – appearance, manners, oratory, clothing, speech delivery, intelligence, etc.
But Nagamootoo, like others, made major blunders and errors. And people are disappointed in some of his comments as they are coming from several of the others. An objective commentator must call out both sides and I consistently do so. I have never campaigned for or served as an advocate for either
side. And that is why both sides dislike me.
If I had supported one side, I would have gotten blows only from one side. But that is the nature of politics in Third World societies which is quite different from politics in first world societies. I remember working for Greg Meeks when he first ran for Congress. He asked whether I thought he would win. And he qualified his question, tell me frankly.
And if you think I can’t win, what do you think I need to do to win. I never heard similar language from a Guyanese politician. They don’t ask if they will win or what they must do to win. They tell you they will win. And then they ask: “I will win! Right?” “Yes boss,” is the response.
What else can you say?
That is how Bulkan appears to be behaving.If you tell a Guyanese politician, he can’t win, you are fired immediately. The politician will never ask what can be done to retrieve a situation or what he needs to do to win.
I recently worked for a Trinidad politician who used sharp language: “I dont want to hear I am winning. Tell me what to do to make sure I win”. I offered advice and he won big when others thought he would lose.
I am a trained political scientist who did doctoral studies in government. I worked with governments throughout the Caribbean and Asia and I helped several to win; some also lost and some regretted for not taking my advice after they lost.
I understand Guyana’s politics better than most.
I am on the ground than most, if not all, politicians. I know the peoples’ grips. I know how they will vote. I was never consulted by any of the current Guyana parties or politicians for assistance in winning the election. I am not on anyone’s payroll. So I can comment freely without having to worry about the outcome.
Let me assure Bulkan and the rest of the nation I have no hidden agenda in my commentaries and polling (done for free for public consumption). He is right –my agenda is “open and naked as a new born”.
It is for free and fair elections, an election without violence (and so far it has not been that way with the violence coming from one side), no intimidation on election day, no stuffing of ballot boxes, accurate counting and reporting of the ballots, acceptance of the outcome of the elections, whichever side wins should be allowed to govern (although I prefer a government in which all sides are participants; Bulkan’s party is reported to be opposed to that position). And my free polling has no agenda – it is to help institutionalize the concept of opinion surveys so that government can begin to consider peoples’ views before it embarks on policymaking. Surely Bulkan can’t be opposed to such a democratic concept or see it as partisan? In spite of what Bulkan thinks of me, I wish him and his party well as I do of all the parties. I pray for peace and a democratic outcome, no cheating, no fraud.
Vishnu Bisram
Delicious sweetmeats and other delicacies were on sale as the Indian Commemoration Trust hosted its annual Pushpanjali at the Monument Gardens, Church and Camp Streets on Tuesday with many festivities as they celebrated the 177th anniversary of Indian Arrival to Guyana
All of our ethnic pride and honour are guaranteed by the UN Human Rights Charter
Dear Editor,
It seems a great comfort and ease for Ms Nadia Sagar that she stands only with her citizenship to define her. It is not that most Indians in Guyana could not do the same if we tried but that we do not wish to. And why should we?
We celebrate Amerindian Heritage Month. Africans celebrate their culture and heritage as proud Africans during Black History Month and on Emancipation Day. And as I write this on May 5, it is for me and most Indians a proud day of commemoration, Indian Arrival Day.
All of our ethnic pride and honour are guaranteed by the UN Human Rights Charter and by the Guyana Constitution. Africans and Amerindians have cultural and ethnic groups and leadership but, unlike Indian groups and leaders, they are never required to account for themselves vis a vis creating division and disunity.
But this thing of being Indian rankles with Guyanese like Ms Sagar who are so proud to have answered the call of
self denial that they wish us all to do the same. Indian self denial does appear to be the solution to all of Guyana’s ills.
It is always Indians who are asked to make the sacrifice and those who have done so look down at us primal beings who, like every Amerindian and African, claim ethnic pride and honour.
No one of the two sides in the elections campaign is giving the electorate a clear moral choice. In the absence of this, we will more than likely continue with a racial voting pattern.
Elections in Guyana have always been about race. Africans vote for the PNC no matter what and no one has a problem with that. Even the 1992 en bloc vote by Africans for the PNC after the dark days of the PNC dictatorship is now justified.
And even within this context, the idea that Indians would vote for the PPP/C no matter what creates so much condemnation and censure.
Martin Carter is quite correct to state that there is no separate salvation for us since
we share a country. However, he never advocated, nor could anyone else, that a united Guyanese people should be achieved through self denial and self hatred on the part of Indians.
The status quo of the Caribbean is African and Indians are a minority. Is there such racism within the Caribbean region and context that demands that Indians erase or negate all ethnic, cultural and historical ties in order to belong?
Citizenships can change. I can be Guyanese, or American or Canadian, etc, if I cared to be. But how does one deny or change one’s essential being?
I would never negate my Indian self. It is my DNA. It is my history, my legacy, my traditions, my culture. It is my spiritual home.
If I ever denied any of it, that would be the real dishonor. And if anyone asked that of me they would be trampling on my guaranteed human, spiritual and constitutional rights.
Ryhaan Shah
APNU/AFC: Condemn your supporters for their vandalism
Dear Editor,
The political code of conduct was inked by the political parties of Guyana on April 29 aiming at the manner in which the parties will conduct themselves in a professional manner throughout their campaigning.
A few hours after the PPP/C held one of its public meetings in East Ruimveldt for the purpose of reaching out and airing plans for the future developments of Guyana if were to be placed in office again.
PPP/C was interrupted by a band of the political Opposition supporters known as APNU+AFC. Flags for the
PPP/C were burned, missiles were thrown and some were even hurled at speakers which included Dr Roger Luncheon.
The behaviour of the Opposition by going and disrupting PPP/C meetings is by far an act of disrespect to the Government and its supporters. The most annoying part of it all is that supporters are encouraging children to be a part of all the vandalism; children do what they see their parents are doing. Teach our children the right thing, set proper examples for them to follow and by all means allow our children to decide on their own. Violence is not the answer
never was and never will be.
Billboards were destroyed, posters were ripped from walls and light posts and the home of a PPP/C supporter in Linden had stones hurled at it. Why sign a code of conduct if there are no intentions of carrying out your duties respectfully and professionally?
David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo, I urge you to condemn this act of your supporters.
If you fail to do so then your supporters will carry on their violence and vandalism feeling they have your full support behind their actions.
Teri Phang
Kissoon has a fixation on Dev and Aksharananda
Dear Editor,
I wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms the vicious ad hominem attacks leveled against Swami Aksharananda by Frederick Kissoon in the Stabroek News.
It makes me wonder if Stabroek News has abandoned its vetting process for a more laissez faire one for what now appears in its letters column.
Aksharananda who lives in Guyana (he does not live in the diaspora), has a Ph D and he is regarded as an eminent Hindu scholar Hinduism who has built a remarkable educational institution in West Coast Demerara, the Saraswati Vidya Niketan, with much to show for its successes.
Swami Aksharananda simply made two observations in his letter, which are clear as the light of day, namely that the “deculturalized and de-eth-
nicized Indians” are colluding with Africans in their attacks against Indians who support the PPP/C, and that electoral politics in Guyana have been historically raced-based.
There is a multitude of evidence to support each premise – one simple has to google the information or follow the comments found on the Guyana blogs.
What I find particularly egregious about Mr Kissoon is the constant daily vitriol he levels against those who dare pen anything positive about Indians.
Perhaps he has a guilty complex about being one of those “deculturalized and deethnicized Indians” who, in the past, has written, on several occasions, about being ashamed of being “East Indian”.
Kissoon should direct his intellectual energy towards
Fraudulent Freddie, no institution awards degree in Guyanese History
Dear Editor, Freddie Kissoon claims he has “two degrees in Guyanese History”, a missive in two other papers. My response was not published. That claim of Freddie's cannot be correct. Writers (columnists included) need to be accurate in their claims and editors must execute due diligence for accuracy when reviewing claims of writers.
I checked on the accuracy of Kissoon’s claims of having “two degrees in Guyanese History”. No institution in the world has a degree in Guyanese History. Kissoon studied at UG, McMaster, and the University of Toronto. None of these universities offer a degree in Guyanese History. UG offers a undergrad BA in History and recently started offering a MA in History. It is not Guyanese History. McMaster and University of Toronto offer BA, MA and PhD in History, not Guyanese History. Incidentally, I studied for two degrees in History, including a doctorate, but not “Guyanese History” because where I studied there is no discipline called “Guyanese History”.
Kissoon’s study at University of Toronto was discontinued for reasons I prefer not to divulge to the public as it is a private matter pertaining to disciplining of students who violate the school’s code of conduct.
It is better for Kissoon to explain to readers why his studies were suddenly terminated for his doctorate. However, I wish to note that when Kissoon was a columnist with SN during the late 1980s and into the 1990s, he claimed to have a doctorate and he was referred to as “doctor” by the public and never discouraged (or corrected) people from so addressing him. He was subsequently “outed” by staff at UG and use of the title “Dr”
was discontinued in SN. My recollection was his column with SN was also discontinued shortly thereafter.
And he never forgave Messrs. Miles Fitzpatrick and David DeCaires for their action, constantly reminding readers in numerous columns in KN.
He also never forgave staff for “outing” him that led to a lower salary as a lecturer. Is not fraud for calling oneself a doctor or having others refer to you as a doctor when one is not?
Since Kissoon could not have two degrees in Guyanese History, it is understandable why “he does not see Guyana’s History the way real historians see it”, as he penned. His claim is that of a “self-appointed historian” on Guyana for no institution gives such a degree. A degree (BA, MA, PhD) is given in History, not on Guyana’s History.
Maybe Kissoon majored in Guyanese History when he was at UG within the discipline of History.
But the syllabus would show that UG never offered more than three courses in Guyanese History – that could hardly make one a specialist in or a recipient of a degree in Guyanese History and McMaster (or Univ of Toronto) does not offer any course on Guyanese History.
At universities in Canada and also in the US, one obtains a bachelors degree in History or any subject by completing course work (between ten and 12 in the US – which is how I obtained a BSc in Bio-Chemistry) and a host of other multi-disciplinary courses. For the Masters, there is course work (ten courses in US) and a long paper (plus exam) and or a thesis as I did for several MAs.
The MA paper can be on Guyana (and the public does not know if Kissoon wrote on Guyana) – but the degree is not awarded in Guyanese
History. I did not come across a thesis from Kissoon on any issue pertaining to Guyanese History. And he never claims to have written one or made reference to one. Thus, he could have done in depth study on Guyanese History. Kissoon claimed (in KN columns) he wrote a monograph on Jagdeo’s Presidency but he refused to make it public when challenged.
Since Kissoon does not have a degree in Guyanese History, is Kissoon then not “a self-appointed historian on Guyanese History” – a derogatory description he conferred on Swami Aksharnanda and others?
Kissoon claimed in KN that he studied “Philosophy” when he was at McMaster and the University of Toronto. He is now contradictory. Which one did he major in? Philosophy or History? Or does he have graduate degrees in both?
The public needs to be told that Swami Aksharnanda studied at University of Wisconsin-Madison (among the top universities in America) and he also taught there as a Professor.
Swami is the holder of a doctorate and he does not need to claim to be a historian even though he would have studied Guyanese History as I did. Swami is an outstanding academic. His style of writing is intellectually oriented. Swami is not a muckraker writer; he does not engage in scandals or attack people. He is a first class writer.
One needs only look at Kissoon’s writing style and one can decipher a lack of academic quality. Academics don’t write in the style of Kissoon. Kissoon needs to stop misleading the public about unverifiable assertions and claims.
Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
seeking political solutions that would move us closer to a multiracial society and promote “unity in diversity”, a concept once championed by the AFC.
His “slash and burn” journalism in his columns in another daily is reflective of a person with a totalitarian mind bent on heaping scorn on those with whom he disagrees as if he is the only one that possesses ”the truth”.
The irony about it all is that Kissoon must surely sense that he has lost tremendous respect among the majority of Indians in Guyana. .
Finally, I remember when Ravi Dev first entered the Guyanese political scene in the late 1980s, Kissoon, declared dubbed him one of Guyana’s most intelligent politicians. Why the fixation on Mr Dev?
Vishnu Mahabir
wednesday, may 6, 2015| guyanatimesgy.com
Is it close?
By LT WiLLicom
With just about one week to go before an election, forced upon the population by the Opposition forces, people are asking me, “How it looking? Well, if the size of the crowd that gathered at PPP/C’s Stewartville rally recently is anything to go by, it’s PPP/C by a landslide.
But I am reminded that elections are won on the day. In every election that I have followed the questioning becomes more intense the closer one gets to the election date. The party faithful looking for some hope, some assurance, wanting so desperately to be reassured.
Short of a divine sign, they want your confirmation. They dismiss the polls that say their party is behind, and embrace those that give them a lead. It’s the nature of things.
A friend of mine in Trinidad never calls it wrong .His response is always: “It’s close.” The late Lloyd Best would say, “You have to do the numbers.”
Well, if you ask me now, I am playing it safe. It’s close!!
An analysis tells me that APNU smelling blood. They feel that they have been out too long. Their supporters want to see them in office. Their actions tell me that they are on the verge of desperation.
They are creating support bases which don’t exist, forming an imaginary alliance with the Muslim
community in Region Three, and even promising AFC to give more powers to the Prime Minister. They can’t win alone and know it, so the AFC is their ticket to Government even if it means gambling with the Prime Ministership.
Well, what does that have to do with deciding a winner you may ask.
Well, the results will be decided by the supporters of the PPP/C and APNU knows that. Their decision to follow Nagamootoo and go with the AFC in 2011 determined the outcome then, and their decision to return to the PPP/C or not will decide the results again.
The PPP/C supporters must assess whether their distrust for APNU is made any less because of an alliance with the AFC. They must also ponder on the actions of Nagamootoo and his AFC, and decide whether his abandonment of the principles he once stood for while in the PPP/C still makes him worthy of their support.
You see, my friends, it would be great if the election was to be decided only on performance. If so, even the most rabid supporter of APNU would call it for the PPP/C.
What makes this election difficult to call is the fact that factors such as loyalty, principle and trust create a dilemma for the social scientist. One can never tell how the population will react to betrayal, dishonesty and disloyalty. Race is not and has never
been a rallying call for the PPP/C, but that does not mean that race is not a factor now.
It’s about support base. And let’s be frank, it is the support base of the PPP/C that is under attack by the AFC. The NACTA polls suggest that the APNU supporters, Africans in the main, are not leaving the party and it is the PPP/C support base, Indians in the main, who are likely to shift.
And to me it goes beyond race. That’s too simple an explanation. It’s also about leadership and who, by their history, style and actions deserve the voters’ trust.
The numbers (a la Lloyd Best) tell me that the PPP/C supporters are the ones in whom the outcome of this election lies. So, if I am to answer the question, “How it looking?” I would say it close, but if the PPP/C supporters are angry enough with the AFC for their betrayal, then the numbers tell me that the PPP/C will continue to govern, but this time with the numbers they need to truly govern.
So until I can have an insight into the thinking of the party faithful, I have taken the middle road, it close and it not so close.
Unscientific, but then again what’s science got to do with it?
It’s all about what a population is willing to accept from its leaders and if and how they are willing to demonstrate it on May 11.
Nabaclis villagers “thankful” for new roads
With elections in the air, the ongoing construction of the Nabaclis main road, on the East Coast of Demerara, has taken some residents of the village by surprise. However, a few residents stated that they hold no illusions to the reasons behind the rehabilitation works.
“All the time this road deh like this and they never fix it but fix other roads that wasn’t as bad twothree other times… and all of a sudden they doing this”. These were the sentiments of resident and Shop Owner, Wayne Benn as he spoke to Guyana Times about the
poor state of the village’s main access road. Benn stated that the road has been in that state for the last 20 years.
Michelle Gordon, a mother of two, shared Benn’s sentiments on the sudden interest in the standard of Nabaclis’ roads, stating that she is quite “thankful” for it.
Gordon said the reconstruction is a “great initiative and a great plan” but said that the relevant authorities “shouldn’t have waited till election” to do so, adding that it sends the wrong message.
A longstanding resident of the community who gave
her name as Corletta (only name given) stated that she has lived in the community all of her 51 years and remembered the road being rehabilitated twice.
Sharon Benn, another resident, said the roads before were in a deplorable state, making her daily travels strenuous since she supports her family through the sales she makes from pushing a cart loaded with snacks and other goodies around the village.
Benn said she complained about the roads before to authorities but nothing was ever done about it, stating that promises were made but never fulfilled until now.
Another resident, however, raised his concern with this publication, stating that the road is not being rehabilitated to the high standard of other roads along the East Coast of Demerara, adding that “he is not pleased so far” with the work that has been done on the Nabaclis main road.
When contacted by this publication earlier this year, Acting Chairman of the Golden Grove/Haslington Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) William Frank said that his office did not have the funds to repair roads, adding that the responsibility was given to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).
However, Region Four Chairman Clement Corlette told Guyana Times that the village’s roads were on a list of roads to be repaired by the Public Works Ministry. This was proven true. However, only a section of the roads in the community was on the list.
This was corroborated by Coordinator of Works at the Ministry, Geoffrey Vaughn, who said earlier in the year that the Nabaclis main road was on the list of roads on the East of Demerara to be repaired.
The Nabaclis main road before the rehabilitation
The Nabaclis main road during the ongoing reconstruction process
Carter Centre warns against fear mongering
...condemns provocative campaign rhetoric
With just six days left before the staging of one of Guyana’s most anticipated General and Regional Elections, the Carter Centre is warning against moves to sow ethnic fears among the Guyanese populace.
On Tuesday, the centre, which has an observer mission here in Guyana, said it is “deeply concerned about the provocative rhetoric in the campaign,” even as it condemned attempts “to sow fear and distrust among Guyana’s ethnic groups.” The centre also warned against attempts to undermine confidence in the country’s electoral process and institutions. The PPP has made several complaints of APNU/AFC provocative acts including incidents of bottle pelting and in one particular incendiary incident an APNU supporter, allegedly the daughter of an APNU MP, urinating on a PPP Flag, waving it aloft and leading youths in a chant of “We gon bun dem out!!”
According to the centre, “it is imperative that political parties remain conscious of their obligations under the Political Party Code of Conduct for these elections and urge their supporters to behave accordingly.” As Election Day approaches, the Carter Centre is encouraging all Guyanese to make their strongest efforts to promote a peaceful and transparent electoral process. “These elections are an important opportunity for Guyanese to strengthen their commitment to one another and further consolidate their democracy.”
Nevertheless, based on assess-
ments conducted thus far, the centre said Guyana’s electoral preparations appear to be on track. “In most parts of the country, electoral preparations appear to be on course, and in some areas, preparations are ahead of schedule. In some more remote areas, there are concerns about the status of logistical preparations.”
Since April, the centre deployed a team of five experts and six mediumterm observers throughout the country. They have conducted observation in all 10 of Guyana’s electoral districts, and held meetings with a wide range of actors, including political parties, the election commission, civil society organisations, and the judiciary. Observers heard many allegations of electoral offenses being committed by supporters of both of the main political parties. These were principally about the destruction of flags, banners, and billboards. However, the team encountered very few formal complaints submitted to Police and to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
Although their observation is ongoing, medium-term observers have reported that the majority of stakeholders in the regions have expressed confidence in GECOM and the electoral process. The medium-term observation team will be joined this week by more than 50 short-term observers from 24 countries. The delegation will be co-led by former US President Jimmy Carter, Ambassador Audrey Glover of the United Kingdom, and former Barbados Minister of Foreign Affairs Billie Miller. They will witness the electoral process, including voting, counting, polling, and tabulation, and release a preliminary statement of key findings on May 13, which will be available at http://www.cartercenter.org.
The Carter Centre’s assessment of the electoral process will be based on Guyana’s Constitution, national legal framework, and its various obligations for democratic elections under public international law, including relevant regional and international agreements. The centre’s mission will be conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation, which provides guidelines for professional and impartial election observation.
Guyana’s response to Venezuela’s threats Harper calls out Granger for “hypocrisy”
...on
Former Director General of the Foreign Affairs Ministry and Prime Ministerial Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Elisabeth Harper has called out Presidential Candidate of the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition, David Granger for his “hypocrisy” on the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy.
On Saturday last, Granger, while appearing on ‘Hard Talk,’ a radio programme, told the host that he was immensely displeased with the manner in which Guyana was handling the ongoing issue with Venezuela. According to him, while he may have supported the Government of Guyana in the past especially from around October, 2013 when a Venezuelan Naval Craft had expelled an unarmed civilian vessel from the country’s waters; he did not believe that the Government was taking a “robust enough” approach to effectively tackle the situation. He noted that the current stance taken by the Government on the ongoing controversy was “weak” although there are options available for the matter to be brought to a conclusion.
However, former Director General Harper, in responding to the comments, said that by Granger declaring his disappointment with the Government’s response to the matter was nothing more than an exploitation of a key national issue for narrow political gain. Harper said it was hypocritical for Granger to make such
statements given the fact that he has constantly reiterated his support for the actions taken by the Government on the issue.
“Mr Granger himself had supported the actions of the Government in relation to those very violations and threats from neighbouring Venezuela. To describe Guyana’s actions as weak when we were able to garner the public support of the Caribbean Community and the Commonwealth can be nothing but dishonest,” the former diplomat said.
Continuing, Harper said that while Granger was fast in pointing out the Government’s failure to capitulate on the other options which were opened to be explored “he has failed to declare what he would have done or would do differently if he were to become the President of this country.” The former Director General said that any Government led by the PPP/C will not play politics with Guyana’s most important asset, that is, its territory, noting that utterances like those of the APNU/AFC Presidential Candidate are in fact, “what make us appear weak because such a stance demonstrates disunity in regard to the protection of our national patrimony when it is unity of purpose and action that is required at all times.”
Only recently, British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn endorsed the actions taken by the Government, echoing sentiments which were earlier expressed by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett that the Good Offices approach has not been as effective as it was intended to be, and should be abandoned. The Good Offices approach was established by the United Nations as a mechanism to assist in resolving Venezuela’s continuous claim to a part of Essequibo.
On March 3, 2015 the Guyana Government announced its intention to opt out of the United Nations Good Offices process—a mechanism anticipated to assist in resolving the renewed claim that Venezuela had made on a portion of the Essequibo Region of Guyana. Rodrigues-Birkett pointed out that Guyana was examining other available options, while at the same time suggesting that Venezuela remained comfortable
with the current process “because it suits their purpose – no movement.”
These “other options” will eventually have to be decided by the UN Secretary General. According to Article 33 of the UN Charter, they include, in addition to “Good Offices,” the resort to mediation, facilitation, dialogue processes, arbitration and judicial settlement. However, all, except a judicial settlement process, have already been tried.
This most recent development in this territorial controversy arose just after the Venezuelan Foreign Minister, at the beginning of March, objected to the exploratory drilling for oil by the American company, ExxonMobil, in a concession granted by Guyana. Venezuela claimed that the area is located in its “territory” despite the fact that the drilling area is deep within Guyana’s maritime economic zone. In response, Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry asked the Venezuelan Government to desist from taking any actions that could only result in hindering the development of Guyana, and relations between the two countries.
In a rebuttal, Venezuela in a communiqué in mid-March, labeled as “unjust and false,” the claims that it was deliberately obstructing Guyana’s development, and pointed to the instances of collaboration and support between the two states as evidence to the contrary.
APNU/AFC Presidential Candidate David Granger
PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper
Former US President Jimmy Carter
APNU/AFC, TIP, NIP to engage UGSS
The People’s National Congress (PNC)- led A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition, The Independent Party (TIP) and the National Independent Party (NIP) are expected to appear on separate forums with students from the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS) to discuss with them their policies and plans for the future of Guyana.
Following unsuccessful efforts to organise Presidential and Prime Ministerial debates between the respective candidates of the two major political parties contesting the upcoming General and Regional Election, the UGSS was forced to resort to this alternative.
The primary reason for the flopping of the debates
is as a result of the unprofessional and rowdy behaviour exhibited by individuals during the pre-elections forum in 2011 which discouraged candidates from participating.
It is because of this reason, the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) has politely declined to participate in another round of disorderly
debates.
The PPP/C, however, was ready and willing to meet head-on with Opposition Leader David Granger for a Private Sector Commission (PSC) organised debate, but Granger opted to boycott the debate, arguably for fear of discussing his policies in a professional environment, away from the unnecessary heckling from his supporters.
Notwithstanding the PPP/C’s reason for not participating, the UGSS in a media release expressed hopes that the party will reconsider its decision to participate.
According to the release, the exercise is being executed in the context of the critical role that young people, including the University students, have to play in electing a government of their choice to manage the
country.
“The UGSS has to play a role in providing students with the opportunity to directly engage representatives of those parties seeking to hold political office,” the release read.
Meanwhile, representing the APNU+AFC coalition is David Granger who will engage a group of students today. NIP Presidential Candidate Saphier Husain and TIP Presidential Candidate Mark Bencshop will then have their opportunity to meet the students on May 8.
Additionally, the UGSS noted that they are still awaiting responses from The United Force (TUF) headed by Marissa Nadir and the United Republican Party (URP) headed by Vishnu Bandhu for a confirmation of their participation in the forum.
Eyew tness Decency...
...or indecency?
The irony's too rich for words…or is it just plain "covering your a55"? The owner of the Muckraking KN announced: "It’s time this country matures and returns to some decency and dignity"!!!
This from a publisher whose motto is "Scandalise!! Scandalise!! Scandalise!!" What happened? Did the Mook suddenly find God? Did he hear a booming voice from the sky??
Hardly. The old scandal monger's just protecting his investment in the PNC-led APNU/AFC. As one of the major contributors to "FUCOP" - the Funding a United Committee for Opposition Presidency - he's petrified his investment's going down the tubes as the signs of a massive PPP/C victory multiply.
What actually triggered his eye-popping, jaw-dropping call for "decency" was a PPP/C ad showing a young female APNU supporter in front of a large crowd of mostly children and youths - standing upright, pulling her panty aside and peeing on a PPP/C flag.
Now this is just the kind of photo the Muckraker plasters across its front page with gusto every day of the week! But you see, Dear Reader, this was a picture that showed APNU in a poor light. It might just cause a few folks - who're "mature and decent" - to recoil in disgust and not to vote for them.
Because this was no lumpen, street girl used to "baring it all...and let it all leak out" when nature calls, but the daughter of an APNU MP. And irony of ironies, a Ministry of Education CHILD WELFARE OFFICER!!
No wonder our children are running out of control when these types of persons are "protecting their welfare"! Now how many times in the past hasn't the Mook published photos of Government officials figuratively "caught with their pants down"? Just to embarrass the Government.
But now that he has an APNU insider caught literally with her panty down, he claims the PPP/C is "depicting" folks of a certain "ethnicity in a derogatory way".
So suddenly rather than political allegiance being cited, the Mook gratuitously brings in "ethnicity". And fears, he says, that other folks sharing the reprobate's ethnicity would get "crazy" because the PPP/C was "inciting people's baser passions".
This Eyewitness thinks any right-thinking member of the "public pisser's" ethnicity would be disgusted just like any folks - and would censure her.
But what the PPP/C didn't publish was the most frightening part of the APNU supporter's public theatre. When she lifted the piss-drenched PPP/C flag aloft and, fist pumping she led the children into chants of, "BUN DEM OUT!!!"
And folks still ask why ethnic voting won't end! Especially the "mature and decent" Glenn Lall.
...and loose cannons
Imagine one of those cannons on the old wooden ships becoming loose while firing its humongous cannonball!! Ducking didn't help, since it could take down the whole ship!
Joey Jagan's seen by some as a "loose cannon". At some point when he wanted to enter politics Joey changed his name to "Cheddi Jagan Jr" - but it never stuck.
His dad had named him "Joseph" - after "Joseph Stalin". He could never shake off that "Joey" - usually said with a rueful smile and a sad shake of the head. Ever since he participated in 1968 trying to burn down George Williams University in Canada as a student, when his dad was shelling out a lot of bucks for his education, folks looked at him a bit askance.
When he finally returned to Guyana in 1993, it was noteworthy that he wasn't encouraged into politics by his parents.
In what some think is a devious PPP plot, he's just entered the party of his godfather (he says) Forbes Burnham!
...and pride
After his brief coming up for air - when he was tasked with trash-talking the PPP/C manifesto - Khemraj Ramjattan had gone underground again. We know Nigel Hughes is hidden because he overshadows Granger. But Ramjattan?? Not a vote of confidence in Nagamootoo!!
TIP Presidential Candidate Mark Bencshop
Dharmic Sabha, IAC at odds over preservation of Indian Culture
Having just celebrated the 177th anniversary of the arrival of East Indians in Guyana, one would ponder about the traditional culture and heritage of that group and its existence in Guyana’s society.
The debate on the preservation of one’s culture in the age of globalisation has been a hot topic and a pressing issue around the world, particularly in the Caribbean.
In Guyana, many are of the perception that western influences are taking a toll on the Indian culture, and causing Indian nationals to drift from their traditions.
In addressing the issue, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and the Indian Arrival Committee appear to be at odds over the preservation of Indian culture.
Indian society is among the oldest in the world. Indian culture in Guyana dates back to the arrival of the Indian Indentured Immigrants then British Guiana, and has since contributed towards the shaping of Guyana’s social landscape.
But with the immensity of western influences on Guyanese culture, many argue that the richness of the Indian heritage in Guyana is fading.
Executive Member of the Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) Neaz Subhan agreed that efforts are being made to preserve the culture but expressed his belief that the impact of globalisation is overshadowing those attempts.
He believes that the essence of the traditional culture is being lost as the world evolves, and expressed his fear that 100 years from now, the culture will be completely distorted, or perhaps, even lost.
As such, he called on all Guyanese, particularly the elders, to engage the younger folk on the importance of keeping the culture alive by passing down what they know, and by encouraging this new generation to do the same.
But, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud said Guyana is far ahead of its Caribbean neighbours in preserving its culture in spite of the influences of the other parts of the world.
She said the Dharmic Sabha is committed to this cause and has embarked on numerous activities aimed at getting the public, young and old, involved in keeping the traditional Indian culture alive.
She explained that the Sabha provides training in music, dancing, language, cookery
tions, various exhibitions, numerous cultural shows, which she explained, are all geared toward preserving Guyanese culture.
She also noted that the recent E-Networks singing competition is another testimony of Guyanese commitment to preserving its Indian heritage.
Persaud elaborated that, at the exhibitions, a lot of work is exhausted into ensuring East Indian’s history in Guyana remains alive by having on dis-
and even yoga- all key aspects of the Indian culture.
In addition, she pointed out that through the various mandirs across the country, youths can become involved in reading scriptures and learning the religious aspect of the vast heritage.
Dr Persaud listed events such as the massive motorcades, grand Phagwah celebra-
play the traditional cooking utensils, houses, food, clothing, among others.
She marveled at the fact that the Indian culture is highly celebrated in Guyana by the young and the old of all religious and ethnical backgrounds. According to her, efforts in preserving the Indian culture in Guyana continue to be successful.
Massy to start distribution of Unilever brands
Massy Trading has been awarded the distributorship of the range of home care and spreads brands manufactured by Unilever, another effort by the company to enhance the services it provides to the Guyanese public. Through this partnership, Massy Trading will now be distributing Breeze, Blueband, Cif, Radiante, Quix, Mistolin, Comfort, I can’t believe it’s not Butter, Flora, ICBINB and Skip. These brands are available country wide.
This new partnership is expected to equip the Massy Group of Companies to serve
its customers with a great array of well-loved and trusted brands.
As the company expands, it has invested in a state-ofthe-art centralised distribution facility which boasts a modern warehouse for dry and chilled products.
The implementation of warehouse management system at that facility will allow for better inventory management, which will enable Massy to improve its supply chain management. Meanwhile, Unilever is a multinational consumer goods company that boasts over 300 brands which are utilised by
consumers worldwide every day.
In celebrating this partnership, Massy will be giving its customers a chance to win over $1 million in cash and prizes with a Breeze Independence Promotion which started on May 4 and ends on June 12.
Persons are expected to submit their names, addresses and telephone numbers along with two 375g or one large Breeze packet or proof of purchase (bill) or Breeze liquid 900g or larger.
Entries can be dropped at any participating store countrywide or at any Courts outlet.
Naga in Parliament on “Child Rearing”
Guyanese man wanted for double murder in US, arrested in Trinidad
A37-year-old Guyanese born United States citizen with immigration status in Canada, and who is wanted in the US on a range of criminal offences including two counts of murder, has been re-arrested by members of Trinidad and Tobago INTERPOL Bureau. Balkumar Singh was first detained on March 27, 2015 for violating Trinidad’s immigration laws, under the
name Shauwn Maharaj. But based on information received by the INTERPOL, the detainee was positively matched as Balkumar Singh who was being sought by US authorities on charges of murder, assault in the first degree, reckless endangerment, two counts of criminal possession of a weapon and tampering with physical evidence.
As a result, a request
was made by the US for the provisional arrest of Singh, which was agreed to by the Attorney General.
A warrant was subsequently issued on April 30, 2015 and handed over to AG Sgt Herman Narace of INTERPOL for execution.
On May 1, 2015, Narace along with PC James Dailey and PC Sham Sinanan took custody of Singh from the Immigration Detention Centre and conveyed him to the Port of Spain CID where the warrant was served. Singh later appeared before a Port of Spain Magistrate, and was remanded into custody until May 28.
Bail was refused. Appearing for the requesting state was Head of the Central Authority Unit, Netram Kowlessar. Singh, who has 14 convictions in Canada, including assaults and weapons charges, is also known by the following aliases: Tevin Persaud, Terry Persaud; Kumar Doodnath; Terry Singh and Sean Maharaj.
One of the dance troupes in Guyana, decked in their Indian costume, just before a performance
Dr Vindhya Persaud
Neaz Subhan
Balkumar Singh on his way to court
wednesday, may 6, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
First-time voters excited about May 11
With just a few days left before the General and regional elections here first time voters have found themselves in a puddle of mixed emotions.
Reports are indicating that some 64,000 persons are eligible to vote for the first time, and political parties have been focusing heavily on securing this section of voters for political gains. Guyana Times spoke with several first time voters who expressed mixed emotions on their ability to vote for the first time. While many of them have no interest in voting, others were clueless as to which of the political parties they will be supporting.
Ashley Singh, a student pursuing a career in business, related that she is not sure if she will be voting.
“From a logical standpoint, whether I go and vote or not, a party will win and we as the public have to continue with our lives,” she said. But subsequently, Singh admitted that she is trapped in a
bubble of mixed emotions, noting that while she is interested in voting, she is not sure which party she will endorse come May 11.
“I would like to go and vote, but as to who my vote goes to, I’m just not so sure, hence my uncertainty about voting,” she further explained.
Alexis (only name given), another first time voter, also signaled her lack of interest in exercising her constitutional right to vote. “It does not interest me. I don’t think
my vote matters, a lot of other people will go and vote…I ain’t able go through all that stress and then I might get beat up for no reason, then I don’t want to deal with the disappointment if my party loose,” she initially stated. But despite her fears, she said voting on May 11 is still up for consideration.
Daryl Chambers and Cindy Kishun also expressed similar sentiments when approached on the matter. Chambers said she wants to distance herself from the political process because she is disgusted by the actions of most politicians.
Despite her views, she acknowledged the importance of a single vote and its impact on the future of the country. Kishun, on the other hand, said while she is completely disappointed in the political parties contesting the upcoming elections, she will be voting, simply to please her parents.
On the flip side of the coin, other first time voters disclosed that they are being pressured to vote for political
parties in which their parents and grandparents have endorsed. Kevol Harlequin, a former Bishop’s High School student, said “I feel like everybody wants me to vote for who they want me to vote for.”
But nonetheless,
Harlequin said he will not give in to pressure. “I feel very privileged to contribute to this nation. Voting is important. It’s all about the majority of the country,” he
said. Harlequin then expressed his belief that politics in Guyana is not what it should be, and that the parties contesting care more about the power than about developing the country.
“The parties involved should be focused on lifting Guyana from its current state. What I see are parties focused on winning the election rather than bettering a nation,” he opined.
Despite his concerns, he made it clear that on Monday, he will be exercising his constitutional right to vote.
Meanwhile, Mellinda Deonarine, a teacher, expressed much confidence in participating in the electoral process.
“I am excited to vote, yes…I’m not going to be pressured by anyone, I won’t vote based on who my parents vote for or anything like that. I think it is important to vote since we are the ones putting such a Government in place to guarantee us a brighter future,” she noted.
Deonarine said she is aware that many youths are being influenced by their elders and not weighing the pros and the cons before making a decision for themselves.
As such, she said young people who are gearing up
to vote on Monday, “should carefully assess the contesting parties, assess their track records, assess what they have to offer, assess their personalities and then mark the “X” on the party with the better plan for Guyana.”
Dave Ramcharitar also expressed great confidence about his role in the electoral process. “As a first time voter, I feel empowered and excited since I now have the ability to choose which political party I would like to see governing this country,” he stated.
He too underscored the importance of voting, urging
all first time voters to capitalise on this opportunity, noting that it will contribute to the development of the country.
Bagotville murder suspect arrested
Allan Barker, the suspect who was wanted by Police in connection with the murder of his wife, Donessa Joyce-Barker, was arrested early Tuesday morning in Sophia.
Leslie James, Assistant Commissioner and Head of the Criminal Investigations Department, confirmed that the man was arrested in ‘A’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown on Tuesday, and is presently in Police custody assisting with investigations. It is anticipated that he will soon be charged and placed before the court.
Joyce-Barker, 28 and a mother of one, was on Thursday evening allegedly stabbed to death by Barker during a row at their home
at Bagotville, West Bank Demerara.
According to information received, the couple had been married for more than a year, but had been experiencing marital issues. The suspect had frequently accused her of being unfaithful, causing them to separate a few times.
On Thursday night, the couple was heard arguing followed by a scuffle. After some time, Barker left the home, but returned only to find the door locked.
He reportedly got annoyed, jumped through the bedroom window, collected a knife from the kitchen and stabbed the woman several times.
Neighbours ran to the woman’s rescue, but it was too late. She was picked up and rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The suspect had fled the scene with the murder weapon. Joyce-Barker was reportedly burnt by Barker resulting in her being hospitalised.
A relative told Guyana Times that the woman would normally defend her husband whenever a report was made to the Police.
“Every time she get beat, she always say that she doesn’t want to continue with the matter... he does beat she bad and always accuse her of cheating on him,” the relative stated.
Donessa Joyce-Barker
Ashley Singh
Kevol Harlequin
Dave Ramcharitar
PPP/C Enmore meeting:
Residents reminded of long struggle for freedom
Acrowd of close to 2000 residents from the village of Enmore, on the East Coast of Demerara, were reminded of their community’s “rich history of struggle” by President Donald Ramotar when he headlined a meeting in the East Coast community on Monday evening .
The president recalled the history of Enmore in the fight for freedom and reminded residents “you have a proud history, a history of a struggle and a history of achievement” as he recalled the sacrifice made by the Enmore Martyrs, decades ago. He said, “In 1948, the workers died fighting for a better life and sacrificed themselves so we could have freedom, and that is recognised today as the beginning of the end of colonialism in Guyana”
He said, “... we are at cross roads in this country again, and these elections will determine in which direction we go, whether we go forward or go backwards”. The hard fought for gains that have been achieved, are at risk of being lost, and President Ramotar reminded them of the importance of the soon to be held elections.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, he noted, has
a long record of achievement and it must be judged on that.
He explained that the country was bankrupt in 1992 with a debt bigger than the economy, and “we had to borrow to pay those debts”. The Government has now reduced the debt to 60 per cent of the GDP from 950 per cent, the President explained. “This debunks claims about poor economic management”.
“This election is about our future,” he stated, and the PPP/C’s Manifesto gives a clear direction in which the party wants to take Guyana. The gains in education were also highlighted and performance of students, locally and regionally over the years.
“Government will ensure that the population is highly educated, hence the focus on education,” he emphasised. In all his engagements with Guyanese, the Head of State has been underscoring the importance of education, hence the numerous initiatives Government has introduced to encourage children to complete their education. Government’s policies have already resulted in the attainment of universal nursery and primary education and with 75 per cent of the secondary level youths attaining a secondary edu-
cation. President Ramotar vowed to have 100 per cent achievement in this regard within a year of returning to office. It was also explained that there was 30 per cent of trained teachers in 1992, but today, there is about 75 per cent.
He described one aspect of the Government’s Rural Development Plan which is to ensure that rural residents have as many opportunities to develop themselves as oth-
according to the President, it was another reason why all needed to be educated. The President pledged to continue guiding Guyana along its developmental path as he stressed the need for cheap, reliable energy to attract investors. This move would lead to more job creation. The most important aspect towards Guyana attaining cheap energy is the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Dam. Once functional, he added,
The hydro power project will not only lead to cheaper power as more investors turn to Guyana, but will also facilitate the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. Investment in other sectors such as tourism and the hotel industry would even see the need for more five-star hotels being constructed as a result of more people coming to this country, he added.
ers in urban areas, such as the building of a call centre in the community. This facility will employ 1000 people, and
there would be an immediate reduction in tariffs of, “20 to 40 per cent and more disposable income available” for all consumers. The hydro power project’s construction is set to begin, and President Ramotar said once he is reelected, “I hope we can begin building the project before the end of the year” as investors have already been identified to assist in this process.
The fact that Greece is undergoing serious financial difficulties, but is being offered respite due to its tourism sector demonstrates the importance it can play in a country’s economy. In order for this to reach its full potential, infrastructure such as the expanded Cheddi Jagan International Airport will have to be put in place, as it is only through this and
other transformative projects, such as the Specialty Hospital, which the parliamentary Opposition blocked, that the country can realise its full potential, the Head of State emphasised. He slammed the actions of the political Opposition for their stance on the projects to develop the country, and said that this showed the true character of their leadership. Many of these same projects are listed in their manifesto and seem to be copied from that of the PPP/C’s, the Head of State said. Mention was made of the sugar industry and Government’s plans to invest and diversify the industry with the production of more value-added products such as ethanol and refined sugars. The rice sector will also benefit from more input to ensure that farmers continue to benefit from favourable prices and the production of value added products such as cereals.
In closing, President Ramotar urged residents to ensure that they not only vote for the PPP/C, but also that their ballots were correctly stamped before being placed in ballot boxes on Election Day.
“The PPP/C has always stood by you and I’m asking you to stand by me and let us have the biggest majority in the history of this country”. He later spoke at a smaller meeting at Back Circle, West Ruimveldt and made a similar pitch for the support of residents on May 11. (GINA)
OAS deploys Electoral Observation Mission to Guyana
The Electoral Observation Mission of the Organisation of American States (EOM/ OAS) began its final deployment in Georgetown on Wednesday, ahead of the May 11 General and Regional Elections here.
The delegation, headed by the former Foreign Minister of Belize Lisa Shoman who was designated by Secretary General José Miguel Insulza, comprises 23 observers from 13 countries (Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States).
The first batch arrived in Guyana on May 2 following a preliminary visit in mid-April to learn about the preparations for the elections.
The Mission will focus its observation on electoral organisation, electoralpolitical financing, and the equal participation of men and women in the electoral process. It will also gather
information about the status of the recommendations made in the last EOM/OAS in 2011.
The EOM/OAS will be meeting with electoral authorities, representatives of political parties, government officials, and members of the media and civil society organisations, among other stakeholders, to discuss perspectives on the electoral process.
On Election Day, observers will visit polling stations across the country at every stage from the opening of the polls to the counting of votes and the publication of results.
This is the fifth time the OAS has observed elections in Guyana, following Missions in 1997, 2001, 2006 and 2011.The day after the election, the EOM/OAS will present its preliminary findings in a press conference and will subsequently present a report to the permanent council of the organisation in Washington, DC.
Meanwhile, Former US President and Head of the Carter Centre, Jimmy
Carter is due here along with a large team of observers to monitor the electoral process.
In an earlier statement, the Carter Centre said it has launched an international election observation mission for Guyana’s May 11 elections at the invitation of the Government of Guyana.
The core team of experts will be joined this week by six medium-term observers, together representing nine countries.
According to the centre, its observers will meet regularly with representatives of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), political party candidates, civil society organisations, the international community, and citizen election observers to assess electoral preparations and the pre-electoral environment, including election administration, campaigning, voter education, and other issues.
Other observers are expected to include the Commonwealth and the local, Electoral Affairs Bureau among others.
President Donald Ramotar addressing attendees at the Enmore community meeting
Arrival Day celebrated at Highbury
– $35M bronze monument to be mounted in Berbice
Abronze monument is soon to be mounted in Berbice in memory of the first set of East Indians who arrived in Guyana from India. So says Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Venkatachalam Mahalingam, who was addressing a gathering to commemorate Arrival Day here.
Speaking at Highbury on Tuesday where Arrival Day celebrations were held in observance on the first set of East Indians to set foot on Guyana’s shores on May 5, 1838, High Commissioner said that the monument which is currently being built in India, will cost $35 million and will be mounted at Palmyra, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
The High Commissioner who was attending his first Arrival Day celebration in Guyana took the opportunity to congratulate the Berbice Indian Cultural Committee (BICC), which has been observing to arrival of the first set of East Indians to arrive even before Arrival Day was made a
national holiday. “We at the Indian High Commission feel that we are separated by long distance between Indian and Guyana and to add to that there is no direct transport between the two countries. I can assure you that it is my endeavour that this difficulty is eased so that all of us can get in touch with India physically and in a comfortable way very soon,” High Commissioner Mahalingam said, as he took the opportunity to make a monetary contribution the BICC.
On May 5, 1838, the MV Whitby arrived at Port Highbury with 270 on board. The Whitby sailed from Calcutta on January 13, 1838 with 249 immigrants, and after a voyage of 112 days, arrived in Guyana on the May 5. Five Indians died on the voyage. The ship immediately sailed to Berbice and 164 immigrants disembarked; having being recruited by Highbury and Waterloo plantations. The ship then returned to Demerara and between May 14-16, the
remaining 80 immigrants landed and were taken to Belle Vue Estate.
Of the total of 244 Indians who arrived on the Whitby, there were 233 men, five women and six children.
Tuesday’s programme was packed with cultural performances and began with a replica of the MV Whitby being pulled on wheels along the East Bank of Berbice main assess road and stopped at the monument centre at Highbury where it was opened and several persons dressed in traditional Indian wear walked out carrying with them large bundles.
It was the introduction to a play written by Indera Yacob and called “Jahagie”. The play depicted the unity which existed between the Africans and the Indians back then and how each group depended on the other. The ever emotional play also focused on the abuse meted out to the early immigrants by the white plantation owners.
President of the BICC
Chandra Sohan noted that Highbury has always been promoting harmony and unity. He said as Guyanese we have for the past year been able to practice our different cultures and at least for the past half century we have been able to live in harmony and peacefully Sohan urged that and as we go into this election we remain that way we remain that way. He said that we must know our past in order to guide the way forward, but it is not that easy… “It is very important for us to be able to understand the past we came from in order for us to be able to direct ourselves.”
Meanwhile Region Six Chairman David Armogan also speaking at the ceremony said as East Indians, Guyanese should be proud of what their ancestors did
over the years they showed that strength and solidarity. “And that is the spirit that we today have a lot to be proud of and that is why today we must come here to celebrate out achievements. They have managed to come out of the ranks of servants and the system of servitude and today Indian people all over the world hold powerful and influential positions, so much so that they can run world affairs.”
He said Indians have a proud heritage and one which they should not be ashamed of. In every area of human endeavour worldwide, people of Indian origin develop. “Do not forget the others that came to Guyana; the Africans, the Chinese, the Portuguese and our first people that came to Guyana, the Amerindians – they too had
worked hard to build, today we are reaping the benefits of it and we must continue to build so that future generations can benefit.”
He noted that Guyana belongs to all Guyanese and we must not let our peaceful be mistaken as weakness. The Chairman urged all to continue to live in unity. Former Information Minister Moses Nagamootoo who is now a Prime Ministerial Candidate at the upcoming General and Regional Elections, applauded the strides made by the BICC in promoting Indian heritage through commemorating the arrival on East Indians to Guyana in 1838.
He said we as a people must pay tribute to those who came and noted that our ancestors worked in difficult times. Arrival Day,
for them when they came to the shores of Guyana 177 years ago. Despite the difficulties that they faced, they emerged a strong people and
made important contributions to the development of our country… but we must continue to build.
What our ancestors have
PPP/C slams Glenn Lall for refusing political ad
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic said it has welcomed the statement by Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall that he would not allow his medium to be used to incite violence and disrespect by refusing to carry an advertisement of the Party which depicted a supporter of the Opposition urinating on a PPP/C flag at a meeting in Warlock, West Ruimveldt last week.
The PPP/C said Lall, a confessed tax evader should be aware that the newspaper he owns has built its reputation doing just that. “How can Lall be taken seriously when Kaieteur News columnist Freddie Kissoon spews venomous remarks on a daily basis, disrespecting public servants and members of the Private Sector who are singled out and targeted for abuse.
The most vulgar form of attacks have been directed at a decent woman, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, just because
she chose to exercise her democratic right by accepting President Ramotar’s offer to be his running mate. Freddie Kissoon’s
shameless attacks on our Prime Ministerial Candidate have not only been unchecked, but it is believed to be encouraged by the Publisher and Editor of Kaieteur
News.”
According to the PPP/C, the Kaieteur News has been selective in its policies in that it allows the Opposition to place ads and issue erroneous statements which do the very same thing Glenn Lall seeks to condemn.
“The PPP/C believes that this new awakening by the Kaieteur News Publisher is designed to muzzle the Government from exposing the revolting and indecent behaviour of a female APNU/AFC supporter who urinated on, and later burnt the PPP flag to the cheers of jubilant Opposition protesters and their children, who turned out in their numbers to violently disrupt a PPP/C meeting....”
The Party said it was interesting to note that not only has the Kaieteur News been engaging in censorship, but it also suffered from an acute bout of self-censorship when it comes to exposing and reporting on the Opposition’s acts of aggression, intimidation
and provocation. “It is also interesting to note that this disgusting, lewd behaviour of the female APNU-AFC supporter was not even reported in the Kaieteur News, but would have been given
front page coverage had it been an Indian supporter of the PPP/C
caught on camera, urinating on the APNU flag.”
The PPP/C said the advertisement that was refused by Kaieteur News and referred to by Lall, merely meant to show what Lall and the Editor of Kaieteur News failed to carry as a legitimate news item, and which he and his editor failed to condemn because of their association with the leadership of the Opposition APNU-AFC. “Lall’s disgust with the advertisement is merely an attempt to kill the messenger rather than to condemn the vulgar act of a known APNU-AFC supporter. Glenn Lall should be cognisant of the weight of his authority in setting policy guidelines for his publication, as it does not seem to apply to his Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris who, like Kissoon, continues to spew malicious lies, allegations and innuendos attacking and insulting members of the PPP/C Administration on a daily basis in his satire “Dem Boys Seh”.”
Nagamootoo said, is being observed to recognise all six races of Guyana who were brought from other parts of the world.
(L-R) Former Local Government Minister Harripersaud Nokta, Regional Chairman David Armogan, High Commissioner Venkatachalam Mahalingam, BICC Secretary Chris Raghunnandan, former magistrate Chandra Sohan and APNU/AFC Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo
The Sri Dhama Dance Group of D’Edward Village performing on Tuesday at Highbury
Kaieteur News Publisher and tax evader Glenn Lall
Kaieteur News Editor Adam Harris
wednesday, may 6, 2015 | guyanatimesgy.com
Opposition holds major rallies in hinterland
....makes more promises
The Opposition coalition wrapped up its elections campaign meetings with major rallies in Mabaruma, Mahdia and Lethem over the past few days, boasting of a surge in support and promising the
hinterland residents a range of goodies days ahead of the May 11 polls.
According to the coalition, it has been fanning out into Regions One (Barima-Waini); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper EssequiboUpper Takutu) to spread its message as the days wind down to when the nation will head to the polls to select the party they believe are capa-
ble of taking the country forward.
At a public rally held in Mahdia, Region Eight on Monday, leader of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Presidential Candidate of
the coalition, David Granger; Prime Ministerial Candidate, Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Moses Nagamootoo, AFC’s Trevor Williams and several other members of the coalition took to the platform, detailing their plans for that region. The slogan of the coalition, “a better life for all, better must come” was sounded across the region by the leaders.
Meanwhile, over at Region One, Mabaruma and Port Kaituma, a coalition team led by Sandra Granger, wife of David Granger; Catherine Hughes; Dr George Norton; and Mervyn Williams, on Tuesday held a “mini public rally” where the coalition’s messages were not only disseminated but residents were given the opportunity to air their views and concerns on matters which were affecting the community and the region as a whole.
Speaking to the Guyana Times on Tuesday evening, Hughes related that the response received from the community was “electrifying
and overwhelming” to say the least. Hughes said that the response was beyond her expectations. “There were lots of people, it was really beyond what I had expected.” According to Hughes, the residents then related some of the problems which were severely affecting them in the region, including deplorable roads, the lack of technical schools and employment opportunities for the youth. She noted that the message of the coalition was the same as the one it has been preaching all across the country, that is, “every Guyanese deserved a piece of the national pie and better must come” and that this will be ensured under an APNU/AFC Government. Up to press time, the coalition was conducting its Lethem, Region Nine rally after which it will move to the mining town of Linden where it will conduct its penultimate rally in Wismar on Thursday before moving to the Square of the Revolution on Saturday for its last and final rally.
Caribbean Airlines appoints new head of corporate communications
Caribbean Airlines has appointed Dionne Ligoure as its new Head of Corporate Communications, effective May 1.
In a release, Caribbean Airlines said it was pleased to announce the appointment. Ligoure will have oversight of Caribbean Airlines’ Media Relations, Public Relations, Crisis Communication, Employee Communication and Corporate Social Responsibility.
“Dionne brings passion, energy and over 15 years’ professional experience to this critical position in Caribbean Airlines. She has worked in international and multicultural environments in the Caribbean, the United States and Europe, and we welcome her to the Caribbean Airlines team,” stated Chief Executive Officer Michael DiLollo.
Ligoure started her airline career in 1995 and has held a number of communications positions of increasing responsibility. She holds a Master of
Newly-appointed Head of Corporate Communications for Caribbean Airlines Limited, Dionne Ligoure
Science, Information and Communication Sciences and a BSc in Management Studies.
“I am delighted to join the Caribbean Airlines team and to serve in the capacity of Head, Corporate Communications,” Ligoure said. She continued: “Caribbean Airlines continues to make a valuable contribution to the Region and I am looking forward to growing CAL’s influence within our key stakeholder groups.”
APNU/AFC Presidential Candidate David Granger greets one of the coalition’s supporters at the rally in Mahdia, Region Eight on Monday
No fishing licences have been issued to Chinese or anyone else
Dear Editor,
In their desperation, APNU-AFC has resorted to what they know best – tell lies. Their latest lie is that the PPP/C has given out licenses to Chinese investors who will eliminate all opportunities for local fishermen. This is a bald face lie. The fact is that the PPP/C Government has not given out any license to any investor – Chinese or any other nationality.
This is a fact that they know. The PPP/C Government has had proposals from investors across the Caribbean, North America, Central America, South America, Europe and Asia who are interested in the fishing industry of Guyana, particularly in our deep sea fishing assets.
None of these interests focus on artisanal fishing, where most of our fishermen make their living. In the trawler business which engages predominantly on sea bobs and prawns, only local fishing businesses are engaged and we have worked closely with the trawlers association to manage this resource, from how many trawlers are licensed to how many months per year fishing is allowed.
In terms of deep water we have encouraged our local fishermen to explore the possibility of this major asset. At least one local investor has been given permission to modify trawlers and to begin fishing in zones that are not usually fished by local enterprises.
We have in our discussions with international investors made it clear that
we will not allow any fishing in zones where local fishermen make their living.
We have also made it pellucidly clear that we will not even consider any interest in fishing in areas for sea bobs and prawns.
It is of interest to us that in spite of many investors who have expressed interest, APNU-AFC has only targeted the Chinese investors. This is in spite of the fact that the PPP/C Government has over three years not agreed to issue any license to these investors.
Our recent requirement for Vessel Monitoring Device (VMD) is intended to qualify Guyana for international marine certification that will make Guyana’s fishing product more valuable. These and other initiatives have protected the fishing industry in Guyana.
It is interesting that only the PPP/C has made proposals for the fishing industry in our manifesto. APNU-AFC has totally ignored the fishing industry in its manifesto.
Now armed with a set of lies to come to the fishermen and instead of telling fishermen what they will do, they try to fool fishermen with total fabrication and bogeyman politics.
The PPP/C has grown the fishing industry – both marine and aquaculture. We will continue to protect our national assets and ensure that these assets continue to benefit our country.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy Agriculture Minister
Guyana is now an economically stable and prosperous country
Dear Editor,
I read a paid political ad on May 1 under the caption, “APNU-AFC Greenidge speaks on his legacy”. I am in agreement with this political ad since it simply highlights Carl Greenidge’s legacy of incompetence as a Finance Minister.
Greenidge was Guyana’s Minister of Finance from 1983 to 1992 during the rule, if not misrule, of the illegal PNC dictatorship. He is now the PNC/ APNU-AFC’s coalition chief spokesman on financial matters.
What does he know about macro financing and its management by the way? Yet Greenidge is aspiring to be Minister of Finance once again should the APNU-AFC coalition
wins governmental office which will never be.
All of Greenidge’s national budgets prior to 1992 were called by the Guyanese people “Empty Rice Pot” (ERP) budget which resulted in never ending long lines for basic food commodities, kerosene oil and fuel just to name a few.
Guyana became literally a ghost country under the illegal PNC regime, while Greenidge was the Minister of Finance.
But quite correctly the management of Guyana’s national economy by Greenidge from 1983 to 1992 saw Guyana becoming the poorest country in the world and the second poorest country in the western hemisphere with US$1.9 billion in debt and US $1.14
billion in arrears owed to international institutions, foreign countries and commercial banks.
Quiet correctly as well lending by the IMF, CBD and World Bank were cut off because of serious arrears which plunged Guyana into an economic crisis and moreso an economic collapse.
But fortunately for Guyana, our beautiful country was saved when in October 1992 the PPP/C won the elections where the process of social and economic reconstruction began. Today, Guyana under the PPP/C Government is now an economically stable and properous country with sustainable economic growth endorsed by the international financial institutions.
So basically Carl Greenidge of the PNC-led APNU-AFC coalition is a socalled economist who bankrupted Guyana’s economy which caused the Guyanese People lots of severe economic hardships and miseries when he was a Minister of Finance.
But the right-thinking Guyanese people will never allow the APNU-AFC Coalition to again cause the bankruptcy and destruction of Guyana’s economy which was rebuilt by the PPP/C Government.
In this regard on May 11 they will be voting for peace,progress and prosperity to ensure a landslide victory for the PPP/C whose symbol is the cup.
Peter Persaud
Is GECOM trustworthy for the elections?
Dear Editor, Given that elections are just days away, and since I will not be working with GECOM, I would like this share this concern of mine.
Having read the letter titled, “GECOM unfairly appointed Elections Clerks in Region 5” published in Guyana Times, I thought it best to share my experience with GECOM also.
I am still to be convinced as a young voter, whether or not I should vote in these elections. As a first time voter, I was excited to vote until I thought of this issue. My issue lies in trusting the body that will be conducting the elections.
While, there are several observers watching what is going on, I believe what they are only getting what they want to hear from GECOM.
GECOM says it is following international best practice. They big question is GECOM worthy of trusting?
I was one of the many who wasted our time spending two days of our time with the hope that we will be treated fairly in terms of employment. We did not get jobs. But sadly, we did not know it was a family business. If only we knew, we would have not wasted our time. In the future, I do not see the need to advertise and waste the tax payers money, just ask your staff and they will provide you with people to work. No need for outsiders. I stopped chasing after GECOM for an E-day job. After all family and friends dominate the employment. I will never apply in the future. I wasted time and resources. There was no cen-
tral list and I was advised to visit the various centres.
With all being said, I am now left a bit confused if I should vote. Will my vote be treated the same way employment issues are being treated? It appears that some applications just disappear.
If in simple things like employment there was little transparency – your officers said that only persons with 50 per cent and over got through yet you cannot to date inform people of their scores if really they truly fail, isn’t transparent.
Imagine, GECOM is implying that even UG people can’t get 50 per cent in that exam too. Worst yet, there was no letter sent to applicants who did not get through to explain why they did not get through.
This is not transparency. Even worst, there was no submission of qualifications for your posts advertised. This is not transparency. In the future, stop telling John Public they need X amount of degrees and subjects, when in the true sense they don’t need anything since these are factors never taken into considerations for appointment.
As a young person, I wonder if I will ever get to work with GECOM given that there are some regular faces who are always selected, despite their age. It seems that they have reserved position waiting on them. I wonder what will happen to young people like myself.
Concerned Voter
Guyana was a pariah state known for rigged elections
May 11 would determine the future of young people
Dear Editor, May 11 would determine the future of young persons in Guyana. That future must be based on programmes and policies that present to you the opportunity of owning your own home, advancing your personal careers and ensuring that you improve and increase your employability.
This can only be done through higher standards of education and a more qualitative delivery of education that is comparable to any global standards.
This is the vision of the PPP/C for young people. It is very important that young persons under -
stand that youth empowerment and involvement in the democratic development of the society is critical, that opportunity must be created through the involvement of youths in policy formulation and implementation.
The PPP/C has always placed great confidence in young people and it is with this hope that we appeal to every young Guyanese to support a brighter future, a future in which democracy will be the hallmark of our development process, one in which their personal careers and ambition will be matched with national priorities and national
visions that will create a better Guyana for all.
The new Guyana must be one that is dynamic, bringing the best infrastructure, modern facilities and services which would drive change and create more opportunities for young people.
This future must be bold, filled with innovation and attractive to every young Guyanese. It is clear from examining every manifesto that this type of future is represented in the PPP/C manifesto. I implore every young Guyanese to vote PPP/C.
Name withheld by request
Dear Editor,
The announcement by Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma that an Observer Team headed by Kate Wilkinson has arrived in the country to observe the May 11 national and regional elections is welcome news.
Guyana is a member of the Commonwealth and the preservation and consolidation of democracy and democratic rule must be a matter of concern to that body.
This is especially so given Guyana’s past history of rigged elections and concomitant dictatorial rule for a period that spawned some twenty-eight years during which Guyana was reduced to the shameful status of the poorest country in the western hemisphere.
Guyana during those years was regarded as a pariah state known for rigged elections, poverty and backwardness which only came to an end following the restoration of democratic rule
on October 5, 1992. Indeed, were it not for the presence of the Carter Centre led by former US President Jimmy Carter himself and other credible international observer groups such as the Commonwealth Group, the OAS and CARICOM the elections might have once again been rigged in favour of the PNC.
There are those who credited Desmond Hoyte for the restoration of democratic rule ignoring the fact that the biggest electoral fraud in this country took place in 1985 following the death of Forbes Burnham and the assumption of Desmond Hoyte as President. In elections held later that year, Hoyte took roughly three quarters of the votes cast in full view of local and international observers. It took sustained pressure from the local and international community before Hoyte finally agreed to electoral reforms which in-
cluded a new voters’ list, a balanced elections commission and more importantly the counting of votes at the place of poll which he declared to be a logistical nightmare. Elections which were due in 1990 was postponed by two years to allow for opposition demands to be met.
President Carter and his Carter Centre along with other western countries and the donor community were mainly responsible for the restoration of democracy to Guyana.
Today, twenty three years later they are once again in Guyana, this time not to bring an end to dictatorial rule but to ensure that our hard won democracy is preserved and consolidated.
The presence of GECOM accredited observer teams is most reassuring and will certainly help to boost voter confidence and morale.
Hydar Ally
OPINION I SAY...
How did you spend Indian Arrival Day?
Kamile Wilson
“Today being Indian Arrival Day, it is a very quiet day, maybe because of the ceremonial way Indian came to Guyana, which is indeed a blessing for us as a people just as how the Amerindians and the Africans worked hard in the sugar industry, it is the same with the East Indian hardships, and it is a bless day to be here, I am surely enjoying it.”
Emily Dilchand
“Indian Arrival Day is celebrated on May 5 every year. It’s all about the Indian Immigrants and their arrival in Guyana, and the hardships that they had to endure. I would like to wish everyone a Happy Indian Arrival Day.”
Seliene Persaud
“I am really enjoying the holiday with my family and friends; we decided to take the day and have a picnic celebration at the National Park as members from our church joined us, and have a lovely afternoon. On top of it all, I must say I love the Indian dishes that would normally be prepared on this day, and I would like to wish everyone a Happy Indian Arrival Day.”
Fiza Shaun
“I am a very busy individual and must say that I am very thankful for the national holiday in that, I was able to come out with my family and friends and have a fun filled afternoon. I also commend the work of our Indian immigrants and take this opportunity to express Indian Arrival Day greetings to all.”
Amish Badal
“The arrival of the East Indian immigrants and their contributions to Guyana should not be forgotten. As a child growing up, I can remember my parents celebrating Indian Arrival Day every year with the preparation of sweet meats and conducting of various ceremonial services. I would like to extend Indian Arrival Day greetings to all.”
Patrick Ramsammy
“Indian Arrival Day serves as a reminder of our affluent ancestry, where we came from, the struggles we endured, and the road we have embarked upon. It facilitates for acknowledging, embracing and celebrating the Indian culture. We have come a long way, our contributions were many to the Guyanese society and we will continue to sustain our heritage. Happy Indian Arrival Day to all!”
Mark Borne
“Indian Arrival Day is important to the Guyanese culture. We share various cultural backgrounds, and it educates us all, no matter what ethnic group you may have originated from. Personally, I believe that the Indians have contributed a lot, and I must commend their finger licking dishes and craft work that they have passed on to the other citizens of Guyana. I would like to take this opportunity in wishing everyone a Happy Indian Arrival Day.”
Abdul Ashique
“Being an East Indian I am aware of the fact that today is being celebrated as the commemoration of East Indians in Guyana. Indian Arrival Day being a national holiday, I am very grateful because I was able to get some time off from my busy schedule so that I can have a fun filled day with my family. We decided to have a picnic at the National Park and also overlooking the children as they enjoyed themselves. I would like to wish everyone a Happy Indian Arrival Day.”
Aleem Haniff
“Indian Arrival Day is seen as the celebration of East Indians in Guyana, I must say that I am proud of my culture and the traditions that were passed on over the past years. It is a day that I would normally take to relax and have a splendid time with my family and friends as we enjoyed the wide range of Indian dishes. Happy Indian Arrival Day to all!”
Kallicharran’s endorsement of APNU/AFC
... confirms their “friends and family” affair – PPP
The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) said that the recent announcement that cricket legend Alvin Kallicharran has endorsed the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition, confirmed the widely-held belief that that body was a group of family and friends.
The Opposition in the past had condemned the PPP/C for putting a number of its leaders’ children and spouses on its List of Candidates. In a statement, the PPP/C s aid in addition to naming themselves and their children on the List of Candidates including David Granger, Moses Nagamootoo and Rupert Roopnaraine, the APNU/AFC due to a complete lack of popular
support and out of pure desperation, has extended to include in-laws. Kallicharran, PPP/C Candidate Adrian Venkatasuma Anamayah? said, is an in-law of Nagamootoo.
Anamayah said Kallicharran is a national hero and great cricketer but resides permanently overseas. “This is another cheap political gimmick by a faltering campaign. Imagine they’ve the audacity to accuse the PPP of nepotism.”
Kallicharran in a statement of endorsement said that after a very long time he was able to spend quality time in Guyana and was convinced that a lot more can be done for sport and that APNU/AFC can do this. “I am convinced that a lot more can be done if Government partners with the various associations for the promotion of sports rath-
er than trying to take control of it.
After careful thought I have decided to endorse the APNU/AFC because I think it is time for change.”
have heard enough promises from this Government and what they will do after this election when for the past two decades they had the opportunity to deliver on
He said after 23 years it is clear that sports have been neglected in Guyana. “We
these promises and failed. It is time for change.”
Following the unveil-
ing of the PPP/C List of Candidates, the coalition had accused the Party of nepotism, but the ruling Party had stood resolutely behind the List, restating its position that it is the winning List founded on the principles of continuity, youth diversity and varying forms of equity and balance.
PPP/C Executive Member Irfaan Ali, speaking with the Guyana Times, declared that the Party was proud that it could produce a List of competent, qualified, passionate and dedicated Guyanese who were desirous of serving their country at varying levels when the Party was re-elected to Government with a majority.
He debunked the concerns raised by the coalition that the List was nepotistic in nature, because there were several children of vet-
erans of the PPP/C on the List.
Ali said that the fact that the senior members of the ruling Party could have convinced their immediate family and other relatives to rally around the cause of continuing development by joining the Party’s List after they were duly nominated via the various Party organs was laudable.
From a personal standpoint, he said, immediate members of the family of a person were in the best position to evaluate that person as to whether they were sincere in what they were doing.
The fact that so many children of the APNU/AFC coalition rejected being members of the List shows clearly that they probably find their parents’ politics to be hypocritical or deficient or both.
Cricket legend Alvin Kallicharran
Pacquiao blames shoulder injury for loss to Mayweather C
Manny Pacquiao blamed a shoulder injury for his defeat by Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas, claiming it stopped him from using his right hand.
American Mayweather, 38, outclassed his Philippine rival at the MGM Grand and was awarded a wide unanimous decision.
Pacquiao, 36, said he thought he did enough to win the fight, despite most observers agreeing with the verdict.
“Three weeks before the fight I got a tear in my right shoulder,” he said. “It got better but it wasn’t 100%.”
Mayweather started the brighter of the two and rocked Pacquiao with a number of right hand counter punches in the early exchanges.
The Filipino came back at the American in the fourth round, stunning Mayweather with a left hand and again in the sixth round but was never able to back it up and Mayweather ran out a comfortable winner on the judges scorecards.
Pacquiao said he wanted to have an injection in the shoulder before the fight but the Nevada Athletic Commission refused.
Pacquiao’s promoter, Bob Arum, claimed he in-
formed the Commission of the injury five days ago and defended the decision not to cancel the fight, the most lucrative in boxing history.
“Athletes always fight hurt and we felt the work that was done on the shoulder during training would enable him to use his right hand,” said Arum.
Commission chairman Francisco Aguilar said he first knew about the injury two hours before the fight, when Pacquiao’s camp requested a doctor sit in his corner, a request that was denied.
Mayweather, meanwhile, said he was carrying injuries to both arms and hands.
“If he had come out victorious, I would have shown respect and said he was the better man,” he said, after adding Pacquiao’s WBO welterweight belt to the WBC and WBA titles he already owned.
Mayweather, a fiveweight world champion, also criticised those who doubted him, telling them he had made them “eat their words”.
“For years everyone said that I was scared and that I’d lose,” said Mayweather, who is undefeated in 48 professional fights stretching back 19 years.
“I made the non-believers into believers. I was
the better man, the smarter fighter - more calculated, more patient. He was applying pressure but not landing many punches and I was just keeping my jab in his face.”
Mayweather, who said he was presented with a cheque for $100m (£66m) in his dressing room after the fight, also revealed he planned to relinquish his titles and that his final bout in September would be a non-championship fight.
As well as the welterweight belts, Mayweather is also the WBC light-middleweight champion.
Asked if his last fight might be against Britain’s Amir Khan, Mayweather replied: “I’m not thinking about that. All I want to do right now is go home and rest.”
Mayweather’s father and trainer, Floyd Sr, criticised those who booed him before and after the fight.
“My son should be treated better,” said Mayweather Sr. “I’m not saying it bothers him but if I was in his shoes, it would bother me.
“He’s paying the price for being honest and for being too good. When these guys are throwing punches and he’s making them miss, people call that boring. (BBC Sport)
Chelsea clinch Premier League title with 3 games to spare
helsea secured the Premier League title by beating Crystal Palace at an ecstatic Stamford Bridge.
Jose Mourinho’s side needed three points to complete the triumph that has become an inevitability in recent weeks as they moved out of sight of their rivals to reclaim the crown from Manchester City.
And victory was secured by Eden Hazard’s goal on the stroke of half-time, the Belgian heading past Julian Speroni after the Palace goalkeeper had saved the PFA Player of the Year’s penalty.
That gave Mourinho his third title as Chelsea manager, and the first of his second spell in charge. It is the club’s fifth top-flight title and comes five years after their last and 60 years since
in 2004-05 and 2005-06.
Banners were draped from the Shed End at Stamford Bridge in honour of Mourinho, bearing slogans such as: “The Special One - He’s One Of Us.” And while the Portuguese may be a divisive figure elsewhere, there is no doubting his heroic status at Chelsea after the successes he has engineered.
The statistics back up Mourinho’s brilliance as this was his eighth title in 12 years with Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan and Real Madrid.
This decisive victory over Palace may not have been achieved with sparkling football but the title win was closed out with the nerveless professionalism of a team that knew what needed to be done and did it - as they have so often.
are the Premier League’s outstanding side led by the Premier League’s outstanding manager. They were forced to make a late adjustment to their starting line-up when Ramires was taken ill and Juan Cuadrado was drafted in.
For all the energy on the pitch and expectation off it, the first half was a nonevent until Hazard’s penalty - apart from some wayward handling from Palace keeper Speroni, who fumbled Didier Drogba’s free-kick having almost let in Nemanja Matic with a wild punch. The deadlock was broken right on half-time when Hazard surged into the area before tumbling theatrically under James McArthur’s challenge.
Palace clearly felt Hazard made the most of
their first.
The celebrations that swept around Stamford Bridge at the final whistle were fully deserved for a Chelsea side who have set the pace since the start of the season.
They played with flair and verve to make an allconquering start then showed the ruthless efficiency that is the hallmark of all Mourinho sides after losing leading scorer Diego Costa for a crucial closing phase of the campaign.
At the head of it all was the master strategist Mourinho, adding the title to the Capital One Cup won against Tottenham at Wembley and vindicating Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich’s decision to turn, once again, to the manager who brought him his first successes with titles
And when it was done and hundreds of blue streamers littered the Stamford Bridge turf before Chelsea’s elated players took a lap of honour with Abramovich looking on, the challenge was laid down to the chasing pack to respond to the domination Mourinho has now re-established in west London.
Chelsea’s title win has been built on a mixture of the old guard, such as inspirational captain John Terry, who has rolled back the years magnificently, and the newer breed, such as the brilliant Hazard and those key summer signings Cesc Fabregas and Costa.
The chants of “Boring Boring Chelsea” - started by Arsenal’s fans and repeated here by Palace supporters - carry a hollow ring as Mourinho’s side have proved without question that they
slight contact - which he certainly did - and their frustration increased when the Belgian reacted first after his penalty was saved by Speroni, heading the rebound past the stranded keeper.
There was the sense of the inevitable about proceedings as Chelsea moved towards a triumphant conclusion after the break, with only a Jason Puncheon shot that flew inches wide and a Wilfried Zaha effort that was blocked by Thibaut Courtois threatening to delay the coronation. All the tension and pressure of the final few weeks were released when referee Kevin Friend blew his whistle, the normally impassive Abramovich punching the air as Chelsea returned to the pinnacle of the domestic game.
Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather embrace after the mega-fight
Chelsea were previously champions in 1955, 2005, 2006 and 2010
KKR bowlers, top order crush Sunrisers
Umesh Yadav’s firstover double-strike loosened the bolts, before Kolkata Knight Riders’ spinners took charge and the wheels truly came off Sunrisers Hyderabad’s chase. Pursuing 168 on a dry Eden Gardens deck, the visitors were 6 for 2, then later slipped to 69 for 6 in the 12th over, as the big shots continued to prove unfruitful, and their running between wickets faltered. They would finish 35 runs adrift, at 132 for 9.
Bradd Hogg and Piyush Chawla were both menacing and miserly through the middle overs, picking 3 for 33 from eight overs between them to lock up the match despite Moises Henriques’ battling 41 from 33, which was the top score in the match.
Perhaps Sunrisers captain David Warner’s first mistake of the evening had been to bowl first on what appeared to be a spin-friendly deck to his counterpart, Gautam Gambhir. After his side had conceded 167 for 7, Warner made another error to see his off stump pegged back by the third legal delivery he faced. Having pulled Yadav for four previous ball, Warner played around a seaming length ball. Three balls later, Naman Ojha made the same mistake, the stump, this time, coming all the way out of the ground.
Pathan over, and another double-strike in the 12th over, went a long way to sealing the result.
Hanuma Vihari ran past a Chawla slider fourth ball, before Bipul Sharma was run out attempting an ambitious second at the end of the over. That left the visitors needing 99 from 48 balls with four wickets in hand, and with Chawla, Yadav and Hogg all continuing to bowl tightly, the requiredrate quickly climbed to unmanageable levels. In all, no boundaries were hit for eight overs in a stretch.
All-round Mumbai continue to surge
Mumbai Indians alternated between brilliance and brain-freeze, and despite inexplicably fiddling with their batting order again, trumped Delhi Daredevils by five wickets and three balls to spare. A large chunk
The attacking mindset worked as Pandya perished soon, top-edging a pull, and he was joined in the dug-out by Parthiv Patel. Mumbai continued to surprise, promoting Harbhajan Singh ahead of Rayudu, and he played one onto the stumps
whippety drives off Mishra and Imran Tahir, knowing their time would come.
Eventually, as they got themselves closer, Rohit brought into play his preferred straight hits more frequently, and after his dismissal, Rayudu and Pollard launched a series of crunchy strikes to damage the bowlers’ confidence irreversibly.
Eoin Morgan’s slow start got worse when, after a moment’s hesitation, he failed to beat Gambir’s throw to the
Knight Riders’ own innings had been somewhat disjointed, with four batsmen hitting thirties, as Sunrisers’ slower bowlers also prospered. Robin Uthappa and Gambhir had put on 57 together before Gambhir holed out to deep midwicket off Karn Sharma’s bowling. Manish Pandey looked the most promising out of the top-order batsmen, finding two big sixes down the ground, before he ran himself out for 33 in the 14th over. Pathan struck four fours in a 19-ball 30 that finished the innings. Karn end-
SCOREBOARD
Kolkata Knight Riders innings (20 overs maximum)
RV Uthappa† c Warner b Sharma 30
G Gambhir* c Morgan b Sharma 31
MK Pandey run out (Bipul Sharma/†Ojha) 33
AD Russell c Morgan b Bipul
Sharma 1
RN ten Doeschate lbw b Henriques 8
YK Pathan not out 30
J Botha b B Kumar 12
SA Yadav c Henriques b B Kumar 6
PP Chawla not out 9
Extras (lb 6, w 1) 7
Total (7 wickets; 20 overs) 167
Did not bat: GB Hogg, UT Yadav
Fall of wickets: 1-57, 2-81, 3-86, 4-105, 5-111, 6-139, 7-145
Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling:
B Kumar 4 0 42 2
DW Steyn 4 0 37 0
P Kumar 1 0 10 0
MC Henriques 3 0 20 1
KV Sharma 4 0 29 2
Bipul Sharma 4 0 23 1
Shikhar Dhawan and Henriques attempted to bash the chase into gear, but at spin’s early introduction, they became more cautious. Dhawan was out when he smoked a Brad Hogg halftracker straight to square leg, but despite that bad ball, Hogg was instrumental in keeping the opposition pinned to their bad start. Yusuf Pathan leaked 19 runs in his solitary over, conceding two sixes and a four to Henriques, but the bowlers around him were economical enough to prevent a Sunrisers surge.
Sunrisers Hyderabad innings (target: 168 runs from 20 overs)
DA Warner* b UT Yadav 4
S Dhawan c Pandey b Hogg 15
NV Ojha† b UT Yadav 0
MC Henriques c Pandey b Hogg 41
EJG Morgan run out (Gambhir/ ten Doeschate) 5
GH Vihari st †Uthappa b Chawla 6
Bipul Sharma run out (ten Doeschate/†Uthappa) 1
KV Sharma c SA Yadav b Botha 32
P Kumar c UT Yadav b Russell 12
B Kumar not out 11
DW Steyn not out 1
Extras (w 4) 4
Total (9 wickets; 20 overs) 132
Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-6, 3-29, 4-55, 5-68, 6-69, 7-81, 8-117, 9-131
Kolkata Knight Riders bowling: UT Yadav 4-0-34-2, AD Russell 2-0-10-1, J Botha 4-0-32-1, GB Hogg 4-0-17-2, YK Pathan 1-019-0, PP Chawla 4-0-16-1, RN ten Doeschate 1-0-4-0.
non-striker’s end, and was out for 5 off 11. The boundaries had dried up after that
ed with 2 for 29, the best figures for Sunrisers. (Cricinfo)
Golden State Warriors’ guard
Curry named NBA MVP
Golden State Warriors guard
Stephen Curry has been named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for 2014-15.
The 27-year-old US international set a record for three-pointers made in a season - the 286 he scored breaking his own 2012-13 record. Curry was the top points scorer, made most assists and steals, and also led the stats for freethrow percentage. The Warriors won the Pacific Division and lead Memphis Grizzlies 1-0 in the play-offs. Curry beat Houston Rockets’ James Harden, Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Russell Westbrook and New Orleans Pelicans’ Anthony Davis to the award. (BBC Sport)
of the credit for their fourth win in a row ought to go to Rohit Sharma and Ambati Rayudu, who raised a 60run stand to resurrect the innings after Daredevils had made a competitive, if not imposing, 152.
When Rohit was bowled by Amit Mishra’s wrong one for 46 off 37 balls, Mumbai still needed 53 off 28 balls. But, Kieron Pollard biffed an unbeaten 26 off 14, while Rayudu, shifting gears in the end, remained a rocksolid presence, staying unbeaten for 40 balls.
Mumbai had to contend with the opponents’ weighty bowling line-up as well as two rain interruptions, even as their own bizarre batting line-up almost did them in. But, after Rohit and Rayudu had turned around a dire situation into one where they had a realistic shout, they closed out the game with ease.
Like Daredevils, Mumbai, too, were a man down by the time the first legal delivery was sent down. Zaheer Khan continued with his good showing, prising out Lendl Simmons in a manner that was reminiscent of his bowling in the early 2000s, a length ball swinging back into the right-handed batsman to pin him in front.
Mumbai countered by sending in Hardik Pandya at No. 3, in sync with their revolving-door batting order this season. With Nathan Coulter-Nile being a bristling presence at the other end, Daredevils captain JP Duminy sniffed the possibility of a few more wickets, and deployed a short-leg for Pandya.
Daredevils had a disruptive rhythm to their innings themselves, losing Mayank Agarwal to a lazy poke off the first ball after opting to bat. Duminy began by pulling Lasith Malinga for a four and then took a liking for Vinay Kumar’s gentle pace, clobbering the ball over midwicket and back over the bowler’s head.
Shreyas Iyer took three fours off a Mitchell McClenaghan over where he was reprieved after J Suchith and Pandya nearly collided with each other. But after adding 43 runs in five overs, Iyer and Duminy were dismissed in successive overs, denting Daredevils’ surge.
Yuvraj scratched around for a while, more eking out runs than plundering them.
SCOREBOARD
Delhi Daredevils innings (20 overs maximum)
MA Agarwal c †Patel b Malinga 0
SS Iyer c Vinay Kumar b Harbhajan Singh 19
JP Duminy* c & b Suchith 28
KM Jadhav† st †Patel b Harbhajan Singh 16
Yuvraj Singh c Simmons b Malinga 57
AD Mathews c Suchith b Pandya 12
SS Tiwary not out 13
NM Coulter-Nile not out 3
Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 1) 4
Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 152
Did not bat: A Mishra, Imran Tahir, Z Khan
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-43, 3-50, 4-78, 5-102, 6-143.
after carting the previous ball over Coulter-Nile’s head. Mumbai had slumped to 40 for 4 by the sixth over, and the players had to head back to the change rooms due to rain only minutes after they had first gone off the field after lightning pierced through the Mumbai sky. As play resumed not long after, Rohit had to keep one eye on the DuckworthLewis scores, and he was duly armed with sheets of paper in his pocket. There was a similarly calculative approach to Rohit and Rayudu’s partnership, as they looked to take the match deep. Mumbai required 92 to win at the halfway mark, but they continued trading in bunts and
Mumbai Indians innings (target: 153 runs from 20 overs)
LMP Simmons lbw b Khan 0 PA Patel† c Mishra b Mathews 13 HH Pandya c Imran Tahir b Coulter-Nile 5 RG Sharma* b Mishra 46 Harbhajan Singh b CoulterNile 5 AT Rayudu not out 49 KA Pollard not out 26
Extras (lb 1, w 8) 9
Total (5 wickets; 19.3 overs) 153 Did not bat: J Suchith, R Vinay Kumar, MJ McClenaghan, SL Malinga Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-8, 3-29, 4-40, 5-100 Delhi Daredevils bowling: Z Khan 4-0-32-1, NM CoulterNile 4-1-30-2, AD Mathews 4-033-1, Yuvraj Singh 1-0-5-0,
He was also constrained in equal parts by the lack of a stable partner at the other end and Harbhajan’s niggardly bowling, which was punctuated with 16 dot balls.
Having rode out the tougher phases, Yuvraj indulged his strengths, lashing Malinga for three fours in one over and smoking back-to-back sixes off McClenaghan in the next. The second of those sixes, a wristy whip condemned to the stands beyond square leg, brought up his fifty, which he celebrated with a flying kiss. Saurabh Tiwary kept Yuvraj company as they ransacked 41 runs in 20 balls, while Daredevils scored 57 runs in their last five overs. (Cricinfo)
Umesh Yadav struck twice in his first over
mbati Rayudu’s unbeaten 49 steered Mumbai Indians home
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Britain’s Andy Murray has won his first clay-court title with a 7-6 (7-4) 5-7 7-6 (7-4) victory over German Philipp Kohlschreiber in the Munich Open final.
It was the 32nd ATP title of the Scot’s career as he prepares for the French Open at the end of the month.
In a rain-interrupted match, the top seed needed just over three hours to beat the world number 24 Kohlschreiber.
“It was a really tough match, he served very close to the line and I was getting frustrated,” said Murray, 27.
He became the first Briton to win an ATPranked event on clay since
Buster Mottram in Palma in April 1976.
Murray, playing in his first tournament since marrying long-term girlfriend
Kim Sears last month, added: “I didn’t realise I was the first Brit to win on clay for so long, so that’s obviously an honour.”
He and Kohlschreiber could meet again in the second round of this week’s Madrid Masters.
The final resumed on Monday after heavy rain stopped play on Sunday evening with Kohlschreiber leading 3-2 in the first set.
Both players confidently held serve to take the
opener into a tie-break, and it was world number three Murray, watched by new coach Jonas Bjorkman, who got the mini-break to snatch the set after almost an hour.
Murray had three break points at 4-3 up in the second set, but Kohlschreiber held his nerve and then broke Murray in the 11th game before serving out to level the match.
There were no breaks in the third set and Murray clinched victory on his second match point in another tiebreak when Kohlschreiber, the winner in Munich in 2007 and 2012, sent a backhand long. (BBC Sport)
Fully fit Woods ready for busier schedule
Following another break from golf, Tiger Woods says he is ready to get back to a busier schedule ahead of the Players Championship.
Tiger Woods insists his wrist is completely healed following his scare at the Masters and that he is ready for a busier schedule ahead of his return at the Players Championship.
The 14-time major champion has not played since ending his previous hiatus at Augusta, where he finished tied for 17th at fiveunder par.
Woods prompted concern by popping a bone in his wrist back into place during the Masters, but he told a pre-tournament press conference at TPC Sawgrass: “It’s fine now.
“I took a full week I didn’t lift at all, I completely got away from lifting and grabbing.
“I was getting treatment
all the way through that period. It was more the swelling, we had to get rid of the swelling and then we could start progressing and building up strength.”
“I’m going to play more tournaments period from here on out. I’m finally healthy enough, I’ve got my body in the shape I have it in, full practice schedule, everything’s full go. Making
my way up from where I’m at is just going to take consistency.”
Speaking about the progress he has made in his game, Woods added: “My short game feels really good, we’ve made a couple little swing tweaks since then to keep improving to keep getting it better. That parts still a little bit fresh.
“I’m happy that I’m now
able to create bottom [in the short game] in any spot I want, I’m able to find it and it doesn’t really matter the lie I’m able to find the bottom, able to use the bounce correctly.
“I’ve made all the big changes, now it’s just incremental changes and keep building, eventually it’ll click in.”
Woods is bidding to become the second man to the win the Players for a third time, but goes into the tournament following the anniversary of the death of his father and the end of his relationship with Lindsey Vonn.
“This time of year is really hard on me, this threeday window is really hard,” Woods said.
“I haven’t slept, these three days May third to the fifth, it’s brutal on me. Obviously what happened on Sunday [with Vonn], it just adds to it.”
Juventus seal fourth straight Serie A title
Juventus clinched their fourth straight Serie A title after a hardfought victory over Sampdoria secured courtesy of Arturo Vidal’s firsthalf header.
The Turin club needed only a point at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium to win their 31st Scudetto but got all three.
Chile midfielder Vidal scored the decisive goal when he met Stephan Lichtsteiner’s cross to head in.
It handed Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri the title in his first season in charge of the club.
Allegri, 47, was appointed Juventus coach last summer after Antonio Conte quit the club a day after his players returned for pre-season.
Conte, now managing the Italian national team, said he left because it “may be more difficult to keep winning with Juventus” in the future.
But ex-Milan boss Allegri has not struggled in his debut season with the Old Lady.
Juve wrapped up the title, ahead of
second-placed Lazio, with four games of the season remaining, having lost just three times in this campaign to date.
Vidal found the net just after the half-hour mark when, unmarked at the back post, he got on the end of Lichtsteiner’s ball from the right and planted a header back across goal and into the net.
Allegri, who also won the Serie A title in his first season in charge of Milan in 2010-11, will now attempt to complete a treble with Juventus in the rest of the campaign.
Juve face European Cup holders Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday, and also play Lazio in the Italian Cup final. (BBC Sport)
John Terry becomes joint highest scoring Premier League defender
Chelsea captain John Terry has become the joint-highest goalscoring defender in Premier League history.
Terry’s goal in the 3-1 win at Leicester on Wednesday
was his 38th - the same number former Everton player David Unsworth managed.
The now retired Unsworth was a regular penalty-taker and free-kick specialist, making 34-year-
old Terry’s feat of catching him even more impressive. Next on the list is former Leeds man Ian Harte who managed 28 goals. However, Harte also took penalties.
Andy Murray celebrates his win
Tiger Woods
Juventus are the first club to win the Serie A title four or more seasons in a row on two separate occasions
The top five Premier League goal scoring defenders: John Terry (38), David Unsworth (38), Ian Harte (28), Leighton Baines (26) and William Gallas (25). (BBC Sport)
Josiah-Tanner wins in Suriname –
Forde beaten
US-based Guyanese distance athlete
Euleen JosiahTanner ran away with the Telesur 10 in Suriname on Friday.
The consistent athlete clocked a winning time of 39:38s to finish ahead of fellow Guyanese Andrea Foster and Alika Morgan who crossed the finish line in that order with times of
40:23s and 42:06s respectively.
“The race was OK, it was extremely windy and hot and I was hoping to get a better time, but since I am recovering from a marathon about three weeks ago, the 10k leg speed was not there,” Josiah-Tanner noted.
Meanwhile, Cleveland Forde finished surprisingly in second place, clock-
ing 32:53s to finish behind Rupert Green of Jamaica who won the event in a time of 31:26s. Cleveland Thomas was third in 33:17s while Trinidad-based Guyanese Kelvin Johnson finished fourth with a time of 34:02s.
Josiah-Tanner is expected to be in Suriname again on May 16 for the second leg of the event. (Treiston Joseph)
Quarter-finals in iNet Communications football this weekend
Competitive rivalry is expected to be intensified this weekend in the inaugural iNet Communications Under-13 Football Competition, organised by the Fruta Conquerors Football Club for teams in Georgetown.
The four quarter-final games are slated for Saturday at the Tucville Ground, with two games being played simultaneously. At 14:00h, hosts Fruta Conquerors will challenge Fruta Conquerors A,
while, at the same time, Renaissance will tackle Order and Discipline.
At 15:00h, the last two games will be played with Western Tigers taking on Camptown, and Santos colliding with Beacon.
The winning teams will advance to Sunday’s semi-finals, with the grand final set to take place on Saturday, May 16 at the same venue.
Fruta Conquerors Football Club Secretary Daniel Thomas said the competition has been able to
unearth numerous talents in the Georgetown area and those will be developed at the club level to ensure continuity.
Thomas is urging parents of the players and football fans to come out in their numbers and witness the future of Georgetown football in action. He also expressed gratitude to iNet Communications for investing in the Under-13s, noting that it was money well spent.
Williams beats Stephens at Madrid Open
orld number one
WSerena Williams extended her winning streak to 25 matches as she beat Sloane Stephens in the second round of the Madrid Open.
Williams, 33, saw off her fellow American 6-4 6-0 to rack up her 25th win stretching back to last season and take her record for 2015 to 22-0.
The top seed will next play Victoria Azarenka or Ajla Tomljanovic.
Fifth seed Caroline Wozniacki and ninth seed Agnieszka Radwanska both won to set up a third-round meeting.
Denmark’s Wozniacki beat Christina McHale of the United States 7-5 6-0, while Pole Radwanska defeated Australian Casey Dellacqua 6-2 6-1.
“We grew up playing together,” Wozniacki told the WTA.
“We’ve known each other since we were both eight years old. There are no secrets out there - we practise
together all the time, and we play against each other a lot too.”
Williams took her record against Stephens to 4-1 and said: “She’s such a tough player - I’ve never won a 6-0 set against her before, and I don’t think I can ever do that again!
“But today I thought to myself, ‘Wow, this is one of
the reasons I love this surface.’ It just gives you so many chances to get in the point and play yourself into the match. “I really love playing on the clay.”
In the men’s draw, Spanish 11th seed Feliciano Lopez and Americans John Isner, Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson all progressed. (BBC Sport)
Euleen Josiah-Tanner
Cleveland Forde
The iNet Communications Under-13 Tournament has attracted the next generation of footballers of Georgetown
Serena Williams
Regal, Floodlight crowned GSCL Independence Cup champs
Regal demoralised Shuttle Max by 104 runs to win the Open final of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL Inc) Independence Cup on Sunday at the Everest Cricket Club.
Navin Singh cracked 34 (5x4s), while Kawson Joseph made 26 (3x4s, 1x6) and Randy Budhu 22 (3x4s) as Regal posted a respectable 184-9 in 20 overs, batting first in front of a fairsize crowd. Daynanand Singh captured 4-24; Kelvin Olford, 2-22; and Devendra Deosarran, 2-22. Shuttle Max were sent packing for 80 in 11.4 overs in reply.
Ravendra Ramnauth made 18 (2x6s) and Randy Katwaroo 14 (1x4). Delroy Perreira bagged 4-10; Richard Latiff, 2-23; and Budhu 2-24.
Perreira was named the Man of the Match, while Regal pocketed a trophy and $75,000 and Shuttle Max a trophy and $35,000.
Floodlight overcame Industry Super Kings by 40 runs in the Over-40 fi-
nal. Batting first, Floodlight scored 159-8 in 20 overs.
Ramesh Narine led with 50 (3x4s, 1x6); Wayne Jones got 27 (1x4, 2x6s) and Richard Persaud 24, (1x4). Robert Mohan and Pooran Singh picked up three wickets each. Industry Super Kings were bowled out for 119 in 19.2 overs.
Robin Singh cracked 40 (3x4s, 2x6s); Jagdesh Persaud 19 (2x4s, 1x6); and Ramo Malone, 16. Floodlight received a trophy and $100,000 and Industry, a trophy and $40,000.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Vice President of the GSCL Inc, Ian John, congratulated the teams, adding that bigger plans are ahead for the sport.
One minute of silence was observed for the late Sport Journalist Calvin Roberts before the finals. The competition was sponsored by Clique Tech, Trophy Stall, Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop, and Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.
Blackwood the biggest mover in ICC rankings
West Indies middle order batsman Jermaine Blackwood has emerged as the biggest mover in the latest Reliance ICC Player Rankings on the strength of impressive batting in the just ended series against England in the Caribbean.
Blackwood has soared 31 places to a career-high 37th spot after scores of 85 and 47 which helped West Indies to win the third test by five wickets and square the series one game apiece on Sunday.
The Jamaican batsman, who scored his maiden test century during the series, enjoyed a match-winning 108-run fifth wicket partnership with Darren Bravo whose second innings contribution of 82 has put him up
three places to 29th. Meantime there were major gains for three West Indies bowlers-Jerome Taylor, Shannon Gabriel and Jason Holder.
Taylor has moved up 13 places to 36th after claiming match figures of six for 69 and Gabriel’s match tally of three for 63 has vaulted him seven places.
But the biggest mover is Holder whose five for 49 in the match has launched him 30 places to a career-high 51st position.
The West Indies remain in 8th position in the team rankings but have gained three points from their victory over England and as a result have reduced the gap with seventh-placed India to 14 points. (CMC)
Members of the successful Regal team pose with their trophies
Jermaine Blackwood
Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Linden leg... Amelia’s Ward Russians crowned champions
Amelia’s Ward Russians walked away as the top futsal team in Linden when Guyana’s most prestigious futsal tournament – the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Linden edition cul-
minated on Monday evening. The game entertained the large crowd in attendance with a number of shots at goal that sometimes whizzed past the goal post into the crowd.
However, it was Shawn Daniels who scored the game’s first goal for the Russians in the ninth minute to end the first half 1-0.
Randy Wills would equalise in the 25th minute to put
Sport Journalist Calvin Roberts to
be laid to rest
today
Guyana Chronicle’s Sport Journalist Calvin Roberts will be laid to rest today, following tributes and a funeral service in Georgetown. According to information reaching this publication, there will be a public viewing at the Merriman’s Funeral Home at Lime and
Bent Streets from 10:30h to 11:30h, followed by tributes at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation Sports Club Ground on Woolford Avenue from 12:30h to 14:30h. This will be followed by the funeral service and final viewing, thence to Le Repentir Cemetery for burial at 16:30h.
Roberts took his last breath last Tuesday evening while a patient at the Davis Memorial Hospital in Georgetown, after months of battling renal failure.
At the time of his passing, Roberts, 43, who had captained the Guyana Media XI cricket team on many occasions, was attached to the Guyana Chronicle newspaper as a Senior Reporter and Assistant Sport Editor. He previously worked for the Stabroek News.
Roberts was diagnosed with the condition on January 15 this year by Dr Clem McEwan, and subsequently required dialysis three times per week. Roberts died during an emergency operation Tuesday night.
Roberts, who was rewarded by the Guyana Cricket Board and the National Sports Commission for his contribution to sports, played competitive cricket for Ace Warriors and Malteenoes Sports Club.
the teams on level scores, as the pace quickened in search of a winning goal in the last five minutes of the game that had the fans of both teams clamouring for a winning goal.
Terrence Aaron rocked
the goal in the 29th minute to seal the deal for the Russians to end the game in dramatic fashion.
Meanwhile, in the thirdplace game between Retrieve Unknowns and Star Boyz, both teams were disqualified after a scuffle on the pitch. The score at the time of stoppage had Retrieve Unknown leading 3-0. Main Street Panthers were awarded third place, while Hard-Knocks received the fourth-place prize.
No bad blood between Bolt, Gay
Despite Usain Bolt’s strong criticism of Tyson Gay for the perceived relative slap on the wrist he received after a doping offence, the American sprinter holds no ill will.
During a press conference after Gay helped the United States to a 4x100-metre relay win over Jamaica in Nassau, Bahamas, the American responded to Bolt.
“That his opinion and I will respect his opinion, and that’s the way it is,” said Gay. The sprinter also apolo-
gised for whatever implications his actions may have had on the sport, but said his adverse analytic finding was a mistake rather than a deliberate attempt at cheating and that the organisations governing the sport understood that.
In a bid to fuel a possible fire, journalists asked if Bolt’s comments had any impact on Gay or Team USA’s performance in the World Relays event on Saturday night.
Bolt had said Tyson’s oneyear backdated ban “... sends the wrong message: If you do
it and get caught, just tell us all you know and we’ll lower your ban”. For Bolt, the message should have been “ If you cheat, you’re going to be kicked out of the sport”.
Tyson responded to the media by saying: “A victory always feels good. It felt good getting the victory here. Besides that, the past is the past. I ask for forgiveness, but right now I’m moving forward, I check everything thoroughly and we go from there.” (Digicel SportsMax)
The winning Amelia’s Ward Russians after receiving their trophy
Some of the action during the final. saved as Guinness action
Calvin Roberts
Tyson Gay (left) and Usain Bolt during one of their races
