Guyana Times, 02 August 2017

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Issue No. 3289

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Emancipation celebrations

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyanese call for unity, freedom from ‘mental slavery’

Page 12

Region 2 residents concerned over unreliable ferry P11 service

Despite challenges

IPED performed “satisfactorily” in 2016 – Chairman P7

90% juvenile P14 offenders denied legal representation – RCC

EMANCIPATION FEVER: These lovely young ladies took the time for a photo op before hitting the stage at the African Cultural and Development Association's Emancipation Day celebrations 2017 in the National Park, in Georgetown

NICIL’s financial performance reflective of Govt's mismanagement – PPP/C Page 9

Soldier battles Retired prison for life following officers urged to return WCB accident Page 7

Page 3 – as Prison Service looks to strengthen its ranks

Integrity Commission filings

Page 14

Criminal charges stymied as Govt refuses to release names – Edghill

Upgraded P11 security systems for new Camp St Prison Man charged for sexual assault during ‘trance’ P15 – claims he was having ‘a sexual fantasy’ when he punched woman

Emotionally disturbed P10 Guyanese shot dead in NY

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“No sin in migration” – Dr Mohammed ... says new Diaspora Centre to draw skills and expertise to Guyana

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here is absolutely nothing wrong with persons choosing to seek a better life outside their home country, according to Interim Director of the recently launched Diaspora Engagement Centre, Dr Wazir Mohammed. He said persons just need to use the opportunities positive-

ly.

To this end, Dr Mohammed said he will be using his role as Director of the Engagement Centre to reach out to overseas-based Guyanese for them to lend their expertise towards the further development of the various sectors in Guyana.

The Centre is on the move to mobilise skills and

begin a process that would see persons living outside Guyana returning home to help build their homeland.

The Centre was launched following a fiveday Diaspora conference held in Georgetown and which saw the participation of a number of overseas-based Guyanese returning home to partici-

Gun, ammo possession lands fisherman on remand

F

ifty-year-old Sheikeeb Amad, called “Boyo,” a fisherman of Anarika, Essequibo River, was earlier this week arraigned before Wales Magistrate Clive Nurse on charges of being in possession of firearms and ammunition without being the holder of appropriate licences.

The police allege that on July 29 at Mabura Access Road in Region 10, Ahmad had in his possession seven cartridges of 12-guage ammunition and two shotguns.

Unrepresented by legal counsel, Amad pleaded not guilty as charged, and petitioned the court to be granted bail pending the outcome

The guns and ammunition that police allegedly found in Amad’s possession

of his trial.

But Police Prosecutor Sergeant Campbell objected to the accused being granted bail, and Magistrate Nurse, upholding her objection, remanded Amad on both offences and transferred his matters before the Linden magistrate.

His next court date is

August 18.

Joint Services ranks, conducting an operation code named ‘Clean Sweep’, on Saturday arrested Amad with the arms and ammunition at a camp at TwentyFive Miles Mabura Access Road in Linden, where the fisherman told the lawmen he was a hunter.

Interim Chairman of Diaspora Engagement Centre, Dr Wazir Mohammed

pate. Speaking to Guyana Times on Monday, Dr Mohammed noted that during the duration of the conference, the overseas participants sought to establish that they were first Guyanese, and want to be respected as just that.

“The Guyanese who came for the Diaspora conference want to first be respected as Guyanese for the fact that they have skills and something to give the country. We have to create a process through which those skills are embraced,” Dr Mohammed told this newspaper. “Migration is not a sin. The entire global population migrate all the

time. We just have to use it positively,” he declared.

He said when people are encouraged to give back to their neighbourhood, there is much that can be garnered from the knowledge and expertise they bring.

He said the Centre will be farming out the available knowledge so that Guyana could take advantage of it.

According to the University Professor, Guyana cannot realise its full potential until it realises that there are more Guyanese abroad than home and that the Guyanese abroad have skills that the country needs but cannot pay for.

“What we have to do is to organise the mechanism though which Guyanese abroad can transfer their knowledge and skill not only to the University of Guyana, but to the schools that need qualified teachers, our institutions, Private Sector and communities. What we need is a mechanism through which these skills can be organised and transferred, so Guyana will not have to spend a lot of money on consultancies. Consultancies are part of our big problem, because a lot of money is being spent on it and the

country is not getting value for the money,” he told this newspaper “How do we mobilise a relationship between people of goodwill abroad and Guyanese, and both the Private Sector and Government to link Guyanese abroad with Guyanese at home in order to enable development and allow the full potential of our people to be realised?” he questioned.

He maintained that the centre is about mobilising skills and not consultancy, as there remains a “graveyard of consultancy reports that nobody reads”.

“There are reports upon reports that this country paid billions of dollars for that nobody reads. We have to go in another direction in which we empower people abroad and empower people at home, put them in touch with each other so that we can transfer knowledge and skills, and learn from each other”.

The Diaspora Engagement Conference, initiated this year, has seen members of the Guyanese Diaspora gathering with the possibility of establishing this as a bi-annual event.

news

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, August 2 – a night time retraction of 01:00h and a daytime retraction of 13:30h-15:00h and Thursday, August 3 – a night time retraction of 02:00h and a daytime retraction of 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, August 2 – 12:45h-14:15h and Thursday, August 3 –13:35h-15:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Weather: Thundery to light rain showers can be expected in the morning hours, while heavy rain showers are expected in the afternoon. Clear to partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from South-easterly and South Southeasterly and East South-easterly between 1.78 metre to 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 12:31h reaching a maximum height of 2.14 metres.

Low Tide: 05:58h and 18:24h reaching minimum heights of 1.02 metres and 1.08 metres respectively.

Retired prison officers urged to return – as Prison Service looks to strengthen its ranks

T

he Guyana Prison Service has issued a call for retired, senior non-commissioned officers of the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force or the Prison Service to return in wake of a fire that destroyed the Camp Street Prison and multiple jail breaks.

This is according to a statement from the Government, in which Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels announced that applications from these individuals were welcome.

This, he said, was in order to strengthen the capacity of the prisons.

“Recent challenges which the Guyana Prison Service has been faced with require

us to look at all possibilities in strengthening our internal capacity,” he stated.

“We know that there is a core of experienced security services officers who have expressed a willingness to continue to give service to the nation and we believe it would be eminently sensible to engage these officers at this time,” he said.

Samuels invited these retired officers wanting to join the Guyana Prison Service to submit written applications to his office at 46 Brickdam, Stabroek.

Following the fire at the Camp Street Prison that razed the prison and resulted in a number of dangerous prisoners escaping, it was announced that steps had

Charity residents continue to face prolonged power outages

– criticise GPL for ‘blackout’ woes

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esidents as well as businesspersons continue to face prolonged power outages and according to Chairman of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce, Deleep Singh, it is unacceptable and it is having a negative effect on the economy of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Guyana Times was told that the northern side of the Essequibo Coast experienced power outages from 02:00h Tuesday morning and spent almost the entire Emancipation Day without electricity.

Reports are that many persons halted Emancipation Day celebrations due to the lack of electrical power. Information reaching this publication revealed that the Wärtsillä plant that supplies electricity to the North of the Essequibo Coast developed mechanical problems, and according to a source from GPL, the problem should be fixed by this evening.

Offering an immediate solution to the unacceptable blackout woes, businessman Daleep Singh suggested that the power company lease another containerised Genset from MACORP. He also suggested for the 60-cycle be changed to 50 in the meanwhile to help the Wärtsillä plant supply power until the new ones arrive on the Coast.

Singh said it is the consumers who suffer and are still given monthly charges.

"I am afraid one of those aged long Wärtsillä will go beyond repair and this will be serious. So as to avoid such a situation, I strongly believe GPL should make provisions now," Singh offered.

He also noted that residents and businesses have suffered way too long at

the hands of GPL. The Chairman of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce urged that the process for installation of the new generators be expedited so that reliable power can be supplied to the people of Region Two. He also called on Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson to reconsider his decision to have the new generator sets sent to Region Two in December.

Singh said most of the areas experiencing power outages are caused by mechanical failure at the plant and not from the facilitation of frequency conversion as was mentioned by the Minister in Parliament.

Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels

been taken to boost up the security at other jails such as the Mazaruni prison, where a complement of prisoners were moved.

It is understood that since the fire, over 400 prisoners have been transferred to penitentiaries in Mazaruni, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), New Amsterdam in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and Timehri, East Bank Demerara, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

The officer to prisoner ratio has, however, always been a challenge, with it being revealed to be 10 to 1000 or one to 100.

In March 2016, a fire raged through the Camp Street Prison and claimed the lives of 17 prisoners.

Afterwards, a Commission of

Inquiry (CoI) which cost the Treasury some $13 million was ordered by President David Granger.

According to the report compiled by the Commissioners, the combination of overcrowding, uncomfortable and unhygienic confinement are all ideal conditions for epidemics, for gangs to prosper and to propagate discontent.

Moreover, the CoI found that reducing numbers in prison to manageable levels is the single most important priority for establishing safe, humane and purposeful prisons.

It was further noted that repeat offenders have increased by over 100 per cent, “indicating not only a waste of taxpayers’ dollars but also the need for a more comprehensive and structured partnership within the wider justice system.”

But despite these recommendations, the Director of Prisons himself confirmed that at the time of the fire, which gutted Camp Street Prison, over 1000 prisoners were being housed at the prison. The Camp Street Prison was originally built to house nearly half that number.

The amount of prison officers on duty at the time is still unclear, as records were destroyed in the inferno.

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

In unity, strength is most sustained

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uyanese, on Tuesday August 1, celebrated another Emancipation Day. One only hopes that the celebrations this year reinforce in us all the lessons of the post-1838 history – that, in unity, strength is most sustained.

History has recorded that the final “full freedom” of Emancipation was won after decades of death, suffering, slavery and exploitation -- from 1763 through 1823, to 1834 and finally 1838.

The spirit of yearning for freedom – that liberty of mind, body and soul from ownership by others -- never deserted the African slaves, and the indentured contracted workers who followed them after full Emancipation in 1838. Numerous were the uprisings, rebellions, protests, riots and strikes. Emancipation never came willingly or cheaply from the colonialists.

Today, sugar workers are at a very low ebb, facing the disaster of unemployment, as Government is seemingly caught in a whirlwind of bad judgments and questionable decisions while it flounders to fashion a valid, structured and lasting plan to rescue an historic industry. As elaborated by this country’s largest trade union, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), in its Emancipation Day message to the Guyanese nation, closure of the sugar estates threatens thousands – both sugar workers and other members of the working class. As with the forced apprentices in 1838, GAWU made it poignantly clear that today’s sugar workers face a bleak, hopeless future unless economic sense prevails and the workers’ representatives are listened to with serious intent.

A point that has been lamented year after year, especially around this time, is that the descendants of emancipation must all share in equal opportunities as our natural and human resources become available to development for all.

And as GAWU pointed out in its Emancipation Day message, no group should be favoured or discriminated against because of political expediency. It is such approaches that will help preserve and give enduring meaning to achievements like emancipation and independence.

There is no questioning the fact that sugar is the historical reason for today’s diverse demography we know as Guyanese society. It is perhaps a curious, but certainly an understandable, fact of Guyana’s socio-economic history that sugar brought us together, often forged bonds of collective struggle against the plantocracy, and for independence.

However, we are today faced with a dire situation, wherein the leaders in the coalition APNU/AFC Government, who swore to keep the sugar industry alive, averring to the PPP/C mantra: “Sugar is too big to fail”, have now revealed their Machiavellian plot to dismantle this vital industry, which is the mainstay of entire communities.

Indubitably, it is felt that this plot was hatched prior to elections. Today, along with entire estates, the livelihoods of sugar workers and the survival of thousands of families are on the coalition’s auction block.

There are, and always will be, detractors who pessimistically prognosticate doom-and-gloom scenarios and advocate relinquishing the sector, because they envisage the problems and challenges in the sugar industry as being insurmountable.

However, if stakeholders of the industry – Government, workers, management, union -- can work together, then the myopic, destructive and visionless prognostication that sugar is doomed can be replaced with bright ideas and workable strategies to conceptualise the magnitude of success that a sustained and committed effort can engender in the sector.

As Guyanese, let’s emancipate ourselves from mental slavery; let’s do what’s right without prejudice based on race or politics. Let’s work together to save the sugar industry. Let’s give it another try!

A hype of energy was displayed as these young dancers took to the stage at the African Cultural and Development Association’s Emancipation Day celebrations 2017 in the National Park, Georgetown

Emergence of ‘Guyanese Diaspora’ term Dear Editor, I applaud the University of Guyana for hosting a Diaspora engagement conference last week. I attempt to explain how the concept of "Guyanese Diaspora" developed.

Guyanese Diaspora is relatively new and it was introduced during the 1980s by New York-based Guyanese involved in the struggle for the liberation of their country from the dictatorship. The term Diaspora was widely restricted for use among Jews – referring to dispersion of Jews.

Other ethnic groups have also found themselves scattered, but the term was not widely used to refer to their migration. The term became popular during the 1990s when other national groups in America began to refer to themselves as the Diaspora of their former homeland.

So the term Diaspora is relatively new among Guyanese. It was introduced by Indo-Guyanese in NYC in our meetings with nationals and Government officials from India during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Indian nationals used to use NRIs to describe overseas Indians but the term was not meant to include Indo-Caribbeans, since we were not born in India. IndoCaribbeans like Dev, myself and others introduced the term PIO to Indian nationals and politicians, and later we introduced the term

Indian Diaspora to them; we had recognised that both terms would include IndoGuyanese and other IndoCaribbean people. Other groups in the US have emulated the usage of the term Diaspora.

The term Diaspora was not in the vocabulary of Guyana – Government or Guyanese at home or abroad – until about a decade ago.

Prior to that, Guyanese who have migrated were referred to as overseas-based Guyanese similar to the term overseas-based Indians, Brazilians. The term Guyanese Diaspora was first introduced in discussions among a group of us in NYC during the mid 1980s in the heydays of our struggle for the restoration of democracy in our former homeland. The term was even used in the name of a Caribbean organisation formed in 1986 – East Indian Diaspora Steering Committee which was officially registered as non-profit in 1987.

In late 1986, a group of Indo-Caribbeans met with Professor Brinsley Samaroo at CUNY Graduate School on 42nd Street to establish and launch a planning committee to commemorate the 150th anniversary since the first indentured immigrants landed in Guyana.

Dr Samaroo was a Minister in the NAR Government in Trinidad and made a special trip to NYC to help plan and

organise what would the fourth conference of Indians in the Caribbean. We met at CUNY doctoral centre.

The three (1975, 79, 84) previous conferences (all held at UWI) were on IndoCaribbeans. We felt the 1988 conference should be broad based to include the global Indian community.

We came up with the term Diaspora conference borrowing it from the Jews to include all Indians (regardless of region or nationality, and, hence, the coinage of the Indian Diaspora which we would introduce to nationals from India. This term was introduced in interactions we held with academics and activists from India in the US including at an Indian conference in 1989 at the Sheraton Center in Manhattan. The term Guyanese Diaspora would similarly be used to refer to Guyanese abroad in meetings.

At that CUNY meeting, a formal name of our group was not taken. But Professor Prem Misir (LIU and St John) was nominated by myself and Ravi Dev to be President of the planning committee. I also nominated Professor Mahin Gosine (Fordham and CUNY) as Chair of the Academic SubCommittee. Both nominees were elected. I was elected General Secretary.

At a subsequent meeting at the Research Institute for Study of Man

on 5th Ave in Manhattan, two names for the organisation were proposed – Asian Indian Diaspora Steering Committee or East Indian Diaspora Steering Committee. The acronym of the first – AIDSC – was not acceptable with the objection being that it was too close to the disease AIDS which had just arrived on the health scene. The acronym of the second organisation – EIDSC – was considered more acceptable and it was unanimously carried in a vote. Some Professors from Columbia University attending the meeting offered their university as host of a week-long conferences. EIDSC was subsequently registered as a NGO co-hosting the IndoCaribbean Diaspora conference at a hotel in Queens.

There was a conflict in the group. Another conference was held on the same dates at Columbia University as planned. Dr Cheddi Jagan and Basdeo Panday attended both conferences.

It was through the 1988 conferences that the term Diaspora was introduced to Guyanese and would gradually be used in the vocabulary of Guyanese in NYC. It frequently appeared in my voluminous writings on Guyanese in the USA in our ethnic publications from then onward.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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

Investigative journalism plays a critical role Dear Editor, My term as Petroleum Adviser to President Granger began in March 2017, whereas the re-negotiation of the contract for the Stabroek Block was performed about a year earlier (early part of 2016).

I have not negotiated contracts between any oil company and the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

President Granger has made clear that his priority is for the oil and gas

resource to benefit the Guyanese people without corruption. The Petroleum Adviser supports this objective wholeheartedly.

It is encouraging to see Guyanese journalists paying attention to potential conflicts of interest. Many in Guyana, including some of our most prominent officials and attorneys, seem not to recognise these conflicts, hence journalists need to become more adept at investigating possi-

ble conflicts of interest by directly querying allegedly involved parties and highlighting likely abuses.

In the recent article about the Mangal brothers, it seems the relevant journalists failed to ask about, or acknowledge, the mitigation measures which are in place. They also do not appear to have asked any of the oil companies operating in Guyana whether they had perceived or experienced any resulting con-

flict.

The risk of corruption is likely to increase with the advent of our oil and gas sector, due to the vast sums of money involved, and with the complex transnational business structures.

Objective, specialised and investigative journalism will therefore play a critical role in attaining the President’s vision.

Regards, Dr Jan Mangal

Worst prison systems in Caribbean

Dear Editor, I deliberately kept away from this debate on “Ministerial Responsibility” after the second or maybe the third prison unrest in Guyana under Khemraj Ramjattan because I felt there was no need for debating this issue when the nation was in the middle of a security operation.

But now that all the prisoners have been removed from the “cow pasture” at Lusignan, I wish to join the debate, because horrible history was made under Ramjattan over the last few weeks. Guyana is now classified as having one of the worst prison systems in the Caribbean, with one of the worst break-out records.

The 2016 prison unrest in which 17 prisoners died should have been the trigger to cause any portfolio head to more effectively project manage the system until the risk levels were de-escalated. Under Ramjattan,

the opposite happened over the last 12 months. Under Ramjattan, the conditions for a breakout in the prison system actually got worse, because of a lack of proper investments and executive lethargy at the policy conception and implementation level. For that reason alone, if Ramjattan has any dignity and honour left, he should offer his resignation to the President forthwith. Ramjattan has brought great shame to all his predecessors, especially Balram Singh Rai, one of Guyana’s foremost intellectuals and the most celebrated Home Affairs Minister.

Under Ramjattan, the cabinet found the resources to divert billions towards building a billion-dollar Durban Park (project), to fund ministerial travels, to increase their personal salaries by 50%, and to provide ministers with executive vehicles. But even after all that comfort, these people contin-

ue to fail the nation on many fronts, especially the security front; whereas they had presented themselves as the security barons of Guyana on the 2015 campaign trail.

The evidence clearly reveals they are security baboons when it comes to managing the security sector, as they continue to mismanage the systems to protect the people of Guyana.

For that reason alone, Khemraj Ramjattan should go, because his poor leadership failed resoundingly to put systems in place to serve and protect the people.

On April 20, 1653, when Oliver Cromwell made a speech upon the dissolution of the Long Parliament, he said these words: “Ye are grown intolerably odious to the whole nation; you (who)

were deputed here by the people to get grievances redress’d are yourselves gone!

So! Take away that shining bauble there, and lock up the doors. In the name of God, JUST GO!” I am truly disappointed in Ramjattan. He can so better serve the society by going back to his law practice, where he is fantastic, rather than clinging on to a siren and a portfolio at which he is an utter failure. I am convinced that he is no longer fit to conduct the affairs of the nation as the Minister of Public Security. As Cromwell said, “You have sat too long here for any good. Depart, I say, and let us be done with you!”

Regards, Sase Singh

Absurd statements about Maha Sabha Dear Editor, I wish to reply to a letter published on July 28, 2017,

by Badree Etwaroo, PhD, referring to the Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha. I am a young Hindu priest, and a member representing the oldest organisation in Guyana, the Maha Sabha Ashram. I understand that perfection is not a quest for the best. It is a pursuit of the worst in ourselves; the part that tells us that nothing we do will ever be good enough.

Etwaroo, I oppose your absurd statements about the Maha Sabha being run by unintellectual individuals and would like to ask you if your critical thinking is that authoritative to make such statements, why not voice your suggestions to the Board of executive members so that it can be taken into consideration?

Editor, I wasn’t expecting any better. The Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha currently has Pandit training classes, Hindi, Sanskrit and philosophy classes. Many other cultural activities take place year-

ly in which various organisations and Government Ministries are witnesses to.

Etwaroo, don’t try to silence other people’s genius just because you’re too deaf to hear your own. When you judge others, you do not define them, you define yourself by revealing your true character of being a “staunch Hindu” as you call yourself.

Our motto at the Sabha vows to “protect your Dharma as Dharma will protect you”. Hence, your unethical suspicions display your negligence in protecting your Dharma. I make no hesitation in welcoming your critical opinions as we can work together to uphold dharma in a cohesive manner.

But in closing, I wish to tell you that criticism will only plant fear in the heart and minds of our fellow humans, but it can never foster love and affection amongst Hinduism.

Sincerely, Pandit Ubraj Narine, JP Priest in charge Maha Sabha

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Teaching about slavery: tips for tackling the issues in the classroom

BY MICHAELA ALFRED-KAMARA

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he International Day for the Abolition of Slavery on December 2 is an opportunity for school leaders, teachers and students to reflect on the appalling situation of 20.9 million men, women and children trapped in slavery across the world today and denied of their most basic human rights.

Many teachers use the themes of change and continuity to introduce contemporary slavery to their students. Citizenship, geography, religious education and English all present opportunities to teach contemporary slavery, and the role that students can play in its eradication.

Teaching students about contemporary slavery is even more timely with the recent discoveries of numerous cases of slavery involving British citizens.

Here we share the lessons we’ve learned in good practice to teaching modern-day slavery to students:

Clearly define slavery and avoid conflating related issues

Modern day slavery is a complex problem, ranging in its forms from bonded labour, forced labour, descent-based slavery, trafficking and the worst forms of child labour to forced marriage. Many elements often present at the same time.

But these nuances are often over simplified when teaching slavery. For example, not all child labour is slavery and some types of work might be even beneficial to children’s development, helping them learn particular skills. Some child domestic workers are able to negotiate favourable contracts that entitle them to adequate payment and time off to attend school and play with friends.

Emphasising that those in slavery are forced to work and

face punishment if they refuse is a good starting point. Students can then explore the root causes of slavery, which include poverty, discrimination – be it on the basis of race, caste or gender – and the lack of the rule of law by decision makers.

We have developed a range of resources that teachers can use to introduce modern day slavery to students and highlight

the different manifestations, as well as the role they can play in calling for its eradication.

Embed slavery in the curriculum

As teaching time is limited, integrating slavery into lessons is a useful time-saving device. For example, when writing to inform or persuade in English lessons students can write to their local MP about slavery. In geography, when teaching about deserts or the Amazon, the enslavement of people in Niger or those harvesting Brazil nuts can be included. Themes of change and continuity can be explored in history, with students enquiring how slavery abolition and legislation in the UK has evolved from 19th century to today.

Illustrate the local and global context and impact of slavery

It’s important that students understand that all countries in

the world are affected by modern slavery.

Using interactive tools such as the Products of Slavery website and map is useful to illustrate this from a global perspective.

Newspaper stories highlighting the occurrence of slavery in the UK – and you don’t have to look far to find one with the recent London case of women held in domestic slavery for 30 years –

show that slavery happens on our doorstep too.

It’s important that students understand that slavery is not something solely linked to issues of poverty in developing countries. To increase empathy, when talking about slavery abroad, try to find a link to the daily experiences of the students.

For example, much of the cotton from Uzbekistan is picked by children and adults forced to do so by their government. This ends up in our high street shops and it’s probable that many children in the classroom wear it.

Avoid perpetuating the “poor victims” syndrome

When teaching about the transatlantic slave trade, it’s easy to fall into the cliché of the blameless noble African victim enslaved by evil white men and slavery abolished by benevolent white men. This can also be easily played out when teaching about

modern-day slavery too, with the poor “child slave” working in an Indian factory, or the poor young woman trafficked into prostitution – all portrayed as victims in need of rescuing.

While people in slavery are denied their most basic human rights, positing them only as “slaves” in need of being freed denies them of their humanity and any sense of agency they have. This can make students think that merely rescuing slaves would solve the problem and omits the need to take political action.

Avoid calling people affected by slavery “slaves” and use individual stories and case studies told in the first person to deepen students’ empathy.

Ask your students to discuss how the process of enslavement has occurred in each case and what actions decision makers and the general public can take to support those in slavery claim back their rights.

Empower students to be modern day abolitionists

Perhaps most importantly, students need to be aware of the actions that they can take as local and global citizens in ending slavery.

Highlight the actions of many ordinary British citizens standing with enslaved Africans who fought for their freedom at every turn to successfully pressure decision makers to end the transatlantic slave trade. Explain how sugar was boycotted and how people, such as Frederick Douglas and Olaudah Equiano, campaigned along abolitionists such as Thomas Clarkson and William Wilberforce to bring a 400-year-old practice to an end.

Talk about the more recent actions of child domestic workers who lobbied the International Labour Organisation to agree a convention giving them workers’ rights and legal protection. (The Guardian)

T

he word “emancipation” generally means liberation, but is often used to describe the process of freedom from slavery. Guyana celebrates Emancipation Day on August 1, every year, in observance of the abolition of slavery.

This celebration is important for a number of reasons. The first, and most important, Ashley Anthony is that it marks the end of a dehumanising era. It represents the culmination of years of struggle and hardship endured by the ancestors of Afro-Guyanese. It also serves as an avenue for the celebration of African culture, through the display of African artwork, clothing and foods. This is particularly meaningful because it showcases the resilience the African culture has: being able to endure the oppression of

slavery.

One of the reasons I personally believe Emancipation Day is important is because it reminds the younger generation of history. Although most young people are familiar with the facts, it seems as though there is a disconnect; they cannot begin to imagine slavery ever having been a reality. This is why days such as Emancipation Day are opportunities to teach more than facts. Young people should be encouraged to read personal recounts of slaves, or even listen to their elders pass down stories of the cruelty experienced, so that they can truly understand the significance of Emancipation.

Emancipation also marked a turning point in our country’s history. The triumph allowed for the establishment of many villages and towns that we know and love today, and it was one of the first steps towards independence.

Finally, Emancipation Day should not be celebrated by solely Afro-Guyanese. Although the day might have special meaning to them, it is important that all Guyanese recognise the plight of the slaves. Guyanese should stand unified, proud that slavery has been abolished, and should support Afro-Guyanese in their attempts to practice or even revitalise their culture. It is a time for reflection for each of us, to remember the sacrifices made by slaves and their descendants and it is also a time to look towards the future, inspired by the remarkable resolution of our ancestors when faced with difficulties.

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wednesDAY, August 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Soldier battles for life following WCB accident

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Private attached to the Guyana Defence Force is battling for his life at the Georgetown Public Hospital after he was struck down by a motorcyclist during a Joint Services operation at Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice on Monday evening.

As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist also received injured and was admitted a patient at the Fort Wellington Hospital.

The injured soldier is Brian Samuels, 22, of Low Land, Hope, East Coast Demerara while the motorcyclist was identified as 65-year-old Ramraj of 5th Street, Alberttown, Georgetown.

Reports are ranks of the Joint Services, including the now critical officer, were conducting a road block exercise under “Operation Clean Sweep”, during which the cyclist reportedly breached

the cordon and collided with Samuels.

As a result of the collision, both men fell to the roadway and sustained injuries.

They were picked up and taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital but due to the condition of Samuels, he was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he is said to be in a critical condition. Police are continuing their investigations into the accident.

Despite challenges

IPED performed “satisfactorily” in 2016 – Chairman

D

espite challenges being faced by the local economy, the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) has managed to perform “satisfactorily” in 2016, by processing 4,459 loans compared to 4,086 in 2015 -- an increase of 373 applications, which were valued at $2.3 billion.

During the 2016 Annual General Meeting (AGM), IPED Chairman Dr Yesu Persaud said the year was challenging for IPED and its beneficiaries, as they navigated through the adjustments being made to the economy. However, he noted that these changes are now better understood by entrepreneurs.

“IPED’s resilience through the period of difficulties mentioned before is a reflection of its quality leadership and workforce.

Despite the challenges experienced in the year, the overall performance of IPED was satisfactory,” Chairman Yesu Persaud explained.

Dr Persaud revealed that IPED recorded $470.9 million net interest income in 2016, compared to $552 million in 2015. Among applications processed, 38 percent were for female beneficiaries, 13 percent were for persons below age 30, and 77 percent did not require real estate. Approximately 45 percent of applicants were within the agriculture sector, and 92 percent were from rural communities.

The AGM was also told that increased activities resulted in growth of the gross loans portfolio from $2.24 billion in 2015 to $2.47 bil-

Chairman of IPED, Dr Yesu Persaud

lion in 2016, which marked a 10 percent overall growth.

IPED also experienced an improvement in its arrears, as portfolio at risk more than 30 days due was 23 percent at December 2016, compared to 26 percent at December 2015.

Despite this slight improvement, the IPED chairman pointed out, arrears remained high. Due to this, IPED was required to make what he described as an “impairment provision” of $100 million, or 17 percent of the portfolio at risk more than 30 days at December 31, 2016, compared to a provision of $89 million or 15 percent of portfolio at risk at December 31, 2015.

In addition to the financial support offered to micro and small businesses, the Entrepreneurial Development Centre, a department of IPED, provided training to 306 students for the Institute of Commercial Management (ICM) in 2016, and facilitated corporate training for 42 persons.

The institute also provided

training to 645 small and micro clients in several other areas.

Dr Persaud said IPED’s financial performance is a reflection of the decline in loan activities in 2015 and early 2016. The total interest income declined by $100 million, from $573 million in 2015 to reach $473 million in 2016; while investment and other income decreased by $13 million.

Total financial and operating expense was $454 million in 2016, compared to $463 million in 2015.

“We are proud of our history and contribution towards the development of Guyana through the continued support of more than 4,000 enterprises that sustain approximately 10,000 jobs on an annual basis.

During our 31 years of existence, we have disbursed in excess of 104,000 loans to micro and small enterprises for a value of more than $32 billion,” the IPED chairman added.

IPED was established on October 2, 1985 as a company limited by guarantee, and a non-profit and tax exempt organisation formed to promote and encourage the development and growth of industry through the provision of business guidance, technical assistance, non-traditional credit facilities to small entrepreneurs or to groups; and generally to promote and encourage the development and growth of all other economic activities designed to improve the social and economic welfare of the people of Guyana.

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wednesDAY, august 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Assassination claim

Motion defeated to have Chang removed Escalating… … on grounds of conflict of interest Y A …authoritarianism

ttorney Selwyn Pieters, on behalf of Travis Chase, filed a motion to have retired Chief Justice Ian Chang removed as Counsel for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) due to conflicts of interest, including being a possible witness in the proceedings.

However, Paul Slowe, Chairman of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the plot to assassinate President David Granger, denied the motion.

The Attorney had argued that the Legal Practitioners Act Chapter 4:01 of the Laws of Guyana provides that an attorney shall not devise or represent more than one interest in a matter nor shall he act or continue to act in a matter when there is or is likely to be a conflicting interest; which includes, but is not limited to the financial interest of the attorney or his associate, and his du-

Retired Chief Justice Ian Chang

ties and the loyalties of the attorney to any other client or prospective client, including the obligation to communicate information.

Andrif Gillard, who alleges that he was offered $7 million to kill the President, while giving his testimony on July 21, said that he would like to put Chang

on the stand as a witness.

Pieters used Gillard’s testimony as the basis of his motion.

“The character of these people, so the public should know that any, everybody Mr Imran Khan, Mr Nizam Khan is connected to the mining pit tragedy,” Gillard told the Commission. He went on to say that, “These two guys [Imran and Nizam Khan] just wicked because they know they have the law behind them, so they can do anybody anything they feel like. I think these two men in this country are the reason for corruption, because they have the three most reliable, strong backing, the Chief Justice could stop any court matter, the DPP can cancel any station file or file that went to the court and the Commissioner of Police, the assistant, this gentleman here Mr Ian Chang.

These are powerful men,

they are friends of course, but they know not the evil demon that they are creating, and people in our community and our Guyanese are suffering.”

Pieters also argued that Chang could bring the administration of justice into disrepute, adding that Chang has acted a reference for one of the Khan brother’s in a gun licence application.

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud hired Chang to represent the interest of the GPF in the proceedings.

Travis Chase became a party in the CoI after he was summoned to appear since he did a television interview with Gillard following the allegations against Nizam Khan. Chase had submitted a DVD copy of the interview to the Police to assist with their investigation before airing the interview on his newscast.

The CoI continues today.

Man charged for attempted murder of friend

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ive days after he attempted to end a five-year friendship when he decided to allegedly pull the trigger at Virtual Complainant (VC) Hubert Blair, Osafa “Safo” Swair was slapped with an attempted murder charge when he appeared before the court of Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Monday morning.

The charge read that the accused, on July 26, discharged a loaded firearm at Blair, with the intention to murder him.

An unrepresented Swair was not required to plead to the indictable charge and was remanded to the Lusignan Prison pending the outcome of the trial, which is expected to commence shortly.

The accused told the court that he resided in Hadfield Street, Lodge and was employed by a city welding shop.

Prosecutor Arvin Moore relayed a synopsis of the incident as he told the court that the parties were known to each other and the accused was positively identified by the victim.

Police are yet to re-

cover the weapon used in the shooting and as such, the prosecution is fearful that the accused will tamper with evidence and witnesses in the event that he is released on bail. These were the grounds for bail to be objected to by the prosecution and as such, Swair was remanded.

The matter continues on August 18.

our Eyewitness, writing this on “Emancipation Day”, is struck by the irony of having to comment about the Government curtailing the most important freedom of all: the right over one’s property. Government obviously sees “emancipation” as just “dressing up”. The most invidious characteristic of slavery was not just that planters owned slaves, but that the slaves couldn’t own anything. This has led to the structural condition that still channels the descendants of slaves into “conspicuous consumption”. If you couldn’t own and pass down anything to your children, why save?

In its latest example of escalating authoritarianism, the PNC-led coalition Government just introduced a Bill that would COMPEL private broadcasters to broadcast 1 hour of Government programming every day of the week.

The Government is using the excuse that broadcasters are licensed all over the world and they’re also “regulated”.

So far, so good. But the Government is disingenuously ignoring that, everywhere, such ‘regulation” is only introduced to serve the public good.

And, as a matter of fact, the Government has to explicitly show how the public interest is being furthered by the particular “regulation”. “Public interest” announcements?? No problem!! All broadcasters understand that the public must be informed about emergencies and suchlike? But the Government “messages” are over and beyond these. Government will be sole arbiters of what they will broadcast - and when they will broadcast it!! This is the action of a Government that is determined to control the thoughts of the citizenry.

And it’s not like the Government doesn’t have its own avenues to broadcast its messages. In fact, this was the reason offered when the then PNC government nationalised the broadcasting industry back in the day. So here it is, the Government owned TV and radio stations - which are heavily subsidised by taxpayers’ dollars - compete with private broadcasters for commercials - and those private broadcasters must now broadcast the Government’s propaganda? Pleease!!

What makes it worse is that, all over the world, regulations over broadcasting are being loosened because of the proliferation of new means of disseminating information - such as the Internet. To rub salt into the open wound, this MULTIPLICATION of distribution channels for information is being exploited to the hilt by the government, and every Ministry has followed the Ministry of the Presidency in fielding massive public relations units. The GINA websites and social media are already flooded with Government propaganda.

The Government doesn’t allow the Opposition equal access to its broadcasting channels, and so already enjoys an unreasonable advantage.

There’s definitely some imperative operating beyond just broadcasting the Government’s messages.

It’s just another step in creating “Big Brother” in Guyana.

…prison challenges

Sounding rather chuffed about the 13 prisoners who’ve been recaptured from the 17 who eased their way out of the Camp St and Lusignan jails, Public Security Ministry Ramjattan cautioned, “We’re not out of the woods as yet.” Your Eyewitness wondered whether he was signalling (“wink, wink”) that the four hardened criminals from Camp St - murderers all - are now in our jungle (“woods”).

After all, these four fellas are the ones who planned and executed the conflagration that brought down the curtains on the ancient jail in the middle of our (notso-fair) city. They wouldn’t have such a detailed and elaborate breakout plan, and would not have a hideout in mind, would they? Don’t forget the Bartica and Lusignan murder convict (28 victims?) Mark Royden traversed the “woods” of the Hilly Sand and Clay belt after the Bartica bloodbath.

Or was Ramjattan just being figurative and signalling us that there’s still a lot to be done before the situation is brought under control?

In that case then, he’s the king of understatement!!

…Venezuelan crisis

So Maduro was able to have a “Constituent Assembly” elected so he can change the Venezuelan Constitution?

OK. Now, will he change Art 8, which fixes their ridiculous claims on our Essequibo??

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wednesDAY, august 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

NICIL’s financial performance reflective of Govt’s mismanagement – PPP/C

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n observing recent media reports about the poor financial performance of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has criticised Government, saying the agency’s performance is reflective of two years of mismanagement.

The PPP/C said in a statement that under its leadership, the Privatisation Unit of NICIL contributed tens of billions of dollars to the Treasury from dividends and privatisation receipts.

However, under the coalition Government, NICIL’s finances have been allowed to dwindle due to grave mismanagement and neglect. It was also noted that legal proceedings involving billions of dollars against the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)/Alliance For Change (AFC) are not being actively pursued.

“Valuable real estate that could have been sold or rented are poorly managed and are allowed to deteriorate,” the Opposition PPP further pointed out.

The Party said given the billions of dollars NICIL contributed to the Treasury, it is still to be known, “How much has been transferred under APNU and where the audited accounts are.”

NICIL produced and laid in Parliament clean audit reports, for both NICIL and its subsidiaries, up to the time that the PPP left Government. As such, the Party is now questioning what APNU/AFC has done.

NICIL CEO Horace James

The PPP recalled that when former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran’s report on NICIL was handed back to him, it contained over 100 plus pages of responses. However, the APNU/AFC has never published these responses or similar type responses to the many forensic audits.

It was however noted that the Privatisation Unit has published details on all its transactions, including details relating to transparency and transaction values.

Under the PPP the Party said, NICIL made economic contributions and investments and loss-making entities were restructured, privatised or improved and NICIL found ways to ensure that its assets were properly managed and contributing financial and economic returns.

“Under the PPP, NICIL was not handed a golden spoon – it was innovative and created substantial val-

ue; it investments were not white elephants like the D’Urban Park project,” the PPP statement said.

The Opposition party said if NICIL’s investments in the Berbice Bridge, Marriott or Skeldon Energy have not performed in accordance with its feasibilities, there is a clear connection with how the APNU/ AFC policy decisions, incompetence, or action, have directly contributed to any sub-par performance.

“The PPP calls on these matters to be debated in the National Assembly and for APNU to provide all relevant information,” the statement added.

Saving bauxite

The Opposition said NICIL/PU was relentless in saving the bauxite industry, where hundreds of millions of dollars were injected to maintain the operations in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) from Linmine, Bermine and then Aroaima Bauxite.

Even after privatisation, from 2004, the now acting Chief Executive Officer of NICIL, Horace James, and a large secretariat, were maintained and funded by NICIL to ensure that all matters relating to Linmine were fully addressed and that maximum development was achieved.

“No one mentions these today. Government similarly injected billions of dollars for decades. Linden residents receive electricity at highly subsidised rates today relative to the consumers who pay GPL for power, including power generated

by SEI of almost 90 billion KWH,” the PPP noted.

The party said for decades monies were used for support; saving jobs and keeping bauxite alive.

Despite the Marriott, Berbice Bridge and Skeldon Energy Inc as described as “blunders” by NICIL, the PPP/C said Marriott today provides many jobs and is the largest taxpayer in the hospitality sector.

“It is no secret that the Marriott project was handicapped when the APNU/ AFC Government shelved completion of the casino that was going to be operated by Marriott; funding was already arranged from Republic Bank but it was delayed by court proceedings filed by an APNU Member of Parliament.”

The party said shortly after the APNU/AFC took office, the coalition Government immediately withdrew the legal proceedings and signed the debenture – yet the monies were never utilised to complete the casino and reimburse NICIL for its investment.

No blunder

In respect of Skeldon Energy Inc (SEI), the Guyana Suagr Corporation (GuySuCo) is yet to trans-

fer the energy assets, which have been held up by its Chairman Clive Thomas. The Opposition party believes therefore that GuySuCo should pay back the monies advanced

by GPL and NICIL, since Clive Thomas has breached this agreement.

A few months ago, SEI Chairman Lloyd Rose ex-

the Berbice Bridge Project, the PPP/C said when it left office in May 2015, NICIL had no investments in the Berbice Bridge.

However the coalition Government attacked the Berbice Bridge project and breached the agreements with the many Private Sector investors.

The Party also thinks

The National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited head office

posed that GuySuCo had never transferred the assets that GPL and NICIL had paid for. The PPP/C said that means that the US$20 million plus in funds paid by GPL and GuySuCo, have benefited the 50,000 persons that are affected by GuySuCo. In making reference to

Government was simply playing politics when it reduced tolls, especially since in less than one year, it passed on massive tax increases and fees including the Demerara Bridge toll increase, and attempted to push through the Parking Meter Contract.

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wednesdAY, august 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Emotionally disturbed Guyanese shot dead in NY

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n emotionally disturbed US-based Guyanese was on Monday shot dead by officers attached to the NYPD after it was alleged that he attacked them with a kitchen knife in his Brooklyn apartment.

The dead man has been identified as 32-year-old Dwayne Jeune of Flatbush Gardens Apartment Complex, NY and of Lot 433 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara.

He was shot once to the chest by an officer, who only last year was involved in a similar fatal shooting.

Fox News reported that the man was acting erratic and as such, his mother was forced to contact the Police.

However, as the Police ranks arrived at the scene, Jeune allegedly charged at them with his kitchen knife resulting in one rank

Dead: Dwayne Jeune

deploying a Taser which proved ineffective. It was at this time that another rank discharged a round, mortally hitting the mentally ill man.

The now dead man was no stranger to his neighbours who recalled hear-

ing odd behaviour, but no violent outbursts. The now dead man left Guyana in 1992 and only last year became a US citizen.

His sister, Glenda Jeune, who resides in Guyana explained that her brother was an easy going person and totally the opposite of how he was described by the media.

“He was caring, loving and a very calm individual… He reaches out to his family and I am not too sure what went on before he was shot dead,” the sister noted.

She however, received the news of her brother’s demise on Monday afternoon and was told that the shooting incident took place around 14:00h in the presence of her mother.

The aggrieved sister explained that her brother was distressed and in

such a situation, her mother would call 911 and the paramedics would take him to get his medication.

However, on the day in question, the ranks who responded to the call, barged into the house using a bright torch light.

“My mother told me that she was sitting with my brother when the cops entered the house… they had a bright light… they shine the light in her face and she couldn’t see so she moved away from her son a little and it was then she heard two gunshots,” the sister related.

After hearing the gunshots, her mother went into the room because she was scared but later came out and it was then she realised that her son was killed.

“My mother said that at no point in time, my brother attacked the Police with a knife… the knife was in the kitchen and it is believed that after my mother was escorted out of the house, the Police ranks planted the knife and to make it look as if it he attacked them”.

The family, she noted, is in disarray as a result of the shooting incident and have since contacted a lawyer to look into the case, since they believe the man was murdered.

A year ago, the trigger-friendly Police rank had killed a mentally ill woman whom he claimed had attacked him.

His Master’s Voice

S

atiricus, as usual of late, was girding his loins to enter the Back Street Bar. With the fellas cutting him no slack because his fearless leader, Rum Jhaat, was under fire for presiding over not one, but THREE prison crises, he knew what was ahead. So he was surprised, when he sat back after chugging his first cool one, that Bungi asked, “Ah wha schupidness Nagga Man deh pan now?”

“What exactly are you talking about?” asked Satiricus with some relief, as he clinked glasses with Bungi and Hari.

“Was he caught drinking in public again?” asked Hari. “It’s Emancipation, you know! The man had to take his libations!!”

“Na da!” said Bungi. “Me ah talk ‘bout how ‘e wan’ fo’ce all dem TV an’ Radyo stay-shan fuh play wha’ de guvment wan’ dem fuh play!”

“Oh, you mean the Broadcast Bill Nagga Man introduced in Parliament?” asked Satiricus, trying to reorient his thoughts from escaped murderers on the run.

“Yes, da wha’ me a talk about,” agreed Bungi.

“Nagga Man waan all dem private stay-shan fuh braadcyaas wha’ ‘e guvment waan fuh seh!”

“What’s wrong with that?” asked Satiricus.

“Governments have to get their message to the people!”

“But de Guvment waan de stay-shan fuh braad-cyaas dem message fuh free!!” Bungi pointed out.

“So, it’ll be OK with you if the Government pays?” asked Hari, trying to smooth things over as usual.

“Well de appasition PPCEE gat fuh pay de guvment stay-shan,” said Bungi. “Do fuh do na obeah!”

“But the Government and the Opposition are not the same,” protested Satiricus. “The Government run their station!”

“Me na know ‘bout da,” replied Bungi. “Ah abee tax money ah spen’ pan de guvment stay-shan” Satiriucs thought it best not to say anything further.

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wednesDAY, august 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Upgraded security systems for new Camp Street Prison

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hile there was already a security system in place at the time of the July 9, 2017 Camp Street Prison fire, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan said on Monday that Government will be seeking to improve the system when the new holding buildings are constructed.

Speaking to journalists at a press conference at his Brickdam office, Ramjattan said “we plan to upgrade the security system for those who will be in the new brick prison and the infirmary and administrative buildings prefabricated as they are will come there. We will have to enhance the camera system and all the other security surveillance equipment,” he said.

Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels said on Monday that at the time of the fire, systems were already in place. In fact, during the fire persons were on the ground upgrading the system, he told journalists.

Funding for the new security systems is included in the $756 million supplementary funding requested by Government for rehabilitative works to be carried out on both the Georgetown and Lusignan Prisons. Security at the Camp Street Prison will

cost some $62 million.

Meanwhile, pressed about the whereabouts of the gun used in the shooting incident on the afternoon of the fire, Samuels said as far as he is aware, there is no information that shows where the prisoner got the handgun from. Up to this point also, the gun has not been retrieved.

“Because of the magnitude of the fire, I assume that the handgun could have been totally destroyed. The method also used to remove the debris could have also resulted in it being removed undetected.

Efforts were made to comb the area to find the gun,” Samuels said.

Police are working on information obtained from several injured prison wardens that ex-officer, Uree Varswyk had used a gun to shoot four of them. Questions still linger about the events that led to prison warden Odinga Wickham’s shooting to death and the injuring of his colleagues.

Samuels revealed that it was ex-Police Officer and murder accused, Uree Varswyk who shot four of the injured officers.

Officer Jason Maltay was stationed in the Administrative building while officer Hubert Trim said

Trio freed on gun possession charge

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hree men who were implicated on an illegal gun find in a car trunk from December last year were on Monday absolved of their crime at the Wales Magistrate’s Court.

Thomas King, 26 and Brutus Taylor, 28 both of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), and Eccles, EBD resident Ezekiel Williams walked free after the court’s assessment of the evidence and witness statements could not find the trio guilty as charged.

Police contended that on the night of December 11, 2016, the three men were en route to East Bank Demerara in a motorcar driven by 26-year old King when they were stopped by a police team of officers at the Demerara Harbour Bridge at Meer Zorgen, West Bank Demerara. It was alleged that police found the weapon in the rear passenger seat of the car which King operates as a taxi based in the Diamond Housing Scheme.

The men not deny that a weapon was found but they disputed the account of the Police and how they weapon got in the car and where it was found. Taylor who had lived Diamond for the past 12 years told Magistrate Nurse from the witness box on Monday that he never knew or had ever seen the taxi operator before December 11, 2016. He maintained that he was just a passenger who was returning from visiting his sick father who lives at Good Intent, WBD. Taylor, who works in the interior, said that after visiting his father he went to the Bow George Beer Garden at

a Barbeque where he bought some food and a Vitamalt beverage. Taylor told the court that as no bus had traversed the area at the time, his friend flagged down a passing car which happened to be the one driven by the Diamond taxi operator, Taylor King.

“My friend flagged down the car, I sat at the back of the driver’s seat,” the interior worker claimed. He recalled Ezekiel Williams being picked up at a gas station in La Grange, near the Harbour Bridge. It was moments after that they were stopped, searched and were taken to the La Grange Police Station after the gun was found.

Under cross examination by police prosecutor, Sergeant Campbell, Taylor rejected the suggestion that he came from Diamond with King over to WBD. He maintained that no ammunition was found next to him.

Ezekiel Williams asked by the prosecution to account for his reasons for being on the opposite side of the river, disclosed that he was “visiting a girl” at La Grange. He too disagreed with the suggestion that he had traveled with the taxi driver to WBD. Meanwhile, car driver, Thomas King claimed that the gun was placed in his car trunk. He also out rightly rejected the suggestion that he was near the car, bracing upon it when ranks conducted the search.

Magistrate Nurse handed down the decision just after midday, allowing the men to walk free into the awaiting arms of supportive relatives.

The trio were out on bail prior to Monday’s decision.

he was beaten and stabbed about the body by prisoner Shawn Collins. He also confirmed that he was chopped

by Bartica massacre convict Mark Royden Williams, who is also known as “Mark Durant” and “Smallie”.

The media was told that all four prison officers corroborated the account of the ex-Policeman shooting them.

Prison officers believe Williams was the mastermind of the riot which led to the escape of several prisoners from Camp Street; three of whom remain on the run. Another prisoner who was transferred to Lusignan remains on the run.

As it relates to the shortage of officers at the prison, efforts are being made to address the staffing situation.

According to Samuels, the recruitment board has already interviewed a few persons but the training school is currently being used to house staff providing additional support at the Lusignan Prison. “It will be unfair for us to bring raw civilians off the road and put them there,” he said.

Region 2 residents concerned over unreliable ferry service

B

usinessmen as well as passengers utilising the ferry service in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are concerned over the variation of the ferry schedule. Passengers who spoke with Guyana Times expressed their dissatisfaction with the unreliable service.

One passenger explained that the timing for the departure of the ferry varies, and no one from the relevant authority is explaining what the problem is. The passenger explained that often times when passengers show up for a specific time – as advertised by the advisory issued by the Public Infrastructure Ministry – they are told that the boat already left or they have to wait an extra hour. The frustrated passenger explained that the inefficient system causes great inconveniences, as many persons utilising the ferry service often have appointments.

The Essequibo ferry service

Bus operators have also echoed similar sentiments, explaining that whenever they carry passengers to the stelling, sometimes the boat would have already departed, leaving passengers either stranded or having to return home.

“If they have the boat leaving 17:00 hours let it leave then. Why leave earlier or one hour after, it’s great inconvenience when you condition yourself to suit a time and then everything changes,” a passenger related.

A businessman related to this publication that he had

a truck loaded with plucked chicken enroute for the North West District and the boat was delayed, resulting into him having to pay hotel fee for the driver as well as to purchase ice for the chicken.

Residents as well as businesspersons are therefore calling on Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson to intervene, as many persons depend on the ferries to conduct their business, since it is more affordable and a safer option to speed boats.

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wednesDAY, august 2, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Emancipation celebrations

Guyanese call for unity, freedom from ‘mental slavery’

By Lakhram Bhagirat

D

ecked in traditional African garb, thousands of Guyanese took to the National Park to join in the African Cultural Development Association’s (ACDA’s) annual Emancipation Day celebrations; and a resounding call was made for emergence of a unified Guyana and for Guyanese to free themselves from the

The atmosphere was one of unity as persons from all ethnicities, donning traditional African wear, occasioned a veritable explosion of flamboyant colours at the National Park, creating a kaleidoscope that was appropriately complemented with a wide variety of delicious food, exquisite craft, and educational materials.

Several present and former Government officials

These two youngsters all decked out in their traditional African garb engage in the art of druming at the Emancipation festival

shackles of mental slavery.

Bob Marley famously sang: “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds”, in his track titled Redemption Song, and that was the message that resonated with the gathering at the National Park on Tuesday.

attended the celebration, and interacted with the attendees and exhibitors.

Former Prime Minister Sam Hinds described Emancipation Day as an occasion to reflect on the period of slavery and the struggles that were associated with emancipation.

“That period of African

slavery was particularly horrible, and the challenge for us people of African descent is to establish that we are like others. We should be unified in everything we do,” Hinds said.

This year marks 179 years since African slaves were emancipated after a long and hard struggle with the plantation owners.

Denise Garraway told Guyana Times that she uses the day to reflect on the struggles of her ancestors. She said that celebration of the day has so progressed that it embraces the culture and displays the pride of the African slaves.

“We must emancipate ourselves, not just from slavery, but from mental slavery. The chains were taken off from our hands and feet, but they are still around our brains; so we need to emancipate ourselves, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually,” Garraway advised.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife, Sita, were at the cdelebrations.

“I suspect that the emphasis is more on cultural and exploring who you are,” the PM expressed. “There is a very rich portrayal of culture, language and dance.

There is a fusion and mixture of the cultures, and it contributes to social cohesion. Our variety is our beauty, and you can build national and social cohesion based on this variety,” the Prime Minister said.

Several families had

message today to everybody is to rededicate themselves today and onwards to living in happiness and prosperity, and keep working together to make Guyana great again,” Patterson related.

Cook-up rice competition

Desmond Wray and his family

gathered at the Park for cookouts, mostly of cook-up rice. One of those persons, Desmond Wray, told this publication that he uses the occasion to deck himself and family members in their traditional garb, and spend quality time embracing their culture while reflecting on the sacrifices associated with their freedom.

During a tour of the booths, Guyana Times caught up with Public

Infrastructure Minister David Patterson, and he said August 1st should be used as a celebration to reflect on the struggles faced to take Guyana to the state it is currently in.

“It is a day (when) we remember the struggles our forefathers would have gone through to leave us this beautiful country, and the responsibility we due them for the struggles and sacrifices they made. My

Capitalising on the goodness of Emancipation Day, Chief Brand products hosted its inaugural Cook-up rice Competition.

Participants competed in three categories, namely ital (vegetarian), no pork, and obstacle rice -- a combination of a variety of meats.

Each participant was required to use the Chief Brand seasonings along with Lasco coconut milk powder in the preparation of their meal.

Tami Ramdeen, Chief Brand Representative, told this publication that the main criterion for judging was taste, but points would be awarded for presentation and smell.

Each participant was awarded a food hamper, with the winners in each category taking home $50,000 cash as a prize and a ‘ginormous’ food hamper.

President urges Guyanese to honour ancestors by preserving legacy

Worshippers at the Glory Light Tabernacle in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara decked out in their African wear as they sang praise and worship songs at the Sunrise Worship Breakfast on Tuesday morning

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peaking at the Glory Light Tabernacle’s annual Sunrise Worship Breakfast in the East Coast village of Plaisance on Tuesday morning, President David Granger called on the pastor and congregation of the Glory Light Tabernacle to ensure that the community remembers their ancestors who made the village a reality while showing the present generation the heights that can be achieved with hard work and commitment.

Granger urged the gathering to lead the way to hold a prayer service for this village this year, the 175th anniversary and reminded the populace that the task of nation-building does not end with the 89,000 persons, who fought and won their liberation. “Nation-building is a continuous process. We have to carry on the work that they started but we have to evaluate our efforts,” the President posited.

While recognising that the freed slaves were poor and uneducated, the Head of State noted that they were rich in their understanding of their responsibility to maintain their families; the sole reason why they pooled their resources and started the Village Movement.

Within the first decade post-Emancipation, freed slaves purchased 15,000 acres of land at the value of $1 million, which they transformed into communities overtime; Plaisance which sits on approximately 300 acres of land, purchased by 65 persons in 1842.

“This nation’s ancestors purchased these villages. They helped to transform what was then a series of plantations into a nation…

We have inherited a beautiful gift and I urge you to celebrate that gift. I urge you on this Emancipation Day to consider what would

have been going through the minds of your ancestors 179 years ago when they gained their freedom. They saw their freedom as an instrument not to have fun, but as an instrument to make their children and grandchildren happy for eternity,” the President said.

Moreover, he told residents that the best way to pay homage to their ancestors would be by preserving the four pillars of a strong community, which was bestowed upon them by the people who endured the inhumane horror of slavery.

The annual event was well attended by members of the community in patriotically attired in colourful African prints, as a special tribute to the rich culture that was brought to Guyana by their predecessors. In attendance were Attorney General Basil Williams and Chairperson of Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), Genevieve Allen.

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News

Integrity Commission filings

Criminal charges stymied as Govt refuses to release names – Edghill

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t has been more than one month since Opposition Member of Parliament Bishop Juan Edghill had dispatched to the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP) a request for the names of those members of Parliament who were delinquent in submitting their declarations to the Integrity Commission, but he is yet to be supplied the information.

Edghill had requested this information after the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had signalled its intention to bring criminal charges against members of Parliament who were recalcitrant in this respect. His request was made in accordance with the Access to Information Act. In a recent interview with Guyana Times, Edghill revealed that the MoTP, reluctant to place this information in the public domain, is consequently stymieing the pursuit of holding Members of Parliament accountable.

“I have not even received an acknowledgement of my letter, even though it was personally delivered to the office of the permanent secretary and an identifiable staff member signed an acknowledgement note saying it was received,” Edghill disclosed.

“So I have not received a reply to the letter; I have not even received an acknowledgement to the letter.

“The next step is that we will have to pursue the matter based upon what the Act provides for in the event of a public authority not providing the information requested. Then it is a matter for the Commissioner of Information to intervene,” he explained.

Edghill explained that, out of the expectation that the Ministry of the Presidency would have acceded to his request for information, he has not as yet written to the Minister of

Information, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, in regard to the information requested.

“Maybe the reason we have been met with this silence is that, in my letter, I stated that this information, once received, would be used for the filing of private criminal charges,” he suggested during the interview.

Edghill made it clear that the party needs the list of names in order to take appropriate action. According to the parliamentarian, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency is the competent authority to answer the questions solicited under the law.

“I guess some of the persons whose names may be on the list may or may not be influencing the flow of information, but we have to wait and see. The bottom line is (that) this is information that should have been public, because the Act requires the publication of the names on a website or in a public place,” he explained.

Letter

In the letter he had sent to the MoTP, a copy of which had been released to the media, Edghill had indicated that the information being requested was intended to be used in the pursuit of private criminal charges against identified delinquents, who had failed to file declarations with the Integrity Commission in accordance with section 22 of the Integrity Commission Act of 1997.

The Opposition Parliamentarian had asked for the names of the PNCR Parliamentarians of the 8th and 9th Parliaments who had failed to submit to the Integrity Commission of Guyana the statutorily required Schedule iii declaration forms (2), disclosing the incomes, assets and liabili-

PPP MP Juan Edghill

ties of themselves and immediate family members for the years 2001 to 2006 and 2006 to 2011.

Edghill is also requesting information on APNU Parliamentarians in the 10th Parliament who had failed to submit to the Integrity Commission of Guyana the statutorily required Schedule iii declaration forms (2) disclosing the incomes, assets and liabilities of themselves and immediate family members for the years 2011 to 2015.

Responsible for the accountability of persons holding public office, the Integrity Commission has for some time been without a Chairman, and has reportedly been functioning with a skeleton staff.

Before Edghill’s letter was dispatched, the Integrity Commission Chairman had appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and admitted that the Integrity Commission had essentially been dismantled by the coalition Government, and then had only one staff member at the Commission’s Secretariat.

This comes even as Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, on numerous prior occasions, had called out Government for refusing to support an Opposition sponsored-motion to have all parliamentarians make certain submissions to the Integrity Commission.

90% juvenile offenders denied legal representation – RCC …pro bono public defenders in the pipelines

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he Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) has recently indicated that 90 per cent of the total juvenile offenders detained at holding centres across the county were previously denied their fundamental rights to legal representation.

This was prior to an intervention of the RCC which now allows for the residents at the institutions to be properly counselled and represented when in contact with the law.

The RCC back in 2015 launched a Personal Development and Leadership Programme, aimed at developing the capacity of underage offenders held at the New Opportunity Corps at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast and the Sophia Juvenile Holding Centre in Georgetown.

The implementation of the rehabilitation effort seeks to reintegrate the young transgressors as productive members of society while engaging the detainees in discussion and training sessions.

It was during the execution of this initiative that the Commission unearthed an alarming breach of fundamental rights which has left the youths apprehended at these facilities without legal representation or advice for a number of years.

“We have diagnosed a most flagrant breach, that is, children resident at the holding centre, awaiting trial in the courts of Guyana, were denied their access to Article 30 of the CRC; that is the access to legal representation.

This is a serious violation of child rights that was diagnosed by the RCC.” Those were the sentiments of the Chief Executive Officer of the Rights of the Child Commission, Amernauth Panday who went on to say that RCC has since

Members of the Rights of the Child Commission joined by a representative of the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic during the press conference

embarked on efforts to afford these young people the opportunity of accessing proper legal aid.

As such, the Commission has since engaged the Guyana Police Force and the Public Security Minister to ensure that the youths are made aware of their rights from the time they are being detained.

Moreover, the RCC has entered into a partnership with the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic and has since been able to offer counsel to the underage offenders held at Essequibo, Sophia and even Timehri, East Bank Demerara on a weekly basis.

Panday noted that the RCC through their partnership with the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic has secured funding from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to facilitate regular visits to the correctional centres in Georgetown, Essequibo and even Timehri. These will be conducted by lawyers attached to the pro bono clinic.

The CEO, in highlighting the need for such provisions, noted that most of the detainees are below the age of 18, and as such, are in need for legal counsel from the professionals.

However, he did indicate that this arrangement is not infinite and will come to an end once the funding is depleted.

On that note, Panday pointed out that RCC is work-

ing on introducing other avenues which will provide the necessary legal and judicial assistance to those at the correctional institutions, on a more permanent basis.

“We (RCC) have met with the Minister of Public Security wherein we proposed the establishment of a Public Defenders Office whose mandate would be to provide legal representation to the children of Guyana and to other vulnerable segments of society,” relayed Panday.

The CEO went on to say that the Minister has endorsed the proposal and as such they are awaiting preparation for yet another non-profitable office to supplement the work of Legal Aid in representing the juvenile offenders.

Adding to that, Panday also indicated that they have also proposed a second option which is to increase the subventions of the Legal Aid Clinic so that their attachments to the detention facilities can continue even after the UN funding has been exhausted.

Prior to the intervention of the Rights of the Child Commission in collaboration with the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic, over 90 per cent of the child offenders held at three correctional centres were denied access to legal advice and representation.

Ever since 2015, an average of about 250 juvenile detainees has been counselled.

news

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Man charged for sexual Ramsammy’s Ruminations Political charade assault during ‘trance’ masquerading as – claims he was ‘having a sexual fantasy’ when he punched woman

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aul Smith was on Monday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a charge of unlawfully and maliciously wounding Tonya George at the route 45 minibus park on Croal Street on July 22, 2017 at about 10:20 hrs.

Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore related that, on the day in question, George was walking between two vehicles when she was unnerved by the accused staring at her. He eventually rushed towards her and delivered a punch to her face.

Dazed, she fell to the ground, and public-spirited citizens who came to her rescue rushed her to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where she was at-

tended to by a doctor before being sent away.

A report was made at the Brickdam Police Station, and Smith was arrested and charged with the offence.

Explaining to the court that he was having a sexual fantasy which was being interrupted by episodic flashes of being attacked by several burly men, an apparently mentally unstable Smith

rambled on that he had, in retaliation, lashed out at his attackers, consequently punching George to the face.

While telling the Chief Magistrate that he had apologised to the injured woman for his actions, Smith apparently lapsed into a trance and told the court he was a prominent city businessman; then, moments after, he declared he

was employed as a minibus conductor.

He was a pitiable sight to behold in the magistrate’s court, occasionally bending to pull up his trousers which several times had fallen to the floor, much to the distaste of occupants of the courtroom.

After hearing the defendant out, the Chief Magistrate ruled that, based on the explanation offered by the accused, the court could only reasonably conclude that he was of unsound mind. She thus ordered that Smith be taken to the Psychiatric Ward at the GPHC for evaluation prior to sentencing.

He returns before the Chief Magistrate on August 16.

Man charged for pocketing minibus driver’s cellphone

– while in front passenger seat

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nglington Harper of Garnett Street, Newtown, Georgetown was on Monday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, accused of pocketing minibus driver Clifton Wallace’s Samsung cellular phone valued at $180,000, on June 20, 2017 while he was a front seat passenger in the bus being driven by Wallace.

The information was

sworn to by Constable Sampson before the court.

According to the Police, on the day in question, the defendant was seated in the front passenger seat of a minibus on Regent Street when the driver exited the vehicle and left his phone charging in the minibus.

However, upon returning to the vehicle, he realised that his smartphone was missing. The incident was

reported to the Brickdam Police Station and the driver reportedly pointed out the accused to the police, thus an investigation was launched. Harper was subsequently charged with the offence.

Unrepresented by legal counsel, Harper denied the allegation and indicated that he has a fixed place of abode at Garnett Street, Newtown, Georgetown.

Owing to the non-violent nature of the offence, the fact that Police had no known criminal antecedents on the defendant, and because the prosecution did not object to the defendant being placed on bail, Harper was placed on $50,000 bail, and the matter was transferred before the magistrate presiding over Courts 10 and 11 for continuation on August 10.

WPA calls on Govt to restore order in the prison system

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aving two prison unrests in less than a year suggest there is need for a serious review of the local prison system, and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) – one of six parties that comprise A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – has expressed deep concern at this state of affairs, and has described it as a “growing crisis.”

Chairwoman of the WPA, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, has said the WPA feels that the recent jailbreaks are symptomatic of a breakdown in the administration of the penal system, and a manifestation of the larger problem of alienation and disarray in the wider society.

“We therefore urge the Government to -- as a matter of priority -- do everything necessary to halt the drift and restore order in the prison system,” she declared.

Sarabo-Halley claims the recent prison outbreaks are rooted in several causes, one being the overcrowding of the prisons and another being the terrible conditions

The Working People’s Alliance head office

that obtain in the prisons.

She said it could also have a lot to do with the poor remuneration of prison officers, the lengthy period persons spend being incarcerated while awaiting trial, and an indication that a small minority of officers has become compromised.

Sarabo-Halley said addressing these areas must be top priority, and she called on the authorities to mount an immediate campaign aimed at ridding the Prison Service of corrupt officers, and re-educating its officers on the importance of integrity.

The WPA, she said,

maintains that there is a link between poverty and alienation among the country’s youth and Guyana’s growing crime situation.

Accordingly, she has promised that the WPA would continue to advocate within and outside of Government for more social programmes that are aimed at bringing young people into the formal productive sectors.

Following unrest at the Camp Street Prison, blame for the events that led to the unrest there was laid solely at the feet of the David Granger-led Government.

That unrest resulted in the death of one prison officer,

several other officers and inmates sustaining injury, and several prisoners escaping from lawful custody.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had said “unbelievable incompetence” and “lack of accountability” were displayed by those with political responsibility for security and law-and-order in the country.

The Opposition has also accused the Government of keeping secret the contents of the final report of the presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that was commissioned to investigate the unrest, and being mum on its recommendations.

The Opposition has urged Guyanese to extend full support to the security services as they restore law and order in the country, and has reiterated that someone must be held accountable for the events.

In an effort to improve the services at these prisons, Government has requested $756M in supplementary funding, to effect works at both the Camp Street and Lusignan Prisons.

constitutional reform

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he A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change’s (APNU/ AFC) talk of constitutional reform is nothing more than a political charade. In the 30 months since they have been in Government, APNU/AFC has shown a blatant disregard for the Constitution of Guyana. The present attempt to establish a Commission, ostensibly for constitutional reform, is more of an assault Dr Leslie Ramsammy against Guyana's Constitution and a disavowal of the Standing Orders of Guyana's Parliament.

On July 27, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo still frantically searching for relevance, introduced the Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission Bill for its first reading in Parliament.

The Bill establishes a commission to conduct consultations aimed at constitutional review and reform. But it is foolish to think this Government is serious about constitutional reform. The Prime Minister was anointed since 2015 to lead consultations that will result in constitutional reforms. He got more than $80 million for this purpose in the 2017 Budget.

In 2016, he had a consultancy led by Nigel Hughes that was supposed to make recommendations about constitutional reform, but we have not heard anything about that.

Guyana's present Constitution already mandates continuous reviews and reforms of the Constitution. It is for this reason that the 2001 constitutional amendments established a Standing Committee on Constitutional Reform. The Committee as provided for by the Constitution is intended to lead continuous reviews and reforms of the Constitution. Between 2011 and 2015, President Granger, the then Leader of the Opposition, was Chairman of the Standing Committee on Constitutional Reform.

I was a member of this Special Committee between 2001 and 2015. Since 2015, Basil Williams, the Attorney General, has been the Chairman of this Committee.

While this Special Committee was established as a parliamentary committee, the Constitution and the Standing Orders of the Parliament provided for the inclusion of non-MPs in the work of the Committee. The Parliamentary Committee can invite experts and representatives from civic society to join it in carrying out consultations in and outside Parliament. Given that the Parliament is in accordance with the Constitution and its own Standing Orders already has established a constitutional reform committee, the question begs itself – why is the APNU/ AFC now establishing another such commission through a special law? What is it that this commission can do that the present parliamentary committee on constitutional reform cannot accomplish?

Nagamootoo and APNU/AFC are taking us on a journey spinning our wheels and going nowhere. The APNU/AFC is sidestepping the parliamentary process, rendering the Special Committee on Constitutional Reforms in Parliament a toothless poodle. APNU/AFC essentially killed the Special Committee on Constitutional Reform since 2011. Between 2011 and 2015, Granger as Chairman convened two meetings.

The first meeting lasted less than 15 minutes as we discussed how we will conduct our business. The second meeting lasted a bit longer when we decided that there were outstanding amendments resulting from the earlier constitutional commissions that still had to be accomplished. I was asked to make a list of the amendments that were completed and already incorporated into the Constitution in 2000 and 2001 and a list of those outstanding recommendations that still had to be inserted into the Constitution. I did, but the committee never met again. It is now almost 30 months since the 11th Parliament was convened and the new committee has never had a business meeting.

This demonstrates a total disregard for the process Guyana's Constitution mandates and the Standing Orders of Parliament provide for. Guyana's Constitution caters for its own reforms and its own updating and this process is being ignored and shoved aside and this in itself is unconstitutional. But no one should be shocked that the Constitution is under assault by APNU/AFC. Since May 2015, there is a lengthy list of disregards for the Constitution.

Granger's interpretation of the Constitution relating to the Chairman for GECOM is a deliberate and lawless act in contravention of the Constitution. APNU/AFC's failure to appoint the Local Government Commission as catered for by the Constitution is another flagrant disregard of their constitutional obligation. Last week they requested another $54 million for the Public Procurement Commission which was only appointed in November 2016, but to this date the Cabinet still approves contracts, an affront to the Constitution and the law. The Human Rights Commission is still to be appointed. Our UN obligations to amend the Constitution in relation to the death penalty, corporal punishment in our schools and LGBT Rights have been suspended. This is only a short list of the egregious assault on our Constitution. Clearly APNU/AFC is engaged in a political charade masquerading as constitutional reforms. We really are on a perilous political path.

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Regional

did not fight for freedom only to US imposes sanctions Ancestors have it snatched away by criminals – PM on Venezuela President P O n Monday, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated the President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, pursuant to an executive order that authorises sanctions against current or former officials of the Government of Venezuela and others undermining democracy in Venezuela.

These sanctions come a day after the Maduro Government held elections for a National Constituent Assembly (Asamblea Nacional Constituyente, or ANC) that the Treasury Department said aspires illegitimately to usurp the constitutional role of the democratically elected National Assembly, rewrite the Constitution, and impose an authoritarian regime on the people of Venezuela.

“As such, it represents a rupture in Venezuela’s constitutional and democratic order. The Maduro ad-

President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro

ministration has proceeded with the ANC even though Venezuelans and democratic governments worldwide have overwhelmingly opposed it as a fundamental assault on the freedoms of the Venezuelan people. The creation of the ANC follows years of Maduro’s efforts to undermine Venezuela’s democracy and the rule of law,” the Department said in a press release.

As a result of Monday’s

actions, all Maduro’s assets subject to US jurisdiction are frozen, and US persons are prohibited from dealing with him.

Nicolas Maduro was elected President of Venezuela on April 14, 2013, following the death of former President Hugo Chávez. Maduro held previous roles in the Venezuelan Government, including as Executive Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

TT husband to hang for killing ex-wife, lover

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jilted husband and his friend were sentenced to death by hanging on Monday, for soliciting and contracting a hitman to murder the man’s ex-wife and her lover for US$30,000 some 11 years ago.

Basdeo “Bas” Ramlochan and Siewkumar “Bobby” Chankapersad remained stone faced when Justice Malcolm Holdip twice sentenced them to death, but their relatives broke down in tears in the San Fernando First Assizes. Their sobs, however, escalated into piercing screams as they stepped out of the courtroom.

It took the 12-member jury less than an hour to return guilty verdicts against both men, who went on trial in May for the murders of Sunita “Michelle Ramlochan, 29, and her common-law husband Rahim “Bam” Abraham, 46, a car dealer.

The State’s case was not that Ramlochan and his friend Chankapersad

Siewkumar Chankapersad, foreground, and Basdeo Ramlochan are escorted from the San Fernando High Court on Monday, after they were both sentenced to hang for the murders of Ramlochan’s ex-wife Sunita Ramlochan and her common-law husband Rahim Abraham

pulled the trigger, but that they sought out and hired a hitman to do the killings. The actual killers, who shot the couple in the bedroom of their Fyzabad home on the night of October 15, 2006, are still at large.

The evidence was that Sunita, Abraham and her 11-year-old daughter, who is also Ramlochan’s child,

returned to their Kuldip Trace, St John’s Village, Avocat home around 11 pm after visiting the Divali Nagar site. They lived in a downstairs apartment at Sunita’s father’s home.

Sunita’s father, who lived upstairs, told the Police that five minutes after they got home he heard a bang and Sunita bawl “Oh God.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

rime Minister Andrew Holness, in his Emancipation Day message, has stressed the importance of safety for all Jamaicans, even as critics and supporters of the Government’s latest crime -fighting strategy eagerly await the declaration of the first Zones of Special Operation (ZOSO) under the recently passed law.

“No citizen who is paying extortion fees to open his little shop or to run his licensed taxi is enjoying the fruits of Emancipation. Our ancestors did not fight for our freedom only to have it snatched away by criminals who would keep us locked in our homes while they roam the streets freely to do evil. No, the Jamaican people deserve their full freedom. They deserve peace

Prime Minister Andrew Holness

and security. Our children must be free to study at nights and not be terrified by gunshots. They must be free to attend school in the day and go to extra classes in the late afternoon without any fear whatsoever,”

T

ics say is dominated by Government loyalists, said it had received intelligence reports alleging the two were trying to flee. The court also said that it had revoked Ledezma’s and López’s house arrest because they had made political statements.

The UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein, said he was “deeply concerned” that the pair had been taken back into custody. The move comes just

Jamaica Observer)

Brazil, Argentina prosecutors say Govts interfering in Odebrecht probe

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he top prosecutors of Brazil and Argentina are accusing their Governments of interfering in the creation of a joint anti-corruption task force to investigate bribes by the Odebrecht engineering group so that politicians, many of whom are under investigation, can themselves control the exchange of evidence.

Brazil’s Prosecutor General Rodrigo Janot said on Tuesday the two countries had agreed in June to set up a task force to allow the rapid and simultaneous investigation of bribes paid by Odebrecht, but the joint effort has not taken off.

“The task force is an essential tool without which we cannot join forces regionally to fight corruption,” he told reporters.

A statement issued late on Monday

by Janot and his Argentine counterpart, Alejandra Gils Carbo, accused the governments of their countries of interfering in the

effort to jointly investigate the Odebrecht bribe network.

“The main authorities for international legal cooperation – Brazil’s Justice Ministry and Argentina’s Foreign Ministry – have placed obstacles and made requisitions that are an undue interference in carrying out agreements signed by prosecutors of the two countries in the Odebrecht investigation,” the statement said.

“We hope the central governments support our efforts and urgently remove the obstacles that have been imposed,” it said.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Soldiers implicated in payroll scam at T&T Defence Force

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n intense investigation is underway within the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) after authorities uncovered TT$2 million (US$296,363) in salary overpayments.

A civilian attached to the payroll department and two officers were arrested after being interrogated at the weekend. Sources within the TTDF told the Trinidad Guardian that other officers could also face arrest.

The scheme was uncovered after the Defence Force

Venezuela key Opposition leaders seized after poll

wo Venezuelan Opposition leaders, Leopoldo López and Antonio Ledezma, have been re-arrested in a move condemned internationally. They were under house arrest after accusations of inciting violence during anti-government protests in 2014.

The two have been taken to Ramo Verde military jail, family members say.

The Supreme Court, which crit-

Holness stated.

He remarked further that emancipated communities are “safe zones”, where residents enjoy all the civil liberties enshrined in democratic society. He added that emancipation cannot be sustainable without economic growth, which means that people have access to work, education, health care, housing and adequate community amenities.

The Prime Minister, in emphasising the link between Emancipation and economic liberty and the importance of the rule of law, said: “Today, we carry on that mandate of advancing economic liberty, while protecting and promoting the rule of law, in the interest of the people.” (Excerpt from

two days after a controversial vote for a constitutional assembly saw violence on the streets, with at least 10 people killed.

President Nicolás Maduro convened the assembly to rewrite Venezuela’s Constitution amid spiralling anti-government protests on May 1. He argued that the move would create peace and foster dialogue by bringing together different sectors of Venezuela’s polarised so-

ciety.

But the opposition accused the president of trying to rewrite the constitution in order to maximise his power and sideline the Oppositioncontrolled legislature.

They boycotted the vote and called on Venezuelans to take to the streets in protest. The election was condemned by Latin American leaders, the European Union and the US. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ramped up the auditing of its finances and found significant and unusual overpayments to some members of the TTDF. According to the sources, a senior official is said to behind the racket to siphon money from the Force over several years.

“This has been going on for years and years. Soldiers have been getting as much as $20,000 and $30,000 added to their normal salaries over the years, but now it look like they get too greedy because that figure went to $100,000 in some cases,” the TTDF source told the Trinidad Guardian.

The TTDF’s Public Affairs Officer, Flight Lieutenant Monique Sprott confirmed that acting Chief of Defence Staff Captain Hayden Pritchard had ordered the investigations.

She also revealed that police are conducting a separate independent investigation into the matter. (Caribbean360)

wednesDAY, August 2, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Moscow court shooting: Gang suspects killed in escape bid

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hree defendants have been killed in a court in the Russian capital, Moscow, after they tried to take the arms from officers in an attempt to escape, officials say.

Five suspected gang members attacked two agents who were escorting them in a lift, the Investigative Committee said.

The group was handcuffed and it was not immediately clear how they managed to free themselves to attack the guards.

The two other suspects and three security officers

The incident took place as the suspects were being escorted in the building

were wounded.

The suspects were accused of being part of a group known as GTA Gang, named after the violent game series

Grand Theft Auto.

The group of Central Asian nationals was suspected of killing 17 motorists in the Moscow area be-

benches and chanted "Lion, lion Nawaz Sharif" after the vote, standing defiant in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision to cut short his third stint in power.

A quick transition may ease fears that the nuclear-armed nation will be plunged into another bout of political turmoil, which could erode economic and security gains since the last

poll in 2013.

Sharif resigned on Friday after the Supreme Court disqualified him for not declaring a source of income - which the three-time premier disputes receiving.

He nominated staunch ally Abbasi as interim leader until his brother, Shahbaz, becomes eligible to take over, probably within two months. (Reuters)

vestigator and paid Fox News commentator, made the allegations in a suit filed against the network, parent company 21st Century Fox, Fox News reporter Malia Zimmerman and Trump supporter Ed Butowsky.

In the lawsuit, first reported by NPR, Wheeler alleged that Zimmerman fabricated quotes as she and Butowsky worked to ad-

vance “a political agenda for the Trump administration.”

Wheeler, who said he was approached by Butowsky in February and later retained by the Rich family to investigate the murder, alleged that he never told Zimmerman he found evidence of an email exchange between Rich and WikiLeaks or that powerful entities were impeding the

tween 2012 and 2014. Cars were forced to stop on a main road and their drivers were killed for reasons as yet unknown; none of their possessions were stolen.

In the court, one of the suspects attacked and tried to strangle an agent, as others attempted to seize the officers' weapons, Russia's Investigative Committee said in a statement.

When the lift they were in opened on the third floor, Russian National Guard officers opened fire, killing three of them as they tried to escape, the statement added. (BBC)

Pakistani lawmakers elect ousted PM’s ally as replacement

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akistani lawmakers on Tuesday elected former petroleum minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, an ally of ousted leader Nawaz Sharif, to replace him and the new premier immediately sought to project an image of stability.

Lawmakers of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) party banged on

Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

Turkey coup trial: Almost 500 in court amid protests

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Alleged coup plotters outside the court near Ankara

lmost 500 people arrested after last year's failed coup in Turkey have appeared in court accused of taking part in the plot.

Some of the handcuffed defendants were jeered as they were individually escorted into court by police and armed guards in front of TV cameras.

The trial focuses on events at the Akinci airbase which it is alleged was the plotters' headquarters.

It is taking place in a pur-

T

police investigation into the young staffer’s death in July 2016.

The erroneous claims about communications between Rich and WikiLeaks first surfaced on May 15, when a Fox affiliate in Washington, D.C., ran a report. The quotes also appeared the next day in Zimmerman’s since-retracted article on Fox News’ website. (Yahoo news)

pose-built courtroom outside the capital Ankara.

The defendants face charges from attempting to assassinate the president to murder. As some arrived at court they were met by protesters chanting "We want the death penalty!"

Some of the demonstrators had relatives killed or injured during the coup attempt and threw nooses towards the suspects.

Rebel soldiers tried to grab power in July 2016, leaving 249 civilians dead.

(BBC)

Protesters demand inquiry into murder of Kenya election official

Trump linked to Fox News’ bogus P story – lawsuit alleges he White House was briefed in advance about a baseless Fox News report claiming murdered Democratic National Committee staffer Seth Rich provided documents to WikiLeaks, according to a new lawsuit that also alleges President Donald Trump encouraged the article’s publication.

Rod Wheeler, an ex-police detective, private in-

17

rotesters marched on the offices of Kenya's election commission on Tuesday, demanding a speedy investigation of the murder of a senior official that has raised fears over the legitimacy of next week's national elections.

Chris Msando, the election board's head of information, communication and technology, was found murdered on Monday. He had been tortured before he was killed, authorities said.

Msando oversaw the live transmission of election results, a contentious area that the opposition has said could be used to rig next Tuesday's presidential and

parliamentary polls.

In a sign of public jitters, Kenya's military spokesman was forced to go on national television on Tuesday evening and deny reports he was missing. Some media outlets suggested he had been abducted after leaking details of election-related security.

The presidential race is very close: Opposition leader Raila Odinga is favored by 49 per cent of voters compared with President Uhuru Kenyatta's 48 percent, according to a poll of 5,000 Kenyans across 47 counties released on Tuesday

by Infotrak Research and Consulting. (Reuters)

Ohio man hid corpse in freezer – Police VP says Russia's stance must change

A

n Ohio man is accused of stashing the remains of what police believe is his missing former girlfriend in a freezer that he bought with his new, livein girlfriend, according to a criminal complaint filed in court on Tuesday.

After Katrina Layton moved in last month with Arturo Novoa in Youngstown,

Ohio, she began using the telephone of Novoa's missing former girlfriend, driving her car and caring for her dog, according to a police report included in the complaint.

Layton and Novoa have been charged with the abuse of a corpse, which was discovered on Saturday in several bags inside the freezer

by Novoa's landlord's wife.

Novoa had asked his landlord if he could move the freezer down to the landlord's basement because his electricity had been shut off and "he didn't want his freezer full of meat to spoil," the police report said. The landlord's wife became suspicious after seeing the freezer was padlocked, and decided to break in.

Novoa's former girlfriend, Shannon Graves, was reported missing on June 22, although the last colleagues or family saw her was in February, the Youngstown prosecutor's office said.

Investigators believe it is Graves' body that was stashed in freezer, but the Cuyahoga County medical examiner has not yet confirmed the corpse's identity and cause of death, the prosecutor's office said. (Reuters)

before ties improve

US Vice President Mike Pence

U

S Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday that relations with Russia would not improve until Moscow changed its stance on Ukraine and withdrew support for "regimes like Iran and Syria and North Korea.”

The US Congress voted last week for new sanctions on Russia and, at a news conference in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, Pence said the "lifting of sanctions will require Russia

to reverse the actions that caused sanctions to be imposed in the first place.”

"Russia's destabilizing activities in Ukraine, their support for rogue regimes like Iran and Syria and North Korea ... their posture has to change," he said at a joint news conference with Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili.

Pence said US President Donald Trump would sign the new sanctions on Russia into law this week and said that Trump and Congress were "speaking with a unified voice".

Keeping to previous US administrations' line, Pence also condemned Russia's presence in Georgia.

Moscow, whose annexation of Crimea in 2014 prompted US and EU sanctions, still has troops stationed in Georgia after a 2008 war over the breakaway region of South Ossetia, backing Georgia's Abkhazia, a region also controlled by pro-Russian separatists.

Pence also said the US was still behind Georgia's application to become a member of NATO. (Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, august 2, 2017

ARCHIE

It’s up to you to bring about personal or profession(March 21- al change. Explore new places April 19) and talk to people who have experience with and knowledge about something you want to do.

ARIES

Personal growth will give TAURUS you inner strength and the (April 20- ability to disregard the ignoMay 20) rance of others. Control, intelligence and practicality will be the tools that help you find success.

dilbert

Filter your emotions when GEMINI (May 21- dealing with sensitive issues.

June 20) Listen to what everyone has to say before you come to a conclusion. Your actions will speak louder than words.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

WORD GAME

Be careful how you deal with your peers or boss.

Someone will try to make you look bad. Use your intelligence to outsmart anyone who gets in your way.

Look for an opportunity to expand your interests, knowledge and ability to get ahead.

Make improvements to your living space and take care of responsibilities pertaining to children or elders.

Make sure whatever mesVIRGO (Aug. 23- sage you want to convey Sept. 22) comes through clearly. You won’t want to leave any room for error or a misunderstanding. Be precise, direct and, above all, patient.

Taking care of matters LIBRA that concern a friend or rela(Sept. 23tive will put you in a good poOct. 23) sition when you need a favor in return. Your kindness and generosity will boost your reputation.

SUDOKU

A business or educational SCORPIO trip will leave you question(Oct. 24ing what you want to do next.

Nov. 22) Trust in your instincts and do your own thing.

Understanding what’s reSAGITTARIUS quired to reach your goal (Nov. 23- will help you avoid failure.

Dec. 21) Strategize cleverly and stick to your budget. You can make a difference if you are realistic.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Getting involved in a joint CAPRICORN venture should be considered (Dec. 22- carefully. Impulsive moves Jan. 19) will lead to excess and loss.

Take your time and study the dynamics of a partnership before moving forward.

Discipline and desire AQUARIUS will help you bring about (Jan. 20- the changes that will make Feb. 19) you feel good about your life.

Making a move or working on home improvement will be uplifting.

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

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Think twice before you PISCES take on a new position. Be (Feb. 20March 20) sure that you fully understand what’s expected of you.

Someone is likely to withhold information in order to mislead you.

wednesDAY, august 2, 2017

Wu’s rivals take legal action to seize AIBA control

O

pponents to embattled amateur boxing chief Wu ChingKuo have begun legal proceedings in an attempt to seize control of ruling body the AIBA, executive committee member Pat Fiacco told AFP on Tuesday.

“We’ve contacted a court in Lausanne so that the running of the AIBA be handed over to the interim executive committee,” the Canadian explained.

He added that Swiss justice could alternatively choose to hand power of the International Boxing Association to “a temporary administrator”.

The court has another option open to it -- confirming Wu in a position he has held since 2006.

The legal move comes in the wake of last week’s no confidence motion against Taiwan’s Wu taken at a board meeting in Moscow.

Wu has attacked what he described in an interview with AFP from Taiwan on Saturday “a military coup” against him.

Wu’s rivals have claimed that the AIBA is on the brink of bankruptcy and last week set up an interim management committee to take charge of the association pending the selection of a new president.

Fiacco said they wanted Swiss justice to take “provisional measures” until October or November when an AIBA board meeting will vote on the no-confidence motion.

19

Bolt easily the GOAT ─ Boldon T

rinidad Olympic medallist turned track and field pundit Ato Boldon is convinced Jamaican sprint king Usain Bolt is indisputably the sport’s greatest of all time.

Despite the sprinter’s numerous achievements, which includes holding the world record for both the 100m and 200m distances and 11

Ching-Kuo Wu

Pat Fiacco

According to Fiacco 16 of the 20 AIBA executive members support the bid to oust Wu who is accused by his detractors of leaving the AIBA on the brink of bankruptcy.

“The AIBA’s debt this year is 5 million Swiss francs (4.4 million euros, $5.2 million) and a cumulated debt of 15 million Swiss francs,” Fiacco said, citing figures from audit firm KPMG. “We have been concerned about the mismanagement of the finance which could result in bankruptcy. We feel that the AIBA president needs to be impeached.”

Wu in his defence said on Saturday the organisation was in a sound finan-

cial state, with “over 10 million dollars” in the bank and no debt.

Fiacco in reply suggested Wu was taking into account future revenue from the International Olympic Committee and from host cities of upcoming world championships.

Wu, an influential member of the IOC’s executive commission, claims the challenge to his authority is politically-based.

He believes he is being targeted because of his reform push and singled out former AIBA executive director Ho Kim of South Korea for seeking “revenge” after his sacking over allegations of financial wrongdoing. (AFP)

PSG President Al-Khelaifi suggests Neymar deal is close N

asser Al-Khelaifi says he hopes to discuss Neymar in depth “at another time”, suggesting that his move to Paris SaintGermain is on track.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has suggested that the signing of Neymar from Barcelona could be close to completion.

Speculation in France has suggested that a world-record €222million deal to bring the Brazil star to Ligue 1 could be finalised in the coming days.

There were rumours that Neymar was in Doha to complete a medical on Monday but those proved to be unfounded as the 25-year-old put up a post on Instagram suggesting that he was flying back to Spain from a commercial trip in China.

Al-Khelaifi refused to comment on the future of a player not contracted to PSG but hinted at developments to come when he admitted that he hopes “to talk about it another time”.

“I think this question is a bit hasty,” he replied when asked by Medi1 TV if the

transfer was set to be completed. “Today, Neymar is a Barcelona player and we’ll see what will happen with him.

“But we respect all contracts signed between other clubs and players. I don’t really want to talk about it at this time. I hope to talk about it at another time.

“I prefer not to give percentages, either, but everything in its own time...”

Al-Khelaifi did confirm, however, that PSG are in the market for star talent who can help to bring both silverware and substantial publicity to the Parc des Princes.

“Neymar is a world star, but I repeat, he’s a Barcelona player today,” he said.

“Bringing in a star is not only a question of name or reputation, but also the style of play. PSG have the ambition to have great players who are recognised around the world, to increase the reputation of the club and give the players and the coach the level to which we aspire.”

(SportsMax)

Ato Boldon is convinced Jamaican sprint king Usain Bolt is indisputably the sport’s greatest of all time

World Championships and 9 Olympic gold medals, many have compared Bolt to iconic United States athlete’s Jessie Owens and Carl Lewis.

Owen’s a four time-Olympic gold medallist was the sport’s biggest name in the 1930s. He captured all the medals in 1936 at the historically significant Berlin Olympics, carefully watched

by Adolf Hitler at the height of the Nazi regime, which advocated the ideals of white supremacy. Lewis, who ruled the 1980s as one of the sport’s most instantly recognizable names, has nine Olympic and eight World Championship gold medals. While Lewis and Owen’s have their place in history, Boldon believes Bolt’s accomplishments have put him just above the rest.

“There isn’t anyone who can say that he (Bolt) has not been the best ever,” he said.

“Jesse Owens was the most important, Carl Lewis made sprinting profitable, but Bolt is the GOAT (greatest of all time).”

At last summer’s Rio Olympics Bolt became the first man to win both the 100m and 200m sprints at three consecutive Olympics. The 30-year-old has announced he will retire following the London World Championships. (SportsMax) Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednESdAY, AUGUST 2, 2017

Australia tour of Bangladesh unlikely unless pay dispute is resolved ─ Steve Smith

A

ustralian skipper Steve Smith has reiterated that the players are unlikely to tour Bangladesh unless the ongoing pay dispute between warring Cricket Australia and Australian Cricketers Association (ACA) is resolved.

CA chief executive James Sutherland had earlier called on the ACA to enter into a period of intense negotiations over coming days in order to resolve the ongoing pay dispute between the two governing bodies in toto.

Imposing a deadline on the stalled Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) negotiations, Sutherland said that the matter would be referred to independent arbitration if the pay dispute with the players remains unresolved by early next week, with CA also pledging to abide by the umpires’ decision.

While expressing his concern about the delay, he also said the ongoing pay dispute had reached the point where next month’s proposed Test tour to Bangladesh, a subsequent ODI series in India and the upcoming Ashes series against England are potentially at risk.

Australia’s tour to Bangladesh is scheduled to

begin in three weeks i.e from August 22.

When quizzed if he expects the Bangladesh series to go ahead successfully, Smith said that it would be unfair to go away with the tour after Australia A rejected to visit South Africa in the wake of stalled Memorandum of Association (MoU) between two governing bodies.

“I’d like to, but as we’ve said for a long time we need to get the deal done first. I don’t think it would be fair for us to go away after the [Australia] A guys were very strong on not going away on their tour [of South Africa], for us to then go away, I don’t think that’s fair,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Smith as saying.

“CA knows this, they’ve been told this. I told (CA’s Executive GM of Team Performance) Pat Howard personally that this was how things were going to be if there wasn’t a deal done,” he added.

Earlier, the players decided to boycott the Australia A tour of South Africa following Cricket Australia’s failure to take any action to resolve a bitter pay dispute between the two governing bodies.

However, CA and the

Australia are scheduled to play two Test matches on their tour of Bangladesh

ACA are in the middle of negotiations and are expected to be moving closer to an agreement.

Smith, on the other hand, also said that he remains hopeful that the pay dispute between the two warring parties will resolve soon after what he described as “some really good prog-

ress” in negotiations.

The Australian skipper further revealed the struggled he had faced in taking a stand of the players’ union and at the same time maintaining a healthy relationship with CA management, saying that he would have preferred to remain the dispute confidential.

Eccles All Stars, 4R Lioness A are GTT tape ball stars

By Delvon McEwan

E

ccles All Stars and 4R Lioness A claimed the respective titles in the male and female categories of the GTT Tape ball tournament on Sunday.

On a day where tape ball players provided lots of excitement to the delight of the scores of fans present at the National Park to witness the final day of action, Eccles All Stars gained the champion title after defeating Specialists by six runs in a high scoring encounter.

They triumphed in the tournament that featured more than 100 teams.

Kishan Persaud assaulted Specialists’ bowlers on his way to a top score of 52 in his team’s total of 93-3 in their allotted five overs.

Specialists replied with 87-4 with Renaldo Renee striking 30.

Meanwhile, in the Women’s final 4R Lioness A comfortably defeated 4R Lioness B with all their wickets intact.

The winners successfully chased 37 runs for victory with Latoya Smith leading the way with 34 not out.

The men’s champions were rewarded with $200,000, a trophy and 10 tickets for Hero’s Caribbean Premier League match be-

Eccles All Stars- Champions of GTT Knockout Tape ball tournament

tween Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinbago Knight Riders on Saturday August 19.

The runners up collected $100,000 and a trophy while third place finishers received $50,000 and a trophy.

The women’s champions won a trophy and tickets to CPL match on August 19.

Ershaad Ali of Ruimveldt Sports Club was named MVP of the tournament with 242 runs and 6 wks.

Highest individual score of the tournament was 85 from

Guyana’s national spinner Aamir Khan.

Leading up to the final there were thrilling semifinals. The following are the results from those matches.

Semifinal one: Eccles Allstars 74-1, (Andy Lall 29 not out) defeated Modern Media 58-3, (Karamchand Persaud 31).

Semifinal two: Specialist 82-3, (Ryan Adams 46 not out) defeated Ruimveldt Sports Club 81-3 (Earl Gilkes 49 not out) by 3 wks.

Men’s third Place Playoff:

Ruimveldt Sports Club 48-1 (Ershaad Ali 44 not out) defeated Modern Media 46-1 (A. Wasim 28 not out) by 5 wks.

Women Semifinal. 4R Lioness A 80-2, (Latoya Smith 33 not out) defeated Trophy Stall Angels 53-3, (June Ogle 21) by 27 runs.

The tournament was used as an activity to get cricket lovers in the mood for the Guyana leg of CPL action which commences on August 17 at the National Stadium.

“It’s had some difficult moments. When this is all over with, I have to deal with Pat Howard, I have to deal with the (CA) Board and speak to (CA CEO) James Sutherland so I have to be careful with what sort of lines I tread. Some guys have been really vocal on social media and I think the way for me to lead in this dispute is to be able to talk to guys behind the scenes that are at the table and doing the job,” Smith emphasized.

Australia have not visited Bangladesh for a Test series since 2006 and the upcoming tour was originally supposed to have taken place in 2016. However, the same was postponed following Australia’s refusal to tour the country because of security concerns.

Players, having central contracts and state players without multi-year deals, were left unemployed after the deadline for a new MoU was not brokered by June 30.

Once arbitration was agreed to, the 230 cricketers currently unemployed and unpaid would immediately be able to sign interim contracts under the terms of the previous MoU (men’s players) or the new agreement

that was detailed by CA last March (for women).

ACA had earlier rejected the new pay offer from the game’s governing body, saying the proposal will be a win for cricket administrators but a loss for the game.

In March, CA made an offer, proposing that the average pay of Australia’s international women’s players would rise from AUD$79,000 to AUD$179,000, while the average remuneration of state cricketers would more than double to AUD$52,000.

Under CA’s proposal, only male international players would have the chance to share in any surplus revenue, while other domestic male players and women at both domestic and international level would have to settle for fixed amounts which would not fluctuate according to the game’s income.

However, the ACA pointed out a series of concerns with the proposal, saying that it “disrespects the value of domestic cricketers and the role they play in Australian cricket”.

The major reason behind the ACA’s opposition is CA’s proposal to scrap a shared revenue model for player payments, which has been in place for nearly 20 years.

Umrao receives sponsorship from US-based Guyanese and in response to his rapid progress and discipline; he was presented with a bag of cricket gears to assist with his further development.

The gears consist of one cricket bag, one New Balance bowling boots, one Nike batting boots, one thigh pad, one CA bat, one elbow guard, bat rubbers and other cricket related items.

The sponsorship was provided by: Chin Singh, David Sookrah, Ramo Singh, Chris Ganesh, Brodo Kunjal, Mukesh Young Kelvin Umrao proudly displays Matai, Goordial his new CA bat with other gears Matai, Valdat, ifted Albion Cricket Buddy Permaul, Club, Berbice and Katch, Pampo Karan, Wally National U-17 left Bascom, Devan Ramlall, arm spinner and lower or- Shan and Dowlatram. der batsman Kelvin Umrao The sponsors wished is the latest young Berbice Umrao well in his future and cricketer to receive sponsor- revealed that it is their hope ship from Guyanese living that this gesture can motiin New York. vate others to do the same.

The career of Umrao, They promised to continue like other young promising to make significant contricricketers from Berbice, is butions to young cricketers being closely followed by a based on the recommendagroup of Guyanese living in tions. the State of New York, USA

G

sports

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─ CEO Harper says franchise looking to re-connect with fans

arbados Tridents chief executive officer Jason Harper has vowed that the team will go the extra mile in attempting to fix levels of disconnect felt by the fans for the franchise ahead of the new Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season.

Opinion in several quarters suggested some fans lost a sense of association with the Barbadian-based franchise last season after the departure of big-hitting local star Dwayne Smith to Guyana. It wouldn’t have helped matters following a disappointing performance for the team, which saw the franchise lose its last four matches of the tournament to finish outside of the playoff place.

With Smith’s return for the new season, however, Harper saw the franchise is determined to bring fans back on board.

FOR SALE 1 Furnished liquor restaurant & bar for sale-$20M or rent, location: E.C.D, 1 AT192 Carina- $520.000 for sale- call 600-7228

21

“We did not do a lot of things in the community last year and maybe that was our downfall. We are trying to change that. We are trying to get Barbadians to realise that four players on the team are Barbadians.

Originally there were five Bajans

Dwayne Smith

on the team but we lost Reifer (Raymon) after he was selected for the West Indies’ tour to England,” Harper told Barbados Today.

“Eighty percent of the Tridents’

staff is Bajan. [One might] want to say that we did not have a lot of national engagement. We did not do a lot of things in the community last year so that was our downfall. But we are trying to change that, we are trying to get Barbadians to realise that five guys on the team, four now because we have lost Reifer (Raymon), are from Barbados.

Eighty percent of the staff is Bajan, the team is run by a Barbadian CEO. It is still a quintessential Barbadian team but we are playing in a different format of the game than we are used to and it has taken people time to get used to that concept,” Harper said.

Several practice matches have been planned for community venues where fans will have a chance to meet and interact with the players.

(SportsMax)

Petra/Corona Beer Football Tournament

Western Tigers hit 13 past Beacons, GFC victorious against Black Pearls

A

ction in the Petra Organization/ Corona Beer Football Tournament continued at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground on Sunday evening and saw two high scoring encounters. Western Tigers struck 13 goals past Beacons FC who only managed a single goal in reply and Georgetown Football Club brushed aside Black Pearl 6-1.

It was a goal fest as Western Tigers’ Andrew Murray Jr opened the scoring in the 15th minute and would not stop scoring until the dying moments of the game as he bagged four other goals in the 58th, 59th, 80th and 87th minutes.

Hubert Pedro

His main striking partner Hubert Pedro also hit four as he struck in the 62nd, 63rd, 67th and 91st minutes to pile

further misery on the Beacons’ hapless defense.

Mark Gritten in the 19th minute , Darren Benjamin in the 85th, Lennox Cort in the 68th and Shane Morris in the 76th minute were the other goal scorers for Western Tigers while Travis Lyken scored a solitary goal in the 52nd minute for Beacons.

Earlier in the first game of the night the Georgetown Football Club notched up a win as they beat Black Pearl 6-1.

Benjamin Opara opened the scoring for GFC in the 14th minute while Shaquelle Bowen bagged a brace of goals in the 22nd and 78th minutes with Lauvaugn Ennis in the 35th, Joel Humphrey in the 66th minute and Alberto Basaanta in the 73rd minute being the others players to find the nets.

Black Pearl’s lone goal came off the boot of Ocemic Griffith in the 58th minute.

In the third and final game of the night the Police Football

RHY&SC award...

Club would emerge victorious in a low scoring and encounter against Camptown through a single goal from Dwayne Jacobs to win 1-0.

The Tournament continues on Friday with three games as Beacons FC clash with Black Pearl FC, Pele FC facing Flamingo FC and Santos FC squaring off against Northern Rangers FC. The first game will kick off at 17:00hrs at the Georgetown Football Club Ground.

from page 22

Chase scores 81 as Windies close day at 309 for 8 against Essex

R

oston Chase, Kraigg Braithwaite and Jermaine Blackwood each scored half centuries as the West Indies went to stumps on 309 for 8 from 89.4 overs on day-one of their three-day tour match against Essex County at County Ground in Chelmsford on Tuesday.

Chase top-scored with 81 as he and Blackwood (59) put on 119 for the fifth wicket to take the West Indies from a precarious 150 for 4 after Callum Taylor had bowled opener Braithwaite for 61.

However, Chase and Blackwood were dismissed in quick succession as the West Indies stumbled from 269 for 4 to 275 for 6 as the West Indies looked to bat beyond the first day. The former hit 12 fours and a six in his 138-ball innings that helped prevent a West Indies middle order collapse.

Along with Blackwood, whose score came off just 70 balls and included eight fours and a six, the Barbadian dubbed Captain Crisis, kept the Essex County bowlers at bay for 23.4 overs.

Chase was eventually bowled

by Taylor who ended the day with 2 for 33 from 10 overs.

The score was then 269 for 5.

Fourteen balls later Blackwood was adjudged leg before to Ryan ten Doeschate at 275 for 6 as the Windies lower order began to unravel.

Earlier Braithwaite was the anchor of the West Indies top order with his knock that help stabilize the Caribbean men who lost Kieran Powell who was bowled by Samuel Cook for 15 with only 19 runs on the board.

The Barbadian opener then featured in a 36-run partnership with Kyle Hope, who got to 22 before he was bowled by Paul Walter with the score on 55.

Hope’s younger brother Shai and Braithwaite began to mount a recovery with a 55-run stand before Walter got his second Hope brother and his second wicket of the match bowling Shai for 22 with the score at 106 for 3.

Walter returned figures of 2 for 50.

Shane Dowrich was unbeaten on 28 at the close with Kemar Roach and Miguel Cummins left to bat. (SportsMax)

Seven of the awardees pose with Ms World Guyana Vena Mookram after the presentation

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland spoke widely on the importance of Education and the linkage of youths, education and sports. Dr. Scotland congratulated the awardees and urged them to remain focus on their school work.

The Top Ten students of Region Six are Matthew Ramlochan - Belvedere Primary, Yadram Totaram - No. 56 Primary, John Ramdin Cumberland Primary, Allyssa Griffith Cropper Primary, Denish Somai - Tain Primary,

Dimitri Williams - All Saints Primary, Sherisa Chaturi Port Mourant Primary, Nick Rama - Crabwood Creek Primary, Purnima Totaram - Sheet Anchor Primary and Medeina Lionel - All Saints Primary.

The Top Students passed to attend Queen’s College and eight to Bishop High School while one would attend St. Stanislaus College.

The eight cricket teams in September would be hosting a Region 6 Top Teachers Programme where close to $500 000.00 worth of trophies, medals, framed certif-

icate and cash prizes would be distributed to six outstanding teachers.

The top teachers in both Primary and Secondary levels would receive $100 000.00 each while the 1st Runner-up would get $50 000.00 each and 3rd Place would receive $25 000.00 each.

The eight teams are Farfan & Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos & Gadgets Under-21 and First Division Teams.

22 Close contest anticipated in Boyce/ RHY&SC award ‘Top Jefford International Women’s 1500m Ten’ performers W T GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednESdAY, AUGUST 2, 2017

ith the Boyce/Jefford Classic sharply approaching, Guyana’s middle distance queens will be tested against defending champion, Grenada’s Kenisha Pascal next weekend at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground, Linden on August 12.

Pascal had never won before storming to victory in the International Women’s 1500m ahead of an impressive field last year. The path to victory does not seem as clear cut in the 2017 edition for the defending champion.

The middle-distance race will be a much-anticipated rematch for Guyana’s female phenom, Joanna Archer, who is just coming off an 800m win at the Aliann Pompey Invitational.

Archer was second behind Pascal last year and the lanky athlete was visibly unhappy about that result.

Thus she will be aiming for a better showing against her Grenadian rival at this year’s meet. In addition to Archer and Pascal, Trinidad and Tobago’s Joanna Rogers is slated to return for the Women’s 1500m. Rogers was third in the race last year.

Jenella Jonas holds the 1500m meet record of 5:02.00 done in 2011.

However, Pascal has already ran under five minutes this year with a best of 4:47.09 at the Whitsuntide Games.

A reproduction of that performance from Pascal should put the local ladies

Guyana’s Joana Archer will be looking to go one better in the women’s 1500m this year

under tremendous pressure.

Apart from the three favourites in the event, strong challenges will come from Police’s Aaliyah Moore and Kezra Murray. Veteran athletes, Guyana Defence Force’s, Ashanti Scott and Cassie Kirton cannot be ruled out from the local challengers. Defence Force’s Leyanna Charles is also registered to compete in what is an impressive field of athletes.

The 2017 Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic is sponsored by Kares Engineering Inc., The Guyana Tourism Authority, The National

Trinidad and Tobago’s Kenisha Pascal

Sports Commission, K&B Mining, Ansa McAl Trading under its Lucozade and Stag Beer brands, Red Wing Shoes available at VSH United and Jude Bike Shop.

he Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, and its eight cricket teams recently held their first ever Top Ten Educational Scheme to honour the outstanding top students for Region Six at the recent National Grade Six Exams. The programme was held at the St. Francis Community Developers Training Hall with Speaker of the National Assembly delivering the Feature Address.

Speaking to a capacity audience of over 400 club members, special invitees and students, Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the main objective of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, is to make sure that every youth fulfill his/her full potential in sports, education and culture. The Club, he stated decided to host the awards as it was very impressed with the performances of schools in Region Six and announced that it would become an annual event.

Despite been mainly a cricket club, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, operates the largest

Say No/Say Yes Programme for an NGO in Guyana as it strives to get youths to Say No to Drugs, Crime, Suicide, Alcohol and Yes to Education, Religion, Life and Sports.

The Top Ten Awards was sponsored solely by the eight cricket teams and each of the awardees received a trophy, medal, framed certificate and educational materials.

Noting that Education is the key to a successful future, the veteran Club Administrator urged the youths to develop a culture of reading, research and listening. Secondary Schools, he stated is far different than Primary School and they would be temptations to follow the wrong path. Foster advised the attentive youths to choose their friends carefully as true friends do not encourage you to skip school, to consume alcohol, to engage in pre marital sex or to be disrespectful to your elders.

The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, was willing to assist them if needed and pledged to invest even more in the educational sector. continued on page 21

14th Annual Seven Seas 11-race Blake scores as West Dem Cycling set for this weekend down Georgetown 1-0 T W

UDFA GT Beer Super Cup Association Football in Linden

he 14th annual Seven Seas 11-race cycling programme is slated to be contested at the inner circuit of the National Park on Saturday August 5th from 09:00hrs.

The programme targets a wide range of racers starting from the BMX, Junior level, Seniors and all the way up to the veterans.

However, the main event of the day will see the top cyclists in the country match pedals over a grueling 35 lap race for trophies and cash prizes.

Cycling action will continue as National cycling will return to the West Demerara roadways on Sunday August 6th when national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed stages the 13th annual Regan Rodrigues Memorial 50-mile race. This event pedals off from Wales Police Station at 08:00hrs and proceeds to Bushy Park on the East Bank of Essequibo before finishing at the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The first six finishers will receive prizes, while the top three in the juniors, veterans, mountain bike and female categories will be rewarded. There will be a prize for the top Over-60 veteran rider while eight prime prizes will be up for grabs during the course of the race.

Among the top contenders for both events will be Team Evolution’s Paul DeNobrega, Raul Leal and Team Coco’s Jamaul John; all of whom will be looking to add valuable national classification points.

─ Berbice, Bartica draw

est Demerara’s David Blake threaded in the lone goal of the game as pre -tournament favourites Georgetown suffered a 1-0 loss to West side team when the inaugural GT Beer Super Sunday Nigh Cup football championship continued at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground last Sunday.

West Demerara placed themselves in a strong position to advance to the semifinals as the top qualifier from Group B, while Berbice and Bartica failed to earn their first win as they ended that encounter 2-2.

As early as the 3rd min-

ute Georgetown found themselves on the back foot with Blake netting what would eventually be the lone goal of the encounter. The win placed them on six points from two wins in group B. The joined hosts Upper Demerara who are also on six points after winning twice and lead Group A. In the first game of the night it was Berbice which began the scoring after Graham Thomas netted in the 6th minute. However, Bartica were able to equalize through Shaquille Hopkinson in the 20th minute. Then Berbice regained the lead when Stephon Boucher slotted home a

David Blake

28th minute strike.

Berbice would continue to hold the edge and while both side s battled it out in the final period it would be Bartica who would get the equalizer just one minute from the end of regulation time as Aloysious Edwards scored in the 89th minute to secure the draw to earn both teams their first point of the tournament which has a $2M first prize.

Canada’s High Commissioner puts bat on ball before departure T

here are many ways to say goodbye, however, if it is an astute leader then there might be consideration of exploring an activity that will have a lifetime impact.

That option cannot be limited to any sort of initiative, but one that is directly intact with the individual who is being honoured.

In this case staffs of the High Commission of Canada enjoyed a friendly 8-over soft ball match among themselves on Friday, July 28, 2017 at the Everest Cricket Club to bid farewell to the outgoing High Commissioner Pierre Giroux.

It was his first hand at the sport.

The Kingston Knights, led by Wilton Lawrence, triumphed over the Yukon Warriors, led by Melville Rogers, winning by 3 runs. The top scorer was Harry Dhanai from the Yukon Warriors with 49 runs, followed by Kester Robin with 45 runs.

The game was organized as a parting gift by the staff for outgoing High Commissioner Pierre Giroux who will be departing this week.

Staffs of the High Commission of Canada with outgoing High Commissioner Pierre Giroux (front row fifth from left) before a cricket match

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesDAY, august 2, 2017

Warriors ready to rumble

... as successful camp wraps up

G

uyana Amazon Warriors showed positive signs in final practice match with convincing win over a Select XI yesterday at the National Stadium.

The Warriors recorded their highest score of 160-5 in 20 overs then returned to restrict their counterparts to 88-7 in 20 overs to claim their only success in three practice matches before they depart for Florida today.

Opener Martin Guptill led the way for the Warriors with 47 from 25 balls inclusive of two sixes and six fours while receiving support from Jason Mohammed (45) and Babar Azam (41).

Gudakesh Motie 2-23 from four overs and Chandrapaul Hemraj 1-21 were the key bowlers for the Select XI. In pursuit of the target, the Select XI lost skipper Leon Johnson for 10. That was in the fourth over and off the bowling of Steven Jacobs with the score on 22.

U

Veerasammy Permaul

Everything went downhill afterwards. Medium pacer Rayad Emrit 3-12 and left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul 2-17 combined to capture five victims as the Select XI found scoring very difficult.

Anthony Bramble made 19 while three of the Select

XI batsmen made it to double figures in a failed attempt to hunt the target.

Guyana Amazon Warriors will play their first match on August 5 against St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots at Lauderhill.

The match is scheduled to start at 11:00h.

their first match.

“Taking everything into consideration I think we are satisfied with where we are at the moment. We expect that we will have a couple of sessions when we get to Florida to fine tune for the matches in Florida, and come our first game we expect to be ready.”

The Coach noted the main aim of the team is to win the tournament, but there will be taking it in stages as they work towards qualifying for the playoffs then the final, with the tenacity to go all the way.

With the presence of spinners Rashid Khan, Veerasammy Permaul and Steven Jacobs, Harper said he expects a tremendous contribution from the spinners but is not ruling out the other bowlers since it was Sohail Tanveer who was the

T

Rayad Emrit

Under-16 fights to its fund raising activity scheduled for Sunday at the Burnham Court at Middle and Carmichael Streets.

The Take-Away lunch is being held to assist in acquiring enough funds to send a team of boxers to Jamaica in October.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle disclosed that his association has added Under-16 boxing to the fundraising activity. .

he lanky all-rounder enters his second time with his daughter. year with the Amazon Warriors after “She makes me happy when I’m away a sterling 2016 with mostly bat in from cricket especially when I loose hand, sniping up 16 wickets at an average matches. I don’t taking loosing very well. of 18.6 from the 12 When I’m with her matches. she makes me feel With a wide comfortable”, the “we are a great franchise, we have range of experience, player told Guyana been to finals three times and it is Emrit is known Times Sport. unfortunate we never won. It is a for his ability to Adamant that deceive batsmen he cannot cook to good bunch of guys and our team uniwith is slower-balls save his life, Emrit ty is like a family and the fans should also revealed that and cutters which come out and be a 12th man” makes him one of if not cricket, he the most valuable would have turned assets to the team. to the sport of He received his big break when included football. The Mohawk rocking cricketer in the West Indies squad for an ODI tour of is urging all Warriors to come out in their India a few months before the 2007 World numbers and support the team.

Cup. He played only two games, though, “We are a great franchise, we have been and batted too low down the order to have to finals three times and it is unfortunate we significant impact and took no wickets. He never won. It is a good bunch of guys and our hasn’t received a national call-up since but team unity is like a family and the fans should he’s been in Trinidad and Tobago’s scheme of come out and be a 12th man”. things in all forms of the game.

The bowler is expected to partner Sohail Though, the globe-trotting T20 cricketer Tanveer in the power play overs and the takes his job serious, there is softer side to ‘death’ and possibly will be on the go-to the player which emanates from spending bowlers for skipper Martin Guptill.

.....................

Babar Azam

Full name: Mohammad Babar Azam Born: October 15, 1994, Lahore, Punjab Current age: 22 years Playing role: Batsman Batting style: Right-hand bat Bowling style: Right-arm off break Warriors Coach Roger Harper

Warriors’ best bowler in the 2016 edition of the tournament.

Since the birth of the CPL in 2013, the Warriors have featured in three finals but have never been at the summit.

Maybe this is the year for the Warriors.

GBA plans fundraiser he Guyana Boxing Association has added eight

By Akeem Greene

T

─ as Warriors wing out to Florida nceasing moments of thrills and parties will soon be unfold as the Hero’s Caribbean Premier League is a mere two days away, with the first match set to bowl off on the Friday between power house Trinbago Knight Riders and St. Lucia Stars in St. Lucia.

The following day the most consistent team of the CPL, Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on the star studded St. Kitts Patriots in Lauderhill, Florida. Coach of the Warriors Roger Harper says that by then he expects his unit to be charged and ready to compete.

Speaking yesterday at the end of the final practice match before the Warriors wing out to Florida, Harper, expressed satisfaction that his team gradually coming into gear as they approach

Get to know your Guyana Amazon Warriors Full name: Rayad Ryan Emrit Born: March 8, 1981, Mount Hope, St Joseph, Trinidad Current age: 36 years Playing role All-rounder Batting style: Right-hand bat Bowling style: Right-arm medium-fast

Harper leaning on spinners

By Delvon Mcewan

23

“From six in the evening we will have our Under-16 boxers showcasing their skill. This is much needed competition and allows the public to get a peep at future Olympians,” the Ninvalle said.

Guyana has been invited to send a team to Jamaica for a tournament being held from October 6 to 8. The GBA is planning to send a team of five boxers and one coach.

The take-away lunch begins at 1 pm.

S

tylish, technically sound and a large already gelled well”, he told Guyana Times appetite for runs are just some of the Sport. qualities, the player displays when Notable on the success of the Warriors, suited for native Pakistan or any other team. Azam wants all of Guyana to come out to He joined the home matches Guyana Amazon “I have been Warriors squad as watching Guyana “I have been watching Guyana a late replacement Amazon Warriors Amazon Warriors paying CPL and to the inured paying CPL and they have been doing good, so fans Australian Chris they have been Lynn is expected doing good, so fans should come out and support as they to solidify the topshould come out always do. They have all the reason order. and support as they to support because the team always Azam laid claim always do.

They to a long-term have all the reason did well in CPL history. Hopefully we spot in Pakistan’s to support because will keep it going and we need all the batting line-up the team always did support from Guyanese people”. with a strong well in CPL history. performance Hopefully we will in 2016, making three consecutive ODI keep it going and we need all the support hundreds against West Indies in the UAE. from Guyanese people”.

Given his international career only The right-hander may not be known began in 2015, he has only played eight for bludgeoning the ball to all parts of the T20Is but has some degree of success ground but is certainly capable of helping playing or Islamabad United in his domestic the side post or chase big scores. league.

This player brings the end to Guyana Undoubtedly, one of the rising talents of Times Sport special feature, Get To Know the sport, he expressed elation to being a Your Guyana Amazon Warriors. The part of a new franchise. publication wishes the team best of success “I feel honoured and thankful to the as they play their first match of the 2017 management for me being selected and Hero Caribbean Premier League on August I’m looking forward to it playing with top 5 against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in starts. It is has been four days and we have Florida on August 5.

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

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Get to know your Guyana Amazon Warriors

Warriors ready to rumble

Rayad Emrit

Pg 23

... as successful camp wraps up Mr Economical; Steven Jacobs was busy for the Warriors in yesterday’s final practice match

Harper leaning on spinners

Pg 23

─ as Warriors wing out to Florida Warriors Coach Roger Harper

Babar Azam

The Warriors after their final practice match

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