Guyana Times Saturday June 29, 2019

Guyoil reduces P gasoline price by $10

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Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3969

THE BEACON OF TRUTH saturday, june 29, 2019

PRICE

CCJ post-judgement advice

WHAT'S INSIDE:

No date set by President for meeting with Opposition Leader Page 3

…despite Jagdeo’s proposal to meet daily

GL&SC's Benn fails to address sale of part of Demerara River

...concedes identified tracts handed out; threatens whistleblowers Page 7 …as Land Administration Manager resigns

Berbice $200M model farm abandoned

$80 vat included

Page 15

BV farmers bemoan blocked drainage P15 …overgrown shrubbery, stagnant water causing distress

Prison officer charged for taking ganja into Camp Street Prison P10

Murdered female taxi driver

P15

GTT claims phone records already handed over to Police

Ranger slapped with cocaine trafficking P8 charge

…project waste of taxpayers’ money – Regional Chairman

US Ambassador appeals to PSC to help Govt fight corruption Page 9

...says linked to high energy cost, taxes, lack of transparency

PSC calls for swift resolution to political issues

P2

…as new Executive elected

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

PSC calls for swift resolution to political issues …as new Executive elected

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utgoing Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Desmond Sears on Friday underscored the importance of Government and the Opposition working together to swiftly resolve the

political issues affecting the nation, as the Commission’s Annual General Meeting opened at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown.

Although he noted that the current political climate is not “large-

ly” affecting businesses, he called for a speedy resolution of the matters relating to the Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ’s) ruling, which includes the Head of State, David Granger meeting with Opposition

Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo to appoint a new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to allow for polls to be held here soon.

The former Private Sector Commission Chairman remains cautiously optimistic that the political directorate will come to some compromise, adding that it is a given that everyone agrees that there needs be fresh elections in which case the people of Guyana and investors alike are, therefore, hopeful that political stability will be maintained until such time.

The business climate, he said, with the exception of oil and gas related activities, will remain largely unaffected by political circumstance.

“I, therefore, wish to take this opportunity to urge our political leaders to resolve these issues of national importance in a swift manner and in the best interest of Guyana,” he added.

The former Chairman said that political instability is known to affect growth

through physical and human capital accumulation.

As a consequence, Sears pointed out, “It is of paramount importance that a situation of political instability or crisis be averted at all costs. These situations dampen investors’ confidence and private investments become slump or stagnated”.

He reminded that such situations also weaken the country from an international perspective, something which he believes can be resolved at the polls.

New executives

Meanwhile, at the Commission’s 27th AGM, Captain Gerald Gouveia was elected as the new Chairman of the PSC. The new Vice Chairman of the Private Sector body is Komal Singh and Secretary, Ramesh Dookhoo. In addition, Ramesh Persaud was elected to function as Treasurer for the PSC. At Monday’s post-judgement hearing, CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders urged that

President David Granger meet with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to come up with a consensus on the way forward and as such, postponed the date to issue consequential orders on the No-Confidence Motion to July 12, 2019.

Following the June 18 rulings, CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders urged the two sides to meet to find a consensus before last Monday’s hearing for consequential orders.

However, Granger sent an invitation to the Opposition Leader on Friday for them to meet after Monday’s hearing.

Jagdeo, a former Head of State himself, has already expressed his willingness to meet with the President. In fact, he said he is prepared to meet with Granger “at any time and on a daily basis if needs be”.

This comes on the heels of the CCJ ruling that the unilateral appointment of the GECOM Chairman, retired Justice James Patterson, was flawed and unconstitutional.

news

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Saturday, June 29 – 02:00h and 14:30h-16:00h and Sunday, June 30 – 02:30h and 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, June 29 – 14:10h-15:40h and Sunday, June 30 – 15:00h-16:30h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers will prevail during the day and the evening interrupted by sunny intervals in the early to late afternoon hours.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.022 metres.

High Tide: 14:03h reaching a maximum height of 2.39 metres.

Low Tide: 07:34h and 19:53h reaching minimum heights of 0.77 metre and 0.81 metre.

wednesday, JUNE 26, 2019

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CCJ post-judgement advice

No date set by President for meeting with Opposition Leader …despite Jagdeo’s proposal to meet daily

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everal days after Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo accepted an invitation from President David Granger to meet and discuss a consensus on the way forward following the recent rulings of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), a date is yet to be set by the Head of State for the much-anticipated engagement.

On Friday the President acknowledged Jagdeo’s response to his invitation.

Opposition Chief Whip and executive member, Gail Teixeira told Guyana Times that an acknowledgement letter from the President’s office was received on Friday afternoon with no indication as to a possible date for a meeting.

“I can tell you that it doesn’t have a date. [It’s just an acknowledgement of Jagdeo’s response] and raising an issue of interpretation but we’ll probably release the letter when we release the response at the same time…,” she stated.

According to Teixeira, the party will be considering the correspondence and hopefully respond to the Head of State over the weekend.

Following the June 18 rulings that the December passage of the Opposition’s No-Confidence Motion was valid and that the unilateral appointment of ret’d Justice James Patterson as the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was unconstitutional, CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders had urged the two sides to meet to find consensus before last Monday’s hearing for consequential orders.

However, President David Granger sent an invitation to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Friday, June 21, 2019, for them to meet after Monday’s hearing.

But during that hearing, Justice Saunders expressed disappointment that the two leaders were yet to meet.

“These matters are of the highest constitutional significance… and it beats me that the Leader of the Opposition and the President, and their respective counsel, had not met to discuss the issues that confront us. Everybody says these are important issues but it seems as though the same degree of urgency and deliberation that are expected of the courts, we don’t see them being reflected in the behaviour of the political directorate and that I think is unfortunate,” the CCJ President expressed.

In fact, he went on to note that the case puts the court in an “awkward position” since it does not want to make political decisions but at the same time it has a remit to ensure that the rule of law is observed. This, Justice Saunders noted, however, can only happen if

Opposition Jagdeo

Leader

Bharrat

the political leaders display a spirit of compromise and reasonableness, which will allow the rule of law to take effect.

The CCJ President’s comments were made after Attorney General Basil Williams misled the court by saying that President Granger had acted “forthwith” and invited the Opposition Leader to a meeting.

However, at a press conference after Monday’s hearing, Jagdeo called out the AG for deliberately misleading the CCJ. According to Jagdeo, a letter was indeed dispatched to his office but states that he was being invited for a meeting after the June 24 consequential ruling with no date or time indicated.

Nevertheless, a response letter was sent to the Head of State last Tuesday indicating that Jagdeo is prepared to meet with the President “at any time, and, on a daily basis if needs be”. Despite this, however, no date has been set to discuss the appointment of a new GECOM Chairman following the resignation of Justice Patterson earlier this week.

The Opposition Leader told reporters at a press conference on Thursday that he needs to meet with the President first to ascertain the “ground rules” on the way forward, that is, whether they will consider nominees from the 18 names that were previously rejected or

President David Granger

come up with a new list altogether. Jagdeo said that he is willing to sit with the President and compile such a list for the purpose of having consensus even though the Constitution requires him to submit a list.

Meanwhile, there have been calls from stakeholders for the two leaders to adhere to the CCJ’s advice and meet before the July 12 hearing so as to avoid having the Trinidad-based regional court impose consequential orders.

Onus on President

Also weighing in on the issue on Friday was former Minister Leslie Ramsammy, who criticised President Granger for not initiating the meeting to date, saying the onus is on him to do so.

“The CCJ, after one week, met with the stakeholders and gave another almost three weeks for dialogue and hopefully avoid consequential orders from the CCJ. No such dialogue has occurred, even five days after the CCJ extended the dialogue period, and now more than two weeks since the rulings. It is an open, brazen contempt for the CCJ,” Ramsammy contended.

The former Minister noted that silence by the Government on a date for the meeting loudly signifies their defiance of the CCJ. He went on to dismiss arguments that the President and the coalition Government have initiat-

ed consequential actions by having Patterson stepping down, pointing out that the former GECOM Chair was, in fact, fired by the CCJ and Guyana’s Constitution.

“Patterson was not comfortable in personally dissing the CCJ. That Patterson walked has nothing to do with Granger and APNU/ AFC complying with the CCJ’s rulings,” he stressed.

N e v e r t h e l e s s , Ramsammy sounded a call for those who stand for “true democracy” to speak up and ensure the President meets with the Opposition Leader.

“As of this time and per the problem we face, the Leader of the Opposition and the PPP have shown patience and their readiness to engage Granger and APNU/ AFC. The time is now for all stakeholders to demand Granger meet with the Leader of the Opposition to select a GECOM Chair, even if an interim Chair, and to decide on an election date sooner than later, keeping in mind the constitutional requirement of three months, which expired since March 21st. The three months timeline has to be a non-negotiable timeline since the Government has already run down the clock and illegally held on to power for more than three months already. We must call a spade a spade. Granger and APNU/ AFC dissed the Parliament and the Constitution, dissed the Chief Justice and the High Court and now is dissing the CCJ,” Ramsammy posited.

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guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

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

Meaningfully engaging our youth

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n a matter of days, another academic school year will come to an end. At the moment, most of the students across Guyana have completed their End-of-Term tests and are awaiting their results. Once this process is completed, schools will be officially closed for an extended period of two months. This means that children will have a lot of time on their hands and should, therefore, be encouraged to utilise this time in a constructive manner.

During this period, parents are faced with the challenge of finding activities, whether they are academic or recreational, etc, for their children to be involved in. There are many different ways in which our young people could effectively utilise their time wisely. Some students who have not done so well during the past year or perhaps those who encounter difficulties in a particular subject area could use the time to do remedial academic work to catch up with the rest of their peers.

Some of the more mature students also choose to take up work-study opportunities, where they get a taste of what the world of work has to offer. There are also those who go off to ‘summer camps’ hosted by religious/youth groups or other organisations including the Government-sponsored programmes. These provide an opportunity for youths to interact with their peers and engage in extracurricular activities which would help them become well-rounded individuals.

When persons are not fully occupied with doing positive and uplifting things, they tend to fall by the wayside, most times to their own detriment. Many would agree that many of our young people are falling prey to the use and trafficking of illicit drugs and engaging in criminal activities, in the process completely destroying their lives and the great future they could have had if better choices were made and the necessary support systems were put in place to ensure their proper upbringing.

It is being said that institutions such as the family and religious groups need to take up their roles more seriously as happened before. Historically, the older generation had managed to transmit their beliefs, values, traditions, customs and institutions to the younger members of their societies and had contributed in some way to their disciplined upbringing. This was achieved largely owing to the impact of agencies of socialisation, such as the family, religious organisations, and the schools to a large extent.

Today, the impact of these institutions has been challenged and undermined by new forces, particularly television and the Internet, and pop culture as a whole.

We believe that if our adolescents are to move from the less mature and irresponsible ways of thinking and acting to making more mature and responsible judgements and engaging in activities that are the hallmark of a socially productive adulthood, certain support systems must be provided. In addition to the various interventions which the Government should make, there are numerous organisations including those in the Private Sector, which could rise to the occasion and contribute more towards saving our youth population. They need to come on board and sponsor programmes that would see our children and young people become well-equipped with the necessary skills to develop themselves and the society as a whole. Coordinating and sponsoring such programmes during the ‘summer break’ when children are away from school for a long period is a good way to start.

Successful programmes typically incorporate specific components, such as providing a sense of belonging, promoting a supportive relationship with adults, and affording opportunities to enhance decision-making and leadership skills.

Further, sport could also play a very important role in bringing the youth population back on track so that they could interact with their peers and elders in a more meaningful and dignified manner. There is need to revive many of the non-functional sport groups/centres in communities as the lack of access to such facilities makes it more challenging to engage youths.

The idea is for young people to be meaningfully engaged in activities that they could gain something positive from. It is well accepted that those who have achieved success in life or have gone on to do great things are the ones who have utilised their time wisely.

A sculpture of Guyana’s mighty jaguar is being exhibited at the fourth Visual Arts Competition & Exhibition, which is being hosted at Castellani House (DPI photo)

OAS: Venezuelan migration may become world’s largest by 2020

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he Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world, according to a special working group of the Organisation of American States (OAS).

The group’s projection puts the exodus between 7.5 million and 8.2 million in 2020, far surpassing the 6.7 million people who in eight years have fled Syria.

“It’s not an economic or a voluntary migration,” said David Smolansky, an exiled Venezuelan politician who presented the final report with Harvard University economist Dany Bahar to the OAS assembly on Friday. “It’s a forced migration.”

The projections were previously released as part of the group’s preliminary report in March, but on Friday OAS representatives, pointing to the report, appealed to the international community for more support in addressing the growing number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees.

The United Nations estimates that four million people have already left Venezuela in recent years, fleeing hyperinflation, violence and scarcity of medicine and food as the country descends deeper into a catastrophic collapse. The wave of displaced Venezuelans has already stoked tension and instability in South American countries, and the prospective doubling of the total exodus in the next 18 months raises grim prospects for the region’s future.

It is part of a global problem. The UN has said there are more people displaced today than at any time since the global body’s founding in

Venezuelan migrants walk after crossing the border from Ecuador into Peru [File: Martin Mejia/AP Photo]

the aftermath of World War II. Yet the OAS report showed that international funding for a response to the Venezuelan crisis lags behind other crises. While aid dollars per Syrian refugee hit US$5000 in 2018, for Venezuela it sits at two per cent of that figure, just US$100 per displaced person. The UN’s 2019 response plan for the Venezuelan migration has only been 21 per cent funded.

“Help and financing to the host countries and communities is crucial,” Bahar told the OAS assembly.

“There is still a lot left to be done by the international community to complement the efforts that host countries have made.”

The strain of the arrivals has recently driven some South American nations to clamp down on entry access for Venezuelans. Peru and Chile tightened restrictions on Venezuelans while Ecuador instituted a similar move that was blocked by its high court.

Those moves leave more Venezuelans stuck in Colombia, which shares the longest border with Venezuela and already hosts 1.3 million displaced Venezuelans, more than any other country.

OAS says Venezuela is the region’s top priority

“The position of the Government of Colombia has been one of openness, but we need for this to be a regional process,” said Felipe Muñoz, Colombia’s border manager, presidentially appointed to respond to the crisis. “Little by little we are becoming the only country free of restrictions.”

The number of migrants and refugees has severely strained public services, enrolling children in school, seeking basic healthcare and overwhelming the ability of migration agencies to register every new arrival.

Thousands of Venezuelan families sleep on the streets across Colombia, begging for their daily food. Up to a thousand every day travel the long mountain highways on foot, searching for opportunity elsewhere in the continent.

“There is no doubt that eight million Venezuelan migrants in the region would be unsustainable for the recipient countries,” said Ivan Briscoe, Latin America director for the International Crisis Group, noting that he only thought the migration would reach that figure by next year’s end if Venezuela “suffers a

total meltdown”.

For now, the crisis has no end in sight, with President Nicolás Maduro maintaining his grip on power despite international pressure and outcry. Political Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó raised the hopes of some in January when he declared himself interim President and promised to unseat Maduro, but since then he has proven unable to wrangle any real power.

Briscoe said that millions more migrants in Latin America could push regional governments towards a more forceful approach to affect political change in Venezuela. He also noted that US sanctions since early 2019 have contributed to the ever-deepening economic downfall of that once-wealthy nation, although the origins of the Venezuelan crisis long predate US sanctions on the general economy there.

Pilin Leon, a representative for a coalition of Venezuelan migrants at the OAS, said she saw no reason the flow of people from her country would slow any time soon. Her group implored nations to adopt policies that would allow Venezuelans the freedom to resettle far beyond Colombia, to work legally and to access health-care and education for their children.

“In Venezuela, it isn’t a formally declared war, but there is a situation of violence in the streets of all the cities,” she said. “Our situation is one of displacement that deserves legal recognition as a refugee population.” (Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

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

GL&SC press conference was nothing else but a decoy Dear Editor, Obfuscation surrounds the statement from the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC), Mr Trevor Benn, who at a press conference on Friday assured the nation that he was not personally involved in any corrupt land transactions.

But is that the point? Former President Bharrat Jagdeo highlighted some serious issues with regards to the mad haste to transfer State lands using the machinery of the GL&SC after the passage of the No-Confidence Motion

on December 21, 2018. His statements are principally against the political influence on the leadership of the GL&SC and how it is being used to allow people who are using their official positions to influence personal gains for themselves.

Transparency International defines such a practice plainly and simply - corruption.

The person Mr Jagdeo seems to be holding singularly accountable for the state of affairs on these shady land transfers is Mr Granger. So I see no reason for Mr Benn to get hot under the collar.

At best, Mr Benn should have come with his maps, his dates and his facts to help Mr Granger prove Mr Jagdeo incorrect and this he did not do. Rather, he totally skirts around the crux of the matter in a clandestine effort to play down and distort what Mr Jagdeo is saying. And for dessert, he took the opportunity to inject politics into the matter which unfortunately placed Mr Benn in a political position. Is Mr Benn, who was a former senior leader in the YSM, the youth arm of the PNC, reverting to his old role and has he decided

to throw professionalism to the wind?

It is extremely important to this nation that Mr Benn refute all of these claims by Mr Jagdeo factually, item by item in a surgical fashion. Nothing else but countering evidence-based facts will remove the perception now that the decision-making process at the GL&SC is corrupt. So this smokescreen of calling in the police is not helping Mr Benn, rather it illustrates a feature in many Governments of Guyana when caught in a corruption probe, they put on

Inaction by President Granger

Dear Editor, A vote for David Granger and his coalition in 2015 was touted as a “vote for change” and indeed, there have been changes in the Administration of Government of Guyana.

A major change has been the levelling of corruption charges based on evidence.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo has used the constitutional office of Leader of the Opposition to transform the previous culture of allegations based on innuendo or anecdote. When in office, the PPP/C often replied to allegations with requests for evidence. Given a chance to prosecute many of these claims made while in Opposition, the Granger Administration has fallen woefully short of credible.

The sale of land for housing at less than market value at Sparendaam and a mix-up about the inclusion of the purchase of law reports in an employment contract speaks more to political witchhunts than serious corruption.

We are now in the ear of evidence-based allegations, with files and complaints being filed at various law enforcement agencies, whistleblowers have emerged in every sector of the public service and from across the political spectrum to

provide tangible proof of wrongdoing. Names, dates, documents, images, file numbers, specificity to the nth degree.

As interesting as this phenomenon is, a pattern emerges after the response.

Following allegations, there is a period of total silence which lasts for seven to seventeen days. During this period, the claims are pushed with vigour by media, corruption watchdogs and political activists. If the hue and cry dies down, we never get an explanation as with claims of verbal abuse of a constable by Annette Ferguson and the requested release of an unlicensed motorcycle rider in August 2018. However, when allegations do persist, the public is then treated to an ‘explanation’. These are not accompanied by policy documents, paper trails or any other exculpatory evidence. For example, the bizarre case of the payment of US$9000 into David Patterson’s personal account has not been attended by any paperwork.

Patterson has repeatedly avoided explaining how a Chinese company got his personal bank account details; short of it being printed on the back of his business card, there is no plausible explanation, nor has Patterson provided pa-

per evidence to demonstrate repatriation of the “travel expenses” to MARAD. Take my word for it, this is not an option preferred by taxpayers.

There is also the denial of allegations based on specificity. Winston Jordan denied receiving a “US$20 million” signing bonus. His defence when the truth came out was a lame excuse that the actual bonus is “US$18 million”. Eric Philips denied receiving “3000 acres” of land. Now that the evidence has come to light of a grant of “2000 acres” with probable cause to believe there may be more revelations of additional acreages allocated, there is no doubt Phillips will rely on the ‘Jordan’ defence.

There are other minor patterns that show the Granger Administration lacks moral and ethical direction from top to bottom; acceptance of paid travel and lack of policy directing

courses of action.

The clearest and most damming pattern is of the inaction by President Granger when faced with irrefutable evidence. His Excellency’s ability to turn his face from black and white realities is remarkable if only for its consistency. He is the rock upon which his corrupt Ministers stand, on drug bonds, on D’Urban Park, on the Harbour Bridge, on downsized but increased priced airport renovations, contracts for family and friends. More and more of the Cabinet clamber onto the safety of Granger’s rock, seemingly not noticing that it is sinking inexorably into the quicksand of corruption. We are into the silence again and David Granger is experiencing that sinking feeling, and his fear of facing the electorate is palpable.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

their battle fatigues and in the most gruesome fashion, commences a cover-up operation by blaming all and sundry but themselves for the financial and administrative skulduggery unearthed. So if Mr Benn wants to help Mr Granger, he better get down to work or shut up.

In the final analysis, Mr Benn’s press conference was nothing else but a decoy that causes the facts to be lost in a scramble to get his points over without competently addressing the issues raised

by Mr Jagdeo. It is unfortu-

nately that Mr Jagdeo’s information had to be met with disinformation by Mr Benn since Guyana is now forced to choose sides based on the information in the public domain and from the way it is being assessed, Mr Jagdeo’s information with his maps and dates is more authentic than Mr Benn, who came to the press conference totally unprepared.

I expected better from Mr Benn.

Sincerely, Lisa Ally

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

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Foundation

…mastering these tips will affect your grandchild’s mental health and identity

By Leslie SchweitzerMiller, MD

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s a new grandparent, a lot of things can feel out of your control. But how you adapt to your new role and adjust to the new chain of command is within your control and will determine how this potentially wonderful chapter in your life unfolds.

Of course, you’ll have no choice but to accept that, yes, you’re that old. On the other hand, if you play your cards right, the relationship with your grandchild will more than compensate. And, Grandma and Grandpa, this isn’t only about you.

Mastering the art of grandparenting matters because it will affect your grandchild’s psychological health, identity, and the kind of person they become.

Resolve past conflicts One of the keys to your lifelong success as a grandparent is addressing any issues you’ve had with the parents of your grandchild or they’ve had with you. Clearing away the remnants of bad feelings will facilitate your opportunity to establish a healthy relationship with your grandchild.

Take stock of any grievances, prejudices, or jealousies. It’s never too soon or too late to try to resolve past conflicts. From major fault lines to insignificant cracks, your goal should be putting things in perspective and making peace, because that’s fundamental to being part of your grandchild’s life and, as they grow older, modelling healthy relationships for them.

“My daughter-in-law has always had a lot of rules for me,” Emily said, “and I resented her attitude. Then the little guy came along. Once I held him in my arms, I knew I had to make a choice.

These days I smile whether I agree or not because I don’t want her to have any excuse to keep me away from my grandson. He was about three the day we were walking up the stairs from the basement when he suddenly reached for my hand. ‘I’m not holding your hand because I need to,’ he announced proudly. ‘I’m holding your hand because I love you.’ Moments like that make all my tongue biting worth it.”

Respect your children’s rules The arrival of a child often causes tectonic shifts in what was

familiar terrain. It can be difficult to accept that you suddenly have to play by your children’s rules. Whether it’s your daughter, son, step-daughter, step-son, daughter-in-law or son-in-law, your new position dictates that you follow their lead. Even when your grandchild is at your house, there’s no benefit in pretending otherwise. You’re not the final authority anymore. Your kids and their spouses – your grandchild’s parents—will have their particular opinions, viewpoints, systems, and styles. Let them have the last word on the boundaries set for their child.

Twenty-first-century parenting is different than even a generation ago. Information comes from Google, social media, and online support groups. Your advice may be thought of as old-fashioned, and maybe it is. A wise grandparent makes a conscious effort to respect new, unfamiliar ideas and treads lightly. Your reassurance is likely to be appreciated. Let the new parents know you remember and understand how scary it is, how tired they are, and that every good, concerned new parent feels just the way they do. If you can help them relax a little by being a calm presence, the baby will be calmer. And right from the start, your grandchild is the beneficiary of your wisdom.

Don’t let your ego get in the way Your ego – the part of your mind responsible for your sense of self-esteem –may feel slighted or diminished if your words don’t carry the weight they once did. The new reality may mean adjusting your expectations. When and if you offer advice, don’t lobby.

Better yet, wait to be asked.

Research shows that when a grandparent holds a grandchild for the first time they are flooded with oxytocin, the “love hormone”, just as a new mother is when nursing. This hints that the grandchild-grandparent bond is important. It’s also important to recognise that you are now the Chief Operating Officer, not the Chief Executive. You have to accept it, make the best of it, and keep your eye on the prize. Your grandchildren need you in their lives.

A study conducted by Oxford University and the Institute of Education found that children are generally happier, and the effects of adverse life events like parental separation and illness are buffered, if grandparents are involved in their upbringing. In ad-

dition, a grandparent provides a link to the past and helps in the formation of a grandchild’s identity and sense of self.

My patient, Maggie, was the first daughter of two busy corporate Attorneys. Her four older brothers teased and belittled her to the point that she gave up trying to learn anything. “Grandma Sarah saved me,” she said, the week before being awarded her PhD. “She’d sit on the floor with me for hours and play games I’d never tried to learn. I thought I was too stupid. She was patient and encouraging, and I didn’t feel anxious learning something new. I started to believe in myself because she believed I could do anything if I tried hard enough.”

Learning to be a grandparent and adapting to that new role isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth the effort. (psychologytoday.com)

Paper plate marble run

By Sarah Dees

W

e just can’t get enough of marble tracks at our house! I almost bought the boys a nice wooden set last Christmas, but I’m so glad I didn’t! Making our own has been more fun, and it’s different every time! Last year, we made a marble run with paper towel tubes and other items from the recycle bin, and this summer we made one out of pool noodles.

When I saw the “marble coaster” idea in the Family Fun magazine, I knew we had to try it! They used rims cut from paper plates to make the track. What a genius idea!

The magazine says to cut the rims off some paper plates. Then, create a track design by using paper towel rolls as supports. They cut their first support at 0.5 inch, then 1 inch, then 1.5 inches, etc. They used glue dots to attach the supports to the track.

Well, we didn’t have any glue dots (we’ve never tried those, actually – are we missing out?) and we only had one paper towel roll which Owen partially ruined by cutting while I was working on the plates. So, we supplemented with supports built from wooden blocks.

Note: The first plates I bought did not work. The plain white plates don’t have a rim that works for a track. Look for plates with a design on them and a smooth rim around the edge.

The verdict? It was a LOT of fun! The track was a little tricky to set up, but we easily compensated for our steeper track by adding “guard rails” made from paper plate rims turned the opposite way. We also added a jar lid at the bottom to catch the marble so that it wouldn’t roll onto the floor where our newlycrawling baby could get it. This was not an independent activity for little ones. I used hot glue to attach the sections of track and to attach it to the few cardboard supports that we had. We didn’t attach the track at all to the block supports. However, once the track was made, Owen (age 3) enjoyed rolling the marble down over and over while exclaiming, “It works!”

To make the set-up easier, I would try building from the bottom up. Also, the less steep the track is, the easier it will be to keep the marble under control.

The next day, Aidan added on to the original track, and Dad helped him to make a more exciting layout!

This layout is not attached to any supports – it’s just resting on block towers! Aidan had a blast, but Owen couldn’t play with it without ruining it…

So, to sum it all up: The paper towel roll marble run wins for cost – we didn’t have to buy anything for it. However, it probably required the most time and parent help.

The pool noodle marble run wins for ease of set-up. The kids can do this one totally by themselves other than the initial slicing of the pool noodles. But, we had to buy the pool noodles (not a big expense, however).

The paper plate marble run is less work for mom or dad than the paper towel roll option. It’s also cheap to make, and the curved plate track pieces lend themselves to really exciting layouts.

Aidan says he likes them all equally well. So there you have it!

news

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

GL&SC's Benn fails to address sale of part of Demerara River ...concedes identified tracts handed out; threatens whistleblowers …as Land Administration Manager resigns

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ollowing recent revelations of massive land grabbing by officials and associates of the APNUfraction of the coalition Government, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC), Trevor Benn, failed to address the giveaway of prime lands on the Demerara River foreshore, which are expected to bring massive benefits to the recipients from the coming oil boom.

On Thursday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had revealed that there seemed to be a rush to give out prime lands at strategic locations where there lies possibility

GL&SC CEO Trevor Benn

they were given, but because their names were mentioned (Thursday), some of these

at Bohemia, Berbice; which is the proposed site for the much touted deep water harbour project as well as possible shore base facilities.

It was explained that the application was filed since 2004 in the name of Charles Ceres et al (and others), including Lowenfield. Benn said that no title was issued for that particular land.

“When I got here and I saw the application, I insisted that it must be issued.

I don’t know what kept it back. I couldn’t determine that. There was nothing stopping me from issuing the title and I did. Unfortunately, on that specific land, it turned out that a number of persons

Map 1 of Best Foreshore

to develop shore based facilities. In fact, he disclosed that 50 acres along the western foreshore of the Demerara River, as well as 40 acres in the river itself— also toward the western side— were given away.

However, at a press conference on Friday to respond to the Opposition Leader’s revelations, the GL&SC CEO did not address the giveaways in the Demerara River. He explained that he was only responding to claims of persons whom he received permission to provide clarity.

“I think it’s unethical for me to discuss the names of our clients and the land

ing at Liliendaal, which was given to the engineer.

Further, speaking with reporters, Ceres sought to clear the air and explained that the 4.5 acres at Liliendaal, together with 1297 acres in the Canje Creek, were awarded to him under the previous administration. The latter land, he noted, has since been relinquished.

The GL&SC Head claimed that he had nothing to do with the approval of lands to Advisor at the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARA), Eric Phillips.

It was alleged that 1000 acres was issued to Phillips in the Essequibo River back in April and another 1000

Further responding to queries about whether these prime locations were earmarked for any specific development projects, the GL&SC Head admitted that while there are land for various uses, those uses change over time.

Manager resigns

Former GL&SC Land Administration Manager Michael Hutson

Ministry of the Presidency, Marlon Bristol, who in addi-

Meanwhile, it was revealed at Friday’s press conference that the Manager of the Land Administration Division at GL&SC, Michael Hutson, had resigned.

Asked whether there was any link between the Manager’s resignation and these revelations, Benn said, “I don’t want to link the two”.

Map 2 of Best Foreshore

people called and give me authority to speak on their behalf,” Benn stated.

Jagdeo had revealed that Saratu Phillips was a common name in those leases and when contacted on Friday to ascertain the purpose of the land acquisition and plans for usage, Phillips asked Guyana Times to return the call at a later time but subsequent efforts to reach him again were futile.

Concedes

Meanwhile, Benn went on to address the land issued to Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield for lands

were squatting and we have since taken action to cancel that lease for 1000 acres,” the GL&SC Head noted, while adding that this cancellation process started several months ago.

On this note, he disclosed that Lowenfield had since requested alternative land and that process has commenced.

Jagdeo had flagged the allotment of lands to the Chief Elections Officer as “very worrying”, especially with elections looming.

Nevertheless, Benn then turned his attention to the revelations on Ceres, claiming that there was only a small portion of land remain-

acres in the Demerara River.

However, Phillips on Friday claimed that he applied for those land for commercial use since 2013 but his application was not found until 2015.

With regards to the claims of allocations to a former PNC parliamentarian and his relatives of over 10,000 acres in the Pomeroon River, which were issued recently, Benn noted that both cases of 2912 acres to Muriel Allen and 6,400 acres to the ex-MP were awards granted by a Court order.

Among the beneficiaries Jagdeo had named was the Head of the Project Management Office at the

tion to land at Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara, also received prime lands at Bohemia and Dalalwala in Linden.

According to the CEO of GL&SC, Bristol did indeed apply for the land and it was issued to him.

These two locations were some of the prime spots which Jagdeo had mentioned that were identified for major developments including shore base. However, when asked whether there were any indications by the recipient that those prime lands given out were to be used for any oil related activities, Benn responded in the negative.

Furthermore, the Lands and Surveys CEO could not confirm whether the resignation is linked to a recent transfer of leased lands without the Commission’s knowledge.

Threats to whistleblowers

Benn has since said that the Police have been notified about what he claimed to be “stolen” documents which were leaked to several persons, including the Office of the Opposition Leader. He threatened that the staff, if caught leaking information, would be dealt with “condignly”.

8 News

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Ranger slapped with cocaine trafficking charge

T

hirty-two-year-old Shiva Balroop, who was on Wednesday allegedly found with 22 grams of cocaine in his possession, was granted bail by Magistrate Esther Sam when he appeared at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

The prosecution is contending that on June 26, 2019, at Walton Hall, Essequibo Coast, Balroop had 22 grams of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. He denied the charge and after a successful application, he was released on $15,000 bail.

It was reported that on the day in question, Police received a tip-off and initiated a sting operation. Balroop, who is attached to the Region Two

Land ahoy!!...

The cocaine that was allegedly found at the ranger’s home

Administration as a ranger, was arrested after Police swooped down on

his home and allegedly found the illegal substance.

Kitty resident fined for threatening elderly man

A

24-year-old Kitty, Georgetown resident was on Friday fined after admitting to a threatening language charge.

Terrence Thomas, a bond clerk, appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The charge detailed that on June 1, 2019, at Lot

137 Lamaha Street, Kitty, Georgetown, he used threatening language towards Keith McKenzie.

Thomas admitted to the charge and explained to the court that he committed the act since the victim, an elderly man, proposed a sexual relationship with him.

“He told me if I deh with

he, he gon do all kind of things to me,” the defendant told the court.

The prosecution case revealed that both the defendant and Virtual Complainant reside at the same address but have different dwelling places. It further stated that the duo was on speaking terms but

that ended when the defendant’s girlfriend damaged the VC’s property. She was later charged and sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment. This led to bad blood between the duo. Thomas was fined $10,000. Failure to pay the fine will result in him serving two weeks in prison.

Mason charged for robbing minibus passengers

T

wenty-three-year-old Alfred Taylor landed himself before the Court of law after he allegedly robbed two passengers in a minibus in which

he too was a passenger.

The mason appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday after he was slapped with two counts of robbery.

The first charge alleged that on June 27, 2019 at Stabroek Market, he robbed Keith James of a Samsung cellular phone, a silver band, and cash which amounted to

Charged: Alfred Taylor

a total of $116,000.

It was also alleged that the Lot 7 Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara (WBD) resident on the same date and location robbed Akash Persaud of a Samsung cellular phone valued $37,000.

In Court on Friday, Taylor denied the charges when they were read to him

by Magistrate Leron Daly.

Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh informed the Court that Taylor entered a Route 47 minibus (Back Road, East and West Ruimveldt route), in which the Virtual Complainants were seated.

Shortly after, Taylor began firing several lashes at the victims and demanded that they handed over their belongings, after which he exited the bus and made his escape from the bus park.

According to the prosecution’s case, the victims raised an alarm and public-spirited persons managed to have chased and caught Taylor and handed him over to the Police. The Police conducted a search on Taylor and the stolen items were recovered. Magistrate Daly released the mason on $80,000 bail for each of the charges. The case will continue on August 2, 2019.

W

…for PNC cronies hen Columbus stumbled across the West Indies while searching for India, he started the largest land grab in the history of mankind. As soon as he spied a piece of land, he jumped off his ship, stuck a flag into the ground, and claimed even continents for the Queen of Spain. It would appear that the PNC’s giving ole Columbus a run for his money in the acquisition of land by fiat – but here, for their cronies and camp followers.

Imagine, two of the biggies in SARA – Phillips and Retemeyer – who’re supposed to RECOVER state resources, have been caught with their pants down doing the dirty in the land grab. Do these fellas have no shame for spending the last 4 years going after Jagdeo and some Govt officials for PURCHASING house lots at Pradoville II totalling 12 acres – when they were awarded THOUSANDS OF ACRES for peanuts?? Phillips, in particular, has been bitterly complaining about the PPP giving away the “patrimony” of Guyana. Is it now okay for him to be getting that patrimony in the form of 2000 acres of land, and not the African Guyanese constituency he claims to represent?? Or is this “reparation” for his service to the PNC’s cause?

And look at what kind of lands!! 80 acres at Bohemia to one Bristol, Project Director in the Ministry of the Presidency. Bohemia, dear readers, is right off the mouth of the Berbice River, a stone’s throw from the Berbice Bridge, and smack in the middle of where any refinery or gasfired generator plant would be located. Can you imagine the BILLIONS these lands will soon be worth?? Now, these lands abut the Atlantic Ocean, and their rights extend to the foreshore, the extent of the land exposed at low tide.

Another crony actually was given 20 acres of foreshore at Schoonord, next to the present Demerara Harbour Bridge, and another 20 acres at Goed Fortuin. Note that these are lands extending into the River!! Can the fishermen still dock their boats? These two plots are on either side of the proposed new DHB, which is to be located at Versailles, and you can imagine the inflation in the worth of those lands within five years. Additionally, now that the downstream eastern bank of the Demerara River is all sold out for support services to the oil industry, those lands on the western bank will now be in demand.

It’s almost an anti-climax to learn that some 10,000 acres were doled out to some “ex-PNC” MP in the Pomeroon. All the rest were tied in to the oil boom.

Is it that there’s been a new oil find off the Essequibo?? …and strategically placed When someone from within a company uses knowledge gleaned from their insider position to trade in stocks, they’re breaking the law against “insider trading”. And in addition to massive punitive fines, they face some serious jail time! But what about folks in Government who’re privy to confidential info and then use it for their personal gains?

Like if you know a refinery’s gonna be built at a certain spot and you buy the spot, which you can then resell for a massive profit?

Well, in the land of capitalism -- the US -- the Government deals with this possibility in its code of ethics for government workers. And right up front, this declares bluntly: “An employee may not use his official position, including information learned by virtue of his position, for his personal benefit or for the benefit of others.” And of course this brings us to the situation where all sorts of government employees – described above -- were caught being granted swathes of land right into where the oil industry will be expanding.

Fit them with orange jump suits!! …for one group They say patriotism is the last resort of “scoundrels”.

But how do you describe the government insider, caught with his pants down on the land deals, who resorts to “racial victimhood”??

Racial instigator?

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

9 US Ambassador appeals to PSC to help Govt fight corruption news

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

...says linked to high energy cost, taxes, lack of transparency

tems to cope with the blackouts,” the Ambassador said.

On another note, she expressed concern over the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) legislation, which caters for artistes and others.

According to her, this legislation ought to match the advancements in technology. In fact, she warned that some companies may even avoid investing in the country if it’s without a stronger IPR legislation.

The IPR legislation allows creators to safeguard US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch sharing remarks at PSC’s AGM their work through patents, trademarks and copyrights, s the executive mem- Bank, and Gaza ranked bet- resulting in prevention of bers of the Private ter than Guyana. plagiarism.

Sector Commission She explained that this Ambassador Lynch cau(PSC) met on Friday af- was linked to the fact that tioned during her remarks ternoon for its Annual Guyana has high rates of that they did not intend General Meeting (AGM), taxation, energy, corruption to frighten investors away US Ambassador to Guyana and lack of transparency, from the country, but to let Sarah-Ann Lynch called on coupled by a number of oth- them know they play a pivthe Commission to play its ers. otal role in resolving such isrole in the fight against cor“In addition, the duties sues. ruption; as Guyana was re- imposed on many import“These issues are raised cently ranked number 134 of ed items can be substantial, not to scare away invest190 countries in the World driving costs up beyond com- ment, but to show that each Bank’s report on ease of do- petitiveness. I don’t need to one can be resolved over ing business. tell you that the cost of elec- time and with the proper reThe Ambassador pointed tricity is one of the highest sources,” she noted. out that the World Bank’s in the region, at more than On this note, the US 2018 report on ease of doing 35 cents per kilowatt hour. Ambassador explained that business reflected a drop in The power grid system is the PSC can play a role in afranking from number 126 antiquated, resulting in reg- fecting a change by offering in 2017 to number 134 in ular power outage, forcing guidance to the Government 2018, out of 190 countries. companies… to install their in shaping legislation.

Places like Iran, the West own power generation sys- Further, it can review poli-

A

A section of the gathering at the AGM on Friday

cies by the administration and recommend changes.

The PSC can also serve as an example of transparency and ethical behaviour to the rest of the business community. She added that internally, it can encourage all its member-companies to pay taxes in a timely manner and as prescribed by law. This, she added, will boost the Guyana Revenue Authority in its tax collecting ventures, hire more staff, and provide additional training to better handle the upcoming oil sector.

In the past, the coalition Government had been blasted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo for several acts of corruption.

In fact, the US State Department had highlighted Guyana as corrupt, owing to a number of irregularities within various Government ministries.

According to the State Department in its assessment of the situation, allegations of corruption continue to trouble Guyana.

It cited the Transparency International (TI) 2017 Corruption Perception Index, which ranked Guyana at 91 out of 180 countries. To make matters worse, Guyana has since dropped to 93rd position in TI’s latest report.

The index placed Guyana’s corruption perception score at 37 to tie with

Gambia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Mongolia and Panama.

Last year, Guyana scored 38 when it ranked 91 out of all the countries reviewed.

The index came at a time when much was said about the Auditor General’s 2017 report and the sole sourcing of contracts.

This included the Public Procurement Commission investigating and red flagging the sole sourcing of the Demerara river bridge feasibility study. The contract in question was awarded to Dutch company, LievenseCSO, for a feasibility study into the new Demerara river bridge crossing.

10 news

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyoil reduces gasoline price by $10

T

he Guyana Oil Company Limited (Guyoil) has announced a reduction in prices for gasoline and gasoil.

The reduction took effect on Friday at 14:00h.The reduction in prices are for the

Super 95 Gasoline and gasoil.

For retail, Super 95 gasoline has been reduced from $224 per litre to $214 per litre; and for Gasoil (LSD), from $217 per litre to $203 per litre.

For wholesale, gasoline has been reduced from $214 per litre to $204 per litre, while gasoil was reduced from $207 per litre to $193 per litre.

GuyOil said these price reductions were possible due

Labourer jailed for stealing from vendor

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agistrate Leron Daly on Friday sentenced an Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD) labourer to one year imprisonment when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts; charged for stealing a quantity of items.

Devon Williams admitted to the charge which stated that on June 17, 2019 at Water and Robb Streets, Georgetown, he stole one vendor’s cart, a quantity of alcoholic beverages, glass bottles, confectionaries, cigarettes and other items amounting to $90, 400 property of Dellon Barker.

Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh told the Court that on the day in question, the Virtual Complainant went to collect his cart but it was missing. Eyewitnesses later identified the defendant to the VC as the person who was seen removing the cart.

to lower acquisition cost.

In announcing the reductions, the Oil Company said

it is always cognizant of its role in the Guyana economy and it continuously strives

to ensure that quality petroleum products are provided at excellent prices.

Prison Officer charged for taking ganja into Camp Street Prison

A Jailed: Devon Williams

The Court also heard that as the VC approached the labourer, he ran away, and as

such, a report was made to the Police. Williams was later seen and arrested.

n emotional 26-year-old Shondel Watson appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty on Friday, charged for trafficking a quantity of marijuana into the Camp Street Prison.

The prison officer of C Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, denied the charge which stated that on June 27, 2019, at Camp Street Prison, Georgetown, she had in her possession 314 grams of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

Prosecutor Seon Blackman informed the court that on the day in question, about 08:20h, Watson was observed acting in a suspicious manner by a Police Officer, who later conducted a search and discovered a parcel in the defendant’s skirt waist.

Another search on Watson’s handbag unearthed two other parcels of marijuana concealed in a bowl.

In an effort to explain herself, Watson in tears told the court that the prosecution’s facts are far from the truth. The woman explained that when she arrived at the prison, she was searched before being allowed into the premises. The court heard that Watson lodged her handbag with a security guard and visited the washroom. However, upon her return, she was approached by two officers who then requested to conduct a search on her belongings.

As the search was in process, Watson said, a police officer then informed her that

Remanded: Shondel Watson covers her face as she is escorted from the courtroom

the illegal drug was found hidden in her skirt waist. Nevertheless, the defendant maintained her innocence as she claimed that there was no bowl in her bag.

Prosecutor Blackman objected to bail on the grounds that she had knowledge, control and possession of the illegal substance.

Magistrate McGusty, after listening to the facts and the defendant’s explanation, remanded the woman to prison. The case will continue on July 2, 2019.

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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Must present your coupon to receive this offer.

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12

saturday, june 29, 2019 | guya

Zulu

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he Zulu traditional wedding ceremony, or Umabo, usually takes place after a white wedding.

This follows the dowry ceremony, lobola, the bringing of gifts for the bride’s mother and close family, or Izibizo and Umbondo, where the bride brings different household groceries for her soonto-be family. On the big day, a Zulu bride will change her outfit at least three different times to convey to her inlaws her beauty in different styles and colours.

Moroccan

The Moroccan marriage celebration includes several ceremonies that can last between three days to a week. After an agreement by witnesses and the Adoul (Notary), gifts such as jewellery and shoes are exchanged. Two days before the wedding, the bride goes to the Hamam, a traditional sauna. This is regarded as an act of purification.

This is then followed by the Hennaya, where the bride and friends receive symbolic

motifs weddin by recit white c ellery, course,

Sw

The volves the m While henna the we Kirumb usually sic of d is follow vows c the gro lunche The we groom

13

e 29, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

an

arriage sevat can days to eement Adoul as jewre exbefore de goes ditionregardcation. by the bride mbolic

motifs as a lucky charm. The wedding day is characterised by recitals of Quranic verses, white caftans, matching jewellery, food, dance and, of course, music.

Swahili

The Swahili wedding involves a separation between the men and the women.

While the bride attends the henna party the night before the wedding, the men do the Kirumbizi, a fighting dance usually performed to the music of drums and a flute. This is followed by the Nikah, the vows ceremony, after which the groom gets invited to a luncheon called the Walima.

The wedding climaxes as the groom picks up his wife in a

dance and music-filled procession as they head to their new home.

Maasai

Marriage in the Maasai tribe consists of a tedious process of courtship. The admirer is required to show his appreciation to his wife through the giving of a gift, usually a chain, which is followed by him giving out strong drinks to his newly-added family members – his in-laws. Once the parents approve, the groom is then required to give at least three cows and two sheep; one sheep is slaughtered and its fat is used to decorate the bride’s gown. (Excerpted from africa.com)

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

The Blackening of the Bride: Scotland

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he bride and groom are slathered from head to toe in every disgusting substance their friends can get their hands on. Curdled milk, rotten eggs, spoiled curry, fish sauces, mud, flour, sausages, every nasty thing you can imagine. As if that weren’t enough, the couple are then paraded about, with well-wishers making as much noise as possible. Depending on the region, sometimes it’s just the bride or groom alone who is the victim of this particular pre-wedding tradition.

Crying Ritual of the Tujia People: Sichaun Province, China Starting

30

days

be-

fore the wedding, the bride spends an hour a day crying.

Ten days later, she is joined by her mother, and then 10 days after that, her grandmother. I know what you’re thinking, but this is actually meant as an expression of joy and deep love.

over food, drink and trash into a chamber pot. They would then barge into the couple’s room with a toilet full of garbage and would not leave until the couple drank it. Today, the soup is more commonly made up of chocolate and champagne, but it’s still served out of a toilet. The reasoning behind the tradition was to give the couple fuel to have sex.

(Okay, a French wedding is officially out for me).

Kumbh Vivah: India

Indian men and women born as Mangliks — meaning Mars is situated in the

moon sign) — are believed to be cursed. It is believed that Mangalik Dosha negatively impacts married life, causing tension and sometimes the untimely death of one of the partners. To cancel these effects, a Kumbh Vivah can be performed before the wedding. This is a wedding between a Mangalik and either a statue of Vishnu or a Peepal tree or banana tree.

The celebrated Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai had one such marriage with a tree before marrying her husband, Abhishek.

Guests arrive the night before the wedding, usually at the home of the bride,

es happiness. After the porcelain has been broken, the couple clean it up, which is supposed to teach them that married life will not be easy,

and break any porcelain object they can get their hands on. This act is thought to bring good luck to the couple. However, they cannot break glass, as it symbolis-

but by working together, they can overcome any challenge. Today, the new generation breaks the porcelain on the wedding day rather than the night before. (Excerpted

Polterabend: Germany

The Kissing Tradition: Sweden

If the groom leaves the room for any reason, all the other men at the wedding are allowed to kiss the bride.

The same goes for the groom and female guests if the bride should leave the room.

La Soupe: France

After the reception, the couple would be sent to their bed while the bridal party cleaned up the mess. This was done by dumping all the left-

1st, 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th or 12th house of a person’s Rashi (Indian astrological

No Smiling: Congo

Weddings are considered a thoughtful affair in this part of Africa, and for everything to be taken seriously, the couple cannot smile during or after the ceremony. Nor are they allowed to smile in any wedding day photos.

from HuffPost)

news

Berbice $200M model farm abandoned …project waste of taxpayers’ money – Regional Chairman

The state of the $200M model farm at Fort Wellington, Region Five

T

he 35-acre, $200 million model farm at Fort Wellington, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) is a waste of taxpayers’ money according to Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal, who further said that there is nothing to show how the money was spent.

Ramphal told Guyana Times that the model farm is in a deplorable state and that nothing of substance was done there.

“This land is actually in an abandon stage whereby it is filled with bush and overgrowth. It is clearly showing the wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money,” the Regional Chairman said.

To date, he added, there are no records to prove that any produce actually came out of the model farm although Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ovid Morrison had some time back displayed some vegetables he claimed to have been cultivated at the farm.

In the past, the land was occupied and operated by farmers until the REO had ordered their removal so that the area could be developed into a model farm, Ramphal said.

On October 27, 2016, notices were placed at the entrances to the farms situated at Naarstigheid and Catherine’s Lust, denying the farmers access

to their farms.

The farmers had occupied 50 acres of land and cultivated primarily cash crops, fruits and reared livestock.

However, on January 9, 2018, Morrison stated that the model farm will address land selection, crop cultivation, and principles of crop rotation, as well as waste consolidation but the Chairman held out that it is a political move to get rid of the farmers.

However, after almost two years, the Regional Chairman said the money was wasted.

“And it is not benefiting a single citizen. Instead of the Government giving this person so much money to spend on a farm to just cultivate some cash crops, we could have used that money to build a state-ofthe-art market on that prime residential location there which could have benefited our youths tremendously,” Ramphal noted.

Back in 2017 when the idea was first brought to the Region Five RDC, the Council was supposed to give its blessings to the project before it was executed but the RDC never approved it.

Nevertheless, the REO went ahead with the project as his own.

The crops owned by those farmers were bulldozed and the farmers had asked the RDC to intervene but were told that it was all the REO’s doing without getting approval from the RDC. Several letters were dispatched to Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan and the Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder but the farmers are still awaiting a response.

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Murdered female taxi driver

GTT claims phone records already handed over to Police

Dead taxi driver Indira Bipat

O

ne day after Guyana Times published an article with D-Division Commander Edmond Cooper saying that Police are yet receive the call log for murdered taxi driver, Indira Bipat, the phone company, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT), is claiming that they provided the information to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) within hours of request.

In a release to the media, the company revealed that it has been in full compliance with the GPF in efforts to solve the investigation of murdered taxi driver, Indira Bipat.

In addition, the release stated that the request from the GPF was received on May 24 and the necessary information was provided to the relevant authorities on the same day.

On the other hand, the

release posited that GTT was appalled at the information coming out of the D-Division.

“The Force did not request additional information and I am quite distraught that it has brought GTT into such spotlight, stating that they are still awaiting information from the company”, a release from the Company Representative, Travis Piggott, said.

However, when contacted for an update on the matter, Commander Cooper noted that the detectives were yet to locate the missing car of the dead taxi driver and would have reviewed CCTV footage with the hope of doing so, but to no avail.

The next step, he told Guyana Times on Thursday, was to get the phone records from GTT since Bipat reportedly left her home after receiving a call on her mobile phone.

“Her phone was never recovered, and we already contacted GTT to trace the calls that she made and would have received. As it is, we are still waiting on that information from GTT to be provided to us so we can follow that route. We will ensure that we check and double check all avenues possible to get to the bottom of this as soon as we can,” he added.

On May 19, the body of 47-year-old Indira Bipat, formerly of Lot 18 Samaroo Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, was found

D Division Commander Edmond Cooper

in a ditch at La Parfaite Harmonie, but her silver/ grey Toyota Axio bearing registration number PXX 4114 that she had been driving was missing.

Bipat reportedly left her home at about 17:30h on May 18. After she failed to return home that evening and the following morning, her son filed a missing person’s report at the Vreed-enHoop Police Station.

While there, the son received a report from a female friend informing him that the body of a female had been found at La Parfaite Harmonie. As such, the family rushed to the scene and their worst fears were confirmed.

The Post-Mortem Examination that was conducted on Bipat’s body revealed the cause of death as strangulation, compounded by blunt trauma to the head.

BV farmers bemoan blocked drainage …overgrown shrubbery, stagnant water causing distress

F

arming and other agricultural activities in the community of Plantain Walk at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD), has been affected by the blockage of a trench, which occurred during drainage works a few months ago, resulting in a buildup of stagnant water.

Speaking with Guyana Times on Friday, one of the affected locals, Motiram Ram, explained that drainage works were conducted a few months ago and in the process, dirt was used to build a dam, preventing water from the backlands from entering the trenches. As such, a number of problems were uncovered

since then.

At first, there was no source of water to conduct farming operations. However, the trench was later invaded by shrubbery and other plants after it remained void of water. This has invited dangerous reptiles and other creatures.

“There is a lot of drainage problems. It is a kind of farmland. We do farming and they block off the water from the backlands from flushing out the trench and provide water. They put a high dam and the water can’t come over so this is really really affecting us,” the man stated.

“The place is like a jungle because there is not

enough water and the bush just growing. The little water that we have is stagnant. It needs to be cleared. One of my concern is that in the same trench, it is like a jungle. We get some serious alligator and snakes. I don’t know what will happen to us,” he later explained.

Ram said a piece of machinery was tasked with providing some drainage works a few days ago but could not continue due to insufficient fuel. A tractor was then dispatched to deliver petrol to finish the job but could not traverse the roadway. The affected resident argued that the street was built with asphalt

and these are just excuses to prolong their distresses.

“About two months ago, a machinery come to Beterverwagting to clean the trench. They did part of it and like the funds run out and they go away. Now, about four days back, a big excavator park at the back by the end of the road waiting for fuel from drainage and irrigation. The operator don’t have fuel to operate the machine up to now. When a tractor come to bring fuel, the driver said he can’t pass to go there and the road is asphalt.

We have good roads here and yet they making excuses,” Ram expressed.

Persons in the community have expressed concerns

A dam that was built to prevent the community accessing water

The trench, void of water, which has been invaded by bushes

over their livelihoods and are calling on the relevant authorities to have the matter addressed. With the current

situation, the community lacks an effective drainage system during the rainy season.

Watooka Guest House recommissioned after $50M rehabilitation

T

he Watooka Complex Guest House, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), was officially re-commissioned on Thursday following a $50 million rehabilitation The historic landmark was declared open by Business Minister, Haimraj Rajkumar at a simple ceremony attended by Government and regional officials.

The building, which was constructed in the early 20th century, recently underwent massive rehabilitation by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

It now features a contemporary deck overlooking the Watooka section of the Demerara River amongst numerous other enhanced amenities.

Minister Rajkumar congratulated all involved in the rehabilitation process, as he expressed admiration for the newly constructed deck, which he said has lifted the ambience of the facility.

He also charged the management of the facility to ensure that the unique experience, impressive architecture and pristine surroundings are preserved.

The Minister believes that Watooka Guest House can be more than an accommodating establishment.

“You can offer visitors a complete experience because it is located on one of the most beautiful spots on the Demerara River which can lend itself to a raft of activities such as kayaking, fishing, river tours, bird watching and many more...”,

The rehabilitated Watooka Guest House

the Minister said.

He further pledged to provide assistance to the project and congratulated the stakeholders involved in fostering tourism development.

Minister with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson noted the importance of the preservation of historical buildings, which she said is crucial to the nation’s

heritage and history.

“The continued existence of Watooka Guest House is indeed an historical one and it has deep symbolism...

We must be consistently reminded about the importance of maintaining buildings and sites of national interest and their significance or symbolism, their authenticity and history are retained. There is increased economic value through tourism and they provide tangible examples of knowledge and history that can be grasped by successive generations”, she noted.

NICIL CEO, Colvin Heath London explained that the team embarked on the rehabilitation since it views Linden as a destination location. He outlined plans to have the community

“booming again” since it was during the early days of bauxite mining that the guest house was constructed.

Linden Mayor Waneka Arrindell in her remarks said it was a privilege to see the historical transformation as she urged NICIL to continue to work with the municipality in an effort to transform, revive and preserve the community’s heritage.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Renis Morian pointed to the history and evolution of the guest house as he congratulated and commended the management and team of NICIL in making the project a successful one.

In addition, the public was encouraged to visit the guest house and have a “taste of the Watooka experience”.

16

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

Regional

EU and Mercosur agree huge Caribbean urged to brace trade deal after 20-year talks for continued drought

T

Brazil is one of four countries in Mercosur

he European Union (EU) and South American economic bloc Mercosur southern common market have clinched a huge trade deal after 20 years of negotiations.

EU Commission Chief Jean-Claude Juncker said it was the EU's biggest deal to date and, at a time of trade tensions between the US and China, showed that "we stand for rules-based trade".

Brazil's President Jair

Bolsonaro said it was "historic" and "one of the most important trade deals of all time".

Mercosur consists of Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay.

Venezuela is also a member, but it was suspended in 2016 for failing to meet the group's basic standards.

The deal aims to cut or remove trade tariffs, making imported products cheaper for consumers while also boosting exports for compa-

nies on both sides.

It is set to create a market for goods and services covering nearly 800 million consumers, making it the largest in the world in terms of population.

The deal aims to cut or remove trade tariffs, making imported products cheaper for consumers while also boosting exports for companies on both sides.

The two parties began negotiating in 1999, but talks accelerated after US President Donald Trump's election in 2016. As a result, EU-US talks were frozen.

The EU has also concluded trade agreements with Canada, Mexico, and Japan since Trump's election.

However, the EU deal with Mercosur could see savings on tariffs that are four times as big as those made in the Japan deal, EU trade commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said. (Excerpt from BBC

T

he Barbados-based Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) Friday said that drought conditions in the Caribbean will continue in several countries for the July to September this year.

In its latest Caribbean Climate Outlooks publication, the CIMH said that the situation is due in part to a weak El Niño.

It said Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao (ABC Islands) Belize and the Lesser Antilles will continue to experience drought situations and that “a progressive increase in wet spells

are expected throughout the Region; however, possibly fewer than in most wet seasons.

“The spells may bring some level of drought relief, but also concern for flooding. Peak heat stress will likely be experienced between August and September, especially during heatwaves.

Episodes of Saharan dust incursion are expected,” CIMH reported.

It said that as of June 1, severe, or worse, drought has developed in northern Belize, eastern extremities of Cuba, coastal French Guiana, the northern

US sanctions Maduro's son as it raises pressure on Venezuela

News)

Negotiations for sale of LIAT shares to begin Monday

T

he Antigua and Barbuda Government is crossing its fingers and hoping for a reasonable outcome as a team from the twin island will head to Barbados next week to commence negotiations surrounding the sale of LIAT shares.

The local team responsible for spearheading negotiations with the Barbadian Government will depart the island on Monday for the first round of talks.

The Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister, Lionel “Max” Hurst,

made the announcement on Thursday during the post-Cabinet press briefing.

“We will want to point out that the Antigua and Barbuda team responsible for negotiating with the Barbados team on the sale of certain shares owned

by Barbados in the LIAT Airline will set off for a meeting in Bridgetown on Monday, July 1,” he said.

The news from the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda came days after Barbados’ Attorney General Dale Marshall announced that the negotiations had

not begun.

Marshall said he was hopeful he would be able to meet with authorities from Antigua and Barbuda before the start of next month’s 40th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government to be held in St. Lucia.

The local Government has agreed to take over the liabilities incurred

by Barbados in the LIAT re-fleeting exercise, and to keep LIAT flying, rather than participate in any collapsing of the airline. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Caricom Heads to meet in July

Leewards, western parts of Trinidad on the shorter term, and in Barbados, southern Belize, southernmost Dominican Republic and French Guiana, south-western Haiti, and Martinique and Trinidad on the long term.

Long-term concerns are also evolving in Dominica, French Guiana, Martinique, Sint Maarten and Trinidad, and are possible in Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. Barbados, most of Belize, northern Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, St Lucia, Tobago and the United States Virgin Islands. (Excerpt from CMC)

Nicolás Maduro Jr accompanies his father, Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro, in a military parade, in Caracas, Venezuela [File:

T

Ariana Cubillos/Reuters]

he Trump Administration on Friday announced sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a move to increase pressure on family members of top officials backing Maduro and suspected of corruption.

The action by the US Treasury Department freezes any US assets belonging to Maduro's son, Nicolás Ernesto Maduro Guerra, and prohibits US nationals or American institutions from doing business with him.

"Maduro's regime was built on fraudulent elections, and his inner circle lives in luxury off the proceeds of corruption while the Venezuelan people suffer," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

"Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela. Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro's

corruption."

Until recently, the 29-year-old Maduro Guerra kept a low profile as a little-known flautist in Venezuela's world-famous network of youth orchestras. But his political career took off shortly after his father was elected President in 2013 and he was named to lead a newly-created corps of inspectors of the presidency, raising allegations of nepotism.

He is also a member of the constitutional assembly, a rubber-stamping rival of the Oppositioncontrolled congress charged with rewriting the nation's charter. In 2017, he delivered a fiery speech from the assembly vowing to storm the White House in response to President Donald Trump's threat of military force to remove his father from power.

His sanctioning marks the start of a new strategy targeting family members of insiders. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Mexican President announces plan to provide 40,000 jobs to migrants Heads of Government at the opening of the 18th special meeting of Heads of Government of Caricom Single Market and Economy [Government Information Photo]

T

he 40th regular meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) will be held in St Lucia from July 3 to July 5.

The meeting, which will be held at the Sandals Grande St Lucian Hotel, will be chaired by St Lucian Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.

During the meeting, Heads of Government will be expected to build on the St Ann’s Declaration approved in December last

year, at the 18th special meeting on the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

That declaration put forward several measures, including a more structured mechanism for engagement with the Region’s Private Sector and labour; expansion of the categories of skilled nationals entitled to move freely and work within the community, to include agricultural workers, beauty service practitioners, barbers and security guards; ensur-

ing Community-wide recognition of each Member State-issued Caricom Skills Certificate, reinforcing regional security mechanisms, and permitting the Region’s citizens and companies to participate in public procurement processes across Caricom.

December’s special meeting also put together a team to advise Member States on a growth agenda for the Community. At July’s meeting, there is expected to be an update on its work. (Trinidad Newsday)

M

exico is finalising a deal to provide 40,000 factory jobs to migrants in northern states, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Friday, addressing a key need for the thousands waiting in Mexico as their US asylum cases are decided.

Speaking at his daily press conference, Lopez Obrador said he expected an agreement with factories to be signed next week.

“This agreement is going to be signed, there will be no legal problem,” he said. “We are arranging this so that they can be hired without much processing.”

Mexico’s border states have been inundated with migrants who must often wait weeks to seek US asylum under a policy known as “metering,” which limits the number who can apply each day.

After requesting asylum, thousands have been sent back to Mexico while they wait for their cases to be settled, a process that can take months or years.

The bottleneck shows no signs of easing. Mexico pledged earlier this month to do more to halt the flow of migrants to the United States after US President Donald Trump threatened to slap tariffs on Mexican exports.

Factories in northern

Mexico have grappled with labour shortages, so migrants could prove a boon for employers.

Although Lopez Obrador has doubled the minimum wage along the US border, pay there remains lower than the minimum wage in Central American countries such as Guatemala and Honduras, from which many of the migrants are fleeing.

What’s more, many migrants lack authorisation to work in the country, and border cities including Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez have struggled to house them in shelters as their numbers swell. (Excerpt from BBC News)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURday, JUNE 29, 2019

17

Around the World

Slipping away? US-China trade Crop planting slows in India deal appears elusive at G20 summit on weak monsoon rains

US President Donald Trump said he hoped to have productive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping about their trade war, but given the wide gap between the two leaders’ positions, a breakthrough seems remote

I

f United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are headed for a grand bargain over their bilateral trade dispute, there was little sign of it on the first day of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan on Friday.

When the working lunch on “Growth, Investment and Trade” was held behind

closed doors, the short briefing that an unnamed White House official gave to reporters suggested that the two sides remain far apart.

Trump and Xi are expected to meet on the sidelines of the summit today in what is likely to be the most keenly watched bilateral session of the two-day event.

“At a minimum, it will be productive,” Trump said of

the meeting with Xi. After meeting Brazilian leader Jair Bolsonaro, Trump gave no indication as to whether the US and China were any closer to a deal.

The stakes are high.

Trump more than doubled import tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 per cent in May. He has also threatened to impose tariffs on another $325 billion of goods, covering nearly all the remaining Chinese imports into the US, including consumer products such as mobile phones, computers and clothing.

Beijing retaliated with increased tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods, and state media have raised the possibility that China could start holding back exports of so-called rare earth elements, which are crucial for a variety of electronic components. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

European heatwave: France hits record temperature of 45.9C

F

rance has hit its highest recorded temperature - 45.9C (114.6F) amid a heatwave in Europe that has claimed several lives.

The new record was measured in the southern town of Gallargues-le-Montueux.

Before this year the previous record was 44.1C during a heatwave in 2003 that killed thousands.

Health Minister Agnès Buzyn has said, “everyone is at risk”.

France’s weather service has issued an unprecedented red alert for four areas.

Those are all in the south, but most of the country remains on orange alert,

the second highest level.

Swathes of the continent are experiencing extreme heat. Germany, France, Poland and the Czech Republic have all recorded their highest-ever June temperatures.

In Spain, firefighters are battling Catalonia’s worst wildfires in 20 years. Eight provinces are on red alert while temperatures are expected to rise above 42C in many areas.

Several people are believed to have lost their lives as a result of the extreme temperatures, including two who died from suspected heatstroke in Spain.

In France, Prime

Minister Edouard Philippe said a drowning was taking place every day and warned that the heat was making people “take risks”.

The Italian Ministry of Health has reported emergency levels of heat in 16 cities.

French authorities have stepped up restrictions on water use to combat the heatwave’s effects, while 4000 schools are now closed or have special measures in place to welcome pupils.

While extreme weather events like heatwaves occur naturally, experts say these will happen more often because of climate change.

Women plant rice saplings at a paddy field in a village in Nagaon district, in the northeastern state of Assam, India, July 3, 2018

I

ndian farmers have planted 14.7 million hectares with summer-sown crops, down almost 10 per cent from the previous year, the Farm Ministry’s data showed on Friday, as weak monsoon rains delayed sowing in most parts of the country.

The area planted with cotton was at 2.7 million

hectares versus 3.2 million hectares the prior year.

Planting of rice, the key summer crop, was little changed at 2.7 million hectares. Corn planting was 1.1 million hectares against 1.2 million hectares.

Other crop plantings such as pulses, sugar cane and oilseeds like soybean were also down versus last

year.

Farmers start planting their summer-sown crops from June 1, when monsoon rains are expected to reach India, where nearly half of farmlands lack irrigation.

The figures are provisional and subject to revision as updates arrive with the progress of the JuneSeptember monsoon season.

Monsoon rains were below average for the fourth straight week, with rainfall scanty over central and western parts of the country, raising concerns about major crop production and the impact on the nation’s economy.

Water levels in India’s main reservoirs were at 16 per cent of their storage capacity in the week to June 27 against 18 per cent a year earlier, according to the latest Government data.

Latest reservoir levels are lower than the last 10 years’ average of 19 per cent. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Sri Lanka picks 2 hangmen for 1st prisoner executions since 1970s

S

ri Lanka has hired two hangmen as it prepares for executions of four prisoners convicted of drug offences in what would be the country’s first use of the death penalty for over 40 years, prison authorities said on Friday.

President Maithripala Sirisena announced on Wednesday an end to a moratorium on the death penalty in force since 1976, a move political analysts said was meant to boost his chances of re-election if he stands again later this year.

Local and international rights groups, along with former colonial mas-

ter Britain, Canada, the European Union and United Nations have raised concerns about the South Asian nation’s restoration of capital punishment.

The two were picked from among 100 applicants who responded to an advertisement calling for male Sri Lankans aged between 18 and 45 with “excellent moral character” and “mental strength”.

Prisons Commissioner TMJW Thennakoon declined to provide details of the four convicts whose death penalties were approved by the President.

On Friday, a petition-

er - a Sri Lankan journalist - filed public interest litigation seeking to stop any executions, arguing that people’s rights were being violated. A court hearing will be held on July 2, and Thennakoon pledged that there would be no executions for the next seven days.

A spokesman for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said on Thursday international drug control conventions cannot be used to justify the use of the death penalty for drug-related offences alone. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Nuclear talks progress “not Gunmen kidnap Cameroon Opposition enough” for Iran to change course Leader in restive Anglophone region

John Fru Ndi was seized from his home in the city of Bamenda by gunmen

U

nidentified gunmen in Cameroon’s Anglophone region kidnapped the leader of one of the country’s leading opposition parties on Friday for the second time in two months, his party said.

Separatist rebels are battling Government forc-

es in English-speaking areas of the bilingual central African country, where the Francophone majority has long dominated.

John Fru Ndi, who heads the Social Democratic Front (SDF) and finished runner-up to President Paul Biya in the 2011 election, was seized from his home in the city of Bamenda by gunmen who wounded his bodyguard, an SDF statement said.

Fru Ndi’s current whereabouts were unknown, it said.

Fru Ndi, 77, was also abducted in April in the town of Kumbo during a funeral procession and held for a few hours before being released.

The SDF said Anglophone secessionist militants took him and tried to convince him to support their cause, though no one claimed re-

(Excerpt from BBC News)

sponsibility.

The SDF has called for Biya, who has served as President since 1982, to step down in favour of a transitional Government that can resolve the conflict.

But the party has not endorsed secession, angering separatists who turned to violence in late 2017 after the Government suppressed peaceful protests against the Francophone majority’s alleged marginalisation of Anglophones.

The United Nations estimates the conflict has killed about 1800 people and displaced over 500,000 in less than two years.

Cameroon’s linguistic divide harks back to the end of World War One, when the League of Nations divided the former German colony of Kamerun between allied French and British victors.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Iran’s top nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi says European trade proposals were a “step forward” [Leonhard Foeger/Reuters]

D

iplomats meeting in Vienna in a bid to save a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers made progress but it was “not enough” to stop Tehran scaling back compliance with the accord, according to the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister.

Officials from the deal’s remaining signatories - China, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Iran - as well as the

European Union, held talks in the Austrian capital on Friday after Tehran warned that it would soon breach a limit on the amount of enriched uranium set out in the agreement.

“It was a step forward, but it is still not enough and not meeting Iran’s expectations,” Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told reporters. “I don’t think the progress made today will be enough to stop our pro-

cess but the decision will be made in Tehran.”

The meeting took place amid growing concern that the deal could collapse, a year after the United States unilaterally withdrew from the accord, which limits Iran’s nuclear activity in exchange for relief from sanctions.

After pulling out, the US reimposed sanctions on Iran and called for Iranian oil exports to be reduced to zero as part of a “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran, which has dramatically reduced Iran’s oil exports.

The remaining signatories to the deal want Iran to remain within its limits but Tehran says they have not offered sufficient incentives.

In addition to the stockpile limit, Iran has said that in early July it will start to enrich uranium above the 3.67 per cent cap agreed in the deal. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURday, JUNE 29, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Ask for everything you want and be willing to negotiate until you find common ground. Whether it’s with a personal partner or regarding an upcoming professional position, don’t be afraid to dicker.

If you are too pushy, you TAURUS (April 20- may have to take no for an anMay 20) swer. Be intelligent and willing to compromise. The impression you make will affect how others treat you.

dilbert

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Take better care of yourself. Make adjustments to your lifestyle, eating habits and exercise program. Professional and personal matters will turn out better if you have the vitality to do your best.

CANCER

Observation will keep you from blurting out something that you probably should keep to yourself. If you are a good listener, the information you receive will become an asset.

(June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

If you don’t share your hopes and dreams, no one will know what you want. Being open about your plans will allow others to offer suggestions and help you reach your goal.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Either make a move or don’t, just stop procrastinating. Your unsettled state gives others a chance to take advantage of you.

It’s time to put your needs and desires first.

SCORPIO

SUDOKU

Be aware of situations that could lead to confrontation. Keep your opinions to yourself and opt to offer compliments, not criticism, when dealing with others.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

solution for LAST PUBLISHED puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Pursue your goals. Once others see the progress you are making, you’ll be offered enough help to reach your destination, with time left over for a little fun with friends.

Be up-front about what you intend to do before you begin. Taking proper precautions and doing everything by the book will help you avoid setbacks.

Romance will ease stress.

Pick a path that is conducive to meeting people who have something to contribute. The incentives you offer will pay off. Positive change is heading your way.

Follow what feels right and best for you. Refuse to let anyone take charge or goad you into something you don’t want to do.

Updating your image will boost your morale.

You should consider making a personal change that will promote new beginnings. Traveling, learning and interacting with others will provide the encouragement you need to proceed. Do what makes you happy.

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

19

Sri Lanka stung by South Africa after bees stop play A

nyone arriving at Chester-le-Street just after two o’clock would have been bewildered to find two umpires, 11 men in green and two batsmen flat on the ground, faces nose deep in the grass as a swarm of bees buzzed across the square. But there was no sting in the tale for Eoin Morgan, as Sri Lanka fluffed the understudy lines suddenly thrust at them and declined the offer to draw level on points with England – without completely removing the possibility of qualifying for the semi-finals as the complicated last-gasp dance continues.

The nine-wicket victory with more than 12 overs remaining was only South Africa’s second win in what has been a personal dog’s dinner of a tournament.

Their solitary victory before this was a slow crawl against Afghanistan. Yet there were signs of life in this autumnal triumph – a disciplined bowling display, sucking the Sri Lankans into self-destruct mode, and some incidental high-class fripperies with the bat from Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis.

Amla clonked two balls of the first over of South Africa’s reply to the boundary, leaning gloriously into a stroke on the off side before flicking the next ball through midwicket as Lasith Malinga drifted on to his pads. But in Malinga’s next

over he repeatedly rooted his feet to the ground while awkwardly jousting outside off stump. A little later he pulled out a lofted shot that crawled to a standstill short of the boundary. Then a poky nudge, followed by the purest of cover drives.

And so it went on, sumptuousness followed by inelegance, on a slow pitch that proved tricky for any strokeplay other than the most gung-ho.

The only wicket to fall in the innings was that of Quinton de Kock, who after three fours was mesmerised by one of Malinga’s low-armed slingers, a dipping speedy yorker that crept between bat and pad to crash into the stumps. Du Plessis, the tall-standing foil to Amla’s shuffling master, finished 96 not out, clocking up his third fifty of the World Cup. He also hit the shot of the day – a dancing, towering six which was the 265th of the tournament – 88 metres straight over the Lumley End off Suranga Lakmal. His next ball was pulled masterfully through midwicket for four. Amla finished unbeaten on 80, his biggest scare coming when he gave himself out after seeing a reviewed lbw on the big screen, only to be called back when it was revealed the ball pitched outside leg stump.

Their unbroken stand of 175 was South Africa’s high-

est of the tournament and gave some easy afternoon pleasure to a full ground enjoying the first of its three World Cup fixtures, a gentle breeze cooling the ground in anticipation of the heatwave on its slow march north.

Du Plessis won the early-morning toss and had a bowl, looking for some seam movement on a good pitch.

What was he after? “A win,” came the rather desperate answer. South Africa had won 16 of their last 18 ODIs against Sri Lanka but World Cup campaigns can run sides low.

Sri Lanka had been given permission by the ICC to pull on their lucky yellow change jerseys that they had worn when they beat England but luck turned out to be in short supply.

Dimuth Karunaratne was out to the very first ball of the morning, caught off guard by some bounce from Kagiso

Rabada, his horizontal bat limp as the ball billowed to Du Plessis at second slip.

From there Kusal Perera and Avishka Fernando decided to live by the sword, slotting four fours each as their left-hand right-hand combination threw the bowlers off their line. But both fell for 30, snared by the excellent man of the match, Dwaine Pretorius, playing his first World Cup game.

Theirs were to be the highest scores in a total of 203 as Sri Lanka’s middle order chose to live by the sofa, stodging along, settling in, slow between the wickets, happy to block out balls – there were 187 dots in the innings – until suddenly throwing the popcorn in the air in big-hitting panic and getting out.

Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis have guided South Africa to just their second victory in the tournament

3

SCOREBOARD

Sri Lanka Innings (50 overs maximum) FDM Karunaratne (c) c du Plessis b Rabada 0 MDKJ Perera † b Pretorius 30 WIA Fernando c du Plessis b Pretorius 30 BKG Mendis c Morris b Pretorius 23 AD Mathews b Morris 11 DM de Silva b Duminy 24 BMAJ Mendis c Pretorius b Morris 18 NLTC Perera c Rabada b Phehlukwayo 21 I Udana c & b Rabada 17 RAS Lakmal not out 5 SL Malinga c du Plessis b Morris 4 Extras (b 4, lb 3, w 13) 20 TOTAL (49.3 Overs, RR: 4.1) 203 all out Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Dimuth Karunaratne, 0.1 ov), 2-67 (Avishka Fernando, 9.5 ov), 3-72 (Kusal Perera, 11.3 ov), 4-100 (Angelo Mathews, 21.5 ov), 5-111 (Kusal Mendis, 27.1 ov), 6-135 (Dhananjaya de Silva, 36.1 ov), 7-163 (Jeevan Mendis, 39.5 ov), 8-184 (Thisara Perera, 45.3 ov), 9-197 (Isuru Udana, 48.3 Malinga, still a crowd favourite after all these years and who, incidentally, can still touch his toes at the start of his spells, had time to swat a burly boundary before being last man out, with three balls of the innings to spare.

Things are likely to be rather more tense when England play here on

ov), 10-203 (Lasith Malinga, 49.3 ov) BOWLING K Rabada (10-2-36-2) CH Morris (9.3-0-46-3) D Pretorius (10-2-25-3) AL Phehlukwayo (8-0-381) Imran Tahir (10-0-36-0) JP Duminy (2-0-15-1) South Africa Innings (target: 204 runs from 50 overs) Q de Kock † b Malinga 15 HM Amla not out 80 F du Plessis (c) not out 96 Extras (lb 1, w 14) 15 TOTAL (37.2 Overs, RR: 5.51) 206-1 Yet to bat: HE van der Dussen, AK Markram, JP Duminy, D Pretorius, AL Phehlukwayo, CH Morris, K Rabada, Imran Tahir Fall of wickets: 1-31 (Quinton de Kock, 4.5 ov) BOWLING SL Malinga (10-1-47-1) DM de Silva (4-0-18-0) RAS Lakmal (6-0-47-0) NLTC Perera (5.2-1-28-0) BMAJ Mendis (7-0-36-0) I Udana (5-0-29-0) Wednesday in what could be a sudden-death game against New Zealand. After the game Pretorius said: “The guys are stoked, we showed what we are capable of, I’m just sad that it’s too late.” England live in terror that the opposite could be true for them – they have already shown us what they can do, only to fall at the last. (The Guardian)

AC Milan banned from Europa League Man Utd sign Crystal Palace next season over FFP breaches defender in £50M deal

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C Milan have struck a deal with Uefa to serve a oneyear ban from European football over breaches of Financial Fair Play rules.

The club, which finished fifth in Italy’s Serie A, will miss next season’s Europa League.

Uefa will end its proceedings against the Italians for overspending, said the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas).

“AC Milan is excluded from Uefa club competitions of the sporting season 2019-2020,”

said Cas. Milan’s ban means AS Roma, who came sixth in the standings, move up to the Europa League group stage while their place in the qualifying rounds is taken by seventh-placed Torino.

Seven-time European champions Milan finished one point behind local rivals Inter, who took the final Champions League qualifying place.

AC Milan confirmed their “voluntary acceptance” of the ban and said they hoped it

AC Milan successfully appealed against a ban in July 2018

would “act as a stimulus” to take them back to the top.

“Whilst saddened by the fact that our fans will not be able to see their team compete in European competition next season, the club recognises and respects FFP,” the club said in a statement.

“The club acknowledges it has no other choice but to accept the sanctions, as it seeks to forge a pathway back to full compliance.

“AC Milan remains committed to restoring the club to its rightful place at the top of European football.”

Milan previously successfully appealed against a two-year ban imposed by Uefa last summer after being found guilty of breaking spending rules between 2015 and 2017.

Under Uefa regulations, any club making losses beyond the permitted limits over a three-year period faces possible sanctions, and in some circumstances, a ban.

Milan were able to take part in last season’s Europa League - going out in the group stage after appealing to Cas. (BBC Sport)

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aron Wan-Bissaka played in 35 Premier League matches for Crystal Palace in the 201819 season Manchester United have signed England Under-21 right-back Aaron WanBissaka from Crystal Palace in a £50m deal.

The 21-year-old, who made his first-team debut for Palace last year, has agreed a five-year contract that will earn him up to £80,000 a week.

United are paying £45m up front, making Wan-Bissaka the club’s fifth-biggest signing, behind Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku, Angel di Maria and Fred.

He is the club’s second summer recruit, after Daniel James joined from Swansea.

Wales international

James, 21, cost £15m.

Wan-Bissaka, who has been on international duty this month at the European Under-21 Championship, joined Palace’s academy when he was 11.

The d e -

fender was on £10,000 a week at Selhurst Park, the lowest-paid player in Palace’s firstteam squad.

His transfer was delayed by final negotiations between t h e clubs,

which ended with Palace securing a 10% sellon clause if Wan-Bissaka l e a v e s United for more than £50m. ( B B C Sport)

Aaron Wan-Bissaka played in 35 Premier League matches for Crystal Palace in the 2018-19 season

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

Trans-Tasman rivals face off in highly-anticipated clash L

ord’s is all set to host another big-ticket rivalry as Australia and New Zealand, the 2015 finalists, face off in the 37th match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 on Saturday, 29 June at; 5.30 local time. New Zealand suffered their first defeat of the tournament, when they were outclassed by a resurgent Pakistan in their previous clash by six wickets.

While James Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme impressed with a 132-run partnership for the sixth wicket in tough batting conditions at Edgbaston, the opening pair of Martin Guptill and Colin Munro failed once again. With New Zealand looking to seal off a semi-final spot sooner rather than later, it wouldn’t be surprising if Kane Williamson and the team management ring in some changes in the playing XI. Australia have once again proven why they are a team to be feared at ICC tournaments, having won six of their seven games and become the first and, so far, only team to confirm a spot in the semifinals. The opening pair of Aaron Finch and David Warner has been delivering consistently, with 996 runs between them. The bowlers, led by the ever-inspirational Mitchell Starc, haven’t allowed their opponents to get away, striking at crucial junctures on a consistent basis.The only area of mild concern for the five-time champions is the form of their middle order, as they face a strong New Zealand bowling unit, led by a shrewd captain on Saturday.

Martin Guptill, the New Zealand opener, hasn’t

been able to produce a performance of note after his stroke-filled 73* against Sri Lanka in his side’s opening game. Guptill, who scored an unbeaten century in his only outing at Lord’s, back in 2013, will look to find his rhythm back as the tournament enters a critical phase.

Mitchell Starc, the star left-arm pacer leads the wicket charts in this World Cup, much like he did in 2015, with 19 scalps.

Starc, who registered a career-best 6/28 against New Zealand at Eden Park in the 2015 edition, and later took the crucial wicket of Brendon McCullum in the final, will once again be Aaron Finch’s key weapon.

London will be dry and sunny, with no chances of precipitation and a bit of humidity. Teams batting first have won each of the

last three ODIs at Lord’s, and both captains, considering their strong bowling attacks, will look to bat first and back themselves to defend a total.

Squads New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor Australia: Aaron Finch (c), David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Pat Cummins, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Adam Zampa, Nathan Lyon (ICC)

Revived Pakistan look to continue uphill march

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akistan, with their new found confidence stemming from back-to-back wins, will look to put on another clinical performance against Afghanistan to keep themselves in contention for a spot in their semi-finals.

This match will bowl off at Headingley, Leeds, today Saturday, 29 June; 5.30am local time. No other team can quite demonstrate the game’s unpredictable nature like Pakistan can. Their recent surge in form, with backto-back wins against South Africa and New Zealand, has brought about interesting prospects in the final leg of the league stage at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019. They have bounced back strongly from their initial setbacks, much like they did in 1992, and now find themselves in a position identical to the one during their victorious campaign 27 years ago.6While Mohammad Amir has been a consistent performer with the ball, Babar Azam’s match-winning innings at Edgbaston comes as a huge positive for the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led side.

A win against Afghanistan on Saturday will keep them well and truly in the semi-final race, as the competition stiffens. Afghanistan, much like West Indies, have shown flashes of brilliance for brief moments in almost

each of their matches, but are yet to put on a complete match performance, which keeps them deprived of their first win in this tournament. While the

bowlers put on a strong performance in their last two games against India and Bangladesh, lack of partnerships with the bat cost them on both o c c a sions. The Gulbadin Naib-led side will look to seek confidence from their warm-up fixture against Pakistan, where they had emerged victorious by three wickets.

Haris Sohail, Pakistan’s aggressive left-hander, has probably been the source of much needed inspiration for Pakistan with his game changing contributions in the last two games. Haris Sohail, who scored 89 and 68 in his last two outings, will eye another match-winning contribution on Saturday.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman has been posing a lot of problems for the top-order batsmen in the last few matches.

Mujeeb, whose spell of 2/33 almost got Afghanistan over the line in the Asia Cup fixture against Pakistan last year, will look to produce his best to power his side their

first win of the tournament.

It will be a dry and sunny day with some gentle south-easterly winds. Dryness might bring the spinners into play on a hot at humid day at Headingley.

Both teams will look to bat first as batting is expected to get difficult as the day progresses.

Squads:

Babar Azam has been in sublime form for Pakistan

Pakistan: Sarfaraz Ahmed (c, wk), Asif Ali, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Hasnain, Imam-ul-Haq, Shadab Khan, Shoaib Malik, Wahab Riaz, Haris Sohail, Imad Wasim, Fakhar Zaman Afghanistan: Gulbadin Naib (c), Noor Ali Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Rahmat Shah (wk), Asghar Afghan, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Najibullah Zadran, Samiullah Shinwari, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Dawlat Zadran, Aftab Alam, Hamid Hassan, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Ikram Ali Khil (ICC)

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21

Crawford prepared for Caricom Day horse racing meet

By Timothy Jaikarran

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he highly anticipated Crawford Memorial Turf Club’s (CMTC’s) Caricom Day Meet will kick off on Sunday at the club’s sporting facility at Alness Village on the Corentyne Coast in East Berbice.

Club President Marcel Crawford Junior believes the races will be run off successfully despite the current inclement weather being a negative factor for horse racing.

In an interview with Guyana Times Sport, he was asked how things have been going leading up to the event; and Crawford responded, “For the event, we are asking for a violence-free day, as (violence) would disrupt the flow of events. This Caricom event promises to be an exciting one, as the three-year-old and two-year-old races will definitely bring the heat.

“My horse Orion got whipped the last time after returning from injury, but I’m hoping this time that we can take this event as a training ground leading up to the Guyana Cup. “In terms of the weather, we are hoping that it will hold its hands and allow us to run off a successful event. The last event we had was postponed for almost one month due to the weather.

But preparations are coming along nicely, and the

event promises to be a packed day, full of action.”

Crawford has said he remains positive that more sponsors will come on board, as horse racing as a sport is growing in Guyana. He noted that the presence of more sponsors on board would cause the sport to expand exponentially, but said he is more focused on pushing for legislation that would allow international horses to compete in Guyana.

He related that it has always been his goal to continue his father’s legacy and push for the legislation to be passed, since he knows that Guyana can develop into one of the world’s prime spots for horse racing.

Crawford relayed that with the influx of foreigners in the country, the CMTC is hoping for foreign investors to come on board, since he is working towards taking the Crawford stables to an international standard, which also includes providing blood testing for doping in the animals.

Some of the sponsors on board for this event thus far are Colin Elcock, Banks DIH, Jumbo Jet, Attorney-at-Law Poonai of Georgetown, Guy Hookumchand, Annirude Construction, Fazal Habibulla, Poonai Pharmacy at Rose Hall Town, and NTN Studios.

Persons desiring further information are invited to contact Marcel Crawford Jr on 678-5342 or 696-9009.

Part of the action at the Crawford Memorial Turf Club’s last meet

India’s national 110m record holder confirmed for AP Invitational

I

ndia’s national record-holder in the 110m hurdles, Siddhanth Thingalaya, has been confirmed as participating in the Aliann Pompey Invitational meet set for July 6 at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, WCD. Hailing from Mumbai, Thingalaya, who set India’s

national record in the 110m hurdles at 13.48s in 2017, has twice represented his country at the Commonwealth Games: in 2010 and in 2014, and has participated once at the World Championships: in 2017.

The 28-year-old is also an Asian junior silver

medallist (2010) in the 110m hurdles event, and has also competed at the World Junior Championships.

As founder of the AP Invitational, Aliann Pompey is extremely happy to have Thingalaya compete at the event, as his presence would only add quality to the championships.

Wilson focused GFF-KFC National U20 Independence Cup… on lifting Road to Play-off finalists to be decided Mecca VI title

By Timothy Jaikarran

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he UG Trojans have had a successful 2018/2019 season, wherein they won at least 80 percent of their matches although they played against some of the top teams in Guyana.

With the current successes they have reaped, they will now focus their attention on the “Road to MECCA VI” as they aim to take their current form into the competition and continue their domination.

“Road to Mecca VI” is scheduled to commence in July, and the UG Trojans are currently pushing themselves past their limit, despite the weather, as they aim to make 2019 their most decorated year.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport and being asked about the team’s preparation, Trojans Coach Warren Wilson said, “At the moment we are working on fine-tuning our offense. The guys are also working on their ace shots, so as to increase the team’s shooting percentage. I’ve come to realise that, over a period of time, our shooting was beginning to decline, so I have been working hard during practice with the team”, he said.

“Also, we are focusing more on working together as a unit; because the only way we can win is as a team, and not as individual talents,” he continued.

Wilson also noted that there has been drastic improvement in the team’s performance. He believes the team’s true test will come in competition.

He also indicated that, even as a coach, he also is in a growth phase; but he said he has learned from his mistakes to grow as a coach.

He added that, before heading into the competition, he would be keen on working on the management of the team during pressure situations, since he observed that at times it was responsible for the team losing vital games.

Wilson has said, “As the coach, (I have to say) the team is working at (its) best to lift the title and carry on our successful 2018/2019 season. We know it will not be easy, but the Trojans unit will not go down without a fight.”

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wo exciting matches will be played today as the finalists in the GFF–KFC National U20 "Independence Cup" are to be decided. Thus Dynamic FC will face Botofago FC at 13:00hrs, and Fruta Conquerors FC will play Santos FC at 15:30hrs.

Both these matches will be played at the GFF’s National Training Centre at Providence, EBD. The semifinalists were decided following last weekend’s quarterfinals, with the respective teams triumphing over their equal number from respective Regional Member Associations, including Strikers FC from the Rupununi Football Association.

Each team will be hunting glory in today’s encounters, even as they had each recorded comfortable wins in their quarterfinal matches.

Fruta Conquerors had brushed aside Buxton United by a 5-3 margin of goals, while Santos FC had dominated Strikers FC to register a 3-1 win.

Dynamic had triumphed over NA United by 3 goals to nil, and Botofago had edged Timehri Panthers by a 3-2 goal difference.

At culmination of the tournament, the victorious team will be rewarded with $500,000, a trophy and medals; 2nd place team will pocket $300,000, a trophy and medals; 3rd place team would pocket $200,000, a trophy and medals, while 4th place winner would have to settle for a trophy and medals.

The third-place playoff and finals are set for play on July 1 at the GFF National Training Centre at Providence.

Mackenzie Sports Club to stage AGM and elections on Sunday

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fter a decade of not staging Annual General Meetings, the Management Committee of the Mackenzie Sports Club has planned its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Elections for Sunday at the MSC Lounge in Greenheart Street, Mackenzie Linden.

This institution is the universe of sports in Linden, and remains the main sporting facility because of its vastness.

Led by incumbent President Avery Trim, the

MSC has had some tough years of recent, but are looking to reestablish its place among the best clubs in Guyana.

Club President Avery Trim is expected to present his report to the membership, and General Secretary Marlon Pearson is slated to do likewise. The treasurer's report is anticipated even with the absence of Treasurer John Trim, who is currently out of the country.

Club members will get a chance to participate

in the long-waited elections, which will certainly give a new lease of life to this club, which has the potential to be great again and lead the sports thrust in the mining town.

It is hoped that, while there has been a drop in membership due to several factors, members would show up to ensure the AGM is held and the elections come off, because of the club’s importance in steering the way for sports in the sports mad community.

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Edwards slams Burrowes, calls for approval from GCF General Assembly F

ormer president of the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF), and current General Secretary of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), Hector Edwards, says approval from the GCF General Assembly is required for the federation to remain in office.

The GCF has not held elections in over a year, and the life of the current executive ended since last June.

This information, revealed on a social network platform, has seen Edwards, a former top cyclist in his prime for Guyana, disclosing that only the General Assembly can extend ‘the life’ of the current executives.

“The only way they can remain in office is if the General Assembly decides to extend ‘the life’ [of the executives] until a certain point in time,”

Edwards explained. “If there is no such decision, then they should not be in office to run the interest of the federation.

You can’t decide on your own to push back elections,” he added.

H o r a c e Burrowes, e l e c t e d President in 2015, has had a turbulent period at the helm, with the c l u b s trying to move a no-confidence motion against him; while there were several calls for the intervention of the world cycling body.

An interim body has been installed but the International Cycling Union (UCI), which has said it recog-

nises Burrowes as the president until such time as fresh elections are held. Those elections, the UCI noted, were due

by June of last year.

Pascale Schyns,

Horace Burrowes

International Relations Manager of the UCI, in a letter to Ms Gemma Williams, had said, “…to have a change of president, elections should be democratically called; and according to our Constitution and the Guyana Cycling Federation, the next one

should take place in June 2018.

“Meanwhile, we suggest you talk with each other to find a solution to your internal problems.”

Recently, Burrowes has been on record as saying that conversations on the elections are “irrelevant at this time”.

He also posited that the GCF is in “good standing with UCI”.

“The elections of the GCF are coming up, but I don’t think that is relevant at this time, and I think we will speak on this at a different time. The discussion could happen over the phone, when I return…I wouldn’t be hard to find,” Burrowes has said at a press conference.

Burrowes has also declared that he acts as the International Cycling Union (UCI) sees fit or mandates.

Hector Edwards

“I will say again: the GCF is in very good standing with the UCI, and the UCI is the world body and they control the federation or every international federation, and

I do as UCI says and I go as our Constitution says, and if UCI says to do certain things, then I am doing as UCI says; so I am actually going to say I don’t think it is relevant for us to speak on that anymore in terms of the elections,” Burrowes said.

But Edwards slammed Burrowes for the comments.

“All I would say right now is that that is sheer trash, because you cannot say you are not compliant with the local constitution but with UCI, when the local constitution is in accordance with UCI…so you’re inconsistent with your own constitution, but compliant with UCI? That’s just nonsense,” Edwards said, adding that he would like for Burrowes and his executives to point to the UCI constitution that they are compliant with.

Guyana Under-17 team Upcoming Windies-India T20Is in Florida break yet to be revealed ticket sales record

Guyana Under-17 Select Team during the Under- 19 Inter-County Tournament

West Indies Captain Jason Holder and India’s Virat Kohli at the toss during their World Cup campaign

he Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Under-17 tournament is slated to commence from July 4th in Trinidad and Tobago. Some Caribbean teams have already been announced, but Guyana is yet to announce its 14-member squad.

The Leeward Islands, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago have already announced their 14-member teams, and those have already begun playing warm-up matches. Guyana’s Under-17 team has not even been named, and the inclement weather has, moreover, prevented any cricket from being played.

The Inter-County Under-17 Tournament bowled off in Guyana since April 2019, and the four teams involved have each played three matches. West Indies Under-15 player Mavindra Dindyal has been the leading run-scorer in that tournament, with 174 runs in three matches. He looked the most complete batsman, with scores of 104, 03 and 67.

His West Indies Under-15 team mate Rampertab Ramnauth had 109 runs in that tournament. Matthew Nandu, who is likely to lead the Guyana Under-17 team, had scored 103 runs in that tournament. He

ricket fans in the United States are excited about the two upcoming MyTeam11 Twenty20 Internationals between West Indies and India on August 3 and 4 at the Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida. Cricket West Indies ticket solutions provider, Zoonga, reported record gross ticket sales for a single West Indies cricket match over a 24-hour online sales period. “Nearly all of our premium seats and mound access seats have been sold with over 8,000 tickets sold across the two T20Is in just over 24 hours,” said CWI commercial director Dominic Warne. “Such has been the demand that we’re releasing almost another 5000 tickets for each day’s play, with 4600 additional covered and uncovered bleacher seats on sale from 28th June. We’ve also extended the mounds area to fit in another 300 places. Fans will continue to have the opportunity to buy a double-header bundle for the two games at a 10 per cent discount to individual day tickets,” he continued. Tickets for the India Tour of the West Indies 2019 – sponsored

by MyTeam11 and co-powered by Skoda – went on sale to the public on Monday 24 June. Fans can get their tickets to all

T

hails from Canada, and is the youngest player to be drafted in the Global T20 Canada, where he will be in the dressing rooms, rubbing shoulders with Chris Gayle and Andre Russell.

Sarwan Chaitnarine, another star performer with the bat, scored 109 runs in that tournament; and other performers who should be included are Sheldon Charles, Andre Seepersaud, Chanderpaul Ramraj, Zeynul Ramsammy, Niran Bissu, Marvan Prashad and Daniel Mottoo.

In addition to the inter-county tournament played in April, the Guyana Select Under-17 Team played in both the 3-day and 1-day formats of the Inter-County Under-19 tournament in April/May. That tournament, which was highly competitive, was used as preparation for the Guyana Under-17 team.

The 2019 CWI Regional Tournament is slated for play from July 4 to July 15 in Trinidad and Tobago. With the tournament slated to commence in a matter of days, the team ought to be announced shortly, and players would have to be match ready.

Barbados are defending champions, while Guyana finished third in 2018. (Brandon Corlette)

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eight matches for the Tour via the “Buy Tickets” button on the West Indies website – www.windiescricket.com - including the two MyTeam11 T20Is in the United States and the two MyTeam11 Tests which jump starts the two teams’ participation in the ICC World Test Championship. Local box office sales in the host territories start approximately two weeks in advance of each leg of the Tour with the list of opening dates being:“We’re also seeing promising early ticket sales in Trinidad and Guyana for the ODIs and T20Is. This is going to be an exciting Series against the #1 team in T20I, ODI and Test Cricket. We’re urging our West Indies fans to come out and rally behind the team to create the legendary Caribbean atmosphere which our Men in maroon thrive in,” said Warne. Tickets for children aged 12 and under are free with the purchase of an adult ticket for the mound and fan zone areas at all matches.

Senior citizens – aged 60-plus – on presentation of a form of national photo identification at local box offices are also eligible for free tickets while stocks last for all matches, except the two MyTeam11 Twenty20 Internationals in the United States. (CWI)

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saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

23

Will this be Windies’ poorest show at a Cricket World Cup? Brandon Corlette asks

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poorest yet in World Cup history.

This Jason Holder-led West Indies team have hitherto won only one of the seven matches played in their 2019 World Cup campaign; whereas, in their 2015 campaign, they had won three matches out of six, and in the 2011 campaign, they had won three matches. They had managed four wins in the 2007 campaign, and three wins in the 2003 campaign; whereas, in the 1999 campaign, they had recorded

Prior to this 2019 debacle, the West Indies have demonstrated an ability to win matches. They levelled the ODI bilateral series against England, beat New Zealand in a warmup match, and bounced out Pakistan for an easy win. But that all seems to have happened in a past lifetime, and the West Indies have not tasted victory since May 31, almost one month ago.

Chris Gayle’s farewell has been gatecrashed. He badly wanted to be in the team that wins the World Cup, but all hope f o r that is

lost, and he is now hoping for a good send-off in the Home Series against India.

Speaking of hope, West Indies’ gifted batsman Shai Hope has been below par with the bat. He commenced his World Cup campaign being rated world’s number four batsman, but has failed to live up to expectations.

Gayle is the only West Indies batsman to surpass 200 runs in this World Cup, while Hope is tailing with 192 runs. The dynamic duo of Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer have scored 191 and 189 respectively.

Carlos Brathwaite can seemingly perform to his optimum only every two years; and he certainly did that when he became the first man from the Caribbean to score a century in this 2019 World Cup. Holder, who has made a lot of errors as captain, has also not been up to standard with the bat, after scoring a double century in Test cricket and stamping his

he jaded Team West Indies are certainly off the radar in terms of gaining qualification for cricket’s global showpiece, the International Cricket Council’s (ICC’s) 2019 Cricket World Cup. They will, however, play Sri Lanka and Afghanistan in the two remaining matches in which they conclude a poor World Cup campaign. Their match against Sri Lanka will be played on Monday July 1, while they oppose Afghanistan on Thursday July 4.

When the first three World Cup tournaments were played, three wins.

West Indies were a dominant T h i s force, winning the title for 2 0 1 9 the first two editions; but tournament the quality of their play will see the began to deteriorate West Indies from 1999, and playing a total of in the last five nine matches, thus the editions of cricket’s most wins possible most prestigious for their entire tournament, campaign is they have, at best, three. If they turned in pedestrian lose one performances. If of these they re m a i n i n g lose matches, these they would Shai Hope, after one of his h a v e many failures recorded remaining their poorest showing in two matches in this 2019 World the last five editions of Cup campaign, their showing would the World Cup. The inconsistent duo of Ashley Nurse and Carlos Brathwaite certainly be remembered as the

Guyana National Cycling Championships main event set for Sunday

authority as an all-rounder.

Sheldon Cottrell has been doing fairly well with the ball, taking 11 wickets thus far in the tournament, while Oshane Thomas has taken seven wickets.

Kemar Roach, most experienced West Indies seamer in the tour, has also been impressive when his limited opportunities present themselves.

What has been the problem with the West Indies this World Cup? Team West Indies have certainly not been consistent. they lacked the ability to dominate at critical moments, and they lacked the ability to dominate when placed in strong positions.

Team West Indies also do not have a quality spin-bowler, and with the exception of Gayle, no West Indies spinner has taken a wicket.

West Indies batsmen have had starts that surpassed 50 ten times, but only once did a batsman convert that into three figures.

The batsmen have lacked the ability to bat ‘deep’. Pooran and Hetmyer have always looked promising in this World Cup, but have not batted ‘deep’ enough.

With two matches remaining, and with ignominy staring them in the face, the West Indies will have to find solutions for these problems, especially as they prepare for the Home Series against India.

ExxonMobil U-14 Schools’ Football Tournament continues today

Part of last week’s action in the girls’ tournament

T

Some of the best cyclists in the country will be on show in Sunday’s humdinger

A

fter some intriguing racing events during the last week, the final event of the Guyana National Cycling Championships, which will pedal off tomorrow, Sunday June 30, 2019, will feature the country’s best cyclists battling in the Elite Male/Seniors Road Race.

This race will commence at 7:30h at Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown, and will travel to Moblissa Hill on the SoesdykeLinden Highway before returning to Homestretch Avenue for the finish, covering a distance of 120 miles.

In the Time Trials’ events of these championships held on Saturday last, Briton John emerged champion in the Senior Males’ category, while Team Evolution’s Denise Jeffery did likewise in the Females’ category. Ajay Gopilall emerged champion in the Juniors’ category, while Jonathan Ramsuchit won the Juveniles’ category. And

Paul Choo-Wee-Nam emerged champion in the Veterans/Masters’ category.

The day after those Time Trials, Sunday last, races in the above categories pedalled off, and some spectacular finishes resulted.

Team Evolution’s Andy Spencer emerged champion in the Veterans/Masters’ category, while Denise Jeffery won in the Females’ category. Ajay Gopilall won the Juniors’ category, while Mario Washington won the Juveniles’ category.

Cycling stars Briton and Jamaul John, Michael Anthony, Andre ‘Padlock’ Greene, Walter Grant Stewart and Paul De Nobrega, among others, will be on show tomorrow, Sunday June 30, 2019, when this scintillating event pedals off at 7:30h from outside the head offices of the National Sports Commission on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown. (Brandon Corlette)

here have, so far, been some eventful showdowns in the second edition of the ExxonMobil Girls’ and Boys’ Under-14 Football tournament, but play in these tournaments will continue today at the Ministry of Education Ground on Georgetown’s Carifesta Avenue.

Round 2 of the action in the girls’ tournament will commence at 10:00hrs with Ann’s Grove battling Richard Ishmael and Annandale duking it out with Dolphin. At 10:50hrs, Uitvlugt will then try to see off New Campbellville while Lodge will attempt to overcome Tucville Secondary.

At 11:40hrs, East Ruimveldt will do battle with the in-form Charlestown Secondary, and St Mary will take on St Stanislaus.

The final two matches, which commence at 12:30hrs, will see Ann’s Grove battling Dolphin and Annandale tackling Richard Ishmael.

In the boys’ tournament, twelve matches are scheduled for round 3. The first two matchups start at 12:00hrs, and will see Plaisance Orphanage taking on St Mary’s, and Richard Ishmael opposing New Campbellville.

At 12:50hrs, North Ruimveldt would lock horns with Annandale Secondary and Brickdam Secondary would battle Cummings Lodge.

At 13:40hrs, Ann’s Grove would attempt to defeat the in-form Lodge Secondary, while Tucville and St Stanislaus College do battle.

From 14:30hrs, Carmel Secondary and President’s College would battle for supremacy, while Marian Academy would seek to defeat

Uitvlugt.

At 1 5 : 2 0 h r s , Charlestown Secondary will battle Golden Grove for supremacy, while East Ruimveldt would undertake to overthrow St John’s.

Culminating the afternoon’s action, Tutorial would aim to demolish Kingston, while Queenstown Secondary would attempt to thrash Dolphin Secondary.

For both the boys’ and girls’ tournaments, the top two teams from the six groups, along with the best four third-placed teams, will advance to the Round-of-16.

In the inaugural tournament, in 2018, Chase’s Academy were the male winners while Charlestown Secondary took home the female championship. As the first prize, the winning schools will have opportunity to choose a school project that they would like to see completed.

There is also an addition of 4 female teams, hence another group has been added, which makes the female tournament a 12-team competition.

The Ministry of Public Health will be rewarding both the boys’ and girls’ player-of-theweek with a haversack and 6 books as part of their efforts to encourage physical activities that lead to a healthier life.

saturday, JUNE 29, 2019

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

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ExxonMobil U-14 Schools’ Football Tournament continues today Page 19

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