Guyana Times Daily by Gytimes

NEW GPC INC pours cold water on KN spy report

P14

andela M dies at 95

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1974 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, December 6, 2013

PRICE

$60 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Fogartyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selling building not business â&#x20AC;&#x201C; chairman

P10 Guyana secures US$16.9M IDB loan to advance LCDS

See stories and photos on pages 6,7 and 18

APNU tables motion for reduction P10 of Berbice bridge toll Digicel launches Christmas promotion

Nelson Mandela 1918-2013

Ramotar challenges corruption report on Guyana

P14

P15

friDay, december 6, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

News

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Friday, December 6 from 05:30h to 07:00h. The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Friday, December 6 from 06:35h to 08:05h.

WEATHER TODAY Countrywide: Thundery showers can be expected during the day with heavy rain showers in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius. Wind: East north easterly ranging between 1.66 and 1.94 metres per second.

High Tide: 06:46h and 19:03h reaching maximum heights of 2.62 metres and 2.70 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 12:35h reaching a minimum height of 0.63 metre.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS E

04 12

24 27

FREE TICKET

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Daily Millions

LUCKY 3

Draw De Line

07 08 11

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

friDay, december 6, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

CDB plugs diversification of Guyanese economy By Svetlana Marshall

uyana must reduce its dependency on the extractive industries and accelerate its economic diversification strategy, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Director of Economics, Dr Justin Ram said during an address to business leaders and politicians Wednesday night. The occasion was the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) 124th Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. Ram said Georgetown’s concentration on the extractive industries of agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining, and quarrying for primarily low value-added, natural resource-based products for export leaves the nation’s economy vulnerable to the “Dutch Disease” (the apparent relationship between the increase in exploitation of natural resources and a decline in the manufacturing sector). Acknowledging the fact that some resources exported are depleteable, the CDB economist said it was only wise for Guyana to establish a “Sovereign Wealth Fund” to effectively manage its windfalls from the extractive industries and simultaneously strengthen its platform for economic diversification. “Such resources could be used to underwrite the types of investments and reforms that are necessary to facilitate economic diversification away from natural resourcebased products and into

CDB Director of Economics, Dr Justin Ram delivering the feature address at GCCI’s 124th Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony

higher value-added goods and services,” he explained, noting that CDC stands willing to assist. However, he emphasised the importance of a stronger governmentprivate sector relationship to build consensus on the priority agenda going forward. But in a quest to facilitate this change – closing the infrastructure gap, building capacity and strengthening institutions must remain on top of the agenda. According to Dr Ram, Guyana has made significant strides in these areas, it must address key problems affecting the private sector to accelerate competitiveness. Restricted access and high cost of credit for the retooling of manufacturing plants, the absence of research and development, and training facilities for the manufacturing

sector, and the acute scarcity of managerial capacity and skilled labour owing to migration are issues still on the table to be addressed.

High cost of energy

High-cost unreliable power supply, coupled with high taxes on production, must be addressed, Dr Ram added, stressing that the issues are affecting Guyana’s ability to compete internationally. “The 2013-2014 Global Competiveness Report ranked Guyana 102nd out of 148 in respect of international competitiveness. The results of these and other

diagnostic and benchmarking exercises suggest that the reform and policy agenda needs to continue apace.” Guyana must move away from an economy driven by basic factors of production to one that is grounded in efficiency through continuous emphasis on higher education, improved technological readiness and financial markets development. The CDB is currently helping Guyana to tackle some competitiveness issues through the Caribbean Technological Consultancy Services (CTCS) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiatives. Additionally, the bank is providing the requisite assistance for the initiation of new and innovative programmes in the area of renewable energy/energy efficiency and climate financing. “Already a fund can be used for support to the private sector to ensure their readiness for the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) and implementation of the CARIFORMEU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA),” the CDB economist said, as he painted a vivid picture of the regional financial institution’s input into Guyana’s development. Turn to page 9

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 6, 2013

Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Disability and development

orld Disability Day, which was observed on December 3 under the theme, “Break Barriers, Open Doors: for an inclusive society and development for all”, seeks to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. This year’s observances are particularly important as countries prepare to shape the next development agenda that will follow the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) after their 2015 target date. To mark the day, the United Nations (UN) issued an urgent call for global efforts to ensure that the more than one billion people worldwide who live with some form of disability can reap the benefits of development and fully participate in society. For this to happen, the UN says, it is necessary that we remove all barriers that affect the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in society, including through changing attitudes that fuel stigma and institutionalise discrimination. People with disabilities have generally poorer health, lower educational achievements, fewer economic opportunities and higher rates of poverty than people without disabilities. This is largely due to the lack of services available to them and the many obstacles they face in their everyday lives. It is no surprise that children with disabilities are almost four times more likely to experience violence than non-disabled children, according to a systematic review published in the medical journal “The Lancet” in July 2012. The World Health Organisation (WHO) makes mention of another systematic review on violence against adults with disabilities, published earlier this year, which found that, overall, adults are 1.5 times more likely to be a victim of violence than those without a disability, while those persons with mental health conditions are at nearly four times the risk of experiencing violence. Further, the 2011 World Disability Report estimated the number of children with disabilities at 5.1 per cent of the population. These are the ones more than likely to be at a disadvantage where educational opportunities are concerned. For example, while we here in Guyana can boast of a good track record in relation to providing quality education for persons, irrespective of geographic location, race, religion, gender, or social status, there is still much work to be done to ensure that persons with disabilities have an equal opportunity to acquire an education. At the moment, there are very few teachers in the school system equipped with the necessary skills to impart knowledge to persons with disabilities. Of note too is that the majority of our public schools do not have the necessary facilities to cater for such persons. Notwithstanding that, we are encouraged that the Education Ministry has announced it is in the process of rolling out a plan for improving and expanding quality education to special needs children here. Such a plan is long overdue. We urge all stakeholders here, including political parties and the international development partners, to continue supporting policies that would realise all children’s right to quality education as one way to reduce inequities created by social exclusion. Certainly, when persons with disabilities are given a chance of acquiring a good education or taught a skill, they are in a better position to secure a job and in turn break the cycle of poverty that normally defines such situations. In a more general sense, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is necessary for countries not only to adopt but to implement fully because it is a tool for ensuring that people with disabilities have access to the same rights and opportunities as everybody else. As explained by WHO, rather than considering disability as an issue of medicine, charity or dependency, the convention challenges people worldwide to understand disability as a human rights issue. The convention covers many areas where obstacles can arise, such as physical access to buildings, roads and transportation, and access to information through written and electronic communications. It also aims to reduce stigma and discrimination, which are often reasons why people with disabilities are excluded from education, employment, and health and other services.

President Donald Ramotar; CDB economist, Dr Justin Ram; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Kit Nascimento flanked by the awardees, other members of the private sector, and other officials

Kaieteur News scores again at the expense of Guyanese youth Dear Editor, For how long will the youths of Guyana remain silent and allow the Kaieteur News and its opposition elements to continue to deny them a prosperous future? Kaieteur News has once again, through its deliberate distortions and outright lies, caused another major private investment project by one of Guyana’s leading and innovative private sector companies to shelve a major investment in Guyana. What makes this proposed investment stand out is that its beneficiaries would have been exclusively the youths and the two most popular sports in Guyana –

cricket and football. What is even more stunning is that the proposed investor has proven its worth and dedication to the development of sport, not only in Guyana but also in the Caribbean. It has been credited with bringing back the sting, excitement, professionalism and economic viability into Caribbean cricket. You would recall the loads and loads of garbage that were thrown by the Kaieteur News on the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 cricket in a desperate attempt to make it a failure. But as faith would have it, even Glenn Lall is suspected to have enjoyed it from begin-

ning to end. More so, every commentator, without exception, accepted that the Limacol CPL 2013 tournament was the best and most successful cricket tournament the Caribbean has had in almost 20 years. Who was responsible for this? What amazes me is that a large part of our supposedly intelligent public seems to have a great appetite for garbage as if it is some sort of delicacy. They feast on it daily, poisoning their body and mind, destroying their future with the false belief that they are building themselves a bright future. Come on young people, it is time you get real. You

don’t need a better example of how the Kaieteur News and its opposition elements, out of pure vindictiveness and total disregard for your welfare, are denying you a prosperous future. Who would have been the primary beneficiaries of a total transformation of the Bourda ground? The answer is staring you in the face. Face it. Can’t our youths see that Lall is raking in millions while destroying their future with their own hands? He has made enough millions to last him many generations. How much have you made? Yours faithfully, Sundar Nauth

Government should not be blamed for domestic violence

Dear Editor, The members of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) are slowly validating my belief of them always wanting to lay blame at the feet of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). The PPP/C has feverishly been addressing matters of violence against women over the years. It is disrespectful and absurd for the APNU to suggest that the PPP/C should now address the issue of countering violence against women, particularly since it has been at the forefront of this scourge. I wish to bring to the attention of the APNU and

further chastise them that countries all around the world, including the highly developed United States of America encounter matters of violence against women. Statistics show that more than 22 million women in the United States have been raped in their lifetime; 18.3 per cent of those women have survived a completed or attempted rape, 12.3 per cent were younger than age 12 when they were first raped, and 29.9 per cent were between the ages of 11 and 17. Additionally, studies reveal that every two minutes, somewhere in America, someone is being

sexually assaulted, but no one makes the accusation that it is President Barack Obama who is responsible for these incidents. In Guyana, many families are fatherless, simply because the man chooses to live an irresponsible lifestyle, which often results in some women having to bear the burden of providing for their children on their own. The relevant authorities in Guyana need to enforce child support laws that will require men to provide for their offspring regardless of the relationship that they shares with the mothers of their children. Implementing

these laws will further ensure that some form of fairness is delivered to women. Government cannot be held accountable for the irresponsible behaviour of every Guyanese man. Additionally, in order to develop a national action plan that will provide educational and enforcement initiatives to eliminate this plight of violence against women, we must first identify the perpetuators. I wish the members of APNU all the best in their grand venture to gather this vital evidence. Sincerely, Abe Nicholson

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 6, 2013

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

British High Commissioner Stop the blame game and prevent the responds to Guyana Times flooding in Region Two article

Dear Editor, I read with interest an article by Michael Younge in the December 5 edition of the Guyana Times. At no point have I said that the UK would pull funding from Guyana based on the perception of corruption. In my speech of November 22, I did not mention Guyana nor did I mention pulling funding. What I said was: “the

appetite of taxpayers in developed countries to commit to development – spend in jurisdictions with high perceived rates of corruption has waned. Faced with cuts in services at home, many are asking why money should be spent abroad when corruption reduces the net benefit in some cases close to zero”. I should therefore be

grateful if you would publish this letter in your newspaper in order to correct the mistakes made in Younge’s article and any misperceptions your readers might have following his erroneous statement. Yours sincerely, Andrew Ayre British High Commissioner

Accusations in the name of politics do much damage to Guyana Dear Editor, I have seen a letter from Hamley Case in the Kaieteur News in which his main point seems to be “that the government’s objective is to make the rich richer and leave the poor exactly where they were in 1992”. The government is perfectly capable of responding to this accusation. He then makes the quantum leap to argue, without providing a scintilla of evidence, that major government development projects somehow reinforces this objective and concludes that “the Marriott Hotel project is the most blatant of the lot”. Case is a responsible and successful business-

man and probably can be counted amongst the rich, but how in heaven’s name does he come to the conclusion that the building of the Marriott Hotel, under direct Marriott supervision, built to Marriott requirements and largely financed by a loan arrangement organised and managed by Republic Bank, probably the most respected bank in the Caribbean, is going to make the rich richer and, by implication, the poor poorer?

It’s precisely this sort of throwaway, undocumented, accusatory nonsense, in the name of politics from otherwise responsible people that does so much damage to our country and, in fact, restricts development and keeps our country poor. Yours sincerely, Richard Paul

Dear Editor, The regional administration in Region Two and the Anna Regina Town Council should be held accountable for the flooding of the township, the Anna Regina Multilateral School, businesses, and people’s properties and public buildings, including the Anna Regina Police Station and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) compound. There should be no finger pointing and excuses – all the irrigation regulators along the main canal conservancy of the Tapakuma irrigation scheme were left open by the drainage and irrigation staff, discharging water into the housing areas when the flash flood came. The only pump at Anna Regina was out of fuel and no koker operating staff was on the job at the time, neither could any be found to open the sluice door to avoid the flooding of the township. I was reliably informed by certain party representatives and officials of the regional administration of Region Two that two drums of fuel were requested by a pump operator days before the flash flood, and they were lying in the operation and maintenance compound awaiting trans-

portation – a stone’s throw away from the pump. When the residents saw that the water was raising into their yards and businesses, they went to the koker and the pump to see if they were in operation and found that none was in operation as the water kept rising quickly. A pump operator and some fishermen then reportedly broke the koker door to release the water out from the land. At that point, the residents then decided to roll the two drums of fuel manually from the operation and maintenance compound, where it was lying for days, to the pump, some 100 yards away from the location. This operation was not successful because no one was there to issue more fuel until the next day and, by that time, the damage was already done in the entire township. One week before the flash flood, there was heavy rainfall and businesses were flooded, causing damage to television sets and other electrical appliances. I called the regional administration and informed staff about the businesses and yards in Cotton Field being flooded, but I was told it was

the town council’s fault. I then called the town council and advised staff about what was happening in our village. I was told that the council has one backhoe, which was out of order for years for a fuel pump and maintenance and that there is nothing she nor the council can do to avoid the flooding in the township. As I travelled through the township, I saw all the main trenches and internal drains leading to the kokers clogged for decades without being cleaned or maintained to avoid flooding. As I travelled further outside of the township, the canals and trenches alongside the main public road is clogged with antelope grass as high as a tree. These trenches and internal drains were not cleaned for decades, especially in the Marias Delight and New Road areas. The regional administration and the town council must stop the blame game and get on with the job they were elected to do by the people. We are defined by what we pass on to the next generation. Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

6news

friday, december 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ramotar hails Mandela Farmer dies after being pinned by tractor as human rights giant P

resident Donald Ramotar has hailed the late South African leader Nelson Mandela as a giant in the defence of human rights, saying the passing of the world leader has impoverished the globe. “On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Guyana and on my own behalf, I express sincere condolences on the passing of former President Nelson Mandela,” Ramotar said in a statement Thursday evening. He said the loss was not just one for the people of South Africa, but for Africa as a whole, and the world at large. “Nelson Mandela was a giant in defence of human rights and for a free and just society, not only for his beloved South Africans, but for the oppressed the world over. The world is much poorer after his passing for he was one of the most outstanding statesmen of all time,” the Guyanese leader said. According to him, the struggle Mandela led with other distinguished antiapartheid fighters has entered into the annals of world history as one of the most defining periods in our world. However, it was not only the struggle but the manner in which it was conducted which will always remain an example and an inspiration for others working for social and economic justice everywhere. “He was truly the father of his nation, tirelessly devoting his life to serving the people of South Africa with humility and dignity in

President Donald Ramotar

leadership, and an unwavering commitment to preserving that hard-won unity and the pride of liberation,” Ramotar said. Highly loved and respected the world over, Mandela will forever be cherished, Ramotar added, noting that for Guyana, this is particularly so, as “we recall the strength of character which he continually displayed during those long, dark years of incarceration, a grave injustice. As we mourn now with South Africa, we rejoiced then, when he won his freedom and took his rightful place as leader of his country.” The president said Mandela’s name and work will endure throughout the ages. “I have asked that the President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma convey our sympathy to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time.” For its part, the main opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said it notes the passing of Mandela, “an icon in the

struggle for peace and justice, a leader whose transformative life became a symbol of resistance and triumph over racial segregation and all forms of institutionalised apartheid.” APNU said Mandela never wavered in his devotion to democracy, equality, and learning. “Despite terrible provocation, he chose forgiveness instead of hate. His life has been and will continue to be an inspiration to all, who are oppressed and deprived, to all who are opposed to oppression and deprivation around the world.” Meanwhile, the Alliance For Change said most of the world mourns the passing of a truly great leader, noting that few men of his kind have walked this earth. “A fountain of inspiration to millions across the world, Nelson Mandela became the ultimate symbol of forgiveness and reconciliation. After quarter of a century imprisoned by the racist “Apartheid” system in South Africa, Mandela walked free choosing to reject hatred, revenge and bitter memories for the sake of unifying South Africa for the benefit of all.” According to the AFC with humility and the highest moral integrity he went on to inspire the world. “These are the quality of a great leader. May we all take from this exemplary life the great lessons of tolerance, engagement, justice, equality, reconciliation and hope. The Alliance For Change extends deepest sympathies to his family and the people of South Africa. Farewell Madiba.”

The tractor that pinned Sukhdeo on Thursday morning

oments after leaving his home for the family farm on Thursday morning, a man died after being pinned by a tractor at Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara. The lifeless body of 24-year-old cash crop farmer Tameshwar Sukhdeo, also called Kevin, of Granny Field, Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, was pulled from under the tractor some 30 minutes after it slipped from a muddy dam into a drainage canal. From all indications, the man may have drowned, since he was submerged in the water before his body was actually retrieved. He was reportedly lying on his face with one of his arms in the air as though he was sig-

nalling for help A friend, Imtiaz Fiuse, was there at the time of the accident, but there was nothing that the friend could have done to save the young man. Fiuse, who was being treated at the Cane Grove Health Centre, told Guyana Times that he was accompanying his friend to pick ochroes. He added that as they were travelling into the backdam on the tractor, Sukhdeo encountered mechanical problems which resulted in him losing control of the vehicle, which skidded off a muddy dam. He said as the 135 Massy Ferguson tractor tilted, he jumped to safety and encouraged his friend to do the same. Sukhdeo reportedly

Dead farmer, Tameshwar “Kevin” Sukhdeo

jumped but not far enough. The friend stated that after the young man jumped he fell into the trench and the tractor went in after him, pinning him in the process. Fiuse said he screamed for help but it took more than 30 minutes to pull Sukhdeo from under the vehicle. By the time they pulled him out, he was already dead. At the home of the dead man, his father, Karran Sukhdeo, who was in a state of shock, related that he and his son left home about 07:00h but they went their separate ways. He said about 08:30h, a friend informed him of the accident and urged him to go to the scene at once. He took about 30 minutes to arrive, by which time he saw his son’s motionless body lying on the road. In tears, he stated that at that point in time, he knew that his son was no more. He said his son graduated from secondary school but chose to work on the farm rather than working for $30,000 from a government ministry. He also noted that his son spent some time in Trinidad, but returned to assist on the farm. Sukhdeo leaves to mourn his parents and one sister. His body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Home to await a post-mortem today.

news

friday, december 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Global icon Mandela dies

Nelson Mandela

outh African antiapartheid hero Nelson Mandela died aged 95 at his Johannesburg home on Thursday after a prolonged lung infection, plunging his nation and the world into mourning for a man hailed by global leaders as a moral giant. Although Mandela had been frail and ailing for nearly a year, South African President Jacob Zuma’s announcement late on Thursday of the death of the former president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate shook South Africa. Tributes began flooding in almost immediately for a man who was an iconic global symbol of struggle against injustice and of racial reconciliation. U.S. President Barack Obama said the world had lost “one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth”. British Prime Minister David

Cameron called Mandela “a hero of our time” and said “a great light has gone out in the world”. Ordinary South Africans were in shock. “It feels like it’s my father who has died. He was such a good man, who had good values the nation could look up to. He was a role model unlike our leaders of today,” said Annah Khokhozela, 37, a nanny, speaking in Johannesburg A sombre Zuma made a national broadcast to announce the death of South Africa’s first black president, who emerged from 27 years in apartheid prisons to help guide Africa’s biggest economy through bloodshed and turmoil to democracy. “Fellow South Africans, our beloved Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the founding president of our democratic nation, has departed,” Zuma said in the nationally televised address.

“Giant for justice”

“Our people have lost a father. Although we knew this day was going to come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss. His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, passion and humanity, earned him their love,” he added. Mandela would receive a full state funeral, Zuma said,

ordering flags to be flown at half mast. The United Nations Security Council was in session when the ambassadors received the news of Mandela’s death. They stopped their meeting and stood for a minute’s silence. “Nelson Mandela was a giant for justice and a downto-earth human inspiration,” UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon told reporters. “Nelson Mandela showed what is possible for our world and within each one of us if we believe, dream, and work together for justice and humanity.” Obama, the first black American president, described Mandela as an inspiration: “Like so many around the globe, I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set, and so long as I live I will do what I can to learn from him,” he said in a televised address at the White House shortly after the announcement of Mandela’s death. “A free South Africa at peace with itself – that’s an example to the world, and that’s Madiba’s legacy to the nation he loved. Mandela rose from rural obscurity to challenge the might of white minority apartheid government – a struggle that gave the 20th century one of its most respected and loved figures. He was among the first

Nelson and Winnie Mandela raise their fists to salute a cheering crowd upon his 1990 release from Victor Verster Prison. He was still as upright and proud, he would say, as the day he walked into prison 27 years before

to advocate armed resistance to apartheid in 1960, but was quick to preach reconciliation and forgiveness when the country’s white minority began easing its grip on power 30 years later. He was elected president in landmark all-race elections in 1994 and retired in 1999.”

Political prisoner

South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) party said the country and the world had lost “a colossus”. “His life gives us the courage to push forward for development and progress towards ending

hunger and poverty,” it said in a statement. Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, an honour he shared with FW de Klerk, the white Afrikaner leader who released from jail arguably the world’s most famous political prisoner. As president, Mandela faced the monumental task of forging a new nation from the deep racial injustices left over from the apartheid era, making reconciliation the theme of his time in office. The hallmark of Mandela’s mission was the

Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which probed apartheid crimes on both sides of the struggle and tried to heal the country’s wounds. It also provided a model for other countries torn by civil strife. In 1999, Mandela handed over power to younger leaders better equipped to manage a modern economy – a rare voluntary departure from power cited as an example to African leaders. In retirement, he shifted his energies to battling South Africa’s AIDS crisis, a struggle that became personal when he lost his only surviving son to the disease in 2005. Mandela’s last major appearance on the global stage came in 2010 when he attended the championship match of the football World Cup, where he received a thunderous ovation from the 90,000 at the stadium in Soweto, the neighbourhood in which he cut his teeth as a resistance leader. Charged with capital offences in the infamous 1963 Rivonia Trial, his statement from the dock was his political testimony. “During my lifetime, I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination.” (Reuters)

8 news

friday, december 6, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

Eyew tness Perceptions and… ...mud slinging iccolò Machiavelli always pointed out that you’ve got to use any means necessary to seize and keep power. Political power. Kwame Nkrumah once stated the dictum rather succinctly – seek ye the political kingdom, and all else will be added unto it. If you don’t have power, all the fancy things spouted from platforms and speeches were just so much hot air. His local disciple, Forbes Burnham followed his advice to a tee... and his followers haven’t strayed from their master’s line. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), on the other hand, has always appeared to place their faith on “doing the right thing” for the people...and power will come unto them. Take this problem of perception that’s been dogging them for some time now...perception of inefficiency...perception of corruption...and so on. We can start with the last one...seeing that Transparency International (TI) just announced its global “corruption index” and plunked Guyana, once again, way down the totem pole. Now, TI itself admits that what they’re reporting on is a “perception” of corruption and we all know perception is a very subjective thing. It’s like the famous quotation on food. “De gustibus non est disputandem” ....there can be no real dispute on taste. Everybody and their uncle will have their own opinion. The problem arises when the opinions of only one set of people are solicited to announce what’s the “perception” of the food in question...or in this case, the level of corruption in Guyana. The fellas in the local chapter of TI are all from the opposition camp... every man jack! It’s like asking a paedophile whether they should be in charge of teaching children. Of course, the local TI will announce to its partner abroad that corruption is rampant here in Guyana. This is not fortuitous. Unlike the PPP/C, the People’s National Congress (PNC) acolytes in the opposition understand that while the electoral road to power is closed off (their one-seat majority notwithstanding!) because of the populace’s distrust of them, they can infiltrate Western-based nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) like TI that want to control us from behind the curtains. The local and foreign interests coincide when it comes to the PPP/C – TI still lumps them as “leftist” because they’re pro-people. As we and countless others have demanded – why doesn’t TI announce what’re the actual “facts” it has uncovered that’s led to the “perception” it crows about. It can’t– for the simple reason it can’t. No one is saying that Guyana doesn’t have corruption – no country can say that. President Donald Ramotar has acknowledged the presence of corruption. What we’ll break a lance over is the claim that we’re one of the most corrupt countries around.

...ignorance As you, Dear Readers, know, your humble Eyewitness faithfully peruses the dailies. It’s his job. He doesn’t hold any great expectations for the MuckrakerKN for any journalistic ideals, much less standards. But at least he thought they’d understand the basic English language. But then, selling shallots in Stabroek Market doesn’t need a facility beyond, “Check it out! Check it out!”, does it? Anyhow, the MuckrakerKN claims this paper was “spying” on it! How does one “spy” on a rag that claims to be the “largest selling daily”. We know most of its contents are fabricated, but are they secret? Or is it that they never really had the circulation they tout? The only other reason anyone would look at back issues of the MuckrakerKN is because they’ve used the old copies for the job they’re most suitable for: wiping one’s a55! ...qualifications The Local Government Ministry has mud all over its face. In its crafting of the “qualifications” for the job of town clerk, it forgot the most important one – EXPERIENCE!!! What’s with all the schools attended and degrees earned? What’s ever trumped the school of hard knocks. And God knows Sooba has gotten enough (hard) knocks from Mayor Green and the City Council!

news

friday, december 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Probe launched into death of Canje Fogarty’s selling building not man after surgery at NA hospital business – chairman T A

he Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA) has launched an investigation into the death of 28-year-old Suresh Latchman of Canefield Settlement, East Canje, Berbice who died at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Thursday following surgery at the New Amsterdam Hospital. According to reports, the deceased who suffered from goitre was initially a patient of the New Amsterdam Hospital, and on Thursday, November 28, he underwent elective surgery for hypothyroid goitre which proved successful, according to sources Latchman came out of the recovery room fully conscious, and oriented with no complications. However, in the wee hours of last Friday, he collapsed. He was stabilised and transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, since he needed ventilator support which the New Amsterdam Hospital was not equipped with. One of Latchman’s broth-

patient took it upon himself to go in search of the nurses who were supposed to be on duty, but they were all allegedly asleep and when awakened became very disgruntled.

Neglect

BRHA Public Relations Officer Michael Itwaru

ers told this publication that it was disclosed to his family by a fellow patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital that his sibling needed attention and no nurse was available to administer to him. They were told that his brother was coughing and had trouble breathing, and it was apparent that he was in a serious state. Since no assistance from the nurses was forthcoming, the fellow

The family of the deceased is alleging that the death of their loved one was mainly caused by the nurses’ neglect. “The after services at the New Amsterdam Hospital were poor and left much to be desired: no nurse was available to assist him when he needed them,” the brother angrily said. He is also of the view that stricter rules should be implemented at the hospitals regarding nurses, as their attitude is unsatisfactory and unprofessional. According to records from the BRHA, 333 surgeries were performed at the New Amsterdam Hospital over the past five months – all highly successful with the only mortality being that of the 28-year-old.

CDB plugs diversification... Meanwhile, GCCI President Clinton Urling said, “As the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry heads into its 125th year of existence…we stand on the shoulders of giants and we drink from the wells of opportunity that we did not dig.” Urling was paying homage to influential individuals, organisations and business entities that played and continue to play integral roles in the sustenance of the chamber. GCCI continues to be recognised for its vocal non-partisan stance on issues locally, regionally and internationally, in addition to its proactive and sometimes reactive approach toward the commercial sector. During the awards portion of the evening, Queens Atlantic Investment Inc (QAII) was presented with the Business of the Year Award (Large) 2013 for its outstanding performance in propelling Guyana’s development in the commercial sector. JAPARTS, Pomeroon Oil Milling, and MACORP were among the nominees for the award. “Recognising the tremendous potential for growth and development in Guyana, Queens Atlantic has taken the bold initiative to venture into various entrepreneurial opportunities, including investment in Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 Cricket Tournament,” Chairperson Kit Nascimento said as he made the announcement. QAII also acquired the franchise for the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team, in addition to offering title sponsorship, making the tournament the “Limacol CPL””, the coolest sporting league in the Caribbean. Capitol News received the media award for its outstanding coverage of the

work of the chamber and the business community, while Demerara Tobacco Company Limited copped the Long Service Award. It has been a member of GCCI since 1944. The Home Affairs Ministry received the Public Service Award of Excellence, while Courts Guyana copped the Corporate Citizenship Award (Large). The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Marie June Mendes for her contributions to the development of the business environment in Guyana. “Matriarch of the Farfan and Mendes Group of Companies, June Mendes has been at the helm of the group from 1960 until her retirement in 2006. She continues to serve as chairman of the board, providing

From page 3

guidance and advice to the management team. Outside of business activities, she has been inconspicuously active in community service in a private capacity. She has served on several boards and charities, because she strongly believes not only in assistance for the less fortunate, but in supporting non-profit initiatives, strengthening family groups and providing opportunities for individuals to develop and succeed, especially in sports,” Nascimento said as he made the announcement. The past presidents of the chamber were also presented with awards. These were just a few of the 13 awards that were distributed during the award ceremony.

In expressing condolences to the bereaved family, BRHA Public Relations Officer Michael Itwaru said the BRHA was saddened and regretted the loss of the young man. He assured that an investigation has been mounted by the team from the hospital comprising the matron, a senior nursing tutor, a senior doctor, and himself. He said upon completion, their findings will be submitted to the BRHA board of directors and the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the Health Ministry. So far, he said, statements and preliminary probing has been done.“We are careful and have always been careful as to the services we provide to the public,” he said, noting that a loss of life is very tragic, hence the investigation.“Where there have been lapses, we must be able to correct that, so that day by day we are able to improve on the service we offer to the public,” Itwaru said.

fter days of speculation about the fate of the landmark Fogarty’s department store after its sale was announced, Laparkan Group Chairman Glenn Khan said the company was not selling the business, just the building and will be re-leasing it to operate its decades-old store. Khan told a news conference on Thursday that the company has sold its main Fogarty’s building on Water Street as part of a refinancing deal, which will see the company leasing the same building for the rest of the business’s lifetime, from the new owners. According to Khan: “We have not sold Fogarty’s, we have not gotten rid of Fogarty’s, we have not miniaturised it”. The chairman told the media that the company was looking at new ways to make the business more financially viable and competitive. He would not be drawn into disclosing the identi-

ty of the new owners when questioned, stating that the deal has not been sealed. Media reports have named Trinidad-based American Stores Company as the new owners. He said the deal will allow a greater cash flow for the company to take on other projects. Khan assured that staffers have nothing to fear, since the doors of the store will remain open. Khan added that the decision was taken as a sound financial engineering strategy to fund and provide cash. “We want to look strategically at growing the business and maintaining our presence,” the chairman said, adding that “many organisations abroad do it, it’s nothing new… you release capital by losing fixed assets… sell it and rent it back, it has been done for years.” According to Khan, the sale of the building is expected to be closed by February 2014.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, December 6, 2013

News

Guyana secures US$16.9M IDB loan to advance LCDS

uyana, one of the bestconserved high-biodiversity countries in the world, will advance in its efforts to implement its Low-Carbon Development Strategy with US$16.9 million in financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The financing is the first of two programmatic policy-based loans to support the creation of regulatory, institutional, and monitoring instruments to help Guyana implement its development plan and mainstream environmental issues into institutional strategies. Guyana has about 85 per cent of its territory covered by forest and wooded lands. The IDB-project will support measures to update the country’s regulatory framework to maintain low rates of deforestation and forest degradation caused by mining, logging, and agriculture, as well as to improve the government’s institutional capacity to enforce legislation. Moreover, the project will support measures to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, the main entity in charge of promoting and

Hard ears got cure, but not hard head

The IDB project will support measures to update the country’s regulatory framework to maintain low rates of deforestation and forest degradation caused by mining, logging, and agriculture

implementing the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This project is designed to foster the creation of government systems to measure, report, and verify forest carbon emissions resulting from deforestation and forest degradation. The IDB financing is made up of two loans of US$8.46 million each. The first loan comes from the IDB’s ordinary capital, with a 30-year maturity, and a 5.5-year grace period and a fixed interest rate (SCF-Fixed). The second

loan comes from the bank’s Fund for Special Operations, with an interest rate of 0.25 per cent a year, and a 40-year maturity and grace period. The IDB also approved this week a US$3.8 million non-reimbursable technical cooperation grant to Guyana to support measures to help the country establish an enabling framework and to build capacity for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+).

ld people seh when yuh stupid and dotish, yuh stupid and dotish fuh life. Nutten can’t cure that. Old people seh hard ears got cure, but not hard head. A good doctor seh hard head is a chronic sickness. When lil pickey grow up rude and stubborn and behave like dem hard ears, dem mummah and daady does deal wid dem and dem does learn de right way. But not when dem head hard. Well, whah old people and de doctor seh is true, true story. This country got nuff hard head people and dem know nutten can cure dem from dem hard headitis. Is no wonder dem ain’t want de Specialty Hospital – dem know it can’t help dem. In fact, is only a hammer can cure hard head. A hammer can cure hard head people and send dem straight to de one above. Is hard head whah got Rum Jhaat and Nagga Man de donkey man so bad. Mouth does start movin wid out brain. Is de same ting got Green Ham and Green Bridge talkin nutten wid sense. Well, as fuh Ram Bow and de other Ram, aka Lalloo, who does ram one another, dem got acute hard head syndrome. It look like as other tings get soft, dem head does get more hard. De head of de hard head club is Mook Lall…it ain’t got no body else better than he to head de hard head club. De hard head Mook got all dem boys who seh dem is boys under he in de hard head club, and de hard headitor is he deputy. One of dem reporters who does wuk pun Saffon Street, right wheh de Mook ain’t pay de city council rates and taxes whah he owe, seh de headitor used to try to soften de Mook head a long time now. But it never wuk because de Mook head like brick and can even bruk a hammer. Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! It turn out that de headitor head end up gettin hard, and some ting else get soft fuh de Mook.

APNU tables motion for reduction of Berbice bridge toll

he main opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has tabled a motion in Parliament calling for the reduction of the tolls charged for the crossing of the Berbice River Bridge. The motion was moved by MP, Joseph Harmon and seconded by Amna Ally. Harmon said in his first whereas clause that the Berbice bridge was built with significant investment by the government of Guyana on behalf of the people of Guyana and that it is owned and operated by the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI); a company incorporated under the provisions of the Companies Act No 29 of 1991 of the Laws of Guyana.

According to Harmon, government through the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Ltd (NICIL) is a preferential shareholder and a member of the Board of Directors of the company. Harmon noted that since it’s commissioning in December 2008, the Berbice bridge has facilitated crossing of over 650,000 vehicles (over the Berbice River) resulting in annual revenue of over $1,500,000,000 (one billion, five hundred million dollars) for the BBCI. He also outlined the various toll rates for each category of vehicles. Harmon contended that the toll for crossing the Berbice River is exceedingly high when

compared to a similar crossing of the Demerara River by the Demerara Harbour Bridge and represents a significant devolution of wealth from the people of Berbice in particular, to the benefit of a private company. He said in recognition that the toll was too high, the Berbice Bridge Company Inc for a specific period over August 1-12, reduced the toll for the crossing of the Berbice bridge. As such, Harmon is calling for a resolution by the National Assembly to call on the Government of Guyana to instruct its representative on the Board of Directors of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc to demand an immediate reduction in tolls charged.

friday, December 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

friday, december 6, 2013 | guya

er 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

14 news

friday, december 6, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

NEW GPC INC pours cold water on KN spy report

Digicel launches Christmas promotion

– urges probe into staff at national archive

he management of NEW GPC INC says it views with grave concern an article in Thursday’s edition of the Kaieteur News, headlined, “Dr Ramroop spies on Kaieteur News”. In a statement on Thursday, the management of NEW GPC stated that the headline and story are misleading and are aimed at continuing the “witch-hunt and campaign of hatred against the business sector and, more particularly, the Executive Chairman of Queens Atlantic Investment Inc (QAII), Dr Ranjisinghi Ramroop”. NEW GPC also believes that the Kaieteur News is on a mission to intimidate anyone who is perceived to be conducting investigative research on the newspaper’s owner and publisher Mohan “Glenn” Lall, “who has been named in U.S. ca-

bles as being involved in human smuggling and having “links” to the criminal underworld, which serves his “muckraking” media enterprise well.” NEW GPC also condemns the actions of all those who clandestinely took photographs of its staff members who were conducting legitimate research in the archives. “NEW GPC has taken careful note of the article and knows that the photographs were taken by staff members of the Dr Walter Rodney Archive, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown as a means of serving the intimidatory agenda of the Kaieteur News,” the company stated. The company added that it has received information that the principals at Kaieteur News allegedly offered various forms of compensation, from as low as $2000, to anyone

who would stoop to its level of hatred and vindictiveness directed at businesses which are simply outperforming the entities with which the owner and publisher of the newspaper is involved. NEW GPC states that that any attempt to intimidate its employees will serve no purpose, as they remain committed to their assigned duties, notwithstanding the fact that one staff member in a sister company has resigned in “fear” of Lall, as stated in the employee’s own email to a member of the management team. The pharmaceutical company is also calling on Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony under whose portfolio the Dr Walter Rodney Archive falls, to immediately conduct an investigation into the operations of this entity.

Moon Notice

The Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (C.I.O.G.) wishes to inform the Muslim community that the moon was sighted on Tuesday 3rd December2013; therefore the 1st day of Safar 1435 A.H will correspond to Wednesday 4th December 2013.

The four long-standing Digicel customers who were awarded

igicel Guyana on Thursday launched its Christmas promotion called “Brighten Someone’s Christmas” at its store at the City Mall, Regent and Camp streets, Georgetown. At the launch, the company’s marketing head, Jacqueline James, explained that 12 attractive and affordable handsets will be on sale during the Christmas season starting from as low as $2900 VAT inclusive. In 2012, Digicel outdid itself by offering handsets at very low prices, starting at $2500. This year, the company has moved to introduce four new handsets, including the DL 700, which replaces the DL 600, and

the BlackBerry 9720, which replaces the 9320, to the Guyanese market at very affordable prices. James explained that the Digicel DL 700 boasts a host of enhanced features, including a five megapixel camera and users can choose from more than a million apps in the Google Playstore. The DL 700 is available while stocks last at a cost of $24,000. The BlackBerry 9720 has a 2.8-inch touchscreen and up to 32 GB of memory among other features. This phone is also available at stores across the country at a cost of $35,000. Customers can also purchase the BlackBerry 9320 at a cost of $24,000 while stocks last. James added: “With the unbeatable prices and the latest addition to our range of Android phones… we are continuously delivering on our promise to offer value for money and at the same time offering the best smartphones at the lowest prices.” These phones, she added, will only be offered dur-

ing the “Brighten Someone’s Christmas” Promotion, and customers are urged to visit the nearest Digicel stores as soon as possible. During the festive season, Digicel will be visiting eight communities throughout the country, starting with Baramita and Arakaka this weekend to spread Christmas cheer. Santa Claus will distribute gifts and other goodies to the children and the elderly in the communities. Digicel will also be part of the Christmas feeding programme for the less fortunate on the streets. The Digicel Morning Vibes Radio team will also be doing its part, first with a live broadcast in front of Stabroek Market today. At the launch on Thursday, four customers who have been with Digicel from the inception were awarded with special prizes, including BlackBerry Z10s. Santa Claus was also present and distributed gifts and goodies to customers and those who were present.

Schools to pause to discuss violence against women today

he Education Ministry has asked that all schools across the country today pause their regular business from 09:00h, to have a general discussion on the significance of observing International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW). This year, there will also be special focus on domestic violence. This is being done in an effort to help raise awareness among young people in Guyana, particularly the school population, about the importance of these two major societal issues affecting Guyana. The theme for this activity is, “Inspiring a Generation through Education”. According to a release by the ministry, all 444 nursery schools, along with the 436 primary schools, 175 secondary departments, 110

secondary schools, six special needs schools, two tertiary institutions, and the eight Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will join in this nationwide exercise. More than 200 volunteers will be joining the ministry in visiting schools to speak with the children. In the cases where there are no volunteers visiting schools, the ministry has put together a short presentation which will be read during the time earmarked for this most significant observance. “Let us teach children from an early age to respect the rights of each other and work together to eliminate violence against women and domestic abuse in our society. Know that violence against women is a fundamental human rights violation!”

News

Friday, december 6, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ramotar challenges corruption report on Guyana – calls for revelation of findings

President Donald Ramotar

n one of his strongest repudiations of international reports, President Donald Ramotar has questioned the transparency and authenticity of the research of the Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index. On Tuesday, TI reported that Guyana had scored 27 out of 100 points in its 2013 report, a decline of one point when compared to last year’s rankings. Since this revelation, the government refused to accept that the country’s situation is that poor and is challenging the findings. The president on Wednesday requested the disclosure of the four surveys upon which the pronouncement was based, along with the sources used and the persons who worked on the report. He made this call while at the 124th Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Gala and Awards Ceremony. According the president, he wants these revelations to be made since he has reservations about the authenticity of the findings. “(I want them) to give the associates who they spoke to, which target groups and what was the duration of the study that was done.” “I have seen some of the local stars of Transparency International, who talked about conflict of interest in the delegation of the APNU meeting with diplomats and I know one of them, their son is a candidate member of one of the political parties but they lecture us about conflict of interest,” Ramotar stated. Public bidding He reminded that his government had introduced the public bidding tender system for contracts. “It is this govern-

ment that every tender bid is opened publicly. Let us talk about transparency – the transformation made in this area is even as advanced as some developed countries of the world.” He went on to say that tenders are now opened before the media and even the award of contracts are announced publicly. The president noted that persons are accusing the government of being corrupt, but failed to recognise the developments made. “No one is speaking about how much we have done in this area and how far we have gone… no one is saying that some of the very sources they used, the Auditor General’s report, was not sent from this country for a long time but it has been appearing every year since we have been in government and not only that, but added too is the fact that the Ministry of Finance issued a Treasury Memorandum in trying to deal with some of the problems we still have,” he pointed out. Meanwhile, head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon on Wednesday said until the details and findings of the report are disclosed, he would not make a formal statement on the matter. However in a visceral response, he explained that the TI is “uncharitable” to the government. “They failed to recognise the efforts that the government have been making over time, leaning backwards in addressing the issue of transparency and accountability,” he said, adding that they may have also “fallen prey” to the wickedness perpetrated by some of the media by making unsubstantiated claims about the government, corruption, and lack of accountability.

friday, december 6, 2013| guyanatimesGY.com

Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry's 124th Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony awardees

Navin Prashad receiving one of the 2013 Past Presidents' Awards on behalf of his father, Manniram Prashad, presented by GCCI President Clinton Urling

Miss Guyana Universe Katherina Roshana presenting Neal Sukhlal of Impressions with the 2013 Innovation Award

Marie June Mendes receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award 2013 from the British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre

Business of the Year Award (Small-Medium) being presented to the Princess Hotel and Casino Fun City Family Entertainment Centre General Manager Cuneyt Dalcan, an award presented by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

A representative from Demerara Tobacco Company Limited receiving the Long Service Award 2013

A representative from Courts Guyana receiving the Corporate Citizenship Award (Large) 2013

Home Affairs Ministry Permanent Secretary Angela Johnson receiving the Public Service Award of Excellence 2013 on behalf of the subject ministry from Captain Gerry Gouveia

Komal Ramnauth receiving the 2013 Chamber Award, presented by GCCI President Clinton Urling

GCCI President Clinton Urling presenting a Footsteps Mega Store representative with the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award

Proprietor of John Lewis Styles, John Lewis, receiving the Corporate Citizenship Award (Small-Medium)

Terry Singh of Japarts receiving the Young Business Executive Award from Gem Nascimento

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Nicole Giles presenting the Editor-in-Chief of Capitol News Enrico Woolford with the Media Award 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 6, 2013

archie

By Bernice Bede Osol

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Present ideas and share your thoughts about future investments. Your sincerity and know-how will capture interest and help you close the year with a bang. Celebrate with the one you love.

dilbert

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Demands will put you in an awkward position. Do whatever needs to be done and move along. Lowered vitality can be expected. Complete what you started and get some rest.

Calvin and Hobbes

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Say little and do more. Your actions will be your ticket to success. Follow through with your promises, and you will be able to collect what you deserve in return.

Peanuts ARIES (March 21-April 19)

SUDOKU

Delays will set in while dealing with colleagues or peers. Counter any negativity you face with a suggestion, a solution and a smile. Don’t shun change; it’s your best option.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Put partnerships and romance first. Check out what everyone else is doing and follow suit if it will help you get what you want. Socialising will have its benefits.

CANCER (June 21July 22) Social activity should include co-workers. The information you gather while conversing with your peers will be advantageous. Shopping for bargains will lead to worthwhile purchases. Romance is highlighted.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Encourage others to share your adventure. Planning something that will inspire and excite you will also earn you a reputation that is sure to please. Look, see and do.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Get busy and get things done. The more you do without the help of others, the greater the rewards and satisfaction. Love is on the rise, and you will impress someone special.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23) Travel will be in your best interest. This is a wonderful time for you to learn about new cultures and traditions. Getting together with friends or meeting new people will be inspirational.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) Take any opportunity you get to visit new places. Romance is in the stars, and travel will do wonders for your love life. A makeover or image update will turn out well.

Thursday's solution GEMINI (May 21June 20)

SAGITTARIUS

Business partnerships can be prosperous. Don’t be afraid to make changes. Pick up last-minute items that you’ve been meaning to purchase before the year comes to a close.

Look after family obligations that require thought and change. Educational pursuits or picking up new skills should be considered. Scouting for profitable prospects will pay off.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 6, 2013

Nelson Mandelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life in photos In 2004, at the age of 85, Nelson Mandela retired from public life to spend more time with his family and friends

Mandela served just a single term as president and in 1999 became one of the few African leaders to stand down voluntarily. Thabo Mbeki (left) was given the almost impossible task of succeeding Mandela as leader of both South Africa and the ANC

Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (right) poses for a photograph with Mandela, 94, former president of South Africa, and his wife, Graca Machel (left) at his home in Qunu, South Africa, August 6, 2012

In 1956, Nelson Mandela was accused of treason for his ANC work

Mandela with his new wife, Graca Machel, next to his birthday cake, at a reception held at Gallagher Estate outside Johannesburg Sunday, July 19, 1998

The first democratic elections were held on April 27, 1994. Black South Africans formed long queues to cast their ballots for the first time. The ANC won by a landslide and Mandela became the first black president

guyanatimesgy.com

Friday, december 6, 2013

Entertainment

slated for Boxing Night

e have been to New York, Miami, Las Vegas, London and now we are journeying to Africa for an evening of rich culture and a dynamic party experience. Hits and Jams Entertainment will be hosting the much anticipated destination party once again this Boxing night. This event will be hosted at the Hotel Tower poolside which boasts great space and a comfortable setting. The venue will be transformed into the ancient continent, which is said to be the oldest inhabited territory on Earth with the human species originating from that continent. Entertainment will be provided by Guyana’s finest deejays out of Fusion and Stereo Sonic sound systems. Tickets cost $1000. You cannot afford to miss this event, so mark the date and prepare yourself for yet another great concept party. You have already journeyed to the unforgettable Las Vegas, Miami, New York and London concepts and this year, the organisers are happy to invite you to adventurous Africa! See you there.

s everything faded to black Saturday last when Hits and Jams Entertainment hosted the sixth edition of the All Black affair themed ‘The Next World’, patrons took it to the next level, partying through intermittent drizzle until day-clean. Having to move to a smaller venue due to inclement weather, did not deter All Black fans who proved that bad weather could not stop them from enjoying the biggest concept party hosted in Guyana. Despite having accessible shelter provided at the Tower poolside, party fanatics chose to dance in the light drizzle which came intermittently. Having to facilitate the thousands who attend this event, organisers opted to cover the pool which the Tower Hotel boasts, creating an excellent dance floor. The music selections did not disappoint, with

Guyana’s finest director of Hits and Jams Entertainment, Entertainer Kerwin and Fusion Sound System’s deejays Gully Ras, Selector Diamond, Entertainer Shizzle and DJ Energy providing the best party mixes inclusive of dancehall, soca, chutney, reggae, hip hop and old school genres. Large numbers attended, decked out in black attire, showing off their darker side. Many persons were also rewarded with U.S. dollars when they partied with Mackeson as ANSA McAL launched the brand’s Christmas promotion. All Black ‘The Next World’ continued into the morning as the last of the ready-todrop patrons did not leave the venue until 05:30h. This event was incident-free. The All Black affair is an annual occasion and is indisputably the most attended and most anticipated concept party of all time.

fter the high of Guyana Fashion Week at Rahaman’s Park and the Fashion Market at Pegasus Hotel, Sonia Noel jetted off to Suriname with the dynamic Nelsion Nurse to partner in a Pop-up-Shop set up by GFW’s guest Surinamese designers – Warda Marica and Remko Sintmaartensdijk. The event was a blast giving validity to the modern merchandising approach of target vending. The event created quite a stir and produced lucrative results for the eclectic mix of designers. They plan to continue in this vein for it serves to broaden client base and open up possibilities for networking and consolidating interests in the uniquely placed Guianas.

awareness of the disease. The premier event was held at the prestigious Sandals Grande, St Lucia and as usual, the production enlisted a professional organisation to serve as the model cast. The Bankers Association of St Lucia, under the artistic direction of celebrated regional production designer, Richard Young, did in fact strut their stuff to the accolades of the who is who of St Lucian society. “I have been part of this event for years but the show this year meant more to me because I am one of the patrons in Guyana and I plan on working closely with the association next to heighten awareness of Sickle Cell,” Noel said.

Rushing out of the Surinamese Fashion buzz, Noel zipped up to Strut for a Cause, in St Lucia, where she was featured as the prominent designer raising funds for the Sickle Cell Association and heightening

On showcase were two labels from Noel – her ‘ First Resort’ collection and her ‘Mariska’s’ brand. She opened and closed the show to rousing applauses from the packed audience. She catered to the

youth, the young-at-heart, the full-figured, regular men and the modeleqsue fashionistas. On showcase were other Caribbean designers – Shazi Chalon of Martinique, St Lucian designers, Nella Collymore, Sarleen Lagon, Noir et Blanc and St Lucian fashion house, Sea Island Cotton. The very next day, Sonia Noel gave a preview of her showing at the sprawling and spectacular Bay Gardens Beach Resort at an exclusive brunch, around the pool of the exquisite hotel. Needless to say some of her resort pieces were snapped up by excited international guests. Later that day she was on the panel of Richard Young’s St Lucia casting for Caribbean’s Next Top Model. Panel members were Delia Dolor, managing editor at SHE magazine and host of television show the Dolor Factor; Angie Montoute, former BBC television presenter and current St Lucian television and radio producer/presenter, Daria Ernest; the popular JQ

Rodney, Bay Mall manager, who is also responsible for Ayana Whitehead and Jarron Alexander – the faces of the mall who attended GFW 2013. The casting was highly successful, rounding up interesting faces with great personalities and fantastic body lines. Sonia Noel certainly knows how to work the circuit of the regional fashion landscape. The first resort collection and Mariska’s Designs will be featured this weekend in Suriname at the De Kus, which is an event that showcases creative and original furniture, jewellery, handbags and paintings. The owner fell in love with Noel’s clothing and decided to add clothing to the artistic line up. “Since GFW I have not had any time to rest but hopefully I may be able to do that early next year”, the designer lamented. In Guyana she is giving back for the season with huge discounts throughout December at her Barr Street, Kitty location.

entertainment

YELLOW PAGES

Guyanese artistes to perform at

friDay, december 6, 2013

dentistry Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

EDUCATION SAT/AP/CXC/IGCSE English classes, personalized tutoring. Phone: 6124821 after 4pm, 274-0437 after 7pm.

flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

FOR SALE 1 stall stabroek market phone: 718757-8031, 658-0145 Mecury in large quantities, 99.9999% purity in grey flask. Phone: 219-4535 60FT Antenna (Mass) for Radio, TV, Cellular, with cables, brackets, sky light $500,000 227-3939, 621-4000 73” 3D TV Mitsubishi Like new $450,000 227-3939, 621-4000 DIESEL Generator silent 28 kva SDMO John Deere engine, missing Fuel Pump, Panel, Avr MAKE OFFER 227-3939, 621-4000 CLARKE forklifts 2000, 3000, 4000 Lb, lifting capacity MAKE AN OFFER TEL: 227-3939, 621-4000 Generac Generator 15 kva, portable, $500,000 cash or credit available Tel: 227-3939, 621-4000 Diesel Generator, 3 cylinder Lister pitter (England) key start, 15 kva, $650,000 cash or credit Tel: 2273939, 621-4000 Chicken Hatchery (Robbins), 28,000 eggs capacity fully ready, $ 5.5 million or CREDIT available TEL: 2273939 621-4000

GOLDSMITH R.Sookraj & Gift Shop for the best in hand made jewellery ,(made to order) Phone: 612-2125/223-6156

health Are you suffering from abnormal behaviors, addictions, stresses, or psychosomatic sickness? Feeling suicidal, low self-esteem, loneliness, unloved, anger, conflicts and relationship problems? For appointments call 592621-0552. 12:00pm -6:00pm, Email: healthworldhc@gmail.com

immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/ visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 6213249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.

lAND FOR SALE Promising gold and diamond mining land for sale in different areas. Phone: 699-3992.

LOST One Dog which answers to the name Zion. Colour Cream/White/ Brown about 1 foot tall. Last seen on Wednesday, November 13, between Success & LBI, ECD. If seen please call on numbers 619-8086, 699-7077, 220-3183.

MEDITATION Learn transcendental meditation and reduce stress & anxiety, develop full brain potential, increase creativity and intelligence, concentration, focus and memory, be healthier & happier, increase energy vitality and longetivity, enjoy more success in life, improve relationships and develop higher states of consciousness, a technique that works for everyone, for next introductory lecture. Contact Ashoke phone 233-6921, 6093701, email: kashokejp_68@yahoo.com or Sherlock phone 2252243, 614-9726

powerful protection. Private and confidential. Phone: 674-2112. Cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá protection against evil. Get help to overcome problems with love, relationship, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money. Call 10am - 4pm. Tel: 592690-1824. Email: anew-life@live. com Dutch Spiritual work. Unite lovers, get rid of evil, enhance prosperity, good luck baths and charm bowu guards, etc. Phone: 220-0708, 612-6417, 687-5653

property for sale PRIME COMMERICAL PROPERTY, AT BUSY JUNCTION CUMMINGS AND MIDDLE STREETS IN ALBERTOWN, 3 LOTS WITH BUSINESS, (NUT CENTRE) PRICE NEG. TEL 621-4000, 227-3939 1 flat concrete house at Parfaite Harmonie. Phone: 643-4740 Lot 48 Light Street, Alberttown. Contact Ram on 619-4483, 6017883 or 227-1454, 226-6325. 1 property at reasonable price, located in Bareroot, East Coast Demerara. Phone: 612-6417. One two storey house at lot 93 Atlantic Gardens, ECD; upperflat-3 bedrooms, kitchen and bath; lower flat-2 bedrooms, kitchen and bath. Call 592-619-4483, 592-656-7471 EXECUTIVE TWO STOREY BUILDING 3 BEDROOMS WITH ALL MODERN CONVIENCES, MEADOW BROOK GARDENS, MR NARAINE. PHONE: 696-8230 Gas station land. Size: over one acre Phone Ms Liverpool on 625-7582, 681-9293.

Trike Can-Am style motorcycle, 200cc new, unregistered $450,000 neg or credit TEL 227-3939, 6214000 LEROY TRIDENT car 250 CC, 4 doors, power window, $495,000 cash or credit TEL 227-3939, 621-4000

opening

HILUX SURF 4 DOORS, minor parts needed, sold as is $750,000 TEL: 227-3939, 621-4000 Nissan Maxima, fully powered needs repairs sold as is $300,000 cash 227-3939, 621-4000 Stretch limousine, Lincoln Town car, fully powered $6.5 million or credit available Tel 227-3939, 621-4000 Mitsubishi 3000 GT sports car, fully powered, $1.7 cash or credit available TEL: 227-3939, 621-4000 Toyota Hilux extra cab, pick up $3.m. Phone: 264-2682. Titan (hardly driven) $3.5M neg. Phone: 691-9984

optician

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

TO let

2 bedroom apartment – central Georgetown. Couple/Small family. 227 3471/614 1069. Small business space suitable for technician shop, taxi base, etc. Phone: 691-7164, 231- 2619. Business place for rent , Plantain Walk ,Vreed –en Hoop. Phone:649-0707. House at Lamaha Gardens. Hot & cold water, AC, etc. Phone: 219-4535. Two modern apartments at Campbellville, hot & cold water, etc Phone: 219-4535 One house located in Lamaha Gardens, hot and cold water. Call 2194535 EXECUTIVE TWO STOREY BUILDING 3 BEDROOMS WITH ALL MODERN CONVENIENCES FURNISHED/ UNFURNISHED, MEADOW BROOK GARDENS, MR NARAINE. PHONE: 696-8230 Two-bedroom self contained apt. Caneville, Grove. PHONE: 669-1954 Two modern apartments at Campbellville, hot & cold water etc. Call: 219-4535 Recently constructed bond with house and office space on the same lot, centrally located in Broad Street, ideal for business or manufacturing. Phone: 623-0425, 609-2876

1 three-building centrally located downtown in Thomas Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, recently renovated, fully air conditioned, ideal for office with spaces for boardroom, or any other business. Immediate possession. Phone: 609-2876.

services Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 662-1247.

JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA PREMIO; TOYOTA ALLION; TOYOTA COROLLA AXIO; TOYOTA NOAH; SUZUKI SWIFT; MERCEDES BENZ C200 COMPRESSOR; BMW 318i; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; HONDA CRV; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, SOLID DIFFERENTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 3, 3.5 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; 3 TON DUMP TRUCK; NISSAN ATLAS 2-TON TRUCK.PREORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICE AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND A SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST. One 450 Honda ATV. Phone: 6263817 Toyota Hilux 172 diesel extra-cab pick-up, 4x4 manual (5-speed transmission) a/c, p/s p/w p/l, winch, off road front bumper, KC lights, side baranka bars, bush-ready, Old Man Emu, rear leaf springs, lifted Old Man Emu shocks, snorkel, bed liner. Phone: 623-0425, 609-2876

WANTED BODYWORK MAN TO SPARY MOTORCYCLE, HANDYMAN TO WORK IN STORE, MAID GO AND COME CLEANING ONLY (UNDER 30 YRS) APPLY GUYANA VARIETY STORE Tel 227-3939 One experienced production manager to work in Furniture Factory and one AutoCAD/draft person. Contact 657-1414 Urgently needed! One plot of land in Parfaite Harmonie, Herstelling and Eccles. Phone: 675-7292 One female babysitter, between 40 & 45 years, must be from Georgetown, be able to work flexible hours and some weekends, applicant with a sound secondary education may apply. Phone: 614-5711, 9am- 3pm

everal Guyanese artistes are expected to perform at the grand opening of the American Store on Saturday evening at the corners of Regent and Cummings street, Georgetown. Those slated to performed are George Anthony Abrams called “Chiney Man”; Joel Pharouse also called “Prince JP”; Guyana Jingle and Song Competition star, Brandon Harding; Michelle “Big Red” King; and the popular X2 comprising Jump Primo and Adrian Dutchin. Before the live performances, invitees will be entertained by the luscious sound of Fusion International along with its deejays Gully Ras and Selector Diamond and members of 71 Sound System. The formal opening starts at 16:30h with the ceremonial ribbon cutting. As soon as the speeches are done, it is time for the invitees to get their grooves on with a little bit of music, then the live show, which is expected to be steaming hot. After every performance, two lucky persons will win fabulous prizes including a gas cooker; refrigerator; flat screen television and other prizes. A total of 10 persons will win the prizes. Prior to the opening, more than 30,000 coupons were distributed to the general public which will be placed in a rotisserie and the names of the winner will be pulled on Saturday evening. Promotional staff of the store will also be distributing an additional 15,000 coupons at the City Mall today.

Michelle "Big Red" King

Brandon Harding

spirituality Suriname astrology palmist and Djuka healer. The most powerful spiritualist in the world. Are you suffering from the following problems? (any religions) love, marriage, family, health, business, husband and wife relationships, property, court, children, promotion, visa, pregnancy, education, depression, job, sexual, jealousy, enemy, money, drinking, also you can have all evil forces destroyed such as black magic, witchcraft, voodoo, obeyah, etc, and gives

VACANCIES One customs clerk with at least three subjects CXC including English Language, mathematics. Applicant must be computer literate. Please submit application before the October 11, 2013 to email: windsortechhomes@gmail.com or call 669-6874 or 682-3481

FRIday, DECEMBER 6, 2013

GFA Banks Beer Cup…

Mahaica Determinators, GDF advance to round of 16

a h a i c a Determinators pulled off a massive upset over Riddim Squad, while Guyana Defence Force (GDF) floored Botofago on Wednesday evening when action in the third annual Georgetown Football Association’s (GFA) Banks Beer Cup continued at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda. In two starkly contrasting games, Mahaica Determinators won 5-4 on penalties after a goal-less draw with the 2012 runner-up Riddim Squad in the feature contest, while GDF had a far easier time, crushing Upper Demerara’s Botofago 6-1 in the curtain raiser. Despite the feature game finishing without a goal being scored in regulation and extra time, both Mahaica Determinators and Riddim Squad had opportunities at goal during both halves. After the game, Mahaica Determinators’ coach Gregory Wickham expressed elation at overcoming Riddim Squad, adding that his boys are in the tournament for the long haul. “We train very hard for this and I’m telling you come January 1 we will be here to take this trophy,” a confident Wickham boasted. Wickham noted that the game was evenly contested with the difference being his team’s goalkeeper, whom he feels did a splendid job in the uprights. Riddim Squad’s coach Kavin Pearce was obvious-

Desford Williams

ly down-trodden by the early exit from the tournament, but vowed his players will rebound in the Guyana Football Federation’s National Premier League, which is currently being played at various venues across the county. In the opening game of the night, a Desford Williams’ hat-trick inspired GDF to a crushing win over Botofago. Williams was on target in the 45th+2, 65th and 67th minutes, while single strikes came from Seon Prince (11th), Jehu Brewley (29th) and Delwyn Fraser (34th). Yannick Simon pulled one back for Botofago in the 90th+3 minute. The competition will continue this evening with a double-header at the Buxton Community Centre ground. BV/Triumph United will take on GFC from 18:00 hours, followed by home team Buxton United FC against Seawall FC at 20:00 hours. The teams are battling for a top prize of four million dollars.

guyanatimesGY.com

England fight back against Australia despite spilled chances

ngland fought back on Wednesday after an ominous Australian start as a tense, seesaw first day of the second Test ended with the hosts on 273-5. But despite having lost the toss on a flat pitch, it could have been so much better for Alastair Cook’s men after three catches went down in the final session. With the close in sight, Michael Carberry dropped a sitter off the recalled Monty Panesar to allow Brad Haddin to survive into Friday’s second day on seven. His captain Michael Clarke was unbeaten on 48 having survived a far sharper chance to Joe Root on 18 off Graeme

Swann. A second-wicket partnership of 121 between Chris Rogers (72) and Shane Watson (51) had threatened to tighten Australia’s grip on the series. But three wickets then fell for 19 runs as tea approached, before Clarke and George Bailey (53) first halted England’s charge and then began to punish their attack. England had sprung a surprise by giving Ben Stokes rather than Gary Ballance his Test debut, and selecting a second spinner in Panesar rather than the seam of Tim Bresnan. As importantly to their hopes of levelling this Ashes series, Clarke

won the toss and startled no-one by opting to bat on a drop-in pitch that has seen almost 2,500 runs scored on it in two Sheffield Shield matches in the past two months. On a morning three times interrupted by rain showers, David Warner was the only wicket to fall, slapping Stuart Broad to Carberry at point for a combative 29 off 32 balls. Cook was quick to turn to Panesar and Swann, but just as there had been nothing in the track for the pace bowlers, so there was initially minimal turn for the spinners - even if both were parsimonious. Stokes was accurate in his first spell in Test cricket but let down by

the occasional bad delivery, bowling 26 dot balls yet conceding boundaries from the other four. (BBC

Sport)

SCOREBOARD Australia 1st innings C Rogers c †Prior b Swann 72 D Warner c Carberry b Broad 29 S Watson c & b Anderson 51 M Clarke* not out 48 S Smith b Panesar 6 G Bailey c Swann b Broad 53 B Haddin† not out 7 Extras: (b 5, nb 2) 7 Total: (5 wkts, 91 overs) 273 Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-155, 3-155, 4-174, 5-257 Bowling: J Anderson 21-956-1, S Broad 19-3-63-2, G Swann 19-2-55-1, M Panesar 24-4-68-1, B Stokes 8-2-26-0

guyanatimesGY.com

friday, december 6, 2013

Participants brave weather at Region Two DOI

GCB/GT&T/Hand-in-Hand Senior Inter-County Four-Day…

Essequibo close on 101-3 against Demerara …no play at Everest By Rajiv Bisnauth

n a shortened day and on a sluggish pitch, Essequibo reached 101-3 against Demerara on day one of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) senior InterCounty four-day tournament on Thursday at the Enmore Community Centre ground. A soggy outfield prevented play until 14:35hrs and only 36 overs were possible in the day’s play. Sent in to bat, Essequibo openers Royan Fredricks (29) and Kevon Boddie (32) combined to add 56 for the first wicket, but failed to build on the good foundation. Fredricks was removed by leg spinner Amir Khan while off spinner Zaheer Mohamed accounted for Boddie’s wicket. Khan also removed Ricardo Peters just before stumps to finish the day with figures of 2-24 while Mohamed has so far picked up 1-16. Dellon Heyliger (16) and Kemo Paul (7) were the not out batsmen at the close. Meanwhile, the wet outfield prevented the start of the Berbice and the President’s XI, game scheduled for the Everest Cricket Club ground. Even though the sunny weather welcomed the players at the venue, umpires Gyananand Sookdeo and Imran Moakan, along with

Director of Sport Neil Kumar presents sport gear to a representative of one of the communities in the presence of Region Two Chairman, Parmanand Persaud

Royan Fredricks plays a cut shot during his innings (Photo: Rajiv Bisnauth)

standby Patrick Garnath, decided that play was impossible following the final inspection at 15:00h. The tournament was originally scheduled to commence last Thursday. However, consistent rains had left venues waterlogged, leaving the organisers with no alternative, but to reschedule the threeround tournament. The tournament forms part of Guyana’s preparation for next year’s regional competitions. This year, the GCB has included a President’s XI, increasing the number of teams to four. The competition is of utmost importance to the GCB since it is being used by the senior selectors to pick the best possible Guyana team. Guyana Telephone and

Telegraph Company (GT&T) and Hand-in-Hand Insurance joined forces with the GCB as co-sponsors of the tournament. Round two is scheduled from December 10 and will see Demerara playing Berbice at the Enmore Cricket Club ground and the President’s XI opposing Essequibo at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground. The final round is fixed from December 15 where Demerara will face President’s XI at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground and Essequibo will oppose Berbice. That game is tentatively scheduled for the Demerara Cricket Club ground. Play at both venues is scheduled to start at 09:00h, weather permitting.

espite inclement weather, the Sport Ministry, in collaboration with the National Sports Commission and the Region Two administration, recently staged another edition of its Day of Interaction (DOI) at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground. Due to the adverse weather condition, there was no formal opening ceremony, but Director of Sport Neil Kumar and Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud mingled with the participants and encouraged them to have an enjoyable and competitive day of activities. Hundreds of athletes and officials participated in various disciplines, including softball cricket (male and female), football and table tennis. The weather was challenging for the outdoor sports, but the athletes and officials braved the weather condition and displayed great skills and performing in the various dis-

ciplines. The male softball competition attracted 10 teams: Taymouth Monor, Affiance B, Charity, Good Hope, Capoey, Collen, Anna Regina Multilateral School, Essequibo Technical Institute, Affiance A and Golden Fleece. After the preliminaries, quarter-finals and semifinals, Collen and Golden Fleece battled in the final. Batting first, Collen made an imposing 62-1 from the allotted four overs with Ricardo Peters scoring 31 with four sixes and one four and Syad Singh making a spectacular 27, which included three huge sixes. Golden Fleece in reply managed 51-3 to lose by 11 runs. On the distaff side, five teams- Charity Emeralds, Yakishuru Mines, Capoey B, Pomona and Capoey A- competed for top honours. In the semi-finals, Yakishuru Mines drew the bye, while Capoey A

defeated Charity Emeralds. The finals saw Yakishuru Mines coming up against Capoey A. Yakishuru Mines batting first made 43-1 and Capoey responded with 43-3 with the game ending in a tie. A Super Over was required to determine the champion and Yakishuru Mines scored nine runs. Capoey A knocked off the target with ease, hitting the first three deliveries for six, two and four. The four-team football competition was won by Essequibo Technical Institute who defeated Henrietta B 3-1 in the final. Henrietta A and Charity were the other participating teams. In the table tennis final, Nathan Persaud won 11-9 against Malcolm Hinds. The winners and runners-up of the various disciplines were presented with trophies, while Kumar presented sport gear to several communities to encourage activities in those areas.

friday, DECEMBER 6, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Sport pays tribute to former South Africa president Nelson Mandela

IFA president Sepp Blatter has led the sporting tributes to his “dear friend”, South Africa’s first black president Nelson Mandela, who has died aged 95. Mandela had used sport to bring his country together following strict racial segregation by his predecessors. Blatter said: “It is in deep mourning that I pay my respects to an extraordinary person. “He and I shared an unwavering belief in the extraordinary power of football to unite people.” Blatter added: “He was probably one of the greatest humanists of our time.” Mandela once stated: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, it has the power to unite people, in a way that little else does.” FIFA’s president hailed Mr Mandela’s impact on football’s 2010 World Cup in South Africa and said there would be a minute’s silence as a mark of respect ahead of the next round of international matches. “When he was honoured and cheered by the crowd at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium on July 11, 2010, it was as a man of the people, a man of their hearts. “It was one of the most moving moments I have ever experienced. For him, the World Cup in South Africa truly was ‘a dream come true’,” Blatter added. After he was elected as president in 1994, the 1995 Rugby World Cup was to be the showcase event for Mandela’s unifying agenda in South Africa. One of the defining sporting images of the century was to follow in the final when, after South Africa’s 15-12 extra-time victory against favourites New Zealand, Springboks captain Francois Pienaar was handed the trophy by Mandela. In that moment, racially divided South Africa came together in a way unimaginable during the 27 years the Nobel Peace Prize winner was incarcerated for his actions in the fight against apartheid. South Africa rugby tweeted: “Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela. We will never forget the role you played in our country, in our sport, and for that we are eternally grateful.” Joost van der Westhuizen, who played

in the 1995 World Cup final, said on Twitter: “A sad day for our country. Rest in Peace Madiba. Condolences to his family and friends.” Former captain of the South Africa football team and Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar, 31, said on Twitter: “In tears, the Father Of the Great Nation has passed on. R.I.P TATA MADIBA.” South Africa rugby union wing Bryan Gary Habana, 30, who was part of his country’s triumphant side that beat England in the 2007 Rugby World Cup final, tweeted: “R.I.P Tata Madiba. Thank you for the inspiration and hope. May your legacy live on forever. #forevergrateful #proudlySouthAfrican.” Cricket South Africa said on their official Twitter account: “RIP Tata Mandela. It is because of you that a represented Proteas team can express their talent across the globe #Mandela.” In Adelaide on Thursday night, a minute’s silence was observed before the start of play on day two of the second Ashes test between Australia and England. Both sets of players wore black armbands in tribute to Mr. Mandela. Meanwhile, British Formula 1 Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said in a Facebook statement: “One of the most special moments in my life was meeting the great Madiba. “One of the most inspirational human beings to have lived & without doubt the nicest man I ever met. I will miss you, we will miss you Madiba. God rest your soul, I love you like a son loves a father. Rest in Peace. Lewis & Family xxx.” Six-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt also paid his respects, saying: “One of the greatest human beings ever..May your soul rest in peace.. The world’s greatest fighter...” Speaking in 2003 about the 1995 Rugby World Cup final, former South Africa captain Francois Pienaar, now 46, told BBC Sport: “What happened was Nelson Mandela said, ‘thank you very much for what you’ve done for South Africa’, but I said, ‘thank you for what you’ve done’. “I almost felt like hugging him but it wasn’t appropriate, I guess.” (BBC Sport)

Nelson Mandela hands the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy to South Africa captain Francois Pienaar

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2013

TOP SCORES

New Zealand 609-9 dec West Indies 213 & 314-5 (Tea 105 overs); South Africa 358-4 (de Kock 135, de Villiers 77, Shami 3-68) beat India 217 (Dhoni 65, Steyn 3-25, McLaren 3-49) by 141 runs; Australia 389-5 (Clarke 109) v England up to press time

Bravo ton, Deonarine fighting half-century stall New Zealand

Sport pays tribute to former South Africa president Nelson Mandela See story on page

Darren Bravo raises his bat after reaching his fifth Test century

INSIDE TODAY’S SPORT

Participants brave weather at Region Two DOI P22

GCB/GT&T/Hand-in-Hand Senior Inter-County Four-Day…

Essequibo close on 101-3 against Demerara …no play at Everest

See story on page

Kevon Boddie drives through the covers

est Indies centurion Darren Bravo up to press time had stroked 146 while Narsingh Deonarine supported with a fighting 52 as the Caribbean side defied New Zealand bowling to reach 314-5 (Tea 105 overs). Bravo had faced 305 balls with 22 fours in a partnership of 122 for the fifth wicket with Deonarine, who faced 129 balls and stroked four fours. New Zealand moved two big steps closer to their first Test win in over a year with their seamers dismissing Marlon Samuels and Shivnarine Chandepaul

early on the fourth day in Dunedin. However, stiff resistance from Darren Bravo, who scored his first Test century outside the subcontinent, kept the bowlers at bay for the rest of the session. Tim Southee and Trent Boult, fresh after a good night’s sleep, started the day with only a hint of reverse swing to work with in otherwise easy batting conditions and Southee didn’t take long to make the first breakthrough. In his second over of the morning, he took a sharp chest-high catch off his own bowling to dismiss Samuels for 23.

Scoreboard West Indies 1st innings K Edwards c Fulton b Boult 0 K Powell c †Watling b Southee 7 D Bravo c McCullum b Southee 40 M Samuels c Taylor b Southee 14 S Chanderpaul lbw b Boult 76 N Deonarine c Taylor b Southee 15 D Ramdin† c †Watling b Boult 12 D Sammy* not out 27 S Shillingford b Sodhi 9 T Best run out (Redmond/ Southee) 0 S Gabriel lbw b Sodhi 0 Extras: (lb 11, w 1, nb 1) 13 Total: (all out, 62.1 overs) 213 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-24, 3-70, 4-73, 5-106, 6-174, 7-183, 8-202, 9-205, 10-213 Bowling: T Boult 18-5-40-3, T

Southee 16-1-52-4, N Wagner 13-2-47-0, I Sodhi 15.1-2-63-2 West Indies 2nd innings (following on) K Edwards lbw b Sodhi 59 K Powell c Southee b Boult 14 DM Bravo not out 146 M Samuels c & b Southee 23 S Chanderpaul lbw b Wagner 1 N Deonarine c †Watling b Anderson 52 D Ramdin† not out 4 Extras: (b 4, lb 5, w 5, nb 1) 15 Total: (5 wkts, 105 overs) 314 Fall of wickets: 1-18, 2-135, 3-178, 4-185, 5-307 Bowling: T Southee 20-2-661, T Boult 24-7-56-1, N Wagner 21-2-75-1, C J Anderson 12-2-17-1, I Sodhi 24-3-771, A Redmond 4-1-14-0

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, Tel: 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230, 223-7231, Fax: 227-0685 - SALES AND MARKETING - sales@guyanatimesgy.com PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.