Guyana Chronicle E-paper 05-11-2018

FRIDAY 11th May, 2018

No.105271

Lindo Creek Massacre

Boy found cellphone of dead miner – reportedly dropped by soldier, CoI hears – Nigel Torres’ mother cries for justice

PAGE

03 04 PAGE

Coalition must 12 double efforts to advance progress PAGE

– says AFC as it lauds progress made by Gov’t

Body of fisherman in pirate attack washes ashore 03 PAGE

Social cohesion a growing 10 movement of hope – Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

These young dancers perform at the third observance of Social Cohesion Day at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday (Delano Williams photo)

PAGE

Found: Gowkarran Outar

Triangular love affair leaves one dead PAGE

08

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Guyana welcomes Indian investors in sugar industry – President Granger tells India’s visiting state minister PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday informed India’s Minister of State, Satya Paal Singh, that his Government is keen on restoring the sugar industry to profitability and is open to cooperation with the Indian Government and investors from India, which is the largest sugar producing country in the world.

Singh is currently on a

four-day visit to Guyana to meet with Government officials and explore areas of cooperation in an effort to deepen the 50-year-old Guyana-India ties.

Speaking of all the different types of sugar that are produced around the world and are branded ‘Demerara Sugar’, the Head of State said that “we need to develop our capacity to produce pure

Demerara crystals…. We already have trained labour; we need the technology and so we welcome Indian investors in the sugar industry…. It is still a potentially lucrative area for investment,” he said.

The Indian minister spoke of the technologies that have been developed in his country for the sugar industry over the years and said that they are ready to assist Guyana to preserve its sugar industry on which thousands of Guyanese depend for their livelihood.

In December last year, the President had made it clear that there are some necessary adjustments that are required to ensure the industry’s viability, but that Government has no intention of shutting it down.

Meanwhile, Minister Singh expressed his appre-

President David Granger with India’s Minister of State, Dr. Satya Paal Singh, on Wednesday

ciation for Guyana’s full support of India at all international forums including the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which recently held its founding conference in New Delhi, India.

This forum was attended

by President Granger.

“We are happy to be part of the ISA and to be able to contemplate cooperation with the Republic of India, particularly in the area of technology…. Our relations

are very deep and wide and collaboration on environmental issues and energy development are very, very important to us at this time.

Guyana can learn a lot from India…,” he said.

While lauding Guyana’s ‘green’ development agenda, Minister Singh responded that India is willing to assist Guyana in this regard, noting that they have amassed considerable experience and have highly developed technologies in harnessing solar, hydro and wind power.

The minister also spoke of the possibility of assisting Guyana to strengthen its security sector by offering training in the area of forensic science and training for police officers.

President Granger noted that this is an area in which Guyana can benefit from significantly. (Ministry of the Presidency)

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Lindo Creek Massacre

Boy found cellphone of dead miner – reportedly dropped by soldier, CoI hears

By Vanessa Braithwaite A CELL phone belonging to one of the eight miners who were killed at Lindo Creek in 2008, was in the possession of a soldier who had mistakenly dropped it in Linden, the Commission of Inquiry into the mass murder told a forum in the community on Wednesday.

The forum heard that a child, who was 10 years at the time, had picked up the phone and gave it to his mother.

Commissioner of the inquiry, Justice Donald Trotman made this revelation at the Linden outreach held Wednesday evening at the Constabulary Hall. He said the outreach was very pertinent for the Commission’s ability to effectively solve the case, since information reaching the panel indicates that residents of Linden have first-hand information about what occurred. He is

Commissioner of the Lindo Creek CoI, Justice Donald Trotman at the centre of the headtable, flanked by regional leaders and other CoI officials

found on the streets in Linden, right here in Linden; picked up by a small boy who took it home to his mother and his mother then somewhere or the other, knew that the cell phone picked up by her son was in the possession of a soldier and if you put two and two together, then that soldier very

would have hijacked the bus.

Justice Trotman also called on passengers and drivers of the buses to also come forward and share with the Commission what they also know.

“We will keep it confident, we will assure your safety and protection and we will ensure that what you tell us,

A section of the audience at the CoI Linden outreach held at Constabulary Hall

therefore imploring those persons to come forward and say what they know. “We are here because we have information that there are persons in this community who know something about what happen at Lindo Creek. We are not saying that they did anything there but they know who did what and we want to hear from them. We consider it your duty, the duty of those who know, to tell us what happened, so that we and you will be able to sleep better in the years that lie ahead,” Trotman urged.

DEAD MAN’S PHONE Trotman then disclosed that one of the damning revelations is that a cell phone was found in Linden, which is located in the same region as Lindo Creek. “One of the deceased miners had a cell phone and this cell phone was

likely got it from the miner who had it in his possession… the only way that this soldier could have gotten it is if he went at Lindo Creek and got it from the miner; dead or alive,” Trotman related. He is calling on the woman or the boy, who is now 20 years old, to engage the Commission on what they know about the case, without being publicised or incriminated.

While the turnout at the outreach was deemed favourable, several persons only asked questions and made suggestions, but one resident of Linden furnished the Commission with pertinent information. He revealed that two buses that were en route to Linden from Aoraima, were hijacked and some passengers in the bus, who were Lindeners, would have firsthand information on what occurred, from those who

will not be spread about like dry mangoes…we will use it to bring justice to this matter and closure to the feelings of the families of these men and a feeling of reconciliation that something has been done,” Trotman said.

The Linden outreach was the third of its kind while the fourth will be held in Kwakwani after the Commission would have completed its visit at Lindo Creek which is about a three-hour drive from Kwakwani. Trotman said that he is optimistic that something will be found there that will be helpful in reaching a conclusion. “We are going with an open mind; at this place, we are not condemning anybody, we are not accusing anybody, we are not setting out to convict anybody, we will make our findings as we see them, we will make our recommendations as we

formulate them and we will leave it to the appropriate authorities to do the rest and we expect that our findings and our recommendations will be helpful to those authorities to do what is necessary.”

JUSTICE DELAYED IS NOT JUSTICE DENIED Justice Trotman said that the Commission which was appointed by President David Granger is an example of the return of justice to Guyana.

He described the massacre as gruesome, dangerous and atrocious and the Commission was necessary to bring closure to a 10-year-long mystery.

“This Commission will make sure that not only their memories will live on but that justice will be given to the cruel death that they have met… for the past three years, there is an utmost consistent return to justice and much of it that was lost in the past have been regained…this Commission has been resolved that justice that has been delayed for 10

years, will not be denied,” Trotman told Lindeners. He posited that the Commission serves as an example of what needs to be done to solve the various other mysteries and unjust things that happened in the past. This brought comfort to the daughter of Bonny Harry and other relatives who were present at the Commission and who broke down in tears begging that justice be served for her father and the seven other men. “It has been hard, please do something” she sobbed.

SUPPORT FROM REGIONAL LEADERS Several regional leaders of Region 10 were present at the Commission’s outreach and pledged their support to the Commission’s call for Lindeners to come forward in sharing whatever information they have. Region 10 Chairman, Deron Adams, described the massacre as evil and said that there are still too many unanswered questions.

“Therefore, in my capacity as PNCR Region 10 Chairman, we are in full support of his Excellency President David Granger’s appointment of this CoI …and we will ask all persons who have information to cooperate with the Commission that participated in the process,” Adams said.

Representing the Linden Mayor and Town Council was Councillor Lennox Gasper who said “the tragedy is close to our hearts and occurred right in our backyard.” He urged Lindeners to take full opportunity of the Commission’s presence in the region within the next couple of days to speak out on what they knew. Regional Chairman Renis Morian said, “Truth has a long shelf life and truth doesn’t expire; a hundred years from now, truth will always remain truth.” He too is hoping that the Commission’s trip to Region 10 will be worth the while and answers will be brought to the fore.

Body of fisherman in pirate attack washes ashore THE body of fisherman, Gowkarran Outar called “Gavin” washed up ashore at the Number 63 Beach on Thursday.

The discovery was made by local fishermen a little after 12:30 hrs. The men alerted police who took the body to the Skeldon Hospital.

The badly decomposed body had a partial tattoo on the left side chest which aided relatives to positively identify the body as that of Outar.

The elbow to the wrists as well as the head, knees and feet of the body were totally decomposed.

Guyana Chronicle has

confirmed that Outar was working on the ‘Shifanie’ which had five crew members, one of whom is survivor, Sherwin Lovell. The other members are Danesh Persaud called “Vicky”, Ralph Couchman called “Burnham” and Glendory Jones called “Alkaline” and “Joshua”. The boat is owned by Hemanlall Ramsarran who also confirmed to Guyana Chronicle that the tattoo matches that of Outar.

Persaud was the captain of the boat and relatives who spoke with Guyana Chronicle believe that his body was the first to have been discovered on the Wai Wai Bank. This

takes the number of person accounted for on this vessel to three. Only Couchman and Jones are still missing.

The Shifanie is believed to have been the last boat attacked, according to the survivor’s account who said the vessel was attacked after midnight two Saturdays ago.

The first that was attacked is believed to be the ‘Romia’, a little after 18:30hrs on Friday evening, another survivor said.

With this discovery, the final count as of press time was four bodies, five survivors and 11 still missing following the pirate attack on four fishing vessels with 20 fishermen on April 27.

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Nigel Torres’ mother cries for justice

-- as she meets Lindo Creek CoI team

Yonette Torres clenching to an old, rugged pants which belonged to her son, even as she was being consoled by Justice Donald Trotman and team

By Svetlana Marshall CLENCHING an old, rugged pants close to her chest as she cried bitterly, Yonette Torres vowed that the persons responsible for the brutal murder of her son will pay the ultimate price.

The pants, though tattered and worn, is among the remaining material belongings she has of her son, Nigel

Torres, who was among the eight miners who were reportedly tortured, shot and killed before their remains were burnt at a mining camp at Lindo Creek in June 2008, in the Upper Berbice River.

The Joint Services, comprising the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), have been accused of committing the gruesome crime, but

they have long rejected this allegation while laying the blame squarely at the feet of the Rondell “Fine-Man” Rawlins gang.

Ms. Torres is said to have critical information pertaining to the massacre, and on Thursday, Chairman of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman led a team from Linden through the

treacherous Ituni/Kwakwani trail to meet with her.

Sitting a stone’s throw from where she last saw her 17-year-old son at the Kwakwani Waterfront, Torres hinted at having information on the death of her son, but expressed fear for her life.

“And, you know, I have some things to say. I didn’t want to say it; I didn’t want to say it really because you know when you say it, what would be at the back of you.

People say lots of things to me, but I don’t want to say it because of my children and I want to live for them. I have two daughters there, and I have my grandchildren. I look at them and I want to live to see them,” the still grieving woman said as she cried bitterly.

“I am very scared to say what I want to say; I am not going to say anything, but if I die, God is going to take charge of my children,” she added.

Though she could not recall the exact month in 2008 when she last saw her son, Torres noted that it was not long after he had returned

Yonette Torres crying bitterly as she recalled the last moments with her son Nigel Torres

from living with his sister further up the Berbice River.

Financial challenges faced by the family at the time had caused him to drop out of school at an early age, but it was never the intention of his mother to have him work. He took care of his two sisters, farm and kept the environment clean by constantly weeding the yard.

It was while assisting his mother that one of the miners, who had come to know the Torres’ family by frequenting the waterfront at Kwakwani, asked that he, Nigel Torres, take up a job at the diamond mining camp at Lindo Creek.

Torres’ immediate response was reportedly ‘no’ but her husband agreed for him to journey to the interior to mine for diamond.

WAS NOT HAPPY “I wasn’t happy,” she posited, while noting that it was a Sunday morning after requesting a bed sheet and a pair of long boots, her son packed most of his belongs and left for Lindo Creek.

“He said dad I am going to work and help my two sisters, they were very small and he was going to work to help them, and that was the finishing of my son,” Torres said as she continued to cry bitterly.

After several weeks or possible months would have passed, Torres became worried that her son had not returned from the mining camp. In June 2008, the concerned mother said she noticed a strange vehicle at the

Friday, May 11, 2018 - 14:30 & 2:00 hrs Saturday, May 11, 2018 - 14:30 & 2:30 hrs

Kwakwani Waterfront and in the proximity a man stood gazing into the river.

Later she was informed that the “black-clothes” was in the area in search of Rondell ‘Fineman’ Rawlins, who at the time was heading a criminal gang that was causing havoc in the country.

In addition to a number of other “strange vehicles” traversing the area which is located several miles away from Lindo Creek, Torres recalled receiving a phone call from a man who questioned about the last time she saw her son.

In that conversation, the woman disclosed that she had enquired from a number of persons who stated that they saw him and he was ok, but that she was still concerned. “Next thing I heard that my son got killed and was burnt,” she further recalled.

Today, close to 10 years after the massacre occurred, Torres aside from the photos of her son, holds close to her heart a pair of rugged pants as a reminder of the love she and her husband have for their son.

“You know why we loved him, is because he was mannerly, respectful.

He was never rude, he was always kind to us, he was always loving, and I say this with tears in my eyes, I really miss my son and whoever did that, they are going to pay for it, they are going to pay for it… no one feels the pain that a mother feels,” Torres said, as she wept while being consoled by Justice Retired Turn to page 5 ►

DATE: DATE: 26/11/2016 9/5/2018 26/11/2016 10/05/2018

13 14 19 19 02 1 12 14 18 23 26 11 N A 11

06 22 13 21

14 7

21 17

24 2

26/11/2016 10/05/2018

04 4

07 6

03 5

26/11/2016 10/05/2018

05 0

04 1

01 7

26/11/2016 10/05/2018 02 20

09 19

10 4 21 11 2139 1416 18

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Caribbean foreign ministers support Guyana’s sovereignty

Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge (second right) with his CARICOM counterparts at the COFCOR meeting in the Bahamas on Tuesday

FOREIGN service ministers from across the Caribbean have reiterated their unequivocal support for the maintenance and safeguarding of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

At the 21st Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) which convened in Nassau, Bahamas on Monday, ministers noted that the decision of the United Nation (UN) Secretary-General to refer the issue to the International Court of

Justice (ICJ) is in accordance with the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter.

They also believe that it is intended to bring a peaceful and definitive settlement to a longstanding controversy.

Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, attended the two-day conference between May 7 and 8 under the chairmanship of the Bahamas Minister of Foreign Affairs, Darren Allen Henfield.

On March 29, Minister Greenidge, on behalf of the government, submitted its From page 4

Nigel Torres’ mother ...

Trotman and members of his team.

In addition to Nigel Torres, Dax Arokium, Cedric Arokium, Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Clifton Wong and Lancelot Lee are the other victims of the massacre.

Close to 10 years after their murder, Justice Retired Trotman will today lead a

team into Lindo Creek – the scene of the crime – as he continues his investigation.

The Commission’s Attorney Patrice Henry and Public Relations Officer, Melanie Morris are part of the team.

It is hoped that by the conclusion of this inquiry, the families of the deceased will received the closure they seek.

application to the ICJ, requesting the court to confirm the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Arbitral Award regarding the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Venezuela is contending that the 1899 Arbitral Award giving rights to Guyana over its territorial boundary is null and void.

The longstanding controversy started during the second half of the nineteenth century, between Venezuela and Great Britain over the location of the border between its colony of British Guiana

and the Spanish-speaking country. It continued until an Arbitral Tribunal was empanelled in 1897 to determine the borders and issued an Arbitral Award on October 3, 1899.

However, Venezuela has criticised the decision, stating only the 1966 Geneva Convention can reach a peaceful solution. The two countries, under the 1966 Geneva Agreement, turned to the UN secretary-general to resolve what became a controversy under the Charter of the UN.

Man arrested for rape of girl, 9

POLICE at Mabaruma have arrested a man who allegedly raped a nineyear-old girl this week at a border community in the North West District.

According to reports from Mabaruma, the child was rushed to the hospital in

the town for treatment. Her condition was deemed serious and she was air-dashed to the city after doctors observed that she was suffering from internal bleeding.

The suspect remains in custody as the police continue their investigation.

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Three years on

TODAY marks three years since Guyanese cast their ballots in the General and Regional Elections (GRE), which has seen a shift in the country’s political dynamics.

After 23 years in the executive, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) lost the confidence of the majority and was placed in the Opposition. Preceding the 2015 GRE was the results of 2011, when the incumbent government lost majority control of the National Assembly but gained the plurality to form the Executive. 2011 was the first time in post-independent Guyana that a sitting Executive did not have majority control in the National Assembly. This signalled the beginning of obvious change in the determination of voting patterns and results.

Citizens became more alert and interested in the management of the country’s affairs and conduct of their elected representatives in the discharge of duties on their behalf.

This level of awareness and consciousness were in part influenced by global dynamics, a few local militant voices, and increasing presence and access to media--formal and social.

Guyanese not only had the opportunity to share their experiences and engage in feedback unhindered by geographic constrain, but also benefitted from interaction with overseas counterparts and events happening in other countries. This atmosphere educated and served as motivation more particularly for the young and techno savvy to get involved in politics. The young, which makes up more than half of the population and once considered a relative apathetic voting bloc, rose from this state and decided they were going to ‘Vote like a Boss.’ The vote for them in 2015 represented an important tool to personally effect change in their lives

through the political process. To the incumbent’s credit--A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) --during their period in opposition and having held the majority in the Legislature, they succeeded in shining light on the management of the nation’s business under the presidency of Messrs Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar. Exposure of mismanagement of the nation’s resources and intolerance, demonstrated to those who questioned same, contributed to the people registering their dissatisfaction via their votes.

The APNU+AFC, running as a single force against the PPP/C and the platform they campaigned on, instilled confidence among sections of society that a change, consistent with their desire, is possible and worthy of working towards. This platform addressed what the people considered important issues, such as unity, accountable government, respect for citizens’ views, rights and the rule of law, and the promise of a ‘Good Life.’

Three years after there will obviously be reflections and deliberations as to whether 11th May 2015 turned out to or is morphing into what the people voted for. This is the nature of free speech in a democracy. That being said, there has been movement in the direction, as promised to the people. For instance, local government elections were held, the Anti-Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism Bill passed, reduction of the Berbice Bridge toll, restoration of sanitary conditions in Georgetown and its environs. Billions have been spent in building roads in the hinterland and upgrading those on the coastland. Guyana has made tremendous strides in repairing its tattered inter-

national image and has finally gotten the United Nations to send the decades-old border controversy with Venezuela for juridical settlement at the International Court of Justice. Additionally, parliamentary norms are being observed; rights and constitutional commissions established. There is greater transparency in the public sphere, with Guyana moving up the corruption index where it was buried under the PPP administration. Recently, we heard of the country’s press freedom rating climbing five points on the index and our response to narco and human trafficking have been lauded.

As President David Granger recently said, his Government is a learning government and while learning, teething problems would be expected during this period.

That being said, the government has to be mindful of the awareness and awakening of militancy in the people.

Where conduct considered unsavory during former governments, it is not unreasonable to expect manifestation of these will create outcries. From 2011, Guyanese are seeing themselves personally invested in the political processes. President Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, in recognition and appreciation of this, campaigned on commitment to govern through inclusionary democracy and on assuming offices, the people were told by the president to hold his administration accountable.

King’s call for retrenchment at Georgetown municipality Dear Editor, I WOULD like to throw my support behind the Town Clerk of Georgetown with regard to his suggestion to retrench workers from the top heavy, overstaffed, underutilized and poorly equipped municipal workforce. As the old people would say, ‘You should never hang your hat where your hand can’t reach’.

He should begin by disposing with the Public Relations Section from whence he came, as it serves no meaningful purpose in the realities of today’s Georgetown. The citizens of our capital are not interested in spin doctoring, in the dissemination of propaganda and in their feeble attempts to sugarcoat the failings, the ineptitude and inabilities of the Council. Instead of facilitating regular town hall-styled meetings, maintaining a healthy

online municipal presence, producing newspapers/newsletters and seeking to have their own city radio/television stations, the staff of that section can instead be seen idling all day long, taking selfies and just goofing off.

He should then move to dismantle and discard the Internal Audit section, a division just like the PR section that is costing the citizenry millions of dollars each month, with nothing worthwhile to show for it. The municipality’s financial and accounting systems are the most duplicitous ever, which have not been audited or qualified in decades. Financial regulations are broken on a daily basis, yet the members of the Internal Audit section are completely unconcerned, if not happy, with the way things are there.

Why does the Council need a Cemetery Section with gangs of workers in place, when these workers are never allowed to maintain

the cemetery on a regular basis, but what is allowed at the cemetery instead is that it is allowed to flourish into a rainforest jungle, with periodic clean-up campaigns that are effected by private contractors who are granted these jobs without any competitive bidding process, but which cost the citizens hundreds of millions of dollars.

He should then turn his attention to reverting the big fancy Human Resource Department to the more modest Personnel Section it once was. The gratuitous upgrade of this section is merely costing the city millions of dollars more each month with the instituting of several new and elaborate positions, but which has achieved nothing more than to facilitate and maintain the nepotism, cronyism and favouritism within the Council. This bungling department, it should be noted, oversees the non-payments of deductions to GRA, NIS,

etc. and remains as inept as it were when it had been just a little section.

The Warden section that was recently set up needs to be immediately taken to pieces. This section that is costing the Council millions upon millions is stuffed with ‘friends and family’ who have nothing to do but skylark all day, with some even going home and taking a siesta during the day. Last, but certainly not least, he should retrench himself and his many assistants who are blameworthy for the total destruction of the financial viability, proper accounting systems and the good governance within the Council within the last three years.

Regards Sambu Jacobus

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Jagan used political and Marxist constructs to mask his capitulation to Indian racial interest Dear Editor, I WRITE to take issue with Peeping Tom on an aspect of the views he expressed in his column in Kaieteur News of Sunday, May 06, 2018, under the caption, when he proclaimed “Cheddi was no racist!”.

It is not my intention here to deal with the issue as to whether or not Cheddi Jagan was a racist, since in my estimation, neither Jagan nor Burnham were racists. However, both men consciously manipulated Guyanese racial insecurity for their political advantage.

However, it is my intention to challenge the Peeper’s contention that there is no justifiable basis for the accusation that race consider-

ation was a factor in Dr. Jagan’s position on West Indian Federation.

In his column Tom wrote, “…it is highly ironic that a revisionist has sought to instead cast the glare on Cheddi Jagan, accusing him of not supporting Federation because of ethnic considerations.” I also noted that a similar position was articulated by Mr. Ralph Ramkarran in his Conversation Tree column in the Stabroek News of March 25. 2018, that was captioned “Cheddi Jagan on West Indies Federation: CLR James on Cheddi Jagan”.

The evidence that race considerations played a role in Jagan’s and the PPP’s position on Federation is found in the PPP leader’s speech to the party’s 1956 Congress. To be more specific, the information

is on page 15, starting at line 6 of the last paragraph. It reads as follows: “What is the position in Guiana? Imperialism – Bookers, the Sugar Producers’ Association – has declared its support. The native capitalists (Peter D’Aguiar and other Portuguese elements) in the Chamber of Commerce join the imperialists representatives in this body in support of Federation, but for different reasons – protection in a wider home market. The Indians feeling as they do, a sense of national oppression, are almost a 100% opposed to Federation. This is why the Indian native capitalist who predominates in the Junior Chamber of Commerce go against their class interests and oppose Federation.

The Indian capitalist up to this stage

puts his ‘national’ interest before his ‘class’ interest. Consequently, he can be a resolute ally against imperialism within those considerations.

Rahaman Gajraj is the only Indian capitalist who supports Federation.

This is due to political opportunism – support of imperialism by virtue of his position as a nominated member of the Executive Council – than to class interests”.

Here, Jagan has used political and Marxist constructs to mask his capitulation to Indian racial interest when he said the Indian capitalists put their ‘national interest before their class interest and are resolute allies against imperialism.

Honestly, I don’t think that the above information and its logical inference is not known to Peeping

Tom or to those persons like Ralph Ramkaran, who have had a long historic relationship with the PPP. These persons continue to ignore this type of evidence because it suits their purpose of exorcising race imperatives from the politics of Dr. Jagan and the PPP. Editor, I engage Peeping Tom on this matter in order to educate the younger generation about the dangers that are inherent in political propaganda and historical revisionism.

Regards Tacuma Ogunseye

GUAMC alarmed at number of women being murdered Dear Editor THE Guyana United Apostolic Mystical Council (GUAMC) is alarmed at the number of women murdered within recent times.

Violence against women seems to be a norm in our society. This widespread social ill has left some voiceless people, especially women, maimed or dead at the hands of the abuser.

This trend cannot be allowed to continue since many innocent children are left to come to grips with the sad reality that their mother, grandmother or sibling was taken away by someone who was expected to love, protect, provide for and celebrate them. Many children have witnessed the violent attacks and have to live through this traumatic experience with little or no help.

The Domestic Violence

Act is more than two decades old while police officers and other stakeholders would have received the requisite training and skills.

However, some women are mocked or poorly handled when they report instances of domestic violence.

GUAMC is calling for the Law to be enforced. Perpetrators must be prosecuted condignly and even those who make a mockery of the Act should be penalized.

In addition, the executive and members of GUAMC urge the relevant authorities to strengthen the systems that are in place.

GUAMC, the umbrella organization for Faithists Tabernacles/Mission Houses

in Guyana, stand resolute with those who have lost their loved ones due to domestic violence.

We wish to salute Ms. Bonita Montaque, President/Founder of United Bridge Builders Mission

Guyana-USA and team for successfully staging the largest march against domestic violence in Guyana.

Regards ‘ The Guyana United Apostolic Mystical Council

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Triangular love affair leaves one dead

By Vanessa Braithwaite

A Triangular love affair has left a mother of five mourning, her partner with whom she shared an 11-year visiting relationship dead and her secret lover on the run. Police in E’ Division are investigating the murder which occurred around 00:10 hrs on May 10 at 1074 Cinderella City, Mackenzie, Linden. Dead is taxi driver, Claude DeJounge, 40, called “Sonno” of 915 South Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Linden.

DeJounge was allegedly

stabbed to death by Corwyn Aurther, 34, called “Cross eye” of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden.

The deceased was at the time at his partner, Tanya Samuels, 35, home when Aurther, with whom Tanya allegedly shared a secret relationship, entered the home via a front window and allegedly dealt DeJounge three stabs to his neck, shoulder and abdomen while he was asleep.

When Guyana Chronicle visited the home of Samuels, she was too distraught to speak but her eldest son, Cleon Samuels,

related what had occurred.

He described the act as a premeditated one, since Aurther, earlier in the night, burnt his clothes and his identification card at the very backyard of Samuels.

He said he had stepped out at the time the murder occurred, but when he came home back, DeJounge was laying lifeless in a chair before he was rushed to the hospital.

His four other siblings witnessed the murder.

“He was sleeping and by he lay down on his back and like he (Aurther) jump through from the window;

Tanya Samuels

my two second brother went in the chair. He come easy, he hide the knife, the cutlass and he had he rambo knife, the man (DeJounge) was sleeping so deep like the first jook, he aint feel it and my mother feel the heaviness and when she open she eye, she start halla and he (Aurther) said ‘shhh’ and he firing jook, he saying, ‘I gah tek you soul, I gotta tek you soul’,” Cleon related.

DeJounge, he said, was helpless because he was trapped in both the sheet and bed net. After allegedly stabbing him three times, Aurther made good his es-

Killed: Claude DeJounge called “Sonno”

cape.

“He lose a lot of blood, when I came he was done (lifeless). We left shock because this boy (Aurther) does come, we does cook and enjoy we self. Right now he calling me and me mother, but a half hour ago, he tell me he deh over the river in some back in some home,” he added.

According to police report, prior to the stabbing, Aurther was reportedly smoking marijuana and DeJounge became annoyed and asked him to leave the premises.

He lives just a few houses away from Samuels. The police said Aurther texted DeYounge, telling him that he will make his life a living hell. Samuels, who witnessed the entire ordeal, started to scream. She also tried to hold back the suspect who threatened to also stab her. He reportedly told her “Is you cause that, I want he head; I get poison to drink when I done”.

The suspect then grabbed her hand and took her out the house, telling her not to tend to the accused. However, she managed to get lose and he ran away with the knife, saying he was going to drink poison.

The police believe that Aurther is hiding out in Wisroc and they are currently combing the area.

Aurther is a known questionable character in Linden who has been incarcerated for alleged rape and larceny. Meanwhile, DeJounge was described as a quiet, peaceful and hardworking man. In addition to working taxi, he was also a construction worker and a truck driver.

The house in which the murder occurred

Three held for theft at Parika store POLICE attached to the Parika Police Station, West Coast of Demerara, have arrested three persons in connection with the break and enter and larceny of Parika N and J Wholesale and Retail Depot.

According to businessman Bhari Harrinarine, the police efforts should be commended since their investigations have led to the arrest of three of the men.

Several of the household items were also recovered but none of the suspects have confessed to the crime.

The businessman, who operates a supermarket at Bartica, received a call early on Thursday morning from a neighbour that his store and bond at Parika had been vandalised.

When checks were made, the grill works were removed and several groceries along

with household appliances were missing.

Harrinarine said the thieves charted away groceries as well as appliances amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

An assessment is currently being done to ascertain what are the items stolen.

Thus far, blenders, pressure washer, pumps and generator are said to be among the items stolen.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

PM, visiting Indian minister hold talks on a range of issues PRIME MINISTER Moses Nagamootoo on Thursday met with India’s State Minister, Dr. Satya Paal Singh, during a courtesy call at the Prime Minister’s official residence.

Singh is currently on a four-day visit to Guyana to meet with Government officials and explore areas of cooperation in an effort to deepen the 50-year-old Guyana-India ties.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo was joined by Sita Nagamootoo and a

delegation of ministers of government, which included Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe; Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Minister of Public Telecommunication, Catherine Hughes; and Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma.

Accompanying India’s State Minister was India’s Ambassador to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam and Mrs. Anu Mahal-

ingam. The visiting delegation was treated to lunch by the prime minister.

Thursday’s meeting follows a courtesy call paid on President David Granger Wednesday. At that meeting, President Granger told the visiting minister that his Government is keen on restoring the sugar industry to profitability and is open to cooperation with the Indian Government and investors from India, which is the largest sugar producing country in the world.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo exchanges handshake with India’s State Minister, Dr. Satya Paal Singh, during a courtesy call at the Prime Minister’s official residence

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and several senior government ministers in discussion with India’s State Minister, Dr. Satya Paal Singh, who was accompanied by India’s Ambassador to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam

Crook pretending to be police officer busted HEMANT Shilchand Narine, 43, of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and Champagne, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara was on Thursday arrested for pretending to be a police officer solving a rape case.

He also obtained $23,000 from a housewife at La Union, Essequibo Coast, under false pretense between May 9 and May 10.

Information revealed that the victim was at home when Narine came in front of her yard with a car and claimed that he was a police officer and he was investigating a

rape matter.

The woman believed him and told him that earlier in the day she had received a court order stating she has to repay someone some money. Continuing the conversation, she went on to tell him about an accident involving her daughter.

The man then asked her to photocopy her documents and demanded she pay him $23,000. The matter was reported and the man was arrested by police and told of the allegation. He then admitted to collecting the money.

Police are continuing their investigations.

The Indian minister in turn spoke of the technologies that have been developed in his country

for the sugar industry over the years and said that they are ready to assist Guyana to preserve its

sugar industry on which thousands of Guyanese depend for their livelihood.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Medical university plans to build state-of-the-art campus

By Lisa Hamilton GUYANA’S most recent medical school, the Lincoln American University (LAU), has plans to construct a state-of-the-art campus as it aim to improve the provision of health care education here.

At a press conference on Tuesday at the university’s current location on Water and Barrack Streets, Kingston,

Georgetown, the institution’s head and other stakeholders met to reveal some notable accomplishments and future plans.

Addressing the gathering, Assistant Dean Dr. Wesley Torrington said although the university has only been operating in Guyana for one and a half years, much work has been invested into its development.

Torrington revealed that

the institute is working assiduously to acquire land for the building of a new campus which will house a dormitory, classrooms, a hospital, an administrative block, library and a supermarket.

In addition, discussions are ongoing for the introduction of other programmes such as a medical ultrasound programme and a Master’s of Public Health programme.

Plans are also in the pipeLincoln American University President, Professor Syed Washim

Lincoln American University Assistant Dean, Dr. Wesley Torrington

line for students to undergo their clinical rotations in the US, even though completing them locally will still remain an option.

Torrington said too, that the university offers competitive prices, especially to local students, with the provision of scholarships and tuition reductions.

One of the reasons the institution stands out was attributed to the facilities it provides such as histology, microbiology, computer, chemistry and biochemistry

laboratories, all with the ability to accommodate some 60 students.

“We have perhaps the best environment around for the universities that are medical universities in Guyana.

This is the only university you can come to where you can study in comfort with fully AC and carpeted rooms and multi-media facilities already set up. You wouldn’t find those kind of facilities anywhere in Guyana, so this is why we want to open ourselves to you and offer you

the opportunity to come and visit us and, more so, to come and study with us so that we can share with you a quality education that you would be proud of,” Torrington said.

Speaking briefly, president of the university, Professor Syed K. Washim said the construction for the new campus should be completed within the next 10-12 months.

“When we established this Lincoln American University our main reason was to provide excellent health care education. We wanted to establish the best medical school in the Caribbean,” Washim remarked.

Students at LAU have access to the pre-medical programme, Doctor of Medicine (MD) Programme, Clinical Science Programme and Basic Science Programme.

LAU boasts an internationally experienced faculty and is accredited by organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Medical Council of India (MCI).

Social cohesion a growing movement of hope – Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

By Lisa Hamilton PRIME MINISTER Moses Nagamootoo on Thursday said social cohesion is no longer a dream but a growing movement which gives much hope to the future.

The prime minister expressed these sentiments at Social Cohesion Day held at the National Culture Centre and had in attendance members of the Government and diplomatic corps, students, teachers and other special invitees.

Guided by the theme, “Celebrating Lasting Relationships in a Diverse Society”, this year marks the third observance of Social Cohesion Day which was first introduced on May 11th, 2016.

The event is arranged annually by the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Social Cohesion Culture, Youth and Sport and signifies the unifying of all Guyanese.

Delivering the feature remarks, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said Guyana as a

multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation must fight against the marginalisation, exclusion and discrimination against any group of persons.

During his address, he spoke of the recent pirate attack on 20 fishermen, mostly Guyanese in Surinamese waters, resulting in the deaths of several of them.

“It is enough for fishermen to contend with the angry and sometimes treacherous waves and unfriendly weather as they risk their lives which always place their loved ones in anxiety and uncertainty. But to share the sea with murderous men is at the root of the tragedy that has taken too many lives,” he remarked.

These actions, he said, can have “far reaching effects on social cohesion” and, at such a time, citizens must stand in solidarity with the loved ones of the victims.

At that point in his speech, the prime minster requested members of the audience to stand and ob-

serve a moment of silence in respect to the memory of the murdered fishermen.

Nagamootoo then pointed out that history shows that with the absence of social cohesion, there have been wars, mass migrations and suffering which is one of the reasons the Government thought it best to establish a social cohesion ministry.

He reminded that May 11 also marks the anniversary of the 2015 elections when citizens elected a “rainbow coalition” of six parties which unified with a mission to safeguard the “cultural strands of our society”.

OVERARCHING ROLE “When we formed our new Government in 2015, we identified social cohesion as having an overarching role in unifying our beloved country.

Some of the usual critics and cynics laughed at us but here we are, after three years, celebrating social cohesion, not as a ministry, but as a way of life,” Nagamootoo said.

Turn to page 15 ►

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Kitty roundabout on track for Independence opening THE Kitty roundabout is scheduled to be officially opened to motorists within the next three weeks, officials of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said Thursday. The project, which is approximately 98 per cent complete, is in its final stage with road markings and installation of signs ongoing.

At a press conference Thursday at the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, design engineer, Imran Baksh explained that the previous intersection was transformed to a roundabout because there will be fewer collision points, while traffic delays will be significantly reduced.

“It [roundabout] also allows for reduced delays, since you would not have to stop at the intersection.

It reduces travel time and fuel consumption and importantly, reduces the severity of collisions,” Baksh explained.

The previous intersection was a “channeled and signalised” main access route into Georgetown. It also consisted of six legs: Kitty Public Road, Vlissingen Road, JB Chandisingh Street, Carifesta Avenue, Seawall road and Rupert Craig Highway.

According to Baksh, the current intersection at the roundabout has three stages of movements and five stages of signalisation.

In the first stage, vehicles turning right from Carifesta Avenue are

Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s design engineer, Imran Baksh

Design engineer, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jorge Clinton

Senior engineer, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Sherod Parkinson

allowed to go and vehicles heading west along the Kitty Public Road have to yield before making a right turn.

In the second stage, vehicles that were previously turning right from Carifesta Avenue onto Vlissengen Road will now stop and allow vehicles to go to Kitty Public Road.

In the final stage, vehicles heading north along JB Chandisingh Street and turning onto Rupert Craig Highway will now be allowed to go, as a consequence, vehicles west-bound and east-bound will be required to stop.

The roundabout was also the best option for the intersection, since an analysis has determined that there are now 30-seconds delays as opposed to the previous 80 seconds.

The analysis also recommended that traffic signals be installed west-bound to Kitty Public Road and north-bound to JB Chandisingh Street. The lights will only be utilised during peak hours.

Meanwhile, design engineer, Jorge Clinton said motorists must not overtake while using the roundabout; they must adhere to the speed limit which is 30 kilometer per hour, and must not stop in the circulatory lanes.

Should there be an emergency vehicle behind a motorist, there should be no stopping. Instead, the motorist should continue through the roundabout and pull over after safely leaving the

roundabout.

Clinton said too that motorists should never drive alongside a truck as the truck might require additional space to safely manoeuvre the circulating lane.

Moreover, the engineer said pedestrians must give way to vehicles entering and exiting the roundabout and must also use the designated crosswalks and never cross the circulatory lanes.

Additionally, there are two bypass lanes from the Kitty Public Road to Vlissengen Road and from

Trotman meets Mexican Petroleum Institute delegation

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, along with the delegation from the Mexican Institute of Petroleum (IMP) and officers of the Ministry of Natural Resources

NATURAL Resources Minister Raphael Trotman and a team of officials from his ministry met with Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Iván Sierra and a delegation from the Mexican Institute of Petroleum (IMP).

The meeting was held to further update, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the IMP in March 2017, to facilitate cooperation in scientific and technology exchanges and capacity building within Guyana’s emerging petroleum sector.

To date, one young Guy-

anese is on a post-graduate scholarship to the IMP and a technical officer was able to observe an offshore environmental baseline study.

Since March 2017, the IMP has opened a new deep-water technology research facility which houses six state-of-the-art labs, a centre for evaluation and accreditation of labour skills and competence, which is recognised to award both Mexican and international certificates of accreditation and has carried out pioneering work on its first social baseline study.

In addition to the technical assistance and training to

produce three white papers on the development of a petroleum training institute, legislative framework and regulatory framework, the IMP has now introduced a fourth white paper on oil field management.

The ministry is pleased to announce that a delegation of four officers will be travelling to Mexico within the next quarter of 2018, as part of this technical exchange exercise. The Natural Resources Ministry and IMP also agreed to pursue a broader framework of scientific and technology exchanges through the University of Guyana. (DPI)

JB Chandisingh Road to Carifesta Avenue. There will be no entry to the Seawall Road which has a wide opening for large trucks.

Meanwhile, senior engineer, Sherod Parkinson urged motorists to practice the ‘five-Cs – Care, Caution, Consideration, Courtesy and Commonsense, when using the roundabout.

He said “They are far more important when using the roundabout.

We have to be careful, considerate and cautious, looking out for other drivers and use the roundabout in a manner that would allow for everybody to get out safely.”

The roundabout is partially opened to traffic and is expected to be fully opened by Independence Day. At the intersection, there is a circle with an inscribed diameter of 60 metres, a circulatory lane of 11 metres and a truck apron of 2 metres.

Earlier in the year, a $78.9M contract was awarded to S. Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and Construction Services for works on the roundabout. (DPI)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Coalition must double efforts to advance progress

– says AFC as it lauds progress made by Gov’t

ACKNOWLEGING that the APNU+AFC coalition government must double its efforts to “advance progress” in the areas of constitutional reform, full liberalisation of the telecommunications sectors and providing stable and reliable electricity, the Alliance For Change (AFC) said during the past three years Guyana has been able to unlock its “long lamented potential”.

In a statement on the eve of the coalition’s third anniversary, the AFC said “the critical groundwork has been completed in each of these areas and efforts will be made to bring these to a level of acceptability in the shortest possible timeframe.”

The political party said Guyana is poised for massive infrastructural, economic and social transformation which will pole-vault the country into being a hemispheric leader and pace-setter.

“A better, prosperous and glorious Guyana lies in wait for us. We need, as Guyanese, to press ahead and remain committed and optimistic,” the statement said while noting that the realisation of the good life for all remains a top priority not only for the AFC but the coalition government.

The APNU+AFC signed the Cummingsburg Accord back in 2015 to enter into a pre-election coalition. On Thursday, the AFC reaffirmed its decision to sign the Accord, noting that it was “correct and in the best national interest”.

“This historic agreement, which followed the AFC-piloted No Confidence Motion in the former regime, laid the foundation for the removal of the oppressive PPP from office and the installation of a true government of national unity under the Presidency of His Excellency David Granger and Prime Ministership of the Honourable Moses Nagamootoo,” the party stated.

According to the AFC, since taking office in May 2015, “there has been hitherto unimaginable advancement in all sectors and spheres of life in Guyana”.

The party pointed to public servants benefitting from “significant increase” in salaries; lower VAT rate, lower taxes, a higher tax threshold, higher minimum wage and better pensions.

“There is a better and wider delivery of a higher quality of education and health care all across the land,” AFC said. In the area of infrastructure, the party

noted what it considers to be a “national revolution” with new and better road across the country, particularly in Mabaruma, Mahdia and the East Bank of Berbice.

BETTER INFRASTRUCTURE New pedestrian overpasses, walkways and sidewalks, lighted streets and roadways in the Corentyne and Mocha-Arcadia as well as renovated bridges such as all along the East Coast Demerara were also highlighted by the party.

“The epidemic of piracy in Guyana’s waters has been eliminated, there is vastly improved security for citizens, and the administration of justice, which was decimated under the PPP, has been overhauled and advanced.”

The AFC pointed to the cleaning up and beautification of Georgetown as well as training and scholarships for public servants, the police and among other categories of Guyanese professionals.

Additionally, the party said “Guyana has mounted a strategically solid and astute defence of its territorial integrity while at the same time restoring the country’s previously tattered image on the international stage”.

The party believes that there has been resounding investor confidence here, and as such, work will continue to strengthen the country’s climate and legal framework for investment.

INVESTOR CONFIDENCE As an example of investor confidence growing, the AFC said Guyana for the first time has been able to host multiple major meetings, conferences, summits and expos, including GIPEX, CFATF, judges and magistrates and tourism.

In the telecommunications sector, the AFC noted that it is undergoing a “major revolution” with over 100 ICT Hubs built and commissioned in every corner of Guyana and faster and free Internet services provided countrywide.

“The lot of our long-ma-

ligned indigenous peoples has improved ten-fold. Whereas previously they were disrespected, side-lined and given token handouts during election campaign cycles, they are now consulted, supported and treated as equal Guyanese and citizens. Training and funding geared towards self-reliance through various programmes and initiatives have been launched and are on-going,” the statement noted.

The AFC contends that the coalition government has deftly handled, without major incident, disasters and difficult situations such as flooding in 2015 and the prison break and fire and the relocation of over 1000 prisoners overnight.

“Despite agenda-fuelled criticisms, Guyana’s fasttrack to first oil in 2020 is moving apace with all the

requisite frameworks and legal mechanisms being advanced. This has been done studiously and following wide consultation and an insistence on engaging with the public at every level.”

In the agriculture sector, drainage and irrigation, farm-to-market roads and other infrastructure have been improved considerably, the party noted while pointing to the rice sector which is undergoing a resounding rebound following diligent work on securing new overseas markets – particularly in Mexico as pursued by Prime Minister Nagamootoo.

The price for paddy is steadily rising, resulting in confidence among rice farmers. New townships and regional radio stations are also highlights of the coalition government’s tenure.

UN mission meets AG on electoral support

Attorney General Basil Williams and officers of the Legal Affairs Ministry with members of the UNDP team

A UNITED Nations Development Programme (UNDP) team on Thursday met with Attorney General (AG) Basil Williams on a request made

by GECOM for provision of technical assistance in preparation for the 2018 Local Government Elections and 2020 General Elections in Guyana.

A release said the UN team consisted of Hassan Sesay (Senior Electoral/ Political Affairs Officer), Fernanda Lopes (Election/ Governance Expert) and Guillermo Kendall (Senior Political Affairs Officer).

The aim of the visit was to discuss with the attorney general the purpose of the Needs Assessment Mission (NAM) whose functions

are to evaluate the current and electoral environment in Guyana, and assess the form of future UN electoral assistance.

The NAM will recommend the type of assistance that should be provided and the parameters, including the length of assistance, and modalities that will govern such assistance.

The discussion covered a spectrum of issues that will be dealt with in preparation for the local government and the general elections. Those issues include the tabulation of results process; developing the necessary software to expedite the process; the biometric instrument used at polling stations; veri-

fications of electoral listings; and to ensure security at the polling stations.

UNDP will render support and guidelines in those capacities and where else necessary. At the end of the visit, a report will be prepared with recommendations which will be submitted to UNDP Guyana.

The minister guarantees his support in this process between GECOM and UNDP. The meeting was also attended

by Ministry of Legal Affairs Chief Parliamentary Council, Charles Fung-aFatt SC; Joann Bond; Solicitor General Kim Kyte; State Solicitor, Ayana Mc Calmon; and Legislative Dafting Consultant, Ananda Dhurjon.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Arrival Day Monument commissioned at Enmore The merry-go-round for differently-abled children in use

By Clifford Stanley A NEW Monument Garden, named the Peepal Garden at Enmore, East Coast Demerara, was commissioned by former First Lady, Varshani Singh, on Indian Arrival Day, May 5.

The monument pays homage to Guyanese Indian ancestors and is situated in a park that has unique features catering for children, seniors and the differently-abled.

During a brief presentation, Singh said the site was appropriate for the monument garden since it was the location of the first mandir built by Indian indentured servants on their arrival at Enmore Estate over 100 years ago.

She disclosed that the new Monument Garden project at Enmore has been

funded through community fundraising and monetary donations from persons in Guyana, UK, USA and Canada over the past eight years.

The management committee also received donations in kind, ranging from technical expertise to actual labour and services, the former first lady said.

The garden is in the first phase of development which includes the installation of play equipment, signage and the strengthening of the infrastructure.

The management committee has created and installed play equipment, including wheelchair-friendly equipment for seniors and children who are differently-abled and physically challenged.

“Peepal Tree recognises the rights and needs of everyone, regardless of age or

physical ability to be able to play, hence, the unique features we have begun to install at the Peepal Garden,” she stressed.

She said too that recognising the need for respect and protection of the environment, the park will be designed to use solar and wind power and there will be recycling of waste so that the park will become a natural classroom, giving children first-hand experience of nature flowers, trees, insects, birds, animals and all that goes with caring for a garden from planting to harvesting.

The plaque on the monument reads “In memory and in honour of all indentured labourers lest we ever forget their sacrifice and struggle for us.”

The garden will feature a logie on site with trulie roof, mud walls, cow mouth,

Members of the management committee of the Peepal Tree Monument Garden

daabed bottom house and latrine.

“This exhibit will bring to life 1838 and beyond, for us to remember, appreciate and respect the humble beginnings of our ancestors, the sacrifice and the great effort they made to make the lives of us--the generations to follow--easier,” Singh said.

The garden will also be equipped with a library and research centre which will collect the stories of these humanitarian giants which had

never been written before, she said.

Singh thanked all the friends and donors who had made the commissioning of the monument garden possible The Management Committee for the project comprises Bhowandai Somaroo (President); Youlanda Vasconcellos (Secretary), Sattie Sasenarine (Treasurer); Amaraydha Kartick and Setaldai Kartick, committee members; and trustees Varshnie Singh

and Dhanrani Nand.

During the commissioning, attended by a small gathering, prayers were offered by representatives of the Christian, Hindu and Muslim Communities.

The ribbon was cut and the facilities, which included slides, swings, see-saws and a merry-go-round for children in wheelchairs, were declared open for use and were promptly and fully utilised by the children in attendance.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Two in custody for carjacking

Murder accused captured at Charity

TWO men are in police custody for allegedly hijacking a silver Allion Toyota car belonging to Anthony Pickett of Lot 191 Pineapple Street, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, on March 14.

The car was found on May 10 at Airy Hall, Esse-

TIMOTHY Moscow, 18, of North West District, who is wanted by police for the murder of a labourer, was on Thursday nabbed by police at Charity, Essequibo Coast.

About two months ago at Parika, Moscow allegedly murdered the labourer during a fight and immediately went into hiding.

He is at the Charity Police Station waiting to be transferred to the Parika Police Station where charges will be laid against him.

quibo Coast by police from `G’ Division.

Acting on information, police from `G’ Division went to the home of Mahadeo Mall, a taxi driver from Airy Hall, where the motor car HC 3368 was found parked in front of his house.

The same car was identified by Anthony Pickett to be his property. Pickett told police that he was robbed of the said car on March 14 at Kitty, Georgetown.

Mall reportedly stated that he got the car about five weeks ago to work as taxi

and keep from one Munesh Persaud, 29, of Lot 41 Columbia, Essequibo Coast.

Persaud when contacted claimed that a man by the name “Bull Dog” of Moruca had brought the said car some three months ago at his home to fix the number plate and told him to look for someone to work the car as a hired car.

The Police are continuing their investigating into this matter.

Murder accused: Timothy Moscow

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Social cohesion a growing...

Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton assured the audience of youths that social cohesion and harmony are achievable.

He spoke of the Government’s progress in dispersing messages of unity, not only to easily accessible regions, but to the furthest areas of Guyana.

“We will continue to go to the far flung regions of our country and the coastland to

reach and involve all. No one will be excluded or marginalised from the social cohesion process,” he said.

He stated that as the country perches on the precipice of new wealth, it is his desire to see all Guyanese move towards a similar destiny for the benefit of each citizen, despite existing differences.

“I would like to see us develop new levels of peace and harmony here at home... there is overwhelming evidence that Guyanese want to

Prime Minister and First Vice President Moses Nagamootoo (right) sits along with Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland (centre) and Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Akbar Khan (left) at the National Cultural Centre (Delano Williams photo)

A group of persons doing a dramatic piece on unity in celebration of Social Cohesion Day (Delano Williams photo)

coexist in peace, Guyanese want us all to unite. I believe if we all commit to doing so, what we can as individuals,

From page 10

as moral groups, as communities, then there would be no fear that social cohesion will ever evade us as a society,”

he said.

At the event, several presentations in drama, dance, poetry, song and music came from a number of schools, non-government associations and other individuals.

Also attending the programme were Speaker of

the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland; Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green; and Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Akbar Khan, among others.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

17

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Health minister settles misconceptions of tobacco control laws PUBLIC Health Ministry officials and representatives and lawyers of Demerara Tobacco Company (DEMTOCO) met on Thursday to clarify specific areas of enforcement of Guyana’s Tobacco control legislation.

The meeting, spearheaded

by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, was con-

vened with the industry to ensure compliance with the new laws. This is in accordance with the World Health Organisation (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and is unlike what has ever happened in other countries enforcing tobacco control laws.

Clarity was sought on the

publishing of the commencement order. Regulations from the law regarding the packaging and labelling of tobacco products will be issued by the ministry shortly, giving the tobacco industry nine months to comply with the detailed regulations.

During the meeting, it was clarified that the indus-

Demerara Tobacco Company’s lawyers and executives who met with the team from the Ministry of Public Health

try will be restricted from advertising tobacco brands, promoting products with their brands and sponsoring events of any kind. Further, public displays of tobacco products for commercial use is also prohibited.

It was also pointed out that since the law is already in effect, the clause that prohibits smoking in public places and public transportation must be observed.

This section of the legislation protects persons from second-hand smoke.

Minister Lawrence detailed that any act assented

to by the President is “live and legal”. Therefore, the tobacco industry is expected to comply in detail with various aspects of this regulation.

President David Granger assented to the bill in July 2017; however, the commencement order was issued on December 15, 2017, by the public health minister.

“We are not hiding behind legislation, instead, the intention is to move forward in a positive direction and have the full compliance of the tobacco industry,” Minister Lawrence stated. (DPI)

Cyclist busted with gun, ammo TWO men have been arrested and are in police custody after they were found with an unlicensed .380 Pistol with six live rounds on Wednesday night.

Police said the suspects, ages 32 and 21, of Campbellville and Thomas Street, Kitty, are being processed for court.

Reports indicate that po-

lice on a mobile patrol in Dennis Street, Campbellville, about 20:00hrs Wednesday night, observed the suspicious behaviour of the men, who were each riding a bicycle, and decided to stop and search them.

During the search, one of the men was found in possession of the unlicensed gun and the live rounds.

Four officers under scrutiny after prisoner escapes THREE police ranks were transferred from the Timehri Police Station in the aftermath of the escape of a female prisoner from the lock-up on Monday.

Reports indicate that an inspector was transferred to Force Control; a CID rank was reverted to general duties on the East Coast Division; the female station sergeant is to be charged internally while a lance cor-

poral is under investigation.

It is alleged that the female prisoner, who was held for narcotics, colluded with the police ranks to facilitate her escape.

The prisoner, after being transferred from the East La Penitence Police Station on Monday to Timehri to be charged for narcotics possession, escaped during a lapse in supervision by the ranks.

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Who’s ready for Guyana Carnival?

FUN, frolic and bacchanal are only some of the words that organisers are associating with the highly anticipated 10-day ‘Guyana Carnival’ billed to be hosted in Guyana come May 18 to 27.

Arrangements are now being tidied up as most of the major planning and marketing of the inaugural festival, expected to attract thousands both locally and internationally, has already been done.

The ‘non-stop’ party includes an action-packed period of activities fused with Guyanese food, music, entertainment and masqueraders.

The Guyana Carnival Committee is said to be a dynamic and diverse group of “optimistic and excited people” with the committee’s chairman being Bobby Vieira and other members

- Action-packed 10 days starting this Friday at Trinidad’s and Jamaica’s Carnival celebrations. We have also received backing from the marketing force behind ‘Crop Over’ in Barbados. Our ‘reps’ were in New York for an official launch there and we have also been aggressively promoting the event on HJ’s radio station which is listened to by thousands online via hj941.com and the BoomFM app,” Rob-

Revellers are also expected to feature at the ‘Guyana Carnival.’

Then, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes had eluded to the fact that Guyana should capitalise on celebrating this event on a grand scale annually. With this call to action serving as the catalyst, the committee said it saw fit to formulate a grand event to satisfy the demand

Activities will be fused with Guyanese music and entertainment.

including Kerwin Bollers, Rawle Ferguson, Navin Singh, Jonathan Beepat, Alana Tiwari, Deslyn Griffith, Akeem Peter, Floyd Rollins, Sophia Dolphin, Drew Thoven, Ashley Peroune, Timeka Marshall, and Jovan Winson.

Other stakeholders supporting the event include the Guyana Police Force, Civil Defence Commission, Red Cross, Mayor and City Costume information can be Council and the Ministry of obtained on website www.

Business (Tourism Departguyanacarnival.com ment). of the masses.

There are 23 events that An idea is born According to the organ- will be held at this year’s isers, the idea of the ‘Guyana carnival and persons have alCarnival’ was birthed out of ready started booking tickets the country’s 50th Indepen- for many of the major events. dence celebration when it re- In fact, tickets have already corded thousands of arrivals been sold out for some events causing some locations to of visitors here. have to be restocked.

Major Events

Some events are billed for the National Park at Thomas Lands, and while much repair work has to be done at this facility, Com- Timeka Marshall’s pool party munications Representative dubbed ‘4TM’ is on Feliz Robertson has assured for May 18. that it will be ready in time.

In an interview with the ertson offered.

Based on the response so Buzz, Robertson said the National Park will be “fully far from patrons and sponprepared to accommodate sors, she said the organisers our revellers.” “We will nev- can only foresee an even er put our patrons in harm’s bigger event next year and way, so the management of the years to come. “The next the Park will do its part and step is to become part of the Department of Tourism’s we will do ours,” she added.

The organisers, according ‘Calendar of Events’ annuto Robertson, are quite sure ally.” that the ‘Guyana Carnival’ is Not overshadowing ‘Mash’ While there has been some talk that the ‘Guyana Carnival’ can possibly overshadow Mashramani celebrations owing to the

Communications Representative Feliz Robertson.

an event that can be looked forward to in the long term owing to the amount of work that has gone into making the event a successful one.

“We have marketed Guyana Carnival in the region

kind of hype it is being given, Robertson clarified that this is not meant to be the case.

“We have been very clear from the inception that this event is a private partnership that celebrates Independence; ‘Mash’ is a statefunded event for ‘Republic Day.’ There is no competition. As a matter of fact, we do not wish to compete,” said Robertson.

As a company, she recalled that HJ has been hyping up ‘Mash’ for years and has always done its part to support the celebrations.

“This is the first carnival in decades and we are adding our hype to it to ensure that people are aware of everything that is planned for their enjoyment.”

‘Guyana Carnival’ is not meant to overshadow Mashramani.

Fete’ will bring an end to the 10 days of revelry, fun and excitement.

‘Tuesday on the Rocks’, slated for the Marriott Hotel’s parking lot on May 22, and ‘Destraction’, set for May 19 at the National Park, are also two highly anticipated events on the calendar.

“Many are also excited about our ‘Mawning’ breakfast party on May 24 at ‘Marriott’ beach front, Timeka Marshal’s pool party dubbed ‘4TM’ on May 18, ‘Friends at Sea Cruise’ on the 23rd along with the ‘Wet Wednesday’ slated for UG and ‘Big People Party’ set for the same day at the National Park,” Robertson disclosed.

Some of the other notable events are ‘Come Out to Play – Bright colours’ on May 19, ‘Shell Down Monday’ on May 21, and ‘Bare Skinz’ Pool Party on May 22.

Many local singers will also be a big part of the revelry with their recent hits taking centre stage for the Carnival season.

These include Big Red, Lil Red, Timeka Marshall, Jomo, Kwesi Ace, Trevon Vibes, Brandon Harding, Lil Corwin, Jay Anderson and local producer Drew Thoven.

Tickets are on sale at Tower Hotel, The Giftland Mall,

Tickets for some of the major concerts have already been sold out and had to be restocked.

Tickets have already been purchased for some of the major events like ‘Revel Nation’ on the night of May 25, which is a Fun, frolic, bacchanal concert that features headliners expected at first ever ‘Guylike Machel Montano, Bunji ana Carnival.’

Garlin and Fayann Lyons that will be held at the National Stadium. Additionally, the ‘Stink Nigel’s Supermarket, Exclusive and Dutty Moving Jouvert,’ Styles, Clairan’s and That Look ‘Scorch Duck Work’ and the Boutique. “Ticket prices are ‘Miss World’ pageant will also beyond affordable. We have had ‘Early Bird tickets’ for some be hosted.

After the parade on May events at $2000 and many of our 26, Robertson said the fun will outlets have sold out those tickcontinue at ‘Soca Rave’ where ets and had to be restocked with thousands will likely converge those for $4000 and beyond, at the National Park to witness while VIP tickets are 10,000 and Patrice Roberts, Kerwin Dubois, beyond as well.

The GPF is expected to Niala Blackman, Blaxx, Ravi B, play a key role at the carnival, KI and many others.

On May 27, the ‘Suits Boat along with private security on Cruise’ and ‘Kool Out Cooler the ground.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

The bright sign that greets you at the entrance (Delano Williams photo)

Come take the stage, expose your unseen talent -at The Duke’s Open Mic Night

Aside from live entertainment, persons would also be able to enjoy fine dining, drink specials and a diverse menu which ranges from creole food, steak, fine dining cuisines, sumptuous burgers for those who might want to indulge in fast food and even a kid’s menu.

Since The Duke opened its doors recently, Low said they received great feedback from customers especially because the establishment is the first art gallery and restaurant.

One would expect that the extravagant decorations were shipped from the United

States of America (USA) or crafted by the some of the most established artists from across the world but, if you take a closer look, everything was made using everyday things, what some might call garbage.

“We wanted to create a really organic and free space for people…all of the art and decorations that we displayed are from local young artists who are upcoming and have all this talent but there were no windows and opportunity for them,” said Low. Lights were attached to tree branches, table centrepieces were made from

used bottles and some of the incredible cushions were handmade by students of the David Rose School for the Handicapped.

“Soon we are going to have an auction to sell the cushions and the proceeds will go to the school; also the art we have on display is up for sale and the proceeds go back to the artists while some of them prefer to let their earnings be given to a charity of their choice,” she said.

The management of the establishment wanted to find a way to give back and the art community seemed fitting to benefit from their initiative.

In the coming months, they will also be opening a studio that could be used for doing art, photo shoots and so forth. Low said anyone would be able to utilise it for free.

“They will also be able to do shows because we want to see our people shine,” the manager said.

Persons who are interested in experiencing the art, talent and even the ambience of The Duke, they just have to go down to Duke Street opposite the American Embassy from 17:00hrs every day.

Manager of the Duke, Amber Low speaking to the Buzz on Tuesday (Delano Williams photo)

By Navendra Seoraj

S

INGING along to a song under your breath, in the bathroom is often very pleasing because your melodies bounce off the walls and back to your ears but, why stifle the remarkable talent when you could take the stage at The Duke’s “Open Mic Night” on May 16, 2018.

Stage fright might be a thing of the past after a welcoming round of applause from the audience and the bright spotlight shines on you that night.

If that does not calm the butterflies, the ambience that you will find as you walk up the stairs and into the Duke will most definitely give you the motivation to rock the stage.

“People have all this tal-

ent and we wanted to find a way to bring that talent out; the Open Mic Night will be opened to everyone,” said Manager of the Duke, Amber Low during an interview with The Buzz on Tuesday.

“We had initially planned to start with poetry and spoken word but the response we got was overwhelming to the extent that people even asked if they could come and sing.”

Their plan is to host the activity every month and probably even do themed nights so that singers, musicians, poets and persons from all walks of life with a particular skill would get an opportunity to reveal their talent.

Low said persons have already expressed their excitement to take part in and even witness the open microphone session.

The spotlight will shine on you next Wednesday as persons sit around to listen and watch the talent come alive (Delano Williams photo)

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

ABANDONED CREATIVITY

The crisis of Guyana’s musicians MUSIC, like the rest of the arts, was never perceived as needing a parliament discussion about its potential as an employment pool and GDP contributor. The main reason for this condition is the fact that the arts is a very complicated business. In Guyana there is no bureaucratic template existing to be easily followed and even when a format is constructed by artists because the arts didn’t exist as a recognised colonial tradition, there is psychological and cultural resistance as well as confusion about the ‘How’, ‘What’ and translation from the static accustomed, to the evident dynamism visible beyond our shores, by both officialdom and the artistes themselves. But nevertheless, talents exist and should not be allowed to wither in the obvious indifference and partial interest from the architects whose mandate should build the stage and props for a proper pleasing musical drama in terms of excellence and economics to be conducted. We must take stock of that aspect of our heritage and, with diligence, resuscitate from the disheartening state where musicians, like artists, are not inspired to create and are hardly able to make a living, because unchartered, we have adopted, mimicked and plunged into a formless stagnation. To understand what I’m referring to will require a quick flashback to where we were when with music, our best popular culture voices emerged.

There were always the Jute-box dances, they were the Saturday night events and music at the bus excursions. Then there were over the years the Clubs and Discos- places like Bonnie’s Hideout, Rendezvous, Green Shrimp, Wig and Gown, Talk of the Town, Belvedere and numerous others. But when the holidays

T

came, you had to take the lady to the dance that archived memories. It had to be places like Legionnaires, Cosmos, Teachers, Proffit Place, Cove School and places where the instrumental orchestras (String Bands) were. The culture demanded the musical experience of the fol-

the economic possibility is true. Then there was the economic downhill that resulted from the front-line anti-colonial politics coupled with the oil crisis of the 70s and the ambiguous cultural clash between ours and our new Socialist friends that is yet to

lowing names of my day: Mischievous Guys, Silhouettes, Sound Dimensions, the incredible Yoruba Singers, Sid & The Slickers, Ruddy and the Roasters, and later the East Coast Connection, Pete’s Caribbean Fusion among others. This is the culture that produced voices like Kenny Lawrence, Pamela Maynard, Sammy Baksh, Lionel Abel, Souse, Sach Persaud, Rita Forrester, Aubrey Cummings, Barbera Sookraj, Mark Holder and many others.

The band was the driving force that propelled talent before the audience, which in turn commanded the band to recruit and hone singers for public excellence across musical spheres. We cannot commit the injustice of failing to make mention of the Jazz and Steel orchestras that also occupied space in that era. That Guyana failed to capitalise on those talents from a state perspective with laws and policies to create

be properly analysed. One thing with the genesis of this nation that then Prime Minister Forbes Burnham understood was that for culture to evolve and play a significant part in the national ethos, it must have its own incubator. He created a Department of Culture from the previous History and Arts Council that was separate from any meddling official outside of accounting purposes, with programme assistants who were themselves, artists.

The decline began around the mid-80s after then-President Burnham passed.

On the popular cultural ground began a copycat of standards imported from Jamaica. Sound systems inserted themselves as a cheaper alternative to bands. They promoted themselves through the ‘Bubble Sessions’ that offered more wine and grind hysteria than dance. There was no talent

development as with the bands, though the DJ would emerge as a feature and we would begin to lose the ballad, blues and crooners.

The standards shifted to either the Reggae or North American singers.

Though the sound systems in Jamaica served a different purpose, to quote: “The prime function of the deejay is to enhance the rhythm and encourage the customers to dance to it. In a sense, the Jamaican deejay acts as a literal talking drum. He chants rhythmically along with the record, generally entering on anticipatory beats and keying his phases to rhythms and syncopations based on sixteenth notes.” Reggae International. This is not what we copied, this experiment was otherwise conducted in Guyana by singers in our popular bands with their renditions of songs, with the Guyanese bands lay the development and conduit of interpretations and of original music.

The deejays we knew, played music to a ritual of moods, offer appealing anecdotes in relation to the atmosphere created by the music, while the copied Jamaican deejay is based vaguely on the musical style of Dennis Al Capone and the Big Youth era, and is still to develop a local expression of a relationship with the rhythm and added poetic lyrics to enhance the cover song or track enough to compete on stage accompanied by talented musicians. Major Joby, Buster and the late Troy C, had mastered that.

This article was inspired by a conversation I recently had in the Bank with Trevor Rogers, a talented musician, on the wasted talents and the prospects for musicians and their passions. I concluded a long time ago that we can always stimulate new talent, but the bell around the cat lies with inspiring fruitful careers and holding a respected niche in the earning economy.

Mother and Daughter Pageant set for this weekend

HE annual Mother and Daughter Pageant takes place at the National Cultural Centre on the Saturday, May 12.

This year’s pageant is being held under the theme “Love’s Kaleidoscope” and has brought together 44 contestants in the three categories in Mother and Daughter pairs.

The Pageant is organised

by Supa Stylistics Promotions, which is headed by Dr. Sulan Fung-Browne and her mother, Mrs. Ingrid Fung.

From its inception, the pageant has guided the light on the bond between mothers and their daughters and that is one of the reasons behind its success over the past two and half decades.

This year’s programme will be packed with lots of enter-

Some of the contestants from the Junior and Senior Categories in this year’s pageant

tainment by some of our best artistes and of course the audience will be dazzled by the creativity of the mothers and daughters as they compete in the junior, middle and senior categories of the show.

This year’s pageant will also focus on the scourge of domestic violence in Guyana. A special tribute will be paid to Reona Payne who was killed in April. Her reputed husband is before the courts for her death.

Reona is a past contestant of the Mother and Daughter pageant, so, according to the pageant organisers, the tragedy of her demise has left the team heartbroken, but strong to continue to raise awareness on the problem.

22

Pre Mother’s Day celebration held at New Amsterdam Women’s Prison LAST Tuesday, Guyanese Designer, Sonia Noel along with members of her Living With Intention Motivational Mission team hosted a pre-Mother’s Day Celebration for the women at the New Amsterdam Female Prison, to help uplift the mother’s in the facility who are unable to spend the special day with their children.

The initiative was birthed during a previous visit by the designer during International Women’s Month during which the women expressed the desire to feel and look beautiful even for one day. The pre-Mother’s Day event, therefore, featured makeovers being given to the women by Noel and her team which included Denielle John and Alana De Souza.

According to a release, 14 inmates were chosen as models for a special fashion show that was held at the facility. The women were anxiously awaiting when the team entered the women’s facility. After greeting everyone the fitting started and after fitting they were directed to the makeup area.

“They were happy, nervous and emotional at the same time while getting pampered.

One of them remarked, ‘I feel I am getting ready for an award ceremony, this is very special.’“ the release said.

The programme involved the distribution of Mother’s Day cards to the women which included a special message from Noel. The event also featured songs and a fashion show display by the women of the prison who had been given a makeover. “In the finale, one of the inmates serenaded the models with Flying without Wings. Most of the mothers became emotional,” the release said. The ladies then presented the designer with a gift and dedicated a song to her in recognition of her contributions to the facility over the years.

Noel said it was touching when one of the inmates came up and held her hands and expressed her thanks.

She stated that Noel’s book Living with Intention helped to bring her out of her depression, the release stated.

Some lucky mothers also won prizes for having the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Essequibo Praant ‘Vandee Mataram’ attracted hundreds

One of the inmates modelling a Sonia Noel Design

Dancers from the Dharmic Swarswattie Dance Academy performing on stage for the cultural evening.

most children, as well as being the oldest and youngest mother.

Both the inmates and the officers enjoyed themselves at this special occasion, with one of the officers expressing that it was good to see the inmates given a chance to show their talents.

A classical dance being performed by Dance teacher Sursattie Singh and her male dancer Vivik.

The audience that attended the cultural evening in observance of Arrival Day.

Hundreds of persons converged last Saturday evening at the Anna Regina Mandir compound to witness the spectacular performances put forward by the Dharmic Swarswattie Dance Academy in observance of the 180th Anniversary of the Arrival of Indians to Guyana.

The show, which was branded under the name ‘Vandee Mataram’, featured traditional dances put together by the dance academy.

The programme commenced with prayers from the three major religions after which dancers took the stage.

Attired in their richly decorated traditional wear they mesmerised the audience with their talented moves. All the dances were choreographed by Essequibo dance teacher Sursattie Singh aka Annie.

The Indian National Anthem was recited by children from Affiance Village after which the dancers took the stage performing

“Ghoomar” and then Essequibo Chutney Queen Sandra Beni performed a song. Classical dances were performed by the dance teacher herself along with Vivick, one of her male dancers. Other dances performed included, “Naino Walay”, “Sun Saathiya”, “Soja Zara” and “Dolak Baja”.

Individual dances were performed by Essequibo talented dancer, Dayvashanie Naipaul who skillfully danced to classical tunes.

‘Filmy’ songs were also done by members of the Merritone band Mohini and Ravin Nateram.

The show was held with the aim of raising funds for the completion of the Anna Regina Kendra which will be a hub for religious teachings and training sessions in the region. The Kendra will provide teachings in Hindi, cooking and also dances to the Essequibo population when completed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

23

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

25

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Pepsi renews partnership ... and would cover the cost of balls for practice and matches, transportation, snacks and preparation of the two teams in what is expected to be the busiest year in Berbice’s cricket,” Foster said.

Foster who is the president of the Berbice Cricket Board, stated that both teams would be involved in Under-19 and Intermediate

cricket tournaments, organised by the Berbice Cricket Board.

He noted that the Pepsi sponsorship has allowed the players to concentrate on playing the game without worrying about expenses.

Since 2004, the Pepsi Under-19 team has produced players of the calibre of Clinton Pestano, Eon Hooper, Shawn Pereira, Lloydel Lewis, Askay Homraj, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersaud, Mahendra Gopilall, Jeremy Sandia, Sheneeta Grimmond, Shailendra Shameer, Shemaine Campbelle, Shabeka Gajnabi, Arif Chan, Kevin Sinclair, Uma Matadin, Mariam Samaroo, Dian Prahalad, Aleema Arokium and Plaffiana Millington among others who have either played for Berbice or Guyana.

The success of the cricket teams of the RHTY&SC,

From back page ► Foster stated, has been based on massive investments into each of its players, excellent one-on-one relationship between management and players, and a no-nonsense approach to indiscipline.

Meanwhile, vice-president Mark Papannah and cricket manager Robby Kissoonlall both expressed gratitude to DDL for its continued confidence in the club.

Marketing Manager of DDL, Larry Wills, hailed the relationship between the two organisations as successful and noted that the teams have represented the Pepsi brand with pride and success on and off the cricket field.

DDL, he stated, invests heavily in sports, culture, education and youth development as part of its corporate duties and is proud to be associated with the RHTY&SC, MS.

Windies to play T20s against Bangladesh August, no room for Pakistan CRICKET West Indies (CWI) is set to announce that they will be playing two T20i matches against Bangladesh in the United States in August, however, reported matches against Pakistan on US soil may have to wait until sometime in 2019.

Sport360 had reported in February that the Windies were set to play in a triangular T20i tournament in Florida in August involving Bangladesh and Pakistan. Windies sources, however, told SportsMax.TV that Pakistan was never a part of that tournament.

But, while it is still unclear what arrangements CWIhas with Pakistan to play matches in the USA, this won’t happen until possibly 2019, according to CWI CEO Johnny Grave.

“We going to announce shortly, if not tomorrow, that we are going to be playing two games against Bangladesh in the USA in August, our first match back in the US since the India Games in 2016,” Grave told SportsMax.TV Thursday.

“And we are still working with Pakistan and other nations trying to identify windows when we have actually got 10 days when we can go and play some matches (against Pakistan).

Grave explained that the Windies has a packed schedule with a number of overseas tours interspersed with tournaments. This, he said, is the biggest impediment to playing matches against Pakistan anytime within the next 12 months.

“As soon as the IPL finishes we have the charity game at Lords, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and then the Caribbean

Premier League. Then, there is a window there but then there is the Asia Cup and obviously Pakistan in playing in that,” Grave said.

“Then we go to India, Bangladesh and we have England at home. Then it’s onto the Pakistan Super League, the IPL and the Cricket World Cup. It’s non-stop cricket for the next 12 months and there isn’t a window so we are working with Pakistan to see exactly when we might be able to schedule the games.

“2019 is when we are trying to find a window for, but all the nations in the world are going through their schedules after the Cricket World Cup. We are hoping to find an opportunity there. We have to be available when Pakistan is available and then obviously we have to find decent conditions in Florida for cricket.”

Notwithstanding the challenge, Grave said CWI is still committed to developing the game in the USA and the Americas.

“We have Bangladesh in Florida and then we are working with Cricket Canada on some initiatives so there is still plenty of work going on but the actual matches against Pakistan are proving a bit difficult at this time.”

West Indies played three T20 matches against Pakistan in Karachi on April 1, 2, and 3 this year. The home side won all three matches in the series that represented the first international matches played in that country since 2009. (SportsMax).

American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Blurred Line Race 2 Lia Shivani Race 3 Believe Indeed Race 4 Devamani Race 5 Luz Mimi Race 6 Her Latest Film Race 7 Javelin Race 8 Hoffenheim Irish Racing Tips Curragh 08:20 hrs Fantasy 08:55 hrs Empire State 09:30 hrs Engles Rock 10:05 hrs Excelling Spirit 10:40 hrs Arbourfield 11:15 hrs Khalaab 11:45 hrs Harmonyofthestars 12:20 hrs Darkness Falls South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:40 hrs Quid Rides 09:15 hrs Stormy Eclipse 09:50 hrs Anglet 10:25 hrs Bring Me More 10:55 hrs Scribo English Racing Tips Market Rasen 08:30 hrs Aardwolf 09:05 hrs Silver Tassie 09:40 hrs The Blue Bomber 10:15 hrs Duke Debarry 10:45 hrs Bentons Lad 11:20 hrs Norse Light 11:55 hrs Too Much Too Soon 12:30 hrs Tokay Dokey Chester 08:50 hrs Arcanada 09:25 hrs Eminent 10:00 hrs Titi Mafki 10:35 hrs Dubawi Fifty 11:05 hrs Kachy 11:40 hrs Rainbow Rebel 12:15 hrs Coeur De Lion Ascot 12:25 hrs Imphal 13:00 hrs Come On Leicester 13:35 hrs Stream Of Stars 14:05 hrs Society Power 14:40 hrs Dreamfield 15:10 hrs Al Jellaby

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

34 Days to go …

Brail World Cup Captains 1930 - 2014

BEING a captain of a football team is not only having a band on the arm and participating in the “ball or field” draw at the start of the match, the captain is chosen because the players of the cast respect the chosen athlete.

Being the captain of the Brazilian national team is even more important, even more so in a World Cup, as well as representing the best players, he can still have the honour of receiving the most important cup of the sport.

Five of these captains, Bellini, Mauro, Carlos Alberto, Dunga and Cafu, had the honour of being world champions and raising the cup. In some world championships, the band changed hands, due to several issues, such as losing the place in the starting line or injury. Let’s check all the captains of Brazil in the Cups.

Uruguay 1930 - The multi-athlete of Fluminense Preguinho was the captain of the Seleção in both games in the first World Cup. Italy 1934 - Brazil only made one game, defeat against Spain, and the Botafoguense Martim was the captain of the team.

France 1938 - Martim was again captain of the team in the campaign of the third place in France. In the game in which he did not act, Leonidas, the Black Diamond took the responsibility.

Brazil 1950 - Leader of the ‘Expresso da Vitória’, the great Vasco of the late 1940s, Augusto was the captain of the team, but it was not a unanimous name among the cast and received criticism from athletes.

Switzerland 1954 - Bauer, a volatile São Paulo midfielder, and one of the only remnants of the previous World Cup, was the captain of the team.

Sweden 1958 - Bellini was the first captain of Brazil to receive the cup and ended up creating the gesture of raising it inadvertently. The photographers asked him to lift the trophy to make their work easier.

Chile 1962 - In his third Cup, Mauro Ramos de Oliveira was the captain of the bi, repeating Bellini’s gesture four years earlier.

England 1966 - Bellini returned to start the title and the band returned to his arm.

However, Orlando Peçanha also took responsibility for team changes.

Mexico 1970 - Captain Santos, Carlos Alberto Torres was chosen to have the band on his arm in the team full of snakes (Gerson, Rivellino and Pele also had a lot of strength). He lifted the tri cup.

West Germany 1974 - Piazza, one of

the remnants of 1970, started the World Championship as captain. But with the changes in the team, Luís Pereira and Marinho Peres also took responsibility.

captain’s belt in the next Cup, despite some glimpses with his teammates in the runner-up.

Argentina 1978 - With three World Cups as starting point, Rivellino started as the captain of the team. However, he lost ownership throughout the competition and Lion received the band on his arm.

Japan/South Korea 2002 - The captain was the Emerson midfielder. However, the day before the debut he was bruised, was cut and Cafu took the armband hastily and in the final raised the caneco.

Spain 1982 - Already a leader in Corinthians, politicised and respected by the athletes, Socrates, even being in his first World Cup, was chosen to be captain by Telê Santana.

Germany 2006 - Captain World champion and respected, repeat the dose.

Cafu took the cuff again. In the game in which he did not act, the captain was goalkeeper Dida.

Mexico 1986 - Reserve in 1982, Edinho took the ownership in Mexico and also received the title of captain, even with Socrates also being the holder and coach the same as the previous world.

South Africa 2010 - In their third Cup, good phase and consolidated leadership, defender Lucio was the captain of the team that was eliminated by the Netherlands in the quarterfinals.

Italy 1990 - After the 1986 World Cup, a Seleção practically renewed, and the defender Ricardo Gomes was the captain of the team commanded by Lazaroni.

United States 1994 - Captain of the São Paulo, Raí assumed the function also in the Selection. However, he lost the starting line-up and the track went to Dunga, who raised the cup of the fourtime champions.

France 1998 - As Dunga was a respected captain in 1994, he continued with the

Brazil 2014 - With a rather renewed selection, Thiago Silva, who was in good phase, was the captain, although challenged by his stance. In the game that did not play, David Luiz took the clamp and was soon in the 7 to 1.

Russia 2018 - Although the armband has changed its arm during the whole cycle, defender Miranda is likely to be the captain during the World Cup, even being his first World Cup.

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

BCB launches Inter-Secondary School Cricket Competition

THE drive to promote cricket at the junior level in Berbice received a major boost with the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) joining hands with Sueria Manufacturing Ltd of Eccles for the Inter-Secondary School cricket competition.

Twenty-nine secondary schools in Regions Five and Six would participate in the 30 overs knock-out tournament.

President of the BCB, Hilbert Foster, at the launching ceremony indicated that the board remains committed towards the development of cricket at all levels in the ancient county.

“Every promise made to the stakeholders of Berbice Cricket would be kept because the current leadership of the BCB is passionate about the work we do. We

committed ourselves to organise cricket at all levels.

We have already fulfilled that promise in just over two months,” Foster said.

Foster, who is spearheading a massive restoration programme in Berbice Cricket, disclosed that apart from the GCB, no other cricket board organises Inter-Secondary School Cricket, and noted that the tournament has been absent for a while.

He noted that the main objectives of the tournament are to identify cricketing talents in the school system; to encourage schools to invest in the game; to assist cricket clubs to attract new members and to encourage more youths to play the game at the competitive levels.

Cricket, Foster stated, has been at a standstill in Berbice over the last three years due

to poor leadership and the lust for power by individuals who have personal agenda.

Since his election as president, the board has launched cricket tournaments at the Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, Under-21, Female, Zone, Second Division and First Division levels, while numerous developmental programmes have been launched.

The tournament will involve the following schools - Upper Corentyne Technical Institute, Line Path Secondary, Skeldon High, Tagore Memorial, Central Corentyne, Black Bush Polder, Winifred Gaskin Memorial, Lower Corentyne Secondary, Manchester Secondary, Port Mourant Secondary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, New Amsterdam Technical Institute, Canje Secondary,

Parika Defenders and Floodlights clash this evening PLAY in the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) organised cricket tournament in memory of Bedi Ramgeewan, is set to commence this evening at the Demerara Cricket Club ground in Queenstown.

Parika Defenders will match skills with Floodlights from 19:30hrs in the Over-40 category.

The action continues on Sunday at Malteenoes from 10:00hrs.

One pitch one; Wellman will play Amazon Warriors, while Albion Masters and Parika Defenders clash from 13:00hrs.

Pitch two will see Fisherman Masters playing Savage Masters, while in the afternoon session, Success Masters will oppose Enterprise Legends.

The tournament is also sponsored by Back to Eden, Khan’s Trading, Permaul Trading, and Trophy Stall.

Sean Rodrigues of Sueria Manufacturing hands over sponsorship to BCB president Hilbert Foster while his CEO Frank Sanichara looks on.

Berbice High School, Vryman’s Erven Secondary, New Amsterdam Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute and Tutorial Academy in Region Six. The schools in Region Five are Rosignol Secondary,

No.8 Secondary, Ash Educational Institute, Woodley Park Secondary, Fraser Educational Institute, Fort Wellington Secondary, Bush Lot Secondary, Novar Secondary and Mahaicony Secondary.

The top two schools in

both Regions would advance to the semifinals before the grand final which would be played at the Albion Cricket Ground. All matches start at 11.00hrs while a maximum of two players would be allowed out of the 30-yard circle for the first five overs while five would be allowed out for the rest of the innings.

Foster expressed gratitude to Sueria Manufacturing CEO, Frank Sanichara, for his confidence in the board.

He assured Sanichara that the tournament would commence soon after the inclement weather eases.

Sanichara, in brief remarks praised the BCB for the work it was doing to transform cricket in Berbice.

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Wakenaam Combined beat Bartica by 86 runs WAKENAAM Combined defeated Bartica Combined by 86 runs during the Combined phase of the Guyana Cricket Board/Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sport Commission/National Secondary Schools Cricket League, played recently at the Good Success ground.

Wakenaam decided to bat first and were bowled out for a challenging total of 209 off just 25 of their allotted 50 overs.

Sachin Dindiyay slammed 52, Ricky Persaud stroke 41, and Fitzroy Retemiah made 40. Bowling for Bartica, Hamel Lamb and Tevon McPherson claimed 3-41 and 3-54 respectively.

Wakenaam then made Bartica’s reply a nerve-wracking task, with their excellent length and line, and superb fielding.

Bartica crumbled for 123 in 18 overs. Hamel Lamb was the only batsman to display a high level of resistance with 56, while

Hamel Lamb

Tevon McPherson contributed 18. Bowling for Wakenaam, Ricky Persaud took 5-31 and Ryan Atkinson 2-12.

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL cricket

North Georgetown outplay Charlestown

NORTH Georgetown produced a clinical performance to outplay Charlestown Secondary School by 68 runs when play in the Guyana Cricket Board/Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sport Commission/National Secondary School Cricket League (GCB/DMLAS/ NSC/NSSCL) continued.

North Georgetown took the opportunity to bat first, and posted 115-6 off their allotted 20 overs. All-rounder Wayne Bollers stroked an intelligent unbeaten 45, which included three fours.

Afelre Henry, who was run-out on 12, was the only batsman to reach double figures. Bowling for Charlestown, Raymond Bandhu, Collin Smart, Kelvin Gordon and Ravi Hanuman took a wicket apiece.

Shivanand Gossain

Charlestown, in reply, never appeared capable of overhauling the total, as they were bowled out for 47 in 13.4 overs, with four batsmen failing to score.

Opening batsman Bandhu made 24. Bowling for North Georgetown, Shivanand Gossain was the most destructive bowler with figures of 5-3.

Wayne Bollers, supported well with 3-11, while there

Wayne Bollers

was a wicket each for Michael Pooran and Mervyn Permaul.

North Georgetown will now meet Chase Academy to determine the Georgetown District winner, tomorrow from 10:00hrs at a venue to be confirmed.

Chase Academy had previously secured winning points from Charlestown Secondary.

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Blatter opposed to joint World Cup bids amid 2026 proposals FORMER FIFA president Sepp Blatter has reiterated his view that World Cups should be staged in one country rather than co-hosted by multiple nations.

Blatter, 82, said football’s world governing body is now interested in co-hosted World Cups because it wants to increase the tournament to 48 teams.

A decision on the hosts of

the 2026 World Cup will be made on June 13.

United States, Canada and Mexico have made a joint bid while Morocco has also bid to host the event.

“To have three big countries together ... they have proved they can host it alone, so why are the three together?” Blatter told Mani Djazmi, from the BBC’s World Football programme.

Disgraced former presi-

dent Blatter was in charge of football for 17 years until he was banned amid a corruption scandal in 2015.

The World Cup has only been staged in more than one country once when it was co-hosted by South Korea and Japan in 2002, a tournament Blatter says was a “nightmare in organisation”.

He said joint bids were denied from Libya and Tunisia for the 2010 tournament,

and Spain and Portugal, and Belgium and the Netherlands for 2018, because of a decision from FIFA not to consider a “combined organisation”.

Blatter has also criticised a taskforce introduced for the 2026 bidding process which has the power to exclude a bid to host the competition before the vote at FIFA’S congress.

“They cannot do that,”

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter

Blatter said.

“Even if one of the candidates is not a good one, they have the right to be at the congress.

“That’s why I’m advocating that Morocco has to go to the congress. Morocco cannot be kicked out before the congress.” (BBC Sport).

`Sancho’ Alphonso pleads for improvement of Victory Valley basketball club

By Joe Chapman

FOUNDER of the Linden champion basketball club, Victory Valley Royals, Linden ‘Sancho’ Alphonso has called on Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, and the regional leaders to do their best to upgrade the basketball playing facility used by one of the nation’s best clubs.

Among the most notable players over the years have been National players Alwyn ‘Shaq’ Wilson and Dwayne ‘Brown Sugar’ Roberts and several junior national players.

Speaking at the special ceremony where several players and officials of the club were given tokens of recognition at the Community Centre in Victory Valley, Alphonso has described the recent achievements of the Linden Basketball champions - second in 2017 and third 2018 in the last two National Club Championships, known as the ‘Road to Mecca’ and staged by the governing Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABA) - as remarkable.

It has been 19 years since Alphonso left these shores to take up permanent residency in the United States; and 25 years since Victory Valley Royals’ formation by the only coach to have given Guyana a regional basketball title.

But he has not forgotten his roots and as head coach of the Guyana National Women’s team, led by Karen Abrams, who carted off the 1996 CARICOM basketball championship staged in Trinidad and Tobago, Alphonso strongly feels more should be done generally for the promotion and development of basketball in Victory Valley, Wismar Linden.

However, at the special ceremony to mark the 25th reunion of the club Sancho recalled: “For the Royals have maintained consistency and I want to thank Pastor Linnel Warden for the time he has spent as president keeping them in check. As I said before it is not an easy task dealing with them. I have dealt with them.

June Harris, as a member over the years, has been a stalwart with my brother

Dereck Alphonso and more so thanks to the players for allowing me to experiment on them.”

But coach Alphonso took the opportunity to call on Minister Broomes, Regional Chairman of Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Berbice) Renis Morian, Mayor of Linden Ms Waneka Arrindell, past Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland, Regional Chairman of the PNCR Dereck Alphonso, Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira and president of the GABA Nigel Hinds to visit the space where players of the Royals club practise their skills, but have done well.

In the vicinity, when President David Granger recently opened a new Play Park in one of Linden’s known ghetto communities.

‘Sancho’ pleaded with the special invitees saying: “Beyond the trestle to enter Victory Valley you would never believe, and I want Minister Broomes and Mr Hinds to come and see where we have been producing national players.

“You got to see it to believe it, because I tell you what, I telling you might be

Media, players, sponsors and associations to be honoured at GFF Awards ceremony tonight Media, players, sponsors and associations to be honoured at GFF Awards ceremony tonight THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) for the first time since March 2007, will host Awards Ceremony this evening at the Sleepin International Hotel & Casino.

According to the GFF, the event is to recognise the contributions of key stakeholders towards the development of football in Guyana.

The evening’s proceedings will get underway from 19:00hrs with a cocktail reception after which, coaches, players, the media

and affiliated federations to the GFF will be honoured for their contribution to the game in 2017.

Wayne Forde, president of the GFF, pointed out that the event is an important one for his administration, adding, “The purpose of the event is to return to the GFF annual calendar of activity, an occasion to honour and recognise outstanding work and achievement of our members, officials and players and also to recognise other stakeholders, including our corporate partners for their contribution.”

an understatement. Seeing is believing - the worse conditions we play under and the odds are stacked against us but we still overcome.”

The space where the half court is does not have room for a full court. Alphonso said that the Silvercity Hard Court which is just before the entrance to Victory Valley would be best suited to be developed.

Alphonso, the club’s

first president who is also overseas but was back for the 25th anniversary said: “Having leaders we see as influential figures in our community, we know once that is happening we are getting the attention.”

He continued: “Once we are getting the attention there is some hope and we know where there is hope lots of things can happen.

“As first manager of

the team I did it because I thought I was contributing to something that was worthwhile and growing in the Valley we have always been addressed as disadvantaged. Many times we try to justify but sometimes I say if you make poor decisions, poor things happen. If you make good decisions, good things can happen. Where there is life there is hope.”

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Celtics to meet LeBron’s Cavs after series-clinching win over 76ers THE Boston Celtics proved their toughness in a 114-122 game-five win over the Philadelphia 76ers to advance to the NBA Eastern Conference finals.

Down late in the fourth quarter, Boston used a 6-0 run to get back in front as they sealed a 4-1 series victory on Wednesday.

Playing without Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward (out all season), the Celtics proved their depth by having all five starters score in double figures against the 76ers in Boston.

Boston will now face the

LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers for a chance to play in the NBA Finals.

Celtics head coach Brad Stevens has had to deal with massive injuries at every step of the way this season, but he has always had an answer.

Getting the most out of guys like Terry Rozier and Jayson Tatum at the most pivotal points of the campaign spoke as a testament to Stevens’ talent on the sideline.

In a league dominated by super teams and superstars, Stevens proved that old-fashioned coaching can still find success in the NBA. His next

Boston Celtics head coach Brad Stevens

task is trying to find a way to slow down Cavs great James.

It would have been easy to lie down and chalk this

Manchester United secure second place with West Ham draw

Man United manager Jose Mourinho pleased to secure second place

(REUTERS) - Manchester United secured the point they needed to finish second in the Premier League with a dull 0-0 draw at West Ham United on Thursday.

There were few chances in a tepid first half, though Alexis Sanchez forced a good save from West Ham keeper Adrian and Marko Arnautovic looked the most likely West Ham player to make a breakthrough.

Paul Pogba curled a couple of shots narrowly wide

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 11, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)

59 (2008)

(2)

60 (2017)

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the first player to cop the Man of the Match Award in IPL 2018?

(2)

Who was the first Englishman to do so?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

for Manchester United, and the France midfielder was booked in the dying stages for kicking out at West Ham’s Mark Noble, who was also shown a yellow card as tempers frayed.

Manchester United, 19 points behind champions Manchester City, moved four points clear of third-placed Tottenham Hotspur with one league game left, and will play Chelsea in the FA Cup final on May 19. West Ham are 15th in the table.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was pleased to secure second place.

“We are the second best team in the Premier League, a fantastic competition with lots of good teams with six teams trying to finish first,” he told the BBC. “We came second, I am not totally happy that is not my nature. But since the moment we felt it was impossible to finish first we had the target to finish second and it is done today.

“I am not critical of the performance at all. In the 80th minute we know that a point was enough so we start thinking about that and we let the game go.”

West Ham manager David Moyes was happy to draw with his former club.

“A good point for us,” he said. “Our boys showed a great attitude after getting safe at the weekend.

“We have conceded a lot of goals this season so a clean sheet is great. We have done the job we came to do - we are not relegated.”

series up as a loss after falling behind 3-0. But the 76ers do not do things easily. Joel Embiid, despite missing all

eight of his game-tying or go-ahead shots in the final minute this season – including two mid-week, enjoyed another promising campaign.

He scored 27 points with 12 rebounds and four assists in game five.

Dario Saric added 27 points and 10 rebounds, while Ben Simmons rebounded from a nightmare start to the series to score 18 points with eight rebounds and six assists. Philadelphia finally have a bright NBA future and should be back next season.

Jaylen Brown scored 24 points on 10 of 13 shooting

on Wednesday, while Tatum added 25 points and four assists. Brown, a second-year top-five pick, and rookie Tatum look like a young version of Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. They can both dominate a game, and they both make their teammates better.

When Hayward went down in the first quarter of the opening game of the season, many thought Irving and Al Horford would have to lead this team. But Brown and Tatum look capable of leading this team to the NBA Finals.

Wins for Baksh, Alphonso as Woodpecker Squash continues IT was a battle of the siblings as the second night of play served off in the Woodpecker Products Junior National Squash Tournament at the Georgetown Club on Wednesday, with the Da Silva brothers, Louis and Brenno, in the Boys’ Under-11, and the Fernandes sisters Paige and Christiana in Girls’ Under-13. Age won out in both matches with the older siblings winning in three straight games.

In the Boys’ Under-13, Mohryan Baksh put some real pressure on Demetrius DeAbreu. Although DeAbreu dominated the first two games, Baksh hunted every ball and both youngsters fought hard in some outstanding rallies.

DeAbreu won the first game 11-6 and took the second 11-5, but almost conceded the third when the game reached 10-all.

DeAbreu’s famous slides took him to what seemed unreachable balls for him to take the game and match 12-10.

Michael Alphonso controlled the other Boys’ Under-13 match against Nicholas Verwey in a three straight wins with the style and superior play that belie a 12-yearold player.

The Girls’ Under-17 match-up with Makeda Harding and Madison Fernandes came with sound effects as both girls hit powerhouse shots against the other. Harding managed to send Fernandes the wrong way with deceptive shots and found the nick numerous times, but Fernandes held her own disrupting the 3-0 run of all matches thus far in the tournament, when she bested Harding in the third game.

However, Harding came through to triumph 11-5, 11-9, 9-11, 11-8.

The Islam twins, Daniel and Anthony, both won their matches, as did unbeaten

Shomari Wiltshire and Samuel Ince-Carvalhal.

Matches continue every night at 18:00hrs.

The full list of matches is as follows Wednesday May 9 Under-11 Boys Louis DaSilva beat Breno DaSilva 11-0, 11-0, 11-0.

Chad DeAbreu beat Grant Fernandes 11-1, 11-5, 11-2 .

Under-13 Girls Paige Fernandes beat Christiana Fernandes 11-3, 11-3, 11-7.

Under-13 Boys James Mekdeci beat Lucas Persaud 114, 11-0, 11-3.

Demetrius DeAbreu beat Mohryan Baksh 11-6, 11-5, 12-10.

Michael Alphonso beat Nicholas Verwey 11-3, 11-8, 11-1.

Under-15 Girls Kirsten Gomes beat Teja Edwards 11-1, 11-2, 11-0.

Abosaide Cadogan beat M. Persaud 11-1, 11-0, 11-1.

Under-15 Boys Samuel Ince-Carvalhal beat Zachary Persuad 11-1, 11-2, 11-6.

Samuel Ince-Carvalhal beat Demetrius DeAbreu 11-6, 11-6, 11-5.

Under-17 Girls Makeda Harding beat Madison Fernandes 11-5, 11-9, 9-11, 11-8.

Under-17 Boys Shomari Wiltshire beat Lucas Jonas 1-/0, 11-0, 11-1.

Daniel Islam beat Gianni Carpenter 115, 11-2, 11-4.

Anthony Islam beat Osmond Mack 112, 11-2, 11-4.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 11, 2018

Dhawan and Williamson star as Sunrisers secure IPL play-off spot SUNRISERS Hyderabad overcame a century from Delhi Daredevils’ Rishabh Pant to triumph by nine wickets and secure a place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) play-offs.

Shikhar Dhawan and Kane Williamson were unbeaten on 92 and 83 respectively as the table-topping Sunrisers cruised to a sixth straight win.

The duo put on an unbroken stand worth 176 following the early departure of Alex Hales, their exploits overshadowing a superb innings from Pant that powered

the Daredevils to 187-5.

The 20-year-old lefthander made 128 not out from just 63 deliveries, making him the second-youngest player to reach three figures in the history of the competition.

Delhi were indebted to Pant for the digging them out of early trouble and their final total appeared competitive at the halfway stage of the contest.

However, the experienced duo of Dhawan and Williamson combined to see their side home at a canter, with the result ending the

Daredevils’ slim hopes of finishing the regular season in the top four.

Having decided to bat first after winning the toss, Delhi’s hopes of kick-starting their disappointing campaign were hampered by an early collapse.

The introduction of spinner Shakib Al Hasan accounted for opening duo Prithvi Shaw and Jason Roy, while Daredevils skipper Shreyas Iyer was run out following a mix-up with Pant to leave the score at 43-3.

Harshal Patel made 24 to help turn the tide before Pant

took centre stage, smashing 15 fours and seven sixes including a lofted drive over long-on despite having just one hand on the bat - to put the Sunrisers under pressure.

He took a particularly liking to Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the 20th over, taking the India seamer for 26 off the final five deliveries following the dismissal of Glenn Maxwell.

While Hales was trapped lbw to Patel for 14 in the second over, the early wicket only allowed captain Williamson to join forces with Dhawan and share a record

Shikhar Dhawan and Kane Williamson posted a 176-run partnership to take Sunrisers to playoffs. (BCCI)

stand for the franchise.

After a lean spell, Dhawan returned to form on familiar territory, the Delhi-born left-hander adding four sixes to his nine fours as he consistently kept the Sunrisers on course in a perfectly timed pursuit.

Williamson was happy to play second fiddle to his team-mate, though the New Zealander did hit the winning runs off compatriot Trent Boult to see his team over the line with seven balls to spare.(Omnisport)

Holder calls for Beaton to be respected

By Elroy Stephney FORMER president of the Essequibo Cricket Board, Prince Holder, has come out in defence of West Indies one-day international fast bowler Ronsford Beaton, in the wake of his ban by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the recent comments made by the president of the Guyana Cricket Board, Fizul Bacchus.

Holder, who is also the president of the North Essequibo Cricket Committee, disclosed that Beaton remains a huge inspiration to cricketers in Essequibo and indeed across the Region.

He further remarked that

the cricketer must be respected during his time of challenges while acknowledging that he needs all the support from every corner of the globe where he would have brought tremendous joy and pleasure to fans.

During an interview with Chronicle Sport, Holder expressed his displeasure with the negative comments emanating from the president of the Essequibo Cricket Board.

“It is unfortunate that the head of a county board which Beaton would have represented would make such insensitive statements about one of his charges,” Holder lamented.

He further reasoned, ‘Beaton is no angel, but I can vouch

for the fine qualities of the young man, who is a consummate professional and who has worked tremendously hard at achieving his goals.”

“I believe that the president should retract such damaging statements otherwise he is damaging the future of this leading international cricketer and will also further damage his relationship with the board.”

Acting president of the Guyana Cricket Board Mr. Fizul Bacchus was recently reported in the press as claiming that Beaton is undisciplined and doesn’t listen to anyone. His comments have since been criticised by a wide cross-section of the sporting fraternity, including

GHB Developmental Leagues suspended due to bad weather …Bingo Spartans, GCC Pitbulls top of the table after first round THE Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) has suspended their outdoor Developmental U-19 and second division leagues due to the inclement weather conditions. Additionally the GHB indicated that they have taken into consideration, the fact that some of the U-19 players have CSEC and CAPE examinations ongoing.

The suspension is in effect until further notice from the Board.

The leagues (male and female) which are played at the Saints Ground on Carifesta Avenue, has seen the

completion of round one with the GCC Pitbulls (male U-19) and the Bingo Spartans (female U-19) top of their respective tables.

Over in the second division leagues Bounty GCC (men) occupy the top spot while on the distaff side Bingo Spartans are undefeated and look like clear favourites to walk away with the trophy.

While the Bounty GCC men are top, the veterans from GCC ‘The Sequel’ are in second position and will be looking to come back strongly in the second and final round when the league resumes.

The top scorer for the U-19 females is Abosaide Cadogan (Bingo Spartans) with eight goals, she is followed by teammate Alana Cheung who has five.

With seven goals, Baraka Garnett from Hikers, is the leading goal scorer while Old Fort’s Omar Hopkinson has six.

National player Jael Gaskin from Old Fort is the leading goal scorer for the males with eight goals, while Carina Moller (Pizza Hut GCC) has racked up seven goals thus far to lead the females.

the president of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Hilbert Foster who, in a letter to the press, has called for the ECB and GCB to apologise to the

cricketer.

Beaton was indefinitely banned by the ICC for his bowling action. He will now undergo remedial train-

ing and CWI has already engaged the process by selecting him for a bowling camp in Antigua which has commenced.

Pepsi renews partnership with RHTY&SC THE highly-successful relationship between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS (RHTY&SC, MS) and Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), through its international soft drink brand Pepsi, has been renewed for the 15th consecutive year.

Last Tuesday, the company renewed its cricket sponsorship of the RHTY&SC, MS Under-19 and Intermediate cricket teams. Pepsi has been sponsoring the teams since 2004 when they replaced former official sponsor Guyana

Telephone and Telegraph Company.

Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the long-standing relationship between the club and the official sponsor. He stated that DDL and Pepsi are two of the main reasons why the RHTY&SC, MS is widely considered Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation with an unmatched list of activities and achievements.

“The 2018 sponsorship deal is worth $240 000 Turn to page 26 ►

RHTY&SC cricket manager Robby Kissoonlall receives the sponsorship from Sherese Leander, Marketing representative of DDL.

PAGE

29

Media, players, sponsors and associations to be honoured at GFF Awards ceremony tonight PAGE

26

Windies to play T20s against Bangladesh August, no room for Pakistan

Windies to play T20s against Bangladesh in August in the USA.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018