Guyana Times International 21st December 2018

INTERNATIONAL THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Tension mounts

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ISSUE NO. 428

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018

– as no-confidence debate set to begin in Guyana

See stories inside

NY-based Guyanese Families facing to be charged for “chaos, confusion allegedly murdering and misdirection” teen daughter, friend …Ram says in aftermath of Page 11

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estate closures in Guyana

NEW GPC INC successfully completes US FDA Audit

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NEWS 3

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NY-based Guyanese to be charged for allegedly murdering teen daughter, friend A Guyanese man who was nabbed by Police in New York for allegedly shooting and killing

old, Abdool Zaman who migrated to the United States several years ago and currently residing in Orlando, Florida, reVanessa Zaman (CBS6 News photo)

ABC 8 News

his 18-year-old daughter and her friend in the Henrico County will soon face the relevant charges for the crimes.

Thirty-nine-year-

portedly killed the duo, Vanessa Zaman and Leona Samlall as they were walking near the Oakmeade Apartments on Airport Drive and

East Nine Mile Road in Highland Springs just after midday last Thursday, one block from where they lived.

Reports indicate that Zaman had report-

edly been staying with Samlall’s family when the killings occurred.

It is also believed that Samlall’s father is the brother of Zaman.

Samall had also

been reportedly missing and listed on the Henrico County’s missing list since 2016 when she withdrew from the Highland Spring School reportedly escaping a

rocky relationship.

A motive for the killings is yet to be determined; however, Zaman is expected to be charged continued on page 5

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

INTERNATIONAL To contact: Guyana Times International

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Tel no: (592) 223-7230/1, 225-7761.

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EDITORIAL

Conventions of parliamentary democracy Lest we forget, the past I remains a harsh reminder Welcome Home! Staff of the Guyana Tourism Authority welcoming incoming passengers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with black cake and putting a smile on their faces (DPI photo)

t is a cliché to say that divorces are messy, but with Britain’s efforts to part ways with the EU, we can also conclude that divorce between countries is no different. We have all gone through the reasons why a majority of Britons chose “Brexit” – chief among them being their gripe that decisions on their “way of life” were being made by faceless bureaucrats in Brussels. But actually, nativist fears of being swamped by Eastern Europeans, who could enter Britain freely as citizens of the EU, was more critical. As a member of the EU, Britain could not simply ban those immigrants as they did with “blacks and coloureds” in the 1960s, when similar fears were raised.

But if the majority of Britishers want to exit the EU, what is preventing them from so doing? Fundamentally, the British want to have their cake (leave the EU) and eat it too — not having a “hard” border between Ireland, which is part of the EU, and Northern Ireland, which is part of Britain. This issue has been dubbed “the backstop” for Northern Ireland: having an open border between an EU member country (Ireland) and a British county (Northern Ireland) and not have all of Britain be subject to EU regulations. Which was the raison d’etre for leaving the EU in the first place.

One may ask why not accept the “hard” border between Northern Ireland and Ireland by unilaterally departing? And the answer to this conundrum is this is unacceptable to the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland, which provide the crucial support for Theresa May’s Conservative Party to continue in Government. The DUP want to continue with their open border with the rest of Ireland. The issue then boils down to pragmatic politics.

While most Conservatives are Brexiteers, there are growing doubts in their ranks about their party leader, May, renegotiating a deal with the EU in time for their January 21 vote for the March 29 Brexit. As it is presently, the deal on the table, from which the EU will not budge, is for the Irish border to remain soft, and be amended solely at the EU’s discretion. But that would result in checks being introduced between the UK and Northern Ireland, and it is feared this may lead to a recurrence of the Irish “troubles” with an effective border in the middle of the Irish Sea. But what is the takeaway for us from the saga unfolding in the “Mother of Parliaments”? One is an object lesson with the PPPC’s no-confidence motion coming up for debate this coming Friday, Dec 22. In Britain, the members of the PM’s own Conservative party moved a motion of no-confidence against her to signal their disapproval of her handling of the negotiations with the EU. While May won the vote 200 to 117, the exercise demonstrated that in the Parliamentary System of government we practise, members of the Government can act on their principles and vote their consciences.

And this is the issue on the table come Dec 21 in our National Assembly. The PPPC will deliver their arguments as to why the PNC-led coalition Government’s handling of the affairs of the Guyanese state has demonstrated that they are unfit to continue in office. But even more importantly, the just concluded Local Government Elections (LGE) allowed the people of Guyana to signal their opinion about the Government’s capabilities. The PPP won 61 per cent of the popular votes, while the PNC was able to scrape together 34 per cent and the AFC 4 per cent.

While it is true there was a low turnout, the major parties participated in their own name, and the LGE can be seen as a poll on the performance of the PNC. On December 22, it is hoped, all the members of the National Assembly – including Government MPs — will listen to the voice of their people and vote accordingly.

The conventions of parliamentary democracy demand no less.

T

he comment a few weeks ago by the Chairperson of the People’s National Congress (PNC) stating a preference of giving jobs only to supporters of the party, still resonates. An apology was issued and one can argue over its lack of immediacy given the impact such comments can have in a multifaceted and politically polarised society like Guyana.

Another argument can also be made that the chairperson was at the time speaking to party supporters and can be seen as appeasement over their concerns and without malice for wider society. Aside from the social impact, one lesson is the need for leaders to be extremely cognisant of their utterances mindful of national sensitivities and the ubiquitous presence of devices to capture video and audio.

For those who are offended by the statement, history can vindicate their sentiments which can be premised on fear.

To understand this, it would be useful to revisit the period of Guyana’s history when party paramountcy consumed everything else. Then, when the PNC ruled, oppression was routine as the prevailing scarcity of basic food items, at least to the masses.

Long lines outside stores, believed to be stocked, were common across the country on a daily basis. Many spent days and were left empty-handed compounding their woes to feed their families. It was heart-wrenching to hear the stories of mothers and fathers, who, despite valiant efforts of queuing up for days in rain and sun, were unable to provide a basic meal.

That was a horrible time but some found it easier; those with PNC party cards. It was like a passport for those privileged ones to access and purchase whatever was available.

In many cases, they had more

choices than what was made available to those languishing in the long lines.

That reminds of the Knowledge Sharing Institute (KSI) establishments which were managed by the PNC and reportedly were intended, at least through the name, for party indoctrination, but doubled as distribution outlets for basic food items. Similar establishments were operated under the co-op system and again, having a PNC party card made for easy access.

What was also striking is that some who were in charge and who reigned supreme, especially from the co-op managed ones, chose among those without cards to be given access to make purchases. They were allegations of some females forced to offer sexual favours in exchange for such access. What that meant, is that many were forced into humiliation with some, desperate to ease their sufferings, joined the PNC to acquire a party card.

Hard choices had to be made propelled by the cries of hunger especially by children. Those who were known to be supportive of the then Opposition, were targeted and face the brunt of the oppressive power. The security forces were used as tools to carry out their wishes. In many instances, the end results were brutality and incarceration from trumped-up charges.

During that period, there was no ambiguity of the stranglehold the PNC as a party took on the country as jobs and access were primarily for their supporters. That naturally instilled a profound sense of fear in others and cowed many into submission. From a national standpoint, and more than likely to emphasise party supremacy, the PNC flag was hoisted and made to fly higher than the Golden Arrowhead at the Appeal Court in Kingston.

If there was any doubt that

one action told the story as there was no longer a separation of powers of the Executive and the Judiciary. That particular fluttering PNC flag epitomised the oppression the party inflicted on the nation. In the minds of many, that is still fresh as is the pain they were forced to bear. For them, that is the fear and pain the recent statement in question would have unearthed. They may have good reason to still worry given some actions since May 2015, including the firing of professional staff mainly from one ethnic group and preferential hiring from another.

There may also be no reason to doubt the genuineness of the apology offered and the explanation that what was unfortunately said is not policy.

However, the actions alluded to would be seen as counter to any effort to genuinely dispel fear as it relates to employment. One example is the current composition of Permanent Secretaries which does not reflect the diversity of the country. That strongly suggests that actions have to match the rhetoric especially when it is this Government that established the Social Cohesion Ministry which was groundbreaking and much needed and which raised expectations of all in the endeavour for national cohesion.

Based upon what that Ministry has done so far, there is need to be convinced of the mandate as intended and what was sold to the public. That strongly implies that much more needs to be done and those entrusted with national responsibilities remain aware how they can contribute to the rupturing of the social fabric.

While all have a role to play, the onus generally falls on the Government of the day to genuinely lead the process. Lest we forget, the past remains a harsh reminder.

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NY-based Guyanese to be charged for allegedly... from page 3

Leona Samlall (CBS6 News photo)

with two counts of second-degree murder shortly.

In the meanwhile, Vanessa Zaman’s mother, Saveeta Barnes took to her Instagram account to share her sorrow over her dauther’s demise.

“The loss of a child is like losing your inner soul,” Barnes posted on Instagram. “My daughter was my life and nothing will ever be the same.

Always in my heart my baby girl…My heart is torn into a million pieces, I cannot bring myself to accept the reality of losing my love, my child, my firstborn, my everything.

I wish I could rewind time my baby, I will see you soon. Mommy loves you to infinity and beyond my “lilo,” my lovee.

Rest in peace my love, rest in peace” Barnes wrote.

Over G$780M expended in 2018 for legal fees on border controversy case – Greenidge

F

oreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge on Thursday said that more than G$780 million was spent to cover the 2018 fees for the legal team that Guyana has recruited to lead its case regarding the border controversy with Venezuela which is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

This money is from the US$15 million that was set aside from the controversial US$18 million signing bonus that Guyana received from US oil giant ExxonMobil.

Guyana is moving full steam ahead in solidifying its case against the Spanish-speaking country’s claim to Guyana’s sovereign territory.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge had said that the ICJ would decide on Jurisdiction after February 2019 and on Monday, his ministry officially announced that Guyana submitted its Memorial on Jurisdiction to the world court which aims to have ICJ vali-

GPHC boss taking steps to address “bad attitude” of nurses, doctors

I

n admitting that some nurses and doctors at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) have “bad attitudes”, Chief Executive Officer of the Hospital, Brigadier (Ret’d) George Lewis during an interview with Guyana Times International said the entity is working to tackle the issue through training.

The CEO explained to this newspaper that he received many complaints from patients when it comes to the attitude of nurses as well as some doctors.

“The behaviour of not only nurses but of healthcare workers in general has not been one that is acceptable,” he said.

Lewis was keen to note that while some healthcare workers may have unacceptable attitudes, there are a number of other dedicated and hardworking professionals who ought to be recognised for their service as well.

“However, in every barrel there might be one and two bad apples and we are working to address that,” he said.

According to him, the Hospital hopes to address this issue through training for their health workers.

“When we address it through training we are looking at letting the persons understand what is the acceptable behaviour (and) what we expect from them and we think that by providing training, it will help to alleviate the situation,” the CEO noted.

He was sure to point out that the attitude of those healthcare providers will not change overnight but the Hospital will “over a period of time” reduce the amount of reports being received.

According to him, training has begun with those healthcare providers. He explained, “We are doing training with two

fronts. In some cases it’s in-house, locally at Georgetown Public Hospital where we are doing customer care training. In some cases, we bring in facilitators from outside of the Hospital.”

In addition, he said that a number of other programmes are ongoing at the Accident and Emergency Department which is working along with a University by the name of Vanderbilt.

These programmes are designed to help the Emergency nurses when it comes to professionalism, behaviour, attitude, knowledge and other areas the CEO said.

“We are hoping that over time and with training, we are going to eliminate this problem,” the optimistic head asserted.

Patients have often times complained about not getting quality service at the GPHC.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

date an arbitral award that settled the international boundaries in 1899.

This comes five months after Government filed the Memorial in June 2018 to resolve the border controversy after Venezuela refused to participate in

proceedings.

Information disclosed from the Memorial says that Venezuela is not correct in arguing that the controversy must be resolved exclusively by friendly negotiations, a claim which Guyana says is not justified in the terms of the final

1966 Geneva Agreement to which both parties agreed. It adds that the boundaries were set out between Guyana and Venezuela in 1897 before October 1899 award.

It was in January 2018 that UN SecretaryGeneral António Guterres chose adjudication by the Court as the means for finally resolving the controversy with Guyana filing its case in March of this year.

As the Foreign Affairs Minister continues to lead Guyana’s case, his ministry said that the State has no doubt that the ICJ has jurisdiction to resolve the controversy which has undermined Guyana’s ability to develop its natural resources.

It was after US oil giant ExxonMobil announced its first of many oil finds in 2015 that Venezuela renewed its claim to two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.

However, the United States has recently adopted an approach of supporting Guyana’s case.

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APNU/AFC Govt trying to build a first world country on a donkey cart economy Dear Editor, The Theme of the 2019 Budget ‘ T r a n s f o r m i n g the Economy, Empowering People, Building Sustainable Communities for a Good Life’, could have been considered impressive if those objectives outlined could be achieved throughout the length and breadth of this shattered nation after almost four years of mismanagement and incompetence

by APNU/AFC coalition Government.

This APNU/AFC Government has elevated incompetence to the highest possible level where “incompetence” is being worshipped by the President, Prime Minister, Ministers of Government, APNU/ AFC Members of Parliament and whenever and wherever they give speeches they attempt to glorify the perceived “good life”.

The leader of the opposition Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and Opposition Members of Parliament highlighted the inefficiencies, deficiencies, corruption and mismanagement that existed in the 2019 Budget. The Budget presentation by the Opposition Leader Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has expanded the cracks

to now huge holes in the failed APNU/AFC Government.

Berbice (Region six) can be considered the most affected region in the entire country, since the targeted demolition of the two sugar estates (Rose Hall and Skeldon Estate) left its 5000 workers on the bread line. The people of Region six were hoping that this G300.7 billion dollars 2019 Budget would have at least initiated the revitalisation of the sugar industries, subsidised the water or electricity, or even created investments that would assist in absorbing the thousands of laid off workers in Region six.

The sugar workers’ situation is worsened with each passing day, for example a few days ago sugar workers (Rose Hall Estate) of Canefield East Canje; their water supply was disconnected by GWI for a meager G$3000 and would need G$7000 to be reconnected, with increasing pressure, it can be considered “criminal” by this APNU/AFC coalition Government.

The Central Government continues to trample regional authorities in executing projects in the region because of the fear of

the region exposing their corruption.

Millions are being spent for the installation and maintenance of street lights in region six, but unfortunately, as soon as you cross the Berbice bridge a road block welcomes you by the Public Security Minister and the Guyana Police Force, but only three of the fifteen street lights are working and as such you cannot even see the police or the road barriers during the night.

What is even worse, is the Canje Bridge only having five of twenty lights in working order, the nurses from New Amsterdam Public Hospital use this bridge almost every night.

Unfortunately the various Ministers blame the regional authorities for their deficiencies.

This APNU/AFC coalition Government is trying to build a first world country on a donkey cart economy. Ross Perot said “The Budget should be balanced, the treasury should be refilled, the public debt should be reduced and the arrogance of public officials should be controlled”.

Regards, Zamal Hussain

Every Guyanese should feel included regardless of who is in power

Dear Editor, What we are dealing with here is a political culture that has been developed over 50 years of the PPP and PNC fighting each other. Both sides believe that they are right and only they have the solutions to Guyana’s problems.

Some would advocate that we need to rid ourselves of both the PPP and PNC to move forward, which is wishful thinking.

People in society are not listening to what is being said; they are just listening to what their side says without trying to understand the point-of-views being expressed by others.

You need to get the PPP and PNC to reconcile their differences and work for

the betterment of all Guyanese. The alternative is a permanent divorce.

Until someone comes along who can make a greater impact on the political scene by eroding both the PPP and PNC support base then Guyanese are in for more of the same.

What about the AFC? Well, the AFC was formed with the intention of breaking away from the past, to fight the racial politics. But its strategy morphed into fighting to get into power. It sided with the PNC to get power only to now find itself powerless.

What needs to change?

Clearly something needs to change so that every Guyanese can feel included regard-

less of who is in power. What needs to be changed is that the PPP and PNC needs to publicly acknowledge that they do not singularly have the solutions to all of Guyana’s problems. And, that they need the other side’s real input.

This is not a proposition for shared governance, as the PPP and PNC still need to demonstrate that they can work together for the national good.

Those who propose shared governance may get it only on paper.

Consensus politics is about working together, building trust, mutual understanding and mutual respect.

Yours Faithfully, Sean Ori

Acting President cannot sit in the National Assembly

Dear Editor, In conversations I had with specialists who know parliamentary and legal affairs, it seems that the Speaker ruled wrongly in the opposition’s request to disallow the Prime Minister, acting in the capacity as President, from sitting in the Assembly. The Speaker referred the matter to the constitutional commission committee. The opposition had challenged the acting President from sitting in the assembly – saying he was squatting there. The Speaker needed to rule whether the acting President could sit in the assembly or not. It was not about amending the constitution.

So he ruled erroneously unless he was seeking advice on how he should rule.

The fraudulent Burnham constitution is very specific in articles 96, 103, and 178 in who can act as President and what happens thereafter. The latter states that the acting president must temporarily vacate his or her seat in the assembly with someone replacing him or her until such time that the acting president ceases the duties.

Clearly, any functionally literate person would understand this to mean that the acting President cannot sit in the assembly.

Having noted the above, I disagree with the Burnham constitution

on this issue. I am of the view that a person (any Cabinet member) acting as President should be allowed to sit in the House to give stability and order to the Assembly since he or she is familiar with the affairs of the House.

But this would require constitutional reform to which the coalition is not interested.

Also, the fact that the numbers in the House don’t change when a person acts as President renders the issue moot in any side having an advantage or disadvantage. The acting President does not lessen the numbers of the coalition in Parliament if he leaves the House. According to the fraudulent Burnham constitution, a person from the parliamentary list of the ruling coalition (of May 2015) could be appointed to temporarily fill the seat vacated by the acting President. And even if a vacancy is not filled, there will be a 32-32 tie assuming no one deviates from the vote. And by the way, 32 is not a majority or passage of bill as the Speaker once declared two years ago.

A vote of 32-32 is maintenance of the status quo. The Speaker cannot vote; the fraudulent Burnham constitution is clear on that point.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Guyana’s race relations body must first engage the politicians Dear Editor, The constitutional Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) should direct its work as a matter of high priority at political leaders, Ministers of Government, members of the National Assembly, public servants, politicians and political groups of the People’s Progressive Party and the People’s National Congress.

Working first with these categories can impact positively on race relations and social cohesion. They are the influential ones who – by private and public statements, conduct, and practice in their public duties – set the national tone for the politics of race and lust for power in Guyana. These groups should be the primary targets to promote peace, justice and reconciliation for the national community good.

The ERC will be wasting its time and resources and will achieve nothing, unless it engages the political players and public officials identified above in a determined effort to promote reconciliation for improved race

relations for the building of national unity. The ERC should simultaneously engage and investigate thoroughly public employment practices to determine fairness, discrimination based on ethnicity, political affiliation, or political opinion with reference to our Constitution and labour laws.

There is widespread observation and concern by the national community about employment practices in the public service and in public agencies. The Ethnic Relations Commission should undertake a comprehensive human resource audit on the ethnic composition of senior persons in the public sector for the challenge to those in public life, Government, the National Assembly, and public officials to take the appropriate corrective actions and measures in the national interest. The ERC can only justify its existence with integrity by pursuing actively the recommended actions above.

With thanks, Joshua Singh

Photographing President Granger during his illness Dear Editor, Stabroek News on December 12, 2018, along with the Guyana Chronicle; published a photograph released by The Ministry of the Presidency, show-

ing a picture of President Granger at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on the President’s return continued on page 7

news 7

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

No charges for Travis Chase over shooting incident …instead DPP recommends alleged victim be charged

J

ournalist Travis Chase has escaped the clutches of law enforcement following the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) opting against instituting charges relating to the shooting of a 28-year-old labourer two weeks ago.

The DPP rather advised that charges be laid against the labourer who was shot, Jimmy Ramgobin of Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, Georgetown for the throwing of missiles in a public way “to the annoyance or danger of any person”.

This decision came one day after Ramgobin claimed that the Police were attempting to cover up the matter as he was being giving the royal round around since the shooting occurred.

Ramgobin spoke with this publication on Tuesday and recounted the ordeal, revealing that at no time did he attack Chase by pelting bottles.

According to the man, on the night in question, he went out with friends and became highly intoxicated.

On his way home, he claimed that due to

Jimmy Ramgobin

his drunken state, he fell on the parapet and lost consciousness. He later learnt that he fell unconscious in front of Chase’s girlfriend’s property, located along De Abreu Street, Kitty, Georgetown.

However, he was allegedly awakened by repeated kicks to his ribs and in a traumatized state, he got up and attempted to es-

Photographing President Granger...

from page 6

from Cuba. During his stay in Cuba, he underwent medical treatment. Guyana Times and Kaieteur News, on the same date, used another photograph of the President that was much more appropriate and reflected the commanding posture and image of our President.

Showing the President with a surgical mask over his mouth; clearly not in the best health, projecting a state of frailty, with his clothes looking oversized – all due to the Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that he has been diagnosed with, and subsequent chemotherapy treatment is unacceptable and wholly unnecessary.

President Granger has always presented himself to the Guyanese Public in elegantly fash-

ionable and impeccably stylish attire without being ostentatious.

It is beyond comprehension, why the Ministry of the Presidency would allow President Granger to be photographed while wearing the mask and clearly not in the best of health. It submerges rational thinking to justify taking such a photograph, and moreover, publishing the image. There are many pictures that could be used that reflect President Granger’s accomplished style of dressing, his look of leadership and his position as President of Guyana.

Hopefully, we will not see such a picture or similar snapshots of President Granger ever again in any of our major daily newspapers.

Sincerely, Nigel Hinds

cape the beating.

“Between my sleep, I feel somebody kicking me in my ribs when I look up, I see a man with a gun in he hand, I look on the other side, I see a girl standing on the other side, so I get up and I decided to run,” Ramgobin related.

He further recounted that as he ran away, he heard several shots being fired from behind him and suddenly felt a burning sensation on his right foot.

“I heard about four to five shots behind me, I then stop on Garnett Street corner and realise that I got

shot, when I look back, I didn’t see anybody,” the man revealed.

Ramgobin said with blood oozing from his leg, he made his way to the Police Station where he reported the matter.

He related that he was then taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) where he received treatment and was told by ranks that the matter would be investigated.

When questioned, Ramgobin held out that at no time did he attempt to attack Chase as was reported to the Plice.

“There is no way I can attack a person and get shoot behind my foot… there is no way I can attack him with a bottle and get shoot behind my foot, if I was attacking him, I was supposed to be shot in front so I did not shy him with no bottle,” Ramgobin is holding out.

According to the labourer, the bullet is currently lodged in his leg and could not be removed by doctors.

This, he noted, is hindering him from performing his work. He posited that he will not drop the matter, as he again maintained his innocence.

“I can’t do no kind of heavy work right now and this time of the year, I does work hard for my money… this bullet has not been removed, it’s still in my

Travis Chase

foot, the doctor tell me that bullet can’t come out because it jamming the nerves and the tissue, until January, then they could see if they could operate to take it out”.

It was first reported that on December 2, 2018, Ramgobin allegedly fell asleep on the parapet in front of the reporter’s girlfriend’s home but was subsequently awakened by the journalist.

On the other hand, the reporter told Police that he was attacked by the man who began to hurl bottles at him and in retaliation; he whipped out his licenced firearm and discharged sever-

al rounds. One of the bullets, he told police, struck Ramgobin.

This publication was told that a .32 spend shell was recovered at the scene.

As the news broke of the shooting incident, the journalist held out that he was not involved in the shooting incident and that he had to reason to be in De Abreu Street, Kitty, at that time in the morning since he resides at Lot 1 Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

He also related that he was not the owner of a .32 weapon.

8 news

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jagdeo rubbishes Govt’s claim that ‘400 young, black men’ were killed under PPP rule …calls for independent probe into jailbreak crime spree

P

eople’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has debunked as fallacious a list constantly referenced in sections of the media of persons allegedly murdered under the previous Administration, but in reality, this list is padded with the names of massacre victims and persons who died of natural causes.

At his press conference on Monday, Jagdeo walked with a copy of the list to show the media. He pointed out that among the names on the list are victims who lost their lives in the Lusignan, Lindo Creek and Bartica massacres.

“They would resurrect all of the old things.

So now with the resurrection of the 400 young, black men according to them, killed in the PPP era… remember, we made it clear in Parliament that we’re prepared to have a Commission of Inquiry [CoI] into the whole period, in which you can investigate the criminals, the phantom gangs, drug dealers, everyone else and their connections to political operatives on both sides.”

“We are confident,” Jagdeo continued. “We can demonstrate in any CoI that they had deep links in the [People’s National Congress] PNC. We are still waiting for the President to propose that CoI, because we support it.

He went off to do Lindo Creek (CoI) and got (retired Justice Donald) Trotman and the law-

yer, the Minister’s brother (Patrice Henry), to do that.”

According to Jagdeo, he wants a CoI covering the entire period from the 2002 Mash Day jailbreak to the time they were apprehended or killed. Jagdeo noted that the massacres that occurred within the time, where the criminals got their weapons from and any potential links between drug dealers and political figures should also be probed in the CoI. “All this talk about investigating, they would only say that because they had a hand in a lot of the turmoil that took place in that period. It was political.

I can show you the list.

Look at all these people,”

Jagdeo said, just before he brandished the list.

“They were all killed… the supposed black men.

Shazam Mohamed, Lusignan Massacre; Clarence Thomas, Lusignan Massacre; Ron Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Ashraf Ally, Errol Thomas.”

“You have people of every race here. You have the “Fine Man” gang members, the Bartica Massacre people, and members of the “Fine Man” gang. “Fine Man” (Rondel Rawlins) is on the list himself.

The Lindo Creek (victims). Two persons who died of heart attacks are on this list. Lieutenant Colonel D Narine died from heart attack and Tony Ross. And they’re

on the list. This is a fallacy. They don’t have anything else.”

Checks on the list confirmed that it contains the names not only of victims of the massacres, as well as the infamous Rondel “Fine Man” Rawlins and Jermaine “Skinny” Charles, but it also contains the names of criminal elements who were killed in shootouts with the Police.

One documented case in the list dates way back to 1999, with the inclusion of Terry Madhoo. Madhoo, also known as “Rusty”, was reportedly part of a gang that robbed an America Street cambio, opening fire indiscriminately, in the process injuring several persons, including

an off-duty Policeman.

Newspaper reports are that the gang was chased

by Police into a cane field on the East Bank of Demerara, during which gunfire was exchanged and Madhoo was killed.

The list is contained in a dossier that details various cases that occurred under the previous Government which the then Opposition parties and now governing coalition had wanted investigated for alleged human rights violations.

In the dossier, the joint Opposition parties of the Alliance For Change, National Front Alliance, People’s National Congress and the Working People’s Alliance all joined together in their demands

for an international inquiry.

“The goal of this dossier is to establish that there is a sufficient prima facie basis to warrant further interrogation of grave human rights abuses in Guyana by an independent body cloaked with the legal authority to do this,” the dossier also states.

The dossier was released by the then Opposition in 2009.

Since coming to office in 2015, however, the only steps that have been taken towards an investigation of that era is a CoI ordered by President David Granger into the Lindo Creek Massacre earlier this year.

President Granger pardons 3 female prisoners P

resident David Granger on Wednesday pardoned three female prisoners, thus allowing them to be home for Christmas.

The three women were pardoned pursuant to presidential powers under Article 188(2) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

The trio – Joanna Beckles, 26; Felicia Henry, 22 and Keysha Gibbs, 17 – who were all at the New Amsterdam Prison for various offences were released on Thursday.

The women have all served a portion of their respective sentences for larceny and forgery.

In 2015, 60 convicts were granted presidential pardons on Guyana’s 49th Independence anniversary by the President.

The release of prisoners in 2015 caused much controversy after Government had refused

to release the names and offences of those pardoned.

The President had indicated intentions to release another 60 young men and women in

2016, but this did not materialise.

In 2017, nine women prisoners were pardoned for Guyana’s 47th Republic Anniversary.

The prisoners, who were all inmates at the New Amsterdam penitentiary, were Kamla Bisram, 30; Malinda Beaton, 31; Charissazan Charles, 18;

Sasha Christopher, 18; Jenny Davis, 26; Vanessa Frank, 26; Barbra Hunte, 51; Kamwattie Persaud, 23 and Dhanmattie Seenarine, 47.

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

17 suicide Guyana Govt boasts attempts recorded of ‘achievements’ in 6 months …as no-confidence debate in Guyana is set to begin

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lthough the Guyana InterAgency Suicide Prevention Helpline continues to play a critical role in tackling the societal scourge of suicide, there have been 17 attempts from the month of June to date.

This is according to Police Commissioner Leslie James. Delivering the feature address at the Force’s annual Christmas Awards ceremony on Wednesday at Eve Leary, the Top Cop noted that thus far, the suicide helpline recorded 214 interactions with persons who were prone to committing the act.

He revealed that from June 2018 to date, there

hotline.

According to reports, suicide is said to be the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds globally, and in 2017, Guyana had a suicide rate of 29.9 deaths per 100,000 persons.

The Pan American Health Organisation’s (PAHO) 2017 Adolescent and Youth Health Report stated that suicide is a leading cause of death amongst persons within the age range of 15 to 24 years, which accounts for more than half of the deaths in persons between 20 and 24.

Only in August, a 22-year-old male nursing student, Heathecliffe

were a total of 59 interventions. This included 17 suicide attempts, 16 persons who thought of committing suicide, 14 expressing frustration, and 12 persons who were depressed.

The Inter-Agency Suicide Prevention Helpline was launched back in August 2015 to aid in the fight against the societal scourge after it was recognised that suicide rates in Guyana are as significant to that of serious crimes, hence the same urgency and attention was needed to help persons who may feel the need to harm themselves.

During a meeting in October led by the Top Cop, the European Union (EU) funded Inter-Agency Suicide Helpline came in for high praises for its professionalism and diligent work, especially when responding to clients. The meeting followed a successful 20-month collaboration between the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Inter-agency Suicide Helpline and Youth Challenge Guyana.

It was outlined that the Force manages and maintains the 24-hour suicide prevention hotline and Youth Challenge Guyana, through the EU-funded initiative and provides face-to-face counselling and follow-up for the persons referred by the

Allistare Bobbsemple, of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, ended his life by consuming a quantity of carbon tablets. He reportedly suffered from mental illness and was treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Days prior to the incident, he was reportedly seen acting in an abnormal manner. His mother, Tracy Bobbsemple had told this publication that the now dead man was wrongfully implicated in a robbery in July and was placed in the lockups but the matter was later dropped after no evidence was found against him. However shortly after, the young man was rearrested and charged for robbery.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on its website said that between 2010 and 2012, Guyana had recorded 667 reported suicide attempts. It recognised, however, that the Guyana Government has since launched the National Mental Health Action Plan for 2015– 2020 and a national suicide prevention plan.

However, these initiatives are said to be bearing fruit since it has been reported that the country’s suicide rate had reduced from 44.2 per cent per 100,000 people in 2012 to 24.6 per cent per 100,000 persons in recent years.

The National Assembly will be host to the NoConfidence Motion against the Government on Friday

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ith a NoConfidence Motion against it looming, Government on Tuesday reaffirmed that it was confident it would survive the vote; while at the same time hitting out at the Opposition and boasting of its achievements.

According to a statement released by the Government’s Department of Public Information (DPI), the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to fulfil its “good life for all” promise at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

While the Government acknowledged there were challenges and a “few” missteps, it insisted that there were also “impressive” successes since 2015. It bragged about its foreign affairs triumphs, the holding of Local Government Elections, regular Parliament sittings and Cabinet meetings and the “marked reduction” in serious crimes.

“Our coalition has promoted social security and lifted the image of our Indigenous peoples as Guyanese citizens, enjoying equal rights and opportunities. Our Government has upheld multicultural cooperation and facilitated social cohesion,” the coalition Government, through the DPI, also said.

“The coalition Government has restored confidence in, and integrity to, public life. We combatted rampant, pervasive corruption among persons holding public office, reconstituted the Integrity Commission and appointed a Public Procurement Commission to handle state procurement,” the Government added.

The Government went on to boast of installing “thousands” of street lights, improvements to education, “reliable public health care”,

infrastructural advancements, and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project started under the former Government.

Then it spoke of its efforts in the rice sector.

“We have worked on securing better and more markets for rice along with launching more seed paddy varieties for farmers who also benefit from several new, high capacity pumps and access to fertilisers,” the Government said.

“Guyana can now boast of having a truly national public informa-

tion network that links the coastland and the hinterland. Our people all across Guyana have free access to the Internet and are connected and communicating with persons all over the world,” the Government said, a reference to its Information Communication Technology (ICT) efforts.

“Against this background, the coalition Government is certain that the No-Confidence Motion brought by the Opposition Leader will be resoundingly and comprehensively defeated in the National Assembly

on Friday, December 21,” the Government added.

On the other hand, Opposition Leader Jagdeo had stated that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) had proffered several reasons for their move to file a no-confidence motion against the then PPP/C Government.

Among them was the restoration of monies cut from the Budget for the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF), hinterland airports, the University continued on page 10

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Doctor, auto body AG given more time to make technician shot and submissions on unilateral robbed by trailing bandit takeover of Berbice Bridge

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28-year-old auto body technician and his friend, who was identified as a doctor, were on Thursday afternoon shot and robbed of approximately G$400,000 after being trailed by a silver motorcar to Industry, East Coast Demerara.

The injured men have only been identified as Kissoon of Industry and Dr Lewis.

Based on informa-

tion received thus far, Kissoon, who is technician, and his friend travelled to a city bank in their motorcar and withdrew G$400,000 in cash.

They then travelled to Kissoon’s home, only to be attacked minutes later by a lone gunman who drove up in a silver motorcar. The bandit allegedly whipped out his gun and shot Kissoon to his arm and the doctor to his leg, before grab-

bing the bag of cash and speeding away in his motorcar.

Kissoon’s father reportedly came out of his house and saw the injured duo, resulting in an alarm being raised.

The injured men were rushed to a city hospital where they are presently being treated.

An investigation has been launched.

CDC receives training to map influx of migrants from Venezuela T he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) in partnership with United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and MapAction held a twoweek training for staff members who are now able to produce various Geographic information systems (GIS) related deliverables.

GIS is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes.

The training covered mapping for humanitarian response, data collection using smartphones

and Global Position Systems (GPS), updating the CDC’s caseload map using QGIS and several other areas.

According to a DPI release, Director General, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, stated that the CDC is embracing technology to improve efficiency.

With the use of GIS, mapping community-related hazards in projects such as the community-based disaster risk management system will become easier.

In relation to response concerning the influx of migrants from Venezuela, GIS will now enable staff to create maps which will highlight where

relief items were distributed, locations of migrants, and entry points. It will play a key role in monitoring the influx of migrants and where other stakeholders are currently working so as to avoid duplication.

A duty officer of the CDC related that mapping plays a key role in the activities of the CDC and with the training they would be able to carry out their duties more efficiently since GISbased maps and visualizations greatly assist in understanding situations when responding to disasters, providing relief and other functions of the CDC.

Guyana Govt boasts ...

from page 9

of Guyana student loan programme, vouchers for public school students, and the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) project.

Another reason was the non-transfer of monies to the Consolidated Fund, which was held, legally, by semi-autonomous agencies. A third claim was a procedural breach in the G$4 billion transferred to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and allegation of corruption.

The Opposition Leader charged that if these reasons could have justified the filing of that No-Confidence Motion, then there is greater justification, now, for the filing of the No-Confidence Motion.

He listed several things to support this contention, including the loss of 30,000 jobs; the decimation of the sugar sector; massive increases in the cost of living; and the imposition of hardships on the Guyanese people, via Government policies, such as G$60 billion in increased taxes per annum.

He also pointed to “unbelievable” levels of proven corruption, exposed via, not only the parliamentary Opposition, but also by the Auditor General’s Office and the Public Procurement Commission (PPC). The hiding of the US$18 mil-

lion signing bonus from ExxonMobil in a separate account, when the monies should have been transferred into the Consolidated Fund, was another example cited.

“Since this Government took office we have had taxes increased by 60 billion dollars per year, although they came in on a promise of lower taxes.

They came in on a promise of creating more jobs. We lost 30,000 jobs. Acts of corruption have been unbelievable,” Jagdeo had stated.

In addition, the Opposition Leader had stated that it was made clear at the recently held Local Government Elections (LGE), where the PPP/C, from all appearances, came out victorious with a 45,000 votes more than the Government. As such, Jagdeo noted that it is time for the coalition to be called out for what he says are its continued failures.

Jagdeo further added that the country is “drifting” because of a lack of vision of the APNU/AFC coalition Government. According to him, the NoConfidence Motion is intended to protect Guyanese and Guyana from the excessive borrowing, taxing and wasteful spending of the current Administration.

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he High Court has given the Attorney General’s Chambers two additional weeks to make submissions citing the legal arguments on which it opted to take over operations of the Berbice Bridge from the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI).

In October, BBCI announced it was facing bankruptcy and its main investor – the National Insurance Scheme – was given no choice but to push for a toll increase.

However, Government in a shocking move announced on November 5, 2018 that it would be taking control of the Bridge on November 12. The Bridge was financed through a public-private partnership.

The Bridge Company thereafter challenged the Government’s takeover.

Now that the matter is being heard, Justice Gino Persaud, who presided over in-chamber proceedings on Monday, outlined that the State must submit its legal arguments by December 28. This is according to BBCI representative, Senior Counsel (SC) Ralph Ramkarran, who told the press that both sides would return to court on January 21, 2019 to present arguments. Deputy Solicitor General (DSG) Debra Kumar appeared on behalf of AG Basil Williams.

The takeover was effected by Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson under Sections 4 (1) and 11 of the Berbice River Bridge Act whereby “in the interests of public safety”, he issued an Order declaring that the functions of the concessionaire to maintain and operate the Bridge “shall be exercised by the Government of Guyana as of 5th November 2018 until the date the Minister specifies by notice on the cessation of the threat to public safety”.

The Bridge Company, in its writ, petitioned the High Court to grant several orders to reverse the takeover and bar the Minister from carrying out his functions of maintaining and operating the Bridge.

The Company has sought “an order of certiorari quashing paragraph 2 of the Berbice River Bridge (Public Safety) Toll Order 2018 dated the 1st November 2018, No 42 of 2018, made by the first named defendant (Minister Patterson) under the Berbice River Bridge Act Cap 51:06 ordering that the functions of the concessionaire, namely the claimant (BBCI), to maintain and

AG Basil Williams

operate the Bridge shall be exercised by the Government”. The Bridge Company also wants to prevent Government or its agents from exercising the functions of maintaining and operating the Berbice Bridge. The BBCI has also requested an order of certiorari to quash paragraph 3 of the Minister’s Order, which states that the tolls levied and collected, and any exemptions, shall be the same and not increased.

The Company is asking the court too for an order to prohibit the Public Infrastructure Minister from stopping the increases in the tolls.

The BBCI wants the court to declare that Minister Patterson has no power under the Berbice River Bridge Act, or otherwise, to approve or reject an increase in tolls by the claimant.

It also wants the court to grant a declaration that this order by the Public Infrastructure Minister is unconstitutional, null, and void and of no effect in that it is tantamount to the compulsory taking of possession or compulsorily acquiring an interest in or right over the Berbice River Bridge, which is owned by the BBCI, without prompt and adequate compensation in violation of Article 142 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana.

The BBCI has also requested that an order directing the Public Infrastructure Minister to supply to the Bridge Company, as a body affected by his order, a statement setting out the findings on material questions of fact referring to the evidence or other material on which those findings were based and giving the reasons for the decision.

Miner charged for alleged rape of 9-yr-old G

eorgetown Magistrate Faith McGusty on Monday remanded 36-year-old Shawn Cornelius after he was charged for allegedly raping a nine-year-old while being intoxicated.

The accused, a miner, was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which stated that he, during the month

of September 2018, engaged in sexual penetration with a child under the age of 16.

Cornelius, who was unrepresented, was remanded to prison and was expected to make his next court appearance at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on January 7, 2019.

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Families facing “chaos, confusion and misdirection”

…Ram says in aftermath of estate closures in Guyana

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utspoken political commentator and Charted Accountant Christopher Ram has described some of the harrowing tales that have resulted from the closures of several estates across country which came via Government’s downsizing of the sugar industry owing the billions of dollars in subsidised allocations.

Speaking with Guyana Times International during an interview on Tuesday, the attorney opined that the current Administration should have implemented the industry’s overhaul in

a phased manner as opposed to the four closures within one year.

Wales was officially closed in December 2016 and the closures of East Demerara (Enmore), Skeldon and Rose Hall were finalised

by December 2017 although the latter three were reopened under limited operations via the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited’s (NICIL) Special Purpose Unit (SPU).

Since then, Ram has been facilitating a donation drive to the children of ex-workers of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

The items have included bicycles, haversacks and stationery supplies.

From his vantage point, the accountant imparted that the closures have facilitated social ills owing the fact the inhabitants of the various communities built their lives from their earnings in the sugar industry.

“The people need employment; they need support and it seems that they’re almost forgotten and its cynical, it’s callous and it’s cruel. The problem in those areas is that they’re almost single industry communities which have been built for decades and decades around sugar

The defunct Wales Estate was the first entity that was closed under the current Administration

and you can’t take away their lifeline, the very essence of the community and think that you have solved the problem and you’ve created some extremely costly social problems,” he observed.

Ram also pointed out a disturbing scene whereby he saw persons fishing in nearby drains during one of his many visits and it was explained that this was for their sustenance. “I saw people catching fish in drains and I asked an adult what that child doing in that drain they said; ‘What you think, they na got to eat?’ That was the answer. This is misery and yes we would sit in Georgetown and drink champagne,” Ram highlighted.

Speaking from a fiscal perspective, Ram pondered why the country’s budget deficit is higher in spite of the rationalisation objectives. He added that there was “no question” that some realignment was necessary in the sugar industry but said it not only should have been phased but well planned.

“What we have is chaos, confusion and misdirection, particularly led

by NICIL which has only added to the confusion,” he said.

Chartered Accountant and Attorney Christopher Ram

Ram outlined that based on the information he obtained, some of the children are inclined to miss classes as they lack school uniforms and lack basic meals. “Teachers are pooling money to give a meal to children. That child is a human being who is going to grow into an adult and what is he or she going to do?” he asked.

Prior to the closures, observers including the political Opposition were calling for social impact studies to be conducted beforehand. Now that Government went ahead with its cost-cutting measures, many of the workers have held out that they are finding great difficulty in attaining well-paying and consis-

tent employment. Some are of the view that these communities should be allocated subsidies for travel, text books, electricity and water owing to the vacuum that came to the fore when the industry was slashed.

More than that, workers at Wales, were waiting almost two years for their severance pay due to their refusal to take up work at the Uitvlugt Estate which is 22 miles away from their homes.

Though they were finally paid this month with interest, many parents said that in the interim they could not have afforded to send their children to school on a consistent basis. (Shemuel Fanfair)

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Policies in Budget 2019 will not address basic economic problems in Guyana – Jagdeo

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Minister of Finance Winston Jordan

ith the proverbial dust settling from Budget 2019, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has expressed his conviction that the policies announced in the budget would not solve some of Guyana’s basic woes, and thus the prognosis for the immediate future is bleak.

At his press conference on Monday, Jagdeo noted that when one strips away the rhetoric and propaganda from the budget speeches, questions have to be asked about what new jobs — besides those for consultants — are being created by the budget.

“Large sums are being set aside to pay a tiny cabal connected (at the party level); large sums of money…and there are a growing number of these consultants, and (some) are not there for their particular skill; they are there because of their connections to the PNC. And most of them are in the pensionable age,” he declared.

“No plan for job creation for ordinary Guyanese; no plan to address the growing cost of living, higher water rates, higher electricity rates, higher transportation costs, higher movement of commodities people buy,” Jagdeo said.

Besides the budget’s failure to address high energy costs, Jagdeo noted, most of the money is going towards building new prisons, when it comes to public security. The Opposition Leader expressed the view that growing crime rates are not being effectively addressed.

“In Agriculture, the budget remains stagnant; no major change for the agriculture sector. The miners didn’t see any difference. There were several new features in the budget that got people excited, but then they took away a significant benefit from people,” he said.

“A lot of my colleagues got excited about the capital gains tax: if you reinvest your capital gains within six months at another property, you don’t have to pay; but they did not realise the Minister took away the ownership exemption they had — that if you own something for 25 years, you are not capital gains exempt. All the older folk who own their buildings across Guyana would not have had to pay capital gains if they sold their property.

They now have to pay capital gains,” he explained.

Jagdeo noted that the outlook for 2019 is seemingly not any better than this year’s. He cited the high levels of borrowing, which he noted can have repercussions for the private sector. He

also noted that these debts will become due in just a few years.

This is certainly true for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) G$30 billion bond negotiated by the Special Purpose Unit, for which repayments are scheduled to begin in May of next year.

Recommendations

Then there are the recommendations the Opposition had made. In an advertisement titled ‘Budget 2019, Guyanese expect better’, the PPP listed additional measures Government should announce in its budget.

According to Jagdeo, none was taken on board by the Government.

“The Minister refused to address any of the nearly 30 concerns that we raised in a public ad. We didn’t just want to do it in the quiet of the Ministry compound, we raised 30 issues; none of those have been addressed. So when you take away the spin, next year will be as bad as this one,” Jagdeo observed.

The party had wanted, among other things, the reversal of the ban on vehicles over eight years old; reversal of the ban on importation of used tyres; reversal on increases in water rates.

The party also called for reversal of the 35 per cent incremental increases on University of Guyana tuition fees, as well as reversals of VAT on local products in the forestry sector, and the tax on materials and supplies in the fisheries sector.

Government had announced that tax free salary increases by up to seven per cent would be implemented. The disciplined services were to be included in this sum. However, the PPP urged the Government to restore the annual one-month tax free salary bonus it previously gave the disciplined services.

It also called for the restoration of cash grants to public school children from nursery to secondary, and for it to be increased to G$20,000; as well as the single parent assistance programme, complete with vouchers. In addition, it recommended the restoration of electricity and water subsidies to pensioners, and the national housing programme.

The party had also urged Government to take heed of its own consultant, Norconsult, and to recommence the Amaila Falls Hydro Project. In addition, it recommended Government initiate new infrastructure projects, and not just complete those that were started under the former PPP administration.

Essequibo man found dead after inviting stranger for ‘holiday drink’

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he lifeless body of excavator operator Sherwin Melville of Capoey Lake, Essequibo Coast, has been found in his home with his throat slit.

A relative of the 23-year-old father of one went to check on him on Monday at about 5:00h, and discovered the body in a pool of blood.

Based on reports received, Melville had had a “holiday drink” for close friends and relatives at his home on Sunday evening. Maria Fredericks, the dead man’s mother-in-law, who was at the crime scene on Monday, told Guyana Times International that during the get-together, Melville had left home to purchase cigarettes at a nearby shop, and had returned with a young man. When enquiries were made regarding the stranger, Melville had explained that he had invited this stranger to his house to take a “holiday drink”.

Melville’s wife had protested his bringing home strangers in light of the crimes that are occurring around the country. The argument had escalated, and the woman and her 2-month-old child had left the home, reportedly to spend the night at her mother’s place.

Thus on Monday morning a relative had gone to the young man’s home, and it was then that his body was discovered lying face down in the house.

She immediately raised an alarm and the Police were summoned. As investigators turned over the corpse, a gaping wound was observed at the man’s throat.

The stranger with whom he was last seen imbibing has since disappeared.

Information reaching the relatives suggested that this “stranger” is originally from North West District (NWD) but works on a ship owned by a businessman in Wakenaam, Essequibo River.

Melville’s mother-in-law tearfully related that the young man had always treated her with respect and had always taken care of her like his own

Dead: Sherwin Melville

mother. The woman said she is from Bartica in Region Seven, and her sonin-law used to make sure she is comfortable.

Melville used to work in the interior and would normally come out on major holidays to spend time with his family.

Another relative said Melville had been in the process of constructing his home, which had been a dream of his.

With his death, the relative posited, all plans in this respect would have to be put on hold, since his wife is in no financial position to complete same.

The Police, meanwhile, are on the hunt for the young man whom Melville had taken home to have a “holiday drink”. It is not certain whether anything is missing from the dead man’s makeshift home.

His body is at the Suddie Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem.

Remapping of Guyana to begin in 2019 C ommissioner of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), Trevor Benn, at the Commission’s annual end-of-year press briefing on Monday said plans are in place to begin remapping the country. According to Benn, the last time Guyana was mapped was in the late 1960s.

“We will begin work on this, this year, starting with Region One. This is coming at a cost of over G$200 million,” he told media operatives.

Additionally, Benn said the Commission has received estimates for the overall remapping of the country. According to him, estimates from international suppliers have been received and range from “£20 million (GY$5,277,906,928.82) to US$79 million (GY$16,509,420,000)”.

The Commissioner said the importance of good base maps and generally updated maps cannot be overstated. He highlighted that work has commenced on the development of the land parcel database for Regions Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) with the expectation that this will be taken “across the rest of the

Trevor Benn

regions in the coming years.”

“This is an important aspect in the management of all lands in Guyana since ultimately, a completed land information system enables the generation of accurate and important land statistics,” Benn explained.

He added that this would aid data-driven development decisions and increase the efficiency in land management. The land parcel database involves geo-referencing of survey plans to determine which areas have been surveyed, which have not and which are vacant.

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Rowan jackup to drill for CGX offshore Guyana

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anadian oil and gas exploration company CGX has been awarded the Rowan jackup Ralph Coffman, a one-well contract offshore Guyana.

The contract has an estimated duration of 60 days.

According to Offshore, it is expected to start in second quarter of 2019.

The Ralph Coffman, a 240C Class harsh environment jackup rig, is currently under contract with GulfSlope Energy in the Gulf of Mexico through its current well, which is estimated to conclude in mid-January 2019.

In August, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had announced that CGX was set to commence drilling on the Corentyne block as early as the end of this year.

The oil company has already appointed a drilling engineer, who will be in charge of designing its offshore exploration well on the Corentyne

Block offshore Guyana.

According to Trotman, the Government is excited about the project.

Also in August, CGX announced its next exploration well with an Indigenous naming and blessing ceremony by the historic Aleluya Indigenous Group.

The well named “Utakwaaka” is expected to be drilled in November 2019 in the company’s Corentyne Block offshore Guyana.

CGX Executive Chairman, Professor Suresh Narine had said that giving the well an Indigenous name was a departure from the norm in the oil industry.

In late 2017, CGX had said that as part of the renegotiation of its contract with the Government of Guyana, it would relinquish to the Government 25 per cent of the acreage of both the Corentyne and Demerara blocks.

The new work commit-

ments include drilling an exploration well on the Corentyne Block by November 27, 2019; acquiring additional seismic or conducting seismic reprocessing by November 27, 2020; drilling an exploration well by November 27, 2022 in the Demerara Block; completing any additional data processing and planning, and securing all regulatory approvals for the drilling of an exploration well by February 12, 2020; drilling an exploration well by February 12, 2021, and another by February 12, 2023 in the Berbice Block; completing a geochemical survey of a minimum area of 120 square kilometres and commencing a seismic programme defined by the aforementioned geochemical survey by February 12, 2020; completing the seismic programme and completing all processing and interpretation of data by August 12, 2021; and drilling an exploration well by February 12, 2023.

Trinidad prisons chief: Cellphones a lucrative business in jail (Trinidad Guardian)

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l­le­gal cell­phones in T&T’s pris­ons have be­come a lu­ cra­tive busi­ness.

The com­ ment came from Prison Com­mis­sion­er Ger­ard Wil­son yes­ter­day as he spoke in his first in a se­ries of “Con­ ver­sa­tions with the Com­mis­ sion­ er” which was streamed live on Face­book.

The con­ver­sa­tion was aimed to in­ ter­ act with mem­ bers of the pub­ lic who post­ ed ques­tions or con­cerns they may have on the T&T Pris­ons Ser­vice and its of­fi­cers.

Wil­son ad­mit­ted that the Prison Ser­vice has been work­ ing to re-en­gi­neer it­self.

He said in 2019 the Prison Ser­vice will roll out a cus­tomer ser­vice pro­gramme to en­sure that fam­i­lies of in­mates have a pleas­ant vis­it.

“So they (in­mates) will be pro­vid­ed with an ac­count and they would be able to re­quest from the of­fic­ ers what items they need.”

Asked what strate­ gies he would ini­ ti­ ate to re­ duce cor­ rup­tion and to weed out cor­ rupt prison of­fi­cers, Wil­son said, “With­ in re­ cent times they have been suc­ cess­ ful in ar­rest­ing quite a few of­fi­cers and vis­i­tors who come to the vis­it­ing room.”

In ad­di­tion to in­creas­ing

Prison Commissioner Gerard Wilson

vig­i­lance, Wil­son said they now work with snif­fer dogs to get il­le­gal items out.

He said, “We have been able to crack what we may call more or less a drug load of ac­ tiv­i­ties. We will mon­i­tor of­ fi­cers who come in­to that net be­cause we have been look­ing at some of the of­fi­cers. We will have that sur­veil­lance to en­ sure that when they come in­ to the sys­tem with these drugs that we would be able to hold them.”

He said the con­fig­u­ra­tion of the prison dorms makes it dif­fi­cult to ac­cess some of the il­lic­it items or con­tra­band brought in­to the pris­ons.

“One of the ways to deal with it is to have the dor­mi­to­ ries out­side. But if we can re­ con­fig­ure how the dor­mi­to­ries

are placed that should help a lot in how we fight this scourge of traf­fick­ing and con­tra­band in the prison ser­vice,” he said.

Wil­ son al­ so touched on the is­sue of il­le­gal cell­phones mak­ing its way in­to the hands of in­mates, which he said, was a prob­lem world­wide.

He said peo­ple on the out­ side come in­to the prison with the phones which he de­scribed as a lu­cra­tive busi­ness.

He added: “So they en­cour­ aged and co­erced of­fic­ ers who may not be as prin­ ci­ pled as oth­ ers to bring in these con­ tra­band items.”

As for threats made to of­ fi­cers, Wil­son said they have since es­ tab­ lished a threat analy­sis unit.

Threats that are re­port­ed, Wil­son said are as­sessed.

“Of­fi­cers get threat­ened on a dai­ly ba­sis. All threats are tak­en se­ri­ous­ly. De­pend­ing on the threat lev­els the pris­ ons will al­so im­ple­ment things that would as­sist the of­fi­cer.

We don’t sit idly by and al­low of­fic­ ers to be threat­ened and not in­ter­vene.”

Stat­ ing that “we live in treach­er­ous times, “Wil­son plead­ed with his of­fi­cers to look af­ter their per­son­al safe­ ty.

“Know where you go. You have to know the com­pa­ny you keep,” he said.

Well done: Detective who helped solve 6 murders named Guyana’s 2018 ‘Best Cop’

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GPF 2018 Best Cop Detective Sergeant Rodwell Sarabo with Police Commissioner Leslie James

he Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) calendar of events for 2018 winded down on Wednesday with its annual Christmas Awards Ceremony, during which some G$18.6 million was expended to reward ranks and other stakeholders for their outstanding performances throughout the year.

Taking the top prize of Best Cop this year was Detective Sergeant Rodwell Sarabo, who led the team that tracked down and dismantled the infamous carjacking network earlier this year after the gang terrorised citizens across the country for more than a year.

He also led investigations into and solved six murders this year, apart from taking part in several other high-profile cases in A Division (GeorgetownEast Bank Demerara).

Prior to his transfer to the Division’s CID Office in 2016, Sarabo was one of the leading detectives in the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters. He has spent some 13 years in that Department.

In his remarks, Sergeant Sarabo noted that copping this award is a dream come through but not without sacrifices in the process.

“I won’t stand here and tell you that becoming the Force’s Best Cop is not one of my dreams; it was. Not only did I work hard, I give up my time, my peace and my sleep for it…

If you want something, you have to work very hard to get it and achieve it. Not because you’re doing something means you’re getting something done ‘cause you can run in one place all day but not go anywhere so don’t confuse movements with progress,” he asserted.

Sarabo went on to urge his colleagues in the Force to continue to work hard so that one day, they too can receive such

rewards.

“I believe that all of us were born with a purpose, something we’re supposed to do…

So continue to work hard,” he stated. Moreover, to the citizens, Sarabo posited that some ranks often make mistakes that cause the public to lose trust in the Force. To this end, he reassured that there are officers who remain dedicated to their jobs and committed to serving the country.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, the Best Cop was rewarded with a trophy and G$250,000 from the Police Force. Sarabo was also awarded a plaque and G$100,000 for best rank in the Fore’s CID. In addition, he further received a free trip for two to Aruba and to Kaieteur Falls along with a trip to Arrow Point Nature Resort for him and his family, compliments of Roraima Airways.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Keith Conway, also of A Division, was awarded runner-up Best Cop, receiving a trophy and G$200,000 cash. Only last week, he was named Divisional Best Cop. Wednesday’s award ceremony also saw, in addition to Divisional Best Cops, ranks from the various Divisions being rewarded for excellent work done – whether in groups or individually. The Force also recognised ranks who performed exceptionally well over the past year in sporting activities locally, regionally and internationally.

Furthermore, Rural Constables and members of the various Community Policing Group (CPG) branches were also recognised for their contributions in helping to maintain law and order within communities.

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Plot afoot to disrupt noconfidence vote against Govt …says Guyana’s Opposition Leader

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is calling for the authorities and the National Assembly to implement measures that will protect Members of Parliament and ensure that Friday’s no-confidence vote can go forward unhindered.

Jagdeo made this call during a press conference on Monday at his Church Street, Georgetown office.

The Opposition Leader expressed fears that there may be attempts to disrupt the vote by persons in the gallery.

According to Jagdeo, it only takes one crossover vote or two abstentions from the Government side for them to win. He said that because of this precarious margin and certain information his party has received, they were apprehensive.

“We are aware that they plan to install people in the galleries and should someone (from Government) vote in favour of the no-confidence motion, from the galleries they will … disrupt the vote. We’ve heard that should [that] fail, some of their MPs will disrupt the vote.”

Jagdeo theorised that they may be hoping that should the vote be disrupted, the vote will be invalidated. He made it clear that his party would notify Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland.

“We will bring this to the attention of the Speaker. We will also insist, like what happens in many parts of the world, once someone votes in favour of the no-confidence motion, the Government falls. If you have 32 votes on our side, and one of their Members of Parliament vote in favour, the mathematics changes and it’s 33 in favour and 32 remaining votes.

“When the Clerk of the National Assembly calls the names of the Members of Parliament and should one of their members vote (in favour), no matter what happens afterwards, the vote is passed … because if you allow disruptions, you can never have (a non-contentious vote).

So, if the Speaker allows (the vote to be invalidated), we will deem that an act of collusion.”

Jagdeo expressed hope that the diplomatic community would bear witness to the proceedings, whichever way the vote turned out. Noting that the proceedings were being recorded, he warned that attempts to disrupt the vote would be publicised

around the world. Jagdeo also spoke of threats and related that they would write to the Commissioner of Police.

“I know for sure, apart from the occasional threats to our MPs passed off in a jocular manner, so they can always claim it was done in jest. But these threats are pregnant in the parliamentary atmosphere. We know for sure the threats are even more ominous and take on real form.”

That being said, Jagdeo also extended an olive branch. In light of the December 21 date for the motion falling close to Christmas, Jagdeo had no objections to the National Assembly delaying the vote to early January.

No confidence

Jagdeo had first announced the no-confidence motion on November 15, on the heels of devastating losses in the Local Government Elections (LGE) for the coalition Government.

The next day, the scheduled sitting of the National Assembly was abruptly cancelled at Government’s request and the Opposition turned up to an empty chamber. At the half-empty Parliament Chambers, Jagdeo reiterated some of his expectations regarding the motion.

In a subsequent advertisement, the PPP went into further detail on its reasons for filing the motion, and the concrete reasons for the people’s rejection of the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led coalition. It pointed to the thousands of jobs that have been lost as a result of the closure of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) estates.

In addition, the Party referred to the various scandals that have erupted under the Administration.

They include the single sourcing of the feasibility contract for the new Demerara River crossing, the single sourcing of a drug bond and the single sourcing of drug procurement contracts.

The Party noted the numerous breaches of fiscal laws flagged by the Audit Office of Guyana in its reports, as well as the lack of accountability in the D’Urban Park Project, something even the Auditor General had to launch a special probe into. The depletion of

Guyana’s gold and foreign reserves was also highlighted.

Court settlements since the coalition Government took office were also zeroed in on by the Party.

The Attorney General’s Chambers has come under much criticism for not being able to secure successes in several cases against the State.

Since taking office, in addition to losing cases, Government has opted to enter into out-of-court settlements. These settlements include sums to the tune of US$5.7 million, $226 million and $3.8 billion.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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US diplomat calls on Venezuela to respect Geneva treaty Terry Steers Gonzalez

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he Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) held its annual dinner at the Anna Regina Town Hall on Saturday Evening where US Charge d’Affaires and Ambassador (acting) Terry Steers Gonzalez called on Venezuela to respect the treaty signed in Geneva on February 17, 1966 in resolving the Guyana/ Venezuela Border controversy.

In addition, he said with the discovery of oil, Guyana can soon become an oil-rich nation, while reiterating that if the industry is not monitored as it should, it can be a failure.

He warned that politicians should not get involved and the Government should have a Natural Resource Fund, which must be transparent, enviable and nonpartisan and should be managed by an independent body.

The US Charge d’Affaires noted that there will be an imaginable amount of revenue coming into Guyana and with good financial management, Guyana can become an oil-rich state and ultimately transform the country.

Meanwhile, ECCI President Suean Seewnarayan also echoed the call for a wellplanned and organised oil industry.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Devanand Randatt said after a series of meetings with the regional heads of the security forces – Police, Army and fire – he was assured of a peaceful and crime-free holiday season.

Furthermore, Randatt told the gathering that after meeting with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), he was also told that there will be a stable flow of electricity during the season.

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Fly Jamaica passengers express frustration over long-wait for refunds

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passenger who was scheduled to leave Guyana’s shores on December 11, 2018 after booking his flight five months in advance with Fly Jamaica, has expressed frustration at the airline for “dragging its feet” in relation to refunding passengers their monies.

Vikask Ramnarine, who was destined for JFK airport, New York, said that he was only informed of the cancellation of the flight when he made calls to the airline and was told to return eight weeks later for a full refund of his airfare.

“On Thursday and Friday my relatives told me to call just to make sure that the flight is on, since all these things going on with that particular airline, so I did and I was told by the staff that everything is ok and I am schedule to fly on the same day.”

“On Saturday and Sunday I called back only to be told that the flight has been cancelled, but still no one called to say anything”, Ramnarine related.

Ramnarine noted that he decided to visit the company’s Carmichael Street office to express his dissatisfaction, only to be told by the staff that they “don’t have any arrangements in place” and nothing could be done.

“I understand that the process to refund customers will take time but I expected this period be at least 3 days since this was not our fault and it’s very unfair that we have to wait 6-8 Weeks for our money to be returned to us. Also taking into consideration the airline held this money since August 2018 and they do not have any service to provide, no instant refund”.

According to him the company owes him a total of US$720 which is equivalent to GYD$144,000.

Recently, a source close to the Airline had refuted the claims of inconvenienced and frustrated passengers who complain of not being refunded their tickets’ cost.

The representative who spoke with Guyana Times International said, “All the flights that were cancelled or (passengers who) were affected are having a total refund. If you want to cancel from us because you need to book another carrier, I am not sure how they are gonna go about doing that, but they are free to come into the office and have that clarification done with accounting or they can call the local number and have clearer information as to how we are going about that.”

She said that in addition to the local office, Fly Jamaica also has international offices in the United States where queries can be made.

Although the sale of tickets has been put on hold, the source related that operations are expected to resume in January.

Just recently, a disgruntled passenger expressed his frustration in a letter to this newspaper explaining, “I had purchased a ticket before the incident to travel to Guyana on December 21 and return to Toronto in January 2019. I contacted Fly Jamaica to find out if my flight would be cancelled and if I could get a refund. They claimed that the flight will not be cancelled, and, therefore, I will not be getting a refund.”

Bank of Baroda to close more branches by June

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Bank of Baroda, Georgetown

ince the recent announcement from the Bank of Baroda that it will be pulling-out from Guyana’s shores, the India-based, State-owned entity is mounting a similar move in two other countries: neighbouring Caribbean nation Trinidad & Tobago and Ghana, a West African country. In a report by Economic Times on Monday, it was outlined that the institution will close the three of 165 branches by June 2019. As per a regulatory filing, it stated that the closures will “increase in efficiency and profitability of the overseas offices”.

The international media agency reported that the branches in the three countries only contribute less than one percentage to Baroda’s overall earnings. Guyana revenue was listed as 26,380,000 Rupees (US$ 363,000); while Trinidad & Tobago’s was 23,900,000 Rupees (US $334,000).

Meanwhile, Ghana’s revenue at the bank was 75,000,000 Rupees–just over US $1 million. The Economic Times noted that the bank did not specify the period in which the revenue was generated.

On December 7, it was reported that the Bank of Baroda, had taken steps to sell its operations here.

According to the Financial Express, the banking institution is looking to divest its entire 100 per cent stake in its Bank of Baroda Guyana Inc subsidiary through investment bankers.

The bank is now seeking bids from investment bankers to help find a buyer. It has asked for technical and financial proposals by the end of this year.

The bank’s pull-out was the subject of much expressed worry by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) wherein it contended that the Bank of Baroda’s exit indicated a lack of confidence in Guyana’s economy. Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall recently told the National Assembly that commercial banks are a well-known barometer by which one can judge an economy’s performance and therefore urged the country not to turn a blind eye when banks are suddenly packing up shop and leaving.

However, Finance Minister Winston Jordan contended otherwise, having stated that the impending pull-out from the local market was known to the Government. He said that having to deal with FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) and the AML (Anti Money Laundering) laws; the international institutions do not consider our territories to be profitable anymore.

The move by the Indian bank came just one week after the Canadian-based Scotiabank announced that it has signed an agreement to sell its banking operations in Guyana and eight other Caribbean nations to Republic Financial Holdings Ltd, a deal worth some US$123 million.

15 families to receive houses under CH&PA housing initiative

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n a matter of weeks, fifteen Lindeners will be owners of their own homes as contractors are performing finishing touches on the housing units that were built by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

The 15 houses are the first set of 60 two-bedroom flat and elevated houses, located in Phase Three, Amelia’s Ward.

The project is being done in four batches with each group expected to take approximately 120 days to complete.

Contractor Michael Bonds from Michael Bonds Construction which was awarded a contract to complete three of the houses, described the process as “very smooth,” with no hiccups from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

“The process was very smooth, even with payments. Our payment was on time and everything was

done accordingly and with high expectations,” Bond relayed.

Other contractors noted that the entire project created a positive spin-off since over 80 Lindeners were employed by the four contractors, while the busy environment also attracted hucksters and food and beverage vendors.

Construction of these housing units commenced after access roads, electricity and water supplies were made available in the area.

Thirty of the 60 will be flat concrete houses which will cost G$5.3 million and the other 30 will be concrete houses on stilts. These will cost G$6.3 million. Some G$100, 000 of those respective costs will go towards paying for the land.

Owners had to be prequalified at commercial banks for the units and priority was given to youths and Government workers.

Two such persons are Registered Nurse Abigail Thompson and Nigel Newton, a mechanical engineer employed by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

Thompson told the media that she is a mother of two and applied eight months prior to pre-qualifying. “Don’t give up, apply once you reach the age, you might be selected.

It makes me feel honoured to be selected today, to own my own home soon,” she said as she encouraged other youths to do the same.

In 2019, CH&PA will be commencing similar construction in the Wisroc Scheme.

The process of getting the lands transferred from the Wisroc Housing Cooperation via the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission to the CH&PA is currently underway.

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NEW GPC INC successfully G$424.1M allocated for completes US FDA Audit oil and gas preparations …millions set aside for capacity building, vehicles and scholarships

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NEW GPC INC. is the Caribbean’s oldest and largest manufacturer of pharmaceuticals and O.T.C drugs. The company’s product line quickly expanded to include products such as Limacol and Ferrol which were immediate successes on both local and international markets.

EW GPC INC recently successfully completed the United States (US) Food and Drug and Administration (FDA) Audit which will enable the local manufacturing company to export its products to that country.

In a release on Saturday, the company detailed that the audit is extremely rigorous in its inspections, but compliance was necessary for it, as well as any other company, to export its products to the USA. “NEW GPC operates a Quality Management System (QMS) which is guided by GMP/USP/BP and encompasses all aspects of the company’s operations. The company embraces the idea of continuous improvement in all its products and operations.

Aside from the laboratories and other crucial infrastructure, the QMS comprise of SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures), testing, evaluation, and validation protocols throughout the organisation,” the company said.

According to the NEW GPC, to op-

erate such systems the company has retained a highly qualified team which operates at all levels and is duly empowered to execute is duties.

It further stated that quality management begins with the choice of the supplier for inputs and ends with positive customer feedback, the latter which also informs quality management in a systematic manner.

In addition to the USA licence, the company is also licensed by the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) which is responsible for conducting its own audits.

In January 2017 the company was pre-qualified by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to supply its products. NEW GPC currently exports its products to the USA, Canada, UK, South America and the Caribbean.

The above is testimony to NEW GPC’s commitment to manufacturing products of the highest quality which meet local and international standards.

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burning question has been what preparations Government would make for oil and gas in its penultimate budget? It turns out a total of G$333.2 million in capital funds has been allocated by the Government for petroleum and energy management.

The 2019 Budget estimates also detail that current expenditure, which among other things will go towards employment and other recurrent costs, was G$90.9 million. Specifically, wages and salaries are expected to cost the Treasury G$20.5 million.

According to the budget estimates, however, only three positions are currently filled in the Department of Energy. In addition, the estimates show that all these employees are employed on a contractual basis.

G$43.3 million is earmarked for ‘other goods and services purchased’.

Under this heading, G$30.3 million will be spent on security services, while G$5 million will be spent on training that includes scholarships. Under a heading named ‘other’, a sum of G$12 million is earmarked.

Meanwhile, G$100 million is earmarked for building expenses; G$200 million for institutional support for the oil and gas sector; G$28 million for purchasing vehicles and the remainder for the purchase of furniture and equipment.

Preparation for oil

With little over a year to go before first oil, Government has been criticised for the slow pace of preparation.

For instance, critical measures like a national oil spill strategy; a constitutional agency to regulate the sector; a national oil company, a local content continued on page 24

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Chase Green should not sit on Finance Committee – former auditor

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he election of a new Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to continue the proceedings at City Hall has created a stir of opinions about former members securing new positions, despite being under scrutiny for grave financial mismanagement during the recently concluded Commission of Inquiry (CoI).

Among those individuals is the outgoing Mayor Patricia Chase Green and according to former Presidential Advisor, Ramon Gaskin, who had previously audited the M&CC, judging from the outgoing Mayor’s “tainted” reputation, she should not be on the Counncil’s Finance Committee.

Gaskin noted that those who were placed under the spotlight for gross mismanagement should not have been offered and accepted any position until the Local Government Commission (LGC) makes a pronouncement on the CoI report.

Chase Green was recently elected to serve as the Vice Chairwoman of the Finance Committee of the Council. Gaskin

Patricia Chase Green

added that Chase Green along with the embattled Town Clerk Royston King, and all other staffers who were named in the CoI are innocent until proven guilty by the LGC. “I think she cannot avoid the suspicion of the people that [everything] was financially improper. She was part and parcel of all of that with Mr King and some other people. For that reason, she should not have been on the Council and

we will have to see what the Local Government Commission thinks about the report and how much of it will go to the Police to prosecute.

Until that is done, none of them should present themselves for leadership. I believe they’re all tainted but innocent until proven guilty,” Gaskin added.

The eligibility of senior officials to continue working at the Council was also questioned since Chairman of the

CoI, retired Justice Cecil Kennard would have made some harsh pronouncements about the reality of management of City Hall.

Recommendation

Following the CoI, retired Justice Kennard made a list of recommendations and among them he called on the LGC to enforce disciplinary measures against senior staffers of the Council, with the Town Clerk leading for gross misconduct.

Gaskin maintained that City Hall continues to emit signals of incompetence and corruption. Adding to that, the preliminary findings of the report undoubtedly made it clear the need for new persons to fill the shoes of Councillors and members of the Finance Committee.

According to Justice Kennard, evidence presented before the Commission gestured the outgoing Mayor and Town Clerk were not working collectively to meet the needs of the city.

“I’m convinced that the Town Clerk and the Mayor are not working in the best interest of the city…To sum it all, most of the woes of the City Council have been due to neglect and mismanagement by the top officers of the Council,” Kennard was quoted as saying during his presentation to the LGC. As it relates to the new Mayor, Ubraj Narine, Gaskin informed that citizens are checking to determine what new measures will be implemented to eliminate the “corruption”, given that obligations of

Georgetown should be wholly fulfilled. He also acknowledged the fact that Narine, who will commence duties from January 1, 2019, hasn’t been very forthcoming in disclosing his strategy and should understand his commitments.

“I will have to see what is his programme to deal with the mess that’s in the city there; the financial problems which City Hall, the corruption, the overstaffing, all these things. I would like to hear how he plans to go about it and how he plans to go about his work. He hasn’t spoken much about it and I would like to hear about him. He has an obligation to the people of this city,” the former Presidential Advisor stated.

Narine, who represents Constituency One, secured 21 votes in his favour and was elected accordingly as the Mayor. The Council elected seven persons to charge the Finance Committee, comprising Patricia Chase Green, Yvonne Ferguson, Ivelaw Henry, Oscar Clarke, Trichia Richards, Yvonne Ferguson and Bisham Kuppen.

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Former Agri Minister says more sugar workers could be placed on the breadline in 2019

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Dr Leslie Ramsammy

ith the recent announcement by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) that more sugar estate workers could lose their jobs soon, former Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy is of the strong opinion that every sugar worker that remains employed within the industry could lose their job.

He said the coalition Government’s plan for the sugar industry is unclear, aside from the plans to continuing downsizing.

“The injustice continues. It proves that every sugar worker with a job is at risk under this Government.

They must have sleepless nights wondering if the next day will be the last day for their jobs,” he said.

GAWU had revealed that the workers which face dismissal are those that were retained following the closures of the Wales, Skeldon, Rose Hall and East Demerara estates to maintain skeleton operations at the factories. These workers were involved mainly in security, drainage and irrigation and power house operations.

The Union said that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) had indicated that it was always its intention to have the workers terminated and it is now giving effect to its intent.

But Dr Ramsammy questioned whether any arrangements are in place for their severance, adding that there are still hundreds of Wales’s workers awaiting severance, even after the recent payments. “Are these newly unemployed workers to be subjected to the injustice of delayed severance payments?”

The former Minister told Guyana Times International on Sunday that the recent laying off of more workers proves the associated GuySuCo services such as residential drainage and irrigation services are slowly being abandoned in the former sugar estates.

“Who will take up the responsibility? The NDCs [Neighbourhood Democratic Councils)] or the RDCs [Regional Democratic Councils] or the NDIA [National Drainage and Irrigation Authority]?” he questioned.

According to Dr Ramsammy, none of these arrangements were in place before the closure was made. He reminded that the expenses of GuySuCo included these non-sugar expenses. But he argued that with or without sugar, these expenses must be incurred and

part of the subsidy for GuySuCo included this.

“Now Budget 2019 has been passed and no provisions were made for these expenses. And with the laying off of these workers, GuySuCo is now also abandoning these services,” the former minister pointed out.

Total betrayal

Further, he said the actions of the coalition Government towards these workers and the sugar industry as a whole amounts to total betrayal. While Government has announced that workers are to be given a bonus for reaching the 2018 target of 103,000 tons, he reminded that this is a right and part of the sugar agreement for more than 50 years.

“Workers are entitled to an Annual Production Incentive (API) each year. In 2015 it was reduced.

In 2016 and 2017 workers were denied any API on the basis that they did not reach target,” he recalled.

However, he said the bonus was never based only on reaching the target. Workers always were entitled to a bonus based on annual production of a day’s pay for a certain amount of tonnage for the year. Thus, at the end of the year they got one or more days pay based on annual production, not only on reaching target.

“This year if we believe the Government, the workers will get the bonus because they reached the target. The question is what is the bonus based on? How many tons of sugar will equal a day’s pay?” he further questioned.

But more worrying, Dr Ramsammy believes that “the assault on the workers by Government” is not over. He feels the country could see even more workers laid off in 2019, adding to the already hundreds that were severed.

Finally, the former Agriculture Minister recalled Vice President and Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan saying that Government sees sugar workers as “PPP people”. “The action of this Government against sugar workers means that APNU/AFC has deliberately sought ways to remove from the industry and to ensure they create a pathway for what Volda Lawrence describes as “PNC people.”

Dr Ramsammy said he can therefore conclude that “political vendetta” has led to the closure and dismissal of sugar workers.

Guyana Govt to establish tobacco council in 2019 S erious steps will be taken to prosecute individuals and businesses that do not adhere to the laws related to the Tobacco Control Bill which sets out tough fines for violators.

Health Minister Volda Lawrence has announced that the Government is currently fine-tuning the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the establishment of a Tobacco Council in Guyana.

The Minister said the document is still being crafted but is expected to be presented to Cabinet for approval before the end of this year. The Council could be established as soon as January 2019.

Lawrence confirmed that no one has been charged since the bill became law in July 2017. However, the Ministry has started a campaign aimed at educating persons on the legislation.

Once the Ministry’s public awareness campaign comes to an end, a timeframe will be set in which to begin to institute penalties for the legislation through the Council.

The Bill provides for the adoption and implementation of tobacco-control policies in accordance with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

The legislation serves as the legal regulator for administration, inspection and enforcement, while providing legislative protection from exposure to second-hand smoke by eliminating public smoking.

The new law bans smoking at all indoor workplaces and certain outdoor places, such as in any waiting area or queue in a public place, including but not limited to, any public transport stop, bus stand or bus park. It also clampdowns on advertising campaigns launched by any tobacco company.

Penalties in the form of fines and prison sentences for certain transgressions are also included.

These range from a fine of G$200,000 for persons who breach the new regulations, along with six months imprisonment, to fines for business entities of up to G$9 million.

Former Health Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy under whose leadership the first draft of this Bill was created has said that tobacco is the world’s greatest extra-judicial killer. The United Nations (UN) has agreed on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for a better world by 2030.

With the SDGs, there is specific recognition of the importance of the NCDs, Dr Ramsammy said, while noting that there is also recognition that tobacco is a killer and globally, there is need for collective action to reduce and eliminate the negative impacts of tobacco.

“Now that the SDG has embraced the goals of the FCTC, it is time we are more robust in our action to stop big tobacco. In this regards, we must strictly enforce our agreements in the FCTC to increase taxes on tobacco. Research has shown clearly that increased taxes do reduce tobacco use,” he

Health Minister Volda Lawrence

added.

Increased challenges

Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Representative, Dr William Adu-Krow has said 80 per cent of premature deaths from tobacco occur in low or middle-income countries, like Guyana, which face increased challenges to achieving their development goals.

Dr Adu-Krow said in 2017, 15.4 per cent of the adult population were smokers of tobacco, with 26.6 per cent of the total smokers being men and 3.3 per cent being women in Guyana.

The Global Youth Tobacco Survey that was conducted in 2015 among youths between the ages of 13 and 15 found that 14.8 per cent of students – 19 per cent boys and 10.4 per cent of girls – are users of tobacco products.

Dr Adu-Krow has also stated that tobacco use is a threat to individuals, regardless of their gender, age and ethnicity and even their cultural or educational background.

One in 10 deaths around the world is caused by smoking, according to a major new study that shows the tobacco epidemic is far from over and the threat to lives is spreading across the globe.

There were nearly one billion smokers in 2015, in spite of tobacco control policies having been adopted by many countries. That number is expected to rise as the world’s population expands.

One in every four men is a smoker and one in 20 women. Their lives are likely to be cut short – smoking is the second biggest risk factor for early death and disability after high blood pressure.

Tobacco is responsible for seven million deaths per year worldwide. This includes 900,000 persons who die from diseases related to exposure to tobacco smoke. If current trends continue, tobacco use will kill 10 million people per year by 2020.

G$424.1M allocated for... policy and a Sovereign Wealth Fund are either still in the planning stages or have only been discussed.

This does not include several worrying fiscal indicators, which have caused audit firm Ram and McRae to project reduced earnings from first oil for Guyana if these trends are allowed to continue.

One such trend is the Government’s fiscal deficit, a case where monies are sourced more from loans than from revenue.

According to the firm in its Budget focus, Guyana risks less money going towards the Natural Resources Fund and more going towards making up for the deficit.

“The danger of deficit financing is that all things being equal, oil revenues for the early years after first oil will simply go to

bridging the deficit and little left for investments and savings,” the firm noted.

At a recent event hosted by the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had warned that earnings from oil and gas in the first few years may fall short of the “rosy picture” being painted by the Government.

He had even posited that Government may not even get the chance to use the earnings from oil revenues as they see fit, on account of the debt racked up from domestic borrowing.

Soon after this, however, Minister of State Joseph Harmon was quoted disputing this prognosis.

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s a child, one of the things that scared me the most but I also looked forward to was the masqueraders visiting our home on Christmas Eve night, beating their makeshift drums and dancing for our entertainment and their cash incentive.

What made these masqueraders scary was their attire as well as their masks or ‘facies’, as we called them.

A

Slaves, who were forbidden to practise their traditions, were slightly less restricted during the Christmas season and were allowed to visit other plantations and revel with other slaves, with drumming and dancing in the streets also allowed at this time.

The dancing, drumming and elaborate costumes and effigies of the colonial masquerade bands reflected religious festival traditions of the Ibo and Yoruba tribes of

masquerade at Christmas declined over the years, particularly by the late 20th Century.

Recent efforts to revive the dying art form and tradition have seen collaboration between civil society and Government to host a symposium that looked at improving knowledge of the history of the tradition and its development and future in Guyana.

The masqueraders are becoming fewer and fewer as the years progress since many of the youths

As the years progressed, I got involved; at that time, dancing masquerade was something only the guys did.

We would start making our masks weeks before December 24 and start scouring the garbage heaps for discarded bottles and old kerosene stoves to make drums. On the day of the masquerade, we would go through our sister’s or mother’s clothing basket to find the right dress, stuff our chests, and venture off.

Timing was essential since there were a number of groups vying to see who would make the most money so that we could buy toys or whatever we wanted. The first group was the one most likely to make the most money, since people were usually more generous to that group. Over the years, the wearing of masks has fallen by the wayside, but masquerade persists.

Looking back at the history of masquerade in Guyana, it is said to have been a part of the traditions of the African slaves who were brought here during the slave trade.

West Africa during the time of the Harmattan (dry, dusty November– March winds blowing from the Sahara towards the west African coast) and harvest celebrations.

According to research, the Ibo and Yoruba believed that this was the time when their gods, dressed in costumes and masks, came to visit and perform dances.

While the slaves danced for entertainment, many of the spiritual traditions were retained in the masks and symbols that represented ancestors and gods, along with the acrobatics and costumes, which represented, or perhaps theatrically portrayed, stories of strength, agility, fertility, battle, evil and terror.

One of the few features that survived to contemporary times is the acrobatic agility displayed in the past by Koo Joo or Actor Boy. The stilt dancer performs these feats, as does the wild cow dancer. To a certain extent, the flouncers are expected to have similar skills.

The spectacle that was

do not want to take on the tradition; however, there are a few who are fighting to preserve the masquerade’s rich history in Guyana. (Sunday Times Magazine)

By Lakhram Bhagirat

Feature 29

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The decline of America

G

uyanese know that the most powerful neighbour in the North is the United States. It is the country to which most Guyanese would like to go to live. Some may prefer Canada. In the preindependence and post-independence Guyana, it is understandable that Guyanese would have opted for Britain. But the US is still by far the target country for most Guyanese who travel beyond the Caribbean and South American region. Globalisation, the Internet and rapid commute make it possible for people to travel to big cities around the world very quickly.

The Republican candidate, Donald Trump, is echoing what seems to be a popular narrative these days. He is arguing that America has been taken advantage of by other countries, such as Mexico and China. Thus, his campaign theme and his promise is to “make America great again”. Trump is arguing that America is so weak today that political leaders are unable to control America’s borders, let alone control its economy and stop its decline. Scholars who support this view point to the post-World War II era when America was a dominant hegemonic superpower with extensive global reach. Military leaders have argued that it is difficult for the US to fight two wars simultaneously because American military might has declined over the years. Some people have adopted a more organic view of American decline – the US, like Rome and Britain, will rise and fall.

A closer look at the arguments made by those who argue that America is in decline seems to make sense, at least, initially. It is true that the economic well-being of the average American (measured as median household income) has dropped over the last few decades. The US’s main competitor, in military and diplomatic terms, is Russia and America seems impotent in deciding on a preferred outcome in Syria or the Ukraine; areas where Russia seems to exercise greater influence.

And China has gone from being a small fraction of the US economy to being the largest economy on Earth. China has a large and growing Gross Domestic Product (although it is less than the US’s when measured at market exchange rates). And the gap between the two countries is widening. In most American households, everything seems to be “made in China”. Clearly, China’s economic takeoff represents a major shift in global power, particularly when it is flexing its military muscle in the mineral-rich South China Sea area. China’s rise is another economic blow to America’s influence in the important Asian market.

Aside from China, the US economy continues to face challenges from other developed countries, including Japan and Europe, countries the US provided with generous economic aid after World War II. The US now has a large trade deficit with other countries.

One continuing fact remains constant over the years – America has taken on too much of the world’s burden, ranging from providing economic assistance to fighting AIDS. While there is evidence to suggest that the US is not the economic and military giant it once was, it can be argued that its global power has been eclipsed.

The US cannot threaten countries as it has done in the past, nor can it easily use its economic aid to influence countries to behave in an approving way. The world has changed. Communism is dead and even the US is respectful of democratic norms and international laws to a certain extent. However, as Thomas Friedman has argued in his book The World is Flat, it is not that America is in decline, rather other nations are catching up to the US in terms of their and military and economic development. These global changes pose new challenges for the US. The reality is that the United States remains the world leader in scientific and technical strength.

The American capability for innovation and its global competitive power, its advanced Science and Technology, higher education, culture of innovation, and military technology still place the US ahead of the race among the almost 200 countries in the world. While not in “irreversible decline”, the US must continue to adapt to the changing world environment in order to remain ahead of the game. To say that the US is in decline is a stretch. (Send comments to BRamharack60@gmail.com)

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CJIA gets G$65M to upgrade ILO says unemployment equipment – Ferguson in the Caribbean

dipped slightly in 2018

(C M

ore money will be spent on the upgrade of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA)

in 2019.

This was announced by the Minister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Annette Ferguson, on Monday.

The move comes years after the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), which when in Opposition, had cut the funds the then Government – People’s Progressive Party (PPP) – had allocated for the CJIA expansion.

Ferguson made the comment while delivering the feature address at the Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School’s graduation and prize giving ceremony on Monday at the Eugene F. Correira International Airport.

According to the Minister, over G$65 million will be spent on the airport to upgrade its technology to be able to track the weather, among other things.

“We would have just approved in excess of G$65 million, which would now enable the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority out at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Air Traffic controllers to ensure that a new mechanism is installed so we (will) be moving from manual settings to a more digital setting,” she noted.

It was further explained that the new technology will even help pilots to track the weather patterns to make better landing decisions.

Earlier in the year, the Ministry had sought more than G$346 million in supplementary funding to cater for two air bridges and see the project to completion.

Upon completion, the airport is expected to have four air passenger boarding bridges for arrivals and de-

partures; a 450-seat Departure area, escalators and elevators in addition to an extended runway catering for larger categories of aircraft.

In 2012, Guyana, under the PPP Administration had secured a US$138 million loan from the China Exim (Export-Import) Bank to fund the expansion and modernisation project, for which the Guyana Government has injected some US$12 million.

However, when the coalition Government came in to power in 2015, the project was put on hold, but following discussions between Public Infrastructure and the contracting company, China Harbour Engineering Corporation (CHEC), it was announced that the project would be continued.

So far, the new arrival and departure sections have been opened to passengers.

The new arrivals terminal, which became operational in September, has already been commended by passengers. The outstanding work includes placement of hoardings (billboards) and striping of the runway (to reduce the risk of aircraft over-shooting the runway, or over-flying during take-off).

The striping can only be done after the laying of asphaltic concrete once the runway is completed.

Further, when the project is completed, other minor works will be done during the one-year defects and liability period, Public Infrastructure Minister, David Patterson said.

Just recently, the aviation sector was able to gain a 20 per cent improvement and currently stands at 64 per cent compliance in the sector. The announcement of the achievement was highlighted at opening of the Air Transport Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Center. (Davina Ramdass)

MC) – The U n i t e d Nations' International Labor Organization (ILO) says unemployment in Latin America and the Caribbean dipped slightly in 2018 after figures steadily increased for three years.

In its Labour Overview 2018 regional report, the ILO said the unemployment rate in Latin America and the Caribbean fell slightly to 7.8 per cent in 2018, compared to 8.1 per cent in 2017.

“In a context of slow economic growth, the improvement in the unemployment rate has been modest,” said ILO interim Regional Director Carlos Rodriguez on Wednesday, adding that there is a need “to increase the speed at which we generate more and better jobs”.

He said that the latest figures, which are based on data collected in the first nine

months of 2018, mean that some 25 million women and men in the region are unemployed.

ILO Regional Economist Hugo Ñopo warned that youth unemployment in the region was at alarming levels.

He said one in five of those aged 14-25 were looking for but failing to find work.

The report also highlighted the need to step up efforts to reduce gender inequality in the world of work.

Women's labour force participation rate remained constant in the first nine months of 2018, at 50.3 per cent, which is 20 percentage points below that for men, according to the report.

In the same period, it says the unemployment rate for women reached 10 per cent, compared with 7.3 per cent for men.

While the average unemployment rate

for the region fell, at national level, it increased in 10 countries and fell in seven, the report says.

It says the decrease in the regional rate was largely driven by an improvement in Brazil – home to 40 per cent of the region's economically active population – which saw its unemployment rate fall by 0.6 percentage points.

The report says that real minimum wages increased both regionally and in 12 of the 16 countries that provided data.

The report says one million jobs could be created if an International Monetary Fund forecast for 2.2 per cent growth in 2019 is realised.

But it also warns that future trends in the region “remain uncertain, amid labour market vulnerability to political, trade and investment fluctuations.”

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Preserving our literary heritage

by

O

f course, Christmas (the celebration of Christmas) today with all its technological timesaving innovations in communication, transportation, in the kitchen, laundry room etc. will be different from Christmas of yesteryear.

Literature was there to record the times and here are a few examples of how some of our writers described those Christmases at various times and in various places.

S. E. Wills our first notable versifiers was the first ‘to specialise in depicting local life’. In his poem, ‘Christmas in the Tropics’, written in 1907, this was how he described Christmas.

This poem sets the tone of the article comparing Christmas in the Tropics to Christmas in the Temperate Zone.

What jostling hosts of memories the name of Christmas starts, Remembrances that rush from out our minds right to our hearts, With sweet anticipations of the cheer the season brings,…

O, Queen of the Seasons, happy childhood is thy other name; Thy spirit dwells, in the sunny lands and milder climes the same, Within heart of youth; also in those advanced in years…

In these realms within the bounds of Cancer and of Capricorn, We have caught the ruling spirit of the day the Christ was born....

We may not have

Yule log or the hanging mistletoe, But then we have the sunshine and the hearts that with it go…

And in these warmer regions of this fair old world of ours We can brave the thorns at Christmas times and boldly pluck the flowers, We can smooth down petty diff’rences and give the rein to peace, We can but bid our wrongs be silent and our jealousies to cease, …

Thank God for all the Christmases within reach of time.’

Beryl Gilroy was born in 1924, in Springlands, Berbice, and here are some of her thoughts on the season.

It was a busy time for all the Christian families in our village. Some of the religious sects never celebrated Xmas but by the time the day came,

it was impossible to set them apart…. All children were consciously cooperative, running minor and major errands without complaint. Politeness was carried almost to the point of mockery….

Paddy plants were planted in bowls indoors and tended with love so that they could, by their growth, greet the infant saviour…. We seemed to accept that people would drink too much of the rum so freely given, and eat too much of the food through which love and happiness were made flesh.

Rooplall Monar was born in November 1945, growing up in Plantation Lusignan, East Coast of Demerara, until he was seven when he moved to Annadale. Most of his writing was done in Ramsingh Street, the name of one of his many memorable collections of short fiction.

Every time Christmas season approaching me does always remember one particular Friday gone back when me one small boy… Me tell you, is every manjack singing hymns and Chrismus carols while Headmaster Williams swaying he cane on the stage with he eyes close as though he conducting one music choir…. Well, every time ahwe done sing one carol, them Missie up in the verandah clapping… then them two manager missie start throw down handful sweetie and cent and jill while they giggling as though we is dog or carrion crow who gat fo fight fo the cent and jill and sweetie. And you should see the scrambling and fall-down and bruise-up while fancyfancy sweetie and cent and jill dropping down like rain and them manager missie giggling and ahwe school picknie scrambling as though

cent and jill is ahwe life.

The book, ‘Nostalgias: Golden Memories of Guyana 1940 – 1980’

by Godfrey Chin opens with a reflective feature on Christmas via ‘Christmas 1944: In memory of my father’ and ends with an entertaining feature on Christmas via ‘The true Guyanese Christmas spirit’. In between those two pieces are numerous references to Christmas, both major and minor.

In ‘Christmas 1944’, you could find every and anything on the season at that time like Christmas Raffle, Christmas Box hand, Puzzlin Box, with which to make your Christmas shopping a pleasure or pain. Depending on how you prioritise, you may be able to enjoy ‘Swift ham in tar paper, a fivepound tin of Macintosh Quality Street chocolates, Marie custard cream biscuits and an

Petamber Persaud

Edam Dutchman head cheese’. For breakfast, you may be able to get ‘slices of ham, pickled onions, ketchup and bread plus Red Rose tea, cocoa, or bush tea…boiled duck, funsee soup with foo-chuck, ice cream with KOO canned grapes, imported from South Africa but later banned after apartheid’.

During this season, no one is left out. There are chores for mothers like ‘sewing curtains; boiling, honey-baking and cloving the ham; churning salt butter to bake sponge cake; setting sorrel, ginger beer, jamoon or rice wine’, preparing garlic pork and pepperpot. Also making artificial flowers from crepe paper. Everyone is involved in Christmas cleaning which included re-polishing furniture with a ‘magical concoction of mentholated spirit and French wood polish’ and polishing floor or covering it with linoleum.

Decorating the Christmas tree was the big event of the season. Chin wrote ‘[o]n the fourth Sunday before Christmas, the annual ritual …would begin.’

And for many decades, everything concerning the Christmas was homemade.

The other big event of the season was Christmas Eve Day and Christmas Eve Night – last minute shopping, window shopping after stores were closed cracking peanuts and licking ice cream cones, and midnight mass.

In this feature, ‘Christmas 1944’, you would find toys for tots and the game children played. The toys were ‘inexpensive’ like ‘jig saw puzzles, colouring books, and springwound toy train made of tin, Sherman and Panzer tanks’, wood guns, slingshots, boats, submarines, all accompanied by ‘flutes from papaw stems; comb and silver paper; empty bottle and spoon; calabash shacshac; and biscuits cans for bass drums’.

And for sure, our writers will record for posterity the Christmases post-sugar and first oil.

What will they say and how will they say it, stay tune.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com (Sunday Times Magazine)

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By Lakhram Bhagirat

I

n order for us to excel in something, we have to first have the passion to be in that field and second, have the drive to keep going even when the going gets tough, and that is exactly what Autimae Le-Black has been doing. Her creations speak of her commitment and dedication to putting the best foot forward and creating an everlasting impression on all those who

come into contact with her.

Autimae is the owner and sole employee at Delight Treats, which she operates out of her kitchen at Coghlan Dam, Pouderoyen on the West Bank of Demerara. Her speciality is something that is quite unconventional in the Guyanese context. She has successfully mastered the art of cookie making and decorating, and around this time, she is swamped with orders for the intricately designed cookies.

Her flourishing business is a sign that Guyanese are shifting away from the tradition of having a tin of Danish butter cookies in their homes for Christmas and are now moving towards locally made and meticulously designed cookies.

Looking back at the beginning, she tells me that baking has always been one of her passions, but not something that she thought she would have done on this scale. She remembers as a youngster living with her grandmother, she would bake cakes whenever there was a birthday in the family and decorate them.

“My grandmother would buy the ingredients and I would bake and ice the cakes. It was fun. I loved baking from small and I went to Carnegie (School of Home Economics) and did courses and so on, but I never follow it. I just went about life,” she said.

About two years ago while scrolling through Facebook, she came across Sonia Noel’s Women in Business Expo advertisement, which triggered the decision to start her own business.

“Being home and scrolling through Facebook, I came across the Women in Business Expo and I decided to start my busi-

ness, because I could not get into last year expo, but I am here now and I am happy that I am able to showcase my products,” Le-Black told me during the second Expo.

When I asked her what led to cookies, she related that one day while going through Youtube, she came across several videos of how to make and decorate cookies. After viewing the videos, she decided to give it a shot and from there, there was no turning back.

“I made the cookies and they came out good and from then it was the start of something new. I enjoy every second of what I do and my cookie base is the

FEATURE 35

standard sugar cookie, but the designs are far from standard. I take my time and do my work and I take pride in it,” she said.

Autimae says that a single cookie takes about three days from start to finish and around this time, she is swamped with orders, hence the reason she advises cookies must be ordered about a week before the intended delivery date. When it comes to the Guyanese people’s response to her craft, Autimae noted that it has been overwhelming since the feedback has been positive and business is booming.

(Sunday Times Magazine)

36 FEATURE

By Lakhram Bhagirat

A

hhhh... The rich, wonderful meaty smell of pepperpot, redolent with the unique caramelised flavour of cassareep and hints of cinnamon and cloves simmered for hours on the stove. Remember trying to steal a little when mommy asked you to stir the pot? The smell and taste of Christmas in your mouth well worth the pain of a burnt tongue.

Around this time, pepperpot and black cake are two words we constantly hear and while we all know the origins of pepperpot, what we do not know is how we, as Guyanese, have come to associate the dish with our traditional Christmas celebration. But it is not Christmas without pepperpot and some fresh homemade bread.

Pepperpot is an Amerindian dish, and perhaps the most popular and widely enjoyed one. It is quite simple to make, but is packed with flavour and could be customised to suit one’s palate. The ingredients are few: essentially a mix of

meats, good-quality cassareep, a handful of herbs and spices, and of course, hot peppers.

One of my favourite Guyanese food bloggers, Jehan Powell, who is based in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, says her Christmas is incomplete without some freshlymade plait bread and pepperpot. She writes: “Pepperpot is the national dish of Guyana, which was originally made by the Amerindians, who used cassareep to preserve meat without using refrigeration. That’s right; this stew can sit out of the fridge as long as you heat it daily.

Cassareep, which is the main component of pepperpot, is a dark syrup that is made from cassava. A variety of meats are stewed with the cassareep, hot pepper and spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, the result is a deep, dark, flavourful stew that goes well with bread.”

Throughout the Caribbean, there are different variations of this dish but none as unique as that of Guyana because most island nations

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would use caramelised sugar or other browning agents whereas we in Guyana cannot make pepperpot without cassareep.

Since the cassareep is the star of the dish, it is integral that you get the finest quality when preparing this. I mean there are a lot of varieties available out there, but most include caramelised sugar as their browning agent. It is the only reason they could be sold for as little as $140 per bottle.

Caramelised sugar is not what we need for the best pepperpot. It is advisable that you procure your cassareep from an Amerindian community, since that is the only way of knowing for a fact that it is the real deal. Since pepperpot is a means of preserving meat, it is ideal that you prepare your pepperpot at least 24 hours before consumption so the flavours could develop, making your dish an experience.

The traditional way of serving pepperpot would be with cassava bread, but, as indicated earlier, it works fine with bread.

So, this Christmas, if it is not part of your tradition, I advise that you try to make pepperpot and share it with the family. So to help the process along, I am sharing one

of my favourite recipes for pepperpot, so you too can enjoy. This recipe belongs to Jehan and while everyone has their own, I find that this one works best for me.

Ingredients • 2 lb chicken, cut into pieces • 2 lb stew beef, cut into 2-inch pieces • 1 lb cow heel (feet) • 1/2 lb salted beef, cut into 2-inch pieces • 1 cup genuine cassava cassareep • a few wiri wiri peppers • 4 cloves garlic • 1 small onion • 1 bunch thyme • 1 teaspoon of salt, or salt to taste • 3 tbsp sugar • Lime juice or vinegar

• 4 cloves • 2 pieces orange peel • 1 stick cinnamon Instructions 1. Trim excess fat off meat and soak in vinegar for about 15 to 30 minutes. Puree garlic, onion, and thyme. Marinate fresh meat with marinade and 1/3 cup of cassareep.

2. Meanwhile, in a pressure cooker, place salted beef and pressure for 10 minutes. Discard the water and set meat aside.

3. Wash the cow heel thoroughly by soaking in vinegar for about half an hour. Rinse. Place in pressure cooker and pressure for 20 minutes or until tender. Discard water.

*If the cow heel isn't soft after 20 minutes, continue to pressure in fiveminute intervals, checking for tenderness.

4. In a stock pot, cook beef and chicken in marinade until all liquid evaporates. Add the cow heel, salted beef, sugar and remaining cassareep with the stick of cinnamon, cloves, orange peel and enough water to cover.

If the stew is brown, add more cassareep to attain a deep, dark colour.

5. Cook slowly until tender. Add pepper and salt to taste. This meal tastes better the next day, so it is best when made a day ahead. To serve this meal, warm and serve with bread or cassava bread. (Sunday Times Magazine)

By Lakhram Bhagirat

“M

y interest in cake started after I got married and I realised how expensive my wedding cake was. It was a great cake, but it was very expensive and since then I said to myself that I will learn to do cakes and will do everybody’s wedding cake for free. I started to do it, but the cake decorators started to complain and I had to attach a fee to it,” Paula Blount revealed.

The Lindener says cake is now her life and it has been catapulted into something bigger than she could have imagined. Looking back at the beginning, she said that she completed her cake decorating course in July of 2000 and immediately went to work by providing free cake decorating services to persons, since that was the intention. But it soon turned into a business after she was forced to affix a charge for her services.

Paula, now 41 years old, owns and operates Healthy Bites Cakes located in Central Amelia’s Ward in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice). She said that the bakery became a reality during the last six years after she decided to delve deeper into the world of cakes.

“I bake and offer cake decorating training. We bake and decorate cakes and sell them at affordable costs, and I always say that I can sell you a cake and I can teach you how to make a cake. For the last two years, I have been travelling countrywide and teaching the women how to do a cake. I taught about 85

per cent of the ladies that you see selling cakes now.

I don’t teach them just to decorate, I teach them to start their businesses, because they need that skill to be more self-sufficient,” she said.

She notes that her cakes are unique because she puts her all into them and around the festive season, even more goes into making her cakes. She uses the finest quality ingredients to offer the best tasting cakes. Her black cakes are to die for. They are super moist and soaked in just the right amount of alcohol.

She said that she did not venture into the world of cookies and pastries because they were readily available, but quality cakes were sometimes very hard to find.

Apart from the regular custom cakes, Paula, during Christmas time, offers her customers the choice of taking home either a delectable black cake, a scrumptious fruit cake or an irresistible sponge. Her cakes are a labour of love and in true Guyanese style, she serves them without any decoration. However, if her customers request decorations, then their wish would be fulfilled.

When I asked her what makes her cakes different from others, she responded: “My cakes are a part of me. They are not only flavourful, but I do not sell a customer a cake, because they want a cake; I talk to them and find out their likes and then I create a masterpiece for them. It is how I work and I guess it is what makes my cakes and myself truly different.”

(Sunday Times Magazine)

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38 NEWS

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St Vincent man found guilty of raping his wife K

INGSTOWN, St Vincent (CMC) — A 39-year-old man, who was found guilty of raping his wife four years ago, has beenhj sentenced to 13 years in jail.

An eight-member jury had, in November, also found the man guilty of assaulting his wife between October 15 and 18, 2014, occasioning actual bodily harm.

The man's identity is being withheld and the jury had also returned a guilty verdict that on December 13, 2014, he abducted his wife and assaulted her.

However, the jury was split evenly on a second charge of rape, allegedly committed between October 15 and 18, 2014.

There was also a hung jury on a charge of aggravated burglary and damage to property, crimes the man was accused of committing on December 13, 2014.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Sejilla McDowall had asked the court for an adjournment for the Crown to decide on

a course of action regarding the charges on which the jury did not reach an agreement.

During the trial, the court heard that the couple was having marital problems and that there was no communication between them while the wife was in England for three months caring for an ill sibling.

The jury accepted the prosecution's case that the man had raped his wife on October 13 after he forced himself into an apartment where the woman was living with their son.

The court heard that the man had wielded a penknife during an argument with his wife and during the fracas demanded whether or not she had been faithful to him.

The court heard that the man had sex with the woman against her will.

But defence counsel, Ronald “Ronnie” Marks argued that the couple had engaged in “make-up sex”.

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Four-lane highway recommended for East Bank-East Coast road linkage

A

Senior Highway Engineer of RITES Limited, Rajendra Sothwal

four-lane highway has been recommended for the East Bank-East Coast road linkage project.

Senior Highway Engineer of RITES Limited, Rajendra Sothwal made the recommendation on Monday during a scoping meeting at the Critchlow Labour College.

“The main alignment is four-lane, four connectors are there, one connector is Aubrey Barker, second connector Haag Bosh, the third connector is Mocha Arcadia and the last one is great Diamond connector. The total length of the project is around 25 kilometres and the main alignment is 13.5 kilometres.

We propose the fourlane highway’s speed to be around 100 kilometres per hour,” Sothwal was quoted by the Department of Public Information (DPI) as saying.

It was made known that the new road will be outfitted with four ground culverts, four steel composite bridges, intersections, sidewalks and bicycle lanes.

Two residential properties at Goedverwagting, 18 at Ogle, nine at Aubrey Barker road, 14 at Mocha and six at Diamond will be affected during execution of the three-phase project.

The project’s implementation has three stages, which are the detail project report preparation, construction supervision, post construction stage-defect liability.

According to the senior highway engineer, the road safety provi-

sions include metal beam barrier, concrete crash barrier, highway lighting, traffic signs, pavement marking, impact attenuators, road studs, pedestrian footpath, cycle tracks and shrub plantation, and a raised median to cut headlight glare.

“We have taken care of the whole safety aspect like we have doubled up junctions etc. This project will be the landmark for Guyana and especially for Georgetown, the new road will significantly reduce traffic congestion in Georgetown,” Sothwal explained.

The scoping meeting focused on the environmental impact following construction works on the road. Technical Services Manager of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Nigel Erskine said another meeting will be held to facilitate the public’s input.

“We are anticipating that the designs for the project will be completed by April next year and then a few months later by mid-2019 we will proceed with the construction works. There’s another scoping meeting planned for next year, it will be public consultation, so persons can come and engage the consultants,” Erskine explained.

The Government, through a loan provided by the Government of India, has entered into an agreement for the project. Erskine added that the Ministry is pursuing G$120 million from the line of credit with India to facilitate the project.

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

45

46 NEWS

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Buju Banton’s first performance set for Jamaica, DJ Khaled visits

Trinidad pastor on sex assault charges in custody

(Trinidad Guardian)

A Buju Banton in studio with the music mogu, DJ Khaled.

(Jamaica Observer)

I

t’s official. Buju Banton’s first major performance will be held on March 16 at National Stadium in St Andrew.

Ronnie Tomlinson, publicist for the Grammy-winning deejay, confirmed the date with the Jamaica Observer yesterday, noting tickets will go on sale as early as January 16 — two months before the highly anticipated performance by the artiste who was recently released from a United States prison after serving a near 10-year sentence on drug-related charges.

She, however, could not speak to any further details regarding the concert.

Buju Banton posted on his social media pages giving notice of the upcoming show.

Meanwhile, a veil of secrecy surrounds the activities of American producer/record executive DJ Khaled and Buju Banton.

A source close to DJ Khaled noted that he is scheduled to leave the country on Sunday, but declined to furnish any details re-

garding the work being done callaboration.

DJ Khaled has made it clear he is working on music for his Father of Asahd album while here in Jamaica, but has remained tightlipped on whether or not Buju Banton will be included on this project.

The producer, who arrived in the island on Sunday, has taken to social media sharing his moments with not only Buju Banton but other artistes including Bounty Killer and Sizzla, and retired track and field superstar Usain Bolt.

However, the Instagram posts getting the most traction are those showcasing Buju Banton meeting with Khaled, his wife Nicole, and son Asahd. There are also videos featuring Buju Banton in studio with the music mogul.

“I’m in Jamaica and history is being made… Working on Father of Asahd with my son in Jamaica is the biggest blessing,” he noted in a post on Instagram.

“Me coming back to Jamaica is like so special for me. I’m embrac-

Looking back…

N

…at Gajraj

ews of the passing of former Home Affairs Minister Ronald Gajraj came as a surprise to most. He was comparatively young – just 65 – when fellas decades older than he was are being appointed to high level Government positions. To most, the GDF officer who became a lawyer will be remembered for his service to the nation during what PNC-leader David Granger has referred to as “the troubles”.

Starting in 2002, this was the frontal attack on the Guyanese state by a band of gunmen holed up in the village of Buxton – which became a “state within the state”. The more than half of Guyana’s population below 26 years old mightn’t remember what those dark days were all about. The gang – with its core of 5 prisoners who’d shot their way out of Camp Street Prison – began by targeting Policemen.

Pretty soon, cops were falling like ninepins, and in the next two years, more policemen were killed than in the entire 100+ year history of the Police Force.

But the gunmen didn’t stop there, they announced

ing the blessing and embracing the vibes. Working on Father of Asahd, which is one of my biggest albums ever. Buju is home. I’m gonna visit all my friends, pull up on them. It’s pure love,” he mused.

His Instagram account is dotted with photographs and videos from his beachside luxury villa on the north coast to the stops with his musical family. There are moments from his stop at Judgement Yard — the home of reggae artiste Sizzla which is located in the August Town area of St Andrew; and a link-up with Bounty Killer at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records in the Corporate Area, where he has also been photographed with the world record holder.

On March 1, 2018 Khaled announced his 11th studio album, Father of Asahd, and its lead single Top Off, featuring Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Future. On July 23 Khaled announced the next single, titled No Brainer, featuring Justin Bieber, Chance the Rapper and Quavo, which was released on July 27.

on TV they were “African Freedom Fighters”. They became terrorists – those who unleash violence on civilians to bring pressure on governments — when they turned their (gun) sights on innocent IndoGuyanese in the villages surrounding Buxton.

Dozens of the latter were killed with no mercy shown. One more egregious instance was when a wheelchair-bound man mourning the death of his wife at her wake was doused with gasoline by the “Freedom Fighters” and set alight. The question that you may be asking, dear (young) reader, is: “What were the law enforcement personnel doing when all this mayhem was being committed?” Especially on their own ranks – Policemen!

And the answer, sadly, is that they were making much noise, but taking very little effective action.

For instance, GDF soldiers stationed in Buxton refused to pursue the gang when crimes were being committed in full sight. Their answer was “not our job, man!” They insisted, when “joint operations” were being conducted (with the Police), that only the latter could make actual arrests.

It was at this time, when the very foundations of the state were being shaken, that several squads of gunmen were organised to take on these terrorists.

One of these was dubbed the “Phantom Squad”

by Cabinet Secretary Roger Luncheon, and it was alleged that Minister Gajraj was coordinating their activities. A Commission of Inquiry (CoI) set up by President Jagdeo to investigate these allegations found no such link.

Gajraj was subsequently made Ambassador to India, and later to Bangladesh. His passing will stir up a lot of memories.

pastor, of Consolation Ministry in Arima, has appeared in court charged with grievous sexual assault.

Edison Baptiste, 58, a pastor and farmer, of Boodoo Highway, Sangre Grande, appeared before Senior Magistrate Gillian Scotland in the Sangre Grande First Court charged with the offence. He was refused bail and remanded in custody.

He was arrested

by WPC Timothy, of Sangre Grande Crime Investigation Department and charged with the offence.

His lawyer, Shivanan Dubay, in a bail application, said his client is married and re-

sides with his wife at a Farm on Boodoo Highway. Scotland asked for a report on the accused pastor and police record which revealed that he has a sexual penetration matter pending in the Arima Court.

The application for bail was immediately turned down and Scotland him into custody.

Police reported that on October 1, 2018, the 56-year old victim went to Baptiste for prayers for an ailment she was suffering from.

The victim later went to the Sangre Grande Police Station and made a report after which investigations made led to his arrest.

Baptiste is to return to the Sangre Grande Court on January 14, 2019.

And to many who were targets of the gunmen, he will be remembered as a hero. …at Linden boosts The promise of the Chairman of the PNC to take care of friends and members of the party is proceeding full pace in Linden. The Chronic ran two stories yesterday that Chronicled their latest efforts – “300 jobs for Lindeners” and “More funds for LEN” – Linden Enterprise Network. The 300 jobs will be facilitated by spending G$60 million to repair the former Guyana Stores building to house a call centre. More than that amount had already been spent to no effect. LEN, which is a G$160 million fund to offer loans to prospective businesses, was also bumped to G$218 million. Jordan, however, revealed that “house loans” would now be given from LEN. LEN was reinstated immediately in 2015 by the new PNC Government, and succeeded the Linden Economic Advancement Fund (LEAF) which had succeeded the Linden Economic Advancement Programme (LEAP) – both of which had doled out BILLIONS to Lindeners to stimulate businesses and create jobs. To no effect.

So the Government keep throwing money at the problem, because they want to show they are “doing something” for “the boys”. …at Masqueraders Christmas is around the corner. How’d we know?

Well, you can’t drive down any of the major streets of Georgetown or the HIGHWAYS without having to come to a stop by Masqueraders demanding payment!

It’s we culture!!

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Turned tables…

T

…at GuySuCo

he tables have been turned at GuySuCo and, (to mix a metaphor) how low have the mighty fallen!! You could’ve knocked your Eyewitness over with a feather when he read the headline: “GuySuCo managers protest”!! Talk about “man bites dog” news!! Managers in the sugar industry PROTESTING? What next? The Queen of England scrounging with a begging bowl??

For the uninitiated, when Eric Williams declared “Massa day done!” after independence, he didn’t know what the heck he was talking about! “Massa” wasn’t just the British Governor and his cohorts – he was the fella from “the Mother Country” who continued to run “King Sugar”. Their predecessors hadn’t just been cracking the whip in the fields over OUR forefathers’ (and foremothers’) backs…they created a rarified lifestyle designed to inspire “shock and awe” in the latters’ eyes. Nothing exemplified this more than the “Massas’ quarters.

There were segregated “compounds”, with lofty mansions set in cultured lawns, with swimming pools; and the “club”, where they could while away the evening over gin and tonic, or whatever else their hearts desired. Servants took care of their every need, and the world “EVERY” was meant to be taken quite literally. Our “mixed” population is, of course, the result of the fulfilment of some of those needs!!

In the modern era, their children were driven to and from school in designated vehicles, while the cooks took care of mundane things like shopping.

After Burnham nationalised the sugar industry and “Guyanesed “ the management staff of what was now dubbed GuySuCo – the policy of “jobs for the boys” with PNC cards kicked into gear. And some new “Massas” not just stepped into Massas’ quarters – but into their shoes!! In astounding displays of “never see come fuh see”, the PNC Massas even outdid the excesses of the departed White Massas.

By 1990, production had plummeted to half of what the old Massas had routinely achieved – but you could never tell from their Marie Antoinette lifestyle.

In one (in)famous instance, when the daughter of the head honcho was getting married – at the Managers’ Club, of course – and the rain made the approach muddy, hundreds of tons of fertilisers were spread over the mud to create a pristine path!!

This “life in London” lifestyle might’ve been dampened in the last decades, but the managers of GuySuCo still lived “high off the hog”, compared to the workers. But when NICIL created the SPU to sell off the four closed estates, they decided to be the NEW Massas by sprucing up the Ogle Managers’ Club for THEIR own high living!!

And this is what the old Massas are protesting!!

What goes around comes around. …at City Hall The Local Government Commission (LGC) have said they’ll make a decision on which of the recommendations from the Kennard Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into City Hall will be implemented. This should be interesting. From what your Eyewitness has read, the entire staff in those Augean Stables should be thrown out – along with the rotten materials from the collapsed building that housed them.

On Royston King, the Town Clerk, who was the cynosure of the CoI’s eye, it said, “While it is the easiest of recommendation to make, this officer should be terminated, and criminal charges should be laid against him in respect of his actions… the SARA (State Assets Recovery Agency) and the Guyana Police Force should lead a joint probe to ascertain the relevant criminal charge(s) to be laid… for gross misconduct, abuse of office, recklessness, dishonesty, conspiracy and misappropriation of funds.”

Whew!! He was just as direct on Chief Constable Foo – “lacks credibility, integrity and competence to manage the City Constabulary, which is under his control.”

Citizens should be on the lookout for the LGC sweeping these boulders under the rug. …on GHRA The one-man GHRA woke up from his slumber to announce he’s disappointed at the lack of progress on Constitutional Change.

What about the human rights of those fired sugar workers left to starve with their families?

Psychological bases of ethnic conflict

47

By Ravi Dev

G

roups placed in the same environment share a universal tendency to compare themselves against each other. When, as in Guyana, groups with reinforcing cleavages of culture, attitudes, race, religion, etc., are thrown into the same society, comparison is inevitable and inescapable.

The intractability of ethnicity lies in this fact: each category of individuals with similar traits evaluates itself positively, and others with dissimilar traits negatively.

Over the course of time, the process results in stereotypical attitudes being formed, as the cultural or physical or other trait is given a social meaning which is applied to the whole group.

This group comparison is of great significance because of its stress on the “worth” of its members, to whom this evaluation becomes an integral part of their identity and selfesteem. Some individuals may be impoverished, but as members of a powerful group, they still have some pride of self-worth vis-a-vis members of less “powerful” groups. It is for this reason that lower class members of ethnic groups can be mobilised by their elites.

The reward is not only the promise of economic gain, which class identification could have provided, but the more powerful psychic gratification of belonging and identifying with a

S

“power group”.

At the abolition of slavery, Guyanese society was culturally uniform in the anthropological sense, but culturally diverse in the sociological sense; with the Whites, Coloureds and Africans forming distinct social strata in descending order of status, power and economic worth. While, for instance, all accepted the values of Creole culture, the Coloureds had different speech patterns, foods, habits, dress, etc. from the African masses, and considered the latter their social inferiors. The introduction of Indians into Guyana — with their acceptance of “slave work”, “heathen” religion and unfamiliarity with Creole culture and values — gave the society, and especially the Africans, the opportunity to further compare and afterwards designate a new low man on the totem pole.

He was the ‘coolie’, whose typical immigrant focus on economic advancement was labelled as “mean and stingy”, and stoic acceptance of hardships, “docile”.

The Indian, on the other hand, sequestered in the rural plantations, came primarily into contact only with rural Africans. The Indians, defensively valuing their culture and heritage highly, rejected the “coolie” categorisation; and when in social comparison, utilised the planters’ criteria to stereotype the African. They

atiricus was excited as he walked towards the Back Street Bar. His cousin Georgie, from New York, had returned and was thinking about setting up a business for the “coming oil boom”, as he said. What Satiricus knew was his “town man” cousin was a free spender and he knew he’d have a good time.

“Hey Cuz!” shouted Satiricus as he entered the bar and saw Georgie already chugging a cold one with the fellas. “I see you beat me to the punch!!”

“I ain’t gat time to waste when it come to beers, bannuh!!” said Georgie with a broad grin. “I just getting to know de guys again!”

“De bai na change a-tall, Sato!” exclaimed Bungi. “’E jus’ like w’en ‘e use to visit abee lang time!”

“Yes, man! Jargie already buy two round fuh abee,” said Cappo. “C’rismuss guh be good dis year!”

“But tell me something, Georgie,” said Hari. “How’s New York, since I told you I’ll be going up there to try a thing.”

“Da place col’ bai!” said Georgie. “You gotta bundle up!”

were lazy (for rejecting the despised “slave” work), hedonistic (for their emphasis on fancy clothes and weekend revelry), licentious (for their serial polygamy) and lacking their own culture (for imitating the British).

One armament used by some groups in the competition over relative group worth is the notion of ‘legitimacy’, where one group is convinced that it has a greater right than other groups to the national patrimony. In Guyana, as in the West Indies as a whole, because of their prior arrival, greater acculturation to White values, earlier entry into governmental services and politics, Africans and Coloureds view themselves as having greater claims to legitimacy than other groups. The latter groups, however, rejected this claim, and countered that their contribution to the development of the country and the international norms of equality conferred on them as much right as other groups to all that the country offered.

This assertion of group worth and the negative stereotyping of other groups does not ineluctably lead to conflict, nor is it ”racism”, as some have asserted. Racism is not simply a question of attitudes, but is the coupling of the negative stereotyping with domination of the target group. Racism, then, implies the possession of

the power by one group to dominate another group that is identified by racial or ethnic criteria. To deal with racism only at the attitudinal level is to ignore the society’s structural, social, economic, and political relations which may be infused by the principle of domination.

Africans and Indians had co-existed in Guyana for over one hundred and twenty-four years (1838-1962) without any major confrontation.

The British policy of segregating the groups in different ecological and economic niches mitigated competition. The potential for ethnic conflict in Guyana or elsewhere is stimulated when there are changes that cause one or more ethnic groups in a given society to feel threatened by other groups. Changes that affect the groups’ self-worth — especially if they are structural, and thus self-perpetuating and widespread — create the greatest potential for conflict.

As in all group activities, the strategies employed by the leaders are key elements in determining the course of the conflict.

Political groups become politically functional only when individuals make them so.

Moving on “What Hari means is, how are his job prospects?” interjected Satiricus.

“Bannas you can always make a living in New York,” said Georgie, as he clinked bottles with Hari. “I’ll put you in touch with some friends in construction.”

“But why yuh come back, if New Yark suh good?” asked Bungi.

“I ain’t wan’ just fuh make a living, guys,” said Georgie. “Ah wa’n get rich!”

“An’ yuh believe yuh guh get rich in Guyana?” asked Cappo, with raised eyebrows.

“Budday! With 5 billion barrel oil comin’, some money gotta come my way!!” said Georgie.

“My friend,” said Hari quietly. “Then you better get a Pee’nSee card or become a friend with a Pee’nSee big one!”

“Ah know ah bin away long,” said Georgie.

“But I’s still Guyanese you know! I already hook up with a friend from town!!” “What about?” asked Satiricus curiously.

“He get an I.T. contract because he’s born Pee’anSee,” replied Georgie. “But he thinks a mouse is a rodent!! I know I.T.!!”

48 Bollywood

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Kangana Ranaut on Ranveer on Deepika: Being best friends key to sustaining Manikarnika: I love directing more than anything else romantic relationship

K

R

anveer Singh says being best friends with one’s spouse is “key to sustaining a romantic relationship”. Ranveer tied the knot with his girlfriend of six years, actor Deepika Padukone in an intimate twin wedding ceremony in Italy last month.

“Being best friends with each other is truly dynamic. We are deeply in love with each other but above all we are best friends. We are each other’s support system, companions. We have a lot of fun together.

“Being each other’s best friend is truly paramount, where you can share silences, laughter and light moments.

To have somebody who makes the passing of the lifetime a pleasant experience every day is very rare and precious,” the actor told PTI in an interview.

The couple started dating on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela. The duo then went on to feature in two more of Bhansali’s films Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat.

“I feel like the two greatest things I’ve done in my life is, one, become an actor and two, get myself the most amazing life partner one can hope for,” he adds.

Ranveer credits Deepika for curating every aspect of their “fairytale” wedding.

“I had this fairytale wedding and I keep telling my wife that it’s the stuff of dreams. I could not have even dreamed of such a wedding. It’s beyond my imagination. I could never have the

vision for it. She meticulously curated and designed every aspect of it.

“It was everything as it should have been – the most joyous month of our lives, there were tears of happiness throughout. It will be a fond memory in our hearts forever,” he says.

The actor says someone “very senior” in the film industry told the couple after the wedding that as youth icons their tying the knot has “reinstated everyone’s faith in the institution of marriage”.

“In the day and age we live in, the concept of marriage is questioned sometimes. This person told us how this has made a socio-cultural impact.

To make a commitment is a positive sign. I feel lucky and blessed. As cliche as it sounds, she’s literally the best thing to have happened to me,” he says.

Ranveer was speaking on the sidelines of a promotional event of his next, Simmba. The Rohit Shetty cop-action-drama is scheduled to release on December 28.

With film promotions in full swing, the actor says, unlike Deepika, he is not someone who is adept at striking a work-life balance.

“This is the kind of workload that I am not used to. It requires discipline and time management, both of which are not my strong points. But my wife is helping me now. She’s very good at handling massive workload and still maintaining a work-life balance. I have some support now,” he says. (Indian Express)

angana Ranaut, who will be returning to the big screen after a one-year gap, opened up about working on Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi at the trailer launch of the film in Mumbai.

Kangana, who has also directed portions of the movie, said that she loves directing more than anything else.

“I was telling my sister yesterday, ‘I don’t know what is it about me but I really love working as a technician.’ No actor wants to be out in the sun as opposed to being in the AC van. No actor wants to be among 80 sweaty people who are asking you 100 questions. No actor wants to do recce when they can sit conveniently in their luxury suites. I don’t know what is it about me that I am so comfortable in this job. There is nothing I love more than directing. Even though I don’t get to wear make-up or look like my star self or get any special treatment. It is absolutely a worker’s life to be honest, but there’s something so amazing about this job that I don’t know why people even consider this a job. It is so much fun. I think acting is more like a job but directing is a lot of fun. I hope I get more chances to do this. This seems like my first love,” Kangana said at the trailer launch of Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi.

Talking about how she took over the reins of directing at the last minute and whether the transformation affected the narrative, Kangana said, “As far as creative aspect is concerned,

A A

dult film star-turned-Bollywood actor Sunny Leone, who is often a target of sexist and disparaging remarks by people, says she is disturbed when “nonsense” gets highlighted.

“I always try to push negativity aside, but there are some things which I can’t because I am also a human and I have feelings.

“I get disturbed when the media exaggerates and highlights things that they know is nonsense and can hurt people. If radical, violent groups are not given attention then maybe this world would be a better place to live in,” Sunny told IANS over email.

Despite paving a successful

path for herself in Bollywood, Sunny attracts malicious comments from several people, especially on social media.

But their wrath and hatred cannot stop Sunny as she knows how to “protect herself”. Sometimes, she even has to answer “judgmental as well as misogynistic” questions thrown at her by journalists.

She said: “Each situation is different and I always like to give the journalist the benefit of the doubt; but I have worked up the courage to throw something back at them. I know how to make them equally feel uncomfortable or really bad. So then it stops there usually. I don’t know any other way to protect myself than to speak up.”

Before making her Bollywood debut with Pooja Bhatt’s 2012 thriller Jism 2, Sunny participated in the controversial reality television series Bigg Boss. Later, she featured in movies like Ragini MMS 2, Ek Paheli Leela, Kuch Kuch Locha Hai, Mastizaade and Tera Intezaar.

Earlier this year, she even launched a digital series titled Karenjit Kaur: The Untold Story of Sunny Leone, based on her life. (Indian Express)

ctor Sonam Kapoor, a vegan, has been named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s Person of the Year for 2018.

Sonam has been feted as she sings the praise of eating vegan diets and because she keeps animal skins out of her handbag line for her fashion brand Rheson, apart from taking other action for the welfare of animals.

“Whether she’s enjoying vibrant vegan meals or rallying her fans to do their part to stop animal suffering, Sonam Kapoor never hesitates to help animals any way she can,” PETA India Associate Director Sachin Bangera said in a statement.

“We encourage everyone to take a page out of her book and live with compassion and respect for all beings,” he added.

In 2016, Sonam was named PETA India’s Hottest Vegetarian Celebrity, and she earned a

I want to give credit to the writers. The script never changed. I didn’t have to take anyone’s vision forward. I could use my own vision. I didn’t see any obstacle like that. But it is definitely difficult to step in someone else’s shoes.

So, my future directing project would be easier than this.”

On playing Rani Laxmi Bai, the actor said that nothing could come even close to the image of the queen of Jhansi. “Nothing can match the larger-than-life image of Rani Laxmibai.

Nothing can ever be good enough. If we match up to that image, that would be great,” Kangana said.

When asked about the release date of the historical drama, Kangana said that it was her idea to release the film around Republic Day. “It was my decision to come on Republic Day. I have driven everybody nuts for it. The VFX studio is currently a battleground,” the Manikarnika actor said.

Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi also features Suresh Oberoi, Danny Dengzongpa, Ankita Lokhande and Atul Kulkarni among others in significant roles. (Indian Express)

Compassionate Business Award from the group a year later for her crueltyfree handbag line.

Her past animal advocacy efforts include urging the Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change not to revoke the ban on classroom dissection for university life science and zoology students; calling for a Maharashtra-wide ban on glass-coated manja that can entangle and kill birds; and donating “kind kites” to children to help prevent injuries from manja.

In addition, she frequently speaks out for animals on social media. Past recipients of PETA India’s Person of the Year Award include Anushka Sharma, Sunny Leone, Shashi Tharoor, Kapil Sharma, Hema Malini, R. Madhavan and Jacqueline Fernandez. (Indian Express)

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

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restling star and actor John Cena says Optimus Prime was his favourite Transformer as a child. The actor plays evil Sector 7 agent Jack Burns in Transformers spinoff movie, Bumblebee.

In an interview to Toronto Sun newspaper, Cena said, “I was the right age for it, but I was possibly a little bit

Jeff Bridges to receive Cecil B DeMille award

to my obsession with WWE as a kid.

I loved the good guys. I wasn’t one of those fans that like the bad guys,” he said.

Bumblebee, about the titular Autobot transformer, also stars Hailee Steinfeld as Charlie. Directed

by Travis Knight, Bumblebee has received almost universally positive crit-

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at the wrong time. I grew up with four other brothers and we had to fight for everything we had in our house. I had a wonderful childhood, but it’s not like it was overflowing with gifts and presents, so we had to use our imaginations in certain circumstances.”

“But my favourite, and I know I should say Bumblebee, really was Optimus Prime. He was the leader of essentially the good guys. I hark back

D

C’s latest superhero movie Aquaman swam past the 260 million dollar mark at the global box office, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This figure is minus the domestic (North American) market, where this James Wan directorial releases on December 21.

The Jason Momoa starrer, which hit Indian theatres on December 14, is already a hit with the audiences. It also has mostly positive reviews.

It holds a 70% rating at Rotten Tomatoes, with the consensus being, “Aquaman swims with its entertainingly ludicrous tide, offering up CGI superhero spectacle that delivers energetic action with an emphasis on good oldfashioned fun.”

Aquaman brings back the half-Atlantean and half-human hybrid superhero who gets into a conflict with his half-brother, King Orm, who wants to wage war against the surface world for polluting the oceans.

The movie also stars Amber Heard, Willem Dafoe, Patrick Wilson, Dolph Lundgren, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Nicole Kidman.

In China, the movie has earned 189 million dollars, which Forbes reported is 65 higher than DC’s Justice League and more than double of Wonder Woman. The movie is set to eventually cross Avengers: Age of Ultron’s 240 million dollars and Venom’s 270

Hollywood 49

ical reception. It has a 96% rating at Rotten Tomatoes.

The critical consensus reads, “Bumblebee proves it’s possible to bring fun and a sense of wonder back to a bloated blockbuster franchise — and sets up its own slate of sequels in the bargain.”

In India, Bumblebee is slated to release on January 4, 2019. (Indian Express)

eff Bridges may have once been considered as one of Hollywood’s most underappreciated actors, but next month’s Golden Globe Awards will showcase his life and illustrious career by bestowing him one of its highest honors.

Bridges will receive the Cecil B. DeMille Award during the 76th annual awards ceremony on January 6, 2019, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association announced on Monday.

The actor has been praised for starring in films including Crazy Heart, True Grit, Hell or High Water and The Big Lebowski, which became a cult classic thanks to his nonchalant, knit-sweater wearing character Jeffrey The Dude Lebowski.

HFPA President Meher Tatna said in a statement the Golden Globe winner has “captured hearts and minds” of audiences worldwide.

Bridges, 69, won a Globe in 2010 for best actor role in Crazy Heart, when he remarked at the time during his acceptance speech about “chipping away” at his underappreciated status. He went on to win an Academy Award that

year, and also received previous Globe nominations for his performances in Starman, The Fisher King, Contender and Hell or High Water.

The DeMille Award is given annually to an “individual who has made an incredible impact on the world of entertainment.” Past recipients include Oprah Winfrey, Morgan Freeman, Meryl Streep, Jodie Foster, Barbra Streisand, Sidney Poitier and Lucille Ball.

The Globes next year is also adding the Carol Burnett Award, an accolade that focuses on life achievement in television. The inaugural award will go to the 85-year-old Burnett, a five-time winner at the Globes.

In 1983, Bridges founded the End Hunger Network, a nonprofit dedicated to feeding children globally. Bridges co-executive produced the 1996 television film Hidden in America, which focused on poverty in America.

This year, he appeared in the mystery thriller Bad Times at the El Royale starring Chris Hemsworth, Jon Hamm and Dakota Johnson. (Indian Express)

million dollars. It will then end up as the second-biggest Hollywood movie in China behind Avengers: Infinity War’s 359 million dollars.

In North America, the movie is expected to bow with a 100 million dollars on five-day Christmas corridor. It faces competition from Mary Poppins Returns and Transformers spin-off Bumblebee.

The Indian Express film critic

Shalini Langer gave the film a negative review. In her one-and-a-half-star review, she wrote, “Director Wan seems in an incredible rush, not lingering over any important characters or vital plot points but diving head first into yet another undersea clash. Maybe his brief was more bang for the buck, but how many of those encounters can you enjoy where characters you know little about, their hair floating about, riding an array of sea animals, deploying an astonishing range of light-shooting weapons, clash in a confusing flurry?”

(Indian Express)

B

ohemian Rhapsody, which tells the story of British rock band Queen and its frontman Freddie Mercury, has become the highestgrossing biopic of all time.

The film became a champion at the box office by earning 608 million dollars globally and 175 million dollars domestically since its November 2 release, reported Entertainment Weekly.

Rami Malek essays the role of late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury and while Malek was praised for his portrayal, the film had mixed reviews from the critics who felt that it did not do complete justice with Mercury’s life. Besides, he is also nominated for a Golden Globe.

Bohemian Rhapsody also had a turbulent production to screen transition as director Brian Singer was fired just before the shooting completed, though he retained the credit.

The film’s success, in part, has also made the song Bohemian Rhapsody the most-streamed track of the twentieth century.

The song overtook the likes of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” and Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’Mine,” and is now also the most streamed classic rock song of all time, record company Universal Music Group said in a statement earlier.

(Indian Express)

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

IPL 2019 Auction: Hetmyer sold to RCB for US$588,000 – Delhi Capitals buy Rutherford for US$277,000, Paul US$70,000 Shimron Hetmyer became the first big-ticket purchase at the India Premier League (IPL) 2019 Auction, fetching a winning bid of INR 4.20 crore (US$588,000) from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

T h e W e s t Indian batsman – known Sherfane Rutherford and Shimron t o Hetmyer during CPL 2018 Indian a u d i ences for his sensational hitting during the recent ODI series between the teams – found himself in a fierce tug of war in the opening half hour of the auction in Jaipur on Wednesday.

RCB were actually the last entrants during Hetmyer’s bid, with Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals initially in the fray for the 21-year-old, and Sunrisers uyana Amazon Warriors Hyderabad takStars Shimron Hetmyer, ing the bid up to Rs 4 crore Sherfane Rutherford and (US$560,000).

Keemo Paul were drafted into the Bangalore’s first bid ended up India Premier League for the first being good enough to pick up the time after their performance in the explosive West Indian.

Caribbean Premier League 2018 Hetmyer shot into the Indian edition. mindspace with some astounding

hitting during West Indies’ ODI series in India in October, smashing 106 off 78 balls and 94 off 64 balls in back-to-back games at Guwahati and Visakhapatnam.

The left-hander possesses a healthy career T20 strike rate of 144, already forming a penchant of hitting sixes with ease (26 sixes in 19 T20s, 30 sixes in 20 ODIs).

Guyanese all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford, with a T20 strike-rate of 142 and a First-Class best of 6 for 32, joined the Delhi team for INR 2 crore (approximately US$277,000).

Delhi also capitalised and bought fellow Guyanese Keemo Paul for 50 lakh (approximately US$70,000).

Carlos Brathwaite will resume his Eden Gardens love affair, going to Kolkata Knight Riders as they beat out Kings XI, the franchise with the biggest purse at this auction, to buy him for INR 5 crore (approximately US$694,000). The

Pant, P Shaw, C Munro, J Saxena, K Paul, S Rutherford, C Ingram, A Patel, H Patel, M Kalara, C Morris, A Mishra, R Tewatia, J Yadav, S Lamichhane, B Ayyappa, N Singh, I Sharma, A Khan, K Rabada, and T Boult.

Kings XI Punjab reads: S Singh, S Khan, N Pooran, KL Rahul, C Gayle, M Agarwal, K Nair, D Miler, M Singh, H Brar, A Ayachu, D Nalkande, S Curran, V Chakaravarthy, M Henriques, M Ashwin, Mujeeb Ur Rehman, R Ashwin, A Singh, H Vilojen, M Shami, A Tye, and A Rajpoot.

Kolkata Knight Riders squad reads: J Denly, N Naik, D Karthik, R Uthappa, C Lynn, S Gill, R Singh, S Mundhe, C Brathwaite, A Russell, S Narine, N Rana, P Chawla, K Yadav, P Yara, H Gurney, A Nortje, L Ferguson, P Krishna, S Mavi, and K Nagarkoti.

Mumbai Indians reads: Yuvraj

West Indies all-rounder first made a name for himself in the World T20 final in 2016 when he hit four sixes off four balls to win the title at Eden Gardens.

Oshane Thomas, who is known to hit speeds of 150 kilometres per hour, will do just that for Royals, who acquired him for INR 1.1 crore (approximately US$153,000) Hard-hitting wicketkeeperbatsman Nicholas Pooran will join Kings XI’s squad, for INR 4.2 crore (approximately US$588,000).

Singh, A Singh, R Sharma, I Kishan, S Yadav, S Lad, A Tare, E Lewis, Q de Kock, P Jaswal, H Pandya, K Pandya, A Roy, K Pollard, B Cutting, M Markande, R Chahar, R Dar, B Sran, L Malinga, J Bumrah, M Mc Clenaghan, A Milne, and J Behrendorff.

Rajasthan Royals reads: H Singh, H Klaseen, D Padikkal, S Hetmyer, V Kohli, A de Villers, P Patel, A Nath, P Barman, M Kumar, S Dube, G Singh, W Sundar, P Negi, M Ali, C de Grandhome, M Stoinis, Y Chahal, N Coulternile, M Siraj, T Southee, U Yadav, N Saini, and K Khejroliya.

Sunrisers Hyderabad squad reads: M Guptill, W Saha, J Bairstow, K Williamson, D Warner, M Pandey, D Hooda, R Bhui, S Goswami, Y Pathan, S Al Hassan, M Nabi, A Sharma, V Shankar, R Khan, S Nadeem, B Kumar, S Sharma, T Natarajan, S Kaul, K Ahmed, B Stanlake, and B Thampi.

G

IPL 2019 team squads:

Chennai Super Kings reads: R Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, S Raina, F duPlessis, M Vijay, S Billings, A Rayudu, D Shorey N Jagadeesan, R Jadeja, D Willey, B Bravo, S Watson, K Jadhav, C Brishnoi, M Santner, I Tahir, H Singh, K Sharma, M Sharma, L Ngidi, D Chahar, KM Asif, S Thakur, and M Kumar.

Delhi Capitals reads: A Baines, H Vihari, S Iyer, S Dhawan, R

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Young Warriors Cricket Club receive support from US-based Flat Rate Realty

T

he recently-resuscitated Young Warriors Cricket Club are making rapid strides to return to their former glory.

In an effort to assist that development, Mahaish Ramoutar of Flat Rate Realty, Queens, New York, USA, provided cash to his former cricket club.

On a recent visit to Guyana, Ramoutar said that he was happy to give back to the Club he played for as a kid and has fond memories of those days.

He noted that he was one of the first set of cricketers when the Club was formed under Orin Archer’s leadership, and was very happy to see their growth over the years, as they have produced many fine cricketers, with the latest being West Indies’ newest batting sensation, Shimron Hetmyer.

Ramoutar pledged to garner more help for the Club from former players and persons from the Cumberland area now residing in the USA. Former national player and Coach Hubern Evans thanked Ramoutar for his kind contribution and urged Guyanese in

Mahaish Ramoutar (with white shirt and dark shades) hands over cash to Kwesi Maltay in the presence of Paul Wintz and Coach Hubern Evans

the New York area to support his business so that he could continue to give back to his

place of birth.

Evans continued by saying that it was common that

things that take many years to build could be destroyed easily with poor management and

the YWCC were a good example, emphasising that the administrators who took over the Club, allowed it to go to ruins, with the tractor being destroyed, covers disappeared; and pavilion, fence and the entire facility needing urgent repairs.

He said, however, that there was still hope and boasted that since the resuscitation, the Club have participated in three First-Division competitions run by the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and booked a place in the finals of all three, a significant achievement.

The YWCC have also topped their zone in the NBS Second-Division cricket competition now in progress. He thanked the players for their commitment and the hunger they have displayed so far.

In closing, Evans called on former club members and other community minded citizens to come on board and support the YWCC. He also encouraged parents to come to the ground and bring along their kids to play cricket.

KFC Goodwill Tournament…

Annai regain confidence ahead of Saturday’s clash

A glimpse of the action between Annai and Christianburg-Wismar Secondary

A

fter a stumble in their first game, Annai Secondary returned on day two to thump the Christianburg-Wismar side as Shiva Boys registered their second win.

Annai and Annandale Secondary were the ones battling for a win on Wednesday evening after registering losses on the first night of play.

However, Annai Secondary were the only one of the two teams to get their redemption.

The Rupununi-based team made an excellent display of the skills that were expected to surface since their first 2-0 loss to Shiva Boys, putting their everdominant Linden opponents in a tight spot within minutes of the beginning of the game.

Annai got their work started early as Captain Orville Daniels stepped up to the plate to deliver an early goal in

the fifth minute.

Needless to say, the Christianburg-Wismar side was stunned by Daniels’ flying kick at the net. Caught off guard, the Linden goalkeeper could not regain his composure which led to yet another brilliant goal, this time from Niazz Mohammed in the 12th minute. Visibly having a tough night at this point, Christianburg’s goalkeeper could not help but miss his mark for a third time, allowing Mohammed to net his second goal in the 35th minute.

Down by three goals, Christianburg-Wismar played a better second half, increasing their ball possession.

However, their Region 9 coun-

terparts were too quick for their tactics. In addition, the Annai goalkeeper kept his eyes open, scooping up every Linden attempt which resulted in their inability to muster a goal, paving way for Annai’s 3-0 win.

The last encounter of the evening saw Annandale Secondary coming up against a strong Shiva Boys squad. Minutes into the game, the rain began pouring and Annandale were clearly more acquainted with the slushy conditions than the Trinidadian visitors. Playing to their strengths, the East Coast team took control of the game in

a brief moment of brilliance, but when the time came to score, a neat pass by Omari Glasgow was squandered just inches outside the goal.

When the rain ceased, the Shiva Boys showed their skill as they picked up the pace. Adika Ash was the first to secure a goal when he found the back of the net in the 17th minute after which the half passed quietly. Glasgow was the one to reply for Annandale in the 55th minute. The local team looked promising as their defence held off the Trinidadian boys, but their hopes of a win were crushed by Jason Bristol four minutes before regulation time.

The final day of the Petra-organised KFC Goodwill Tournament will be staged on Saturday, December 22. At the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue, Annai Secondary will come up against Annandale Secondary at 17:00h (5pm) and ChristianburgWismar will take on the Shiva Boys Hindu College at 19:00h (7pm).

The fight between Annandale Secondary and Shiva Boys went down to the wire

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WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Director Future of Caribbean women’s of Sport congratulates cricket in good hands Ramnauth among bright IPL-bound trio –Caribbean prospects

D

irector of Sport, Christopher Jones has sent congratulatory remarks to Guyanese and West I n d i a n players

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones

Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford and Keemo Paul, who have been selected to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019.

Hetmyer was selected by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Rutherford and Paul were selected by Delhi Capitals in Tuesday’s auction held in Jaipur, India.

The Director of Sport also congratulated the three other West Indian players who were selected – Carlos Brathwaite (Barbados); Nicholas Pooran (Trinidad and Tobago) and Oshane Thomas (Jamaica).

According to the release, Jones said, “All of Guyana looks forward to exciting performances from our trio in the marquee tournament, and we will be all glued to the broadcast as we follow their exploits.

“We are assured that they will each represent our proud nation of world-class cricketing pedigree and the Golden Arrowhead with dignity and pride.”

Other West Indian players who were retained for IPL 2019 are Dwayne Bravo (Trinidad and Tobago) –Chennai Super Kings; Chris Gayle (Jamaica) – Kings XI Punjab; Andre Russell (Jamaica) – Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunil Narine (Trinidad and Tobago) – Kolkata Knight Riders.

T

he year 2018 has been a revelation for women’s cricket; the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) female schools’ cricket exposed numerous talents. Ashley Ramnauth who is among these talents, announced herself in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) female Under-17 secondary school T20 franchise cricket, with her magical offspin bowling.

Born on March 7, 2004, Ashley Niveen Ramnauth, of New Area, Cane Field Settlement, East Canje, Berbice, is presently a student of the Canje Secondary School. She started playing cricket at the tender age of 11.

“It all started for me when my brother attended the Rose Hall Canje Community Centre; I told myself that I have to be on that field one day,” Ramnauth told this reporter in an interview.

Located opposite the Young Warriors Cricket Club, the Canje Secondary School is known for producing talented cricketers who are capable of reaching great heights. Kevin Sinclair, the Guyana Under-19 player, was a proud student of the Secondary School, captaining their team in many schools’ tournaments. Ramnauth, who is expected to add to this rich history, is motivated by her father.

The young off-spinner idolises the 25-year-old Bangladesh seam bowler Jahanara Alam. Ramnauth told this reporter that in approximately five years she sees herself in the West Indies women’s team. The Rose Hall Canje club member believes that she is capable enough to play at the highest level. This daughter of Nemcharran Ramnauth and Lalita Devi Meghu has a careerbest of 5-8 in her blooming cricket ca-

reer.

With a number of ICC S t a n d a l o n e

Women’s W o r l d T20 matches played at the National Stadium, Providence, East Coast Demerara, Guyana, Ramnauth was given the Ashley opportunity Ramnauth to witness the poses after likes of Mithali grabbing a Raj, Stafanie five-wicket Taylor and haul Suzie Bates.

(Brandon These outstandCorlette ing women crickphoto) eters have inspired not only Ramnauth but young girls across Guyana.

In the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Female Under-17 Franchise T20 cricket, Ramnauth looked the most technically correct bowler, giving the ball flight, turning and extracting bounce. With the year coming to an end, 2019 may be the most productive year for the young spinner, who has her eyes set on playing regional cricket. Ramnauth is only at the beginning of her career but she may be the future Anisa Mohammed who bowls off-spin. (Brandon Corlette)

Hope leaps into ODI top 10

(C

MC) — Shai Hope's backto-back unbeaten hundreds in the recent one-day series against Bangladesh, has catapulted him into the top 10 of the ICC batting rankings.

In the latest one-day rankings released on Sunday, the 25-year-old Hope jumped 17 spots and now lies at a career-best eighth place.

Indian stroke-maker Virat Kohli continues in number one in an unchanged top five.

Hope finished the three-match series against Bangladesh with 297 runs to be adjudged Man-of-the-Series, even

Shai Hope

though West Indies went down 2-1 in the rubber.

He carved out a superb unbeaten 146 in the series-levelling four-wicket win in Dhaka before hitting 108 not out in the decisive third game which the Caribbean side lost by eight wickets in Sylhet.

Hope now has four career ODI hundreds with three of them coming inside his last seven innings. He averages an outstanding 47 — one of the highest in world cricket among current players.

Shimron Hetmyer is the next bestranked West Indies player at 40th.

WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 23, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Huntley reflects on GABA League as he seeks improvement Shamar Huntley

F

ollowing the recent conclusion of the 2018 Rainforest Water/ Malta Supreme/Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League, Eagles Under-23 player Shamar Huntley reflected on his performance over the basketball season.

He related this to Guyana Times International Sport reporter: “It (the season) had its ups and downs; wasn’t really the outcome I expected for my team, but I’m still proud of the effort my guys put out there for third place in Second Division and fourth in Under-23. Of course, I want complete victory, but we need to train a little harder to get there and this tournament helped us see our flaws and know exactly what each and everyone has to work on individually and as a team so with that being said, I’d say the tournament was good for me and my team.”

Huntley went on to state that from the tournament he has gained experi-

ences that he could not gain anywhere else and has grown as a player, thus seeing his emergence as one of the top three scorers in the tournament for the Under-23 division.

According to Huntley, the tournament has helped him to realise the flaws in his game and has showed him what he needs to work on to get better as a player and a teammate.

The point guard mentioned that he focused a lot on ball handling, stamina and finishing drills, which in turn have amplified his offensive ability.

When asked how instrumental his coach has been throughout the league, Huntley said, “My current coach, Courtney Taylor has actually been the person who first started coaching me back in my high school basketball days. He taught me a lot about basketball fundamentals and pushes me and all my teammates to get better at the game.”

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