Guyana Times Tuesday January 7, 2019

P FITUG slams P Govt’s “Decade of Development” promise

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…says “good life” promise not fulfilled Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4158

THE BEACON OF TRUTH TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

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Irfaan Ali calls out Govt for broken promise on affordable housing

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

P8 GWI worker charged for killing ex-lover’s boyfriend

Page 3

…says a PPP Govt will embark on aggressive, affordable housing drive

$134.2B tax concessions in 2018 ...doubled under APNU/AFC Govt – AG report ...significant amount for luxury vehicles

Page 7

3 children rescued from Berbice burning Berbice house businessman beaten, robbed by armed bandits

Audit Office P13 complains of unimplemented recommendations

Page 14

‘Thieving’ monkey row ends in murder …shop owner stabbed to

Page 12 Page 9

death by neighbour

Govt attempting to use criminal justice system as a political instrument

…former PPP MP to be charged for sexual assault

See story on page 14

Lindener jailed for 38 years for rape of young relative P10

Tractor driven by ‘drunk’ teen crushes man to P12 death Passenger P2 collapses, dies while boarding plane at CJIA

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FITUG slams Govt’s “Decade Passenger collapses, dies while boarding plane at CJIA of Development” promise

…says “good life” promise not fulfilled

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he Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has criticised President Granger’s latest promise of a “Decade of Development” to Guyanese.

President David Granger

The “Decade of Development” plans were outlined in the President’s New Year’s address to the nation. However, FITUG, on Monday took a swipe at David Granger highlighting the struggles and challenges faced by Guyanese.

“For the Guyanese working-people and their families, it is hardly any time for excitement. It is more a time for anxiety and despair, as they struggle on a daily ba-

sis to make their meagre ends meet,” the statement said.

FITUG further lambasted the President for his Government’s failed policies, which, according to the workers union, have cost the country severe economic hardship since they assumed office in 2015.

“Mr Granger said that the 2020s would be a Decade of Development. He told the nation that economic growth will be accelerated as the “…the major sectors become stronger and more resilient…”. But it is the very Granger Administration, by its very policies, that has negatively affected several major sectors.”

The union added that Guyanese have seen the destruction in the sugar sector, stating that the Federation is aware of the massive hikes in fees for land and for drainage in the agricultural sector. “There has been the introduction of taxes on agricultural implements and inputs. We have seen how the poor and/or non-maintenance of interior roadways have deleteriously affected forestry and mining.”

The trade union also ex-

FITUG President Carvil Duncan

pressed scepticism about President Granger’s promise in which he said: “…education and healthcare will continue to improve…” since it is this very Government which created the burdens of imposing taxes on medicines and private health care while also failing to grapple with the issue of drug shortages at medical facilities across the country. The Union also stated that there are too many persons who cannot afford to send their children to school and these are matters which the Government has failed to address during its time in office and in fact, created themselves.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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male passenger, a citizen of the British Virgin Islands, on Sunday morning collapsed and died while boarding an outgoing American Airlines flight to Miami at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

Dead is Kodzo Ekpe.

Guyana Times understands that Ekpe, who was a professor at the St Croix Educational Complex, and former Principal of Montserrat SDA School, was on vacation in Guyana with his wife to celebrate his mother-in-law’s 80th birthday and their family’s reunion.

This newspaper was

told that attempts were made to revive him and he was rushed to the Diamond

Dead: Kodzo Ekpe

Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Based on reports from the Public Health Ministry, reports received from the

Port Health Officer revealed that best efforts were made by the licensed health care provider on duty to save the passenger’s life.

This newspaper was told that just before he collapsed, Ekpe complained to his wife about feeling unwell on his way to the boarding gate before deciding to utilise his self-care nebuliser, since he was asthmatic. He, however, collapsed and the Port Health Officer was alerted.

By that time, another passenger had already begun to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) on the unresponsive passenger.

An investigation has been launched.

NEWS

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, January 7 – 03:00h and 14:30h-16:00h and Wednesday, January 8 – 03:30h and 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Irfaan Ali calls out Govt for broken promise on affordable housing …says a PPP Govt will embark on aggressive, affordable housing drive number of house lots distributed in previous years under the PPP/C Administration.

In the CH&PA’s 2013 Annual Report, its programme performance assessment had indicated that 4417 house lots were allocated, just shy of the 5900 target.

In the area of conveyance of transports and titles, the Authority was able to achieve its targets for successive years. The report shows that in 2017, 2076 titles were processed and 3498 were distributed. A target of 2000 was set for both activities. It is, however, a reduc-

Tuesday, January 7 – 13:35h-15:05h and Wednesday, January 8 –14:25h-15:55h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny conditions will prevail during the day.

Clear skies are expected in the evening.

Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Easterly to East NorthEasterly between 1.78 metres and 4.92 metres.

High Tide: 14:04h maximum height of

reaching a 2.43 metres.

Low Tide: 07:36h and 20:07h reaching minimum heights of 0.91 metre and 0.74 metre.

PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Dr Irfaan Ali flocked by supporters on Sunday at the Party’s campaign launch at Kitty Market Square, Georgetown

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aking into account the current Government’s lacklustre housing drive, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Presidential Candidate, Dr Irfaan Ali has promised that should his party win power, it would ensure affordable housing is made more accessible.

This was revealed on Sunday at the launch of the PPP/C campaign for the upcoming General and Regional Elections. Dr Ali pointed out that in 2015, one of A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) campaign slogans was “housing for all”.

“Our programme is about improving the well-being of our people through improved health, education, social services, affordable housing … imagine this government came to office and they said they will give everyone housing,” he said.

“To date, they have not developed a single new house lot. That is their track record that they are hiding from, that they cannot speak about. So, our programme will create a future that is sustainable for our children.”

Records have shown that the distribution of house lots has declined since the change of Government in 2015, despite the fact that the demand has not decreased. This was evident in the 2017 Annual Report of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), which was laid in the National Assembly last year.

The report shows that a total of only 1131 house lots were allocated in that year for qualified applicants. In fact, the report states that the original allocation target for that year was mere-

Turnkey houses built under the PPP/C Government

ly 1000.

This does not compare favourably with the previous year, during which – according to the report – 2020 house lots were allocated, an improvement on the original target of 1100. This includes 625 low to moderate income house lots and 1395 middle to high-income house lots.

But these years’ figures pale in comparison to the

tion from 2016, when 2212 titles were processed and 4874 allocated.

Again, however, 2017’s figures are unable to stand up to CH&PA’s performance under the former Administration. In 2013, the PPP planned to process 5000 titles and exceeded that target to process 5326 titles. In addition, it distributed 3643 titles that year.

At its end-of-year press conference in December, the CH&PA had announced that for last year approximately 1300 house lots were allocated countrywide.

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guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

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

Decency must be demonstrated

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he March 2020 elections campaign is truly underway. Both the APNU/AFC Government and the Opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) have already officially launched their campaigns, while flags are increasingly fluttering in villages and along major roadways. In addition, intimidation and assault on activists of the PPPC have been reported, and are engaging the attention of the Police.

There were many reports of PPPC flags being removed from the poles on which they were mounted in various parts of the country.

Following that, on Friday last, a group of PPP/C activists who were traversing through Laing Avenue were taunted and assaulted by persons believably supportive of APNU/AFC. Some of the PPPC activists had to seek medical attention following the incident.

There is no doubt that some areas across the country are generally identified with either the Government or the Opposition.

In the videos, which are now viral, the assault in Laing Avenue, Georgetown is clear and unprovoked. The only plausible reason is that PPPC supporters, in the process of conducting road announcements designed to bring awareness to the Party’s elections activities, were in an area predominantly supportive of the APNU/AFC. Given what transpired in Laing Avenue, it seems indisputable that supporters of the PPPC were not welcomed there at the behest of those supportive of APNU/AFC. This is not the first time that PPPC activists have either been prevented from accessing, or removed from, areas that are occupied by APNU/AFC supporters.

A few days ago, PPPC activists and their vehicle were reportedly stoned while in the process of mounting flags in the Buxton area.

Simply put, it seems that PPP/C supporters are not allowed to access areas known for their support of APNU/AFC. That is not only unbecoming and unacceptable, but is a direct assault on democracy.

Guyana is for Guyanese, and all must be able to have free access anywhere. None should be prevented, and none must prevent others.

There is no denying that tensions are exacerbated during an elections period. However, that is not an excuse to assault political activists who were peacefully executing their civic duty. There is no denying that the assault on the PPPC’s activists was unacceptable and unprovoked.

From what seems evident from the videos, the Police, after arriving, appeared not to be in control of the situation, and given what played out, it could have been worse had those who were attacked retaliated.

Guyana’s history reflects the sad results of political unrest, which none would want in these modern times. All involved therefore have a responsibility to ensure every effort is expended to effect peaceful elections. In that context, it is noteworthy that APNU/AFC’s campaign is under the theme of decency and honesty.

One therefore would have expected that, in the wake of the assault on PPP/C activists in Laing Avenue, the president and/ or senior members of the Government would have immediately condemned what was clearly an indecent act by Government’s supporters. The delayed and solicited response from a senior official two days later was not only far from an outright condemnation, but one that seems to justify the assault.

That leads to speculation as to whether APNU/AFC is reluctant to scold its own, even in the interest of national harmony. The noticeable silence over the two days could be a form of condoning the incident.

More so, the lack of an outright condemnation could be viewed as conflicting with APNU/AFC’s campaign theme of decency and honesty.

For many, decency in that context would be to honestly condemn such acts. At the time of writing this column, the President had not condemned the assault that took place in Laing Avenue. At the launch of the PPPC’s campaign at Kitty last Sunday, APNU/AFC flags were seen fluttering on the lamp poles directly next to the stage and on others in the vicinity. On the day of the said rally, reports indicate that APNU/AFC flags were being mounted in the said vicinity even as PPP/C operatives were finalizing arrangements at the site.

The point to note is the APNU/AFC flags were not removed before, during or after the rally by persons affiliated to the PPPC, or by anyone else for that matter. Also, the actions alluded to on the morning of the rally by those affiliated to APNU/AFC could be a direct provocation of PPPC supporters.

No one interfered with the APNU/AFC operatives as they mounted their Party’s flags in the vicinity of the rally site last Sunday.

That’s a complete contrast to what occurred in Laing Avenue last Friday. The burning question for many is: Why are one particular set of Guyanese being intimidated and assaulted during this period?

History may reveal a similar pattern in the past.

What is imperative is for the President, as the leader of his party and the coalition, to forthrightly and unconditionally condemn the attack on the PPP/C supporters. In the absence of that development, it would be difficult to trust his campaign theme, since decency must be demonstrated, and not merely uttered.

Tourists walk in front of an ice sculpture ahead of the opening of the Harbin International Snow and Sculpture Festival in Harbin, in China’s northeast Heilongjiang province (AFP photo)

What is a “decade of development” from a Guyanese perspective?

Dear Editor, There is certainly a buzz around the phrase, “decade of development”.

What is a “decade of development” from a Guyanese perspective and who can best launch it?

To answer these questions, one has to look at the concept of what it does to free a nation from the shackle of racial, ethnic and religious oppression using an attitude of mind that sets a specific tone. How about a Guyana that uses its natural resources and wealth to lift all boats (in this case our people) economically, socially and mentally? How about using the resources of the State to show the entire nation how “not to practice” nepotism, favouritism, and political marginalisation so that more of our people can be empowered to live a more dignified life and are allowed to get ahead based on merit rather than which political leader you are connected to? How about harnessing the dwindling entrepreneurial skills to unleash the nation’s true potential?

While one can find very little to disagree with on this concept, one has to beware not any “jankelaar” can proceed along this path. You must have a track record of human development to give credibility to your agenda.

Therefore, it is imperative to examine the record of Mr David Granger over the last 4 years 6 months to conclude if he does have the integrity to speak of a “decade of development”. I will only use two examples today because of space, but I have more than 120 other examples to support my conclusion that he is unfit and unsuitable to lead Guyana ever again.

1. Rural Guyana – sugar is intertwined with the livelihood of the people in rural Berbice and Demerara, yet Mr Granger chose to ignore the conclusions of his CoI and shut down 4 factories. Any child could have told him that the outcome from that decision would

have created a socio-economic implosion in rural areas. The outcome of that Granger decision was the drastic reduction in sugar production, which at the end of 2019 was only 90,246 tonnes (59 per cent decline from 2014), the lowest production since 1926. In the last full year of the PPP/C Government, sugar production was 216,186 tonnes and in those days that was considered a poor production. Today the head office cost at GuySuCo is now 34 per cent of total operating cost compared to 20 per

million since Mr Granger took over.

Even the worse of the PPP Presidents (Mr Ramotar) achieved better results.

With the agriculture sector being one of the main employers and the reason for our future, it must play a crucial role in promoting human development and contributing to the reduction of poverty. Any investment in this sector is vital but the evidence reveals it is not happening under Mr Granger because the farmers have no confidence in him. Such a situation has contribut-

cent in 2014, and this strategy of Mr Granger was designed to make the industry more efficient? The human development wreckage left in the wake of Mr Granger’s decision was nothing but heartless and inhumane.

2. Investments in agriculture – The graph below as sourced from the Bank of Guyana illustrates the situation with respect to the importation of agricultural machinery. Investing in capital equipment is a pre-requisite for the development of any economy and in Guyana’s case, the agriculture sector is key. The importation of agriculture machinery declined by some US$30

ed to an increase in economic disparity and human deprivation that now exist in at least 1 in 4 homes across the nation.

So while Mr Granger talks about the “good life”, the reality for the ordinary people illustrates something very different. What is clear is that Mr Granger does not have a clue what he is doing and is incompatible with the process of implement policies to strongly influence the quality of life for the people in a positive manner. The evidence is overwhelming to prove that he is a policy dullard.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

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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

Institutionalised deafness supported by square pegs Dear Editor, The presidential candidate for the PPP/C for the upcoming elections, Dr Irfaan Ali, in his speech at the party’s election campaign launch on January 5 at the Kitty Market Square, pledged to support the growth and development of the vulnerable sections of Guyanese society with their unique needs. So pleasing it was to hear the recognition that each section of our society has unique needs that his subsequent reference to supporting single ‘mothers’ jarred like nails against a chalkboard.

It is 2020 and we cannot continue to ignore a reality that we have single fathers in this country who need support just like single mothers do. Everybody and their dog have rights in this country except single fathers. The continued invisibility of single fathers at the

political level creates severe injustice in Guyanese society with severe consequences for the lives of children.

As Dr Ali acknowledged, every section of society has unique problems. We have a ‘child-father’ phenomenon in some sections of society where fathers are often not present, hence the need to support single mothers. In other sections of our society, we have problems where mothers have a nomadic lifestyle and abandon or neglect children or leave them with their father or in the care of extended family with a multitude of opportunities for child sexual abuse.

In some sections of our society, mothers push their children into prostitution.

In some cases, mothers are just weak-minded and careless, while the fathers offer more disciplined upbringing of children. If we do not understand the diverse reality,

What is a...

FROM PAGE 4

After half of a decade as the President of Guyana and with such a tragic record, why would Guyana want to further destroy itself and give him a second chance over a new decade?

Are we silly enough to give a policy failure more time to now bury us all six feet under when it comes to our human development?

The facts will show that after spending more than $1400 billion over the last half of a decade, Mr Granger has very little to show as newly conceived projects. All he has done is spend money on completed PPP/C conceived projects and on his coterie of advisers. He can claim D’Urban Park, but can the Guyanese people eat D’Urban Park? Does it give them health, strength,

wealth, wisdom and happiness? Mr Granger has left a legacy where his version of the “economic trickle-down” has left the widest gap between the rich and the poor in the entire history since independence. Because of the massive distribution of wealth to this new cabal of PNC multi-millionaires numbering less than 500 persons, we find that more people are now living in poverty. The latest estimates speak to some 40 per cent of our people who are now living in poverty.

The evidence is overwhelming, Mr Granger and his APNU cabal are certainly not the people to launch the decade of development.

With regards, Sasenarine Singh

then the solutions that we are offering as a society are too simplistic and, therefore, can only be ineffective and unjust.

When a Government implements solutions that are unjust, then we have oppression and injustice in society.

I have personal experience of a Government agency unable to understand or hear anything from a male perspective – institutionalised deafness supported by

square pegs. All the concerns and familiar tales of females being abused find a willing ear because the storyline is a familiar one, rendering agencies gullible and their recommendations to Police and courts lack credibility, producing more injustice in society.

Beyond the invisibility of single fathers in our society, men, in general, have little support from the Government. As a society,

we are very good with persecuting males. Prisons are full. Rum shops are the places where men can find comfort and support and understanding. As a country that produces a large number of violent and self-destructive males, we need to invest more thought into our policies to offer the kind of intervention that is critically needed. If we do not have the human resources in Guyana to address this

problem, then recruit experts and specialists. Surely the suffering of the people is what Government aims to address? At a minimum, I hope that we can develop our own unique solutions in Guyana to stop the gender discrimination against single fathers and stop the assault on fatherhood.

Sincerely, Sandra Khan

One can define level of civilisation in a State by the way it treats its elderly Dear Editor, Recently, I have become aware that whenever and whatever oil money arrives, senior citizens will not benefit much from this new largesse because Guyanese life expectancy is about 71.6 years for women and 65.4 for men. It should also be noted that only approximately 5.4 per cent of our population is over 65 years.

Now, this is patently unfair to the elderly. They are the ones who remained behind to weather the storms.

They gave their youth to this country, and did not “cut and run”. They stayed behind to hold our country together, to experience the painful hard times, to ensure stability, to keep the productive machinery functioning – whether as managers, field workers, civil servants, scientists, teachers, Private Sector employees, and all the other areas of service.

I am suggesting that ways and methods be found to ensure that some tangible benefits reach our senior citizens. Such direct financial support could be in the form of an increase of their pension from $20,500 per month to whatever the minimum wage per person is at the relevant time. VAT could be removed from every purchaser provable (by ID card) to be over 65. That most iniquitous Property Tax could be expunged from the law as it relates to the elderly homeowners. Payments for crossing rivers via bridges and Airport Exit Taxes and Airport Security Service Charges (built into airline tickets) could also be removed for senior citizens.

For the foreseeable future, it will be only five per cent of the population which has served this country well and, in some cases, beyond the call of duty, who will be

receiving such benefits.

I call on caring leaders/political parties/ Governments to advocate and implement serious actions to improve the standard of living of our seniors, whose current lives may not be receiving the great attention it deserves. Place your commitment, in this regard, in your respective manifes-

tos. If that is already too late, then state your intentions publicly from your pre-elections platforms.

One can define the level of civilisation in a State by the way it treats its elderly.

Sincerely, Senior citizen (name and address provided)

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

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Foundation

Social skills everyone should know

Staying on task Whether you’re a child completing a homework assignment or an adult trying to meet a deadline at work, staying on task is an important social skill.

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Introducing yourself eing able to introduce yourself ?confidently to ?others is a skill ?we use ?throughout our lives. Practising the skill of “introducing yourself” can be a ?valuable and fun ?activity.

Following instructions Following instructions is a basic social skill and one of the most important a child will learn.

Asking for help Things don’t always go according to plan, so teaching your child ?how to ask others for help is an ?important social skill that should be taught early on.

Accepting “no” for an answer Your children must recognise your authority as a parent, just as they need to recognise the authority of teachers and other adults.

Disagreeing appropriately Disagreements are a part of life, and everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion – even children. However, disagreeing appropriately is a skill that must be learnt and practised

Showing appreciation Showing appreciation is something we could all do a little bit more often. It’s a simple thing, but it can have a lasting effect on the person who receives it.

Making an apology We all make mistakes, and we all hurt others at one time or another. Learning how to apologise is an important skill that your child will use in school and well beyond.

Accepting consequences or criticism When a child does something wrong or disobeys a parent or teacher, he or she will face criticism or other negative consequences, such as the loss of a privilege. It is important that your child accept these consequences.

Controlling emotions Childhood can be filled with disappointment and stress when ?things don’t go a child’s way. Learning to control emotions is a social skill that can help children deal with situations that make them feel angry or upset. (boystown.org)

NEWS

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$134.2B tax concessions in 2018 ...doubled under APNU/AFC Govt – AG report ...significant amount for luxury vehicles

President David Granger

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hen the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) was in power, the then Opposition – APNU/AFC, was intensely critical of the concessions that were being granted to the Private Sector. But the Audit Office has now found that concessions under the current Government have now eclipsed previous years.

According to the Audit Report of 2018, some $134.2 billion in concessions were granted for 2018, compared to just $64.3 billion in 2017. According to Auditor General Deodat Sharma, this was a 91.97 per cent increase. In fact, the $134 billion it waived represents a large chunk of all monies collected by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for 2018.

The report notes that a total of 9359 companies benefitted from $104.7 billion in tax concessions. In 2017, this number was 7740 companies, which received $36.4 billion in concessions.

In 2014, the last full year that the PPP was in power, there were 8105 companies who benefitted from a mere $41.5 billion, while the sum was $34.4 billion in 2013.

“An analytical review of the total tax exemption granted for the past three years has shown a decrease in the number of exemptions granted. The value of

the exemption granted decreased from the year 2015 to 2016 by $36.300 billion or 39.3 per cent. However, for the past two years, 2017 and 2018, there has been an increase of the tax exemption values by 37.5 per cent and 43.4 per cent, respectively,” the report states.

Concessions are usually granted to companies in order to facilitate investments that create jobs and value to the local economy.

The Auditor General found, however, that for 2018 “luxurious and modern vehicles attracted great tax exemption of which no payment of taxes was required.”

Moreover, the audit report states that after an analysis of the concessions granted it was found that these lucky individuals paid a total of $5.3 billion in taxes, just four per cent of the billions in taxes that were waived.

When given a chance to respond to the astronomical increase in tax exemptions, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) attributed this to the oil and gas sector and the fact that several investors entered into agreements with the Government.

Other conditional exemptions

The audit report shows that under the category of conditional tax exemptions, 270 foreign-funded projects accounted for $2.5 billion in concessions, while Ministries and Government departments accounted for $4.4 billion.

Meanwhile, churches and charitable organisations accounted for $1.8 billion in concessions. The audit report also included the Auditor General’s findings when the records submitted by the Guyana Office for Investments (GO-Invest) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission

(GGMC) were perused.

“In accordance with the Investment Act of 2004, an audit of incentives granted to an investor is required to be carried out annually by the Auditor General.

According to the record obtained from GO-Invest and GGMC, thirty-seven and twelve incentives were granted respectively,” the report states.

“Of the thirty-seven incentives granted by GOInvest, only seven were processed, one was denied and one was cancelled by the Authority. The total taxes exempted for the seven incentives processed were $87.962 million, which is 0.8 per cent of the total tax exempted under the category Companies/Businesses. Of the twelve incentives granted by GGMC, only one was processed by the Authority of which total tax exempted

for the year was zero.”

According to GRA, it received 37 investment agreements from GO-Invest in 2018, but only 33 met all the requirements and were approved. The remaining four were approved in 2019. In terms of GGMC, GRA stated that it received 11 applications for tax exemptions. Nine were approved in 2018, while two were approved in 2019.

When it comes to unconditional tax exemptions, some $17.9 billion was waived by GRA. This is also an increase from the 2017 amount ($16.3 billion), 2014 ($9.860 billion) and 2013 ($9.802 billion).

Remigrants

The remigrant scheme has its genesis in a drive to encourage overseas-based Guyanese to return from the diaspora to contribute to

GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia

their homeland. The current Government had claimed that the scheme was abused previously and had vowed to tighten up controls, while paving the way for more youths to access the scheme.

However, the Auditor General documented that 95 per cent of those who were granted re-migrant status and got tax exemptions were between the ages of 55 to 76. Defending this, GRA noted that there is no age limit for re-migrant status.

The AG also documented instances of leakages in 2018. Of the 188 applications processed in that year, two remigrants did not own vehicles they were importing for the six months stipulated by law. In addition, another remigrant applied for a vehicle to be imported that was in the name of someone else.

“Two persons were classified as re-migrants and received tax exemption totalling $25.829 million.

However, they were not Guyanese by birth. In addition, the husband of one of these individuals also gained re-migrant status and received tax exemption totalling $702,968.”

In explaining the discrepancies, GRA pointed out that they process exemptions based on the recommendations from the Ministry of Citizenship.

Moreover, they noted that there were misunderstandings regarding the other supposed leakages.

Psychiatric ward nurses to get additional training

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urses attached to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC) Psychiatric Ward are expected to undergo continuous and additional training to further prepare them to deal with patients.

Guyana Times was told that the training process is expected to begin on Monday. One of the nurses told this publication that the psychiatric ward is considered by many of the staff as the “most challenging section to work”.

“To tell you the truth, it is a very hard place to work, most workers don’t like the idea of working there because you always have to be on the alert,” the staff said.

Another said: “You cannot lapse because these people you are dealing with are people suffering from mental illnesses. It requires a lot of patience and attentiveness.”

This publication was also told that staffers would sometimes feel pres-

sured when dealing with mentally ill patients.

The training, which will be conducted by senior officials of the Psychiatric Unit, is expected to run for five days every four months.

Meanwhile, the Psychiatric Unit

offers services both on an in-patient and out-patient basis. The Unit is specialised in treating patients according to their level of diagnosis. Up to this point, the Unit houses some 400 patients, while there are other persons who also visit the clinic daily.

8 NEWS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GWI worker charged for killing ex-lover’s boyfriend

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Guyana Water Inc (GWI) employee, who allegedly killed his ex-lover’s new boyfriend on December 30 was slapped with a murder charge and hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Nigel Thomas of Lot 136 James and Victoria Streets, Albouystown, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. It is alleged that on December 30, 2019, at Guyhoc, Georgetown, he murdered Kyle Chase.

The 20-year-old man was represented by Attorney-atLaw Adrian Thompson, who told the court that his client received injuries to his head and was a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Charged: Nigel Thomas

According to Thompson, his client does not know anything about the victim’s death.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield informed the court

that at about 23:00h on the day in question, the victim was at the female’s home when the accused went there. The prosecutor said that upon seeing 23-year-old Chase, the accused became enraged and an argument erupted. The court was told that the accused pulled out a screwdriver and dealt the victim several stabs to the neck. According to the prosecutor, the injured man was rushed to the David Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The court also heard that the accused received minor injuries and was treated. The prosecutor stated that the matter was reported to the East La Penitence Police Station and the accused was arrested. The

A change…

Dead: Kyle Chase

court also heard that the two men are known to each other.

Thomas was remanded to prison and the case will continue on January 28, 2020.

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…is gonna come s an old blues fan, your Eyewitness has always been moved by the poignancy of the lyrics melded with the soulful wail of pain in the songs that had accumulated through centuries of oppression and domination. As he listened to the speech of the PPP’s Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali at their launch on Sunday afternoon, that old gem by Sam Cooke came into his mind: “A change is gonna come.”

You young’uns out there mightn’t know of Sam, but he had just the silkiest voice God ever created. And if you never heard the song just google it, Dear Readers, and you’ll understand why your Eyewitness was so moved. “I was born by a river, oh man, in this little old tent, oh/ Just like this river, I’ve been running ever since/ It’s been a long, long time coming/ But I know, but I know, a change is gonna come/ Ooo yes it is.”

That Sam was killed not long after he recorded the song in 1963, when MLK was rallying the long downtrodden Blacks of the American South to stand up and be recognised by the “content of their character and not the colour of their skin”. “A change is gonna come” became an anthem of what could be. It was a certainty that the barriers keeping Americans of different races apart for so long would be coming down: a change was gonna come.

Ali had been lambasted by the press for not being particularly articulate – and in fact, rather taciturn - and since this was the first time your Eyewitness was listening to the youthful candidate he was completely blown away by both the content of his speech and his delivery. Very simply, the young man stole the show and at one point seemed to be channelling MLK as he intoned with pitchperfect delivery: “Three score and ten years ago, the PPP was founded and for one brief, glorious moment all of the peoples of our land were united as one!”

The entire theme of his speech was on the tenor of bridging the divisions that he insisted were the major reason Guyana has not lived out its true potential. He was also very candid and – rather rare for a politician – confessed that he was “not perfect” but that he was committed to transforming himself along with the rest of his “Guyanese sisters and brothers” since this was the only way Guyana would be transformed to deal with the serendipitous discovery of oil.

All your stunned Eyewitness could think was that if this young man could live out the meaning of what he spoke, a change is gonna come!!

For sure!! …in (army) circumstances With the PPP’s pick of Brigadier (rtd) Mark Phillips as their Prime Ministerial Candidate, they seem to have pinned the PNC on their back foot! Even though Jagdeo taunted Granger that he was never able to make it to the top position of the Disciplined Forces – being Chief-ofStaff – unlike Brigadier Philips, all the Caretaker President could lamely come back with was “PPP has seen the error of their ways”.

He was referring to fears expressed back in 2015 when Granger insisted on placing a military person in every department of government, as advisors, as Ministers, etc, that he was militarising the government.

They never said that military personnel weren’t qualified for serving in government. It was the numbers they were concerned about: as is said, they were concerned that the “quantitative” would affect the “qualitative”.

Especially, with Granger’s lot, the “qualitative” is the deformed Burnham vision of the armed forces: loyalty to their “Kabaka” before country!

And wasn’t this why Hoyte pipped him with Joe Singh?

Ain’t that a shame!! …in bread and circuses Unlike the PNC, the PPP ran what their MC, Edgehill dubbed a “low-budget” launch. Of course, the PNC had the State’s resources to loot and build up their war chest!!

Ever wondered about all those unaccounted-for billions??

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

9 3 children rescued from burning Berbice house T NEWS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

hree children were rescued from a burning building on Monday morning by their neighbour after their mother allegedly locked them in the house and went to a nearby shop.

The mid-morning fire at Lot 820 Block D Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, left 32-yearold Davanand Manroop and his 25-year-old wife, Bodhrani Manroop, called “Davie” along with their one, two and fouryear-old children homeless.

According to Bodhrani Manroop, she was cooking and made a quick trip to a nearby shop to purchase chicken when the incident occurred.

She said her kerosene oil stove cooks slowly and as a result, she decided to put a pot on to cook rice and then go to a shop situated three lots away to make the

building was owned by Nadia Rammanan. The woman told this publication that on numerous occasions she appealed to Manroop to take her children with her when she is going out. The woman said she was always fearful that the children left in the house unattended could be disastrous.

A c c o r d i n g to Rammanan, the building was covered with fire insurance.

Meanwhile, persons

The couple’s three children that were rescued

returning, she saw fire emanating from her home.

The mother of three said she dropped the chicken and ran to the back door which she had bolted from the outside, leaving the children locked inside.

Meanwhile, Ramdeo Rai, who lives on the other side of the street, told this publication that with the

Davanand Manroop and wife Bodhrani Manroop

purchase.

The shop, she said, was crowded and she spent more time there than anticipated.

She related that as she was

aid of his son, he was able to rescue the children from the burning building.

“I was sitting on the verandah and when I looked

over, I saw fire coming from the one side of the building.

So, I go inside and call my son and we go over and I put him on my shoulder to climb up and go into the verandah and he go in and bring two of the children out...”

He noted that in the process of doing so, “Davie” came running and opened the back door which was bolted from the outside and got the third child out of the burning building.

Manroop also told this publication that she would normally lock the door from the outside when she had to leave home since on one occasion one of her children ventured out of the yard and fell into a nearby drain.

Meanwhile, her husband, Davanand Manroop, who works as a labourer at the nearby lumberyard, is appealing to persons for assistance. He said that they lost everything. The

The aftermath of the fire

interested in assisting the family can make contact

with them on telephone number (592) 669-2395.

FITUG slams Govt’s...

Addressing President Granger’s vision of “…citizens having larger disposable incomes…”, FITUG said: “We find this hard to believe when the Granger Government has sent home thousands of workers and their economic policies [have] resulted in many others losing their jobs.

Moreover, we cannot ignore the pressing tax burdens which have seen taxation rising astronomically since 2015.”

Further, the Union criticised the Government for the increased cost of living while the standard of living has continued to drop.

“By September 2019, food prices, according to the Bureau of Statistics, had increased 6.3 per cent. But more than that, public servants’ right to Collective Bargaining, a right the

APNU/AFC promised to uphold, continues to be disrespected though such rights are enshrined in our laws.

But Mr Granger ignores the thousands of workers in the non-State sector who also desire improved standard of living. Of course, such ignorance is not surprising considering the Government never had much sympathy for workers,” FITUG posited.

Moreover, the Union questioned the President’s promise of “…faster economic growth, increased employment and economic opportunities and larger fiscal revenues” as a result of Guyana’s oil and gas sector.

“Even the estimated 86 per cent economic growth rate for 2020 has been significantly tempered by the IDB to just 39 per cent.

But more importantly, the January 3, Kaieteur News

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FROM PAGE 2

repeated that “…86 per cent of the total value of the reserves will go to the oil companies, while Guyana will get 14 per cent”. It is clear, we got less than the short end of the proverbial stick and the Guyanese people are stuck with a clearly unfavourable arrangement. Even though commercial oil production has commenced, we are clearly unprepared for it as a country. It appears that the Granger Government is stumbling in the dark when it comes to oil and so many other important areas of national life,” FITUG expressed in the statement.

FITUG has strongly condemned the promises and plans that President Granger outlined in his New Year’s address to the nation, which they described as “largely a repetition of the unfulfilled coalition 2015 manifesto”.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lindener jailed for 38 years for rape of young relative A 2 5 - y e a r - o l d Lindener, who was found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a young girl on separate occasions, was on Monday jailed.

A probation report pre-

sented in court revealed that the convicted man, Keon Lawson, and the victim are relatives. The probation officer informed the court that prior to the incidents, the victim was an “above average” student, al-

ways cheerful and interactive. However, this changed following the incidents and the victim’s academic performance became poor and socialising was no longer an interest of hers.

Taking this into account,

Justice Morris-Ramlall considered the prevalence of the crime within Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), together with the fact that Lawson breached the trust of a relative and showed no remorse for his actions.

Convicted: Keon Lawson being escorted by Police ranks following his sentencing on Monday

Lawson of Wismar, Linden, was handed 18 years in jail on the first rape count, and 20 years on the second, which are expected to run concurrently.

The first charge read that between November 1 and 30, 2014, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with a sixyear-old girl.

The second read that on October 6, 2017, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with the said victim, who was nine years old.

According to reports, on the first occasion, the convicted man went over to the child’s home, then proceed-

ed to hold the child, cover her mouth and committed the act.

On the second occasion, the young girl visited Lawson’s home to uplift an item for her mother; however, upon arrival at his premises, he prevented her from leaving and proceeded to rape her.

The child later confided in her teacher about the incidents and the teacher informed the parents and Police.

Attorney-at-Law George Thomas represented Lawson while Prosecutors Teriq Mohamed and Nafeeza Baig presented the State’s case.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Suspected double suicide

Family shocked after couple found dead in bathtub

Mother of Kevin Singh, Kuntie Tekchand

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he family of 26-yearold Kevin Singh, whose lifeless body was discovered in a hotel bathtub with his girlfriend – Subrina Nandram – on Sunday evening, is now left with many questions surrounding the death of the couple.

Kuntie Tekchand, the mother of Singh, told Guyana Times on Monday that she is still trying to accept the fact that her son is

dead.

She explained that prior to the young man leaving their home on Saturday, there was no indication that something was amiss. She said Singh had been making plans for a future investment and left his house to finalise his plan.

“On Saturday morning he said he was going to see a car to buy and I asked him if he wanted his brother to go with him but he declined,” Tekchand told this publication.

The distraught mother added that whenever Singh would leave their home, he would always telephone her upon arrival at his destination. However, on Saturday, this did not happen.

“I was so occupied throughout the day and until 9 pm (21:00h) I called him and he asked me how I was doing. I asked him how he was, he said okay, and when I asked him where he was I was told that he was on West Coast. I asked what he was doing there and what time he was coming back but by that time the phone cut off

Dead: Kevin Singh

and I never hear back from him,” Tekchand lamented.

According to Singh’s mother, she did not know much about her son’s girlfriend, 25-year-old Subrina Nandram.

“My nephew he came and told me that Kevin was in an accident, he didn’t want to tell me but he knew.

My other sons had already known but didn’t want me to know directly but they told him [nephew] to bring me and when I got there that

Man charged for restraining another over alleged theft

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George Smith

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

33-year-old businessman was on Monday charged and released on bail for restraining a man who allegedly stole money from his mother.

George Smith, of “A” 95 East La Penitence, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and denied the charge which stated that on December 22, 2019, at Hadfield Street, Georgetown, he prevented Andy Gibson from going

about his business.

The Prosecutor informed the court that on December 22, 2019, Smith accused the Virtual Complainant of stealing money from his mother and proceeded to arrest the man.

The court heard that Smith took the man to the station; however, he was arrested for wrongfully restraining the victim.

The Magistrate released Smith on $40,000 bail.

The case will continue on January 27, 2020.

is when I knew he died and such.”

The woman added that she is hopeful that the police conclude the investigations into her son and his girlfriend’s death soon so that she can get closure.

The bodies of the couple were on Sunday evening found in a bathtub at the popular Aracari Resort, Versailles, West Bank Demerara, in what appeared to be a double suicide.

Singh and Nandram of Mon Repos, ECD, and formerly of Corentyne, Berbice, were found dead at about 18:00h by staff of the resort.

Based on information received, the couple checked

Dead: Subrina Nandram

into the resort on Saturday after lunch and was due

to check out at 12:00h on Sunday but the male extended their stay.

However, on Sunday, the hotel staff attempted to make contact with the couple but calls to their room went unanswered. At that point, the staff did not suspect anything and thought the couple did not want to be disturbed.

Nevertheless, after some time, the staff attempted to contact the couple for a second time and again, the phone went unanswered. The staff, thinking that something was amiss, walked over to the room and it was then that they made the discovery.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

‘Thieving’ monkey row ends in murder

…shop owner stabbed to death by neighbour

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Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD), shop owner was stabbed to death in the wee hours of Monday morning by her neighbour after he accused the woman of sending a monkey to steal from him.

Dead is 54-year-old Shellon Burnette of Lot 47 Graham Street, Plaisance, ECD, who operated a small grocery shop in front of her house.

Burnette’s 57-year-old neighbour with whom she had a verbal altercation about the monkey allegedly murdered the woman while she was inside of her shop.

According to villagers, the monkey is a stray animal.

Reports are that hours before her death, the suspect visited Burnette’s shop while she was attending to customers and began hurling insults.

It was then that he levelled accusations that the now dead woman had sent a monkey, which he believed she owned, into his home to steal his cash.

However, according to neighbours, Burnette denied the accusation and the duo ended up in an argument. Neighbours said that the suspect threatened

Murdered: Shellon Burnette

to kill the woman and then left.

On Monday morning at about 00:30h, the suspect

Tractor driven by ‘drunk’ teen crushes man to death

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Lindener is now dead after being crushed to death by a tractor after he and his friends ended their drinking-spree.

Dead is Rondell Jacobs of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Reports are the incident occurred at about 22:00h on Saturday at the 72 Miles Kaburee Main Access trail.

According to reports, at about 14:30h, a 30-year-old man employed to operate the tractor along with his teenage co-worker left their location at 58 Miles Potaro to head to 72 Miles.

Along the journey, the duo allegedly began consuming alcohol and at about 17:00h, when they arrived at their destination, they met Jacobs who was in the company of another male.

The tractor driver invited Jacobs and his friend to join him and the teenager to “have a few drinks” at a nearby shop.

allegedly went to Burnette’s shop where she had been resting and continued a verbal row with her about the monkey.

Guyana Times understands that the argument escalated within minutes and the man dealt Burnette several stab wounds about her body before exiting the shop.

A relative of the now dead woman told the police that he saw the man, whom he identified as Burnette’s neighbour, leaving her shop moments before her body was found in blood.

When this publication arrived at the Burnette’s resi-

Shellon Burnette’s shop where she was stabbed to death

dence, the now dead woman’s family and relatives were still in shock and too traumatised to speak about the details of the incident.

However, they confirmed that the suspect was no

“Short Boss” jailed for armed robbery, to face rape trial

M This publication understands that five hours later, the 17-year-old, who was highly intoxicated, took the keys to the tractor and commenced driving.

Jacobs was standing on the left sideboard of the tractor while the other two men were sitting on the fuel tank at the back of the vehicle.

While heading in a Northeastern direction on the 72 Miles Access trail, the drunk teen tried turning at a junction, but the unevenness of the road caused the tractor to tilt to the left.

As a result of this, Jacobs reportedly fell off the tractor

and landed on the roadway.

The teen continued driving and parked the vehicle a short distance away after he realised that he had driven over the man.

According to the police, when ranks arrived at the scene, Jacobs had an open laceration to the left side of his head along with bruises to the left rib area.

A beer bottle was also found lying on the right side of the now dead man.

Meanwhile, the teenager along with the two other men are presently in police custody. (Kristen Macklingam)

stranger to the family.

Meanwhile, Police said that the suspect was apprehended and is currently in police custody pending investigations. (Kristen Macklingam)

urder accused, Travis Evans called “Short Boss”, who recently pled guilty to charges of armed robbery and rape, was jailed for three years on the robbery charge. The jail term was handed down at the Demerara High Court on Monday.

A total of three years’ imprisonment was handed to Evans on the robbery charge which stated that on October 30, 2010, in the county of Demerara, whilst being armed with a dangerous weapon – a knife – he robbed a woman of $650,500.

Meanwhile, for the second charge, which alleged that he engaged in sexual penetration with a woman without her consent on the same day, the accused will be facing a trial.

This comes after the court was informed that

Sentenced for armed robbery: Travis Evans

Evans felt as though he did not enter a guilty plea willingly but rather under pressure. As such, Justice Morris-Ramlall struck out the original plea and ordered that he be placed on trial.

The man’s co-accused,

John Sampson and Alex Williams, are also expected to face a trial on both charges soon.

Nevertheless, Evans remains on remand for the murders of Gregory “Wayne” Frank and 21-year-old Ronsley Clarke. Both murders reportedly took place in August of 2018.

It was reported that Frank’s body was discovered days after his demise, lying in his Kuru Kururu, LindenSoesdyke Highway home with visible head injuries.

His entire home was ransacked which indicated that he was killed during a robbery.

On the other hand, Clarke was reportedly shot twice to his body by Evans in full view of his friends.

The murder occurred in Sophia while the deceased and his girlfriend were at a party.

NEWS

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Audit Office complains of unimplemented recommendations

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very year, the Audit Office of Guyana audits public financial records, unearths corruption and makes recommendations so the Government can tighten up the system.

As of last year, however, the Office is complaining that many of its recommendations are being ignored.

This is according to its 2018 report, which was presented to Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland back in October 2019. According to Auditor General Deodat Sharma, a mere 24 per cent of the 454 recommendations made in 2017 were implemented by the Government.

“Each year, my office issues recommendations to

Ministries, departments, and regions that are designed at improving systems and practices at these entities and improving the Government’s governance and accountability mechanisms. Four hundred and fifty-four recommendations were made in my 2017 Audit Report.

“We reviewed each recommendation to determine what action, if any, was taken by the respective Accounting Officers.

At the time of reporting in September 2019, 110 or 24 per cent were fully implemented, 116 or 26 per cent were partially implemented, while 228 or 50 per cent were not implemented.”

The Auditor General ex-

pressed concern over what he called the lack of action towards the implementation of the recommendations. According to him, it means that 76 per cent of his office’s recommendations were not fully implemented.

Sharma noted that this was a yearly occurrence.

“In many instances, recommendations are repeated each year without appropriate action and as a result, weaknesses and issues that impacted negatively on Government’s governance and accountability mechanisms continue to occur.

“Once again, I encourage the Government, through the Ministry of Finance, the Accountant General’s Department and the re-

spective Heads of Budget Agencies to take appropriate actions and put measures in place to address these recommendations,” he added.

Some of the annual issues on which the Audit Office has been providing advice over the years include overpayments. For 2018, however, the AG found that the trend of overpayments continued unabated.

This time, the Government was flagged for overpaying some $166 million of taxpayer dollars in contracts. According to the Audit Report, a number of Ministries, departments and regions were guilty of this practice.

For instance, various Ministries and depart-

Technician found dead under shed by son

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technician was on Sunday night found in a shed in his yard by his young son, and despite efforts to save his life, the 42-year-old man died while receiving medical attention.

Dead is Devendra Balgobin of lot 37 Middle Street, Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Guyana Times understands that the discovery was made at about 19:30h after the lad was sent by another relative to check on his father.

Balgobin had reportedly been ill and was frequently in and out of the hospital. He was scheduled to return for treatment recently but had refused to go.

Devendra Balgobin

He was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Saturday but left the hospital on Sunday. His family was

unaware that he discharged himself from the hospital and returned to his home at about 18:00h on Sunday.

According to the now dead man’s stepson, Kevin, the technician was still alive when his younger brother notified him that there was “something wrong” with him.

“His sister who lives at the back of the yard asked me to speak to him about going to the hospital because he kept refusing. He told me he was not going either and I went into the house and was on the phone talking with my friend when my little brother went outside and he told me daddy standing up funny. I get up right away and jump out the chair and look

Igloo Ice Cream customers win cash

A customer at the Stabroek Market Branch pulls the name of a lucky winner in the Igloo Cash Rewards promotion drawing, coordinated by Marketing and Promotion Supervisor at Sterling Products Limited, Dellon Lynch

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ighteen Igloo customers started the New Year with extra money in their pockets after winning a total of $180,000 in the Igloo Cash Reward promotion.

The winners’ names were pulled at three drawings at Igloo outlets located at the East Bank Public Road, Stabroek Market and Enmore, East Coast Demerara, with winners

for the months of November and December.

Marketing and Promotion Supervisor at Sterling Products Limited, Dellon Lynch explained that the customers who shopped at any Igloo outlet in November and December had the opportunity to submit their names for a chance to win cash.

The winners of $15,000 cash awards are Candaice

Ames, Malikai Boodhill, Keshia Radlins, Carol Jordan, Jaclin Blair and Manawattie Badrinarain.

The $10,000 winners are D Dannet, Laurel Boodie, Claire Johnson, Marlon King and Entini James.

Meanwhile, the six winners of $5000 each are Hermenie Pellew, Nandanie John, Richard Lovell, Nneka Bentick, Janet Mayers and Joeann Jackson.

out and see him with his foot off the ground,” the stepson related.

The young man stated that he immediately raised an alarm and neighbours, as well as other family members, rushed to render assistance.

He added that Balgobin would usually consume alcohol and had been encountering difficulties with certain family members. It is suspected that he committed suicide as a result of domestic issues. (Kristen Macklingam)

Auditor General Deodat Sharma

ments overpaid contractors as much as $92.3 million.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry, according to the report, accounted for $63.7 million. Meanwhile, $73.7 million was overpaid by regional administrations.

Regions Two, Eight, Nine and 10 were responsible for 70 per cent of this sum.

There is some good news, however. Auditor General Sharma notes in the report that as of September 2019, $20 million was recovered.

This, therefore, leaves $146 million outstanding.

The AG also experienced some difficulties in his audit, as some $800 million in payment vouchers were not presented to his auditors. The report states that this sum is equivalent to 582 vouchers. The Ministries of the Presidency and Natural Resources were among those culpable.

The AG notes that as a result, the Audit Office could not ascertain whether the money was used for the intended purpose.

14 NEWS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice businessman beaten, robbed by armed bandits

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Bath Settlement, Berbice businessman was on Saturday attacked and robbed by a group of armed bandits.

Reports are that three masked men – one armed with a firearm – pounced on Akash Fashion of Lot 55

Waterloo, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) at about 18:45h on Saturday.

Amkarran Lucckicharran called “Bandu”, the owner of Akash Fashion, related that he was at the time packing up some items he

Amkarran Lucckicharran called “Bandu”

The ransacked store at Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, Region Five

had outside on display when he saw a white car stop in front of his business place.

“So, I turn around to go inside the store because I think that is customers; I was picking up the clothes outside because it was closing up time.”

He related that as he en-

tered the building, one of the men approached him from behind, held him around his waist and dragged him into the store.

“At the same time, two of them run past me and go to my sister, brother-in-law and nephew and pull them inside the store and they put all of us to lie down on the floor.”

The men then demanded cash and other valuables.

“Bandu” said he gave them in excess of $150,000, which he had in his pocket.

They also removed bottles of perfume, wristwatches and jewellery from the store.

The quartet was told to remain on the ground while the man with the firearm stood guard over them as the two other intruders went to the upper flat of the build-

The business premises which the bandits invaded

ing. The bandits removed an Xbox game, two laptops valued $260,000 and about $15,000 along with gold jewellery including a diamond ring all valued in excess of $300,000.

The entire ordeal lasted less than 15 minutes. The

businessman said the men then exited and sped away in the awaiting car.

The car was later discovered abandoned at Number 7 Village, West Coast Berbice. It is believed that it was stolen. Police have since launched an investigation.

Govt attempting to use criminal justice system as a political instrument …former PPP MP to be charged for sexual assault

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he David Granger-led Administration is attempting to use the criminal justice system as a political instrument against their political opponents.

This is according to former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament Alister Charlie.

Charlie, who is also a Central Committee Member of the PPP, made the statement on Monday evening after he was told that sexual assault and attempting to pervert the course of justice

charges will be filed against him. The charges stemmed from an accusation made last year.

“Expectedly, as it is becoming clearer with every passing day that the coalition Government will lose the March 2, 2020, National and Regional Elections, they are becoming progressively more desperate and vindictive,” Charlie said.

He added, “we have already witnessed their acts of vandalism against our party’s flags and other cam-

paigns paraphernalia. We have also witnessed their acts of thuggery and intimidation against our party’s activists as they move around the country to spread the message of the PPP/C.” According to Charlie, after applying tremendous political pressure upon members of the Guyana Police Force, “they have finally succeeded in getting me charged with the criminal offences of sexual assault and attempting to pervert

the course of justice”.

It is to be noted, he said, that the initial police investigation concluded the matter as being resolved with the Virtual Complainant retracting the complaint after confessing that he was forced to make that complaint by someone “who is a known PNC activist” in the area. It is also important to note, he said, that the incident in question was made since July 31, 2019.

“Subsequently, Vice President Sydney Allicock

Former PPP MP and Central Committee Member, Alister Charlie

visited the police station with a delegation and, as a result, a special team of police officers, central-

ly directed from Eve Leary, Georgetown, was dispatched to reopen the investigation.

As a result, these charges emerged. It is not without relevance that PNC activist, Carl Parker, the ex-Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, was charged with attempted rape.”

“I maintain that I am innocent of these charges and these charges are instituted against me because I was a Member of Parliament and a Central Committee Member of the PPP,” Charlie stated.

Indigenous peoples should be afforded desired healthcare – Toshaos

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he year 2020 is deemed the start of a “transformative era”, and the leaders of some Indigenous communities are expectant that this decade will include critical improvements in areas such as health, among others.

Past surveys conducted by the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) have found that lack of modern-life facili-

ties is the main hindrance to quality health care in Indigenous populations but village leaders are of the view that 2020 is the year to end health woes.

Guyana Times spoke to the Toshaos of Bumbery Hill and Four Miles, located in Region One (Barima-Waini) where they highlighted health care challenges and needs within the respective communities.

Bumbery Hill village Elizabeth Romascindo

chief:

The country’s oldest village chief of Bumbery Hill, Elizabeth Romascindo, explained that the tight-knit community is in dire need of a health post. This, according to her, will benefit senior citizens in particular, who would often experience financial difficulties as they would have to travel to the Hosororo community to access health service.

“We need a health hut because people are getting old.

We have one at Hosororo but persons sometimes do not have money to travel. So we need one, that even if a person doesn’t have money they can visit the one within the community,” Romascindo

noted.

The need for trained health practitioners was also highlighted, as Romascindo added that surrounding villages are in to benefit.

“We would also need trained health workers…We have persons in other surrounding communities that can come here because if you don’t have transportation money you would think twice to walk. So if we have a health hut it would be better for us.”

Similar views were expressed by the leader of Four Miles, Lloyd Adolphus, who endorsed that it is an appropriate time to end health issues, pointing to drug shortages. He recounted a recent shortage of malaria treatment, a disease that is prevalent within the area.

“We need a building but one with drugs inside…We have had drugs shortages for malaria, one time we did not have tablets at all, we have to wait for the treatment come from Mabaruma and malaria is very dominant here,” Adolphus posited.

The leader further placed calls for a trained medical team, and an improved health facility to treat pa-

Region One Chairman, Brentol Ashley

tients and store drugs.

“In terms of health-wise, we are in need of someone whom is properly trained and a better building for our health post, patients and drugs to be housed in,” he added.

Drug shortage

Meanwhile, Chairman of Region One (Barima-Waini) Brentol Ashley said that the shortages of drugs, particularly those used for the treatment of malaria and hypotension, is continuing to put a strain on health services in the region.

Ashley, during an interview with this publication, added that drug shortage is

plaguing several communities.

“As you know Region [One] is one of the regions that records the highest cases of malaria infection and that also that area the drugs medical supplies of that is also somewhat is short from time to time and also other chronic areas hypotension, diabetes depending on which area these patients are living,” Ashley added.

Ashley further stated that there are some instances where drugs and medical supplies are expired.

The Chairman added that even though monies were budgeted for the communities’ medical supplies, there has not been any significant improvement in the provision of drugs and medical supplies over the years.

Moreover, the Chairman lamented the Regional Executive Officer’s decision to transport the drugs via ferry rather than by an aircraft.

Last month, Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence was heavily criticised by former Health Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy for the rapid decline of the health sector since 2015.

NEWS

15

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Promoted GDF ranks receive new badges N

ewly-promoted senior Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers on Monday received their new badges of rank at a simple ceremony held at the Officers Club at Base Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown.

Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Patrick West issued Colonel Raul Jerrick with his new badge of rank and was ably assisted by the Colonel’s wife. The remaining officers’ badges were handed over by commanding officers and branch heads of the GDF. Brigadier West congratulated the officers and encouraged them to continue their good works. He pointed out that the demands of the Force on the officers tended to make for some difficulties from time

Colonel Raul Jerrick being decorated by his wife and Army Chiefof-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West

delivery of their duties to the nation.

Meanwhile, Colonel

port of their families, the Force, and its leadership.

He further pledged that they (the recipients of the

Army Chief-of-Staff Patrick West and the newly-promoted officers

to time. Brigadier West also thanked the officers’ spouses, and family members for their support, which he indicated was essential to the

Jerrick, the most senior officer in the line-up, said that their achievement of this milestone could not have blossomed without the sup-

promotions) would continue to be professional, serving with integrity and a honed focus on the Force’s future development.

Harvey Weinstein charged with rape in LA as New York trial begins

H

arvey Weinstein has been charged with rape and sexual assault in Los Angeles on the same day he appeared in a New York court in a separate case.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office said the charges related to the alleged sexual assault of two women over two days in 2013.

If convicted, he could face up to 28 years in prison.

The film producer earlier appeared in a New York court, where he faces separate charges of rape and sexual assault.

Jury selection in the New York case began on Monday, with the trial expected to begin properly in about two weeks.

Weinstein has said all his relationships were consensual, but admitted that he had “caused a lot of pain”.

His lawyers have vowed to mount an aggressive defence against the allegations he faces, which spurred the #MeToo and Times Up movements against sexual impropriety.

“We believe the evidence

Using a walker, Harvey Weinstein arrives for his trial on sexual assault charges

will show that the defendant used his power and influence to gain access to his victims and then commit violent crimes against them,” Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey said in a statement.

“I want to commend the victims who have come forward and bravely recounted what happened to them,” she added. “It is my hope that all victims of sexual violence find strength and healing as they move forward.”

LA County Prosecutors

charged Weinstein with allegedly raping one woman and sexually assaulting another in separate incidents over a two-day period in 2013.

On February 18, 2013, Weinstein allegedly went to a hotel and raped a woman after pushing his way inside her room, Prosecutors said.

A day later, they said, Weinstein sexually assaulted a woman at a hotel suite in Beverly Hills. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Pentagon chief denies US leaving Iraq; huge Tehran crowds mourn commander

People attend a funeral procession in Tehran, Iran, January 6, 2020, for Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force, and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi alMuhandis, who were killed in an air strike at Baghdad airport

T

he United States has no plans to pull its troops out of Iraq, Defence Secretary Mark Esper said on Monday, following reports by Reuters and other media of an American military letter informing Iraq officials about the repositioning of troops in preparation to leave the country.

The developments came in the aftermath of Friday’s drone strike in Baghdad ordered by U. President Donald Trump that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani, widely seen as Iran’s second most powerful figure behind Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Khamenei, 80, wept in grief with hundreds of thousands of mourners thronging the streets of Tehran at Soleimani’s funeral on Monday.

Word of the letter came a day after Iran’s demand for US forces to withdraw from the region gained traction when Iraq’s Parliament

passed a resolution calling for all foreign troops to leave the country.

The letter said US-led coalition forces would be using helicopters to evacuate.

Several were heard flying over Baghdad on Monday night, although it was not immediately clear if that was a related development.

“There’s been no decision whatsoever to leave Iraq,” Esper told Pentagon reporters when asked about the letter, adding there were no plans issued to prepare to leave.

“I don’t know what that letter is ... We’re trying to find out where that’s coming from, what that is. But there’s been no decision made to leave Iraq. Period.”

The letter caused confusion about the future of US forces in Iraq. The United States has about 5000 troops in Iraq.

The top US military officer told reporters the letter was a poorly worded draft document meant only to underscore increased move-

ment by US forces.

“Poorly worded, implies withdrawal. That’s not what’s happening,” said US Army General Mark Milley, Chairman of the military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, stressing there was no withdrawal being planned.

The authenticity of the letter, which was addressed to the Iraqi Defence Ministry’s Combined Joint Operations Baghdad and signed by a US general, had been confirmed to Reuters by an Iraqi military source.

Esper added the United States was still committed to countering Islamic State in Iraq, alongside America’s allies and partners.

Iraqi caretaker Prime Minister Abdel Abdul Mahdi told the US Ambassador to Baghdad on Monday that both nations needed to implement the Iraqi parliamentary resolution, the premier’s office said in a statement. It did not give a timeline. (Excerpted from Reuters)

16

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

Regional

Chilean university admissions VP Pence praises Venezuela's Guaidó tests hit by fresh protests on election win U

U

S Vice President Mike Pence congratulated Venezuelan Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó for his re-election as Head of Congress, describing Guaidó as the “only legitimate president” of Venezuela, a person familiar with the matter said.

Pence made the remarks in a 10-minute call on Monday afternoon, the source said, after Venezuela’s socialist Government installed a new Head of Congress, with armed troops blocking Opposition legislators from entering parliament.

Pence described the moment as “an inflection point in terms of freedom and democracy moving forward in the country”, the person said. The Wall Street Journal was the first to report on the call.

Meanwhile, the Venezuelan lawmaker sworn in by the ruling socialist party as the new Head of Parliament said on Monday that naming a new electoral council to preside over free and fair elections was the body’s main priority.

US Vice President Mike Pence and Venezuelan Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó attend a meeting of the Lima Group in Bogota, Colombia, February 25, 2019

President Nicolás Maduro’s Government announced Sunday that Luis Parra, who was expelled from the First Justice opposition party in late 2019 due to corruption allegations that he has denied, was now Parliament chief.

Despite wielding little real power, the mostly ceremonial legislative body has been a thorn in the side of Maduro and what critics call his stranglehold on power in the crisis-torn country.

Guaidó is recognized by doz-

ens of nations as Venezuela’s rightful leader.

Parra, who has said he was still an opponent of Maduro, told reporters the first step toward ending the South American country’s “politics of polarisation” was to appoint a new electoral council. The current council is made up of five main directors and three alternates, some of whom have been dismissed

by Opposition Leaders as biased in Maduro’s favour.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

10 years after Haiti quake, many struggle to rebuild lives

H

aiti’s calamitous earthquake a decade ago levelled much of the capital, killed tens of thousands and left some 1.5 million people homeless.

One of its longer-term consequences has been the estimated 4000 to 6000 people who were permanently disabled as a result of the quake –- people like 32-year-old Isaac Joseph, who lost the use of his legs after his neighbour’s house collapsed on him.

“That was the worst day there could ever be since the beginning of time,” said Joseph, who has been wheelchair-bound ever since. “Everything happened in just 55 seconds.”

The 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit the poorest

country in the Americas on January 12, 2010, destroying much of Port-au-Prince.

Estimates of the number of dead vary from 46,000 to more than 300,000.

“We were lying in bed when we felt a vibration.

Then we heard lots of people screaming... the house next door fell on ours while we were in bed,” he said. A collapsed wall pinned his legs and kept Joseph trapped under rubble for three days until rescuers freed him.

He was taken to hospital where doctors treated him and gave him the news that he would be paralysed for life.

“It’s very, very hard, when I think that my legs were working fine and in less than one hour, I am confined to a wheelchair for

life,” he recalled, fighting back tears.

After leaving hospital, he was sent to live in a tent city with amputees and other victims. Two years later, the tents were replaced with 400 small wooden prefabricated houses.

“We thought that something was going to happen for us because this was only supposed to be for two years. But no one has visited us since then,” he said.

In a country where nearly 60 per cent of the population survives on less than US$2.40 a day, Joseph scrapes together a living tutoring neighbourhood children. He is studying law and aims to become an advocate for handicapped Haitians.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Principal murdered at Trinidad preschool

T

he first day of school began tragically for pupils of the Baby's Pre-School who saw their principal being brutally stabbed in what Police have described as an incident of domestic violence.

About 7:20h Jezelle Philip was at the preschool located at the corner of Independence Square and George Street, Port-of-Spain

Jezelle Philip

when she was attacked by a man she knew. Philip was stabbed several times about the body.

The man fled the scene, but later surrendered to the Police at the Besson Street Police Station. Philip was taken to the Port-of-Spain General Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.

(Trinidad Guardian)

niversity entrance exams to be taken by 300,000 students around Chile were disrupted in some cities on Monday by fresh protests over inequality and elitism, with some students blocking access to test sites and burning exam papers.

The authorities suspended the university selection test – known locally as the PSU – in 64 of more than 700 exam centres around the country, citing in a statement the safety of students, staff and exam materials.

The test had been suspended twice since November amid widespread social unrest in Chile that

has left more than 27 people dead, thousands injured, and thousands more arrested.

With the unrest dwindling to a handful of smaller protests each week, the test had been rescheduled to this week, only to face calls for a boycott by student union groups that claim the admissions system privileges those who attend better schools, in better areas and have better resources to prepare for it.

“We will continue to fight against market education and for a country where poor and working-class children can study without competition or segregation,” the Coordinating

Assembly of Secondary Students (ACES) said in a statement on Twitter.

Students protested outside exam centres in cities around the country, including Santiago, the capital, the coastal city of Valparaiso and Calama to the north. Students carried banners calling for a more equitable education system.

In some cases, students blocked access to the sites, disrupted the exams, vandalised classroom furniture and burned exam papers. Eighty-one people were detained for damage and public disorder, the Interior Ministry said in a statement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Puerto Rico rocked by a magnitude 5.8 earthquake

A

Puerto Rican natural wonder Punta Ventana collapsed amid the earthquake [Miami Herald photo]

damaging earthquake struck Puerto Rico early Monday, with plenty of aftershocks expected.

The magnitude 5.8 tremor happened at 05:32h ET, the US Geological Survey said.

It was centred about 8 miles south-southeast of Indios, Puerto Rico, at a depth of about 3.7 miles below ground.

No major injuries were reported, Puerto Rico Director of Emergency

Management Carlos Acevedo said.

He said some homes were damaged in Guanica, and a home collapsed in Guayanilla.

Some victims of the earthquake posted photos of deep cracks in walls.

There were also reports of rock slides along Route 2, Acevedo said.

No tsunami warning was issued after the quake.

But geologists warn of more tremors to come.

"More earthquakes than

usual (called aftershocks) will continue to occur near the mainshock," the USGS said.

"When there are more earthquakes, the chance of a large earthquake is greater which means that the chance of damage is greater."

The agency advised anyone in or near vulnerable structures to be extra cautious and said those caught in potential quakes should drop, cover and hold on.

(CNN)

outgoing Guatemalan Government, allows US immigration officials to send migrants requesting asylum at the US-Mexican border to apply for protection in Guatemala instead.

Trump has made clamping down on unlawful migration a top priority of his presidency and a major theme of his 2020 re-election campaign. His Administration penned similar deals with Honduras and El Salvador last year.

Democrats and pro-migrant groups have opposed the move and contend asylum seekers will face danger in Guatemala, where the murder rate is five times that of the United States,

according to 2017 data compiled by the World Bank.

The country’s asylum office is tiny and thinly staffed and critics have argued it lacks the capacity to properly vet a significant increase in cases.

Guatemalan Presidentelect Alejandro Giammattei, who takes office this month, has said he will review the agreement.

Acting Deputy US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Ken Cuccinelli said in a tweet in December that Mexicans were being considered for inclusion under the agreement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US implements plan to send Mexican asylum seekers to Guatemala

M

exicans seeking asylum in the United States could be sent to Guatemala under a bilateral agreement signed by the Central American nation last year, according to documents sent to US asylum officers in recent days and seen by Reuters.

In a January 4 email, field office staff at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) were told Mexican nationals will be included in the populations “amenable” to the agreement with Guatemala.

The agreement, brokered last July between the Administration of Republican President Donald Trump and the

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

17

Around the World

Indonesia mobilises fishermen Trump under fire for threat to Iranian in stand-off with China

I

ndonesia will mobilise fishermen to join warships in the South China Sea to help defend against Chinese vessels, the Government said on Monday, as the biggest stand-off with China for years escalated off Southeast Asia’s largest country.

In an unusually strong statement, President Joko Widodo told reporters: “There is no negotiation when it comes to our sovereignty.”

The stand-off since last month in the northern Natuna islands, where a Chinese coastguard vessel has accompanied Chinese fishing vessels, has soured the generally friendly relationship between Jakarta and Beijing.

Indonesia's President Joko Widodo (centre) along with Military Chief Gatot Nurmantyo (left) and Air Force Commander Agus Supriatna walk past fighter jets and weapons during a military exercise on Natuna Island, Riau Islands province, Indonesia, October 6, 2016

Indonesia’s Chief Security Minister, Mahfud MD, told reporters that around 120 fishermen from the island of Java would be sent to the Natuna islands, some 1000 km (600 miles) to the north.

Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous coun-

try, said last week it was sending more warships to the area.

China claims much of the South China Sea, a global trade route with rich fishing grounds and energy reserves, as its own based on what it says its historic ac-

tims.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said Sinaga was "the most prolific rapist in British legal history".

The Judge ruled his life sentence must include a minimum of 30 years in jail.

The post-graduate student was already serving life, with a minimum term of 20 years, for the offences he was convicted of in two earlier trials, which took place in summer 2018 and last

spring.

Across four separate trials, the Indonesian national was found guilty of 136 counts of rape, eight counts of attempted rape, 14 counts of sexual assault, and one count of assault by penetration, against a total of 48 victims.

He drugged his victims before assaulting them while they were unconscious. When the victims woke up many of them had

tivity. But Southeast Asian countries - and the United States and much of the world - say such claims have no legal basis.

Indonesian vessels often confront Chinese fishermen off the Natuna islands, but the presence of the Chinese coastguard vessel has marked an escalation this year over which Indonesia summoned the Chinese ambassador.

The last peak in tensions between Indonesia and China over the South China Sea was in 2016, when a Chinese coastguard vessel rammed a Chinese fishing boat to free it after it had been intercepted for illegal fishing by Indonesian authorities. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Reynhard Sinaga: “Evil sexual predator” jailed for life for 136 rapes

A

man convicted of 159 sex offences, including 136 rapes, will "never be safe to be released", a Judge has said.

Reynhard Sinaga was found guilty of luring 48 men from outside Manchester clubs to his flat, where he drugged and assaulted them - filming the attacks.

Police say they have evidence Sinaga, 36, who is being named for the first time, targeted at least 190 vic-

no memory of what had happened.

The rapist was caught in June 2017 when one victim, who regained consciousness while being assaulted, fought Sinaga off and called the police.

Assistant Chief Constable Mabbs Hussain said the true extent of Sinaga's offending would probably never be known.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Libya: Haftar forces announce capture of large parts of Sirte

T

he forces of Libya's renegade general Khalifa Haftar said they have entered Sirte, taking control of large parts of the coastal city.

Khaled al-Mahjoub, a spokesman of Haftar's selfstyled Libyan National Army (LNA), said the fighters captured "all the districts surrounding the city", including al-Qardabiya airbase, before moving towards the city centre.

However, Libya's internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) rejected the information in a statement, referring to it as "rumours claiming gains of militias and mercenaries of war

criminal Haftar".

GNA said the Government forces repelled LNA's attack, destroying two armed vehicles near the east of Sirte.

"The situation inside Sirte is completely under control, and the clashes

that took place on the eve of this day took place outside the city," the Government said.

Earlier on Monday, LNA sources said the takeover came after forces from the city of Misrata, a key source of military power for GNA,

retreated from Sirte.

A resident in Sirte city centre told Reuters News Agency by phone that they can see "convoys of LNA inside Sirte city ... they control large parts of the city now. We also hear gunfire".

Capturing Sirte would be an important gain for Haftar, who since April has been waging a military offensive on Tripoli which is home to the GNA. Sirte lies in the centre of Libya's Mediterranean coast, and has been controlled by GNA-aligned forces since they ejected the ISIL (ISIS) armed group from the city with the help of US air raids in late 2016.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

uranium, though it said it would continue to cooperate with the UN nuclear watchdog.

Its decision followed the killing of Iranian military Commander Qassem Soleimani in a US drone strike.

Iran has criticised Britain, France and Germany for failing to salvage the pact by shielding Tehran’s economy from US

sanctions, reimposed since 2018 when Washington pulled out of the agreement.

Confirming an emergency meeting of the European Union’s 28 Foreign Ministers would take place on Friday, an EU diplomat said: “We must be ready to react to Iran’s breaches of the nuclear deal.”

Asked whether this could mean triggering a mechanism that could result in in-

ternational sanctions being reimposed on Tehran, the envoy said: “It is increasingly likely, but not yet decided.

Friday will be key.”

Two other diplomats said France, Britain and Germany could make the decision before Friday.

Asked whether the mechanism would be triggered, one of the diplomats said: “Not later than Friday, but yes.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

LNA has received material and military support from countries including UAE, Jordan and Egypt [Esam Omran Al-Fetori/Reuters]

Europeans set to toughen Iran response over nuclear violations – diplomats

E

uropean parties to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal could launch a dispute resolution process this week that might lead to renewed UN sanctions on Tehran, European diplomats said.

Iran took a further step back from its commitments to the 2015 pact with six world powers by announcing on Sunday that it would scrap limits on enriching

cultural sites

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, in the city of Isfahan, is one of two dozen Unesco World Heritage sites in Iran

U

S President Donald Trump has faced growing criticism over his threats to attack Iran's cultural sites.

Trump made the threats amid fallout from the US assassination of Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani.

The President said cultural sites were among 52 identified Iranian targets that could be attacked if Iranians "torture, maim and blow up our people".

The UN said the US and Iran had signed conventions to protect cultural heritage, including during conflict.

Gen Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad on Friday on the orders of Trump.

The killing has sharply increased regional tensions, with Iran threatening "severe revenge".

The first came in a series of tweets on Saturday.

Trump said the US had identified 52 Iranian sites,

some "at a very high level and important to Iran and the Iranian culture", and warned they would be "hit very fast and hard" if Tehran carried out revenge attacks on US interests or personnel.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo appeared to try to soften the threat by saying the US would act within international law.

But the President later repeated his threat, saying: "They're allowed to kill our people, they're allowed to torture and maim our people, they're allowed to use roadside bombs and blow up our people - and we're not allowed to touch their cultural site? It doesn't work that way."

On Monday, White House adviser Kellyanne Conway defended the President, saying he had not said he was targeting cultural sites, only "asking the question".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Mass anti-Government protests turn violent in Guinea

T

housands took to the streets in Guinea in a new anti-Government protest on Monday, with partisan violence injuring at least 12 people.

The West African country has been hit by rolling protests since mid-October over concerns President Alpha Conde plans to stay in office for a third term.

Conde, 81, announced a new draft Constitution last month which critics fear he will use to pursue a third term.

Abdourahmane Sanoh, the coordinator of National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC), an alliance of opposition groups behind the protests, said there were plans to increase the number of rallies from January 13.

About 20 people have died since the protests began, according to the AFP news agency, and one security officer has also been killed.

But the protests turned violent in the Conde stronghold of Kankan in the east of the country, as the President's supporters attacked protesters.

The violence comes after the political Opposition said it would prevent legislative elections - planned for February 16 - from taking place, citing irregularities in the electoral roll.

Conde is a former Opposition figure himself who was jailed under Guinea's previous authoritarian regimes.

He became the country's first democratically elected President in 2010 before winning re-election in 2015. Under the present Constitution, Presidents are limited to two terms in office.

Despite initial hopes of a new political dawn in the country, critics say his rule has become increasingly authoritarian. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Be careful whom you trust. The changes happening around you could go either way, depending on how astute you are when determining who is on your side and who isn’t.

Keep up with what’s trending. Times are changing, and having all the facts on hand will be necessary to make a good decision. Look at your options and be realistic.

Make a physical change that will improve your appearance, position or an important relationship. Less debate and more action will keep you out of trouble.

Don’t let pushiness be your downfall. Ask once, and if the answer is no, move on.

You’ll come out on top if you are resourceful and focused.

Gather as much information as possible. Make choices based on facts, insight and experience. Taking action rather than waiting for someone else to go first is in your best interest.

A clean slate will put your mind at ease. Don’t be afraid to follow the path that interests you most. Reach out to those who bring out the best in you.

Rest should be scheduled. Kicking back with people who share your interests and concerns will keep you centered and on track with the least amount of physical effort.

Look, see and do. Let your creative imagination run wild. Associate with people you find inspiring.

What transpires will be revolutionary. Be a leader, not a follower.

Refuse to let interference SAGITTARIUS ruin your day. Concentrate (Nov. 23on what you enjoy doing Dec. 21) most and on supportive people. Take better care of your health and meaningful relationships.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR YESTERDAY’S PUZZLE AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Find out exactly what others have to offer before you get involved in a joint venture. If you are doing most of the work, you are best off going solo.

Share information and clear up any uncertainty someone has regarding your intentions, or vice versa. Communication and understanding will help keep the peace. Nurture a meaningful relationship.

Romance is featured.

Take on only what you know is feasible. Focusing on critical issues will lead to good results and a favorable response. Broaden your horizons and explore new possibilities.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

19

round-up: Lakers' 20

blocks subdue Pistons after missing Saturday’s defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies with a tight left hamstring, converted 5 of 6 3-pointers and 9 of 14 shots in 26 minutes. He fouled out with 7:06 remaining.

Memphis Grizzlies 121 - Phoenix Suns 114

Jonas Valanciunas had eight of his team-high 30 points in a third-quarter runaway as Memphis took a big lead and held off a frantic finish by Devin Booker for a victory over host Phoenix.

Booker finished with 40 points, including 14 in the final 5:28, during which the Suns rallied from a 14-point deficit to get as close as 115112 with still 52.6 seconds to play.

Valanciunas’ 30 points

came on 12for16 shooting, as the Grizzlies shot 54.2 percent from the field. He also grabbed eight rebounds, tying Jaren Jackson Jr. for team-high honors.

Minnesota Timberwolves 118 - Cleveland Cavaliers 103

Gorgui Dieng collected 22 points and 13 rebounds as visiting Minnesota overcame squandering a 25-point lead to defeat Cleveland.

Shabazz Napier finished with 21 points, like Dieng hitting 8 of 10 shots from the floor. Andrew Wiggins returned from a four-game absence due to illness to match Robert Covington with 15 points for the Timberwolves, who have won four of six on the heels of an 11-game losing streak.

Dante Exum scored 24 of his career-high 28 points in the second half for the Cavaliers, who dropped their fourth straight game.

Cavaliers disgruntled forward Kevin Love was held out of Sunday’s game against his former team for rest purposes, one day after his verbal altercation with general manager Koby Altman. (BBC Sport)

Svitolina, Kerber fall at 1st hurdle in Brisbane A Detroit Pistons forward Christian Wood (35) defends a shot by Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (USA Today Sports)

A

nthony Davis recorded 24 points, 11 rebounds and a season-best eight blocked shots to help the Los Angeles Lakers register a 106-99 victory over the visiting Detroit Pistons on Sunday night.

LeBron James added 21 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists for his ninth triple-double of the season as the Lakers won their fifth consecutive game. Los Angeles blocked 20 shots, one shy of the franchise mark set against the Denver Nuggets on April 9, 1982.

Alex Caruso scored 13 points, Dwight Howard added 11 points, nine rebounds and five blocked shots and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 10 for the Lakers.

JaVale McGee swatted away six shots for Los Angeles, which shot 45.7 percent from the field and was 6 of 20 from 3-point range.

Derrick Rose scored

28 points and reserve Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk added 14 points for the Pistons, who lost for the ninth time in the past 11 games.

Langston Galloway tallied 13 points, Andre Drummond had 12 points, 18 rebounds and four blocked shots, and Sekou Doumbouya and Christian Wood added 11 points apiece.

Miami Heat 122 - Portland Trail Blazers 111

Reserve point guard Goran Dragic had his first double-double of the season — 29 points and 13 assists — as Miami ran its home record to 17-1 at the expense of Portland.

Blazers point guard Damian Lillard scored a game-high 34 points and added 12 assists. Portland center Hassan Whiteside, playing his first game in Miami since the Heat traded him to the Blazers in July,

had 21 points, a game-high 18 rebounds and two blocks.

Miami, which never trailed and improved to 10-0 following a loss, also got 20 points from Bam Adebayo, 19 from Derrick Jones and 14 from Kendrick Nunn.

Los Angeles Clippers 135 - New York Knicks 132

Montrezl Harrell scored 34 points, and Paul George and Lou Williams had 32 apiece as host Los Angeles defeated New York while having three players score at least 30 points in a game for the first time in franchise history.

Williams connected on 6 of 10 3-pointers and recorded nine assists for the Clippers.

Marcus Morris Sr. led the Knicks with 38 points, hitting 6 of 7 3-pointers. RJ Barrett had 24 points, while Julius Randle added 16 points and eight rebounds.

George, who returned

merican Danielle Collins stunned former champion Elina Svitolina 6-1 6-1 in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Monday as Germany’s Angelique Kerber also bowed out.

World number five Svitolina entered the match as heavy favorite to progress but looked far from her best and failed to convert any of her four break points in the opening game.

Collins took her chances with aggressive hitting to grab an early break and went on to claim five consecutive games and clinch the opening set.

Fourth seed Svitolina struggled with her first serve throughout the match and Collins targeted her soft second serves to dominate the second set.

After losing the first game, Collins powered through six straight games to seal victory in 56 minutes.

It was a significant result for Collins, who has struggled for form since being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis

in October.

The victory was Collins’s third against a top-10 opponent and will lift her confidence ahead of the Australian Open, where she reached her maiden Grand Slam semi-final last year.

Earlier, home favorite Samantha Stosur upset former world number one Kerber 7-6(5) 7-6(4) in a tight clash between former Grand Slam champions.

Stosur, who has not progressed beyond the second round in nine Brisbane appearances, dazzled in the decisive tiebreaks with a combination of solid first serves and devastating forehands to clinch her first win over Kerber since 2015. (Reuters)

Danielle Collins

20

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

‘King of Studies II’ slated for January 25 staging

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he highly anticipated football tournament dubbed King of Studies II is set for staging on January 25th near the newly constructed Behavioural Sciences Building on the University of Guyana campus at Turkeyen, ECD. Created with the specific intention of encouraging student interaction and bringing people together at the University of Guyana, teams participating in this tournament are comprised of members drawn from various faculties, as opposed to what normally obtains at universities (inter-faculty sports).

The matches in this tournament will be played in two five-minute halves and in a round-robin style; after which the knockout stage, comprised of two semi-final games and the final game, would be staged.

Because this tournament is a one-day affair, all prizes won would be handed over on the day of its staging.

The first edition of this tournament, delayed by two weeks last year on account of a bomb scare, was eventually won by the team Hard Knocks.

The eventual MVP -- Hard Knocks captain Jamaine Samuels, who had scored the most goals in the tournament -- walked away with one signature pair of Moov sneakers and a gold ring sponsored by Antonio Fredericks.

Team Hard Knocks will be aiming to keep its winning streak alive and be crowned two-time champions of this tournament, which facilitates 10 teams and accommodates as many as 100 students.

This year’s victorious team is set to walk away with a top prize of $100,000, while the runner-up team would earn $50,000 and third-placed team $25,000.

The champion team would be obliged to contribute 10% of its winnings towards a project its members choose to impact the university.

Novak Djokovic (left) and Viktor Troicki celebrate Serbia’s win

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Captain of the tournament’s defending champions, Jamaine Samuels, was adjudged the inaugural tournament’s MVP and the player with the most goals

Ronaldo scores his 1st Serie A hat-trick in Juventus win

Cristiano Ronaldo’s three goals all came in the second half (EPA)

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onaldo took advantage of a Ragnar Klavan error early in the second half to give the champions the lead, before scoring a penalty after Marko Rog fouled Paulo Dybala.

Portugal legend Ronaldo then set up Gonzalo Higuain to put Juve 3-0 up.

And moments later he got his 56th career hat-trick when he slipped the ball under goalkeeper Robin Olsen.

The 34-year-old is in his best scoring run since his £99.2m move from Real Madrid in 2018, scoring in each of his last five Serie A

ATP Cup: Serbia beat France to reach quarter-finals

games.

Juventus overtake Inter Milan to go top in Serie A, but Inter can go back to the summit if they beat Napoli at 19:45 GMT. It was Ronaldo’s second hat-trick for Juve, having scored three against Atletico Madrid in last season’s Champions League last-16 tie. He has scored three hat-tricks for Portugal since then.

The former Manchester United forward is the first player since Alexis Sanchez to score a hat-trick in the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A. (BBC Sport)

ovak Djokovic led Serbia to the quarter-finals of the inaugural ATP Cup by winning both his singles and doubles matches against group rivals France.

After France led through Benoit Paire’s win over Dusan Lajovic, world number two Djokovic beat Gael Monfils 6-3 6-2.

Djokovic and Viktor Troicki beat Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin to win 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 10-3 in Brisbane.

Rafael Nadal’s Spain beat Uruguay to close on the last eight in Australia.

After world number 10 Roberto Bautista Agut thrashed Franco Roncadelli 6-1 6-2, world number one Nadal eased past Pablo Cuevas 6-2 6-1 to seal the Perth tie before Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno Busta beat Ariel Behar and Juan Martin Fumeaux 6-1 3-6 10-3 in the doubles.

The one-sided victory in the best-of-three tie completed a second whitewash for the Davis Cup champions, who beat Georgia on Saturday.

They will finish as Group B winners if they beat Japan on Wednesday.

Austria boosted their chances of qualification from Group E with a 3-0 win against Argentina in Sydney.

World number four Dominic Thiem beat Argentine number one Diego Schwartzman after team-mate Dennis Novak recovered from a first-set bagel to beat Guido Pella 0-6 6-4 6-4.

Oliver Marach and Jurgen Melzer won the doubles as Austria put their opening defeat by Croatia behind them.

(BBC Sport)

Warne selling ‘baggy green’ cap’ for bushfire appeal

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ustralian cricket great Shane Warne is set to raise more than 300,000 Australian dollars (£160,000) for the bushfire appeal by auctioning off his prized ‘baggy green’ Test cap.

The 50-year-old wore the cap throughout his 145-Test career, in which he took an Australian record 708 wickets.

At least 24 people have died since the fires began in September.

“Everyone is in this together and we continue to find ways to contribute and help on a daily basis,” said Warne.

“This has led me to auction off my beloved baggy green cap that I wore throughout my Test career.

“I hope my baggy green can raise some significant funds to help all those people that are in desperate need.”

All money raised will go to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund, with the highest bid at 07:00 GMT on Monday standing at A$301,500. The auction is open until Friday.

The fires are a natural part of the Australian weather cycle, but have been worsened this year by hotter-than-average temperatures and a persistent drought in many areas.

Warne is Test cricket’s second-most successful bowler, with only Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan (800) taking more wickets.

The ‘baggy green’ is given to an Australian Test player when he makes his international debut and cricketers usually wear the same cap throughout their career.

Legendary batsman Don Bradman’s ‘baggy green’ fetched A$425,000 (£225,000) in 2003 - the Australian, who died in 2001,

Legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne is auctioning off his Baggy Green to raise money for victims of Australia’s devastating bushfires

has the highest Test average of 99.94 runs.

Tennis stars also pledge financial support Novak Djokovic, the world number two in men’s tennis, has also pledged financial support to the relief fund, matching the A$25,000 donation given by fivetime women’s Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova.

Sharapova, 32, asked Djokovic to support the cause after saying on Sunday she would donate, with Serbia’s 16-time major winner agreeing to help in a Twitter message to the Russian on Monday.

Australian world number one Ashleigh Barty has already said she will give all of her prize money from the Brisbane International to the relief fund. (BBC Sport)

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

21

Khary Pierre's ODI prospects

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Khary Pierre

est Indies begin their 2020 with their white ball cricket firmly focused in one direction - appropriately, towards T20 cricket. The T20 World Cup in Australia is clearly the most important contest they will be involved with this year.

You’d expect the shortest international format to be prioritised accordingly, in terms of rotation, resources, and in the minds of the players. Kieron Pollard has an exciting group of players who could do plenty, with the right guidance and expertise.

However, there is still work to do in the other formats. The Test team have important and challenging series’ against South Africa (at home) and England (away from home), in a time of transition and rebuilding that needs to start yielding results.

Yet it’s in the ODI format - the lowest profile in the 12 months ahead, you’d suggest - that the Windies have the biggest opportunity to mould a side in whichever image they see fit.

The core of white ball cricketers they have grown through the domestic system, and the

Caribbean Premier League, is versatile and ready to take the step up. The three-match ODI series against Ireland, starting this week, represents a fantastic chance for players on the periphery of the set-up to make the leap to the forefront of the selectors' minds.

No player is more ready for that step up than Khary Pierre.

Spin has not been West Indies’ friend in recent ODI seasons, as they have looked around for different options and different roles.

They haven’t been able to nail either role, in truth - they have had the second worst strike rate of any ODI spin unit in the last two years, and the third worst economy rate. It’s the area of the side which most obviously requires improvement if the Caribbean side are to take a step up.

Pierre is more of a containing spinner than an attacking one, and the Windies are aware of this - having played two ODIs already, it’s clear they know his best role. In domestic cricket, Pierre has a very tidy economy of just 4.64rpo, and has never gone at over 5rpo in a Super50 season. He’s an excellent option for a Windies team packed with ultra-attacking seamers, and being able to maintain a lower scoring rate

in the middle overs could well improve the effectiveness of those seamers, at the top and tail.

His economy could be a natural consequence of his brisk bowling speed. An average speed of 89kph, and with 64% of his deliveries being faster than that, is evidence of how he darts the ball through. An average deviation of just 2.1 degrees is enough to beat the bat - and maintain threat - but is not vast, and also points to him refusing to throw the ball up and put revolutions on the ball. He knows his strength, that fast arm and skid off the surface, and he uses it to great effect.

He has only played two ODIs so far, finding his feet in international cricket slowly but surely. With the experience he will no doubt get in the T20I fixtures to be played over the next few months, he’s well poised to develop into a significant player in both Windies white ball teams. The Ireland series will be a chance for him to establish himself in the team against a batting line-up predominantly made up of righthanders, away from whom Pierre naturally turns the ball. The opportunity couldn't be better placed for Pierre right now - and he'll be desperate to grab it with both hands. (CWI)

Funding woes slow Antigua jumper Loomis' Tokyo Olympic bid

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ntiguan high jump specialist Priscilla Loomis has highlighted facing significant financial obstacles in her bid to compete for the country at this summer’s Tokyo Olympic Games.

The 30-year-old athlete had previously hinted at retirement after narrowly failing to qualify for last year’s Doha World Championships. On that occasion, the Pan Am Games silver medalist pointed to several factors that influenced her consideration, chiefly among them was a lack of

available funding.

Despite the change of heart regarding her decision to continue competing for the tiny island nation, the funding issues remain.

“It is what it is at this point. My husband and I spoke and he took out a personal loan to fund me and to make sure that I have whatever I need for funding so that was one of the biggest reasons why I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to even train, I knew I would not have been able to do it on

the funding [from NOC],” Loomis told the Antigua Observer in a recent interview.

The Antigua and Barbuda National Olympic Committee (NOC) assists with the funding of elite athletes that compete for the country. The stipend is believed to be in the region of $US 1000 per month. Loomis, however, seems to deem the amount to not just be insufficient but more significantly not always disbursed on time.

“I know I am not the only athlete that had

minimal funding and so when we sat down and put our numbers out I had to take a step back a little bit from my business, which my clients were totally okay with. So I worked four days per month to help with the rent where I lived, to train and then my husband took out the personal loan for the rest of the year to get me what I need in terms of clothing, shoes, medicine, gear, nutrition and all that.” (Sportsmax)

BFA/GT Beer/Candy Boss/Antics 8-a-side football tournament…

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he sharpshooters in the Paradise Football Club of West Coast Berbice (Region 5) have this year prevailed over stiff competition is the BFA/ GT Beer/Candy Boss/Antics 8-a -side Inter-Club Invitational Football tournament, to emerge champions thereof and take the coveted title along with undisputed bragging rights, plus $600,000 prize money, a trophy, and medals for each player.

In the tournament’s grand finale, played under lights on Saturday evening at the All Saints Presbyterian Church Ground in New Amsterdam, the football wizards of Monedderlust could not conjure up three goals to match the tally of their arch-rivals, last year’s losing finalists, Paradise -who were led by a double from the sharpshooting Jamal Fraser -- and so, disappointingly, had to concede defeat at 3-2.

It is true that Monedderlust dominated the first half of the game, sending ten shots at the goal as against five from Paradise. And it is also true that the wizard Nerd McDonald scored in the 30th + 3rd minute; and four minutes after the resumption, another wizard, Raynand Frank, put Monedderlust two up when he also scored.

But the sharpshooters of Paradise began responding to those challenges when Nigel

Reynolds scored their first goal in the 40th minute. He scored from the penalty spot after the referee had ruled that Monedderlust were guilty of handling the ball inside the 30yard box.

Then the Paradise equalizer came in the 55th minute, when the sharpshooting Jamal Fraser made no mistake after he had found the Monedderlust goalkeeper out of place.

With the scores equalized at 2-all, the battle for supremacy was truly on; thus, when Referee Colin Bowery blew his whistle against Monedderlust in the 59th minute for a handled-ball infraction, Paradise supporters, anticipating accuracy, went into a frenzy of celebration.

The sharpshooting Fraser took the shot, and made no mistake in giving Paradise their first lead in the game. The scores then read: Paradise 3, Monedderlust 2, and remained thus until the end of the game.

Several hundred fans had turned out to witness these two West Berbice teams battle for supremacy; and although an age-old rivalry exists between Paradise FC and Monedderlust FC, they had never previously met in a major final.

As for the third-place playoff between Cougars FC and Hopetown United, an Atwell McDonald goal scored in the 47th minute was all that was

Paradise FC are the tournament’s new champions

needed for the Cougars of East Berbice to claim the third spot.

That game was playing at a very fast pace, and the Cougars completely dominated the first half, sending 10 shots at goal as against 5 from Hopetown FC; but when Referee Micha Erskine blew his whistle to end the first half, neither team had scored.

Before play in the grand

finale commenced, members of both teams were introduced to the Brand Manager of GT Beer, Jeff Clements, and to the Regional Executive Officer of Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne), Kim Stephens.

The finalists in this tournament were determined after Paradise had defeated Hopetown 4-0 and

Monedderlust had got past Cougars 1-0 in semifinal action.

This tournament, sponsored by beverage giants Banks DIH under their GT Beer brand, commenced on December 6th with two-time champions Police FC being knocked out

by Hopetown United. (Andrew Carmichael)

22

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Priyanna bags silver in Honolulu Open tournament B

adminton sensation Guyanese Priyanna Ramdhani has, in 2020, wasted no time in adding a silver medal to her already vast collection of medals obtained from playing her favourite sport.

Over the past weekend, this 18-year-old copped a silver medal playing in the finals of the 2020 Honolulu Open ‘A Division’ Badminton tournament, hosted in Hawaii, USA from January 3-5, 2020.

This is the first tournament in which she has participated for 2020.

Priyanna spent her birthday (January 2) travelling from Canada, where she secured a scholarship some months ago, to Hawaii to attend the Honolulu Open; and from all indications, her training during the Christmas holiday has paid off greatly: she has been able to compete in the senior division, although she is still considered a junior player. And she medalled!

In the round-robin segment of the Open Singles ‘A Division’ tourna-

2019 Achievements:

Bronze: (Singles) ACAC #1 Tournament in Olds, Alberta Canada 2019 Bronze: (Mixed Doubles) The Kings University Open Tournament in Edmonton, Canada 2019 Gold: (Singles) Yonex Alberta Series #1 ‘B Flight’ Tournament in Calgary, Canada 2019 Gold: (Women’s Doubles) Yonex Alberta Series # 1 ‘B Flight’ Tournament in Calgary, Canada 2019 Gold: (Mixed Doubles) Yonex Alberta Series #1 ‘C Flight’ Tournament in Calgary, Canada 2019 Semi-Finals: (Singles) Yonex Alberta Series #1 ‘A Flight’ Tournament in Calgary, Canada 2019 Semi-Finals:(Women’s Doubles) Yonex Alberta Series #1 ‘A Flight’ Tournament in Calgary Canada 2019 Silver: Yonex AJC Junior Under-19 Tournament in Airdrie Alberta, Canada 2019 3 Gold: (Triple Champion) Caribbean International Under-19 Championships in Barbados 2019 1 Bronze & 2 Quarter-Finals at the Caribbean International Senior Championships in Barbados 2019 Qualified and participated in the Pan-Am Games in Lima Peru 2019 First Round- Jamaica International in Kingston 2019

Priyanna Ramdhani, following her silver medal performance

ment, Ramdhani competed against Rachel Cheung, whom she defeated 21-11, 21-13. She then competed against Samantha Hsu, whom she also defeated 2115, 21-17.

However, she lost her momentum in the final when she competed against

Eyota Kwan, who defeated her 21-13, 21-10, hence her earning silver. The silver medal is a great start to the year, and shows Priyanna’s consistency in the sport, but she will be looking to continue the exceptional performances she had recorded in 2019.

Trophy Stall kickstarts EBFA calendar with U-13 League

MYO/Trophy Stall Inter-Jamaat Softball Cricket competition…

Play resumes on January 12

Trophy Stall’s Managing Director Ramesh Sunich (3rd right), handing over the winning trophy to EBFA President Kevin Anthony at that entity’s Bourda Market location. Other EBFA executive members share the moment

M T

MYO have so far won all of their games

he inclement weather has eased, and the sun is out, thus fanatics of softball cricket are invited to again be out in support of the MYO/Trophy Stall Inter-Jamaat Softball Cricket Competition, which is scheduled for resumption of play on January 12, 2020 at the MYO Ground on Woolford Avenue in Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport, MYO Senior Vice President, Sports Committee Chairman Imran Ally, has said he was impressed with the action that had taken place in 2019, and expects that 2020 would bring greater outcomes.

He also said a list of sponsors has been earmarked for this year, and their cooperation would see the competition being played on a grander scale.

“We have MYO/A. Ally and Sons to run off a competition in Berbice. Also, we have MYO/Raf’s Variety for Georgetown, and we are currently looking for one in Essequibo.

We also have plans to bring the top two teams from each county to compete, to see

who will be the best.

“Also, we have plans for a football competition, so that youths can get more involved (in sports),” Ally disclosed.

Ten teams have registered to participate, two more than had obtained the last time the tournament was held. These teams are: LBI ‘A’ Masjid, LBI ‘B’ Masjid, New Mosque, New Amsterdam Masjid, MYO, Cornelia Ida Masjid, Leonora Masjid, Tuschen Train Station Masjid, Hague Masjid, and Diamond New Scheme Masjid.

Teams have come from new masjids, he said; such as four from the West Coast and one all the way from Berbice. Fixtures will be released at a later date, he explained.

This event is sponsored by Trophy Stall.

The points’ standings for 2020 see New Amsterdam on top with 12 points, while MYO and Cornelia Ida are tied on eight points. Tuschen and Hague both have six points; LBI ‘B’ has 4 points; LBI ‘A’ and Diamond are each on two points, while New Mosque is yet to get off the mark.

anaging Director of The Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, on Monday reaffirmed his entity’s commitment to sponsorship of the East Bank Football Association’s (EBFA’s) Under-13 League.

In a simple ceremony held at Trophy Stall’s Bourda Market location -- wherein he presented the trophies to be used in this tournament to EBFA President Kevin Anthony in the presence of executive members of this football association -- Sunich remarked that he was happy to be approached by former EBFA President Franklin Wilson to sponsor the Under-13 League; and he said that on the basis of a longstanding relationship, he did not hesitate to support the continued development of the sport through support of the youths.

“I have been doing this for many years now, on the East Bank and (in) other areas; and therefore, when Frankie approached (me) to renew and continue this partnership, I could not (disagree). As the immediate past president of the EBFA, Frankie has done a fantastic job (at) leading, and I was glad that he approached me to support, as he would love to see the youths there continue to grow and develop to the highest possible level,” Sunich said.

He informed that the top four clubs would each receive attractive trophies, while members of the top three teams would respectively be presented with gold, silver and

bronze medals. He also said that new medals, designed exclusively by Trophy Stall, would be unveiled.

Responding on behalf of the EBFA, Anthony expressed gratitude to Sunich and Trophy Stall for continuing to partner with the association to develop young players of the sport.

“Your commitment shows that you are truly committed to the development of young people in Guyana; and whilst it is the EBFA that is enjoying this sponsorship, I am aware that other youths have been enjoying your support, not only in football, but in other sports also,” Anthony said.

The Trophy Stall/EBFA U-13 League, scheduled for kick- off early next month, would see these nine clubs contesting: Agricola Red Triangle, Friendship All Stars, Grove Hi Tech, Swan FC, Timehri Panthers Sports Club, Soesdyke Falcons, Diamond United, Samatta Point/Kaneville, and Mocha Champs.

The defending champions are Timehri Panthers, which had won the previous league, then sponsored by Juicy Juice. They will open the league in a match against Agricola Red Triangle, a team against which they had prevailed by a lone goal to win the previous league. Timehri had ended that league two points ahead of Agricola, which had ended that league on 23 points.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

23

Ireland’s Tour of the West Indies…

Men in Maroon versus Men in Green starts today

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est Indies, donning their traditional Maroon colour, come into this three-match ODI series that will be followed by three T20 matches off a narrow 2-1 one-day series loss against India which will give them confidence based on the quality of opposition, despite losing.

The Windies beat Ireland, twice in Dublin back in May in a tri-nation series involving Bangladesh, so they will be even more confident in home conditions o f beati n g them i n this series starting in Barbados Andrew Balbirnie

Despite being replaced as captain, T20 World Cup today, from 1:30 pm.

All-rounder Jason Holder and Kemar William Porterfield remains in the squad later this year, and Roach have been rested for the first two but they have started to bring in some with good competition matches as they look to manage his work- younger talent as veteran Tim Murtagh for places they should load but they otherwise have a strong has been left out and their hopes will rely have far too much ball for the squad at their disposal led by skipper heavily on key men such as Balbirnie, quality with both bat and tourists in this opening game.

Adair, Rankin and Stirling.

Kieron Pollard and their recent upturn West Indies squad for 1st & Ireland competed well with in form against Afghanistan and 2nd ODI: Kieron Pollard (c), Sunil West Indies and Bangladesh India will boost their confidence sigAmbris, Roston Chase, Sheldon in a tri-nation series back in nificantly.

Cottrell, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai May in Ireland but this will Ireland, nicknamed the Men in Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon be a much sterner challenge.

Green, kick off this Caribbean tour King, Evin Lewis, Keemo Paul, West Indies have gone through motivated to get some positive reKhary Pierre, Nicholas Pooran, something of a rebuilding sults and they will take heart from a Romario Shepherd, Hayden phase in recent times 3-0 win over Zimbabwe in the last Walsh Jr. and they look to have series they played in this forIreland ODI squad: turned the corner mat of the game back in July Andrew Balbirnie (c), under Kieron in Belfast.

Mark Adair, Gareth P o l l a r d Ireland will be led by new Delany, Andrew and head captain Andy Balbirnie who McBrine, Barry coach Phil has been one of their batMcCarthy, James Simmons. ting stars in recent times and McCollum, Kevin They mean he was in great form the last O’Brien, William business time these two teams met in Porterfield, Boyd in white May in Malahide as he walRankin, Simi Singh, ball cricket loped 135 from just 124 balls Paul Stirling, Lorcan these days, to help Ireland to a total of Tucker, Gary Wilson, especial327/5 - but that ultimately Nicholas Pooran Craig Young. ly with the proved a little short.

Sheldon Cottrell

Turbo Knockout Football Tournament…

Play resumes on Wednesday night

A little of what to expect when the Turbo Knockout Tournament resumes on Wednesday evening

F

ootball will make an early return to the Ministry of Education Ground at Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown this year, as the third edition of the Turbo Knockout Football Tournament reconvenes tomorrow, Wednesday January 8.

Following its November 2019 commencement, the third installment of the straight knockout tournament had been abruptly halted by heavy rains which had rendered the Carifesta Avenue venue unplayable. Tournament coordinators, The Petra Organization, had made the executive decision to wait out the usually rainy December season and restart the tournament in January 2020.

Everything is in place for the tourna-

ment to resume on Wednesday, when the final preliminary game will be contested.

In that encounter, Limacol 2019 tournament runners-up Santos FC Under 20 will go head-to-head against the experienced Black Pearl FC at 18:30hrs, to determine the holders of the last spot in the tournament’s quarterfinal stage.

The quarterfinal stage will kick off on Friday evening with Pouderoyen taking on Buxton Under 20 at 19:00hrs, and Buxton Stars locking horns with Fruta Conquerors Under 20 at 21:00hrs.

The second set of quarter- final games, to be played on Sunday, January 12, will witness Riddim Squad squaring off against defending champions Northern Rangers at 19:00hrs, after which the Georgetown

Football Club (GFC) will take on the winner of Wednesday night’s game.

For those who may not recall, the preliminary round of the Turbo Knockout Tournament was packed with excitement.

Defending champions Northern Rangers had sent a resounding message about their intentions for the third installment of the tournament with a 6-5 victory over Timehri Panthers. That exhilarating encounter had seen a brace from Wendell St. Hill combining with single goals from Tevin Fowler, Tevin Bowen, Colin Clarke and Keith Caines to produce the Northern Rangers’ six goals.

The Timehri Panthers’ goal scorers were Shannon Samnauth, Oliver Denny, Travis Thornhill, Jared Walcott and Trek Khan.

Buxton Stars had edged past Camptown 1-0 through a 35th minute Jumai Major goal, and Pouderoyen had outclassed Pele in a 2-0 encounter.

Riddim Squad had made their way into the quarterfinal stage with a 3-1 victory over Eagles FC. Wendell Joseph had reg-

istered two goals, while Kevin Agard had added one for Riddim Squad’s three. Andre Adelph had netted the consolation goal for Eagles FC in the first minute.

After action from the penalty mark, Fruta Conquerors FC Under 20 had sealed their spot with a 4-2 penalty win over Police ‘B’. During regulation time, Wayne Baker and Amanike Buntin had scored for Fruta and Police respectively in the 1-1 lock.

A goal each from Ravi Junior and Kelsey Benjamin had ensured that Georgetown Football Club (GFC) would get a quarterfinal spot ahead of Mahaica Determinators, while the tournament’s other Under 20 outfit, Buxton United, had schooled Uitvlugt FC 3-1.

The winner of the Guyana Beverage Inc-sponsored tournament would walk away with the grand prize of $400,000; while the team placing second would obtain $200,000, the team placing third would pocket $100,000, and the team placing fourth would bag $50,000. (Jemima Holmes)

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020

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

Ireland’s Tour of the West Indies…

Men in Maroon versus Men in Green starts today Page 23

Trophy Stall kick-starts Priyanna bags EBFA calendar with silver U-13 League Page 22

in Honolulu Open tournament Page 22

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