Guyana Times International 19-Jul-19

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Road to first oil closer …as ‘Liza Destiny’ sets WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019

ISSUE NO. 458

sail for Guyana

See story on page 3

The Liza Destiny has departed Singapore and will arrive in Guyanese waters in September (ExxonMobil photo)

Search continues for GECOM Chair Page 5

Jagdeo lobbies int’l community to ensure Govt complies with Constitution Page 10

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

NEWS 3

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Road to first oil closer …as ‘Liza Destiny’ sets sail for Guyana

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iza Destiny, the very first oil production vessel to be placed in Guyana, has departed Singapore for Guyanese waters, according to a release from ExxonMobil.

Christened on June 22, 2019 by First Lady Sandra Granger, the Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel is expected to arrive in Guyana in September, as the country readies for first oil in 2020.

The Liza Destiny has a production capacity up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day and an overall storage volume of 1.6 million barrels.

During normal operations, there will be at least 80 persons living and working onboard the vessel.

Twenty-four Operations and Maintenance Technicians, who are currently being trained in Canada, will return in 2020 to support work on the Liza Destiny.

This FPSO is a significant

component of the Liza Phase 1 development which involves four undersea drill centers with 17 production wells.

“We have more than 1000 Guyanese working for the project here, and the team is continuing to do an incredible job. Their work includes everything from completions of the initial wells for production to laying pipelines and infrastructure on the sea floor to eventually connect up to the Liza Destiny for production.

“We’re proud of the work being done each and every day, and want to thank everyone involved for their focus on safety and keeping the protection of the environment top of mind in all that they do,” says ExxonMobil’s Country Manager Rod Henson.

Only a few days ago, British High Commissioner Greg Quinn posited that the benefits of oil must reach all Guyanese, including those on the coastland and those in hin-

ExxonMobil’s Country Manager Rod Henson

terland villages.

“Guyana is on the cusp of unparalleled wealth. That wealth must benefit each and every citizen of this country, regardless of who they are or where they are; from

the coast to the hinterland, from Georgetown to the smallest village. Everyone must benefit.

Government and Opposition must work for all the citizens of Guyana,” the High Commissioner admon-

ished.

The principal explorer of this oil, ExxonMobil, has thus far made 13 discoveries, the most recent being in April last. This discovery added to the previously announced estimated recoverable resource of approximately 5.5 billion oil-equivalent barrels in the Stabroek Block.

Yellowtail-1 is the fifth discovery in the Turbot area, which ExxonMobil expects to become a major development hub.

Quinn had explained that if citizens are at the other end of such resources, the latent potentials of the country, which have been announced for some time, would be realised. If not, he said, it will be a “shameful legacy”.

He mentioned the positive growth in business activities and linkages that were forged with other parts of the United Kingdom (UK). turn to page 9

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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EDITORIAL

Abiding by the Constitution Caricom’s silence on what A familiar site when passing through Downtown Georgetown - the Stabroek Market. (DPI photo)

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he eagerly awaited consequential orders from the CCJ, flowing from the consolidated cases appealed from the No-Confidence Motion (NCM) of Dec 21, 2018 and David Granger’s unilateral selection of the GECOM Chair were delivered last Friday. Ultimately, the decisions and orders of the CCJ relate to the date for holding of elections in Guyana in accordance with the Constitution. Inter alia, the CCJ summarised: a) The provisions of Article 106(6) and (7) of the Constitution apply to a No-Confidence motion. b) Thirty-three votes constitute a majority of the 65-member National Assembly. c) Mr Charrandas Persaud was ineligible to be elected to the Assembly by virtue of his Canadian citizenship, but his vote on the motion of no confidence was valid. d) Nothing in the anti-defection regime established in Article 156(3) of the Constitution rendered Mr Persaud incapable of casting his vote on that motion in the manner in which he did. e) The National Assembly properly passed a motion of no confidence in the Government on 21 December 2018. f) Upon the passage of this motion of no confidence in the Government, the clear provisions of Article 106 immediately became engaged.

There are some who seem to have some problems with comprehending the above or are deliberately obfuscating the issues in furtherance of their own narrow agendas. Caretaker President David Granger, for instance, said in his address to the nation following the CCJ’s presentation: “Guyanese, it is clear that elections have to be held in the shortest possible time… I commit to the holding of credible elections in the shortest possible time”.

But this reference to “elections in the shortest possible time” is prevarication at best and disingenuous at worst. As the CCJ pointed out: “The Judiciary interprets the Constitution. But, as we intimated in our earlier judgement, these particular provisions require no gloss on the part of the Court in order to render them intelligible and workable”. A “gloss” in legal circles is “an annotation, explanation, or commentary on a particular passage in a book or document, to elucidate or amplify the passage”.

The CCJ went on to belabour this point: “Their meaning is clear and it is the responsibility of constitutional actors in Guyana to honour them. Upon the passage of a vote of no confidence, the Article requires the resignation of the Cabinet including the President. The Article goes on to state, among other things, that notwithstanding such resignation, the Government shall remain in office and that an election shall be held ‘within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine …’ The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has the responsibility to conduct that election and GECOM too must abide by the provisions of the Constitution”.

“The Court must assume that these bodies and personages will exercise their responsibilities with integrity and in keeping with the unambiguous provisions of the Constitution bearing in mind that the No-Confidence Motion was validly passed as long ago as 21 December 2018”.

But it appears that caretaker President Granger needs a “gloss” on these “unambiguous provisions of the Constitution”, which it had, in any event, presented in its judgements of July 18.

To wit, that the valid passage of the NCM on Dec 21, 2018 had mandated elections by March 21, 2019. But the Government’s recourse to the High, then Appellate Courts placed that process “on pause”, which was reactivated with the decision by the CCJ – the ultimate Court for Guyana – on June 18, that the NCM was validly passed. By the operations of Art 106, elections therefore have to be scheduled on or before Sept 18, 2019, unless the Opposition PPP wishes to extend the date.

Having categorically declared they are unprepared to do so, the latter date now kicks in and as the CCJ declared, GECOM is not above the Constitution and must facilitate same.

is happening in Guyana

Dear Editor, If there was any doubt the Government of Guyana fell on December 21, 2018, the Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ) ruling on June 18, layered with consequential orders issued on July 12, 2019, now affirms the Guyana Government was defeated in a No-Confidence Motion on that day. The facts are unambiguous, pellucidly clear and unequivocally affirmed by the CCJ. The Constitution of Guyana requires that the President and the Cabinet resign with immediate effect, the President and his Gov-ernment transition into a caretaker role, the elections held within 90 days, by September 18, in a new timeline which began on June 18, the day of the CCJ ruling. In addition, the CCJ ruled that a new GECOM Chair be appointed urgently in accordance with the Constitution.

These realities are not the imposition of a rogue court.

These realities are in accordance with the laws of Guyana, its Constitution, with the CCJ merely pointing out the cold, hard facts.

As a Caribbean citizen with a deep commitment to the success and effectiveness of Caricom, given the CCJ’s unequivocal judgment, Caricom’s position is of critical importance. Caricom has been totally silent so far, nearly nine months after the NCM in Guyana’s Parliament, insisting its commitment is towards democracy in every Caricom country and, in fact, everywhere in the Commonwealth and in the world. I stood proud as a Caribbean citizen every time, and there are many such instances, when Caricom firmly and bravely stood on the side of democracy, whenever and wherever democracy was threatened.

In view of the CCJ ruling on the NCM in Guyana, where does Caricom stand?

Mr Secretary General, democracy is threatened in Guyana as the Guyana Government refuses to ad-here to the Constitution and the will of Parliament. When a Government deliberately sabotages its own Constitution and disrespects the legal system, as the APNU/AFC Government

is presently doing in Guyana, democracy is threatened. Will Caricom maintain silence as Guyana plunges into a dictator-ship?

Caricom itself, in the midst of the clumsy Government’s challenge of the NCM and its validity, insist-ed the legal avenues must be honoured and, therefore, it will not voice any position on the political dispute in Guyana, one of its founding members. It took this position even though the parliamentary outcome was clear on December 21, 2018. Whatever doubt the Government attempted to stir has now been dismissed by the CCJ. The CCJ left nothing for interpretation – the Guyana Government is a caretaker Government and it must follow the Constitution, holding elections within three months. What is Caricom waiting on now?

Caricom’s silence on what is happening in Guyana brings disrepute to this body and will forever im-pact on its future position on various matters. First, Caricom’s future positions on any threat to de-mocracy anywhere will seem hollow and hypocritical. How could an organisation which turned a blind eye to the sabotaging of the Constitution by one of its own members challenge undemocratic behaviour in other countries or even in another of its member states? Caricom’s silence as the Con-stitution of Guyana is being railroaded potentially disqualifies Caricom from ever again being a legit-imate voice against undemocratic actions anywhere.

Second, the CCJ’s own future is in jeopardy and Caricom’s silence is contributing to a perilous future for the CCJ. The CCJ is one of the most important institutions in Caricom. The strength and integrity of Caricom are dependent on a strong and respected CCJ. If the CCJ’s rulings and orders are allowed to be ignored by a Government, as is happening in Guyana right now, then the CCJ is rendered a tooth-less poodle. We must not allow this to happen. At the very least, Caricom must take a stance that the CCJ ruling is sacrosanct, with no room to disrespect the institution. In accordance

with Guyana’s Con-stitution which the CCJ affirms, the Guyana Government is a caretaker Government and will become an illegal Government after September 18. Caricom must end its silence and forcefully call on the Government of Guyana to enforce the CCJ rulings, following faithfully the provisions of the Constitu-tion of Guyana.

The CCJ has spoken and Caricom has no reason to equivocate. If Caricom does not support its own institution and stand by it, why should anyone want to continue with the CCJ? The deliberate and contemptuous disregard being demonstrated by the Guyana Government in regards to the CCJ’s rul-ing is a fatal threat to the CCJ. Why should any of the countries that presently subscribe to the CCJ continue to honour this onerous burden for an institution that is merely a paper tiger, a toothless poodle? Why would any country that presently includes the CCJ as its final court continue to honour this obligation if the Court is a paper tiger only? Why should any country which presently is thinking of using the CCJ as its final court do so if the CCJ is nothing but a talk shop?

This is Caricom’s dilemma.

While you equivocate, refusing to comment and refusing to urge the Guy-ana Government to adhere to its Constitution, while you continue to behave as if it is business as usual in Guyana, the credibility of Caricom, the legitimacy of your institutions, are being eroded by your silence, your very thunderous silence.

Your silence has caused, if not more than 50 per cent, at least 50 per cent of the Guyanese people to lose faith in Caricom.

The time has come for Caricom to stand by the principles of the Treaty of Chaguaramas and the 2001 Nassau Declaration, and speak out against the erosion of democracy in Guyana, against the deliber-ate perversions of the Constitution of Guyana. This is not an option for Caricom, it is a duty-bound to stand up on behalf of democracy in Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

NEWS 5

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Search continues for GECOM Chair

…Opposition Leader finds President’s suggestions “unfavourable”

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo did not find favour with President David Granger’s suggestions of Attorney Kesaundra Alves and Justice Claudette La Bennett for the post of chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

This was revealed following a meeting with representatives from the President and Opposition on Wednesday to hammer out six names that are “not unacceptable” to the President.

“The two names previously suggested by the President did not find favour with the Leader of the Opposition,” a joint statement from the two sides detailed.

The President had initially suggested a list of eight names for the Opposition Leader to consider but subsequently shortlisted Alves, the Chair of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), and Justice La Bennett, a retired High Court Judge.

It is not the first time that Justice La Bennett’s name has appeared in the running for GECOM Chairperson. In 2017, prior to the unilateral appointment of retired Justice James Patterson, President Granger had been adamant that he was not leaning towards appoint-

Representing the Government were Director General at the Ministry of the Presidency Joseph Harmon and PNC/R Chair Volda Lawrence, the opposition team included PPP Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

ing La Bennett.

Meanwhile, during Wednesday’s meeting, the Opposition’s team, which included People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall presented four additional names to be hammered out.

These new names will be passed on to President Granger for consideration.

Both the Opposition and the President’s representatives were tight-lipped about

the new nominees.

However, Director General at the Ministry of the Presidency Joseph Harmon, who, along with PNC/R Chair Volda Lawrence represented the President during the meeting, confirmed that these new names were not among the 18 submitted by the Opposition Leader back in 2017.

The Head of State has found another four nominees submitted by the Opposition Leader as “not unacceptable”.

This means that those four individuals can make the final

list of six nominees for the post of the new GECOM chairperson.

While, those final four names were not disclosed, Guyana Times International understands that Conflict Resolution Specialist Lawrence Latchmansingh is among those of whom the Head of State found acceptable.

Nevertheless, the hammering out process will continue today (Thursday), where the two sides are expected to consider the four new Opposition nominees.

Jagdeo has to compile a final consensual list of six nominees to submit to President Granger. From that list, the Head of State will choose a GECOM Chairperson.

Initially, the Opposition Leader had presented 11 names to be “hammered out” by a working group comprising of representatives from both Government and the Opposition. These nominees were all rejected back in 2017

by President Granger, who had gone ahead and unilaterally appointed retired Justice James Patterson as the GECOM Chair.

However, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on June 18, 2019 ruled that Justice James Patterson’s appointment to the post was flawed and unconstitutional. Days later, he stepped down opening up the process for a new chairperson to be appointed.

The Court had urged that there be consensus between the two leaders in this process, resulting in the establishment of the working group. However, during a series of meetings last week, the President’s representatives shortlisted only five of the Opposition’s 11 nominees. turn to page 8

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Full compliance with the constitution is needed

Dear Editor, I write this letter prompted by the letter entitled: “APNU and PPP/C must use this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for meaningful constitutional reforms” in Stabroek News, Friday, July 12, 2019, and “The prisoner’s dilemma and a call to extend and reform”, in Kaieteur News of the same date, by Terrence R Blackman and Thomas B Singh.

I am responding because I think that they are both earnest and well-intended. And, I would say that taking account of the social peace and quiet in our country since the NCM, the overwhelming majority of us Guyanese of all races, classes, religions, and regions is all pon-dering our situation and looking for a way forward. This may well be a once-in-alifetime opportunity to grapple with the many

things that have been holding us Guyanese back. We are all sensing that we are at an important juncture: I would draw notice to a number of recent letters from our former Prime Minister, Hamilton Green, and my appearance with him on the Internet GlobeSpan talk show of Wednesday, July 10, which you can find on YouTube and Facebook.

Editor, in our current situation, full compliance with the spirit and the letter of the NCM and the relat-ed constitutional provisions, including those related to GECOM, is the gateway towards our desired ethnic-social-political harmony. I am aware that a number of persons argue that such compliance is insufficient for harmony, but it is an essential first step for everyone.

Editor, if there is one thread that runs through our history from the mid-

1950s, it has been the refusal of those who would have seen themselves as the elite of Guyana to accord full equal weight as fellow Guyanese citizens to the average IndoGuyanese, Dr Jagan and the PPP. I am willing to acknowledge that this period has been a difficult and uncomfortable transitioning and learning period for us all; that the majority of us would have been confused, confounded and vulnerable to exploitation by the over-lapping of the differences in our country, in race, class, city people, country people (urban/rural) and religion.

Individual personalities and the international situation added more fuel to this already explo-sive mix.

From mid-1950, many, who have gravitated to being supporters of the PNC and to the other third par-ties as they appeared, have to a

greater or lesser extent spoken about and represented Dr Jagan and his PPP supporters as not being sophisticated, urbane, nimble nor smart; country, agricultural rice and sugar, people; leaning towards godless communism; our brothers and sisters – yes, but second broth-ers and sisters who must wait their turn; not ready for Government.

Those sentiments provided fertile ground for the manipulative change from constituency First Past the Post to a Proportional Representative (PR) system for the 1964 elections – it was a calculated change to get Dr Jagan and the PPP/C out of office. Those same sentiments also motivated and enabled the active participation of a few and passive acceptance by many of our rigged elections from 19681985. People, howev-

er, became less wedded to this rigging approach as our social, political and economic situation continuously deteriorated during the 1970s and 1980s when we all suffered greatly and in many ways that we were not conscious of.

The vacillating position of the leaders of the coalition Government since the NCM demonstrate that they are still having difficulty to do the right thing and accept us supporters of the PPP and PPP/C as equal brothers and sisters and citizens. We of the PPP and the PPP/C want to be nothing more nor less.

We recall our Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo being moved not long ago to plead during a debate in our Parliament that we of the PPP and PPP/C are filled with “not one dollop less of patriot-ism” than they the leaders of the coalition Government.

Editor, my fellow citizens, Messrs Terence Campbell and Thomas Singh, for us to go ahead without first the full acceptance of and compliance with the spirit and letter of the NCM would be for Guyana to put itself once again on the road of getting around the PPP/C and their supporters, the road of 19641992.

On the other hand, It is my belief that full compliance with the NCM (and the Consequential Orders of the CCJ being delivered as I write) would open the minds of us all to the harmony that we all desire and which is necessary if our recent find of oil is to be a boon and not a damning of us. Let us take that first step.

Sincerely, Samuel AA Hinds Former President and former Prime Minister

Caricom should intervene The Int’l community must in Guyana’s crisis Dear Editor, The CCJ’s final orders emphasised that the Constitution, which deals with the consequences of the passage of such a motion, should be strictly followed, while the process of the appointment of a GECOM Chairman must be done with utmost importance to ensure that Guyana remains a democratic State.

Unfortunately, because of David Granger and his reluctance to appoint an impartial GECOM Chairman, who would be independent and competent to manage the elections per the provision of the electoral laws, GECOM remains non-functional.

The President is definitely bent to ensure that his choice (a person who will take instructions from him) would be the result in any process or negotiation. The Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, must ensure that he does not concede to any process or negotiation that will

give President David Granger an op-portunity to select a GECOM Chairman that would “dance to the President’s tune “.

We must be convinced that the basic single description of an election which meets universally-recognised electoral and human rights standards is contained in the universally-recognised Interna-tional Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), Article 25 (b) “genuine periodic elections…. guaran-teeing the free expression of the will of the electors”, so based on this evidence, the issue of H-t-H registration is not necessary but the “claims and objections” is mandatory to ensure every elector is guaranteed an opportunity to vote in the elections.

The most troubling and worrisome consequence that is prevalent is the prolonged silence of Caricom, that is a clear indication that Caricom is tolerating the APNU/AFC coalition

Government’s disrespect and disregard for the Constitution.

The last instance that Caricom intervened, the accord that was formed rewarded the PNC for demon-strating to the people that if you lose by a set of rules that the PNC themselves had drafted, you simp-ly seize the umpire and demand new rules which will guarantee PNC victory, the accord also rewarded the PNC for its wilful lawless, bullying tactics culminating in the January 12 incident.

Caricom must intervene now. Don’t allow the current situation to escalate to a level that existed dur-ing the period of the post-1997 elections.

Caricom’s refusal to intervene must not be seen as being supportive of the APNU/AFC coalition Government’s constitutional breaches.

Regards, Zamal Hussain

Guyana can still have elections within 90 days; counting from June 18, 2019 Dear Editor, Over the past 24 hours, I have seen a lot of comments on social media after the decision was handed down by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on the NCM and the unilateral appointment of the GECOM Chairman. Whilst the decision of the CCJ did not specify a date for elections, President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders, urged all political parties to honour the Constitution of Guyana.

If we are to look carefully on this statement “honouring the Constitution” one can safely anticipate election on or before September 18 due to the directives of the Constitution saying that after the pas-sage of a NoConfidence Motion (NCM), the President and the Cabinet shall resign and call elections within 90 days.

It is with great hope that if the Government should honour the Constitution, it, therefore,

means that we can have an election within the stipulated time of the Constitution, ie, within 90 days counting from June 18, 2019.

In conclusion, whilst the CCJ could not have given a specific date for elections, the Constitution of Guy-ana clearly gives a timeframe should we honour same.

Sincerely, Ranjeev Singh

act to save Guyana from further decay

Dear Editor, Over the coming weeks, the international community will be subjected to numerous Guyanese voices pleading for swift and decisive actions to ensure Guyana remains a democratic State.

It is now clear that left to his own devices, President Granger will not act in ‘good faith’; only pressure will bring about a change in approach, so, why are so many of us asking for international interventions? Surely this is an internal affair for the people of the nation to resolve.

Make no mistake, the people will not abdicate their struggle to others, we will use every legal right enshrined in our Constitution to fight for our democracy; no avenue will be left unexplored, however, as righteous a struggle as it may be, there are other possible consequences that I (and others) hope can be avoided.

Guyanese are well aware of the measures dictators employ to hold onto ‘power’, on Saturday, July 13, the Minister of Public Security appeared on television in Berbice to remind viewers that Government has “what it takes” to ensure the stability and security if faced with protest and/or strike action.

Guyana’s early history has been one of racial violence. During the years immediately prior to independence and for over two de-

cades afterwards, Guyanese were constantly separated by a Machiavellian Forbes Burnham.

Divide and rule was a mantra for his Government. As his control grew, the need for violence subsided and Burnham ruled by fear and then there were the occasional suspicious deaths and/or murders; Father Bernard Darke, Education Minister Vincent Teekah and Dr Walter Rodney were among the victims. Guyana has emerged from these constant racial confrontations and is in a period close to harmony.

Younger people cannot fathom the animosities of the past returning, but the constant reminders from political actors, who seek to stir dying embers, persist. The fear of those bursting into flames is the main reason we seek international assistance in our national affairs.

We know all too well that damage done on one day of hasty action takes generations to repair.

There are no more excuses for inaction from nations, entities and persons that care about democracy, about Guyana and her people. We will be looking at those who lend aid to our struggle and those who are willing to just stand there and watch us burn.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

news 7

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019| guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘President must act in accordance with the law’

…Guyana’s Private Sector roasts APNU/AFC for failing to honour Constitution 7 months after no-confidence vote passed

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he Private Sector Commission (PSC), in its strongest statement yet, on Wednesday slammed the coalition Government for failing to honour the Constitution of Guyana and Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) rulings.

According to the Commission, over seven months have elapsed since the No-Confidence Motion (NCM) was passed.

Yet, the Government has failed to call a date for elections, which were already several months overdue.

Article 106 (6) of the Constitution of Guyana states: “The Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

M e a n w h i l e , Article 106 (7) states: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than twothirds of the votes of all

the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.”

“The Court has made plain that the provisions of our Constitution and “their meaning is clear”, and the Court holds that “it is the responsibility of constitutional actors in Guyana to honour them,” the PSC said in its statement.

“It is the considered view of the Private Sector that this responsibility abides first, and foremost, with President David Granger and that it is his burden and inherent political duty to uphold this responsibility.”

According to the group, it was necessary for the politicians to uphold the rule of law and respect the Constitution, as urged by the international community, to ensure there is no confusion in the country.

“The Court has, quite properly, restrained from “the issuance of coercive orders or detailed directives” to our national leaders, but asserted that it is for the President and, indeed, the Leader

Newly-elected members of the Private Sector Commission

of the Opposition “guided by the constitutional imperatives” to ensure that the consequences of the No-Confidence Motion are imposed upon the Government. The Private Sector wishes to note some seven months have passed and they are yet to be acted upon,” the PSC stated.

“The Caribbean Court had earlier ruled that the unilateral appointment by President Granger of the Chairman of the GECOM was “flawed” and that the President, in fact, had, therefore, acted in contravention of the constitutional requirement to appoint the Chairman from six names submitted by the Leader of the

Opposition. The Private Sector Commission, therefore, calls upon the President to act expeditiously in fulfilling his constitutional responsibility in this regard.”

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had submitted a list of nominees for GECOM Chairperson that included Retired Major General Joe Singh, who served as GECOM Chairman years ago; environmentalist Annette Arjoon-Martins; Retired Justice of Appeal BS Roy; businessman Captain Gerry Gouveia; Attorney-at-Law Kashir Khan; former Magistrate Krishnadatt Persaud; conflict resolution specialist Lawrence Latchmansingh; Retired

Major General Norman McLean, businessman Ramesh Dookhoo, Retired Puisne Judge William Ramlall and Onesi La Fleur.

But in a turnaround, President David Granger then submitted an informal list of nominees of his own that featured former GECOM Chairman, Retired Justice James Patterson, in addition to Retired Justices Claudette La Bennett and Stanley Moore, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Chairperson and Attorney Kesaundra Alves, economist Aubrey Armstrong and former Solicitor General Kim Kyte. The President also proposed known People’s

National Congress (PNC)-affiliates and businessmen Stanley Ming (a former PNC parliamentarian) and Kads Khan.

While the Constitution does not allow the President to submit names, Jagdeo in a compromise agreed to consider the President’s suggestion of names in an informal process.

The President subsequently gave his no-objection to four of Jagdeo’s nominees. Alves and La Bennett were then put forward by the President as shortlists of his own.

However, the Opposition Leader has since deemed these two nominees as “unacceptable” to him, with the likelihood that he would submit another list of names to the President.

Meanwhile, pressure has been continually mounting on the Government to uphold the Constitution and set a date for elections.

Among those urging the Government to do the right thing are the international community, the trade unions, the parliamentary opposition, and sections of society.

Child advocacy centres in Regions 10, 4 underway T

he Social P r o t e c t i o n Ministry, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has recently concluded an evaluation exercise in Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and Timehri, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), where construction of Child Advocacy Centres are now underway.

This was disclosed

by Region Four Health Officer Quincy Jones, who noted that the initiative was one developed by the Social Protection Ministry in its effort to provide and properly care for vulnerable children.

UNICEF has so far contributed to the initiation of these projects by donating some G$4 million in equipment, including televisions, forensic kits, and computers to be utilised by the beneficiaries when the Centres are completed.

“We have already received millions in donation from UNICEF for these centres and we are working to ensure

struction and the establishment for that Child Advocacy Centre was also budgeted,” Jones noted.

The establishment of these new centres is the fulfilment of a prom-

Regional Health Officer, Quincy Jones

each location sees the establishment of a Child Advocacy Centre before the end of 2019,” he explained.

In addition, Jones said that the Centres would be housed within the Kwakwani Hospital Complex and at the Timehri Health Centre, since these were ideal locations for cases of such nature to be dealt with.

“At the Kwakwani Hospital, the facility will be set up within the Hospital and at the Timehri Health Centre for that district. The Timehri Health Centre is presently under con-

ise made by the Ministry during the commissioning ceremony of a similar centre at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) back in 2018.

Like the centre in Linden, these facilities

will be child-friendly and staffed by counsellors, parent-skills educators as well as forensic interviewers.

The Child Advocacy Centre is a child-focused, facility-based pro-

gramme in which representatives from law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, mental health, medical and victim advocacy work to provide healing for survivors of abuse.

8 news

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Top Cop says SOCU head to be replaced soon P

o l i c e Commissioner Leslie James has made known the administration’s intention to replace Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Sydney James.

Speaking on Wednesday on the sidelines of the Police Awards Ceremony held at the Tactical Services Unit’s Drill Square at Eve Leary, the top cop said the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will soon issue a release naming the replacement of Sydney James.

“I can say to you that, a little later today, I will make an announcement as regards the replacement of the head of SOCU,” Commissioner James said.

The SOCU Head was recently sent on administrative leave amidst allegations of mismanagement of funds at the unit. The decision came months after a special audit had unearthed several instances of mismanagement of funds and falsification of doc-

uments at the entity.

The audit had also found some unaccounted-for expenditure, which could not be verified by a paper trail.

The audit was ordered by the Police Commissioner in February; and although the Top Cop has not commented on the findings of that audit, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan had described the revelations as “damning”.

The probe into the operations of the white-collar crime-fighting unit was triggered after the former British adviser Dr Sam Sittlington had made a number of allegations against the Unit.

Following those allegations, James was questioned over allegations of improper spending. This is in light of the ongoing investigation and audit which was conducted after termination of the British adviser’s services.

The Public Security Minister had confirmed that an investigation was ongoing into the

SOCU’s embattled head, Sydney James

matter, and he had noted that there were allegations of monies not being spent properly and had said it is now within the jurisdiction of the investigators to understand the spending procedures at SOCU. After being fired amidst a conflict-of-interest scandal, Sittlington had revealed that SOCU had not been operating in the manner in which it should, and he had said there are instances

of improper spending.

The parliamentary Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has maintained that SOCU, which was set up to fight money-laundering and other white-collar crimes, has become a political unit under the APNU/AFC regime.

The PPP had said that Sittlington was going beyond his advisory role and was taking on executive functions.

It was pointed out that

Sittlington was going on operations such as raids and arrests.

SOCU, also, was under scrutiny after its Deputy Director, Sheronie James, had resigned following a local Magistrate disqualifying her as an expert witness based on her lack of qualifications.

Ramjattan had said James was recommended by senior officials after she had indicated her qualifications, which the Public Security Ministry had thought were genuine.

Questions were previously raised about the Police investigating James, and whether there could be any bias involved; however, the Public Security Minister had assured that the investigation was perfectly normal, and that in addition to the Police’s own internal audits ongoing at SOCU, the Auditor General could come in and take control of the proceedings.

He had said the Police auditors were seeking to better understand the

systems which had been in place for spending at the agency.

This comes even as the parliamentary Opposition had expressed concern about SOCU moving away from its original mandate.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had previously charged that SOCU’s mandate was not being delivered, especially since it was suspected of taking political directives. He had noted that that was responsible for its failure rate.

SOCU has had several of its cases tossed out of the courts, including a number of charges against former Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) executives and Guyana Bank of Trade and Industry (GBTI) directors.

The Opposition has since called for the Unit to be dismantled, but President David Granger has contended that Government would instead work to restore public confidence in SOCU.

95 persons died from snakebite over 5-year period in Guyana A

n estimated 95 persons have died over a five-year period as a result of being bitten by venomous snakes, the Public Health Ministry noted.

“From accessible statistics (2010–2014), documents show that there were 1, 190 cases of snakebite resulting in the death of 95 persons,” the Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

The statistics show that adult males are more vulnerable to the lethal bites from these dangerous reptiles.

In an effort to improve its response protocol to snakebites, the Ministry purchased an anti-venom treatment from Costa Rica, which is currently available at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

GPHC currently has the capacity to implement the new protocol and the institution also has the ability to manage possible complications from the use of anti-venom, including allergic/anaphylactic reactions, which could be life-threatening.

The most common anaphylactic reactions are to insect stings, foods, latex, and medications.

If one is allergic to a substance, one’s immune system overreacts to the allergen by releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.

Meanwhile, GPHC’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit is spearheading a training scheme for all relevant staff at Regional and District Hospitals nationwide to help prevent overburdening of its central system.

The Ministry said it is also exploring the best practices to monitor the physiological effects of envenomation (the process by which venom is injected into a victim through bite or sting) and its complications. The current management protocols include supporting pain control, tetanus protection, blood transfusion, infection control and wound care for victims.

As part of the snake-

bite sensitisation plan, communities will be educated about proper measures to implement to minimise contact with snakes and avoiding their deadly bites.

Community involvement is important The Ministry is also seeking the cooperation of all residents of high-risk areas, including farms, forested areas, woodlands, grasslands and newly developed housing areas to: 1. Ensure that possible breeding sites for snakes be reduced by eliminating, dumping and heaping organic and vegetation waste such as branches, weeds, cuttings and coconut shells.

2. Remove overgrown vegetation that may serve as avenues to residents’ yards and public waterways by dangerous species of snakes.

3. Desist from discarding/dumping unused foods and food materials indiscriminately, which may attract rats and also snakes (searching for food) to the domestic surroundings.

4. Use personal protective equipment (PPEs) and observe caution signs when exploring, clearing, or venturing into highrisk areas.

Guyana is home to a wide variety of species of

snakes, and of these, four are known to be deadly: the Labaria (Bothrops atrox), the Carpet Labaria (Bothrops taeniata), and its close relative, the Bushmaster (Lachesis muta).

The latter is found in most parts of the country but is especially prevalent in the moist coastal plains, rainforest and arid grasslands.

The other deadly species include the

Rupununi Rattler (Crotalus durissus) found mainly in the savannah grasslands and the Coral Snake (Elapids) found in a variety of environments and move seasonally to diverse areas in search of food.

Guyana’s economy still depends heavily on agriculture, farming, logging and mining, and this exposes locals to the risk of contact with venomous snakes.

Search ongoing for...

This resulted in a breakdown in those talks after the Government’s side could not say definitively whether those names shortlisted, as well as those suggested by President, are not objectionable to him.

The process was then referred back to the two political leaders and after several exchanges of correspondences over the weekend, Granger and Jagdeo finally met on Tuesday. Coming out of that meeting, the President found four of the Opposition’s nominees “not unacceptable”. The two sides also agreed that the hammering out process will continue with a smaller team and during

that process, the two names suggested by the President, along with others “as may be necessary”, will be further discussed.

Informal process

Meanwhile, speaking with reporters after Wednesday’s meeting, Ali reminded that the hammering out process is informal and as such, more can be expected from the Opposition Leader in order to have consensus in the six names that will be submitted to the President for the GECOM Chair selection.

Adding to this, Nandlall explained that the language of the CCJ must be read and inter-

from page 5

preted in the context of Article 161 (2) which, among other things, gives the Opposition Leader the responsibility to continue to produce names to the President until his selection is made.

“The character of that exercise cannot change, so it’s not for the President to keep sending (names).

This process is to find the not acceptability of the President, nothing else.

And when the CCJ said what they said, it must be construed from that context, that names must continue to come from the Leader of the Opposition until the President says yes…,” the former Attorney General stated.

NEWS 9

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Linden to Lethem road woes

Reg 8 Chairman bemoans lack of competent

contractors to build all-weather road E ven as businesses, residents and other users of the Linden to Lethem road continue to fume over the deplorable state of the road, the Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) Chairman, Bonaventure Fredericks, has admitted that there is a need for competent contractors to execute these much-needed road works.

In an interview with Guyana Times International on Monday, Fredericks pointed out that oftentimes, these road work contracts are awarded to inexperienced contractors who may not possess the necessary knowledge for building all-weather roads.

“We need to have contractors that are knowledgeable about road building and who knows what type of materials to use to for all-weather road. But we have people that may have a truck or two and then they just go and throw stuff and then it’s not compacted and it’s not properly done and we’re back to square one again. Just days ago, the Ministry spend G$4 million to repair certain sections of the said [road] and look at the condition of it again,” Fredericks added.

He, however, noted that this responsibility of road works and awarding of contracts for such works falls primarily under the purview of the Public Infrastructure Ministry.

He added that despite calls by the Regional Administration for funds to be available within its budget for executing regular maintenance works, they have been told by the MOPI that the maintenance of all roads and bridges across the country falls under their Ministry.

“So if there’s any work to be done, the Ministry has to be con-

The deplorable condition of a section of the Linden to Lethem road

tacted before anything can be done and this can be a very time-consuming process. We had this problem and we are still having it,” he said. “It’s kind of disturbing when we have these types of emergencies to work on and then we have to wait on Ministry to do what has to be done.

We [do] not have that type of go-ahead from our Administration to say when an emergency comes up we get into it right away, we have to wait on the Ministry and while the waiting period is on, the residents suffer and that is what I’m not too happy about… that type of slow movements that happens while people suffer,” Fredericks added.

Further, Fredericks stated that the Ministry has been selecting the contractors for those works. They also have an engineer on the ground who checks on these works when completed.

“We need to understand that even though they may have these en-

Road to first...

Guyana recently established ties with Aberdeen, from where expertise can be provided for the oil industry.

ExxonMobil had previously said there is potential for at least five floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels on the Stabroek Block, producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025.

Startup of the Liza Phase 1 development is on track to begin by the first quarter of 2020, and

this well is expected to produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO. Liza Phase 2 is expected to start up by mid2022. A final investment decision is expected soon, subject to Government and regulatory approvals. Upon approval, the project plans to use the Liza Unity FPSO to produce up to 220,000 barrels per day.

Sanctioning of a third development, Payara, is also expected in 2019,

gineers I keep saying that some of them they may have their certificates and their diplomas and they only know the theory but now that they have to do the practical, they really can’t manage but we are the ones here who understand what’s happening. We are not getting our full value for what is being spent because I remember hearing that the Ministry spend $4 mil to do that piece of road a few days ago and look how it is now and we still not where we want to be,” he said.

Fredericks explained that the recent road works were completed by a businessman who is not a contractor but has equipment that could have assisted. “This was a miner that does mining that they [Ministry] asked to do the work because they have the equipment; they have truck, bulldozers, excavators and they asked him to do it. He is not a road contractor. The Ministry hasn’t disfrom page 3

with startup projected for 2023.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, is operator of, and holds 45 per cent interest in, the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds 25 per cent interest.

patched a team to do the work or anything of that sort,” he added.

Chairman Fredericks also highlighted that the stretch of road going to Lethem is in a deplorable state. “It’s terrible there.

I was assisting some of the very bus men traversing the road in get-

ting their buses out of the pools they were in because I went with a 4×4 pick-up and I was able to help them,” he said.

Fredericks also pointed out that no response was received from the MOPI in relation to the recent reports of the road while adding that

most of the contact with the Ministry is done through their engineer and the regional authorities have no information if measures are to be taken if the Ministry’s engineer on the ground does not report to them .“So if the engineer does not report back to us we do not know what the next steps are. They keep blaming the weather because, with the rainy weather nothing much can be done even though it is true to an extent people still have to live, we have to get food we have to get fuel we have to get stuff into our region. It doesn’t make sense waiting on the weather when work can be done,” he said.

On Sunday minibus operators and residents once again complained that the road is in a deplorable condition after only recently being repaired. They expressed frustration over the situation, which continues to create hardships for them and blamed the authorities for giving road contracts to “fly by night” contractors that do not possess the relevant knowledge or equipment to do the job.

10 news

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jagdeo lobbies int’l community to ensure Govt complies with Constitution

W

ith the caretaker Government being called out to honour the Constitution of Guyana and the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) rulings, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has begun engaging the diplomatic community in order to bring Guyana’s constitutional crisis to their attention.

The Opposition Leader made this announcement during a press conference at his Church Street, Georgetown office on Monday. According to Jagdeo, he has already commenced discussions with representatives of the Caribbean Community.

Jagdeo met with Secretary General of Caricom, Erwin LaRoque and noted that these discussions will continue with the wider diplomatic bloc, representatives of which he plans to brief during the course of the week.

“I just met with the Secretary General of Caricom…and I said to him that the regional institution has ruled.

I would like to have the judgement sent to all the Heads of Government of the region. So they won’t get the spin from third parties. They are very capable persons; they will read the judgment.”

The Opposition Leader said that he is aware that the caretak-

er Government will frustrate the process and try to defy the judgement of the Court.

“We know now that APNU will frustrate and try to defy the judgement of the Court. Is [the international community] prepared to accept the judgement of the highest court? Because if they’re prepared to accept the ruling… then that will determine how they relate to this Government.

They have to relate to the Government in a caretaker capacity and urge the Government to uphold the Constitution,” Jagdeo added.

Jagdeo also noted the implications if the Government continues to disregard the Constitution and the court ruling. He referenced the case Guyana has before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Venezuela, which has

laid claim to a large section of the country.

Constitutional crisis He stated that the country is in a full-fledged constitutional crisis.

“We’re in a fullfledged constitutional crisis… by selectively interpreting and redefining and distorting what the Court said, it’s putting us at the risk that when we have a ruling at the ICJ and it’s in favour of Guyana, Venezuela could do the same thing….And we’d have no moral authority to argue that they must respect the decision of the ICJ. Because here we have a Government distorting and not respecting the decision of a regional court. They are exposing our country, but this doesn’t affect this cabal. They are there for one reason. Not for [the] country. They don’t care how we are viewed around the world.”

Jagdeo expressed a willingness, however, to write the ICJ in support of the Government’s position against Venezuela on the border controversy. Already, Venezuela has shown signs of not respecting the court’s authority in the matter.

Although the ICJ fixed April 18, 2019, as the date for Venezuela to submit a CounterMemorial on Jurisdiction, following the submission of Guyana’s own Memorial, Venezuela did not make any submission on that date.

Western nations As the parliamentary Opposition continues to mount pressure, the international community is urging the country’s political players to act swiftly and in compliance with the Constitution, as ordered by the CCJ. In a joint statement issued on Monday, mem-

bers of the diplomatic community in Guyana, including the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union, stated that they have taken note of the CCJ’s pronouncements on July 12.

They said it is important for the rule of law that all invoked actors abide by the CCJ’s ruling and the relevant provisions of the Constitution.

The diplomats furthered urged that this adherence be done expeditiously.

“The Caribbean Court of Justice – Guyana’s Supreme Court – has spoken. It is important for the rule of law that all invoked actors abide by its ruling and the relevant provisions of the Constitution. We urge everyone to do so expeditiously,” the diplomats said in the joint communique.

This follows statements issued by

the Private Sector Commission (PSC), which also urged compliance with the Court and Constitution. According to the PSC in a statement, the appointment of a new Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman must be done the right way. The Commission, which is the umbrella body for the business community, warned that President David Granger must not go down the road of another unilateral appointment.

“The Private Sector Commission of Guyana has noted with great concern the recent consequential order ruling following the final ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on June 12, 2019, in respect to the no-confidence vote against the Government on December 21, 2018, which was validly and properly passed,” the Commission said in the statement.

“In view of the given political and constitutional circumstances, the PSC wishes to register its position – having the highest regard for the respect of the Constitution and the rule of law and order, for the President and Opposition Leader to appoint as a matter of urgency – a Chairman for GECOM from the list submitted by the Leader of the Opposition.”

Education Minister refers questions on audit of UG finances to Council

A

fter requesting that the Audit Office of Guyana (AOG) conduct an audit into the University of Guyana (UG) finances, the Education Ministry mysteriously withdrew its request for the audit.

Now, it is deferring to the UG council when asked for an explanation.

In a brief interview with this publication on Monday, Education Minister Nicolette Henry was asked about the reasons behind the Ministry’s decision to withdraw its request for the audit and was now disinclined to pay the auditor that the AOG procured.

But the Minister referred all questions to UG. “The University of Guyana is managed by a council. I would appreciate if you direct the question to the council so far as its operations are concerned,” she said, adding that the Ministry would be willing to provide any additional clarity.

When the Ministry withdrew its request, the audit office had heeded widespread calls to continue the exercise anyway. But on Monday, Auditor General Deodat Sharma had revealed in an in-

terview with this publication that the special audit had been stalled until authorities can figure out who will stand the expense involved in conducting the probe.

Initially, the Audit Office of Guyana had contracted an independent company to conduct the much-needed and highly-anticipated audit into UG – in light of allegations of the mismanagement of funds.

The audit was first ordered by the Education Ministry after a request was made by the two workers’ unions at UG to have such an investigation launched. The Ministry was going to stand the expense associated with the investigation.

However, this newspaper was told that shortly after the independent company commenced its work into the matter, the Education Ministry withdrew its request for the audit with no explanation given.

Nonetheless, the Audit Office had committed to going ahead with the probe. But according to Auditor General (AG) Deodat Sharma, owing to issues regarding lack of finances, the audit is currently

Education Minister Nicolette Henry

at a standstill.

Less than three weeks ago, AG Sharma had noted that the backlog of years that UG did not complete its audited financial statements was a cause for worry.

“The issue [is] UG’s audited [financials] were up to 2017. They’ve now submitted financial statements for 2015. So we still have 16, 17, and 18 due. So until you get those statements and audits up to date, you really can’t do a proper audit, unless you do a special investigation in partic-

Auditor General, Deodat Sharma

ular areas”.

Sharma, whose agency audits Government’s public accounts on an annual basis, went on to note the importance of having those accounts up to date up to 2018. He was not convinced about the UG administration’s sincerity in clearing this backlog.

UG’s administration has previously been accused of wanton spending— including hosting several events, standing the expenses of meals and accommodation for guest speakers, as well as hiring select individuals, paying them

super salaries, and sending large delegations overseas, all on the University’s bill. Former Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith had always denied those claims.

The University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU) have levelled these accusations in particular. The Unions had joined forces to question why monies were allocated in previous budgets to entities which do not exist and what became of those funds.

They had also demanded answers from the administration on how much money was spent on nonessential events within the last two and half years — which included, but were not limited to, the Law and Society series, the Turkeyen-Tain talks, and the Vice-Chancellor’s installation ceremony.

They had argued that while these monies were being spent, the core units of the University, which include faculties and schools, had been informed that no money is available for essential repairs and payment for stationery, among others.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Opposition rebuffs Govt’s attempts to seek nominees for State Boards

T

he caretaker Government’s efforts to seek nominees to various boards from the parliamentary Opposition have been rebuffed, with the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) reminding it that formulating State Boards when a NoConfidence Motion (NCM) has been passed was illegal.

It was only on Friday that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) reaffirmed its position that the Government should be acting in a caretaker capacity. Its ruling on the NCM was issued since June 18.

Article 106 (6) of the Constitution states: “The Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

Yet, in a letter dated July 10, caretaker Finance Minister Winston Jordan invited the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to submit a nominee to sit on the Investment and Macro Economic Committees of the Natural Resources Fund. The Fund was established in accordance with Act No 12 of 2019.

“The Office of the Leader of the Opposition wishes to remind you that this activity, which you seek to engage in, by inviting our nominations is unauthorised, outside of your constitutional mandate, and is not properly set in law,” PPP/C parliamentarian and former junior Finance Minister, Juan Edghill, wrote in response to the invitation in a missive dated July 15 that was seen by Guyana Times International.

adhere to the rulings of the CCJ, in all matters.”

Oil money

Former Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill

Caretaker Finance Minister Winston Jordan

“Act No 12 of 2019 followed as a result of a Bill that was debated in the National Assembly after December 21, 2018, when your Government was defeated by a majority vote on a motion of no confidence. In essence, your Government and you lost the mandate to pursue such actions as you did on January 3, 2019; you proceeded even against the best of advice and public pronouncements made.”

Edghill went on to remind the caretaker Minister of the CCJ’s consequential orders and the Judge’s reference to the Constitution’s unambiguous provisions. He, therefore, noted that the Minister’s actions were outside of what a caretaker government

could do.

“It, therefore, follows that the Executive is now resigned and Government remains in office for the purpose of holding general and regional elections. As a member of the resigned Cabinet, you are not authorised to pursue the matters contained in the above-mentioned correspondences to the Leader of the Opposition.”

According to the Party, there can be no appointment of members of either the Macroeconomic Committee or the Investment Committee. “As such, there will be no nominations from the Leader of the Opposition. It is our hope that your Government and you will comply with the Constitution and

Earlier this year, the now caretaker Government signed the Natural Resources Fund Bill into law. The Bill sets out, among other things, a 22-member Public Accountability and Oversight Committee that will oversee the fund.

The Committee is supposed to include representatives from the media, Private Sector and the Bar Association. Among other things, it will oversee what decisions are taken regarding spending from the Fund, whether on social development or investments.

Following its 10th discovery of oil in the Stabroek Block, ExxonMobil had estimated the recoverable resource in the block to be five billion oil-equivalent barrels. With oil at US$50 a barrel, that equates to well over US$200 billion.

ExxonMobil has since revised this figure upwards after three more discoveries, the last one being at the Yellowtail-1 well in April. More drilling is also scheduled for this year and it was only recently that its first Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel bound for Guyana, the Liza Destiny, was commissioned.

In addition, an independent assessment, or competent persons’ report, had found that 2.9 billion barrels of oil existed in the Orinduik block.

All of this will represent a monetary windfall for Guyana, which will be saved and invested through a Natural Resources Fund.

12 news

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘We need justice’

…family, colleagues call for thorough probe into death of nurse at Mahdia

S

cores of nurses attached to the Linden Complex Hospital, Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Berbice), along with family members of Schenise Apple, who was found dead in Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), took to the streets of Linden on Monday calling for justice for the nurse.

Apple, who was a nurse attached to the Mahdia Hospital, was discovered hanging at the Nurses’ Hostel in Mahdia on July 2, 2019. It was alleged that she committed suicide.

The post-mortem examination released by the police on Friday revealed that Apple died as a result of asphyxiation and as such, the matter is being treated as a homicide, however, no arrest has been made as Police continue their investigations.

On Monday nurses and family members gathered outside of the Linden Hospital Complex for two hours, chanting slogans calling or justice to be served in relation to Apple’s death.

Holding placards bearing slogans such as “Better security needed”, “Nurses rights are human rights”, “Justice for Nurse Apple” and “What affects one affects all” family, friends and nurses marched along Casaurina Drive, Mackenzie, as they shouted “Justice for Nurse Apple”, “We need justice” and “Nurse Apple need justice”.

Speaking with Guyana Times International, one of the nurses related that Apple, who resided in Linden, was a quiet and jovial person who did not deserve such a death.

The nurse related that the protest action was birthed by a group of nurses from Linden,

Dead: Schenise Apple

Nurses from Linden Hospital Complex protesting

who felt that action by Police is being delayed and they were worried that this will be another murder investigation that goes cold or unsolved.

“We want justice for our colleague. She was sent there to do a job and she was there serving the people diligently.

She should have been protected. The system failed her. She was such a young soul definitely gone too soon and we believe that if we do not stand up and demand action, nothing will be done,” she said.

The nurses said they will continue to protest as often as possible for as long as possible until a thorough and transparent investigation is done and justice is served.

Meanwhile, also speaking with this publication, Apple’s

grandmother, Volda Daniels, claimed that the family members were not allowed to witness the post-mortem examination. She, however, claimed that she saw what appeared to be burn marks on the woman’s neck prior to the examination.

“We want a speedy investigation, they must find the culprits…She was a quiet and decent young woman. That girl never in no story with nobody, why they do her like that? She left here, they send she so to work and now she’s dead. I’m calling on Ramjattan, the Security Minister and Health Minister Volda Lawrence, let them go to Region Eight and investigate fully …she was working and she served this country as a young woman, she had a bright future and

I think they should do something,” Daniels lamented.

The woman added that she buried her son only nine months ago under similar circumstances and the family is yet to receive justice. She was referring to Sherwin Apple, who was killed some time ago after he was implicated in the alleged rape of the Linden minor which was caught on video. Daniels noted, however, that justice must be served for her granddaughter as she called for staff at the hospital to also be investigated.

“Why is it the Government taking so long to hold these people?” the dead woman’s uncle questioned on Monday. The family is also claiming that someone at the location was using the deceased woman’s

cellphone after her death.

Prior to her death, Apple had been working at the location for nine months. She was initially expected to work there for a year. Minister Lawrence has since made calls for a full probe into the nurse’s death.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has also joined the calls.

Meanwhile, a usually reliable source from Mahdia, Region Eight, told this publication that there are reports in the mining town that the nurse was murdered and the suicide was staged. “Everyone saying that the young lady was murdered. They are saying that from how the body was discovered, it was as if it was placed there, and who would hang themselves with a towel? It just doesn’t add up,” the source opined.

Speaking with this publication, a nurse said that no one saw Apple during the day of July 2, but that was nothing strange.

“It is normal when you finish the night shift to sleep most of the day. So after no one saw her, we didn’t take it for anything,” a nurse told this publication.

However, at about 18:15h, another colleague inquired about Apple and it was then that they visited the hostel and found her body.

The police were notified and the woman’s body was removed.

Trio sentenced for killing professor

“This is a very sad case.

Here I have in front of me are three persons who are still children,” Justice Navindra Singh said on Tuesday as he considered suitable sentences for three teenagers who had confessed to killing Professor Pariedeau Mars in 2016.

The three that confessed to the crime are 18-year-old Naomi Adams, 20-year-old Nikkisha Dover, and 19-yearold Orin McCrae. The convicted trio were represented

by Attorneys Mark Conway, Mohammed Ali and Adrian Thompson respectively.

Initially charged for the capital offence of murder, the teenagers recently opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter and their sentencing was deferred to Tuesday for presentation of a probation report.

The joint charge read that on May 12, 2016, in the county of Demerara, they killed Pariedeau Mars, also called ‘Perry’, in furtherance of a robbery.

Jailed: Orin Mc Crae

Dead: Professor Pariedeau Mars

Jailed: Naomi Adams

In pleas of mitigation to the Court, each defence counsel asked that Justice Singh consider the fact that their clients were ages 15, 16 and 17 respectively when the senseless crime was committed and also that they did not waste the Court’s time and pleaded guilty on first appearances.

Moreover, Attorney Thompson on his client’s behalf (McCrae) specifically highlighted that he has been

attending anger management classes during his time spent on remand. Meanwhile, Attorney Conway noted that his client (Adams) has also been attending anger management classes and church services regularly.

However, the prosecution which consisted of State Prosecutors Tuanna Hardy, Teriq Mohammed, and Sarah Martin, contended that the sentences should reflect the

nature, gravity, and circumstances in which the crime was committed, since Professor Mars died gruesomely.

As such, Justice Singh, before handing down the sentences, advised each of the convicted teens to use the time being incarcerated to complete their secondary education and prepare themselves for their release back into society.

Adams, being the first to confess to the crime, was sen-

tenced to 10 years imprisonment, while her co-accused Dover and McCrae were both sentenced to 12 years each. It was ordered that the prison authorities deduct the years spent on remand from each of the sentences imposed.

Timithy Paul Chance and Andre Benjamin are the two that remain accused of murder and are expected to face trials to determine their fate.

According to Police reports in 2016, 75-year-old Mars, of Bissessar Avenue, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown, was found bound and beaten in his home about 18:30h on May 12, 2016 by his wife. He was subsequently rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Investigations revealed that Dover was known to the now dead professor as she would visit his home. It was further revealed that the said accused confessed to conspiring with McCrae to rob the elderly man as he was home alone on the day of the incident.

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Lucky to be alive!

... young woman reveals harrowing details on the day she was almost killed by her abuser

Dead: Daniel Hinckson

By Kizzy Coleman

F

or two years, she suffered severe beatings at the hands of a man she truly loved and wanted to please. She was battered and bruised for many days but never got the courage to leave because the “love” kept her back. But now when she looks back, she wonders whether it was love or just deeply-rooted fear.

Now that he is dead, she does not know if she feels relieved, sad, or just a little bit of both. But what she does know, is that the fear that he will end her life no longer exists, even as she lies on a

Injured: Faith Thompson

bed at the hospital battling injuries he inflicted when he tried to kill her.

Guyana, and further beyond, got to know her story sometime about 11:00h on Tuesday after the news broke that her “love” shot her to the back of the neck and then committed suicide by turning the barrel of the same gun on himself. The name, Faith Thompson became known, following the incident, and many women immediately felt a feeling of familiarity with her story.

Thompson’s ex-lover, Daniel Hinckson, reportedly broke into her Lot 39 Norton Street, Lodge house— where she

lives with her uncle and 76-year-old great aunt— on Tuesday and shot her to the back of the neck before taking his own life.

As she laid on her bed in the female ward of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the 20-yearold is extremely thankful that she survived and shared her story with Guyana Times International.

With the visible scar from the gunshot wound, which almost caused her life, Thompson said that she was at home when she was startled by a knock on the door. She went to inspect and discovered it was 24-year-

The house on Norton Street, Georgetown where the shooting occurred on Tuesday

old Hinckson on the other side. Fear immediately overtook her and her mind went back to the horrific ordeal that occurred just over two weeks ago.

On that fateful day, Hinckson mercilessly beat her, causing her to report the matter to the Police and ultimately asking for a restraining order against him. She felt that the restraining order could have protected her for, at least, a few months, since she was of the opinion that he would run from the Police.

However, when she saw him on the other side of

her door, all that fear just crashed into her.

F r i g h t e n e d , Thompson immediately grabbed a bottle of pepper spray, which she had in the house and kept same in her pants’ waist.

However, before she could make an escape, Hinckson had already gained entry into the house through a window.

“Pepper spray saved my life,” Thompson said.

“I thought that he would have ran from the Police because they were looking for him but he came and looked for me.

So when he jumped in, I ran to the back door but

I couldn’t have open it so fast, so I run into my uncle room and I hide” Thompson recounted.

Even behind bolted doors, the petrified young woman knew she was not safe. The only way she could have been safe was if she was as far away as possible from the man she once loved. Upon seeing the now dead young man in her house, Thompson’s great aunt began inquiring as to how access was gained and seemed to be content when she was told that he had a key issued by her son. turn to page 21

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NY based democracy centre urges Guyana Govt to comply with Constitution

President David Granger and some members of his Cabinet

T

he International Center for Democracy (ICD) and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) have become the latest organisations to urge the Government

to comply with the Constitution of Guyana and recent Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) rulings.

In a statement on Tuesday, the ICD expressed concern that the appointment of a new Chairman of GECOM is being used as a barrier to timely elections.

According to the group, Guyana’s economic future with oil and gas cannot be derailed by unconstitutionality. It called on the Government to take its caretaker responsibilities seriously, noting that carrying on as though it’s business as usual flies in the face of the CCJ rulings. The ICD, therefore, urged political leaders to come together to resolve Guyana’s burgeoning constitutional crisis.

“A democratic Guyana, with an economy that can benefit enormously from a new oil and gas industry beginning in 2020, can be the model for transforming a developing country.

This opportunity can only be squandered by a pathway whereby the Constitution is railroaded. All stakeholders must work diligently to avoid the trajectory Guyana is on at this time,” the group stated.

The New Yorkbased group went on to urge the Caribbean Community, the ABC countries, the Inter American and Caribbean Development Banks and the World Bank to do their part in keeping Guyana on the right path.

The ICD also urged stakeholders, including the international community, to speak out and encourage the Government and the Opposition to ensure Guyana remains within the family of democratic nations.

“Subverting the

Constitution is not consistent with a democratic nation and, unfortunately, Guyana is on the pathway of total subversion of its Constitution.

Voices must be raised to encourage the stakeholders to be faithful to democratic principles and the Constitution,” the group added.

FITUG M e a n w h i l e , FITUG also urged the Government to “do the right thing”. According to the workers’ union, the CCJ rulings are clear and unambiguous.

FITUG noted the need for Guyana’s leaders to now act with integrity.

It expressed dismay that based on utterances from persons associated with the coalition, the Government seemed not to have any intent to be compliant. It noted that this does not bode well for the future, considering Guyana is supposed to experience exponential economic growth.

“We must express concern too, having taken account of statements that followed the CCJ ruling emanating from the Government, and more so President David Granger. Though we felt that the ruling was clear and unambiguous, it appears not to be the case when the Government’s utterances are considered.”

FITUG made it clear that for the Government to do otherwise is to plunge Guyana down a path that reverses previous efforts and struggles for democracy and the rule of law. The umbrella union body noted that even though the ruling was clear and ambiguous to it, the Government appeared to be confused about its meaning.

“This is disheartening, dismaying and is a worrying state of affairs that calls attention to a disrespect for the rule of law while not upholding our democratic culture and practices. turn to page 21

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Woman to spend 20 years behind bars for strangling 8-yrold son to death

Little Emmanuel King Jailed: Sonia King

J

ustice Navindra Singh on Tuesday imposed a sentence of 20 years, on the mother of eight year-old Emmanuel King, who died at the hands of the said woman that was expected to protect him.

In a heartless act, Sonia King placed a bed sheet over her son’s head and strangled him to death while he was asleep. The mother formerly of Lot 565 Parfait Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), confessed to the lesser count of manslaughter at her first court appearance.

During this matter, the convicted woman was represented by Attorney Mark Conway, while the state’s case was presented by prosecutor’s Teriq Mohammed, Tuanna Hardy, and Sarah Martin.

King was slapped with the charge that detailed hat on February 21, 2016, in the county of Demerara, she killed Emmanuel King.

After a probation report was presented in court, Attorney Conway in an effort to provide mitigating factors on behalf of his client, informed the court that King been involved in hairdressing at the prison. He further stated that she expresses deep regrets for her actions.

Meanwhile, prosecutor Hardy told the court that King’s actions had caused much distraught to the child’s father and other family members, and thus the sentence should reflect that such senseless behaviors are not tolerated in society.

Hardy further high-

lighted that now dead child was very brave as he represented his country at a singing competition in another Caribbean country.

When asked why she committed the crime, King responded to Justice Singh saying, “It’s hurting me, I don’t really know what came over me at that moment”.

Nevertheless, Justice Singh pointed out that there is no excuse for her actions since this was her child.

As Justice Singh handed down the 20 years’ sentence, the younger King’s father, broke down in tears witnessing the woman he once shared a relationship with, facing the consequences for her actions.

The prison authorities were ordered to deduct the years spent on remand from the given sentence.

Reports are that King initially claimed that the child fell from a guava tree during the afternoon of February 21 after which he retired to bed. At about 22:00h, the mother had claimed that she went to check on the child but found him in a motionless state.

He was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. However, she later confessed that she killed the child due to frustration, saying that she took a bed sheet and choked the child to death while he was sleeping.

After the incident, King reportedly confessed to her husband to killing the child. She was arrested after confessing to investigators.

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63-yr-old put away for 20 years for rape of child

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ustice Simone MorrisRamlall on Monday handed down a 20-year imprisonment sentence to a 63-year-old man, who on his first court appearance admitted to the offence of rape committed in 2016.

The charge against Gregory Ramkissoon also known as “Skeage” stated that on January 4, 2016, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual penetration with a four-year-old

child.

Presenting the State’s case in the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court was Prosecutor Tuanna Hardy in association with Sarah Martin.

Meanwhile, the now convicted man was represented by Attorney Ravindra Mohabir.

Before handing down the sentence, Justice MorrisRamlall took into consideration the nature and

gravity of the offence, the manner in which it was committed, and the fact that Ramkissoon took an early plea and did not waste the court’s time.

He was given a total of 20 years’ imprisonment and will be eligible for parole after serving 15 years.

Ramkissoon was also convicted of indecent assault and sexual assault committed on the same victim.

Gregory Ramkissoon also known as “Skeage”

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5 arraigned for murder of ECD businessman, daughter

Almost two weeks after money changer Aaron Latchman, called “Star Boy”, and his teenage daughter, Arianna Latchman, were gunned down during a home invasion at their Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) residence, five men were on Monday afternoon arraigned for the heinous crime.

Charged for the capital offence of murder are: 25-year-old Mark Rufino, a labourer of Parika Facade, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); 37-yearold Paul Chan, called “Long Hair” or “Anthony”, a conductor of Lot 10 Dennis Street, Sophia, Greater Georgetown; 44-year-old Troy Abrams called “Rasta Man”, a vendor of Middle Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD); 37-yearold Lloyd Sadloo, of 220 Mocha Arcadia, EBD and 41-year-old Sean Thomas, called “Yankee”, an electrician of Lot 59 William Street, Kitty, Georgetown.

The men appeared before Magistrate Alisha George at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable charge was read to them. The charge stated that on July 4, 2019

Dead: Aaron Latchman and his teenage daughter, Arianna Latchman

at Robert Street, Better Hope, ECD, they murdered Aaron and Arianna Latchman in the furtherance of a robbery.

According to Police reports, on that fateful day, about 15:30h, the father-and-daughter duo had just returned to their Lot 58 Robert Street home when they were confronted by armed men.

Holding the two victims at gunpoint, the alleged robbers took the duo into the upper flat of their house, where the bandits demanded money. After receiving a bag containing

an undisclosed amount of cash, the men then shot the duo before escaping from the scene in a white Toyota Carina 212 motor car, which was parked some distance away.

Neighbours reported hearing gunshots and rushed to the victims’ assistance. The father and daughter were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

Post-mortem examinations conducted on the bodies revealed that the father was shot thrice while his daughter re-

ceived one fatal gunshot wound, resulting in their deaths.

Two of the accused murderers – Abrams and Sadloo – are known characters to the Police and the courts. Abrams was convicted in 2016 for two counts of robbery committed against America Street money changers Rayburn Fraser and Osaffo Ward. In November 2017, he was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the offence.

Meanwhile, Sadloo, who is said to be the al-

Lucky to be alive...

“He tell she that my uncle give him the key but my uncle didn’t give him no key because the door was locked. And if you get a key, you still can’t open it from outside. So I know that he jump through the window because the window did open and plus after when I asked him, he said that he jumped through the window”.

After he finished telling his concocted version of a story of how he gained access into the house, the now dead man took out a gun, “cranked” it and placed it on a table. He then began pacing in front of the room she was locked in. Like a scene out of a story, he picked up the gun, jumped a wall, and was in the room with her.

“When I saw the gun, I started crying and I asked him why he gotta do this and he said that I make it so. And he was saying all kind of things and afterwards, he put down the gun on the bed and he took out a knife he also had from his pants’ waist. He had me in the bedroom for like a whole half an hour talking a whole set of things”.

During this period, Thompson’s uncle returned home from work and after being informed that the duo was locked in

the bedroom, the man began demanding that the door be opened.

“He saw when my uncle came in from the window, so he pick up back the gun again and I tried to calm him down and I telling he go under the bed and hide but he didn’t want to do that. So he try opening windows to see if he could jump through but then he tell me to jump through the window and I tell he I can’t jump through the window because is a upstairs. But then I tried to tek he mind off of what was happening and I tell he go to the front window and jump and then I will jump but then while I doing that my uncle start yelling y’all open this door” the victim explained.

Grateful for the distraction, Thompson revealed that she quickly pulled out the bottle of pepper spray from her waist and sprayed Hinckson to his eyes. This caused a fight to ensue between the two and it was at the time that Hinckson used the gun to fire a shot to the back of Thompson’s head before turning the gun on himself.

“He fight me and put me on the bed and he shot me but like he couldn’t see good but then I hear a next gunshot but

leged mastermind of the double murder, had a murder case discharged in 2012, but was later convicted in 2016 of narcotics trafficking. Nevertheless, the convict managed to make yet another court appearance in 2018, where he was charged for several armed robberies.

Sadloo is also presently before the courts for possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition.

The five men were all remanded to prison until August 15, 2019, when they were expected to make their next court appearance.

Watching on the sidelines, as her husband’s and daughter’s alleged killers were escorted out of court, Tracy Waheeda broke down in tears while relating what the bereaved family was going through.

“I hope they’re not gonna go back on the road free out there, so that a next family can feel what I’m feeling … but looking at them, I could just imagine what my husband and daughter went through with them,” the tearful woman said.

Meanwhile, a senior officer refuted reports that suggested that the from page 13

I thought he shoot me again or shot my uncle. But after a while, I realise that I ain’t dead so I get up, open the door and when I turn around I see he lie down by the wardrobe in blood, so then I run outside and run pass my uncle, I run out on the road,” the young woman remembered.

Thompson, reportedly lost her shirt during the fight and ran on to the roadway half naked calling out for help.

However, she was rescued by her uncle, who quickly wrapped her with a towel and rushed her to GPHC. When she left Hinckson’s home some months ago, she thought that the proverbial slate was now clean and even began a new relationship. However, he got wind of it and demanded that it be ended.

“He was alright for a while but then he found out that I still used to talk to the boy and he got mad, that is when he beat me up right outside the yard in Norton Street and I ended up reporting the matter and I take out the restraining order,” Thompson revealed.

However, since that day, Hinckson was seen several times by neighbours lurking in the Norton Street yard.

men were paid by a friend of the now dead businessman to execute him. The Police arrested four of the five suspects on Thursday last. The first to be arrested was “Rasta Man”.

He was reportedly arrested at Front Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, after Police swooped down on a house there. After his arrest, he took the Police to Dennis Street, Sophia and Parika, where the others were arrested.

Additionally, a motor car used by the bandits that belonged to the dead businessman was found at Front Road. During a search of the vehicle, an illegal firearm and several rounds of ammunition were found.

As the detectives worked with several leads, Sadloo was arrested after his name was called by the four men. He was the one who reportedly provided them with the weapons that they used to murder the money changer and his daughter.

He was nabbed in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, and was described by two of the three men detained for the murders as “second in charge”.

NY based democracy... from page 16

For our Guyanese people, who in the past, struggled for the restoration of democracy and respect for law, this is an unwelcome reversal and one which is not reassuring of blissful times ahead, especially considering that Guyana is expected to be the world leader in economic growth in the coming years.”

The shenanigans and charades, it added, have been pursued for far too long and it is now time that we put Guyana and Guyanese first and be respectful of Guyana’s laws.

“It is in our interest and in the interest of future generations that we bequeath to them a society that is fully observant of democratic practices and respectful of the rule of law.”

These two groups are the latest to put pressure on the Government to respect the Constitution and court rulings, coming on the heels of the advocacy of the parliamentary Opposition, and statements from the diplomatic community and the Private Sector Commission.

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UG searches for new VC …process could take months

T

he University of Guyana will be appointing a new official to fill the position of Vice Chancellor but it is a process that can take anywhere between six to nine months.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Monday, ProChancellor of the University, Retired Major-General Joseph Singh explained that this comes after Professor Ivelaw Griffith declined to renew his contract to serve another tenure in that capacity. He noted that the process to select a new VC will take some time.

Consequently, the UG administration is currently under command of a Transitional Management Committee, Chaired by Professor Michael Scott to oversee operations. Professor Paloma Mohamed has undertaken the role as Deputy Chair.

“The University indicated that the process of selecting a new Chancellor is in train and that process could take anything between six to nine months.

There is a Transitional Management Committee that is in place which is Chaired by Professor Michael Scott.

Ms Mohamed is the Deputy Chair,” Singh informed.

Griffith had come under grave criticism earlier in the year after the UG Unions stated that his performance was dismal among other accusations of financial mismanagement.

In February, a group of employees attached to the Turkeyen Campus picketed the Vice-Chancellery, calling for audits into the spending of the University as it was allegedly unable to properly account for its expenditures and more so, offer a salary increase to its staffers. This was despite the fact that tuition fees increased an-

Pro-Chancellor Joseph Singh

nually and there were additional fees for some services.

President of the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), Dr Jewel Thomas was quoted as saying that the University is undergoing financial constraints which

will potentially affect the University’s teaching and learning.

Thomas claimed that VC Griffith, upon taking up the post, demanded a new vehicle, an increase of allowance which is equivalent to a ministerial level, a credit card, an expense of the

University and bonuses. The Union President noted that the University of Guyana cannot afford the Vice Chancellor. The UGSSA President observed that the situation cannot and should not be allowed to continue.

In another encounter, the Union President told media operatives that the University has rejected their proposal for an increase in salaries, saying that the institution has a deficit.

Thomas accused the University of wasteful spending, explaining that they have been hosting talks and events to accommodate various speakers, some of whom the University does not even know of, and funds go towards their accommodation, food and travel.

“University has a public profile, we’ve been hosting talks, events, lectures, visiting people, some of whom the University doesn’t even know of their presence, we just know that they came and they went and they cost us money but we don’t know exactly what they did,” she noted.

At a meeting convened by the University Council, headed by the ProChancellor on April 15, a decision was taken to have the Vice Chancellor proceed on the routine end of contract leave.

This decision was made in view of the University’s financial situation, the absence of any circumstance that required the Vice Chancellor’s presence and it also respected long-standing procedures of the University with regard to no payment in lieu of leave for all staff. However, the ProChancellor had reportedly given directives for the Council to reverse its decision so that the Vice Chancellor could be paid in lieu of leave.

NEWS 23

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GPF hands out cash incentives to ranks for outstanding performances A

s the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its 180th anniversary celebration, some G$19.5 million was gifted to ranks who performed exceptionally so far in 2019.

The award ceremony was held at the Tactical Services Unit Drill Square, Eve Leary and saw 36 community policing groups being awarded, while 36 rural constables were specially recognised.

Special awards and recognition were given to several ranks and teams including those officers who apprehend the five men who conspired, robbed and murdered the Better Hope, East Coast Demerara money changer, Aaron Latchman, and his 18-year-old daughter Arianna Latchman.

For that award, the teams from the Major Crime Units of Divisions “A” and “C” received G$200,000.

Additionally, the ranks who shot and killed three bandits at Norton Street, Georgetown in May were awarded G$90,000 for their work.

Moreover, the ranks who confronted and killed

Commissioner of Police Leslie James (center) along with other Senior Officers of the Guyana Police Force and the awardees

three bandits at Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice were also awarded a sum of G$115,000.

Several other ranks, including those who arrested two Venezuelans who were found to be in possession of grenades, received monetary incentives of G$100,000 each.

Speaking at the ceremony, Top Cop Leslie James said ranks who uphold the good name of the Police Force by sticking to their commitment to serve and protect will

continue to be recognised and awarded.

“This event has long been a practice of the Force’s administration and is now a permanent feature on our calendar of anniversary activities. As Commissioner of Police, I am pleased to report that over the past 5 years, the Guyana Police Force has paid out nearly G$154 million and will today (Wednesday) be paying out some G$19.5 million with another portion to be paid a lit-

tle later this year. These awards and recognition are never in vain for the records will show that the awardees and receivers of incentives and commendation continue to excel and venture beyond the call of duty,” James stated.

Commissioner James noted that the recognition of hard work leads to more hard work, a factor which was taken into consideration when awarding the ranks.

“There is a positive

correlation between the growth of an object and the attention that it gets or it garners. This analogy is also true as regards actions and outcomes. Recognition and or reward for positive actions invariably leads to more positive actions,” the Police commissioner stated. He added that equally, mediocrity would not and should not attract action or more so reward.

“The reason for our attendance at this cere-

mony today is to reward positive action, we are here to recognise stellar performances of our policemen and women, those individuals that allow us to maintain that trust, those that proceed beyond the call of duty and those who clearly understand their roles, functions and responsibilities,” the Police Commissioner commended.

A total of 54 ranks were recognised and awarded on Wednesday.

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Guyana now boasts of most modern asphalt plant in the region

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uyana is now equipped with the “most modern” asphalt plant in the region, which costs in excess of G$488 million, but will aid in producing top quality material, primarily used for road construction.

The parts for the plant arrived in Guyana on Monday from Germany and are to be assembled soon at the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC), Garden of Eden branch, East Bank Demerara.

It is expected to reduce costs in the construction of asphalt concrete roads in the near future.

General Manager of the DHBC Rawlston Adams explained more in a brief telephone interview with this publication on Tuesday. According to him, “It will enable us to produce much more asphalt at a better quality than we are producing right now, because the plant that we are using is “mix” plant; this plant is a patch mix plant at a 160 tonnes per hour”.

Once assembled, this plant

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; General Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation, Rawlston Adams and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Kenneth Jordan. (DPI photo)

will be the largest in the country and most modern in the region. With these qualities, the plant will be able to not only supply local needs, but international ones as well.

In a statement, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) said that the design for the in-

stallation of the plant and overall construction will go out to tender shortly. Furthermore, it informed that the full installation of the asphalt structure should be completed by the end of September.

During a visit to the Demerara Shipping Wharf

on Monday, Subject Minister David Patterson inspected the parts of the plant where he explained that the decision to purchase a new plant was made since 2016. According to him, it will allow the Ministry to do “better and bigger things”.

The new asphalt plant was procured through public tender during 2018 by the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation, signalling an increase in operations and growth in demand.

The new asphalt plant will have the power and capability to produce approximately 160 tonnes of asphalt per hour – almost four times faster than the current asphalt plant.

Initially, the plant was expected to be in Guyana by February.

As an infrastructural investment, this plant is expected to provide efficiency in the continuity of supply of materials to the Ministry in the execution of road construction and rehabilitation, without compromising quality or price, as the DHBC remains the cheapest asphalt concrete-producing company in Guyana.

Further, as the product of a top brand worldwide, the new plant is expected to meet all required environmental standards regarding air and noise emissions.

Antigua Government not willing to pay price Barbados wants for its LIAT shares P rime Minister Gaston Browne has disclosed that

the US$44 million price Barbados was asking for its LIAT shares was

too steep, insisting that while his government wanted a bigger stake

in the regional airline, it had no intention of “giving away money”.

Negotiating teams from both countries recently met in Barbados to begin talks on Antigua securing the majority of the 49.4 per cent shareholding that Bridgetown currently has in the carrier. Neither team made any official statement after the discussions, although media reports in Barbados indicated that talks had broken down.

But speaking on his radio station, Browne disclosed that Barbados put a US$44 million price tag on the shares.

“I understand mathematics and I understand percentages, and I also understand value for money. So if we were to settle at US$44 million, that would be a steal for Barbados, and we are not in the process of giving away money. We are in the process of creating value and to get fair value for the people of Antigua and Barbuda, so as far as I am concerned – and I have said this to the Prime Minister of Barbados because she knows my thinking – discussions cannot start at US$44 million. She knows my position and has since come down,” he said.

Antigua had said that it would seek to acquire Barbados’ LIAT shares through a take-

Antigua Prime Minister Gaston Browne

over of the country’s liability to the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), from which monies had been borrowed to purchase planes. Browne had said the aim was to finance keeping the three planes owned by the CDB, since Barbados was prepared to sell them.

The Antiguan Prime Minister therefore expressed his disappointment that the government’s negotiating team, comprised of Lennox Weston, Sir Robin Yearwood and a representative from the Ministry of Finance, had even considered accepting the Barbados US$44 million proposal.

“We oppose the sale of the planes to pay off the debt so rather than selling the planes to a third party, Antigua

and Barbuda said it would step in and assume Barbados’ shares associated with the acquisition of the planes.

That’s a simple matter….Unfortunately, my team got involved in some kind of sophisticated negotiations which would have resulted in a settlement of US$44 million. I don’t understand that kind of maths,” he said.

Antigua and Barbuda currently has 34 per cent shareholding in LIAT. The other major shareholding governments are St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica and Grenada.

The remaining shareholders are made up of private companies, other Caribbean governments and employees.

(Caribbean360.com)

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Guyana and Japan looking to further strengthen bilateral cooperation

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uyana and Japan are looking to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in the area of energy.

This was highlighted on Wednesday morning when President David Granger accredited a new non-resident Japanese Ambassador to Guyana.

Ambassador Tatsuo Hirayama handed over his letters of credence to the Guyanese Head of State at the Ministry of the Presidency.

The Japanese diplomat, in brief remarks, reflected on the long bilateral relationship and cooperation between the two countries in various areas, especially energy.

“Just last year, a grant agreement valued US$15.5 million was signed between Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Guyana for the project for the “Introduction of Renewable Energy and Improvement of Power System” in Guyana, with the objective of introducing renewable energy to Georgetown and in-

President David Granger greeting Japanese Ambassador Tatsuo Hirayama at the Ministry of the Presidency on Wednesday

cluding the power supply system in the city,” Ambassador Hirayama stated.

M e a n w h i l e , President Granger lauded the good bilateral relations the two countries have maintained since establishing diplomat-

ic ties in June 1967. He went on to note too that the Japan-funded energy project was consistent with Guyana’s transition to a ‘Green State’, which would see increased emphasis on the protection of the environment, the preservation of the biodi-

versity, the promotion of renewable energy generation, and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation.

“The generation of renewable energy, consequently, is among our top priorities as we move

towards achieving our goal of becoming a green state. As you pointed out, Guyana and Japan signed, in June 2018, a Grant Agreement for The Introduction of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficient Power System. This project is consistent with our country’s Green State Development Strategy,” the President noted.

In June last year, Guyana and Japan signed the financial and technical cooperation agreement for the procurement and installation of energy-saving street lights as well as the enhancement of substation equipment and distribution lines in Georgetown.

The project will also see the installation of a PV system and energy management system at the Caribbean Community (Caricom) H e a d q u a r t e r s , Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

At the time, Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Albert Gordon had told the me-

dia that the new system would help the company to reduce the frequent outages.

“Our top priority as we said is to reduce the number of outages and this particular project will help in terms of improving reliability and losses, also improving voltage levels. But it is part of a set of projects we are implementing,” Gordon had said.

By 2023, transmission loss could be reduced to about 1,600,000 kilowatts/year through the provision of substation equipment and distribution lines.

Then Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge commended the timeliness of the contribution

by Japan and said it accorded well with the Government’s development trajectory.

During the June 2018 signing ceremony, Japan also donated 4716 LED street lamps from a total of 10,865 to the Public Infrastructure Ministry worth some US$1.3 million.

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By Leah Hernandez

T

he famous American bodybuilder, actor and artist, Kai Greene once said, “In the mind of every artist there is a masterpiece”. Those words are the definition of how truly phenomenal June Ann-Henry is.

This 68-year-old mother of four has been an artist for over half of a century and is showing no signs of

quitting anytime soon. The multitalented Henry is one to watch as she possesses unique skills not only in artistry but in singing, voice-training and teaching, but more so she dedicates most of her time teaching young children and hosting workshops to share her artistic talent.

“My art is not just about the painting I do, I’m also a singer, songwriter, voice trainer. It’s across the board because I’m multi-talented. I’m always into something else….I believe that I am doing good work, which as you can see in my work that I try my best matter of fact everything I do. I try to do it excellent” she asserted.

The Sunday Times Magazine was fortunate enough to learn more about the exciting experiences

encountered by this art professional, during an evidently interesting conversation at her home in the city.

Like most talented individuals, this stalwart captured her motivation together with passion from those dearest to her and from a tender age

it was evident that Henry’s talent was undeniable.

“Since I was a child I like to do art.

I remember even prophesying in my art. I did a picture with a husband and a wife and I put my real husband name in it and I was a child then… .I was just about five-years-old then and that’s my earliest recollection of my art. I was also influenced by my father as he liked to draw birds and I was encouraged by my uncle who bought me paints and so on.

He was always interested in me becoming an artist” a jovial Henry explained.

It is wise to accept challenges so that one can feel the exhilaration of victory because it is only through resolution and determination victory is gained. Being a perfect example of the readiness to accept challenges, Henry is always prepared to make the most out of the very least.

“Basic challenge is money because the paints are very expensive and the canvases are very expensive and people don’t want to pay for it.

They want the work but they don’t want to pay for it. Basic challenges besides money are to manoeuvre what little that you have to in order to make it work” the devoted artist related.

Embracing and showing off the creativeness of the beautifully painted pictures in the room, the Sunday

Times Magazine asked the visibly enthusiastic senior of the inspiration behind each work of art completed, and in a smooth voice, she responded saying, “Sometimes I have a dream, other times I get inspiration from nature…I like to draw because I feel that different groups have different concepts of ideas to share with the world and if artists don’t come forth and share with the world, you imagine what the world would be like without artists?”

The rest of the world was also afforded the opportunity to view the creations done by Henry whilst on missionary trips to various destinations. Countries such as Brazil,

Suriname, the United States of America and Canada are among those that have these radiant art pieces of our very own local artist, on their shores.

Being very proud of her work and accomplishments at home and abroad, Henry encourages other local

talented persons to stop having less confidence in themselves and pursue whatever dream it is until it becomes a reality.

“I would say to that person, pursue it! It’s just as if you take one step, take baby steps. Anything you wanna do you, take a little baby step and then you know you can go further and further until you reach wherever you want to be” Henry positively said.

This committed member of the Guyana Women Artist Association is currently focused on her voice training classes at the Carnegie School of Economics but more importantly her over-successful artistry career.

This industrious woman seeks to share with the world her inspiration and concept of what an artist truly is by use of her colours and paintbrush on each canvas. Her words are “I am art and art is me, art is my life”.

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Violating the Constitution…

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…is PNC’s norm

lot of people are all het up about the way Granger’s shredding the Constitution into confetti. Not your Eyewitness. He’s said it before, but it looks like he’ll have to say it again: to you and the rest of folks who desire to live a civilised existence, the Constitution may be a sacred document – a social contract – but to the PNC, it is just a piece of paper.

Back in the day when the PPP was preparing for independence which the British had promised would be after the 1961 elections, the former were all up in arms about the Constitution the British would foist on them. Fears of “neo-colonialism” resonated from Robb Street and they had their brilliant young AG, Fenton Ramsahoye, craft a whole new constitution which they were going to propose to the departing Brits. Burnham, who in the meantime had left the PPP, formed the PNC and was plotting with the Brits to stage a “legal” PR coup to overthrow the PPP, announced that he didn’t give a hoot about what constitution the Brits gave him – once he was in power, he’d be able to do whatever the hell he wanted to do!!

And so said; so done!! As soon as he was in fact parachuted into office, Burnham rounded up all the PPP top guns and activists and locked them up at Sibley Hall at Mazaruni Prison! Was that in accordance with the Constitution he’d received from the Brits??

Of course, it wasn’t!! But Burnham declared that the PPP fellas were “terrorists”, plotting to bring down the Government by force!! While walking about the country on his “meet-the-people” tour spouting platitudes of “Peace, Not Conflict”, he blithely extended the Special Detention Orders in force during the racial riots he’d facilitated to bring down the PPP!!

This set the mould for the PNC in relation with Constitutions and the rule of law, which undergirds it and it explains Granger’s cynical attitude as the latest PNC leader, when it comes to obeying the letter much less the spirit of the Constitution. A la Burnham, he runs around unctuously spouting platitudes about the Constitution being “sacrosanct” and yet feigns ignorance about that document’s specific instruction to hold elections 3 months after a successful NCM!!

Like the feint of “terrorism” with which Burnham subverted the Constitution, Granger is analogously using the ploy of “credible” elections – which he orchestrated with his illegal, unilaterally-appointed GECOM Chair. So what next?? Don’t expect Granger to go quietly into the night – which an election will guarantee.

C’mon Diaspora…petition those Congressmen!!

C’mon locals, flood the streets.

Remember it was a call from the White House, elicited by President Carter, that threw out Hoyte!!

…to pick a GECOM Chair

As your Eyewitness is diligently pecking away at his keyboard on this piece, the Opposition Leader’s just strolling into the now green-painted Presidential Compound – which he’d occupied for 12 years – to meet Granger on the selection on the next GECOM Chair. Let’s not describe how Granger from the very beginning wanted to have his own man at the helm – the more important question is WHY he wanted that!!

What was so special about Patterson that made him qualified – apart from actually being a judge, which Granger initially insisted was the only qualification necessary? Was he more conversant about bureaucratic matters dealing with fractious factions than, say, Lawrence Latchmansingh, formerly of the UNDP? Of course not!! Was he more familiar with electoral matters than Major General Joe Singh?

Of course not!! Joe Singh had actually served as a GECOM Chair – WITH DISTINCTION!!

What Patterson had was loyalty to the PNC!! And this was necessary for fiddling with the elections to ensure they remain in office!!

…but also personal beef

Some observers have wondered why Granger dissed his fellow Armed Forces colleague Major General Joe Singh for the GECOM Chair. That goes back to President Hoyte passing over the desk-bound Granger for the field-oriented Singh to head the Armed Forces in 1990!!

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…“Braff” tells his story of hard work, determination and success

By Lakhram Bhagirat

O

ne thing that is guaranteed in life is the fact that at some point, there is going to be struggles, but how we deal with those struggles is what truly defines us as individuals. The struggles we encounter should not be what defines us, rather we should use those struggles to achieve our end goals.

On the paved road, there is always going to be bumps but when we fall, we should get back up, dust off and continue. For 47 years, Rambarran “Braff” Persaud has been constantly dusting himself off and has no plans of going down without a battle.

Persaud’s story is one that resonates with many Guyanese, mostly in the poverty-stricken areas, since they know the battle to survive every day. When life

handed him the short end of the stick, Persaud knew he needed to forge ahead in order to “become something”.

Born in deep poverty to a family that depended on the water for their living, from an early age Persaud knew the value of hard work.

He knew that life would be different from that of many others. As a child, he had no idea what the inside of a school looked like but he knew the ins and outs of being a fisherman.

“Me father didn’t have a choice but to carry we. He never try to put we somewhere else but he always say that

we must treat the workers nice because fisher wuk nah easy,” he said.

At the tender age of 9, when most people are busy playing with their friends and going to school, Persaud would get up early and go with his father onto the Atlantic Ocean as he sought to learn the workings of becoming a fisherman. After his father felt that he had accumulated enough knowledge, Persaud was given his own boat along with his

brother and they would go out on their own.

At that time, the Unity, Mahaica native would just go close to shore and fish with his brother. They would bring in their catch and prepare for the next day.

“We used to go out on the beach corner. Abay never go to school. Long time the wuk nah been hard because you used to get plenty fish and you used to get the money. Now it [the work] is better but the fish get hard. It [the fish] is not so plenty and there is plenty boat and you nah get the price fuh the fish,” he said.

From his childhood

days at sea, Persaud remembers that there were times when the rain would soak them, the sun would bake them, and their boat would go down in the water but they braved it all. He said back then he was never afforded the opportunity to own or be given a cloak to shelter from the rain or sun, rather he would use cloth seine as protection and wrap up in it.

The hardships, according to him, have shaped him and drives him to achieve a better standard of living. Working at an early age and being forced to grow up meant that Persaud’s life was fasttracked. In 1988, he met and eloped with Anita Jairam.

Their life of struggling entered a new dimension but for him, the support system was there and ever present.

Out of their union came seven children and as his family grew, Persaud knew that life needed to be different for his four daughters and three sons. He knew that the opportunities that he failed to get needed to be presented to his children.

Education needed to play an integral role in their development.

He began to tread a different path and ensured that at no time would he take his children out of school to join the family fishing business. While he would take care of the home and send his children to school, his wife stood by

Rambarran "Braff" Persaud repairing his seine

his side and they persevered. They saved whatever they could, whenever they could and about five years ago, it all became worth it.

After years of working for one of his sisters who owns a boat, Persaud was able to acquire his own.

“Lil bit, lil bit we save up and first me buy me engine and then some seine and then me buy me boat. Life is nice now. Me nah regret because me wuk and get me own boat and thing.

Before then, me used to wuk meh sister boat.”

Over the years that he has been a fisherman,

Persaud said that he has never had any major incident or been attacked while on the water. He lamented that piracy is mostly a concern for persons in Region Six but added that they are also aware and always alerted.

“Don’t start going to sea young because it hard.

Long time you nah even get a cloak or a piece ah plastic and you got to be in the rain and rain and sun ah beat you.

Me father always tell me that you must treat yuh workers nice because fisher wuk nah easy so nah invest yuh money in

something you nah know nothing about,” he advised.

With two sons still in school, Persaud continues to push to further improve their lives.

He said that he is sure that the fishing industry is not for his children since he once took his older son out to sea but seasickness got the best of him and he never went back.

Whenever he is not out in the ocean, you can find Persaud and his workers at the Mahaicony Stelling repairing their seines before they prepare to go back out.

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Political… …a father tells harrowing tale of son being stranded at sea

By Lakhram Bhagirat

M

any times when your parents restrict you from doing something, it means that there is intuition and for some reason, we as children, always rebel. We accuse them of limiting our opportunities to explore the world, to learn and discover and in the end, we rebel.

Sometimes the rebellion pays off and we are exposed to amazing opportunities and sometimes it all goes haywire and we think “I should have listened to mommy/daddy”.

That may have crossed the mind of 18-year-old Adesh Latchman several times while he was drifting with the tide in the Atlantic Ocean for those five days.

Latchman along with his cousins Sahadeo Ramkishun, 19; Anand Sookram, 18; and friend, Manmohan Indar, 19, came to the fore over a week ago when news broke that they were stranded in the Atlantic Ocean and had been drifting for over five days.

The quartet left their Dundee Dam, Mahaicony home sometime around 10:00h on Tuesday, June 25, for the Abary koker. When they got there, they loaded fishing boat “Angela 3” and left for the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean to fish.

They were scheduled to return the following day with their catch.

Everything went smoothly the first day and night into their trip but on the day they were to return home, tragedy struck. Of the four boys, none have the technical knowledge to deal with their boat engine so when they were preparing to head home and the engine conked out, they had no idea what to do. They tried restarting it several times but the 15-year-old engine refused to buckle.

For Adesh, it was the first time that he went out to the ocean to fish and following that experience, he said it is going to be his last.

Adesh’s father, Bharat Latchman, was not a fan of the idea of his 18-yearold son going to sea because he knows how hard it is. The elder Latchman once owned a fishing boat and would have been through the experience of becoming a fisherman and

that was the life he had not wanted for his son.

So on that fateful Tuesday when his son came to him and asked to go out to sea, he insisted on him not going. However, his nephews and his son began begging him to persuade his approval and finally, he relented. Permission was granted and the foursome left.

After his son did not return on Wednesday, the family started to feel uneasy. That uneasiness was further compounded with the lack of substantial information as to the whereabouts of the young men.

They were then informed that the vessel encountered difficulties and that they are drifting out in the open waters.

“The family there like them ain’t take it serious and when them [the boys] call back again, it was different area and then them start look. We start fuh search and ask fisherman and so. One Enmore fisherman say that them see a boat at deep ocean and it was around Chateau Margot side and we went and take a boat and went out to search but we didn’t find them. That was the Saturday,” the father related.

The father said he had never encountered such fear because the entire family thought that they were going to lose their son. Adesh is his eldest child and only son and it was especially hard on his mother, who had stopped eating.

She was so worried that she began to feel unwell. She refused to eat because she was sure that her son was out there starving. It was quite sickening for her and when

the family received a call around 20:00h that Saturday night, after their search had failed, they were on the edge. They were overcome with joy because they thought that they were going to Mahaicony Stelling to meet their baby boy but life dealt them its final blow before they were granted the chance to experience full joy.

When they arrived at the Mahaicony Stelling, they were shattered to see one of the four boys and that boy was not theirs.

Questions started to fire like they were in a battle and they were told that their baby was still out there drifting and would be rescued until the following day.

Adesh’s mother, Finey (only name given), said that she could not sleep that night. She was restless and her hair kept breaking over and over again. She prayed all night for the sun to rise and so that the rescue mission could kick in gear.

At the crack of dawn, the family got up and the rescue mission started.

“When we see he we run and scramble he and start cry. He tell abay that them just sit down in the boat and that the lil food them carry was finished and them got dry macaroni and they eat that salt water. He say ‘if two days more been pass then daddy abay nah woulda mek it’. Them been already confused because one of the boy them been throw away the radio and some oil and so because nobody was coming.

Them been can’t make it. When he come back, he was trembling and all he eye gone in and he was suffering,” the elder Latchman said.

The family got him treated at the hospital and he was so traumatised that he needed medication to be able to rest. After that experience, the young man expressly stated that the adventures on the open waters are not for him.

T

…opportunists

he consequential orders of the CCJ are serving like inkblots in Rorschach Tests to reveal the true nature of some characters, who’d like us to believe they have “open” minds on matters political.

There’s this WPA fella who insists that after the CCJ defined the PNC-led Government as a “Caretaker”, they can carry on smartly with whatever they were doing (like looting the State coffers?!) but putting new elections on the top of their agenda – presumably with the State funding their campaign!!

And this fella’s supposed to be moulding impressionable young minds in Arizona!! But maybe he’s more au fait with the situation in the US? However, he betrays his ignorance of the American political system when he asserted, “a caretaker government is no different from a lame-duck government”. There couldn’t be two things more different from each other than a “caretaker government” and a “lame-duck government”, the latter being a unique US concept.

A “lame-duck” politician is an elected official who isn’t seeking re-election and is often used to describe US Presidents in their second and final terms in the White House. They’re usually seen as ineffectual. The term can also be used to describe Administrations of US Presidents who’ve lost the elections in November, but continue in office until a new President’s inaugurated the following January. But here, there’s legislation on the books – the Presidential Transition Acts – which are focused on getting the teams of the new President into their new roles. Most pertinently, the outgoing President doesn’t take any action that would saddle the new Administration with any new policy initiative. In other words, they work as a “caretaker” administration.

A “caretaker government”, on the other hand, is a fixture in the parliamentary democratic system, and is most frequently one where elections have been scheduled, the Assembly stands dissolved but they just have to hold the fort until the elections are over and a new government is elected!! More infrequently, a government can fall upon the passage of a “noconfidence motion” in the Parliament and elections have to be called pronto – in the case of Guyana, three months. The incumbent Government becomes a “Caretaker government”.

In parliamentary democracies like Guyana, “Caretaker Conventions” – detailing the parameters of the incumbent Government for the duration, have been explicitly articulated. According to the Canadian version, such “a government should restrict itself – in matters of policy, expenditure and appointments – to activity that is: routine, or non-controversial, or urgent and in the public interest, or reversible by a new government without undue cost or disruption, or agreed to by Opposition parties (in those cases where consultation is appropriate).”

Does that sound like “keep on keeping on”?? Gwan da side!!

…prostitutes

One has to understand the reality of the handful of WPA survivors who’ve lived off the political capital paid for with the blood of Walter Rodney, but now’s exhausted. How else can they get their offspring and relatives a piece of the Guyana giveaway being run by the PNC? The situation of the AFC, however, is different. They went into the coalition with the PNC with eyes wide open and articulated what they’d do to move the politics of Guyana into a more positive direction.

At all times, they knew that in coalition governments – especially ones holding power by small majorities –the smaller parties have absolute make or break power on the margins with their votes. It’s like jiujitsu!! Just look at how the minuscule Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland was able to force the Tories of Theresa May to torpedo Brexit because of their demands!!

But being political prostitutes, the leaders of the AFC – Ramjattan and Trotman (Trotman was always PNC) – sold out for filthy lucre.

And now are fighting for the “best bootlicker” title!!

…has-beens

One can now appreciate the resentment, envy, and anger of fellas like Eric Phillips against the PPP. It had nothing to do with the claimed “marginalization” of their constituency.

And everything to do with self-enrichment!!

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…Savitri Ramkishun tells the story of her sons’ determination to be fishermen them because was two of two of them. Them still say them going back to work. Them tell them daddy that ‘abeh ah fisherman pickney done’ and abay gon go wuk because that is the wuk abay know.”

“Them say that them nah friken. Them ah go since them reach 14 year. Me thankful them reach home safe. Them had food before and them try with it but after that them say them live on salt water and melt ice fuh drink.

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

hey were on the Atlantic Ocean drifting for five days and had nothing to eat. Their sink was being baked in the sun. They were dehydrated and forced to drink the salted sea water.

They had no food but made meals of dried, uncooked macaroni and sun-baked fish.

They called and waved to several passing boats in the open water but no one came to their rescue.

They had never experienced such hardship since they are merely teenagers.

They persevered and tried not to give in as their faith in being rescued dwindled. They were four boys no older than 19 years old. They were confused and had no idea what their next move would be or if they would ever see their families again.

But help came on the fourth day but it meant that they would have to be separated. Only one could have gone to shore while the other three would be left behind and made to spend another night in the open sea. However, they knew help would come sooner rather than later and they now had bread and water to fill their sick and empty stomachs.

After such an experience, one would try to stay as far as possible from the sea but that is not the case for brothers Shadeo Ramkishun and Anand Sookram. Being stranded at sea and drifting for days with their cousin, Adesh Latchman, and friend, Manmohan Indar, only strengthened the brothers’ resolve that they are born “fishermen”.

Ramkishun, 19; Sookram, 18; Indar, 19; and Latchman, 18, left their Dundee Dam, Mahaicony home sometime around 10:00h on Tuesday, June 25, for the Abary koker. When they got there, they loaded fishing boat “Angela 3” and left for the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It was not the first time the brothers would be doing that since it was their means of income but it was the first time they would be going out with their cousin and friend.

They were scheduled to return the following day with their catch. Everything went smoothly the first day and night into their trip but on the day they were to return home, tragedy struck. Of the four boys, none have the technical knowledge to deal with their boat engine so when they were preparing to head home and the engine conked out, they had no idea what to do.

They tried restarting it several times but the 15-year-old engine refused to buckle.

The four teenagers just resigned after many failed attempts. They then began to look for help but help was nowhere to be seen.

Ramkishun and Sookram’s

in the s u n and them eat it.

T h e m feel very bad that all them

Sahadeo Ramkishun

Savitri with her two sons

mother, Savitri, told Sunday Times Magazine that it was a difficult time for the family after they did not hear from the boys. However, she said that she was confident that her sons would be okay since “dem ah fisherman pickney”.

The mother said her boys are not chained to the incident, rather it only strengthened their resolve since “fishing wuk ah all dem know”.

The brothers both dropped out of school when they reached fourteen years old and coming from a long line of fishermen only meant that they would join the industry. They began going to the Abary koker with their father, who would teach them what they needed to know and when they felt that they had the skillset and knowledge to venture out on their own, they took the “Angela 3” and started going out to sea by themselves.

They would usually go out and spend two days and one night in the ocean and come back and sell their catch.

When they did not return that Wednesday, Savitri said she was not really worried about them because she thought they were staying a bit longer so it was business as usual for her. However, when Thursday came and there was no word or any sign of her boys and their boat, worry started to seep in.

“Thursday pass and then my husband say you know what, something happen like with them boys this because he hear like one boat nah come in. Me tell me husband say go and see say if the bai them deh ah work and he say no some boat tell he that them bai bruckdown and deh ah sea.

Friday we come together and we say where them gone and then me son Bobo (Sahadeo) call me and say that abay deh Mahaica to Mahaicony and abay deh half way. Abay bruck down with the engine and can’t start it back.”

It was then that the family kicked into search mode and began looking for the boys, who related that they were drifting between Mahaica and Mahaicony.

Help came for the boys on Saturday when a smaller boat came to their rescue. However, the smaller boat could only accommodate one of them and Sahadeo jumped at the opportunity to get help for the crew. He was brought to the Mahaicony Stelling that afternoon and immediately called his parents, asking that his father come to their rescue.

It was until later that night that his father ventured to the stelling to collect him and the following day he took them to the spot where the others were and they were all rescued.

Fuh deh six days out ah sea deh and struggling. Them had to drink salt water to survive.

It was hard fuh dem and all the mothers and father pray for them.

Me thankful for that.

When the thing come shocking to me and me start to feel that me gon lose me son

Anand Sookram

Them had to face it. They say them take the fish and bake it

boat man ah pass them and although them ah wave, people don’t want to help. Them say that them start to cry and beg God because them say it was hard. When night ah step in them ah pray.”

The family has since acquired another engine and Sahadeo went back out to sea on Sunday while Anand went out on Monday.

They are determined to not let that incident define their career choice but it makes for a good story for them to tell.

The boys do not see themselves doing anything else and they have their parents’ blessings to continue this venture.

They are forging ahead at full steam.

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AmCham Guyana says companies must be held accountable for Anti-national… damage to environment

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T

A section of the gathering during the conference

he need for companies to make an effort to reduce their carbon footprint, observe health and safety policies, and be held accountable by the countries they operate in was on Wednesday emphasised by Guyana’s American Chamber (AmCham), President Zulficar Ally.

Ally was at the time speaking during a conference at the Marriott Hotel, organised to discuss health and safety in the Private Sector. According to Ally, companies will be expected to lift their standards when it comes to health and safety and they should be held accountable for that.

“Gone are the days when companies can operate with reckless disregard for the environment and its inhabitants. Compassion is the single quality that defines us as humane. And it is now being asked of us, that whether it’s birds or fishes or trees, the right to life is not one that (only) we as human beings are endowed and entitled. And it is not enough to perform grand gestures of show if the impact is minimal,” he said.

He stressed the need for companies to not only limit the effects their operations can have, but also make an effort to reverse the damage. Besides the environmental damage, Ally noted the effect

changing economic dynamics in Guyana, companies that want to benefit must lift their standards in these areas. At present, AmCham Guyana is hosting a health, safety, security and environment conference at the Marriott Hotel.

The one-day event, held under the theme “preparing for sustainable development”, featured an appearance from Exxon Guyana’s Production Manager Mike Ryan.

The Manager endeavoured to give an account of his company’s health and safety policies, stressing that ExxonMobil puts the safety of its workers above business and profits.

Adequate systems

Guyana’s American Chamber (AmCham) President, Zulficar Ally

irresponsible operations can have on a business’s reputation.

“Not only will they lost customers and supporters, but their reputations stand to be irreversibly destroyed by the damage that they leave behind. We should all consider this seriously. A robust environmental programme must not only complement a business mandate, but must remain central to it,” he added.

Ally also noted that with the

The need for Guyana to get adequate systems in place to regulate the oil and gas sector was also emphasised at the event, this time by AMCHAM’s Trinidad and Tobago chapter.

Making these pronouncements was Trinidadian AMCHAM President Patricia Ghany. She warned about the effects of oil spills and other dangers of the sector when appropriate regulations and regulators were not set up. Ghany’s warnings, however, also included an offer of assistance from her organisation to its local counterparts.

“There are many changes to come that will transform business and investment. With 23 years of experience and leadership in health and safety, AmCham T&T is ready to assist should the need arrise. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us,” she said.

Guyana’s state of readiness is a sore issue, considering the fact that first oil is next year and only a single piece of legislation related to the sector has been passed.

This legislation is the Natural Resources Fund Bill, which was signed into law by President David Granger earlier this year.

The bill to create a Petroleum Commission is yet to pass in the House, while a national oil spill strategy and local content policy are still works in progress.

…President

our Eyewitness must confess that whatever regard he had for the now officially “caretaker President” David Granger has been dissipated with his “address to the nation” following the CCJ’s consequential orders. Previously, I’d suggested that Granger might be suffering from “dogmatic subjectivism” – the mental defect in some folks who assume that whatever they believe has to be the “TRUTH”, regardless of contrary FACTS that are presented to them.

They tend to carry on with righteous fervour in defending their positions and are invariably dismissive of other views. Remember when caretaker Granger dismissed Justice George’s judgement that a nominee for the GECOM Chairmanship didn’t have to be a judge and it was her “perception”? And he was entitled to his? But your Eyewitness is now convinced that Granger is callously willing to lie, cheat, or steal to remain as the President of Guyana – and he fully well knowingly crafts his utterances toward that end.

Take his outright lie about the Opposition Leader resubmitting some of the names from his previous 3 lists of nominees for the GECOM Chair: “It is unfortunate that, despite the meetings between the two sides, the Leader of the Opposition rejected the idea of acting in a consensual manner. He chose to put forward candidates for the post who have been rejected previously”. Imagine he’d assert this when he’s on record (the tapes are circulating on the blogsphere!!) in front of the media saying that he’d agreed to have those named resubmitted!!

But it is Granger’s traducing of our Constitution – even as he unctuously bleats “the Constitution of Guyana is sacrosanct and supreme” – that’s beyond the pale and for which all right-thinking Guyanese must denounce him for being anti-national. For Granger to now become a tag team with GECOM to call for “credible elections” is merely to circumvent the workings of the Constitution!! GECOM is supposed to always be ready for elections because the Constitution allows elections after dissolutions and after NCMs!! GECOM can’t hold the Constitution to ransom!!

The CCJ went beyond the call of duty to be circumspect in handing out their orders in recognition of the co-equal status of the other branches of Government – especially the Executive. So rather than ordering a specific date for elections – when the Constitution’s Art 106 is absolutely clear that this date must be THREE MONTHS after the passage of the NCM – they simply said: “The Court must assume that these bodies and personages will exercise their responsibilities with integrity and in keeping with the unambiguous provisions of the Constitution bearing in mind that the No-Confidence Motion was validly passed as long ago as 21 December 2018”.

But obviously “integrity” is an unknown quality for Granger!!

…President must be fought

Old people say we don’t need flambeau to show us what’s clear in bright daylight! And it’s as clear as day that Granger and his PNC are up to no good on their obstreperous delaying of elections. At a minimum, we’ve seen they’re using the extra time to dole out the national patrimony to their cronies and families. At the maximum, they surely need the time to put Plan B in place to rig the elections in their favour.

Now that the CCJ’s spoken authoritatively, the GECOM ploy must be exposed for what it is – a ploy to delay elections. The GECOM Legal Council has declared that H-t-H registration isn’t necessary.

Furthermore, a report from a UNDP team declared, “It is the view of the Mission that there is no certainty that a new voters’ list will have more credibility than the current list”.

Your Eyewitness feels that Civil Society – in addition to all the Opposition parties— should imitate what the PCD did in the 1980’s.

This time for elections within 3 months!!

…defeat

Let us remember Churchill’s words at this time: “We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills, we shall never surrender!!

Elections by Sept 18!!

NEWS 37

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

US envoy urges all stakeholders to play their role in ensuring Guyana is positioned for success T

he governments of Guyana and the United States of America (USA) have once again pledged their commitment to support and cooperate, as they aim to strengthen bilateral agreements with each other.

This message was conveyed during a reception at the US Ambassador’s residence last Friday evening to celebrate the country’s 243rd Independence Anniversary.

President David Granger – whose Administration is now a caretaker Government following the Caribbean Court of Justice’s ruling that it was toppled after the successful passage of a No-Confidence Motion on December 21, 2018 – who delivered remarks at the event, recognised that the two countries have shared excellent relations since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties back in 1966.

“Our countries have cultivated a strong, stable and sound relationship over the past 53 years. Guyanese are bound by history, kinship and friendship to the USA, the largest economy and the thirdlargest country in the world. Guyana and the USA have founded their friendship on the principles of mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, cooperation for mutual benefit, respect for international law and treaties and the maintenance of international peace and security” the President said.

On that note, the Head of State highlighted the numerous cooperation programmes and investments made by the United States, which have contributed to the country’s national development and social change. In addition, the

US Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch in conversation with President of the Georgetown Chamber of Industry and Commerce Nicolas Boyer at a recent event hosted by the Chamber.

President underscored that Guyana looks forward to continued cooperation with the country as it is a significant trade and investment partner.

Meanwhile, US

Murder of Lethem businessman

Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch pledged her country’s continued support and cooperation in Guyana’s future development.

“We continue to col-

laborate with Guyana in preparation for this new days; partnering on the security front to make Guyana safer and more secure; partnering on the governance front to im-

prove transparency and accountability and to reduce corruption; partnering on the economic front to increase trade and US investments in Guyana.

Our partnership will continue to thrive and be successful with strong US and Guyanese leadership,” she explained.

The Ambassador also used the opportunity to urge all of the country’s leaders to play their role in ensuring that Guyana is positioned for success.

“I urge all Guyanese, Government officials, leaders and members of the Opposition, civil society and youth to help your country on its journey to success,” Lynch asserted.

The event was attended by both members of the now caretaker Government and the Opposition – People’s Progressive Party – along with members of the diplomatic community and civil society.

Hotelier gets High Court bail, alleged accomplice remains in confinement

J

Still on remand: Chatterpaul Singh

ust one day after being further remanded to prison on an indictable charge, 57-year-old Mark Grimmond, the owner of Rockies Hotel, was granted bail by the Demerara High Court.

His attorney, Bernard Da Silva was successful in a bail application at the court last week.

Grimmond was released on G$500,000 bail, which was granted by Justice Navindra Singh, however, his alleged “hit man” Chatterpaul Singh remains on remand for the allegations they jointly faced.

The matter is currently being dealt with at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and

Bailed: Mark Grimmond

the trial is set to commence on July 24, 2019, which was announced

by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan last Thursday when the case was called.

When the duo reappeared before the Chief Magistrate on the last occasion, attorneys for Grimmond, Da Silva and Mark Waldron, made new bail applications on behalf of their client but was again unsuccessful due to lack of special reasons presented.

Meanwhile, Singh, who was unrepresented, was also further remanded.

Grimmond of Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), and his co-accused, Singh, of Cummingsburg,

Georgetown, were slapped with a joint charge alleging that they both conspired with each other and persons unknown to kill Dwayne Grant, a businessman of Lethem, Region Nine.

Police reports indicate that Grant received information that the accused were plotting to kill him.

After reporting the matter, Police arrested Singh, who was found with a firearm in his possession. After intense questioning, Singh reportedly confessed to the police that he was contracted by the hotelier to carry out the execution.

Grimmond was then subsequently apprehended and placed in custody.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Tough times for Skeldon residents due to estate closure

A frustrated resident speaks to Guyana Times International

T

he Skeldon Sugar Estate has been the main source of income in the Upper Corentyne area but since its closure in 2017, the livelihoods of

the sacked workers and their families have fallen apart.

A recent visit to Skeldon proved that families are still trying to make ends meet as

they shared their sentiments on the effect the closure has had on them.

A market vendor disclosed that she has not made a profit from her vegetables because people in the area cannot afford to purchase those items.

“All my customers are out of a job, because of the closure of the Skeldon Estate and my products go to waste”, the vendor explained.

She added that the fishermen are keeping the area alive but a lot of people remain unemployed.

A known businessman of the Skeldon area also expressed similar sentiments. “This es-

The closed sugar estate

tate has affected everyone, it is not easy to have employees on your payroll when your profit is so little, it is only me and my wife to run our business”, the businessman stated.

Operating his business at a loss, the businessman told Guyana International Times that he is considering closing down his business since it is slowly dying in a dying Skeldon area.

A group of pensioners took some time to share their views on this issue and they also related the hardships they face on a daily basis.

“I am a pensioner and this issue not only affecting me but the smallest school child, books are so expensive these days”, one pensioner disclosed. His colleague, who was also discreet in giving name and designations, shared similar views.

“Imagine this present Government has members who grow up in Berbice and they are not doing enough for us, how can they take away we income?” he asked.

Most of the respondents who shared their views on this issue were totally disappointed in the state of the Skeldon/ Corriverton area.

Members of the community stated that Corriverton was one of the brightest areas, the markets, roadways and supermarkets used to be filled.

Things have changed since the main source of income has been taken away. The market vendors continue to cry as well

as businessmen and young unemployed individuals.

A father of three also explained how he has been hurting since he has been out of employment since the closure of the sugar estate. “I took a work pulling lumber and only G$4000 I gaining, this cannot do to feed my children on a weekly basis”, the father explained.

Meanwhile, an elderly citizen explained that this issue should not be of race, but of economics.

Taking away the sugar estate from Skeldon has not done any good for anyone in the Skeldon area. “If the estate is closed, a replacement institute should have been in place for all those unemployed and broke workers”, he stated.

Another businessman at the upper-part of Skeldon, asked how things will get better, and how the money will circulate if the main income has been taken away.

The money is simply not circulating and business has been on the lower side of things in the area. This estate has left many unemployed, people from the Skeldon area onto Eversham have suffered the consequences of the closure of the sugar estate.

Members of the Skeldon area are calling for a better standard of living, reopening of the sugar estate and for employment to all. Unemployed youngsters have been involved in crime and it is not doing the community any good.

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Brothers remanded to prison for narco trafficking

T

Brothers Kevin and Kevon Thomas

wo brothers were slapped with a narcotics trafficking charge on Monday and appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Kevon Thomas, a logger and Kevin Thomas, a labourer, both 23-year-old of Dubally, Upper Berbice Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Both men denied the charge, which stated that on July 9, 2019 at Hururu Upper Berbice River, Region 10 they had in their possession 2.38 kilograms of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield in court on Monday stated that on the day in question at about 01:30 h ranks from the Kwakwani Police Station acting on information

proceeded to the Berbice River.

On arrival the ranks observed a wooden boat with four occupants and a search was carried out on the vessel. The ranks unearthed a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems in a haversack in the boat.

According to the prosecutor, the men were told of the offence and taken to the Kwakwani Police Station where the two defendants give ranks caution statements admitting to the offence.

The Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds of the prevalence of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts.

The Chief Magistrate after listening to submission remanded the brothers to prison. The case will continue on August 2 at the Kwakwani Magistrate’s Courts.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

6 weeks after, Cops yet to arrest suspects in Agricola vigilante beating O

ver six weeks have passed since the truck driver involved in the Agricola, East Bank Demerara acci-dent, which claimed the life of a seven-yearold girl, was severely beaten by residents from the area and the police are yet to make an arrest.

However, the police are still investigating the matter, with the hope of identifying the persons respon-sible for the vigilante beating and burning of the driver’s truck.

Last month, A Division (GeorgetownEast Bank Demerara) Commander, Marlon Chapman publicly declared that those caught for the crimes will face the full brunt of the law.

“Yes, once they are identified we will have them arrested. Everyone who is identified for assaulting the man, we will have them arrested. Despite the circumstances, they cannot beat someone, that is against the law”, Chapman had told Guyana Times International.

Videos on social media showed that the truck driver was dripping blood as a result of the beating he received.

After the beating, he was handed over to the police who took him to

Truck Driver, Danion Welcome

the Georgetown Public Hospital to seek medical attention.

However, Crime Chief Lyndon Alves also told this publication on Sunday that it is too early to deter-mine who is responsible for the fatal accident while adding that investigations are ongoing.

“I will not want to pronounce on that until that investigation by the Traffic Department is completed. That is the confusion because we

Dead: Ciara Benjamin

pronounce without getting the facts and when the facts are re-vealed then persons would want to say that the police are covering up.”

Based on reports received, on June 1, the child was attempting to cross the road with her aunt, Sa-mantha Barry, at about 16:45h in the vicinity of the Independence Arch at Agricola.

During that time, a truck bearing registration number GWW

962 was heading to Georgetown when he allegedly swerved to avoid hitting a vehicle and ended up in the path of the pedestrians.

Upon impact, the woman was flung some distance away while the truck remained fixed on the median with the child pinned underneath. A light pole was unearthed as a result of the impact and subsequently collapsed on the roadway.

About one hour later,

a forklift and crane were used to lift the vehicle and remove the child’s remains. Her body was completely severed.

Benjamin’s aunt recalled that she had just picked up the child and held her hand as they were crossing the road to go home. However, she claimed that the truck “came from nowhere” and slammed into the child.

Fire After the scene was cleared, there was a sigh

of relief but another unexpected tragedy arose when the lorry was set alight at about 18:10h, creating a towering inferno in the middle of the roadway.

Laden with fuel, it burned for hours, blockading the flow of traffic.

At one instance, there was a string of vehicles from Diamond on the EBD, to Mandela Avenue.

Pedestrians stood in disbelief as small explosions erupted from the fire. At 18:43h, the Guyana Fire Service was yet to arrive at the scene as fuel leaked onto the roadway, burning uncontrollably and threatening nearby buildings.

Nevertheless, commuters took the risk of crossing the burning truck, in what was described as one of the “most dangerous” situations.

Police presence was observed at strategic points to maintain order on two of the four lanes which were operational. One driver related that he was waiting for three hours to access the Demerara Har-bour Bridge.

At 19:28h, firefighters arrived at the scene to douse the burning truck, which was completely burnt.

Gasifier at UG to help reduce carbon footprint A

gasifier was commissioned at the University of Guyana (UG) on Monday, which, once fully opera-tional, will contribute to the reduction in the carbon footprint of the University by utilising a significant amount biomass found on campus.

This is according to Deputy ViceChancellor, Dr Paloma MohamedMartin, who on Monday said that the machine will also be able to provide clean and renewable bioenergy to the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry and potentially enable a significant reduction in the electricity bill to the University when fully operational.

“This gasifier is expected to produce biochar and to train students in bioenergy technology in the BSc Degree programmes in Agriculture and Forestry and in the Masters in Energy…the project which took about 3 years to develop and now in test mode, will have the capacity to produce 10-12 kilowatts of clean energy. The gasifier will be used for research in other biomass materials (eg grass pellets, coconut shells, rice-hull pellets among other biomass sources to produce biochar and electricity),” Mo-hamed-Martin said.

She explained that it will also be used for training other stakeholders in organic agriculture and power genera-

The gasifier that was commissioned at UG’s Turkeyen Campus on Monday

tion using biomass.

Mohamed-Martin said that the “biochar used as a soil ameliorant can aid Guyana’s international com-mitment to mitigate climate change and contribute to the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) by storing carbon in the soil in a stable form…this project is part of the University of Guyana’s major orientation towards a more robust research agenda in STEM”.

The gasifier was designed by one of UG’s professors, Dr Lawrence Lewis, and his team. Dr Lewis re-marked that the mechanical design was “a few years in the making” and its output could lead to a long-term green energy solution.

Meanwhile, according to UG, the unit will now begin its test and application phase over the next 12 months and during this phase, it will be tested under different conditions and using chips from several types of wood to make the pellets that act as fuel for the unit.

There are plans for the usage of the gasifier for research in other biomass resources such as grass pel-lets, coconut shells and rice-hull pellets among other biomass sources to produce biochar and electrici-ty.

The project was conducted in collaboration with ExxonMobil.

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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Voters’ list can be cleaned up in Claims and Objections period - APNU/AFC pollster …says President should call elections

T

he A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) pollster, Peter Wickham appeared on a News Talk Radio Guyana panel discussion on Sunday, recommending that President David Granger calls general and regional elections as soon as possible without Houseto-House Registration.

In a panel discussion post Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) consequential orders, the political scientist argued that the coalition Government would have contested the 2011 and 2015 polls with the list that expired on April 30, 2019 and won same.

According to a Demerara Waves article, Wickham stated, “I personally don’t think that the list is in a bad shape and I believe if you won once on the list, you can probably win a second time on the list.” In fact, Wickham, who runs the Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES), predicted that if an election was called, there would

be a close fight between the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the APNU/AFC. Further, on the radio show, Wickham posited that there were bloated voters’ lists in almost every Caribbean country, since names of migrants and deceased persons were not easily removed.

On this note, he added that this could be corrected by a Claims and Objections period.

“The reality of the electoral lists all over the

Region is an unfortunate one. There are many countries in the Region where the list is easily one-third larger than the size of the actual population for many different reasons,” he said, according to the Demerara Waves article.

He also made reference to the 2016 and 2018 Local Government Elections (LGE) in which the same voters’ list was used. As such, he believes that the law can be amended for the life

of the list to be extended and subjected to a Claims and Objections period.

In June, the CCJ validated a no-confidence motion against the Government, triggering the need for early elections in accordance with Article 106 (6) and 106 (7) of the Constitution.

In the Government’s submission of consequential orders, Attorney General Basil Williams held out that the Guyana Elections Commission

(GECOM) must proceed with national registration.

He said the Court should order that “the registration of persons for the purpose of ascertaining who is qualified to be an elector is by ‘house to house’ visits as provided for under section 3(1) of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act of 2000.”

This has been opposed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who urged that a Claims

and Objections period would solve the problem.

However, the holding of an election is not possible, since the CCJ had also ruled that the unilateral appointment of GECOM Chairman, Retired Justice James Patterson was a breach of Guyana’s Constitution. He has since resigned.

CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders declared in the ruling that before President David Granger rejected persons nominated

by Opposition Leader Jagdeo, reasons should have been given for the rejections in the interest of transparency.

However, in handing down its consequential orders on Friday, the CCJ had urged that Guyana’s political leaders appoint a new GECOM Chairman with the utmost urgency. This is especially in light of its previous June 18 ruling validating the December NoConfidence Motion thus triggering the need for fresh elections by September 18.

NEWS 43

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

GECOM officials who flout orders will be hit with sanctions

– Opposition-nominated Commissioners

T

hree of the commissioners from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) have warned officers at the body to comply with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) directive and work towards holding elections, lest they be hit with sanctions for breaking the law.

In a statement last Saturday, Opposition nominated Commissioners Bibi Shadick, Sase Gunraj and Robeson Benn, urged GECOM and its Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield to awake from their slumber and immediately begin preparations for elections.

“Upon the passage of this motion of no confidence the clear provisions Article 106 immediately became engaged, it is now the only imperative to abide with the provisions of the Constitution and its statutory related thereto,” the commissioners stated.

The commissioners cited the CCJ judgement, where the CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders had reminded the court that GECOM has to abide by the constitution and that it has a responsibility.

“Consistent with the orders of the CCJ GECOM must immediately start preparations for elections and its Chief Executive Officer Lowenfield must ensure this in accordance with his statutory functions.

Naturally, any official of GECOM who does anything inconsistent with the CCJ’s orders would be in gross contempt of the said orders and the Constitution and would thereby attract the appropriate sanctions.”

“We, therefore, join the call for the proper observance of the rule of law and declare that we stand ready, as always, to fully support the implementation of constitutionally democratic processes as is required for all of GECOM’s activities,” the commissioners stressed.

On July 12, CCJ ruled that the APNU/ AFC Coalition government should have resigned and general elections be called in accordance with the “spirit and letter” of the constitution of Guyana.

Without naming a date for elections, CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders in-

The PPP-nominated commissioners: Robeson Benn, Bibi Shadick and Sase Gunraj

sisted that the constitution is clear and therefore the December 21, 2018 passage of the NoConfidence Motion triggered Articles 106 (6) and (7).

Article 106 (6) of the Constitution states: “The Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

M e a n w h i l e , Article 106 (7) states: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.”

According to Justice Saunders, there was no need for the court to gloss over these provisions but it is in fact the responsibility of the constitutional actors to be faithful to the rule of law and operate within parameters of the Constitution. “Upon the passage of a vote of no confidence, the Article requires the resignation of the Cabinet including the President. The Article goes on to state, among other things, that notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and that an election shall be held within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than twothirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine.”

Furthermore, the CCJ President noted that with the Guyana

Elections Commission (GECOM also responsible for the conduct of the elections, it therefore means that the elections body “too must abide

by the provisions of the Constitution.

He went onto to point out that elections should have been held on March 21, 2019 following the

December passage of the Opposition Sponsoredmotion but that process was on “pause” pending the legal proceedings.

That process, he added however, was no longer on pause following the court’s June 18, 2019 ruling, which upheld the validity of the no confidence motion and thus triggering the need for fresh elections. This means that general and regional elections would have to be held on or before September 18, 2019 to be consistent with the three months’ constitutional deadline.

At present, GECOM is without a Chairman.

Since the regional court ruled that former

GECOM Chairman, retired Justice James Patterson’s appointment was unconstitutional, he has resigned.

As such, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and President David Granger have been trying to find a replacement to carry out the necessary early elections.

At the same time, GECOM lawyer Stanley Marcus had revealed during the CCJ hearings that the commission has already started house to house registration and has spent millions in preparation for this. Attempts to contact Lowenfield or other officials from GECOM were futile.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana introduces app to help farmers market goods T he Telecommunications Ministry, in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry, on Tuesday launched a website dubbed FarmersMarket.gy to help farmers sell their produce on both the local and international markets.

The trading platform will enable farmers to buy and sell fresh fruits and vegetables for now.

In the near future, the Farmers Market App will be extended to include the marketing of livestock, poultry, fish and dairy.

Farmers will, however, have to be certified by the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) by proving their goods are of an exceptional standard.

A representative from the Agriculture Ministry explained that the farm certification means that the Agriculture Ministry, or NAREI, in particular, are providing the assurance that the produce being exported or traded are of the highest qual-

ity. This assurance also extends to the face that the products would have passed through a certification programme that ensures that it is free from pests and diseases.

The representative explained that the Agriculture Ministry’s

NAREI branch will be responsible for visiting farmers and advising them to ensure they meet the requirements for certification. The representative stressed the importance of certification, as he alluded to the point that the Ministry is

seeking to market these goods on the international front.

Meanwhile, the Telecommunications Minister, Cathy Hughes, pointed out the importance of the App, as she highlighted that some parts of the world are struggling to produce their own food “The most important thing about this App too is it lets us know what’s on demand (so) who in Miami, who in Canada is looking for what”.

The Minister said the App will help farmers to properly choose a crop to plant based on the demands of the public, rath-

er than planting on presumptions.

This will reduce the occurrence of spoilage and more importantly, revenue loss.

It was also explained that several international firms are already looking to purchase goods from Guyana on a large scale. Hughes encouraged farmers to team up to meet the demands of those customers, rather than decline to supply the items based on its possible “larger scale”.

The new App was developed by 2017’s winner of the Ministry’s Hackathon, Innovative Systems.

‘Missing’ 14-year-old girl found at Essequibo Coast bar

T

he missing 14-yearold girl, Jessica Fidel, of Waiakabra on the LindenS o e s d y k e Highway— who disappeared without a trace on July 7, 2019— was found alive at a bar at Aurora Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Reports are that Police located the teen Monday after acting on a tip off where the Jessica Fidel The family expressed teen was found appreciation to the ranks in the company of two women— who operate a of the Timehri Police Station and the policing bar at Aurora Village.

The teen, who was group who exercised pareunited with her fam- tience and assisted in the ily, was questioned at teen being found.

The teen was reportTimehri Police Station and released into her edly last seen with a male family’s care. She will friend from her neighalso be interviewed by bourhood, who claimed the Welfare Department that he only accompaof the Child Care nied her to a neighbour’s house on the night she Protection Agency.

The teen’s family is went missing.

A missing person’s happy that she was found report was lodged at the but believe that she was aided by a person or per- Timehri Police Station sons since she had nev- and Kuru Kururu Police er travelled anywhere on Outpost the following her own and had never day.

A relative of been to Essequibo Coast. who reached “We are happy that Fidel, she was found safe. How out to Guyana Times stated she got to Essequibo re- International, that the young man was mains a mystery. She questioned and released isn’t saying much but we believe that she was aid- but the neighbour had ed by someone and the not been questioned.

The relative stated Police are investigating that they had received the matter,” a relative certain information as said.

The Police will be to the girl’s whereabouts questioning a few per- and provided the inforsons after welfare offi- mation to the Police in cers conclude their re- an effort to get them to act on it. port.

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘Constitution is clear on what should happen after a no-confidence vote’

… former National Assembly Clerk

P

rior to the holding of a General and Regional elections, Parliament has to be dissolved by a proclamation from the President with a set date for elections.

Despite the passage of a No-Confidence Motion against his government over seven months ago, however, President David Granger has failed to do anything.

Longstanding former Clerk of the National Assembly, Frank Narine has asserted that indeed the President was supposed to dissolve Parliament before an election date could be set – if elections are to be held.

“Everyone seems to be interpreting the Constitution in their own way,” he asserted. “The Constitution says what must happen. Article 106 says that when a No-Confidence Motion is passed, the President and Cabinet have to resign. And it goes on to say elections must be held in three months after the passing of the motion, unless the National

Former Clerk of the National Assembly, Frank Narine

Assembly extends the time.

“The President has to proclaim a date for elections. And it is the President who will have to dissolve Parliament before elections. The President has to formally issue a proclamation dissolving Parliament, so

the National Assembly can’t meet. Members cease to be members …

I think if it’s dissolved, it means he’s serious: he’s going to have elections.

But the President hasn’t done anything.”

Narine noted that when the No-Confidence Motion was passed,

the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) should have been getting its systems ready for the possibility of holding elections and not idling.

He likened it to staff knowing what they have to do, but failing to carry out their mandate.

“It means they were sleeping. If the President has a member of staff and he says I want this report by the end of the month, and that staff member fails to give it, what must the President do? It means the President has the wrong staff member.

Did they get directions not to (get ready to) hold elections?”

Already, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has ruled out his side supporting any extension of the life of the Government through Parliament. According to Article 106 of the Constitution, such an extension requires a twothirds majority of all members of National Assembly.

Article 106 (6) of the Constitution states: “The Cabinet including

the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

M e a n w h i l e , Article 106 (7) states: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than twothirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.”

Such a No-Confidence Motion was passed on December 21, 2018 and according to Jagdeo, during a previous press conference, Government sought to delay election preparations rather than comply with the Constitution. As a consequence, the Opposition Leader said that the window for his side to agree to extend their time in

Government has closed.

Meanwhile, GECOM has no Chairman.

Since the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled that former GECOM Chairman, Retired Justice James Patterson was appointed unconstitutionally, he has resigned. As such, Jagdeo and Granger have been trying to find a replacement to carry out the necessary early elections. In keeping with this, Jagdeo submitted a list of 11 nominees gleaned from the lists he submitted in 2017, before Patterson’s unilateral appointment.

On the other hand, President Granger’s informal list includes Retired Justices James Patterson, Claudette La Bennett and Stanley Moore as well as economist Aubrey Armstrong, Attorney Kesaundra Alves and former Solicitor General Kim Kyte. The President also proposed known People’s National Congress (PNC) affiliates Stanley Ming (a former PNC parliamentarian) and Kads Khan.

Patterson says CJIA to be fully operational this week P

ublic Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has said that the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri(CJIA) will be in full operation this week.

He noted that once a warranty is provided for the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, the airport will be fully operable.

However, Patterson explained that while it is necessary to obtain the warranty certificate, the Government will accept it since there is a defect liability period.

This means that the contractor will remain liable under the building contract for a certain period after practical completion of his services in this regard.

“There is a defect liability period for quite some time, so if anything comes up, they would have to repair it. But it’s just to wait until we get the [warranty from the] manufacturers of the air conditioning system,” he explained.

The expansion of the CJIA has been ongoing for a number of years, and while the APNU+AFC Government has repeatedly blamed the former administration for not including necessary plans in the project during the initial stag-

Arriving passengers making their way out of the airport

es, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has stated that the absence of those necessary plans is a deliberate strategy to create opportunities for local contractors.

He said in May that while several aspects were not included in the contract, the Government should have implemented those that were already there.

According to Jagdeo, the Government ought to be held accountable for not doing its part to ensure the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), deliver what it was contracted to deliver.

“Now we’re getting criticised for what’s not in the contract, rather than what was in the contract that this

Government has changed; so we now have a rehabilitated terminal, rather than a new terminal, and they reduced the size of the apron,” Jagdeo said. “And we get criticised for what we didn’t put in the contract, but they’re not even achieving what we put in the contract.”

Meanwhile, as of January, 2019, CHEC has been paid

US$132 million. When payments to the consultant and local contractors are also factored in, that sum rises to US$142 million.

Government’s contract with CHEC expired in December of last year.

In 2012, under the PPP/C Administration, Guyana secured a US$138 million loan from the China Exim (ExportImport) Bank to fund the expansion and modernisation project, for which the Guyana Government was slated to inject some US$12 million.

Nevertheless, millions of dollars had to be pumped into the expansion project after issues started to surface.

The Govt had approached the National Assembly for supplementary funding to offset additional expenses that were already incurred.

In addition to the additional sums of money, there were several delays in the time set for operation to commence at the main port of entry.

Meanwhile, upon completion, the CJIA is expected to have four air passenger boarding bridges for arrivals and departures; a 450-seat departure area; escalators and elevators in addition to an extended runway catering for larger categories of aircraft.

NEWS 47

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana’s First Lady, UNICEF laud school health club programme

G

uyana’s First Lady Sandra Granger has commended the Public Health Ministry’s Secondary School Health Club initiative, noting that it can serve as a method of informing teens about their sexual and reproductive health.

The School Health Club, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI), is an initiative designed with adolescents in mind, especially those in school. It engages a series of activities aimed at improving their health and wellness, and the environment.

The national programme was launched on July 10 at Camp Wesleyan on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

It focuses on capacity building for teachers and students, who will implement activities in the various secondary school health clubs. It was highlighted that training for teachers in Regions 3, 4 and 10 who would be involved in similar initiatives commenced earlier in the year.

The First Lady observed that, in her “interaction with young people around this country and in the Caribbean as well, it is obvious that many are uninformed or misinformed about their sexual and reproductive health.”

The First Lady is quoted by DPI as saying it is essential for parents, teachers and community leaders

First Lady Sandra Granger

to address sexual and reproductive health, domestic violence, different forms of abuse, and mental health in a manner that is relatable to young people.

Adolescent and Development Officer Jewel Crosse of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) explained that UNICEF sees the health club initiative as a vehicle that empowers adolescents to play an active role in deciding and implementing solutions to issues related to their health and wellbeing.

“The [school health] clubs will also give the students the opportunity to become agents of change; and, as agents of change, you will be able to carry the information which you receive

into your homes, communities, and the wider areas at large,” Crosse said.

It has been added that the establishment of these clubs presents an excellent opportunity to equip adolescents with necessary life skills to prevent poor health and avoid poor choices.

“Poor health and poor choice can impact negatively on growth and development, and can also affect a child’s ability to learn…

We see the health clubs as being able to guide you to adopt positive behaviour,” Crosse said.

The health club is required to gear discussions and activities around topics and issues that affect students as they transition from childhood to adulthood.

Tourism authority wants more tax concessions

G

uyana Tourism Authority (GTA) on Wednesday reiterated previous calls for Government to grant more concessions for the tourism sector during its mid-year press conference.

Early in June, The Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) had lobbied Government to grant concessions, as it aimed to have tourism included in the export sector.

GTA’s Director Brian Mullis told the media that the agency’s interested in advocating for tourism to be recognised in the export sector and should be granted tax concessions and incentives just as gold and rice exportations.

“There are a number of tax concessions and incentives for travelling in tourism in the areas of ground transportation, accommodation, refurbishment, expansions and some for tour operators etc…however, recognising that tourism is an export sector, we’re looking for advocating for that formal recognition of the sector as an export sector in 2020 so that we can be afforded some of the tax concessions and incentives that other export sector have,” Mullis explained.

Asked whether there are specific areas in mind when making these concessions request to Government, the Director highlighted those in transportation and accommodation, especially within the interior locations.

“We want it to be possible for the sector to upgrade vehicles, particularly four by four vehicles, in the interior but also larger transit vehicles for larger groups, we want to see incentives for expanding existing lodging particu-

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Brian Mullis

larly in the interiors, refurbishing existing lodges as well and other recreational equipment,” he stated.

In providing some reassurance to granting these requests, Business Minister Hemraj Rajkumar, on behalf of his caretaker Government, underscored that the Ministry is working on processing some concessions application for its investors.

“One of the things we are requesting is for concessions that we can encourage the development of our tourist industry.

Concessions for those persons who wish to bring in our country vehicles that would be used for tourism….we have received a few applications from persons which are being processed. The Ministry is supporting the development of tourism in our country and we will see as much as best to afford our investors the concessions they request,” Minister Rajkumar said.

Caretaker Government in Guyana

By Ravi Dev

R

OAR was formed and decided to contest the elections set for 17 Jan 2001 in accordance with the Herdmanston Accord.

However, a dispute between the PPP Government and the PNC Opposition over one of the agreed reforms – the number of “geographical” seats – prevented the necessary legislation being passed and the elections had to be delayed to March 19. I remember the PNC suggesting that the PPP Government should resign and a coalition Government should govern during the interregnum. An all-party committee, however, decided that the PPP should remain in office but that its powers should be reduced.

I point this out against the background of the CCJ’s ruling that since the Cabinet and President should resign directly upon the passage of a No-Confidence Motion – effectively July 18 when the CCJ so ruled – and that elections should be held in accordance with the governing Art 106 – 3 months afterwards, or Sept 18 – the PNC-led coalition only has “caretaker status”. It noted, “It is important, however, that the Court makes this

point. In mandating that the Government shall remain in office notwithstanding its defeat and the resignation of the President and the Cabinet, Article 106 envisages that the tenure in office of the Cabinet, including the President, after the Government’s defeat, is on a different footing from that which existed prior to the vote of no confidence”. Chancellor Cummings-Edwards, citing Hogg, the Canadian constitutional expert, was right to note that: “…The Government continues in office as a caretaker Government or an interim Government until the next elections ensue and a President is appointed (or reappointed) depending on the results of that election”.

By convention, the Government is expected to behave during this interim period as a caretaker and so restrain the exercise of its legal authority. It is this caretaker or interim role that explains the three-month deadline, in the first instance that the Article lays down, in principle, for the holding of the fresh elections.

The “convention” the CCJ alluded to is quite prevalent in most other parliamentary democracies – such

as Canada, India, Australia, and New Zealand etc. – to cover the activities of the Government between the dissolution of Parliament for new elections – for whatever reasons – and the formation of a new Government and are actually called “Caretaker Conventions”. The agreement between the PPP, PNC and other parliamentary parties forged by the “all-party” committee for the reduced powers of the PPP Government between 17 Jan and 21 march, 2001 is a prototype for such a

Caretaker Convention here in Guyana.

In its “Introduction: The Caretaker Convention” The Canadian Government declares: “The conventional restriction limiting the extent to which the Government should exercise its authority applies whether it has lost a vote of confidence in the House, whether the Prime Minister has asked for dissolution on his or her own initiative, or whether Parliament has been dissolved in advance of an election date set by legislation.

It also applies to the outgoing Government during any postelection transition to a successor Government.

This caretaker period begins when the Government has lost a vote of no-confidence or Parliament has been dissolved. It ends when a new Government is sworn in, or when an election results returning an incumbent Government is clear”.

This does not mean that Government is barred from making decisions or announcements, or otherwise taking action, during the caretaker period. It can and should do so where the matter is routine and necessary for the conduct of Government business, or where it is urgent and in the

public interest – for example, responding to a natural disaster. In certain cases where a major decision is unavoidable during a campaign (e.g., due to an international obligation or an emergency), consultation with the opposition parties may be appropriate, particularly where a major decision could be controversial or difficult for a new Government to reverse.

In short, during an election, a Government should restrict itself – in matters of policy, expenditure and appointments – to activity that is: A) routine B) Non-controversial C) Urgent and in the public interest D) Reversible by a new Government without undue cost or disruption or, E) Agreed to by opposition parties (in those cases where consultation is appropriate).

As a long term friend of Guyana, perchance the Canadian Embassy can bring this convention to the notice of the PNC-led caretaker Government. They appear to have forgotten its 2001 restrictions on the PPP Government in an analogous situation.

48 Bollywood

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Shah Rukh Khan to receive another honorary doctorate B

ollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is set to receive an honorary doctorate degree from Melbourne-based La Trobe University for his contributions and efforts towards underprivileged children, women’s empowerment through Meer Foundation and his achievements in the Indian entertainment industry.

Khan, who will be visiting Australia to attend the 10th edition of

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) next month as its chief guest, said having his humanitarian endeavours recognised for the first time by the country was a great honour.

La Trobe University is the first Australian university to award Khan with an Honorary Degree, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa).

“I’m proud to be conferred with a great university like La Trobe which has a long-stand-

ing relationship with Indian culture and impressive track record in advocating for women’s equality,” Khan was quoted by the university’s statement on Monday.

“I feel truly privileged to receive this Honorary Doctorate and I would like to sincerely thank La Trobe for choosing to recognise my achievements in such a humbling way,” he added.

IFFM director Mitu Bhowmick said the fes-

tival was lucky to have the university as a partner.

“The university shares our festival’s core values of inclusion, diversity and cultural growth,” Bhowmick said, adding “To be a part of this magnificent celebration of Mr Shah Rukh Khan’s amazing work, with La Trobe, is a matter of great joy and pride for the festival.”

La Trobe will present Khan with his Honorary Doctorate on August 9

H

A

lot has been written about Rishi Kapoor’s return to India after his cancer treatment. Now, it is the 66-year-old actor who has finally spoken about his health and return to India.

In a recent interaction with Mumbai Mirror, Rishi shared how he has been counting days and is missing home. He said, “Thanks to the prayers and good wishes of my family, friends and fans, I am perfect now. The cancer is in remission, but I am still under treatment.

The problem is not the treatment but the reaction time. There is a sixweek gap between one treatment and the next when all you can do is eat, shop, watch movies, live a normal life which I would rather do at home than here in New York.”

The Mulk actor has been in New York for over nine months now.

His wife Neetu Singh is by his side constantly and he is often visited by

his children Ranbir and Riddhima Kapoor.

When questioned about his return, Rishi Kapoor told Mumbai Mirror, “I have to be here for 11 months, so I will not be back before the end of August. It’s been a difficult time, very taxing, but Neetu (wife), and my children (Ranbir and Riddhima) have been very supportive. I will plan my return five-six weeks after my last treatment. It is called consolidation or pushback, whereby I will have to undergo chemotherapy to ensure that the ailment does not return.”

“This is the second time I am going through the treatment. I am hoping that I can plan an endAugust return but all this talk that I will be back in early September for my birthday, is again nothing but speculation,” he added.

On the work front, Rishi Kapoor will be seen in the film Jhootha Kahin Ka and he has two other movies in his kitty. (Indian Express)

uma Qureshi will be soon seen in zombie heist thriller Army of the Dead. Directed

by Zack Snyder, the Netflix movie also stars Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Ana De La Reguera and Theo Rossi among others.

Talking about Army of the Dead, Qureshi admits that she is surprised at how swiftly things progressed during her chance visit to Los Angeles in May. Huma Qureshi said, “Well, I was in Los Angeles and I was here for other work. I was asked to go for this audition.

I said why not, and I went for it. This was on a Friday and they told me this is a film which is amazing. It has Zack Snyder and it’s something different. This happened on Friday and I came back to India the next day. On Tuesday, they called and offered me the film. That is

T

aapsee Pannu, who will next be seen in Mission Mangal, being touted as India’s first space film, believes more films with a backdrop of space should be explored.

The movie is said to be loosely based on the story of scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who contributed to the Mars Orbiter Mission, India’s first interplanetary expedition.

“It is a backdrop that should be explored not just by making a film on Rakesh Sharma or

at its Melbourne campus in Bundoora.

The La Trobe University ViceChancellor John Dewar, said the actor’s philanthropic leadership closely aligns with the university’s values.

“Khan is a champion of societal change whose efforts to support the equality of women in India reflect La Trobe’s values of inclusiveness, equity and social justice,” Dewar said.

As the only Victorian

how it really happened. I am excited about this film, but I cannot reveal much about it as it is too early to talk about it. We haven’t started shooting yet. I just want to shoot and give it my best shot.”

The actor added, “It is a great opportunity for me to explore such varied genres. The idea of working with Zack is amazing considering his films in the past.

This

university to teach Hindi language and cinema studies Dewar said it was a natural fit for La Trobe to be the exclusive Learning Partner for the IFFM. “In the past eight years we have been proud to host India’s iconic film stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Vidya Balan and Rajkumar Hirani with the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne at La Trobe,” Dewar added.

(Indian Express)

genre is vastly unexplored in India, and right now is the time for successful experimentation. As an actor, I am constantly trying to do something different, something that is never done before, and it is extremely gratifying. The team behind the film needs no introduction and it’s truly an honour for me to be part of Army of the Dead.”

Huma Qureshi was last seen in Deepa Mehta’s Netflix show Leila.

She has also been a part of some south Indian movies like White and Kaala.

When asked how she balances such varied projects, the actor said, “I have always believed in growing and essaying characters which are totally out of my comfort zone.

These experiences at the end of the day make you a better artiste.

It is a great time and opportunity for me to explore as many varied genres as I can.” (Indian Express)

Kalpana Chawla but more exciting stories should be made. It feels good that Bollywood is ready to explore this space.

“Technically, I don’t think we have a doubt. We are good at VFX and our audience is hungry to watch great visuals. With Mission Mangal, people will get to see an outand-out space film,” Taapsee told PTI. Talking a b o u t Mission Mangal, Taapsee said, “It is a wonderful, inspir-

ing real story. This story deserves to be shared with everyone.”

The film boasts of an ensemble cast including Vidya Balan, Sonakshi Sinha, Kirti Kulhari, Nithya Menon, Sharman Joshi, Akshay Kumar and Taapsee Pannu.

It is directed by Jagan Shakti.

“I was excited to share screen space with such brilliant actors. It has Akshay and Sharman playing pivotal roles but the majority of the cast is female. We all had a great time working on the film,” Taapsee added.

The trailer of the film is set to be launched tomorrow.

Mission Mangal, produced

by Cape of Good Films, Hope Productions and Fox Star Studios, is scheduled to be released on August 15 this year. (Indian Express)

HOLLYWOOD 49

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

A

s the frozen lovers Rose and Jack clung to a bobbing slab of timber in the icy Atlantic waters during the final moments of Titanic, audience members believed their love should have gone on.

Jack’s body and legs dangled in the subzero waters below, as Rose rested atop a wooden door that had been flushed out of the doomed ocean liner. But was Jack’s chivalry in vain? Could Rose have made room for him on that slab of wood?

This week, Leonardo DiCaprio, who played the 20-year-old Jack in the 1997 drama, nearly waded into the debate, reigniting a controversy that has haunted the movie on internet forums for years and inspired re-creations nearly as elaborate as the $280 million film.

In an interview with MTV News during the publicity tour for the Quentin Tarantino film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, DiCaprio sat with his arms folded and looked down at the

I

t was just a few months ago that director Jon Favreau was sitting in a scoring session with composer Hans Zimmer for The Lion King, his ambitious and technology-driven reimagining of the 1994 animated classic, and he and everyone else in the room were getting a little emotional.

It’s no wonder: They were recording the music for the stampede (yes, THAT stampede).

“Working on it doesn’t make it any less emotional,” Favreau said in an interview earlier this year.

And don’t even get him started on what it was like to listen to James Earl Jones record his lines as Mufasa.

The Lion King is three years in the making with some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Beyoncé, and the expectations couldn’t be higher. None of the other major studios have even dared to go up against it in theaters this weekend. Early tracking suggest that it could make as much as $150 million in its first weekend in North America, and it’s already grossed over $55 million in China.

It helps, of course, that the material is familiar to most of the world already.

The animated film, which opened in June 1994 at the peak of the Disney an-

ground, shaking his head when a reporter asked about it.

Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie, who were present during the interview, suggested that perhaps Jack could have squeezed onto the plank with Rose, who was played by Kate Winslet.

A smirking DiCaprio was unmoved. “Like I said, I have no comment,” he said.

Robbie called the debate the “biggest controversy” in “modern cinema.” She also wondered if DiCaprio mentioned the door’s size while filming.

Pitt said he would go back and review the original footage.

He wouldn’t be the first. A casual Google search for “Titanic door” turns up more than 41 million results, among them feverish disputes about director James Cameron’s narrative, as well as character assassinations.

“Everybody knows that she should have got up off that board and shared it with him,” actress KeKe Palmer said about Rose.

“I’ll never get over that scene — she’s over there looking at him

imation renaissance, went on to become a critical hit, the highest grossing film of the year at the worldwide box office (it was second domestically to “Forrest Gump”), a two-time Oscar winner for Zimmer’s score and the song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” and a Broadway show — now the third-longest running and one of the most successful in history. So it was only a matter of time before the Walt Disney Co., in this new era of live-action remakes of its animated library which this year included both Dumbo and Aladdin, turned to one of its most beloved.

Favreau wasn’t even finished with his version of The Jungle Book when he started inquiring about plans for The Lion King.

He’d learned so much about motion capture technology and had a team he knew how to collaborate with. He was ready to take it to the next level. So, he raised his hand for the big job.

“I kind of lobbied for it,” Favreau said.

The studio waited until The Jungle Book was out to give him the official word, but the 2016 movie which scored with both critics and audiences, turned out to be a pretty good audition.

And he set to work prepping this “live-action” ″Lion King,” which, it should be said isn’t live-action at all.

while he’s freezing. It’s been hard to watch a movie of hers since.”

Since 2015, writer Roxane Gay has had an expletive-laden tweet pinned to the top of her Twitter profile, which concludes: “There is plenty of room on that door. I am going to bed.”

In 2012, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, stars of the Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters, donned rubbery suits in San Francisco Bay and determined it would have been

It’s a combination of virtual reality and “keyframe animation,” which means that the animals are all animated by hand, “just like all the old animated movies,” Favreau explained. In other words, if you visited the set, you would not find some gargantuan soundstage and a bunch of actors running around acting like lions while covered in motion capture bodysuits and dots. Rather, it was more of a “black box with people wearing headsets and VR goggles.”

The VR was used to “drive the camera” and “instead of just one layout artist on a computer, we had a

B

eyonce will soon be heard as Nala in upcoming film The Lion King. The singer-actor recently launched her song from the Disney film titled “Spirit”, along with a music video.

The video features Beyonce along with a few visuals of the film. The song is a part of the album The Lion King: A Gift. It will also appear in the movie at a crucial moment between Simba and Nala. The song was written for the film by IIya Salmanzadeh, Timothy McKenzie and Beyonce.

possible for both to survive, with a few MacGyver-like tweaks.

Of course, that leaves aside the subzero temperatures of the Atlantic.

Even astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has weighed in (of course he has), saying that science wasn’t exclusively to blame for Jack’s death.

“I would’ve tried more than once,” he told HuffPost in 2017 about DiCaprio character’s attempt at climbing aboard the door. “The survival instinct is

way stronger than that in everybody, especially in that character,” he said. “He’s a survivor, right? He gets through. He gets by.”

Cameron, who won the Academy Award for best director for the film, has been confronted by the question for decades.

In an interview with Vanity Fair 20 years after the film’s release, Cameron defended his decision as an “artistic choice.”

“The thing was just big enough to hold her and not big enough to hold him,” he said.

He added: “The film is about death and separation; he had to die. So whether it was that, or whether a smokestack fell on him, he was going down.”

“It’s called art,” the director told the magazine. “Things happen for artistic reasons, not for physics reasons.”

In February, Cameron quashed the discussion once again, describing what he called “dumbass arguments associated with it.” (Indian Express)

full crew operating virtual cameras in a virtual reality environment,” he said.

That includes esteemed cinematographer Caleb Deschanel, a six-time Oscar nominee.

The resulting special effect is that “It should feel like a live-action movie,” he said, even if it’s technically animated.

For the cast, which includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon, the process was pretty similar to what they would have done for a traditionally animated movie, but Favreau also filmed the actors during their voice recording sessions to help the animators. He knew it would look too weird to try to translate human expressions onto the cats’ faces so instead emotion is conveyed through body language (and a little mouth moving for the dialogue).

Anyone who’s seen the marketing thus far has no doubt recognized some fa-

miliar touchstones from the 1994 film. So familiar, in fact, that many have wondered if it was going to be a shot-for-shot remake.

Favreau said that isn’t the case.

“It diverges quite a bit,” he said. “It’s much longer than the original film.

And part of what we’re doing here is to (give it more dimension) not just visually but both story wise and emotionally.”

The main story points are the same, but like the stage musical, there will be differences too. Plus, he wanted to capitalize on the uniqueness of his actors.

With Beyoncé, for instance, he even changed the way he directed her and approached her animation after seeing her stage show and all the personas she channels for each song.

“Nala is a very powerful character who’s a warrior and also has a big heart and encapsulates a lot of different archetypes,” he said. “I wanted the way she was choreographed and with lions and the fight

scenes to have a resonance with the power with which (Beyoncé) choreographs her stage show.”

And of course there’s the music, which is just as important as the images in conjuring up all the emotion and nostalgia associated with the original.

Zimmer has updated and built upon his own score from 25 years ago, which will also integrate music from the stage show and the 2D film.

“It’s quite a lush version of the soundtrack and the score,” Favreau said.

There will be some recognizable songs, including “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” ″Hakuna Matata,” ″Be Prepared,” ″I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and “Circle of Life,” plus some new ones too.

And the hope is that this version resonates not only with the generations that grew up with “The Lion King,” but with a new batch of kids as well who may be experiencing it for the first time this way.

The Lion King: The Gift is a multi-artist album that has been produced by Beyonce. She has carefully curated some interesting sounds t o be a

part of the album which includes various African artistes.

“This is sonic cinema.

This is a new experience of storytelling. I wanted to do more than find a collection of songs that were inspired by the film.

It is a mixture of genres and collaboration that isn’t one sound. It is influenced by everything from R&B, pop, hip hop and Afro Beat,” Beyonce said in a statement.

She added, “I wanted to put every-

one on their own journey to link the storyline.

Each song was written to reflect the film’s storytelling that gives the listener a chance to imagine their own imagery, while listening to a new contemporary interpretation. It was important that the music was not only performed by the most interesting and talented artistes but also produced by the best African producers. Authenticity and heart were important to me.”

The Lion King releases on July 19. (Indian Express)

(Indian Express)

50 SPORT

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Rising star Hetmyer says ready for Hero CPL 2019 T

he 2018 Hero C a r i b b e a n Premier League (CPL) was a breakout season for Shimron Hetmyer, which he has used as a platform to further his international career and get picked up in other T20 tournaments such as the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Having finished last season as the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ top scorer with 440 runs, including a maiden T20 hundred, Hetmyer says he will be trying hard to improve on those stellar returns when the 2019 CPL gets underway on 4 September.

“Well, I’ll be looking to outdo it but let’s see how it goes. At this point I’m really feeling good about my batting where that is concerned and my overall game as well, so I’m looking to take it one step at a time and just try as much as possible and as hard as possible to try and take Guyana one step further this year.”

The CPL has played a big part in the de-

Shimron Hetmyer

velopment of many young players from the Caribbean, and Hetmyer says he has learned a huge amount from the tournament.

“It’s taught me a lot actually. It’s brought me up to the world stage knowing different players from around the world and playing

against some of the guys I’ve never played against before. [CPL] helps because you basically play with some of the guys that’s more established and in and around the international stage.”

“So it all helps you as a young player to develop your game and to know your strengths and

weaknesses, and work on them as early as possible so when you do get to that stage it gets a little bit easier for you and you make a less amount of mistakes,” he added.

Hetmyer was one of three Guyanese players the Amazon Warriors retained before the draft took place, and he is very

pleased with the rest of the squad that has been selected for the upcoming tournament.

“I think it’s a great pick. I must commend the management staff on picking such a wellrounded team. I would say also a very young team we have this year as well, with the excep-

tion of Shoaib. For us now it’s just about basically getting the right combination on the park on that specific day. We do have a very good team on paper so it’s all about us now just going out and putting on a very good show on the field.”

The Amazon Warriors have made the CPL final four times, including in 2018, and Hetmyer says he really wants to bring that CPL trophy home to Guyana.

“That’s the feeling I’m actually waiting to explain on that stage, I’m waiting for when we actually get to that hurdle and just stepping over it. Last year was heart-breaking for us to get, for us to be working that hard to get to that final and then we just lost it in that last game. So, it’s just about going out this year to just do our best yet again in our group stages, in our group stage matches, and then just take it one step further this year in the final.”

Mohamed’s Enterprise 6th Annual Futsal Tournament set for July 26 ─ 1 Georgetown team added, more Linden teams to compete

T

he Mohamed’s Enterprise Sixth Annual Futsal Tournament was officially declared open on Wednesday last at that company’s Lombard Street, Georgetown office.

In the simple but significant opening ceremony, it was revealed that this premier futsal tournament will be staged from Friday, July 26, through Saturday, August 10, at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden. The grand finale is slated for Saturday, August 17, at the same venue.

This year’s tournament will feature in excess of 15 teams drawn from Linden and Georgetown, battling to win the first prize of G$600,000 and a trophy and replica. The second prize of G$250,000 carries a trophy, as do the third prize of G$100,000 and the fourth prize of G$50,000.

Addressing the media at the launching ceremo-

ny, lead sponsor of this tournament, businessman Nazar Mohamed, emphasised the importance of sport.

“We would like to see our Government spend more on sports, because sport is critical in the country,” he said.

This businessman has partnered with New Era Entertainment in continuing to take futsal

to another level for a record sixth year.

This tournament, which has had a positive impact on Linden youths, will be diversified in the future, and, further, will feature more teams drawn from across Region 10.

The New Era Entertainment family, which has recently hosted the New Era/ExxonMobil

Inter-Schools Futsal Championships, has pledged to continue taking futsal to greater heights.

The promise is that this 2019 edition of the futsal tournament will be bigger. In 2018, only 15 teams had competed, but 2019 will see 18 teams taking centre stage as each battles for supremacy.

The Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal tournament will be played in two groups in round robin fashion, followed by the knockout stages.

Apart from the lone team from Georgetown which had competed in 2018, another team from the capital city will compete.

The West Side ballers and LA Ballers are the Georgetown teams that

are set to compete in the 2019 Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Tournament.

These Georgetown teams will bring competiveness to the table against the Linden teams.

This futsal tournament will not be a nationwide tournament, but a Linden-based tournament that is designed to further develop the Linden youths.

With more teams from the Linden area participating in this tournament, its growth has been evident. It is expected that future editions of this tournament would feature more teams from the Linden area, the Kwakwani area, and the Ituni area.

ANSA McAL, under its Heineken brand, and Cell Smart are on board as sponsors for this 2019 Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Tournament.

In the 2018 edition of this futsal tournament, Figgy-Green-Jags were the champions.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Trevor Bayliss signs with GPF 2019 Inter-Departmental TT Championships rated Sunrisers Hyderabad a resounding success as head coach W

orld Cupwinning coach Trevor Bayliss, whose tenure with England comes to an end after the Ashes, will take over as the Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach.

This will be Bayliss' second stint in the IPL, having already coached Kolkata Knight Riders from 2012 to 2015, during which time the franchise won the title twice.

It is understood that Sunrisers and Bayliss will work out the tenure of his contract soon.

ESPNcricinfo understands the franchise is yet to make a decision on the rest of the support staff, but it will retain the pair of VVS Laxman (mentor) and Muttiah Muralitharan (consultant).

Bayliss replaces fellow Australian Tom Moody, who parted ways with Sunrisers after seven seasons.

Sunrisers had won the IPL in 2016, and then finished runnersup in the 2018 edition. In 2019, they scraped through to the playoffs, but finished fourth eventually.

"After very careful consideration, the Sunrisers franchise has decided to take a new direction with the Head Coaching role and will be parting ways with the

services of Tom Moody," Sunrisers said in a statement. The reason Bayliss was preferred for the head coach role was because he is a "proven winner" and an "ideal" person to guide the future of the franchises.

According to K Shanmugham, the Sunrisers' CEO, it was the management's decision to part ways with Moody. The franchise made it clear Moody was not being

Trevor Bayliss has an impressive record as a T20 coach (Getty Images)

snubbed and acknowledged he had made an "enormous impact" in Sunrisers making the IPL playoffs five times in seven seasons. "Tom has been the longest serving coach in the IPL. He played a big role in development and success of the franchises. But the management felt it was time to try out someone new," Shanmugham said.

Moody tweeted a message of gratitude to the players, support staff and fans.

Bayliss' pedigree as a multiple-title winning coach is unparalleled, and is the big reason why more than one IPL franchise was trying to get him on board. It is understood Knight Riders, too, had initiated talks with him, as did Rajasthan Royals.

U n d e r Bayliss' watch, England won the 2015 Ashes 3-2, reached the World T20 final in 2016, became No. 1 side in the ODI rankings and won the World Cup at Lord's last week.

Bayliss had also won the Big Bash League with Sydney Sixers in 2010-11 and had also coached Sri Lanka, who reached the 2011 World Cup final during his tenure. (ESPNCricinfo)

Romalho wins consecutive GuyanaNRA Record Shoots

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ollowing his win one week ago with an aggregate score of 118 points and 6 Vbulls, Leo Romalho repeated as champion of the latest Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Record Shoot held on Sunday last at the Timehri Rifle Range, Yarrowkabra, Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

Despite notching two points less than the previous week, Romalho recorded enough Vbulls to stave off a stern test from fellow marksman Sherwin Felicien, who also tallied 116 points, the same as Romalho.

The difference was 7 Vbulls to 5 Vbulls.

Based on reports from the ranges, the day was hot with the wind factor being strong enough to still switching from left to right with equal strength.

The mirage was run-

Leo Romalho

ning and if attention was not paid to same, it would have resulted in the shooter losing the shot. As it turned out, the shooter who held his nerve came out the victor.

And two possible were

recorded on the day, veteran Ransford Goodluck was first to do so at the 300 Yards Range (50.5), he also ended with the most Vbulls for the day – 9. The other was recorded by Felicien at the 500 Yards Range, 35.0.

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Participants posing with their trophies at the end of the competition

ollowing its recent conclusion, the Guyana Police Force’s 2019 InterDepartmental Table Tennis Championships, in which more than 18 teams from respective departments of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) participated, has been rated a resounding success.

Coordinated by the GPF Sports Department, with support from the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) and the blessing of Police Commissioner Leslie James and Traffic Chief Linden Isles, the championships proved to be not only exciting, but filled with keen competition in which new talents were

unearthed, new rivalries were birthed, new challenges were issued, and a desire for the sport to be played within the GPF was rejuvenated.

The 18 participating teams came from divisions E, A, D, FAPC, HQSC, HQ, Finance, TSU, Immigration, and IT, among others.

Competition began with a round robin format which saw the top two teams advancing to the knockout stage. In the end Immigration, with an overload of such national talents as Nigel Bryan and Nicholas Romain, proved too strong for the rest of the field.

Spearheaded by ASP Hoyte, ‘E’ Division

emerged runners-up after a hard fought victory in the semifinals over Headquarters’ Johnathan Fagundes.

IT finished in fourth place, after their loss to Headquarters for the third-place playoff position.

National player Nigel Bryan has been voted The Most Valuable Player of these Championships.

ITTF-certified Umpire and Coach Candacy McKenzie coordinated the championships’ fixtures, with support from Kioma Archer and Travis Brown.

The singles’ aspect of the championships is scheduled for holding in October 2019.

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

WI must learn from England

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n all the years since the very first such tournament in 1975, England and New Zealand had never won the ICC Cricket (One Day International) World Cup. Three times previous to yesterday England had reached the final only to lose.

New Zealand — beaten by Australia in the 2015 final — has been among the most consistent teams at ODI cricket World Cup tournaments; reaching the semi finals eight times out of 12.

It's appropriate, then, that yesterday's final between the two would end up as the most thrilling in the history of World Cup cricket, and arguably the most extraordinary game in all of OneDay International (ODI) history.

As it turned out, England, with the help of considerable good fortune, won the trophy on the basis of a tie-break, super over.

For those who weren't paying attention, New Zealand first made 241 for eight wickets in their 50 overs, only for England to tie the game with 241 in 50

overs.

The tie necessitated an additional over, the super over, in order to decide a winner.

England made 15 in their six-ball over, only for New Zealand to also make 15 resulting in the game being decided in the Englishmen's favour on boundary count.

Excitement apart, perhaps the most noticeable aspect of this final was the obviously

high level of mental and physical preparedness.

Top-level physical fitness, meticulous planning, and mental strength in aid of proper execution were all to the fore in a game which ended in defeat for New Zealand only because there had to be a winner.

Indeed, the New Zealanders will feel, justifiably, that they lost because a throw to their

wicketkeeper hit the sliding bat of England's Mr Ben Stokes and was deflected to the boundary.

New Zealand's national cricket teams have always had a reputation for careful planning and preparation.

England, less so.

But, after a disastrous World Cup tournament in 2015, England, led by their strongwilled captain, Mr Eoin

Morgan — a native of the Republic of Ireland who played for that country before joining the English — transformed his adopted country's approach.

Backed by a large backroom staff and plentiful resources, England focused on aggressive, no holds barred, but efficient cricket, and set about correcting weaknesses and building on strengths.

In the quest for success on home soil, they even sacrificed principle.

Recognising that the former Barbados and West Indies Under-19 fast bowler Mr Joffra Archer would strengthen their team, England cut their residential eligibility requirement from seven years to three in order to have him for the World Cup. The move paid off. Mr Archer was England's most succesful bowler at the tournament and was the man called on for the super over at crunch time yesterday.

How can the West Indies cricket team, which performed so poorly at this World Cup despite an abundance of raw talent, benefit from England's triumph?

First and last, it seems to us, the lesson must be taken to heart that hard work, meticulous planning and preparation, as well as efficient execution are mandatory if success is to be achieved.

That project should begin immediately with a view to the next ICC Cricket (ODI) World Cup in four years' time. (Reprinted from Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Coach says fitness a priority as Guyana U-19 training camp commences

By Brandon Corlette

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ith the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Under-19 tournament looming, the Guyana U-19 team began their training camp on Monday last with 18 members encamped at the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence, La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara (ECD).

This reporter visited the camp at LBI earlier this week and spoke exclusively to one of the more successful youth coaches, Guyana U-19 Coach Julian Moore.

The confident Coach disclosed that the camp started properly on Tuesday morning with an indoor fitness session. The camp, which will conclude on Monday, July 22, 2019, is aiming to target the players holistically.

“Obviously, the fitness aspect is high on our agenda; we had a fitness test a week ago and the scores weren’t that promising,” Moore revealed.

He added that the

Eight Berbicians and 10 Demerara players are in the training squad

camp would get the fitness level up for the Guyana U-19 players.

Moore noted that the players would further be exposed to skill work and would gain match readiness. “We have two practice matches before the ending of the camp and definitely by Monday, we will be ready to go,”

Moore signalled.

The five-time OneDay title-winning Coach shared some sentiments on the 18-member squad that would be further reduced to a final 14 who would tour St Vincent and the Grenadians later this month.

“We have the basic squad that covers all the

areas – a variety of leftarm spinners, four fast bowlers, a few openers and middle-order batsmen,” he said.

This 18-member squad that is currently encamped includes nine players returning from last year. Moore pointed out that this has always been an important

aspect and management has spoken about this at the beginning of the camp.

“Having nine guys with previous regional U-19 experience in the team is pretty invaluable, not only for the experienced guys to go there and perform well for themselves, but their experience rubbing off on the newcomers,” Moore explained.

The Guyana U-19 team, who are aiming to clinch their sixth consecutive One-Day title at the Regional U-19 tournament, have had the luxury of welcoming players with previous regional experience.

The 2019 edition of the CWI regional U-19 tournament will be played in only the One-Day 50over format and the tournament will be hosted at the same venue that was home to the 2018 tournament.

Speaking on the conditions in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Moore revealed that a few pitches were a bit slow.

“They have a few pitches that will play nice and conducive for

batsmen, but then you have a few that will see the ball spin a lot,” Moore disclosed.

This Guyana U-19 squad includes four West Indies U-19 players selected in the training camp and Ashmead Nedd, the prospective captain, has already played an International Cricket Council (ICC) U-19 World Cup for West Indies. Along with Coach Moore, Andy Ramnarine is the team manager.

The Guyana U-19 training squad reads: Ashmead Nedd (returning from 2018); Kevlon Anderson (returning from 2018); Alex Algoo (returning from 2018); Adrian Hinds (returning from 2018); Yeudistir Persaud (returning from 2018); Kelvin Umroa (returning from 2018); Qumar Torrington (returning from 2018); Sachin Singh (returning from 2018); Junior Sinclair (returning from 2018); Dequan Bamfield; Alphius Bookie; Daniel Mootoo; Garfield Benjamin; Nigel Deodat; Robin Williams; Seon Glasgow; Joel Spooner and Leon Swammy.

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G

ary Stead, New Zealand's head coach, has suggested that the possibility of sharing the World Cup was something that "should be considered" after his side were denied in a heartbreaking finish at Lord's on Sunday. The teams could not be separated after 100 overs and also tied the Super Over, but England lifted the trophy after winning on boundary countback.

Having slept on the result, Kane Williamson described the manner in which the final was decided "a real shame".

New Zealand had further cause to be disappointed, after it transpired that England should almost certainly have only been awarded five overthrows, rather than six in the final over of regulation time.

"Make sense of it? I think that'll take quite a bit of time actually," Williamson said. "Such a fine line. May be the

WEEK ENDING JUly 21, 2019 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

worst part is there is so much you can't control in those situations and it still sort of even-tuates the way it did. All in all it was a real shame that the tournament was decided in the way it was after two teams went at it.

And two good teams were playing a cricket game, but it was still a tie.

Stead and Craig McMillan, New Zealand's batting coach, agreed that allowing England and the Black-caps to share the World Cup would have been an ideal finish.

Asked during a media interaction at the team hotel whether he would have preferred New Zealand being declared joint winners, Stead was open to the suggestion.

"Perhaps when you play over a seven-week period and can't be separated on the final day, that is something should be considered as well," Stead said. "But again that's one consideration over a whole lot of things

England's Jos Buttler runs out New Zealand's Martin Guptill to win the 2019 Cricket World Cup final between England and New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground in London on July 14, 2019. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)

that went on over the World Cup. Everything will be reviewed, and I think that it's a good time to do it now. But probably just let the dust settle for a while."

However, McMillan, whose contract finished with the World Cup, was

more straightforward, saying sharing the trophy would have been the "right thing" in contrast to the tie-breaker in the form of the Super Over, a rule adopted last year by the ICC. "It is not going to change yesterday's result. But what is prob-

Will MS Dhoni tour the West Indies?

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ver since India were knocked out of the World Cup, there has been widespread speculation around the future of MS Dhoni. Will he retire?

Will he be spoken to by the selectors?

The answer might come on July 19, when the five-member selection panel picks India's squads for the tour of the West Indies in AugustSeptember. The monthlong Caribbean tour is set to run from Au-gust 3 to September 4 and comprise three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests.

Dhoni's spot in the Indian team has been a source of constant debate in the last 12 months and inten-sified during the World Cup, during which even Sachin Tendulkar questioned the intent he showed during his innings against Afghanistan.

India captain Virat Kohli tried to douse the flames of the debate every time he was asked for his views, saying the dressing room retained full confidence in Dhoni.

ESPNcricinfo understands Dhoni has not

spoken about his future with the team management or selec-tors.

In addition to Dhoni, the selectors are also bound to manage the workloads of the key players, espe-cially strike bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. Bumrah was India's best bowler at the World Cup, and perhaps their joint-best player in terms of impact alongside Rohit

Sharma. Shami was India's second-highest wicket-taker behind Bumrah, with 14 wickets at an average of 13.78 and strike rate of 15.0, and was a constant threat with his pace and seam movement. He was rested from India's final group match against Sri Lanka and left out from the semi-final against New Zealand, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar preferred for his death

bowling and ability with the bat.

The selectors will also verify the fitness of Shikhar Dhawan and Vijay Shankar, who were both injured during the World Cup and had to leave the tournament midway.

Both players are currently at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, undergoing rehabilitation.

(ESPNCricinfo)

ably fair to say at the end of seven weeks in a big tournament like this, when you have two teams can't be separated after a 50-over match and then a Super Over and neither team did actually lose in many ways in terms of runs scored.

"Then perhaps sharing the trophy would be the right thing to do.

Wasn't to be yesterday, which we all are disappointed with. But it is sport and those were the rules."

There were a number of turning points during England's chase, with several occurring one after the other in the final half hour. The biggest was when Martin Guptill's return throw from deep midwicket hit the back of Ben Stokes' bat and ricocheted for four overthrows, thus reducing England's target to a mere three runs from two balls. The onfield umpires Kumar Dharmasena and Marais Erasmus con-sulted the TV umpire before declaring the six runs.

Subsequently, as reported by ESPNcricinfo, it seems England were actually wrongly awarded an extra run. Simon Taufel, a former ICC Elite Panel umpire, said the match officials had "goofed up". New Zealand remained unaware of exact wording of the rule even the day after.

Williamson said he trusted the match officials' word and refused to complain about how things turned out. "I actually wasn't aware of the finer rule at the point in time," Williamson said.

"Obviously you are trusting the umpires in what they do. You throw that into the mix of few hundred other things that

may have been different that we wouldn't be just talking about one thing.

"Two great campaigns. From our side of things, we are really proud of the ay the guys went about their business. And am sure the English were as well, they had a great campaign. It sort of showed we went toe-to-toe and it was the fine print that decided it."

Stead, too, tried hard to be realistic. He felt New Zealand could do nothing but accept their fate. He felt Super Over probably was currently the only way to pick a winner until the ICC devised a better so-lution.

"That is one," he said of the idea of having several Super Overs, again and again, until there's a winner. "I guess a valid way as well. The hard thing I find is a 50-over competition being decided on a one-over bout, just doesn't seem quite right, but then I don't write the rules.

That's the way it goes."

Both Stead and McMillan were confident the ICC would review whether the Super Over was indeed the best way to deal with the scenario like a tie in a World Cup final. But for New Zealand, as McMillan said, nothing would change now.

"Small margin this, isn't it? I don't know that rule to be perfectly honest. I have played a lot of games of cricket, watched a lot of cricket - overthrows have just been added to what has been run as opposed to the point of the throw coming in. So, again, it will be something that will be something debated, dis-cussed, but again it doesn't change the result." (ESPNCricinfo)

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