Guyanatimes 10 may 2018

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Thursday, May 10, 2018

Issue No. 3559

PRICE

Singh, Brassington prosecution

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Charges intended to satisfy PNC supporters – Jagdeo

Fish shop fire

Owner’s reputed wife charged for torching P8 business

...“What we are witnessing is State bullyism, political harassment of the very worst kind” – Ashni Singh …as former Minister, NICIL Head questioned by SOCU …released on $200,000 station bail each

Pages 2&3

Suspect in custody seen in Suriname before attacks – Top Cop Page 7

Cane cutter dies in Berbice accident Page 5

$80 vat included

NIS fraudster slapped with forgery charges P8 P5 Bandits snatch cash from minibus stopped in Agricola Gas station robbery

Taxi driver P15 identifies accomplices …Police recover $370,000 of $5M booty from suspect’s mom

President David Granger, First Lady Sandra Granger, European Union Ambassador Jernej Videtič and his wife, Ruta Drizyte-Videtič and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon pose for a photo op at the Europe Day reception on Wednesday evening

India’s State Minister on outreach programme in Guyana

Exhibition P16 opened for 73rd anniversary of victory over fascism

Page 16

…to “deepen” relations

LGE talks

AFC presses P10 APNU for more influence

2 news

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“What we are witnessing is State bullyism, political harassment of the very worst kind” – Ashni Singh ...questioned by SOCU …released on $200,000 station bail each

O

ne day after being released on $6 million bail each, former Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and former Chief Executive Officer of the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) Winston Brassington were called

“If these cases are tainted in criminality, are they now going to charge all the persons who purchased? That would even be more ridiculous” – Nandlall

in for questioning by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

On Wednesday, the two former Government officials, accompanied by their lawyers – Anil Nandlall, Mark Waldron and Sase Gunraj – arrived at SOCU’s headquarters in Georgetown at about 09:00h and left some four hours later with SOCU officials.

Nandlall told the press, who waited patiently outside SOCU, that the two were questioned about 27 allegations of misconduct in public office, even on matters dating back to 1994.

These involve the sale of lands which include Guyana Stockfeeds; Marilyn Odu, Bel Air Spring; Clairan’s, Church Street, Georgetown;

Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, in Kingston, Georgetown; Roraima Group of Companies; Pritipaul Singh Investments;

“We have produced records showing what we did and there is nothing wrong in what we did” – Winston Brassington Hand-in-Hand; National Hardware, Covent Garden; Twin’s Manufacturing; Old GPC, Anthony Pierres; Property Holdings Inc; I Ali; Hicks, Linden; Sanata at Industrial Site; Mohabir, Linden and SOL (fuel) com-

Dr Ashni Singh and Winston Brassington as they exited SOCU Headquarters in Georgetown on Wednesday afternoon as they made their way to CID Headquarters where they were placed on bail

pany in Linden. and were also questioned.

The lead attorney noted that no allegation of dishonesty was made, nor are there any allegations that the duo has stolen public funds, or profited from these transactions. These transactions, according to him, had received the approval of Cabinet, and were one on the recommendations of the NICIL Board. “I maintain that these charges are intended to harass, humiliate and persecute these persons,” he asserted.

Nandlall told Guyana Times that he was advised that the charges were recommended by advice received from Dr Sam Sittlington, who is assisting SOCU. “If these cases are tainted in criminality, are they now going to charge all the persons who purchased?

That would even be more ridiculous.”

He said it amounts to unfairness and unequal treatment meted out to his clients.

In addition to that, Nandlall is arguing that Government distributed over 100,000 house lots which were deliberately sold below market value “Are they going to charge the 100,000 persons who benefited from these housing programme?”

Targeting political opponents

Meanwhile, Dr Singh told the media that the coalition Administration was using SOCU to target its political opponents.

“I would say that what we are witnessing is State bullyism, political harassment of the very worst kind,” he said. Nevertheless, the former Minister said both himself and Brassington are cooperating with SOCU. He reiterated that the

charges for which he and his former colleague were granted bail for, are not only baseless but irrational.

Dr Singh again expressed confidence that the matter would be disposed of and promised to remain focused, explaining that he will not be intimidated by the matter before him.

On the other hand, Brassington also told the media that while being questioned, SOCU officials went through tonnes of files totalling over 20. “They are taking every instance where the valuation is above the selling price and calling it misconduct in public office… cases even if we had a public tender,” he said.

The former NICIL head noted that every single transaction received several layers of approval, first by the Privatisation Unit Board, the NICIL Board and then by Cabinet. “We have produced records showing what we did and there is nothing wrong in what we did. Everything we did we have a justification and an approval from Boards and Cabinet, so it is a travesty in justice,” he added.

Singh and Brassington were taken to the Criminal Investigations Department of the Guyana Police Force.

They were fingerprinted and later released on $200,000 station bail each.

The two former Government officials were charged on Tuesday for allegedly selling several plots of State land on the East Coast of Demerara to National Hardware Guyana Ltd for over $598 million; Scady Business Corporation at a cost of $150 million, and to Multi-cinemas Guyana at a cost of $185 million.

The two will return to SOCU on Monday for further questioning.

news

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

Singh, Brassington prosecution

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

Thursday, May 10 – a night retraction at 01:00h and a day retraction from 13:30h-15:00h and Friday, May 11 – a night retraction at 02:00h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, May 10 – 12:45h-14:15h and Friday, May 11 – 13:40h-15:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light to thundery rain showers can be expected in the morning hours while light cloudy skies with intermittent drizzles and thundershowers can be expected throughout the evening. Temperatures will range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 1.78 metres and 6.25 metres.

High Tide: 00:28h and 12:52h reaching maximum heights of 2.18 metres and 2.23 metres respectively.

Charges intended to satisfy PNC supporters– Jagdeo C

alling charges against his former Finance Minister and a former top official in his then Government a travesty, former President Bharrat Jagdeo on Tuesday warned of repercussions for those responsible should his Party regain power.

During a press conference, the Opposition Leader had harsh words for the prosecution brought against former Finance Minister Ashni Singh and former National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

and many others declared their intention and led by the Kaieteur News, that “we must jail Brassington, Singh, Jagdeo, a whole list of people, for acts of corruption. They declared this across country on their platform.

“Almost every speaker routinely got up and spoke about jailing them. The Government, as soon as it got into office, embarked on a process that they believed would result in this outcome. The process involved these forensic audits, which are not forensic audits by any standards,” he pointed

Low Tide: 06:25h and 18:52h reaching minimum heights of 1.05 metres and 0.92 metre respectively.

The Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) office

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS A

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11 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

DAILY MILLIONS 02 08 13 19 LUCKY 3 0 9

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Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

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Evening Draw

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Winston Brassington. The former President stressed that Singh and Brassington were not charged for having a single cent corruptly attained.

Instead, he noted, they are being charged for selling land without a valuation, even though there was a public tender that set the market value. Warning that more charges are likely to come against former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Ministers for varying ulterior motives, Jagdeo noted that the charges were not unexpected.

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

“It was expected. [A Partnership for National Unity] APNU is operating according to plan. So, in the pre-election period, Granger

out.

Jagdeo said that persons from the coalition Government have called him to express regret over the way the forensic audits were carried out. According to Jagdeo, the charges against the duo prove that the audits did not generate the evidence of corruption that was expected.

“The audits, all 50 or so audits, did not generate the

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

evidence they thought was there. But in face of the fact that APNU is losing ground, it is mired in corruption, scandals, a failing economy, loss of jobs, failing to keep its promises; they are now pushing to pursue a promised outcome at all costs,” Jagdeo stressed.

He also had a message for those behind the orchestration of the charges, warning that while public servants performing their jobs responsibly had nothing to fear if the PPP/C returned to power, the corrupted ones would not be so lucky.

Dr Singh and Brassington have been charged for allegedly selling several plots of land on the East Coast of Demerara to

National Hardware Guyana Ltd for over $598 million, to Scady Business Corporation for $150 million, and to Multi-Cinemas Guyana Inc for $185 million.

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) brought the charges against the two former Government officials early last month. Singh and Brassington are due to return to court on June 5, 2018.

On Wednesday, however, the two voluntarily went into SOCU’s office in the company of their lawyers. Speaking with the media afterwards, Attorney-atLaw and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall said that they went through 27 cases with SOCU officers.

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thursDAY, may 10, 2018

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

Social justice A

ccording to the United Nations, the principles of social justice are upheld when countries promote gender equality or the rights of Indigenous peoples and migrants. Additionally, countries advance social justice when they remove barriers that people face because of gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, or disability.

For the UN, the pursuit of social justice for all is at the core of its global mission to promote development and human dignity. This year’s theme is “Workers on the Move: the Quest for Social Justice”.

The adoption by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) of the Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalisation is just one recent example of its commitment to social justice. The Declaration focuses on guaranteeing fair outcomes for all through employment, social protection, social dialogue, and fundamental principles and rights at work. It constitutes a compass for the promotion of a fair globalisation based on Decent Work, as well as a practical tool to accelerate progress in the implementation of the Decent Work Agenda at the country level. It also reflects a productive outlook by highlighting the importance of sustainable enterprises in creating greater employment and income opportunities for all.

The General Assembly recognises that social development and social justice are indispensable for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security within and among nations and that, in turn, social development and social justice cannot be attained in the absence of peace and security or in the absence of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Further globalisation and interdependence are opening new opportunities through trade, investment and capital flows and advances in technology, including information technology, for the growth of the world economy and the development and improvement of living standards around the world. Today, there remain serious challenges, including serious financial crises, insecurity, poverty, exclusion, and inequality within and among societies and considerable obstacles to further integration and full participation in the global economy for developing countries as well as some countries with economies in transition.

This year journalists around the world brought together concrete stories and testimonies about the challenges of social justice and labour migration and to suggest possible policy responses to address these challenges. They will bring to the fore issues on labour migration by highlighting the positive contribution of migrant workers to countries of origin, transit, and destination as well as the key aspects such as their fair recruitment.

As part of the programme of activities, participants will also contribute to the UN TOGETHER campaign, which has the purpose of encouraging global action in promoting non-discrimination and addressing the problem of rising xenophobia against refugees and migrants.

Secretary General of the ILO, Guy Ryder emphasised that migrant workers, like all workers, are entitled to fair treatment; however, he also pointed out that many migrant workers end up trapped in jobs with low pay and unsafe and unhealthy working conditions, often in the informal economy, without respect for their labour and other human rights.

He further outlined that good governance will foster strong cooperation across migration corridors and regions, which should be guided by international labour standards, in particular the fundamental principles and rights at work and the relevant ILO and UN Conventions.

The ILO is, therefore, encouraging the adoption of fair labour migration governance frameworks at all levels – global, regional and national. These include a comprehensive, integrated and “whole of government” approach that engages labour ministries together with business, and employers’ and workers’ organisations – those on the frontlines of labour markets.

Most migration today is linked, directly or indirectly, to the search for decent work opportunities. While there are many Guyanese who seek employment in other countries, there are also immigrants who have opened businesses locally who are also deserving of fair treatment. On this day, therefore, all Guyanese should join in the global call for social and economic justice and demand that the Government promote inclusive development for all citizens.

Russian army MiG-29 jet fighters of the Strizhi (Swifts) and Su-30 jet fighters of the Russkiye Vityazi (Russian Knights) aerobatic teams fly in formation during the Victory Day parade, marking the 73rd anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in central Moscow (Reuters)

Massive wastage of our taxpayers’ dollars Dear Editor, Political patronage is now adorned with a new disguise. It now travels under the name of CORE, where millions of taxpayers’ dollars are being spent to reward the ‘foot soldiers’ of the People’s National Congress and the Alliance For Change (AFC). This is so glaring since the ‘employees’ comprised members and supporters of these two parties and are predominantly from one racial grouping.

The acronym CORE stands for Community Organised for the Restoration of the Environment, but this is a misnomer, since these ‘employees’ are directly under political control and are at their beck and call since most of the work done is for these political persons.

It is estimated that there are over 400 CORE workers, who work only four days per week and four hours per day – a total of 16 hours per week and are paid $60,000 per month. In contrast, the Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) workers work the same number of hours and days and are paid just $24,000 per month. In addition,

these workers are given expensive gears such as brush cutters. Minister Ferguson had said a person will be capable ‘to earn an honest day’s pay through an honest day’s work’. I will suggest to her that the CORE workers in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) have not lived up to her expectations.

Again, in contrast, the CIIP workers clean and dig drains and they weed hard bushes and grass while the CORE workers in Region Six are idle most of the time. Some can also be seen in front of the residence of an AFC member at Fyrish Village cleaning the sides of the Corentyne Highway.

This work is under contract to a private contractor by the Public Infrastructure Ministry, so why the duplication? The CIIP workers are weeding, digging, clearing and cleaning the streets and drains of the various communities, so what work are the CORE workers doing? It must be recalled that the CORE workers should be responsible for ‘environmental upgrade, weeding, cleaning, drainage clearing, sanitation and general beautification’, but unfortunately these works are duplications

of works already done by the private contractor, the CIIP and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC).

This is massive wastage of our taxpayers’ dollars.

At our Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting held on May 4, 2018, the Regional Executive Officer, the Chairman and the Vice Chairman and the entire RDC could not say who employs and controls the CORE workers in Berbice, what work they are doing or who is responsible for their supervision and payment. It is not even known how many CORE workers are on the Infrastructure Ministry’s payroll. The Chairman had wanted these CORE workers to do some cleaning at the Highbury Indian Arrival Site, but no one could say through whom they can be contacted. It was also mentioned by an NDC Councillor from the Number 52/74 NDC that efforts to get them to clean 63 Beach was futile. They did no work at the Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan Memorial Site at Babu Jaan, they did no work at the Rose Hall Martyr’s Site so it begs the question: What restorative works

are the CORE workers doing? Minister Ferguson had proudly stated that “the aim of CORE is to restore the environment… and be involved in critical projects coming out of the Ministry”.

Is this being done in Region Six? The CORE programme was launched in March 2017 and it was launched in Region Six over a year ago, yet the RDC is oblivious of its operations. There were suggestions that just like the CIIP workers, the CORE workers should be controlled by the RDC and not any political party, all employment should be processed through the RDC. The RDC knows where these workers can be effectively deployed. It is also alleged that the payroll is inflated and monies are siphoned off by the political hacks in control.

Our economy cannot sustain this type of wastage of our scarce resources. It is time Ministers Patterson and Ferguson clamp down on this type corrupt practice in Region Six. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councillor, Region Six

LGC must function without political direction

Dear Editor, The Local Government Commission (LGC) Act was passed in Parliament in 2013 after which the LGC was formed to address and solve local government issues in the various municipalities and NDCs in Guyana. The LGC is mandated under section 19 of the LGC Act 2013 to recruit (by the prescribed procedures in keeping with the law), discipline and dismiss staff at all Local Authority Areas (LAA) as one of its many tasks.

With these powers bestowed on the Local Government Commission, can this body fulfil their mandate effectively and without impartiality?

Recently I noticed in the media numerous amounts of corruption were highlighted by Neil Kumar, asking the LGC to investigate.

How quickly can these matters be addressed, and will there be any cover for certain matters or individuals.

The issue pertaining to the hiring of the Town Clerk at the Rose Hall

municipality was dealt with in a timely manner by the Local Government Commission, despite over ruling a unanimous decision of the municipality. I do hope other issues raised

by Kumar will be given the same preferential treatment to be resolve immediately.

Because of the composition and the way a specific Commissioner was chosen, I am of the view that this Commission will be using it power to hired persons who are working in

the best interest of the coalition Government to derail and destabilise the LAAs managed by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). I am confident that the PPP nominees are fighters who will highlight the deficiencies to ensure that the mandate of this important independent Commission is not politically hijacked by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change coalition Government.

Sincerely, Zamal Hussain

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News

Cane cutter dies in Berbice accident Guyana Times understands that Jagmohan and his wife separated about three weeks ago. Since then the cane harvester had been receiving his meals from an aunt, who lives in the same village.

According to his cousin Vanie, on Tuesday, Jagmohan came and asked

her mother for some food.

She said after he ate, he left.

She said about 15 minutes later, they received a telephone call stating that he might have been involved in an accident. She said the pictures were posted on social media which prompted her parents to go to the

Corentyne Highway.

According to Vanie, Jagmohan was at the Port Mourant Hospital when her parents arrived. She said the Police informed them that Jagmohan was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Hospital.

(Andrew Carmichael)

Bandits snatch cash from minibus stopped in Agricola

Dead: Lalta Jagmohan

A

teenager is in custody assisting with the investigation into the death of a pedal cyclist, who was struck down on the Corentyne Highway, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The dead man has been identified as Lalta Jagmohan, also called “Puta Low”, 30, a cane cutter of Sand Reef, Albion.

The accident occurred at Nigg Village about 19:10h on Tuesday.

The car that struck down Lalta Jagmohan

According to the Police, motor car PRR 9091, driven by a teenager of Fyrish, Corentyne, was proceeding east along the northern driveway when the cyclist, who was also proceeding in the same direction, but on the southern side of the road, allegedly rode from south to north into the path of the vehicle.

After the resultant collision, the injured man was picked up in an unconscious

state and rushed to the Port Mourant Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to the Police, the driver who passed a breathalyser test is in custody assisting with the investigation.

Meanwhile, a post-mortem examination conducted on the body on Wednesday gave the cause of death as a fractured skull and brain haemorrhage.

P

olice are searching for three men who robbed a minibus which stopped at Agricola, Greater Georgetown, to drop off passengers.

Reports are the three men walked up to the minibus at about 11:30h and snatched the cash which the conductor had in his hand and made good their escape into Agricola. This newspaper was told the passengers in the bus did not realised what had taken placed until the conductor raised an alarm.

Meanwhile, three armed bandits attacked the driver of a route 44 minibus on the East Coast minibus park on Saturday last.

The victim, Mark Bowen, 35, of North Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was attacked and robbed at about 01:30h.

According to reports, Bowen who had concluded working for the day, was sitting in his minibus counting his day’s earnings when he was approached by three men, one of whom was

armed with a handgun, one with an ice pick and the other with a cutlass.

The perpetrator with the gun pointed it to Bowen’s head demanding that he hand over the cash. The frightened man complied after which the said bandit proceeded to enter the victim’s bus, removing his keys.

The trio then escaped on foot, reportedly in an eastern direction. Bowen reported the matter at the Brickdam Police Station and an investigation was launched.

Charges against PPP officials an indication of APNU/AFC ineptitude Dear Editor, Misconduct in public office and value for money are two terms the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration professes to hold in priority, and as such, three years after launching investigations into billions upon billions in developmental transactions they have charged former Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Executive Director, Winston Brassington.

The facts reveal, however, that the APNU/AFC Government under the guise

of good public management and accountability for the State’s resources is rather using the judicial system as a tool of silencing any voice of opposition.

Attorney General Basil Williams and President David Granger himself, though not a lawyer, must be clear that the case against the two top financial officers does not hold water and will in fact be dismissed by any Magistrate.

In my view, as, the economic advisor to the political Opposition there is no plausible reason to charge the two for any financial crimes since none was committed.

Firearm licence for all registered fishing boats Dear Editor, I have been following the horrific tragedy of my Guyanese brothers who were mercilessly slaughtered at the hands of pirates.

My deepest sympathy goes out to the families of the deceased and all those who have suffered. I have a suggestion that I think can stop piracy on the high seas and what I am suggesting must be addressed immediately by the Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan.

Every fishing boat must be registered and licensed.

Every fishing boat captain must be registered and licensed. Every registered captain must be given a firearm licence and a fire-

arm which will be kept at the Police Station nearest to the captain's residence.

Whenever the captain is going out to sea, he must submit a list with the names of his crew and time of departure to the Police station. An officer from the station must uplift the firearm from the station and escort the captain to his boat and hand over the firearm before departure. Upon return from his fishing trip, the captain must immediately report to the Police station and surrender his firearm which will be kept there until he is ready to go to sea again.

Regards, K Jones (Canada)

What David Granger and those in the Cabinet and Government are quickly realising is that a State is not run as a business where a profit margin is the only consideration.

Both Brassington and Dr Singh have been charged with executing the decisions of the Cabinet Counsel of Ministers – it is not as if these two men arbitrarily took possession of pieces of State land, sold them and then pocketed the cash.

Had this been the case then most assuredly the People's Progressive Party (PPP)

would be in full support of their prosecution.

Actions by this Administration must not be seen in isolation of each other and as such, the sedition clause in the Cyber Crimes Bill, aimed at silencing the citizenry, has to be seen in the context of the Granger Government’s plot to silence elected representatives through fabricated charges.

Remember, while in Opposition, David Granger and his acolytes accused the PPP of siphoning 20 per cent of the annual Budget through corruption.

If there is any guilty of misconduct in public office is this Administration, which paid millions to uncover its much touted ‘corruption under the PPP.’ So far the Granger Administration successes as a result of the millions spent is to go after patriotic Guyanese serving their country, this in order to save face and to show constituencies that the APNU/ AFC Government is taking action.

Nothing is further from the truth; the Granger Administration is instead laying the foundation to

eliminate members of the PPP from appearing on its 2020 candidates list to contest the Regional and General Elections.

Misconduct in public office would be the D’Urban Park Project or the blatant misuse of public funds to target members of the political Opposition.

Sincerely, Peter R Ramsaroop, MBA, PHD Economic Advisor to the political Opposition

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By Jill Leibowitz, PsyD

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hen we involve ourselves in our children’s activities intending to be encouraging, supportive, and empowering, we may be interfering with key aspects of their development. When we join them in political protest, we may disrupt their need to experience the risk that goes along with it and that aids in the development of a sense of courage, pride, and agency.

They took away his protest

During the week of the national school walkout to protest gun violence in the US, all of my adolescent patients described their participation in the protest and the ways in which their various public and private NYC schools supported them.

I was impressed to hear about their schools’ support and involvement until I saw my last appointment of the week. As 14-year-old Jonah told me about his participation in his school’s walkout, this soft-spoken adolescent’s voice became increasingly louder. He complained that the faculty at his school participated in it. Worse, they organised it!

“It was so overly organised,” he reported with indignation. “It was supposed to be a student protest. But by making it a school activity, they took away our protest!”

Protest is an important vehicle for growth

Protest is part of a lengthy process of becoming a separate, independent individual. While the process becomes active during the first year of life, it becomes most evident during the “terrible twos”— that time in development when toddlers begin to assert their autonomy, shouting “NO!” and melting down at seemingly slight provocations.

Parents’ mistakes are unavoidable, and they can become the useful basis for our children’s protest. Even if we aim to be perfect parents, inevitably, we will fail. Minor failures are not just unavoidable, they are a necessary and intricate

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Foundation

part of our children’s development that propel them towards a sense of agency.

The “good-enough mother”

The term good-enough mother highlights the importance of disappointment and protest as critical developmental experiences for babies. Minor “failures” – for example, not getting milk to the baby the instant he feels hunger – help the baby to gradually understand that the caregiver is someone to whom he must communicate need.

Babies cry to let their mother/caregiver know they are hungry.

When mommy responds to the crying by feeding him, he proudly discovers his sense of agency; his power to have an impact on his world.

Kids need to rebel in order to separate

As children become more self-sufficient, their form of protest must evolve and become more complex. Gone are the days when they cried to be fed. Now they yell when we tell them to take out the garbage. They wear clothes they know we don’t approve of. They find creative ways to defy us and, within certain limits, it is through this type of rebellion that children experience healthy separateness.

When children rebel against us, they gain a sense of: Courage as they risk our anger, our disapproval, and our punishments; Mastery/agency as they get their needs and desires met, despite our re-

strictions; Pride in what they’ve achieved; Separateness in the very act of rebellion

It’s hard to let go of our children

Separating can be a scary process, for both child and parent. There’s a clear understanding that children are dependent on their parents, but what’s less acknowledged is that parents can become reliant on their children. For better or worse, we see ourselves in our children. We identify with them. We get a vicarious thrill when we experience their youthfulness, agency, and hope (for example, when we proudly share their accomplishments on social media).

We need to be mindful that: Our impending sense of loss and loneliness as our children venture into the world without us may make us want to hold on or take over; Our tendency to be so supportive can destroy the sense of risk needed for our children to develop an authentic sense of courage and pride; Our past complacency regarding societal change may lead to guilt and a desire to co-opt our children’s protest; Our envy regarding our children’s energy and youthful hopefulness may cause us to inadvertently spoil it for them. If we’re too good, too supportive, too helpful, we end up squashing our children’s development. As our children’s protest evolves and becomes more pointed, it is more likely to destabilise us. “Because I said so!” can lead to eye rolls and verbal protests that threaten our own sense of power or worse, humiliate us. We have to tolerate their rebellion in order to show them their strength (and paradoxically, ours). As adults, we need to be careful about the subtle ways that we may inadvertently undermine our children’s protest. Instead of stepping in and taking over, we need to make sure we step back sometimes. We need to allow our children their protest. (psychologytoday.com)

I

n the past 25 years, the world has made major progress improving child health and reducing child mortality. But all that hard work could be undone by climate change, a study published in Pediatrics Tuesday warned.

Paediatricians Dr Kevin Chan of Memorial University and Dr Rebecca Pass Philipsborn of the Emory University School of Medicine found that 88 per cent of the disease burden associated with climate change would fall on children's shoulders, CNN reported Tuesday.

"The basic message is that climate change is occurring, and I think it disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations, and that includes children," Chan told CNN. The article noted that major changes to the global climate are projected to occur within the lifetime of current paediatrics patients, but this isn't just a problem for the near future.

"We already have seen the impacts," Dr Chan told CNN. As examples, Dr Chan cited the health impacts on children caught up in heat waves or more intense storms like Hurricanes Katrina, Harvey and Irma.

Dr Chan also mentioned the spread of the Zika Virus, which some studies have linked to climate change.

Zika disproportionately impacts children because it can cause an incurable birth defect called microcephaly that causes babies to be born with undersized heads and underdeveloped brains.

Director of the programme on climate and health at George Mason University's Centre for Climate Change Communication, Dr Mona Sarfaty, who was not involved with the research, told CNN

that her experience supported its conclusions.

"Children suffer more heat impacts because they spend more time outside. They are more vulnerable to the heat-related increases in air pollution that come from fossil fuel exhaust, because their lungs are still developing. Outdoor play also makes them more prey to insect vectors carrying dangerous infections," Sarfaty said. "The doctors in our societies are seeing these problems today, and they will undoubtedly get worse if we don't decisively address climate change," she added.

In addition to air pollution, heat and the spread of disease-carrying mosquitoes, the study found that climate change could put children at greater risk from malnutrition, as weather extremes impact food production, and from water-borne infections causing diarrhoea, which can also spread in higher temperatures.

The study cited research by the Word Health Organisation (WHO), also cited by EcoWatch, that projected that climate change could lead to 95,000 deaths due to childhood malnutrition and 48,000 deaths of children under 15 due to diarrhoea by 2030.

Dr Chan thought the study indicated a need for more research into how climate change impacts children specifically.

"A lot of the research is very, very broad and tends to look more at adult populations. I don't think they factor in the specific impacts on children themselves, and I think more research is needed in that arena," Dr Chan told CNN. "We really need more efforts into addressing climate change to protect our children," he said. (EcoWatch)

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Chancellor, CJ appointments

“Ball is in Granger’s court” – Jagdeo

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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hen it comes to the appointment of a Chancellor of the Judiciary and a Chief Justice, President David Granger’s recent statement that “the ball is in Jagdeo’s court” is not sitting well with the parliamentary Opposition.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

drew reference to the letter he wrote to Granger since February 2018, when he rejected the President’s nominees. Jagdeo reminded that in his letter, he had committed to continuous engagement with the President.

“He then went to the media and said we will not allow one man to hold this up and I had to subsequently point out that he himself, as Opposition Leader, held it up for nearly six years.

And I had one month. And he said (he) was now seeking legal advice,” Jagdeo recalled.

“He has not said a word to the country about what the legal advice recommended, he has not gotten back to me and he now woke up and says, because I think he forgot everything in between that the ball is in my court.

I believe he still thinks he’s waiting on me for a reply.

This is serious!”

Asked whether he would seek to re-engage the President, Jagdeo made it clear that as the President, Granger would have to

re-initiate the discourse. He noted that he was waiting on the President to get back to him on the mode of future discourse.

“He is the President of

Head of State had said he had looked forward to a timely settlement of the appointment, which many deem critical to the effective functioning of the Judiciary,

“He (President Granger) has not said a word to the country about what the legal advice recommended, he has not gotten back to me and he now woke up and says, because I think he forgot everything in between that the ball is in my court. I believe he still thinks he’s waiting on me for a reply. This is serious!” Jagdeo said.

Guyana. He has to initiate.

I have already given my position. I said I am prepared to engage you further. He has to get back to me on the mode of engagement. That is my position,” Granger said.

Nothing to discuss

A few days ago, President David Granger had said there is nothing left to discuss on the matter. The

but that didn’t happen.

“The ball is in the court of the Leader of the Opposition. I made my proposals, he simply rejected them. He has not made any counter-proposals, so there is nothing to discuss,” President Granger said.

President Granger reminded that the decision is solely dependent on consultations with Jagdeo.

Asked whether he has received legal advice on the way forward in regard to these appointments, Granger said, “I know what needs to be done. I am well advised. But I have to wait on the Leader of the Opposition to respond to my proposal.”

Justice Kenneth Benjamin was nominated for the position of Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards, the current acting Chancellor, has been nominated for the position of Chief Justice.

Concerns have been raised by the Bar Association in Belize about Benjamin’s failure, up to recently, to clear a backlog of cases by writing his decisions.

Jagdeo, in a letter addressed to the President, had said that after having duly considered the nominations of Justice Benjamin and Justice Cummings-Edwards under Article 127 (2) of the Constitution, he is unable to offer his agreement for their appointments.

President David Granger

However, the Opposition Leader has since indicated his willingness to further engage the President on substantive appointments to the top judicial positions.

To this end, Minister of State Joseph Harmon subsequently said Government will be going ahead with “meaningful consultations” between the two sides, as provided for in the Constitution.

Pirate massacre

Suspect in custody seen in Suriname before attacks – Top Cop

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s investigations continue both in Suriname and in Guyana regarding the recent attacks on fishermen on the high seas in Dutch waters, the Guyana Police Force has confirmed that they have information which placed one of the three suspects being held here, over in Suriname just days prior to the attacks.

This was disclosed at a press conference on Wednesday to brief the local press on the recent visit to the neighbouring country by security officials led

by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan.

According to Police Commissioner (ag), David Ramnarine, during the press briefing, the three persons in custody here were held based on information received from Surinamese law enforcement as well as from fisherfolk on the ground. “…The three persons are in custody as a result of information received and it is not definitive at this point in time as to the nature of any involvement or the extent of any involvement at this point in time.

We did receive information from one and two fishermen which seems to have placed one of the persons in custody at a certain area in Suriname prior to the departure of fishermen and a certain conversation would have unfolded but that is as far as we have in this point in time,” Ramnarine noted.

According to the Commissioner, while a lot more work will have to be done to get to the bottom of the matter, local investiga-

tors have since obtained detailed statements and are in constant contact with the Force’s legal advisor.

Moreover, Ramnarine confirmed reports that revenge may have been the cause of the recent attacks on Guyanese fishermen in the Dutch waters.

“There is a lot of work that needs to be done. It seems to be that the basis for this gruesome, heinous and dastardly act had to do with some form of retaliation for one of the persons in custody whose brother was alleged gun downed in a drive-by shooting on 30th of March [2018] in Suriname… We have, among other things, sought extension (of time to further hold the three suspects in custody) because we have a lot of work to do,” the Top Cop stated.

The person who was gunned down in Paramaribo was Somnauth Manohar, a Guyanese fishing boat owner, who was living and working in the neighbouring country. It has been reported that the man’s death stemmed from an ongoing dispute between Guyanese fishermen here and those residing in Suriname over fishing rights in Dutch waters. Investigators are working on the theory that Manohar’s family may have planned the recent horrific attacks in retaliation of and to avenge his death.

In fact, the man’s son was hauled in for questioning in Suriname, while his brother is among the three in custody here.

Currently, law enforcement in Suriname have a total of 15 persons in cus-

Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

tody, among whom are two alleged suspects – “Crackhead” and “Dick” – who were identified by survivors as two of sea bandits, all Guyanese, who attacked the fishermen on the high seas in Surinamese waters on April 27 last, during which 20 crew members were chopped and tossed overboard. Thus far, there have been five survivors and three bodies recovered while 12 fishermen are still missing.

Law enforcements have confirmed that the second attack just days later, which saw a boat captain killed and his crew missing, is also believed to be linked to the first incident.

A few days after those attacks, fishermen in Surinamese waters captured “Crackhead” at Commewijne and after a sound thrashing, he was handed over to Police. The reports from the neighbouring country say that the suspect allegedly confessed to Dutch investigators that he was involved in the at-

tack which was carried out based on instructions from someone.

During Wednesday’s press briefing, Minister Ramjattan said as Guyana’s and Suriname’s law enforcement agencies continue to collaboration to get to

the root cause of what described as a “major disaster, catastrophe and massacre”, and to also get justice for the victims, the Guyana Police Force has requested the case file from its Dutch counterparts.

Meanwhile, the Public Security Minister noted that the Surinamese authorities have indicated that the bodies of those three fishermen that were recovered will only be handed over to relatives after DNA testings are conducted to ascertain their identities.

While Suriname has the facilities to conduct these tests, the Guyanese officials were told that this process would take some time.

On the other hand, fishermen in the neighbouring country have since docked their boats out of fear of recent events. Some of the

fisherfolks including the survivors have complained bitterly about the treatment at the hands of the Dutch authorities, saying that no proper measures are in place to protect fishermen, who are mostly Guyanese, while out at sea.

But Ramjattan said at the press conference on Wednesday that the Surinamese Ministers whom he met during his visit have assured the immediate implementation of regulations to better secure the fishing industry there.

These include setting up checkpoints to get detailed information about vessels and crews going out to sea and put monitoring system in place such as transmission systems in the fishing boats so that they can make quick contact with those on the mainland.

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Fish shop fire

Owner’s reputed wife charged for torching business

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lexio Keizer, the reputed wife of the owner of the White Castle Fish Shop, who allegedly torched the hangout spot on April 14, 2018, causing the inside of the building to be destroyed was on Wednesday charged.

Keizer, 30, a manager, denied that she committed the act at the John and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown building, which is owned by Krishnandra Beharry, a pensioner of Camp Street, North Cummingsburg.

Reports are some $8.8 million was lost in the fire.

Keizer, along with Jermaine Langevine, her reputed husband, are owners of the fish shop.

On Wednesday, Keizer appeared before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore who granted her bail in the

sum of $250,000. She is scheduled to make her second court appearance on May 30.

Reports are on the day of the fire, Keizer and Langevine had an argument over his whereabouts which reportedly led to her becoming enraged.

Langevine claimed in media reports that his common-law wife reportedly asked several employees to purchase gasoline for her.

After asking them (the employees) to leave for the day, Keizer reportedly torched the business establishment. Langevine disclosed that when he arrived on the scene at about 04:00h, the inside of the lower flat was already destroyed.

Keizer was later arrested and charged with the offence.

Alleged car thief remanded

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Tucville, Georgetown resident, who was earlier this week reportedly found with a stolen car parked in front of his home, was taken before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Kevin Jordan, 29, of Perry Street, Tucville, denied that he received the stolen silver Toyota Allion motor vehicle valued $2.2 million on May 5, 2018, from Vladimir David.

He told Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan that he was unaware that the car was stolen. He disclosed that a friend parked the said vehicle in front of his property.

Jordan relayed that he

even took Police to the same friend’s residence however he was not found at home when they went there. He was nonetheless remanded to prison. The case will continue on May 11.

EBD man charged for hijacking …VC says he mistook them for churchgoers

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n alleged bandit, who was neatly dressed when he robbed a man of his motor car, was on Wednesday remanded to prison by Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

Edwin Angus, 28, of Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) denied that on March 14, 2018 at Princes Street, Georgetown, while being in the company of others and being armed with a firearm, he robbed Anthony Pickett of his silver Toyota Allion motor car, a cellular phone and cash; a total value

Edwin Angus being escorted from court

of $2.2 million.

In court on Wednesday, the Virtual Complainant (VC)

said the men, who are known to him, were all decently dressed, as if they were go-

ing to church, when they cornered him and robbed him.

However, Angus was adamant that he did not commit the act, telling the Court “I know this man my whole life. I grow up in front of he, I would never trouble this man thing… I was at home when this thing happened.” Police Prosecutor Simone Payne objected to bail being granted based on the prevalence of the offence, noting that the 28-year-old used a gun during the commission of the robbery. Magistrate Azore denied bail. The case will continue on May 30.

NIS fraudster slapped with forgery charges

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avid Alli, the man who fraudulently provided false information on

a cheque given to him by the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) was on Wednesday

slapped with two charges for the offence. The 45-year-old Surinamese man, who cur-

rently resides at Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD), denied that between February 13, 2018 and May 7, 2018 at Georgetown, he forged one NIS voucher #18240014 dated May 7, valued $9695 in favour of himself purporting to show that same was valued $90,695 knowing same to be false.

The prosecution is contenting that on May 7, 2018 while at Brickdam, Georgetown, with intent to defraud, Alli uttered to Saskia George the same forged NIS voucher knowing same to be false. He also denied he committed that offence.

On Wednesday, Alli told the court that he does not have any money in Guyana to maintain himself. Despite denying the offence, he apologised for committing the act and begged for forgiveness.

Police Prosecutor Simone Payne had no objections to bail being granted, however, Alli indicated to Magistrate Fabayo Azore that he cannot afford bail as he has no family living in Guyana.

Magistrate Azore granted him bail in the sum of $25,000 for each of the two charges.

The case will continue on May 16.

Bile and spite…

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…against PPP in handcuffing he handcuffing of Ashni Singh and Winston Brassington after they arrived in court to answer the SOCU charge of “misconduct in public officials” demonstrates more than any other act up to now, that justice is furthest in the minds of this PNC-led Government. There’s already been much comment from impartial commentators about the Government scraping the barrel for that arcane common law charge to drag the two former PPP Government officials into the courts – and now THIS!!

Way back in 1769, Blackstone enunciated the rule on shackling in court: the accused “must be brought before the bar without irons, or any manner of shackles or bonds; unless there be evident danger of an escape.” And that’s been the rule in civilised jurisdictions ever since and was ratified as recently as 1988 in R vs Vratsides.

The US Supreme Court’s taken the firmest stand against handcuffing accused persons in the docks – for the very same reason as the common law: it violated their presumption of innocence and due process!! There’s a difference between “convicted” and “accused” that’s at the foundation of liberty.

The rules are very clear that in a Magistrate’s court, the decision to handcuff isn’t one for the Police to make – only the Magistrate so decide whether the accused poses a danger to anyone in the court or – even if other measures are taken such as the posting of Policemen at strategic points – he remains a flight risk. But the officials all know this – they’ve been around the (legal) block and then some. This is pure and simple bile and spite against the PPP. Singh and Brassington are just the convenient proxies in the PNC’s second prong of their pincer movement to destroy the PPP as a credible force. The first movement was firing 5700 sugar workers from GuySuCo and making redundant another 2000 from private cane farmers in their unilateral closure of four sugar estates. The PNC’s always bristled at the loyalty of sugar workers to the PPP – since they represented the loyalty of the masses.

Singh and Brassington’s persecution – and it’s a “persecution” and NOT a “prosecution” - is supposed to be an object lesson to the young professionals who’ve supported the PPP. The PNC means to show them their future will be destroyed and their reputations dragged into the mud, through the courts. In the end, it won’t matter whether they’re convicted or not: the message will already have been sent.

Supporters of the PPP in the lower strata will be left jobless to starve while those in the middle and top tier will be dragged in the mud in chains.

But after the PPP – it’ll be their own supporters. …against contributions Veteran human-resources expert, Nowrang Persaud, who enlightens the nation via his letters with his observations on matters Guyanese, made a pertinent observation recently about President Granger’s speech at the 180th Indian arrival event: “The speech included in some detail, the involvement of Indo-Guyanese immigrants in all aspects of manual, physical and structural activities. However, there was a patently noticeable exclusion of their significant involvement and contribution to the equally if not more important mental/ intellectual/scientific/managerial and investment aspects of Guyana’s development.”

The “big question (of course) is why?” For the answer, one has to only look at the PNC’s actions in their first iteration under Burnham – Granger’s template as the present PNC leader and President. The civil service had already been dominated by non-Indians, so Burnham merely ensured the few Indians were sycophants. Ditto for the officer corps of the exponentially expanded Disciplined Forces and the managers of the 80 per cent nationalised economy. Indian-Guyanese, then and now, are to be the “haulers of water and hewers of wood”.

Why mention those to be made redundant?

…in Chronic The Chronic’s gleeful report goes even beyond the PNC’s bile: “Handcuffed and escorted under Police guard, Singh and Brassington had only a few hours arrived in Guyana from overseas, when they were dragged before the court.”

Handcuffed and dragged!!

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

9 PPP criticises Govt’s response to pirate attacks News

thursDAY, may 10, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– accuses Surinamese Police of ignoring reports

ever tools are available to them to protect Guyanese citizens no matter where they are.

Fifteen fishermen are

One of the four fishing boats that sunk during the first pirate attack

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he parliamentary Opposition has strongly criticised Government's handling of the massacre of Guyanese fishermen in Suriname, claiming that the Administration dropped the ball on the issue.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo described the attack as an act of terrorism that will have far-reaching effects, not only on the people it was perpetrated on but their families as well.

He alluded to an ulterior motive to the attack on the boat, besides stealing.

He noted that from conversations with relatives, the purpose was to kill.

The Opposition Leader told a media conference on Wednesday that President David Granger’s description of the incident as a massacre was not enough.

According to him, he expected that security agencies would have treated the matter with some level of urgency and priority, but that did not happen.

“He (President) used the occasion to score political points. He said we (Government) have been successful in curbing piracy over the past three years… If the President had visited the community… in just one meeting, when I totalled the number of times they were hijacked in the last two years, it’s nine times.”

The former Head of State said this points to the President being out of touch with reality, as 95 per cent of the fishing in Suriname is done

by Guyanese. According to Jagdeo, had it not been for the media, Guyanese would have known little about the magnitude of this problem at hand.

He pointed to the fact that Government took eight days to inform the Surinamese authority that the Guyanese counterparts will be cooperating fully. Jagdeo said that could have been done with a phone call or using the Internet the very next day to advance cooperation on the issue.

In addition, he noted that relatives’ attempts to contact Government were at times rebuffed.

He described Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan’s account of his visit as disingenuous, explaining that aerial searches for the missing fishermen were done by private individuals and not the Surinamese authorities. “A lot of what he (Ramjattan) praised the Surinamese for did not take place,” Jagdeo asserted.

Jagdeo, who recently returned from Suriname after meeting with relatives of the missing men and many Guyanese living in Suriname, said the piracy attacks in Suriname waters against Guyanese fishermen are not remote cases. In fact, he claimed that based on discussions with Guyanese, Surinamese Police have frequently disregarded reports because the victims making these reports are Guyanese.

He also spoke of some of the struggles being faced by the fishermen and promised to raise the matter in the National Assembly. He said the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) would on Friday push for a motion to be heard in Parliament in order to ascertain what Government is doing about the situation.

“We would like to find out what he (Ramjattan) is doing with the Surinamese authority… since numerous Guyanese reported openly during the meetings there have been several cases when they have gone to report cases of hijacking, no attention is being paid to them… because they are Guyanese,” he said.

Guyanese leading fishing industry But Jagdeo again argued that the Surinamese fishing industry is made up of mostly Guyanese, who according to him, are legal and pay taxes. Therefore, they deserve the same treatment as Surinamese.

The questions to be brought to Parliament include information on exactly what is being done on both sides, in terms of investigations and security for fishermen expected to go back to sea.

Questions would also

be brought about what the Government would be doing about Police Officers who do not act on complaints of hijackings. He noted that while some may have information, they are afraid to come forward.

The Opposition Leader also noted the importance of Government using what-

still missing. Three bodies have been recovered and five people have survived the attacks. Surinamese law enforcement has ar-

rested the main suspect in the recent deadly pirate attacks. The Police have confirmed that a total of 13 persons are in custody.

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D’Urban Street killing

LGE talks

AFC presses APNU for more influence Accused admits to arguing with wife prior to death

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he A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) have officially met to commence discussions on reaching an agreement to contest the upcoming Local Government Elections which are slated for November this year.

The meeting took place on Monday afternoon following the insistence of the AFC and the dispatch of several pieces of legislation between the two coalition partners.

An AFC executive, who spoke with Guyana Times briefly on Tuesday evening said the discussions went well between the two sides and more meetings are scheduled to take place to work out the various agenda items, which require in depth analysis and full agreement.

“We had an agreement the last time there was the hosting of Local Government Elections. While we were

satisfied with some of the arrangements in place, I think we were concerned about some of the candidates and the allotment of seats in various areas. We were also concerned about the post electoral arrangement and the quality of the candidates that were fielded,” the executive said briefly.

The AFC executive declined to say where the meeting actually took place or who were some of the persons present at the initial discourse.

“I think we agreed to keep all of those kinds of information confidential until we are at an advanced stage of discussions… so I will not divulge any information about what was actually discussed during that first encounter”, the executive said.

Efforts to contact APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon and AFC General Secretary Marlon Williams for a comment proved futile but the Government’s Department of Public

Information did confirm that the meeting took place.

Meanwhile, Guyana Times was reliably informed that the AFC is intent on demanding an equal number of candidates to the APNU for the upcoming polls. The party also wants to have more members on the joint slate contesting key areas in Georgetown, with the aim in the end of having the mayorship of the Capital City rotated based on a formal agreement.

The talks between the AFC and APNU come on the heels of the first partner issuing an ultimatum last week to discuss several key issues before a formal decision by the AFC to coalesce for the polls.

On May 1, 2018, the AFC gave President David Granger 14 days for the meeting to take place after its executives raised concerns about neglect, disrespect and unfair treatment

by APNU.

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nthony Morrison, the man who was accused of murdering his common-law wife, Donna Thomas between May 25 and 26 2012, is expected to soon know his fate as the defence and prosecution concluded their closing arguments on Wednesday.

On Monday, a 12-member jury was empanelled at the Demerara High Court before Justice Sandhill Kissoon to hear the retrial of Morrison’s case.

At Wednesday’s hearing, the accused led his own defence via an unsworn statement from the prisoner’s dock, which meant that he could not be questioned, or cross-examined. He however told the 12-member jury that on May 25, 2012, Donna woke him up and told him she was going out sometime in the day. He however admitted that sometime before she left, they argued.

Morrison further informed the jury that sometime after 16:00h, he left home to go to the market and when he supposedly returned the following morning, he heard about the woman’s murder. The accused man did not call any witnesses in his defence.

The State is being represented by Prosecutors Lisa Cave and Mandell Moore while Attorney Maxwell McKay is defending Morrison.

Donna Thomas’ body was found in a pool of blood with several stab wounds at the Lot 65 Cross and D’Urban Streets, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown apartment she shared with Morrison.

Government Pathologist, Dr Nehaul Singh had given the cause of Thomas’ death as asphyxiation due to compression to the neck, compounded by blunt force trauma to the head.

According to Dr Singh, the deceased had 16 incised wounds to one hand, while the other hand had six.

Anthony Morrison

These, he said, were considered to be defensive wounds, which were not fatal but contributed to significant bleeding. Thomas died as a result of being deprived of oxygen and the heart stopping, Singh had explained.

The matter is scheduled for 10:00h today when Justice Kissoon is expected to sum up the case. After this, the matter will be put to the jury which will deliberate for at least two hours and make a determination of innocence or guilt.

Mechanic slapped with robbery charge

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20-year-old mechanic, who allegedly attacked and robbed a man of a quantity of items, was on Tuesday afternoon remanded to prison after he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Roy Gilbert of Tucville Squatting area, Georgetown, stood before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied that he committed the act.

He denied that on April 20, 2018, at Toucan Drive, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown while being

armed with a gun, he robbed Malachi Richards of the items valued approximately $166,000.

It was reported to the court by Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield that the defendant was not arrested with the items in his possession.

However, he objected to bail based on the prevalence of the offence and the fact that a firearm was used.

As such, Gilbert was remanded to prison to return to court on May 16.

North Ruimveldt man acquitted of teen rape charge

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saun Abrahams, of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was on Wednesday freed on one count of sexual activity with a 14-year-old boy, who said that the 38-year-old man had sex with him at the National Park, Georgetown between June 21 and June 22, 2015.

Abrahams, who worked as a liaison officer at the Public Health Ministry at the time he was charged, has always maintained that he was innocent.

He was sobbing uncontrollably from the prisoner’s dock when the jury foreman announced the 10-2 verdict in favour of not guilty.

However, presiding judge, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow informed the alleged rapist that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) would determine if he would face another trial following the jury being unable to decide on a second count.

The second charge stated

Esaun Abrahams

that the defendant engaged in sexual penetration with the teen between July 1 and July 25, 2015 in the county of Demerara. Guyana Times understands that the lad’s testimony was heard by the jury just a few days ago.

The defendant was represented by Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes while State Counsel Tiffini Lyken prosecuted the case.

11 THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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5 Reasons why women love getting flowers

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elebrating Mother's Day is all about showering the woman who does it all with love, gratitude, and thanks. While most celebrate by cooking an elaborate brunch, spending the day together, or presenting Mom with gifts, there's another way to show her how much you care.This year, give a present that Mom can benefit from on more than just Mother's Day. Wrap up the gift of convenience, reliability, and trust in everyday solutions with one of the many kitchen appliances available.

THE BASICS

Slow Cooker A slow cooker is an invaluable tool for home cooks with any skill level. Although they were

chicken. Make Mom’s life a lot easier by getting her the slow cooker that will give her more time to move in between tasks.

Some advice: invest in something great from the get-go, because you’ll end up there anyway.

Food Processor

of most of the slicing and dicing you’ll ever need to do. Some come with blades for different cuts, like thin slices or mincing, so no need for a mandolin which can be a bit risky to use.

They’re also great for emulsifying salad dressings and dips, and many are even able to knead bread dough. They can also be used to shred cheese!

Hand or Standing Mixer

originally created for cooking beans, they’re now a favourite for getting dinner prep out of the way in the morning so you can have a hot meal ready for supper time.

There are few things better than coming home after a long day of work to a meal ready and waiting for you. Slow cookers can be used for everything from soup to roasting a whole

S

A good food processor can be such a timesaver and it’s very adaptable in the tasks that it can perform. Don’t have great knife skills?

That’s okay, a food processor can take care

5 reasons why women love getting flowers

ome women like the more expensive gifts that shine; it shows that their guy thinks they are worth a lot. Others prefer the exotic trips to the islands; it shows that their man wants to experience life with them.

But you will never find a woman who does not like receiving flowers…

We like that they are “pointless” Some say flowers are pointless because they eventually wither and die.

But it is because of that same fact we think they are not. They do not have to last forever to mean forever to us.

We think that they reflect who we are The type of flower you choose reflects how you view the recipient, and shows them how much they mean to you. A bouquet of pink roses means you think she is sweet, b u b b l y, and soft.

A bunch of daisies means you think she is full of life and you remind her of sunshine. A single red rose means you think she is the only love for you.

We like how they stop time for a moment When we receive flowers, the world seems to fade away and we focus on just those flowers for a moment.

It shows us someone thought

of us and for that we feel cherished.

We like remembering how we received them Flowers are a powerful gift. Though the physical thing dies away, the memory is strong. Every time we see the flower again, go into a flower shop or smell the scent, we remember. We remember when we got it, how it made us felt, and who we got it from.

We like that you took the time to do something special for us That statement says it all.

What else can give you all of that?

Nesha's Flowerland offers the widest variety of flowers for your mother, grandmother, aunt, and any other special woman in your life! Roses are available in 15 different colours, and they have orchids, lilies, gerber daisies and much more!

T h i s M o t h e r ’s Day they are also giving back to you. By just spending $5000 or more you get a free gift compliments of Nesha’s Flowerland. Come on down now to Nesha's Flowerland in the Giftland Mall or at the corner of Church and Carmichael Streets, or call 227-3553 or 225-3315 today.

By giving the gift of a mixer this Mother's Day, you can guarantee a year's worth of homemade

muffins, delicious pies and pizzas and light treats and side dishes. More importantly, you and Mom can spend time baking and cooking together. Depending on her level of expertise in the kitchen, there's a perfect mixer for her.

A good mixer is an essential staple for any home cook, even if your time spent in the kitchen doesn’t include a lot of baking. They’re great for whipping eggs and cream cheese, kneading dough, and mashing potatoes.

You can even shred several chicken breasts with just a few turns rather than 15 minutes doing it by hand!

If you do like to bake, this is a great time to take the plunge and get a standing mixer. It makes stirring cookie dough and kneading bread so much easier with the same amount, if not less, of clean-up.

If you invest in a good one, it’ll last decades. At A Ally and Sons, there is a variety of brands such as Proctor Silex, Oster, Black & Decker, and Hamilton Beach for every mom’s needs.

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thursday, may 10, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

W

hen Mother’s Day arrives, many of us are left scrambling for ideas on what to get the one person who doesn't think twice before giving. A mother's generosity is hard to match, and this could explain why we often end up relying on traditional gifts like flowers and chocolates, despite our best last-ditch efforts.

And it turns out that even on Mother's Day, moms are thinking of others. But if, like last year, you find yourself in a panic and reaching for an old faithful like chocolates or perfume mere moments ahead of Mother's Day

on May 13, there's good news -- you can combine your last-minute tendencies with Mom's desire for a gift that benefits others with our picks below. So go ahead, order those flowers. Just make sure they're eco -- Mom'll love you for it.

Chocolates

Chocolates are a staple for many holidays -- Mother’s Day included. But instead of sticking to typical chocolates, let your mom indulge in a variety box.

Flowers

Flowers don't last but what they symbolize can last an eternity. From carnations to forget-me-nots, make those feelings heartfelt and socially conscious by

ordering a beautiful bouquet.

Books

Finding a gift might be classified as a “world problem,” but this Mother's Day, make light heart and get your mom the gift of a good book.

Gadgets

T h e r e ’ s supposedly never a bad time to invest in an electronic gift/gadget, so why not Mother's Day?

Perfume

For the mothers who like to keep things close to their hearts and well, smell good, the gift of a sultry perfume is always a good idea.

HOMEMADE for the Best MOM Ever

When it comes to giving your mom the perfect gift for Mother's Day, it's the thought that counts. That's why creating a handmade item she'll treasure for years to come is more meaningful than buying an expensive necklace she'll wear once. All of these ideas are sure to put a smile on Mom's face.

Teacup Candle

Combine a vintage cup and saucer with a candle to give your mom something she can look forward to lighting at the end of a long day.

Dipped Wooden Utensils

Why not give her something that will brighten up her kitchen, like these vibrant cooking utensils? Even better: This is a one-anddone DIY.

Polka Dot Mug

If your mom is a coffee drinker, she'll appreciate the thought and time you put into making her a cheerful morning mug.

Lemon Bath Bomb

A special day should end with a relaxing soak in the tub. A glass of wine and candles are nice, but this lovely lemon bath bomb makes it complete.

news

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thursDAY, may 10, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Be innovative; enhance nursing education – Lawrence to Nursing Council

W

hile delivering the charge to the newly installed General Nursing Council of Guyana (GNCG), Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence urged the Councillors to enhance the education of nurses while being innovative to advance and improve the standards of the nursing profession.

“I want you to breathe new life into the Council and don’t take what is there and believe that is the way we have to continue to operate. Make suggestions. Perhaps we need to make some changes to the laws and regulations so that we can be able to move to that level that we all wants to move towards,” Lawrence said.

The Minister said the Ministry’s primary objective is to advance nursing education in Guyana and to ensure that a corps of quality and competent nurses is produced. She added that it is also the right of healthcare workers to enjoy the highest quality of care and be comfortable in their working environment. Lawrence further stated that the Council and the Ministry need to work in unison to ensure they achieve the objective of improving the profession.

She said the theme for International Nurses’ Day, “A voice to lead, health is a human right” presents the opportunity for the Council to push for the

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence and Dr Karen Cummings with members of the newly-installed General Nursing Council of Guyana

nurses to ensure better healthcare delivery. She advised the Council to not only sit and have meetings, but rather they should go into the working environment to see the conditions nurses are working in and what prohibits them from doing their job effectively and efficiently.

“As members of the Council you have to work assiduously to empower our nurses. You have the authority and voice under the law to make sure their needs are met. The nurses come first and must be comfortable, they too are entitled to good health and wellbeing before they can demonstrate care and comfort to our citizens. I am urging you Councillors to listen to their issues and respond with care and compassion as you exercise the functions of your office,” Lawrence said.

Lawrence also called on the Council to take the task of nurses’ registration much more seriously, highlighting that they should be satisfied before any candidate is registered.

“Don’t register any and every person. You analyse and be very careful that those people meet the criteria because if we put garbage in, we will get garbage out, so let us ensure whatever we put our pen to those persons are sound, that they are qualified and that they meet all requirements in order to be registered,” she said.

Additionally, the Minister also urged the newly installed Council to ensure the Hinterland and remote areas are included in the decision-making process.

Meanwhile, GNCG’s Registrar Donette Kellman

said to date, some 2669 persons would have renewed their licence to practice in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Chief Nursing Officer and Chairperson of the newly installed Council, Nurse Linda Johnson, pledged their support towards enhancing the nursing profession. She noted that they plan to remain visible in the execution of their mandate, while retuning Guyana to his former glory and the leader in the nursing profession.

The Council came into being

on March 26, 1954, with a view to have a body of members from the registered nurse category to look into practice of nursing in then British Guiana. The Council comprises of 15 members with six being nominated by the Public Health Minister and eight others appointed following an election process. The Chief Nursing Officer is appointed as the chairperson of the Council and the life of the Council spans three years.

The Nursing Council is re-

sponsible for conducting examinations for registration of nurses, midwives and nursing assistants; establishing and improving education standards and practices; maintaining a professional register; conducting hearings to determine whether practitioners should be removed from the register because of misconduct or illness; and prosecuting those who falsely claim to be qualified nurses, midwives or nursing assistants.

Gas station robbery

Taxi driver identifies accomplices …Police recovers $370,000 of $5M booty from suspect’s mom

T

he suspect who was arrested in connection with a robbery carried out on a Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara businesswoman on Monday last has reportedly confessed to the crime, and has also implicated two other men who are now being hunted by police.

According to information received, the perpetrator in custody has been identified as Agustus Primo, 33, a taxi driver of Lot 2-4 Supply, East Bank Demerara.

The Guyana Times was told that following his interrogation, named his accomplices as Mark Anthony George and

Agustus Primo Shane Morgan who are currently on the run.

Primo further said that he received only a portion of the money, and has already man-

aged to spend some. As such, he only turned over the remainder, which is said to be in excess of $289,000.

The captured bandit told Police that he took some of the money –which was given to him by Mark Anthony George- to Shane Morgan’s mother who resides in Morcut Square, East La Penitence, Georgetown.

As such, the 56-year-old woman was also contacted by police and interrogated.

She has since admitted that she did receive a sum of money, and handed over some $370,000 to investigators.

Turn to page 16

16 news

thursDAY, may 10, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

New tobacco regulations India’s State Minister on outreach programme in Guyana DEMTOCO, Health Minister …to “deepen” relations to meet today

P

India’s State Minister Satya Pal Singh addressing a Diaspora gathering during a welcome reception at the Pegasus Hotel on Tuesday evening

I

n efforts to build stronger relationships with leaders and the Diaspora, India’s Minister of State for Human Resources Development, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Dr Satya Pal Singh, is currently on a four-day special outreach to Guyana.

This is an initiative of the Indian Government, which aims to have a Government Minister visit all the countries that are covered by the more than 185 Indian Missions/Consulates around the world before the end of this year to discuss issues of interest regarding bilateral and multilateral development. The Minister is accompanied by his wife.

During the visit, which spans May 8 to 11, Minister Singh will be meeting with key Government and Opposition officials as well as members of the Indian Diaspora here in Guyana.

A welcome reception was held on Tuesday evening at the Pegasus Hotel, where a meet-and-greet platform was created for the Minister to interact with the Diaspora, including Indian expatriates.

Addressing the gathering at the reception, Minister Singh said that India was impressed with the success

of its Diaspora across the world.

The Indian State Minister went on to reflect on the lives of the indentured labourers – most of whom he noted came from his home state of Uttar Pradesh – saying that despite the difficulties and hardships faced, they managed to work and make their adopted land a better place for future generations.

“The Indian Diaspora in Guyana now is the third or fourth generation of Indians who should be certainly proud of the modern Guyana, which their fore-parents have created along with their African descendants and others. The Government of India is certainly proud of you for your achievements in all fields, including business, politics, art, culture, sport, etc,” he stated.

According to Minister Singh, this year will be a special year in the history of diplomatic relations between India and Guyana, which already enjoy excellent relations in both the bilateral and multilateral arenas. He specifically mentioned President David Granger’s visit to India back in March and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending visit to Guyana later this year.

Taxi driver identifies...

On Monday, the businesswoman was on her way to the bank when she was relieved of $5 million on the East Bank of Demerara. The woman co-owns a gas station located at the Soesdyke Junction, East Bank Demerara, left her home with the cash, in the company of a staff.

She reportedly made a stop on the Land of Canaan public road to deliver an in-

voice to another business, and it was while she was about to enter her motor car to continue her journey that she was pounced on by one of two armed men.

The bandit allegedly held her at gunpoint before grabbing the bag of money from inside her car. He then ran over to a waiting CG series motorcycle, and handed the bag of money to his pillion rider before they both fled

“I’m sure that this outreach visit, which is a ministerial visit from India to Guyana after 23 years will be significant as it will help in broadening and deepening the bilateral relations in various fields, as well as enhance cooperation between India and Guyana, particularly in Guyana’s pursuit to become a complete “Green Economy” by 2025,” the Indian Minister posited.

Meanwhile, these sentiments were also expressed by Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam, who spoke of the enrichment of cooperation between the two countries in the bilateral and multilateral fields.

Minister Singh kicked off his four-day visit on Tuesday with a cordial visit to Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman.

On Wednesday, he also met President Granger as well as Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson.

The Minister is also scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Vice President and Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, before wrapping up his four-day visit on Friday.

From page 15

the scene.

The businesswoman, being affiliated with ranks of the Guyana Police Force, immediately reported the matter. This resulted in the apprehension of the man who held her at gunpoint, shortly after.

However, the pillion rider-who had the cash in his possession- managed to escape into the bushes along the public road.

ublic Health Minister Volda Lawrence on Wednesday revealed a meeting between the Demerara Tobacco Company (DEMTOCO) and her Ministry is scheduled for today to discuss the new regulations expected to come out of the new Tobacco Control Act. “They did request to meet with me and I had since written to them and asked for them to send their agenda items and that meeting is set for tomorrow (today) at nine am. Most of the things (on the agenda) were like when the Act comes into being, like how much time they will have to make their change over. Also, what would be the time line in terms of the display, how they can display their products in the supermarkets and shops… not anything heavy. But most of those things are catered for in the Act or will be catered for in the regulations,” Lawrence said in a comment to the media.

DEMTOCO’s Managing Director, Maurlain Kirton, had earlier said that the meeting with the Minister is to address some of the issues they have as it relates to the legislation.

“There are six key areas which concern us; one of which is the ban on vending or in trays, the issue of the ban on 10s, the issue on the ban on sponsorship and promotion, the issue of the ban on corporate branding be-

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence

cause the legislation extends itself beyond product branding but our corporate brand that has been around for 84 years is also threatened,” she had noted.

The Managing Director said the intention of that meeting is to ensure that DEMTOCO continues to exist and adapt to the legislation but stressed the need for enforcement.

In response to those, the issues of adaptability and the future of the DEMTOCO, and by extension the industry, the Minister noted that it is the right of every Government to protect its people and that is what they are embarking on.

The Tobacco Control Act became law back in August 2017 after passage by the National Assembly and

DEMTOCO’s Managing Director, Maurlain Kirton

subsequent assent by the President.

DEMTOCO’s Chairman, Marcus Steele, at the Company’s Annual General Meeting said 2017 was a challenging year for the company due to a number of factors, inclusive of volatility in the foreign exchange market, which affected foreign currency transactions and the performance of the company. Steele had explained that 2017 represented a fundamental change in the local regulatory landscape of the tobacco industry with the passage and promulgation of the Tobacco Control Act. He noted that while the measures under the Tobacco Control Act will come into effect later in 2018, they have already begun experiencing some market fluctuations.

Exhibition opened for 73rd anniversary of victory over fascism

Some of the photos being featured

O

n the occasion of the 73rd anniversary since the victory over fascism in World War II, a photographic exhibition was launched on Wednesday by the Russian Embassy to commemorate this milestone.

The exhibition, which is being hosted at the National Museum, was opened to the public by the Russian Ambassador to Guyana, Alexander Kurmaz and other members of the diplomatic corp.

During his brief remarks, the Russian ambassador stated, “As every year, our people render homage to the efforts of all those who

provided support to be part of the peoples of the Soviet Union. You may know from history that 27 million of the Soviet citizens paid with their blood, lives and health for the victory.”

Kurmaz also explained that the victory over fascism should be celebrated by all since it was the basis on which the world has revolutionised and also the reason why so many lives were saved after the war.

“These years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union were all stressed that my country is not privatising the victory. It is the victory of the human kind.”

All are invited to partic-

ipate in the viewing of the pictures, which depict every stage of the struggles which were faced for fascism to be abolished, from the preparations for World War II to the celebration which arose from the victory in Moscow, Russia.

During the war, the soviets were the first to reach the German capital of Berlin, which caused Germany to surrender in May of 1945, shortly after the suicide of Adolf Hitler. As a result of this, they attained victory over fascism which ceased the suffering of all.

The exhibition is expected to last for three days and will conclude on Saturday.

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

Malaysia’s Opposition pulls Europe urges Trinidad and Tobago to abolish off shocking election win death penalty

A

n Opposition alliance led

by Malaysia’s former ruler Mahathir Mohamad has won a majority in Parliament – a shock victory that ends the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition’s 60-year grip on power.

The Election Commission said on Thursday the Opposition has so far won 112 seats and the BN has 76 in the 222-member Parliament. The election race was one of the most closely contested in Malaysia’s history, with 92-year-old Mahathir coming out of retirement to take on his former protégé, Prime Minister Najib Razak, who has been embroiled in a massive corruption scandal.

Mahahtir said he will be sworn in as Malaysia’s leader later on Thursday, becoming the oldest Prime Minister in the world. As the Pakaran Harapan or Alliance of Hope’s win became clear, supporters took to the streets of Malaysia’s biggest city, Kuala Lumpur, waving flags of the Opposition.

Al Jazeera’s Rob Mcbride, reporting from Kuala Lumpur, said the mood at

E

Former Malaysian Prime Minister and Opposition Candidate Mahathir Mohamad celebrates with his coalition leaders during a press conference in Kuala Lumpur (France24)

a public gathering in the city turned to “euphoria” as “news began to sink in about what was happening”.

A simple majority of 112 seats is required by a party or alliance to rule, a number Mahathir said his Pakatan Harapan, or Alliance of Hope, secured to defeat Najib’s ruling coalition

Barisan Nasional. Asked if he would take action against Najib over the financial scandal, Mahathir said he will not seek “revenge”.

“We are seeking to restore the rule of law,” Mahathir told reporters early Thursday. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

urope on Tuesday urged Trinidad and Tobago to follow other Commonwealth Caribbean countries and do away with a mandatory death penalty.

“We don’t think that’s the right answer. That’s not for us to tell you what to do. It’s your country and you can run it as you wish. And we can well understand the public pressures there may be, the political pressures there may be, people calling in, in the face of crime, for the death penalty to be carried out,” the United Kingdom Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Tim Stew, told a news conference.

Flanked by his counterparts from France,

Spain, the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Germany, the British diplomat said “we don’t think it is effective.

The European Union Delegation to Trinidad and Tobago said it does not believe the death penalty is an effective deterrent to crime and expressed concerns about the country’s high crime rate, gang and drug activity and the significant number of guns on the nation’s streets.

The diplomats shared their views on a number of issues, including human rights, trade with Trinidad and Tobago, climate change, culture and its role in the world. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Attackers hit Afghan capital Iran nuclear deal not dead Kabul with bombs, bullets despite Trump move, France says

F

Left: A foreign soldier takes position during an attack and gun fire in Kabul, Afghanistan May 9, 2018.

Right: Afghan security forces arrive at the site of the attack

G

unmen mounted coordinated attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul on Wednesday, battling security forces for hours in the city’s main commercial area after three large explosions sent plumes of smoke and dust into the sky.

At least seven people were killed, including two police, and 17 were wounded in the incident, health officials said. It was the latest in a string of attacks that have caused hundreds of casualties in Kabul since the beginning of the year.

As evening fell, Police spokesman Hashmat

Stanekzai said special forces had killed the final gunmen resisting and specialists were investigating the site.

The Taliban’s main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attack, which came around half an hour after an apparently separate incident in the west of the city.

Shortly before the twin explosions in Shar-e Naw, a suicide bomber blew himself up near a Police station in the western Kabul district of Dasht-e Barchi and gunmen followed up, fighting security forces for several hours. Part of the Police sta-

tion was burnt down by the attackers who were throwing hand-grenades. A wouldbe suicide bomber was also gunned down before he could reach his target nearby.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for that attack but many officials doubt the group has the capacity to mount such complex attacks. A senior Afghan security official said intelligence services believe the Haqqani network, a militant group affiliated to the Taliban which has a long record of urban attacks, was the real organiser of the attack. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Americans freed by North Korea before Trump-Kim summit head home

N

orth Korea released three American prisoners and handed them over to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday, clearing a major obstacle to an unprecedented summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The men, who were freed after Pompeo met Kim, were on the way home from Pyongyang on the chief US diplomat’s plane. The President planned to greet them when they landed at

Andrews Air Force Base outside Washington at around 02:00h this morning.

The release, which was praised by the White House as a “gesture of goodwill,” appeared to signal an effort by Kim to set a more favourable tone for the summit and followed his recent pledge to suspend missile tests and shut a North Korean nuclear bomb test site.

While Kim is giving up the last of his American detainees, whom North Korea has often used as bargain-

ing chips with the United States, their return could also be aimed at pressuring Trump to make concessions of his own as he tries to get Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear arsenal, something it has not signalled a willingness to do.

The release gave Trump a chance to tout a diplomatic achievement just a day after his decision to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal drew heavy criticism from European allies and others. (Excerpt from Reuters)

rance’s Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian says the Iranian nuclear deal is “not dead” despite US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw. The 2015 agreement curbed Iran’s nuclear activities in return for the lifting of sanctions that had been imposed by the UN, US and EU. But Trump argued that the deal was “defective at its core”, saying he would pull out and re-impose sanctions.

Other signatories to the nuclear accord say they remain committed to it.

The deal was agreed between Iran and the five permanent members of the

UN Security Council – the US, UK, France, China and Russia – plus Germany. It was struck under Trump’s predecessor, Barack Obama.

Iran said it would try to salvage the agreement, but would restart uranium enrichment if it could not.

In a statement, President Hassan Rouhani said: “If we achieve the deal’s goals in co-operation with other members of the deal, it will remain in place.”

But the country’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was sceptical, saying he did not trust Britain, France or Germany, and would need “guarantees” before continuing the

nuclear deal.

In his address on Tuesday, President Trump called the nuclear accord - or Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as it is formally known – a “horrible, one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made”.

The JCPOA saw Iran agree to limit the size of its stockpile of enriched uranium – which is used to make reactor fuel, but also nuclear weapons – for 15 years and the number of centrifuges installed to enrich uranium for 10 years. Iran also agreed to modify a heavy water facility so it could not produce plutonium suitable for a bomb. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Indian pair arrested after using ‘space suits’ to con investor out of US$200,000

I

ndian Police have arrested a father and son who used fake space suits to convince a businessman to hand over more than US$200,000 (nearly £150,000).

New Delhi Police released pictures and video of the two accused wearing the silver suits after they were apprehended over claims they could sell magical copper plates to NASA. Already on bail accused of selling snakes with “medicinal qualities” for more than US$25,000 each, the pair told potential victims they were developing a device that could be used to generate “electricity from thunderbolts”.

They promised it would be sold to NASA and India’s space agency for hundreds of millions of dollars, Police said.

Police said that in addi-

Indian officials stand alongside two men dressed in ‘space suits’ who were arrested for alleged fraud

tion to the New Delhi businessman, the father and son may have conned money out of up to 30 people across northern India. Their fake device was apparently based on rare copper “that had been struck by a thunderbolt” so that it could magnetise rice, Police explained.

A copper plate covered in a thin magnetic liquid and

rice mixed with iron filings were used to show off the machine.

The pair, who employed actors to wear radiation suits and staged fake tests, had said they needed money to develop the invention, detectives said. It is not known how much the other victims paid. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, May 10, 2018

ARCHIE

Don’t get angry when you should get moving. It’s up to (March 21- you to take care of your responApril 19) sibilities and to protect your position and reputation. Finish what you start.

ARIES

Gather as much informaTAURUS tion as possible. Knowledge is (April 20- power, and being able to use May 20) what you learn to your advantage will bring you closer to the success and respect you deserve.

dilbert

Get your facts straight beGEMINI fore you voice your opinion.

(May 21An emotional situation will esJune 20)

calate if you let someone from your past interfere in your personal life. Truth matters.

Share your insight and offer

CANCER suggestions. Getting involved (June 21- in activities or events that will July 22) expand your association with

Peanuts

people sharing your beliefs or heading down a similar path will be advantageous.

Observation will help you LEO get to know and understand (July 23- your peers better. Discovering Aug. 22) what others have to offer will put you in a good position. An unexpected change is heading your way.

Calvin and Hobbes

Travel, conferences, trade VIRGO shows and communications are (Aug. 23- all favoured. Let your intuition Sept. 22) guide you when dealing with peers or people you can learn something from. Someone you least expect will disappoint you.

Domestic problems will surLIBRA (Sept. 23- face. Added responsibilities will get to you, and criticism and deOct. 23) mands will lead to a dispute.

Take a break, relax and focus on personal growth.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — TRIMARAN (TRIMARAN: TRY-muh-ran: A fast sailboat with three parallel hulls.)

Can you find 25 or more words in TRIMARAN? The list will be published tomorrow.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY’S WORD — BODYSURF drub your yours sorb sour surd surf

rosy ruby ford four fury

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

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

and give you plenty to think about. Be open to trying something new.

A change will do you SAGITTARIUS good.

Make plans with a (Nov. 23good friend or get together Dec. 21) with colleagues to talk shop.

Networking and focusing on getting ahead is encouraged.

Average mark 16 words Time limit 35 minutes

body buoy bury busy ours dory dour

Sign up for something arSCORPIO tistic, unusual or entertaining.

(Oct. 24The diversion will do you good Nov. 22)

Apply your skills to accommodate new trends or look for diverse ways to use your services and attributes. Offering something unique will drum up interest and opportunity.

solution AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Don’t let anyone talk you into taking on too much or coax you into doing something that is not good for you.

Bad habits will be difficult to break.

Use your imagination when it comes to money matters. An opportunity to invest in something unique will result in personal gains and growth.

Someone close to you will be evasive or disappoint you.

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

19

Kishan powers Mumbai

into IPL's top four

Rohit Sharma congratulates Ishan Kishan on his 17-ball 50

I

t's now 1127 days since K o l k a t a Knight Riders have not beaten Mumbai Indians, and that streak is set to continue after the visitors destroyed their opponents by 102 runs at the Eden Gardens.

Mumbai rode on the back of Ishan Kishan's blazing half-century before their bowlers applied an age-old tactic of bowling short to KKR and slowly dismembered their opponent's batting line-up.

Chasing 210, KKR were all out for 108, their lowest total at the Eden Gardens as Mumbai completed their second-largest victory (by runs) in IPL history. It was the third year in a row that Mumbai completed the league-double over KKR, but more importantly, victory propelled Mumbai to the top-half of the points table for the first time this season. KKR, on the other hand, dropped to fifth.

He walked in during the first time-out, with Mumbai only 62 for 2 in nine overs.

But a six and three fours off Kuldeep Yadav and Piyush Chawla set the tone for Kishan's innings. And with Kishan racing away to

21 off nine balls, Rohit Sharma was more than happy to give the strike to his partner.

Kishan spared neither pace nor spin, but he took a particular liking to Yadav's loopy left-arm drifters. In the 14th, he played four completely different shots off consecutive balls to pocket 24 runs in a flash. From 32 off 14 deliveries, Kishan had soon raced away to a 17ball fifty, the joint-fastest for a Mumbai batsman.

In the next over, Kishan fell in the most Kishan-like manner. After sending Sunil Narine deep into the stands over midwicket, he swept once again - looking for his seventh six - but found Robin Uthappa manning the backward square boundary.

Kishan had fallen for a 21ball 62, and Mumbai's score

had swollen by 82 runs in just 5.4 overs.

With a platform set for a big total, Ben Cutting walked in soon after in the 18th over, and carried on from where Kishan had left off. He smacked his second ball for a six over long on before finishing Mumbai's innings in style. He struck 16 off the final over's first three balls before Krunal Pandya ended Mumbai's innings with a maximum.

They finished on 210, having creamed 58 runs off the final four overs.

Sunil Narine was back opening for KKR, and the hosts had a perfect start when the pinch-hitter smashed Mitchell McClenaghan over his head first ball. But McClenaghan got his revenge next delivery by bowling short and cramping Narine for space.

A brief recovery followed, with Chris Lynn and Robin Uthappa making use of only two outfielders in the Powerplay, but their chase was once again derailed in the fourth over when Lynn attempted a suicidal run.

Uthappa had sliced the ball to cover point off the front foot, but Lynn thought he wanted the run. Lynn sprinted halfway down the wicket - only to be sent back

by Uthappa - and with that KKR had lost both openers.

KKR, however, could not afford to apply the brakes to

Krunal Pandya celebrates with his teammates after picking up a wicket against Kolkata Knight Riders

their chase, and that style of play sent Uthappa holing out to deep midwicket. Andre Russell slapped Hardik Pandya straight to the man at cover in the eighth over, but it was Hardik's double wicket tenth-over that all-but-ended KKR's push for a win.

The first ball of the tenth was steered by Nitish Rana to point, but a miscommunication with his captain sent Dinesh Karthik back for 5.

The next ball, Rana himself sliced a catch to deep midwicket and KKR were reeling at 67 for 6 even before

Sunrisers one win away from the playoffs T

he stakes could not be higher.

A win on today, Thursday, will put Sunrisers Hyderabad in the playoffs, and a loss will throw Delhi Daredevils out of the tournament, but wait, there's more.

Imagine Bhuvneshwar Kumar at the top of his mark. At the top of his game. One of the best bowlers in limited-overs cricket. And at the other end, an 18-year old, with scant international experience, but bursting with so much talent that he is already being compared to Sachin Tendulkar.

We've been here before, of course.

Prithvi Shaw scored 65 off 36 balls against Sunrisers on Saturday. Clearly, the battle between the next generation of Indian batsmen - Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant included - and some of T20 cricket's finest bowlers - Rashid Khan and Shakib Al Hasan - is just so

nice, you gotta see it twice, along with the bells and whistles of promotion and relegation. Among Daredevils' overseas batsmen, Jason Roy has scored 97 from three innings (including a 91*), Glenn Maxwell 133 from nine innings and Colin Munro 63 from five. Maxwell, however, has picked wickets in three of his last four games, and even bowled a Powerplay over for just four runs against Sunrisers. Given the drought of runs, Daredevils have started using two overseas slots for bowlers - Liam Plunkett and Trent Boult - apart from Dan Christian and could do the same on Thursday by picking only one of the above three batsmen. But who?

Sunrisers just about chased 164, with Yusuf Pathan proving man has more lives than a cat. Should have been out on 0, but the catch was dropped.

Was given out on 8 and seemed hap-

py to walk off until his captain stopped him and demanded he use DRS. After the lbw decision was overturned, he walloped a full toss straight down the ground to all but seal the game. It was glorious, and hilarious.

Likely XIs Delhi Daredevils: 1 Prithvi Shaw, 2 Jason Roy/Colin Munro/Glenn Maxwell, 3 Rishabh Pant (wk), 4 Shreyas Iyer (capt), 5 Naman Ojha, 6 Dan Christian, 7 Vijay Shankar, 8 Liam Plunket, 9 Amit Mishra, 10 Avesh Khan, 11 Trent Boult Sunrisers Hyderabad: 1 Shikhar Dhawan, 2 Alex Hales, 3 Kane Williamson (capt), 4 Shakib Al Hasan, 5 Manish Pandey, 6 Yusuf Pathan, 7 Rashid Khan, 8 Wriddhiman Saha (wk), 9 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10 Siddarth Kaul, 11 Sandeep Sharma

(ESPNcricinfo)

the 10th over had ended.

In their previous game against KKR, Mumbai's quicks bowled 69% of their deliveries either short or back of a length, and earned three wickets at an economy of 7.75. So, why change a winning tactic?

They used more short stuff at Eden Gardens and earned four wickets to those

lengths. Narine, Russell, Rana and Rinku Singh were all troubled and dismissed either fending or slogging at such deliveries. In all, Mumbai bowled 46 short balls out of 109 deliveries in KKR's innings, at an economy of just 6.91. In contrast, KKR's short balls went for 10 per over and earned them no wickets. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Mumbai Indians Innings (20 overs maximum) BATSMEN SA Yadav c Singh b Chawla 36 E Lewis c Lynn b Chawla 18 RG Sharma (c) c Uthappa b Prasidh Krishna 36 Ishan Kishan † c Uthappa b Narine 62 HH Pandya c Singh b Curran 19 BCJ Cutting c Russell b Chawla 24 KH Pandya not out 8 JP Duminy not out 0 Extras 7 (b 2, nb 1, w 4) TOTAL 210-6 (20 Overs, RR: 10.5) Did not bat: MJ McClenaghan, M Markande, JJ Bumrah Fall of wickets: 1-46 (E Lewis, 5.4 ov), 2-62 (SA Yadav, 8.6 ov), 3-144 (Ishan Kishan, 14.4 ov), 4-177 (HH Pandya, 17.6 ov), 5-178 (RG Sharma, 18.2 ov), 6-204 (BCJ Cutting, 19.5 ov) BOWLING: AD Russell (2-0-16-0), M Prasidh Krishna (4-0-41-1), TK Curran (3-0-33-1), SP Narine (4-027-1), PP Chawla (4-0-48-3), Kuldeep Yadav (3-0-43-0) Kolkata Knight Riders Innings (target: 211 runs from 20 overs) BATSMEN SP Narine c KH Pandya b McClenaghan 4

CA Lynn run out (Yadav/Pandya) 21 RV Uthappa c Yadav b Markande 14 N Rana c Cutting b HH Pandya 21 AD Russell c Markande b HH Pandya 2 KD Karthik (c) † run out (Duminy/Pandya) 5 RK Singh c †Ishan Kishan b Bumrah 5 TK Curran c Duminy b KH Pandya 18 PP Chawla c Yadav b Cutting 11 Kuldeep Yadav lbw b KH Pandya 5 M Prasidh Krishna not out Extras 1 (lb 1) TOTAL 108 all out (18.1 Overs, RR: 5.94) Fall of wickets: 1-4 (SP Narine, 0.2 ov), 2-32 (CA Lynn, 3.6 ov), 3-49 (RV Uthappa, 6.4 ov), 4-54 (AD Russell, 7.6 ov), 5-67 (KD Karthik, 9.1 ov), 6-67 (N Rana, 9.2 ov), 7-76 (RK Singh, 10.2 ov), 8-93 (PP Chawla, 13.5 ov), 9-106 (TK Curran, 16.5 ov), 10108 (Kuldeep Yadav, 18.1 ov) BOWLING: MJ McClenaghan (3-0-24-1), KH Pandya (3.1-0-12-2), JJ Bumrah (3-0-17-1), HH Pandya (3-016-2), M Markande (4-0-26-1), BCJ Cutting (2-0-12-1)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

Former

Woods to play in British Open at

Darren Lehman

Australia

Head

Carnoustie

Coach set for new role

F

ormer Australia head coach Darren Lehmann, who resigned after the ball-tampering scandal in March, is set for a new role with Cricket Australia.

Lehmann, 48, was cleared of any involvement in ball-tampering on the tour of South Africa.

He will coach the national performance squad from 28 May until October.

"I had a good chat with him and he was really keen to continue his coaching," said national performance program head coach Troy Cooley.

"Darren has already told me he is relishing the opportunity, so it's win-win all round. "To have someone who's got that experience matching up with our coaching staff, it's invaluable," he told cricket.com.au.

Lehmann will work alongside former Australia batsman Chris Rogers and ex-seamer Ryan Harris.

Lehmann, who played 27 Tests and 117 one-day internationals for Australia, was appointed head coach in 2013.

He oversaw two Ashes series victories over England and a 2015 World Cup triumph on home soil.

Captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were sacked and banned for a year for their part in the ball-tampering controversy, while batsman Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months.

Justin Langer, who was last week named as Lehmann's successor, will oversee Australia's limited-overs tour of England in June. (BBCSport)

F

ormer world number one Tiger Woods has confirmed his entry for the 147th British Open at Carnoustie, the tournament organizers announced on Wednesday.

May 6, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tiger Woods watches his shot plays his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament at Quail Hollow Club. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports The 42-year-old has lifted the Claret Jug three times in his career but has not contested the sport’s oldest major championship since 2015 due to injury.

Woods, a 14-time major champion, has played seven times this year on his comeback after a successful spinal fusion operation last April, with a tie for second at the Valspar Championship his best result.

The Open returns to Carnoustie for the first time since 2007 when Woods finished joint 12th when he was seeking a third successive victory.

Woods finished tied for 32nd at the U.S. Masters in April, his first appearance at a major championship since 2015.

The British Open will be played from July 19-22.

(Reuters)

Britain’s Edmund stuns Djokovic

in Madrid, Nadal marches on

B

ritain’s Kyle Edmund enjoyed one of the biggest triumphs of his career by defeating former world number one Novak Djokovic 6-3 2-6 6-3 in the second round of the Madrid Open on Wednesday.

Djokovic, a two-time champion in the Spanish capital, has not won a deciding set this year and, having previously suffered final set losses to Martin Klizan, Dominic Thiem and Taro Daniel, the 30-year-old Serb’s disappointing run continued.

Edmund claimed the decisive break in the eighth game of the decider before coolly closing out his service game to love for his 14th match win of the year.

“It was a great experience to beat Novak, he is a legend of the

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic and Britain’s Kyle Edmund shake hands after their second round

game,” Edmund told Sky Sports.

“It’s time to try and beat these guys and I was pleased how I managed my game.”

The world number 22 will face eighth-seeded Belgian David Goffin in the third round.

Djokovic, who has been hampered by a long-term elbow injury, has not reached the last eight of a tournament since last year’s Wimbledon.

He has struggled on his return to clay ahead of the French Open, having suffered early exits in Monte Carlo and Barcelona last month.

“Look, there are obvious things that are not working well for me,” the 12-times grand slam champion said.

“But I have to keep work-

ing on them and pray that — and hope that my game will get stronger, get better as definitely as the matches... go the distance.”

World number one Rafa Nadal recorded his 20th straight win on clay as he began his quest for a sixth title in Madrid, defeating Frenchman Gael Monfils 6-3 6-1.

Nadal, who received a bye in the opening round, fired 17 winners and went on to lose just one of 13 service points in the second set to seal victory.

The 31-year-old Spaniard has now won 48 consecutive sets on the surface, two sets shy of breaking American John McEnroe’s record of 49 straight sets on a single surface in 1984.

(Reuters)

Former Manchester United

boss out of intensive care

S

ir Alex Ferguson no longer needs intensive care after undergoing emergency surgery on Saturday for a brain haemorrhage, Manchester United have announced.

Ferguson, 76, will continue his rehabilitation as an inpatient at Salford Royal Hospital.

The Scot retired as United manager in May 2013 after winning 38 trophies during 26 years in charge.

"His family have been overwhelmed by the level of sup-

port," the club added.

The family continue to request "vital" privacy as Ferguson enters the next stage of his recovery.

He was last seen in public at Old Trafford last month when he presented outgoing Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger with a commemorative trophy.

Reacting to the update on his condition, Wenger said: "It's fantastic news. He has worked very hard and deserves a long period of enjoying life. I hope he's back soon and in good

Sir Alex Ferguson

shape."

Yaya Toure wished Ferguson a speedy recovery before the midfielder gave a farewell speech following his final game for Manchester City.

The most successful manager in the history of the British game, Ferguson's trophy haul at Old Trafford included 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups.

Ferguson famously won the Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in

1999, the year in which he was knighted. A host of Premier League managers, including Wenger and Manchester City's Pep Guardiola, sent their good wishes over the weekend to Ferguson. Wenger described Ferguson as "an optimistic man" with Guardiola saying his thoughts were with Ferguson's wife Cathy and the rest of his family.

He became United manager in November 1986 after spells in charge of Scotland, Aberdeen and St Mirren. (BBCSport)

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Mushtaq Ahmed joins CWI on 4-week bowling stint F

ormer Pakistan spin maestro, Mushtaq Ahmed will spend 4-weeks in the Caribbean from May 10 – June 7 to work with the current squads training.

CWI approached Mushtaq to get involved in the high-performance program, with him agreeing to come initially for a 4-week stint. During this time, he will spend time with all our high-performance squads – International, “A” team and Women’s. His time in the region fits perfectly with all the squads training for their respective tours.

His arrival ties in with the on-going high-performance program “where we want to provide the best coaches for our players” according to CWI Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adams.

Adams continued that “al-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

Mushtaq Ahmed

though this initial stint is four weeks both parties are already discussing the possibility of engaging Ahmed on a more regular basis in the future, not only to work with our players but just as importantly with our coaches in the

region.

Nine technical coaches are currently contracted

by CWI for our major teams, the WINDIES Senior Men’s, WINDIES Senior Women’s and the WINDIES A Teams, who will all shadow Ahmed

during his session.

Adams, who is delighted with the selection, says “I am pleased to welcome Mushtaq Ahmed into the Caribbean and look forward to his upcoming period with our elite squads. Mushtaq comes with a wealth of experience of having worked for a long time with elite level spinners and I am sure he will add value to our High-Performance programs. I am hopeful that we can engage Mushtaq beyond this initial 4-week period and have him here in the West Indies on a more consistent basis sharing his expertise with both players and coaches across the region.”

Ahmed has successfully worked with international and fringe players in both Pakistan and the UK and is recognized as a top-quality spin bowling coach.

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League on this Saturday T

revon Adams piloted Mahaica Determinators to a sensational come-from-behind victory in the latest round of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/Pele Alumni Frank Watson Under-15 League, Saturday last at the Golden Grove Ground.

Plaisance Panthers bowed out 4-3 as Adams’s hat-trick was the driving force. He scored in the 43rd, 79th and 85th minutes.

Panthers opened the scoring in the 39th minute when Simon Hill

found the back of the net, but was answered four minutes later by Adams.

Not letting up, the Plaisance side regained the lead through a Jamal Fraser strike in the 62nd minute then made it a two-possession game when Stephone Millington scored in the 69th minute.

After that, Determinators’ resurgence was initialised by Eyon Fernandes who found the back of the net in the 73rd minute.

In the other match, Victoria Scorpions came back from a two-goal

deficit to draw 2-2 with Ann’s Grove.

Ann’s Grove had run away with a 2-0 lead following a brace from Shane Higgins who scored in the 15th and 48th minutes.

Scorpions’ Mark Roberts imposed on Higgins’ thunder with a double of his own constructed in quick fashion.

The 55th and 58th minute goals were enough to earn a share of points at the regulation time whistle.

The action is scheduled to continue on Saturday, weather permitting.

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Dwayne Bravo

est Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has signed for English county side Middlesex for this year's Twenty20 Vitality Blast.

Bravo, who has helped West Indies win the global T20 tournament on two occasions, will represent Middlesex in the first six matches of the campaign, making his debut against Surrey at Lord's on July 5.

"I've been fortunate enough throughout my career to have played all round the world and Lord's in London is a place that really excites me," said Bravo.

"Dwayne is one of the most exciting and best T20 players in the world," said Middlesex managing director of cricket Angus Fraser.

"He can win games of cricket with bat or ball." (AFP)

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

NAMILCO Wiltshire, Harding win opening matches Woodpecker Products National Junior Tournament…

P

erhaps the most important junior tournament on the squash calendar began on Tuesday evening at the Georgetown Club, Camp Street, as junior players started the journey to make their mark in the Woodpecker Junior Nationals.

Players began contending for the titles by age group from 18:00h, with the

Openingnight results:

U-17 League continues

three off Rylee Rodrigues 11-2, 11-3, 11-4.

In the Boys’ Under-13 match, Nicholas Verwey came out full force against Demetrius DeAbreu and showcased his lately improved form by pushing DeAbreu to 10-8, but DeAbreu took the next four points to take the first game 12-10. After that, Verwey was Michael Alphonso beat Mohryan Baksh 11-1, 11-1, 11-2.

Under-15 Girls

Under-11 Girls

Malia Maikoo beat Rylee Rodrigues 11-2, 11-3, 11-4.

Christiana Fernandes beat Safira Summer 11-0, 11-4, 11-3.

Kirsten Gomes beat Monisha Persaud 11-0, 11-1, 11-1.

Abosaide Cadogan beat Teja Edwards 11-0, 11-1, 11-0.

Makeda Harding

Under-15 Boys

Under-11 Boys

Shomari Wiltshire beat Gianni Carpenter 11-4, 11-1, 11-2.

Louis DaSilva beat Grant Fernandes 11-1, 11-0, 11-1.

Chad DeAbreu beat Breno DaSilva 11-3, 11-5, 11-1.

Under-17 Girls

Makeda Harding beat Aliyah Persaud 11-5, 11-6, 11-6.

Under-13 Boys

Ethan Jonas beat Lucas Persaud 11-1, 11-1, 11-3.

Demetrius DeAbreu beat Nicholas Verwey 12-10, 11-3, 11-4. first of the games played in the Girls’ Under-11 category where Christiana Fernandes got the better of Safira Summer in three straight games and Malia Maikoo followed suit taking

Under-17 Boys

Samuel InceCarvalhal beat Osmond Mack 11-2, 11-3, 11-2.

unable to match the speed and placement of the more experienced player and DeAbreu won the match 12-10, 113, 11-4. Aliyah Persaud, playing above her age category in the Girls’ Under-17

match-up with seasoned Makeda Harding, put up a good fight after her short break from the game. Persaud kept up the rallies and piled on the pressure to gain five and six points respectively in the first two games.

She seemed to lose momentum in the third, earning only one point against the dominance of Harding, who earned seven, before a run of five points put Persaud back in the game at 6-7. Harding, however, buckled down to win the next four and secure an 11-6 victory. Matches will continue throughout the week starting at 18:00h, with two sessions on Saturday from 11:00h and 18:00h, before finishing on Sunday afternoon after an 11:00h start.

No acceptance of late entries for KMTC pre-independence meet

B

despite inclement weather

uxton Stars stormed to a mighty win over Plaisance Panthers on Sunday last when the NAMILCO National Under-17 Intra-Association League continued at the Golden Grove Ground.

The East Demerara Football Association (EDFA)-organised event, which is drawing to a close, saw Buxton win 8-1.

Shamar McPherson and Shamar Scott both recorded a brace as they led their side to victory. McPherson recorded a first-half double with goals in the ninth and 32nd minutes, while Scott’s goals were the foundation of the second half as he scored in the 56th and 60th minutes.

Other scorers were Shamar Kingston who

scored in the 22nd minute; Colin Wills from the penalty spot in the 62nd, Corwin Maxwell in the 68th and an agonising own goal from Panthers’ Shamar George in the 70th minute.

Plaisance got their consolation goal off the boot of Azandee King from the penalty mark in the 46th minute. The competition is being contested for the first time by the nine member associations of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) after NAMILCO, the National Milling Company of Guyana, inked a five-year contract with the Federation.

Action kicked off last year, but owing to challenges with the weather, many associations have had to put matches off since venues often became unplayable.

Fitness Express on board

Another action-packed day is anticipated on May 20 at the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club

T

he organiser of the upcoming Pre-Independence Horse Race Meet, retired Justice Cecil Kennard is firm on his stance that late entries will not be accepted when registration closes on Sunday.

Thirty entries have been sent in to date for the meet, which is slated for May 20 at Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC), Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice.

Justice Kennard further highlighted crowd attractions such as T&T, who won its last two starts in the H & Lower Class; Midnight Blue; Red Jet; MerryAnn, and Miss Olympic among other top names will feature in seven planned races.

One of those races will be for the 2-year-old trial and cov-

No.

Class

Dist.

1st

ers a distance of two furlongs. Given the tradition that the race season starts May 1 and the fact that the horses will not be ready for a full distance of five to six furlongs, this race was implemented, Justice Kennard indicated.

With registration ranging from $11,000 to $28,000 per horse, dependant on class, the big prize of the day will come in the H & Lower which has a top prize of $240,000 while the J1 & Lower has a prize of $160,000. The rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) will be used to govern the action.

Next on the agenda for the Club will be meets on July 29, October 21 and the grand meet on Boxing Day.

2nd

3rd

4th

Entries

L –Non Earners of 50,000 from January (2017)

5 Furs

$100,000

$50,000

$25,000

$13,000

$11,000

K & Lower

$70,000

$35,000

$18,000

$16,000

L-Non Winner W/A

2 Furs

$140,000

4

2 year-old trial

5 Furs 5 Furs

$120,000

$60,000

$30,000

$15,000

$13,000

6

H & Lower

1

2 3 5

7

J1 & Lower L-Open

7 Furs

7 Furs 5 Furs

$100,000 $160,000

$240,000 $130,000

$50,000 $80,000

$120,000 $65,000

$25,000

$40,000

$60,000 $33,000

$13,000

$11,000

$20,000

$18,000

$17,000

$15,000

$30,000

$28,000

Intermediate/ Masters National Championship

F

i t n e s s Express has been a major sponsor for events of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) and has once again sponsored another event – the upcoming Intermediate/Masters Championship.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 13 at the St Stanislaus College Forum, Brickdam.

Darren McDonald, a representative of Fitness Express, presented the sponsorship to Colin Austin, the treasurer of the GAPLF, on Wednesday, ahead of the competition.

The starting time for the event is 09:00h and participating athletes are required to be at the venue for 07:00h for the weigh-in which closes at 08:30h.

The admission fee for the event is set at $500.

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

23

Berbice still female

inter-county champions

A

nother clinical display by Berbice ensured they retained the title of Guyana's superior female inter-county team at the conclusion of the Guyana Cricket Board-organised 50-over tournament on Wednesday at Lusignan.

They humbled Demerara by 50 runs as that team were unable to chase 132 in their revised 32 overs.

Demerara were guilty of not forming partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals in their slide to defeat.

Diminutive opener Mandy Mangru looked the part with some crisp shots, but lacked power, reaching the ropes just twice in her unbeaten 33 while Cherry-Ann Fraser cracked a quick 21.

Captain Tremayne Smartt is all smiles as she collects her playerof-the-match award from match referee Moses Ramnarine

Demerara's innings ended on 81-8 in 24 overs. Latoya Smith and Kaycia Schultz were unable to bat owing to injuries.

Captain and player of the match, Tremayne Smartt rocked the chase with some good pace, picking up 3-13 and got support from Senika Campbell, who took 3-9.

The home side's batters played with greater intent, but that on the flip side brought about their demise. Earlier, Berbice's innings got off to a solid start with openers Shenita Grimmond and Melaine Henry adding 50 in 11.2 overs before former national player Grimmond, who was guilty of not hitting another gear, was needlessly out for 30 (2x4s).

Henry continued her painstaking innings, dropping anchor at one end while the others looked to press on the accelerator.

Another promising stand was building when Katana Mentmore fell for a boundary-less 10 in the 18th over; it was now 73-2.

Smartt, also a Windies player, made 12 and struggled to gather any fluency to her innings as well.

She became the second victim of Hassena Mohamed (2-23).

Berbice's star in the previous match against Essequibo, Evra Giddings made an up-tempo 19 (2x4s), and the team ended on 1313 from their 32 overs.

Attention will now turn to the 20-over segment, which starts on Friday at Everest.

Intermediate/Masters powerlifting exposition on Sunday

– 74-year-old Nairanjan Singh set to compete

Beckles, Rajiv Indarjeet, Ramzan Mohamed, Runita White, Sherlock Rigby, Shivdatt Hansraj, Susan Rodrigues, Timothy Bagla, Timothy Romalho, Tineisha Toney, and Vijai Rahim.

In 2017, Buddy’s Gym’s Martin Webster, Space Gym’s “Big” John Edwards and Hardcore Gym’s Farouk Abdool, all masters athletes, rewrote the record books.

Sunday’s event starts with Flight A at 09:00h and then flight B from 13:00h. The participating athletes are required to be at the venue for weigh-in at 07:00h.

T

The masters will be in action and hopefully more records can be broken

he Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) will shift its attention to the Intermediate/ Masters when it hosts the 2018 champions on Sunday at the St Stanislaus College.

The big attraction is set to be 74-year-old Nairanjan Singh, Guyana's oldest competing, gold-medal winning and record-holding power lifter. Seventy-year-old Noel Cummings, who is also an active body builder, will be in action as well, backed up by the 66-year-old Frank Tucker.

Based on information received, 33 persons have registered for the event. The other persons are Bjorn Williams, Blossom Babb, Carlos Peterson-Griffith, Christopher Sookdeo, Colin Chesney, Deonarine Dutt, Dwayne Welch, Ede Tyrell, Fawaz Rampertab, Franklyn Brisport-Luke, Grace Babb, Greg Stevens, Jackquelyn Toney, Junica Pluck, Keshawn Rahiman, Leroy Trotman, Martin Webster, Matthew Maycock, Nadina Taharally, Onika

thursDAY, may 10, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Berbice still female intercounty champions Pg 23

The victorious Berbice team celebrate their fifth consecutive inter-county title

Pg 22

Fitness Express on board Intermediate/Masters National Championship Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) Treasurer Colin Austin receives the sponsorship from Fitness Express’ Darren McDonald

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