2014 10 24

GUYANA

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

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MASSIVE TURNOUT IN LETHEM No. 103990 FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

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- As Gov’t rolls out countrywide ‘Because We Care’ education cash grant initiative in Region 9

Centre

‘HUGE TURNOUT’: President Donald Ramotar, Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett as they greet hundreds of Region Nine residents at the Benab in St. Ignatius, near Lethem, yesterday. (Adrian Narine photos)

President Ramotar ...

Diwali lessons could help overcome 2 difficulties

Lightning sets Page 10 Lethem house on fire ––two of six children hospitalised

Page

President Donald Ramotar and First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar lighting their diya (Photo by Sonell Nelson)

–with effort,hard work

The house in Lethem after the fire

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

President Ramotar ...

Diwali lessons could help overcome difficulties –with effort, hard work

One of the beautifully decorated houses in Campbellville

GUYANESE yesterday celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, with the lighting of diyas and the sharing of sweet meats.

The diyas, with their little lights, illuminated the houses, which is spiritually significant, signifying the victory of light over darkness; knowledge over ignorance; good over evil and hope over despair.

Many houses were lit with rows of diyas from as early as 18:00hrs as the celebration of the festival unfolded with some families performing their Lakshmi puja before the lighting ceremony. Throughout various villages and streets in Georgetown, persons were seen with trays of diyas decorating their homes with the little ones also getting involved.

Speaking with this reporter at their homes on the East Bank of De-

merara, many residents related that persons over the years have sought to make “work easy” by using fairy lights instead of the traditional diyas.

Mrs Narine, from Eccles, noted that since in her “young days as a little girl” to present, she lights her clay- made diyas. Another resident told the Guyana Chronicle that this is her favourite time in the Hindu calendar and what she likes the most “is the togetherness it fosters with all Guyanese.”

Also taking part in this auspicious Festival of Lights were President Donald Ramotar and First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar, who transformed State House into a scintillating row of lit diyas and beautifully created “Rangolis.” Last evening, they hosted their See page 11

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Thousands delighted at ‘creative masterpieces’ in Diwali motorcade

By Savitri Laikram

THOUSANDS of persons lined the East Coast carriageway, all the way to the village of La Bonne Intention (LBI) Wednesday evening to watch the spectacular unfolding of the annual Diwali motorcade in celebration of the Festival of Lights.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has

would not be what it is today if it weren’t for the visionary leadership of Pandit Persaud who envisaged the magnitude which this celebration would achieve after years of hard work and dedication.

SIMPLE START Dr Persaud highlighted that what started in a simple manner with horsedrawn carts and carriages and a few

President Donald Ramotar meeting several persons awaiting the start of the formal proceedings at the LBI Community Centre Ground been tirelessly putting forward these colourful displays of various representations of the meaning of the event for 40 years.

According to President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhiya Persaud, the Diwlai motorcade displayed the creativity of Hindu believers, and was initiated by then president of the GHDS, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud.

She reiterated that the motorcade

cars bedecked with fairy lights has emerged into something grand and spectacular.

She lauded the floats as they entered the LBI Community Centre Ground, and labelled them “creative masterpieces” done by talented Guyanese.

She urged that all Guyanese follow the profound message which Diwali sends, that is the defeat of evil and the triumph

President Donald Ramotar looking at one of the floats at the LBI Community Centre Ground (Photos courtesy of GINA)

of good, to eliminate the darkness and negativity out of their lives and find the light within.

Dr Persaud expressed her gratitude at the tremendous support the motorcade has received for the past 40 years.

Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar expressed his delight at being present for the auspicious festival.

UNIVERSAL MESSAGE He pointed out that the occasion has a great universal message which most can relate to, such as the triumph of good over evil, as well as the victory of light over darkness and the victory of truth over lies.

The President related that these messages indicate that everyone’s wrongdoing will come to light at some point, as today in Guyana, that is what we are witnessing.

He explained that Guyana is experiencing the set of people who believe that by keeping people in ignorance, or by feeding them with lies and misinformation, that will fulfil their purpose, but like the messages given by this festival, “it gives us hope that our people will eventually see through many of the lies that are being perpetuated today.”

President Ramotar noted that there are persons who have tried very hard to have the progress and development of this country stymied, but this cannot be allowed as “ we have come too far to turn back, too far to go back.”

“Tonight, stand by me! Stand by the Government as we move forward to build a country of peace, progress and prosperity,” he urged.

PRIZES The 40th annual Diwali Motorcade saw the participation of 26 floats, and prizes were awarded for small and large

categories as well as the commercial category.

Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd copped the prizes for Best Overall Float and first prize in the large category division.

The prizes were donated by various sponsors of the event, including the Pomeroon Oil company, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), and Digicel among other business entities.

President Donald Ramotar addressing the mammoth crowd gathered at the LBI Community Centre Ground

President Donald Ramotar, Dr Vindhya Persaud and other dignitaries at the LBI Community Centre Ground Wednesday evening

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

EU leaders agree CO2 emissions cut

US-led Syria strikes ‘kill 553’ (BBC) US-led air strikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Syria have killed 553 people since September, UK-based activists say.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says 464 IS fighters, 57 other militants and 32 civilians have died.

Meanwhile, the US has carried out more air strikes against IS positions near the besieged town of Kobane.

Kurdish sources told BBC Arabic that IS had retaken a strategically important hilltop 4km west of the town.

Kurdish forces fighting IS in Kobane took Tal Shair nine days ago.

Reports also suggest IS fighters have been shelling Kurdish positions and attacking the town centre.

Syrian Kurdish sources told the BBC that IS fighters launched intensive attacks on Wednesday night from the southern and eastern parts of the town, in an apparent attempt to get access to the town centre.

The fighting resumed on Thursday morning after a brief period of calm, the sources added.

Intense fighting has resumed around Kobane after a relative lull Air strikes are believed to have delayed the IS advance on Kobane, but may not stop

the town from falling The US military says that its fighters and bombers conducted six air strikes against IS positions in Syria on Wednesday and Thursday, including four attacks near Kobane which destroyed IS fighting positions, an IS vehicle and an IS command-and-control centre.

A US military statement said that the attacks in Syria - as well as nine air strikes against IS positions in Iraq on Wednesday and Thursday - were intended to eliminate the “terrorist group” and the threat it poses to the region and the wider international community.

(BBC) EUROPEAN Union leaders have reached a landmark deal to cut greenhouse emissions by 40% by 2030, compared with 1990 levels.

The decision was agreed after heated discussions at a summit in Brussels, as some members had argued that their varied interests should be protected.

Correspondents say it could make the EU a leader again in climate policy.

The bloc also aims to boost the use of renewable energy to 27% in the total energy mix.

There were deep divisions within the EU on emissions cuts.

Poland, which is heavily reliant on coal, fears that the

Ebola crisis: Mali confirms first infection case

(BBC)THE Mali government has confirmed the first case of Ebola in the country.

It said a two-year-old girl had tested positive for

the haemorrhagic virus. She recently returned from the neighbouring Guinea.

More than 4,800 people have died of Ebola - mainly in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra

Leone - since March.

Meanwhile, an international team of scientists has been set up to determine the effectiveness of using the blood of Ebola survivors as a treatment.

It is hoped the antibodies used by the immune system to fight Ebola can be transferred from a survivor to a patient.

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costs of decarbonising its economy will slow business growth. Its concerns at the summit were echoed by other central and east European members.

Like them, the UK also had opposed nationally binding targets for renewables - mainly wind, solar and hydroelectric power.

The UK is also embracing shale gas and nuclear as alternatives to the current over-reliance on oil and gas imports.

Leaders had been cautious about the prospect of a deal, before holding talks late into the night.

‘Ambitious position’ But in the early hours of Friday, the President of

the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, wrote in a tweet: “Deal! At least 40% emissions cut by 2030.

World’s most ambitious, cost-effective, fair #EU2030 climate energy policy agreed .”

The EU Commissioner for Climate Action, Connie Hedegaard, said she was “very proud” that the leaders “were able to get their act together on this pressing climate challenge”.

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said: “We made a decisive step forward.”

The EU is already on target to cut its CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020, compared with 1990 emission levels.

Nigeria’s Boko Haram ‘abducts more women and girls’ (BBC) DOZENS of women and girls from two villages in Nigeria’s north-eastern Adamawa state have been

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abducted by suspected militants, residents say.

The abductions have not been confirmed by the authorities, but residents say they took place a day after the military announced it had agreed a ceasefire with the Boko Haram group.

The government hopes the Islamist group will free

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more than 200 girls seized in April as part of negotiations.

Boko Haram has not confirmed the truce.

Following Friday’s ceasefire announcement, the government said further talks with Boko Haram were due to be held this week in neighbouring Chad.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Human Rights Watch...

LGBT Jamaicans are targets of violence (BBC)LESBIAN, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Jamaica face “intolerable levels of violence and cannot rely on the police” for protection, Human Rights Watch said.

In a report, the rights group also documented cases of LGBT Jamaicans being refused housing or employment.

The New York-based organisation said police investigations were “often inadequate or lacking altogether.”

The Caribbean island has

a reputation of intolerance towards LGBT people.

Correspondents say many residents in the largely Christian country consider homosexuality to be sinful.

homes, or worse: beaten, stoned, raped, or killed.”

Last year, a transgender teenager, Dwayne Jones, was killed by a crowd outside the Jamaican city of Montego Bay, but the murder remains unsolved.

‘BEATEN OR KILLED’ Human Rights Watch said: “LGBT Jamaicans are vulnerable to both physical and sexual violence and many live in constant fear.

“They are taunted, threatened, fired from their jobs, thrown out of their

In its report titled “Not Safe at Home”, the rights group documented 56 cases of violence in which victims reported they were targeted because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or identity.

It called on the Jamaican

government to strike down anti-sodomy laws and take measures to protect LGBT Jamaicans from discrimination and violence.

“In the past decade the Jamaican police have taken some steps to address the scourge of homophobic violence, but clearly these steps are not enough,” said Graeme Reid, LGBT rights director at Human Rights Watch.

“So long as discriminatory laws remain in place, piecemeal measures will

never be adequate.

“The authorities from the prime minister on down need to call a halt to the violence and discrimination, prosecute anyone responsible, and get homophobic laws off the books,” Mr Reid added.

Jamaica is among many English-speaking Caribbean nations with anti-sodomy laws.

The report also documented cases of discrimination by government institutions, including health care facilities and in the private

sector.

“Families and neighbours often drive LGBT people from their homes and communities.

“Landlords refuse to rent to LGBT people; health providers stigmatise them when they seek services; and employers arbitrarily fire them,” the rights group said in a press release.

The Human Rights Watch report was the result of five weeks of field research in Jamaica in April and June 2013.

‘Roti season’ as buyers crowd shops said. “When people think curry, they think Patraj.”

One customer waiting to pick up his order told the Express that although he is

LOCAL FAVOURITE: Annie Patraj turning ‘buss-up-shot’ on a tawah yesterday at Patraj Roti Shop on Tragarete Road, Woodbrook, where there was a steady stream of customers, as is traditional on the Divali holiday (Photo by Anisto Alve) 10 a.m. yesterday, there were

By Camille Hunte almost 50 people lined up up-shot”.

But what is it about Di- outside already.

ROTI shops throughout vali that makes people crave Even in the rain, they Port of Spain were jam- roti? waited, she said. packed with customers as By 1 p.m., more than 200 As one customer exTrinidad and Tobago cel- plained: “We have three people had been served, in ebrated the Divali holiday seasons in Trinidad--rainy addition to those who had yesterday. season, dry season and roti previously placed their orBuyers of all races lined season. This is roti season.” ders, she added. the pavement outside HoPausing momentarily It is such a busy season sein’s Roti Shop on Inde- that customers start placing from taking orders from the pendence Square. Inside the their orders almost a week steady stream of late-coming shop, there was not a single in advance of the holiday, customers around 1.30 p.m., space for another human according to Patraj owner, Singh said the Divali rush body to fit.

29-year-old Samantha Singh. was no surprise.

The Express visited Pa“This is usually one of But even though many traj Roti Shop on Traga- choose to order in advance, the busiest times of year. It rete Road and Hot Shoppe many more walk in off the is probably just behind Caron Mucurapo Road and the streets to make their purchas- nival,” she said. scene was almost the same.

“I think because we’ve es on Divali day, Singh said.

Customers endured the Singh said when she been around close to 50 long wait to get their hands opened the shop at around years now, we have a name on dhalpuri skins and “bussin the roti business,” Singh

not Hindu, every Divali he marks the occasion with a large curried meal.

“It is in the air and you get caught up in it. Just

like Christmas...even if you don’t celebrate it, you still want ham and sorrel. It’s the same for Divali. You must have curry for Divali.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Guyana on the brink WORD going the rounds is that Guyana is on the brink. But the question arises: On the brink of what? On one hand the Government is driving development on an upward trajectory in a multiplicity of ways. On the other hand, the joint Opposition is hell-bent on stymieing development in every conceivable way.

We are a developing country, emerging from a history of a plethora of destructive elemental forces. Our nation had been devastated to the point where even the more optimistic thought that we would never emerge from the quagmire in which we had been immersed for decades. We were at the point where even the more altruistic funding agencies had practically written us off as almost beyond redemption.

That’s until Jimmy Carter decided, in the interest of justice, and in light

of the contention of Guyana’s supreme leader, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, that the PPP had been “cheated, not defeated” for decades during general elections. The Carter Center then used its phenomenal power to force the Hoyte administration, which is recorded to have been responsible for the worst election rigging in the history of Guyana during the general elections of 1985, as well as the Draconian Economic Recovery Programme (ERP or Empty Rice Pots) that he had imposed on the Guyanese people, to concede to having relatively “free and fair” general elections in our country after decades of PNC rule.

Dr. Jagan was vindicated and the reconfigured PPP, with its civic component, undertook the gargantuan task of trying to restore some order out of the critical and chaotic national landscape then prevailing – in every area.

One of the more pressing needs was to reduce the crippling debt burden - $2.1 billion, which was stymieing rehabilitation and developmental works.

Dr. Jagan and his brilliant and trusted protege, junior Finance Minister Bharrat Jagdeo, went into overdrive, lobbying at every conceivable forum for a reduction and/or write-off of the albatross of Guyana’s debt.

The international world responded favourably over the years and this, coupled with prudent fiscal management, has enabled Guyana to stabilise its economy.

This has also allowed some degree of growth, in less than two decades, to the extent where, in a recessional global environment, Guyana has managed to maintain stability and sustain its macro-economic achievements.

The importance of this to the nation-

al economic health and the development of Guyana’s macro-economic fundamentals is being attested to by some big leaguers in the entrepreneurial fraternity, most of whom are not traditional PPP supporters.

However, they are honest enough to publicly recognise the Government’s policies and strategies, and its willingness to engage in interactive programmes for the development of the private sector’s initiatives.

Yet the joint Opposition has no qualms in putting all the gains in peril by their non-support of the AML/CFT Bill.

So, Guyana is on the brink, of either disaster, if the Opposition prevails; or runaway development if the Government’s endeavours hold sway.

Only time will tell which direction this nation’s future will take.

Sattaur’s lawyer ...

Action against Kaieteur News ‘imminent’ ––following breach of court order

THE persistent publication of defamatory statements about the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur represent a breach of a court order

KHURSHID SATTAUR issued last month.

This is according to Sattaur’s lawyer, Mr. Mahendra Satram, in a letter seen by the Guyana Chronicle where he stated that legal recourse to address this breach is imminent.

He said, “(We) have successfully secured an injunction against all of these parties from publishing libelous statements carried in the Kaieteur News Newspaper. “…the defendants have all been in contempt of court for flagrant disregard of the order of court and appropriate action against these parties are imminent.

“These persons have now published several unfounded and unsubstantiated statements suggesting that the Commissioner-General has committed gross professional misconduct together with statements purportedly made by executives of the Institute/Association (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana [ICAG]).”

COURT ORDER Justice Sandra Kurtzious, in the latter part of September, granted the injunction against Kaieteur News, preventing the daily newspaper from publishing defamatory statements about the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur.

She ordered that Kaieteur News is restrained from further writing, printing,

publishing, circulating or causing to be written, printed, published or circulated defamatory material about Sattaur.

National Media and Publishing Company Limited, publishers of the local daily, its owner Glenn Lall and editor Mr. Adam Harris were named in the order granting the injunction.

The injunction was granted after an ex-parte application filed by Sattaur’s lawyers on Wednesday. The application also called for aggravated damages, in excess of $500M, for libel resulting from the false and/or malicious writings published.

The move by Sattaur’s legal representatives follows allegations made in Kaieteur News articles and columns, which stated that: the GRA Head compromised confidential tax information; he breached his of Oath of Office; and was involved in a plot to destroy the newspaper, among other assertions.

The news items were made public in several editions of the newspaper, including that of: 31st, August, 2014; 7th September, 2014; 10th September, 2014; 11th September, 2014; 14th September, 2014; 16th September, 2014; 21st September, 2014; and the 23rd September, 2014.

The injunction is valid until a deter-

mination is made in the matter, which is expected to be heard in Chambers on October 14, 2014 at 9:00am. On October 14, the defendants were granted

GLENN LALL time (leave) to provide an affidavit in answer, however, the injunction still stands. The named defendants will be liable for failing to comply with Justice Kurtzious’ order.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Counsel calls for confirmation of investigation into Sattaur’s conduct ––on suspicion of ‘fabricated’ publications

THE Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana (ICAG), the local branch of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), is being called upon to confirm, inter alia, that it has launched an investigation into the conduct of the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Commissioner-General, Mr. Khurshid Sattaur.

The call was made via a letter to the Institute by Sattaur’s legal representative, Mr. Mahendra Satram, pointing out that at no point has his client been informed that there was an investigation underway.

“It is highly irregular for the Association to commence or conduct an investigation or inquiry without notifying the affected member,” Satram is quoted as saying in the missive, adding: “For this reason, it is suspected that these publications may be fabrications on the part of the aforementioned persons. However, the silence of the Association and its executives leaves room for speculation.”

According to the letter, the Institute is also being called on to: * Confirm what is the nature of the purported investigation, if any; * Advise whether the Institute has communicated with the embattled Kaieteur News, as indicated in an article published on Wednesday, under the headline ‘Accounting body launches probe against GRA’s Chief over tax info leaks’; * Issue a clear and unequivocal statement denouncing the “unsubstantiated and malicious attacks designed to malign the character” of the GRA Head, as well as to forestall the execution by the Authority of its statutory duty and mandate; and * Publicly articulate their position on the illegally obtained taxpayer information.

Said Satram, “My clients will pursue their statutory duties and obligations with professionalism and rectitude… my clients view these developments as alarming and distressing and expect the Institute to disassociate itself from such reprehensible conduct. I anticipate your expeditious response and action.”

UNFOUNDED ALLEGATIONS The attorney-at-law added that the fact that the Kaieteur News has suggested that ICAG has not only commenced investigations against Mr. Sattaur, but may have already formed an opinion on the issues is troubling.

“We have noted (this) with disgust and consternation,” he said, adding that the claims are unfounded allegations.

Satram stated too that ICAG must take into consideration several things, including: * The public statement by the GRA confirming that there were “illegal disclosures and unlawful transmission of sensitive taxpayer information, personal information on the Head of GRA and other internal workings” of the Authority; * The position of the GRA regarding how this information was released and by what means Mr. Lall obtained them; and * The statement from the GRA, which maintains that the four e-mails, which have been published repeatedly

bean Community) product, which enjoys duty free concessions under the Revised Treaty of Chaguramas.

Upon closer inspection, however, it was allegedly found that the origin of the inks was from overseas, and therefore in breach of the Treaty.

As it relates to the progress of the investigation of the alleged tax evasion, the Guyana Chronicle has been given to understand that the necessary verification requests are still with the relevant authorities in Trinidad and Tobago.

Prior to the tax evasion allegation, Mr. Lall was fingered in an alleged remigrant duty-free concession scam.

‘It appears that the Institute (ICAG) is an unwitting participant in the malicious and vindictive campaign by Glenn Lall and Kaieteur News to malign and disparage the character of Mr. Sattaur and to bring the GRA into disrepute’ – Mahendra Satram by the embattled Kaieteur News over the past few days, are false.

The lawyer was emphatic in stressing that there is a move to “avoid and stultify” an impending audit of the operations of Kaieteur News.

“These self-serving statements and allegations are designed to force Mr. Sattaur and the GRA to abandon an investigation into the tax affairs of the aforementioned individuals,” Satram opined.

He pointed out that the work of the GRA’s Commissioner-General has resulted in criminal charges being filed against the publisher of the Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall.

Satram said, “Subsequent to and as a consequence of the institution of these charges Lall commenced a campaign in his daily newspaper to smear and blemish the sterling character of the Commissioner-General.

“It appears that the Institute is an unwitting participant in the malicious and vindictive campaign

by Glenn Lall and Kaieteur News to malign and disparage the character of Mr. Sattaur and to bring the GRA into disrepute.”

ISSUES In early September, Lall was alleged to have evaded taxes for over a decade now. Reports are that Mr. Lall, the owner of the Guyana National Media Publishing Company, is being investigated by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for the importation of printing ink packaged as a CARICOM (Carib-

Six criminal charges altogether have been since filed against Lall; his wife Bhena; and Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan, who have all been implicated in the scam. Lall and his wife have since been arraigned on four of these charges. The charges follow the seizure of two vehicles allegedly at the centre of a duty-free scam. The two vehicles in question, PRR 8398 and PRR 8399, were handed over to GRA and impounded at the Authority’s warehouse at the end of August, after an hourslong standoff between GRA officials and the Brijnanans’ son, Navin Sankar, a high-ranking GRA employee. An investigation was then launched to ensure that procedures and policy, as well as the provisions of the law were adhered to.

The criminal charges, this newspaper understands, stem from that investigation.

Also, in mid-September, both Lall and his wife were sued by acting Town Clerk of the Mayor and City Council, Ms Carol Sooba, for the sum of $5,660,142.00 and $60,142 as unpaid rates and taxes for the years 2004 to 2013 in relation to their property at 24 Saffon Street.

The case is current-

KHURSHID SATTAUR ly being heard at the Georgetown Magistrates Court. In a defence seen by this newspaper and filed by attorney-at-law, Mr Khemraj Ramjattan, the Lalls claim that they had a set-off arrangement with the City Council, and they are not indebted for the taxes and that they repaid these taxes by publication of advertisements in the Kaieteur News. However, a source in the accounting department at City Hall denies any such arrangement.

“There is certainly no document in writing to this effect,” the source disclosed.

Additionally, the Kaieteur News has been slapped with countless lawsuits and injunctions for libel.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

More immigration headache with T&T Analysis by Rickey Singh ONCE again, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago are openly engaged in disruptive talk involving freedom of movement and extended illegal stays of their nationals.

This time, there’s an ominous warning from National Security Minister, Gary Griffith, that he has had more than enough of thousands of ‘illegals’ --mostly Jamaicans and Guyanese -- piling up there, to the detriment of the citizens of the twin-island state.

In that angry mood, the minister had earlier authorised “no entry” into the country of 13 Jamaican citizens. That development had evoked a warning from Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, A.J. Nicholson, that the T&T National Security Minister should “refrain from continuing to muddy the integration waters…”

Muddying of CARICOM’s “integration waters”? Well, read that to mean refusal to adhere to policies and arrangements consistent with official commitment to freedom of intra-regional movement, an apparent ‘sin’ being committed by more than T&T. This recurring problem often affects more than Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, but with Jamaicans and Guyanese being the worse affected Community nationals in that country, according to official data.

While the so-called ‘war of words’ between officialdom in Kingston and Port-of-Spain continue, there are a few interesting ‘sideshows’ involving Community nationals whose intra-regional ‘free movement’ activities continue to capture media headlines.

Take two most recent examples, as reported in

Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, A.J. Nicholson; and sections of the local media. yesterday headlining that a While the ‘Express’ was Jamaican, Rachel Biesray,

had captured the ‘crown’ for this year’s “Miss Divali Nagar”, ‘Newsday’ was reporting on legal action being pursued by a Guyanese-born Muslim, Gerald Perreira.

His proposed move to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) against the Jamaican authorities (Remember the famous Shanique Myrie case?) has to do with his reported denial of entry into that country to participate in the 19th anniversary celebration of the ‘Million Man March’ associated with the well known American militant, Louis Farrakhan.

Unpleasant as it is, particularly for affected freedom-of-movement victims with no prior involvement with immigration authorities at ports of entry, the harsh reality is that amid spreading social and economic problems, even big and developed nations are increasingly resorting to restrictive policies and measures to curb migration.

The latest manifestation of this came last week from Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron, who, in seeking to placate anti-immigration Tories, pledged to have “one last go” (ahead of new elections) to curb the flow of migrants from the European Union (EU).

CURBING MIGRANTS IN UK

T&T National Security Minister, Gary Griffith

This declaration by the British Prime Minister served to remind this columnist that for all their continuing unhelpful public utterances, both the governments of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago are yet to demonstrate their stated commitment to move towards resolution of the identified problems involving the freedom of move-

British Prime Minister, Mr David Cameron

ment of their nationals.

A classic example is their utter failure to give proof of commitment to implementation of the initiatives so elegantly articulated in a welcome ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ signed last July 1 between the Foreign Ministers of Trinidad and Tobago (Winston Dookeran) and Jamaica (A. J. Nicholson).

A primary feature of that Memorandum was the provision for the creation of a Joint Commission to “enhance functional cooperation” with the removal of constant irritants that affect normal, desirable mutual cooperation to strengthen relations consistent with shared commitment to advance the policies and programmes of the 15-member Caribbean Community.

If, indeed, a relevant mechanism for mutual cooperation was established under the terms of the Dookeran/Nicholson Memorandum of last July, then not only citizens of their countries need to know of the progress, if any is achieved, but citizens of the Community in general.

Angry talk by Nicholson about Griffith’s “muddying of integration waters”, or the latter’s warning against resort by Jamaica to “lecturing” T&T on how to conduct its affairs, have proven unhelpful.

Perhaps the proposed Joint T&T/Jamaica Commission should be seen to be functioning, instead of perpetuating angry official rhetoric. The current immigration tango between Port-of-Spain and Kingston is most unpleasant.

Berbice criminal sessions open

…jury sworn in Portuguese Quarters murder trial ALTHOUGH there was a ceremonial opening of the Berbice Assizes with the traditional march past by ranks of the Berbice Police division, the declaration of the opening of the

October criminal sessions seemed to be forgotten by the Court Marshal as Justice James Bovell Drakes took the bench to commence the session which will conclude in

February.

Consequently, a mixed jury was sworn in in the case of the State versus Dharampaul Gopaul.

The accused, who is represented by attorneys-at-law,

Ms. Tania Warren Clements, in association of Kim Kyte John, pleaded not guilty to the indictment, following his arraignment.

Gopaul alias, Paulie Gulliver is alleged to have

unlawfully killed Mukesh Nandkishore called Muca on February 6, 2009, at Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, Corentyne.

State Prosecutrix, Ms. Renita Singh has

deferred the opening of the State’s case to Monday, when the trial will commence.

Six witnesses are expected to testify during the seven-day trial.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Lusignan father of three killed in hit-and-run accident ––brother similarly killed on same spot nine years ago

By Leroy Smith

the influence of alcohol when he was struck down, Denesh initially responded in the negative, but quickly said that it might have been the first time he was sober, and

the brother of the Good Samaritan who had chased after the hit-and-run driver.

However, Singh soon succumbed to his injures, and many persons felt that this may

Travis Taxi Service driver was taken into police custody.

PEDESTRIAN Deonarine Singh, 49, Initial reports indicated that the driver of 164 Lusignan Public Road, ECD, was not under the influence of alcohol at the a father of three, was on time of the accident Tuesday Wednesday night killed night. in front of his home by a When this newspaper visdriver who was reportedly ited the Vigilance Police Staspeeding while overtaking tion, the silver-grey Toyota another vehicle.

Allion car, PLL 7933, was Speaking with this pubparked in the compound with lication yesterday mornsome amount of damage to ing, brother of the deceased the right front side. The right Danesh Singh said that he side mirror was missing, works as a taxi driver on the bumper and part of the the Lusignan Public Road fender were damaged, while and was incidentally passing the windscreen was cracked. his home when the accident The driver is said to be a resoccurred. ident of Enmore, East Coast He said that he was not Demerara. aware then that the pedestrian Meanwhile, in a most unwho had been struck down by fortunate turn of events, Deonthe driver travelling in front arine Singh is the second of his of him was his brother, but he siblings to die as a result of a gave chase behind the vehicle road accident. Yesterday, Octosince it did not stop. ber 23, marks nine years since Singh said he trailed the he lost another brother who was driver until he stopped a vilkilled on the same spot, just The home that the deceased shared with his mother and other relatives at Lusignan lage away. He said that he hours away from his brother’s cautioned the man, and took nine-year death anniversary. him back to the scene, and even advised that it was rather unfortunate that he died have been avoided if the driver had taken And like the accident on Tuesday him to render assistance to the injured man, while he was in the right. the man to the hospital. night, the errant driver, a pandit, was but he declined.

Meanwhile, persons soon realised that The police were informed of the acci- also a resident of Enmore, East Coast Asked whether his brother was under the man who was struck down was in fact dent and the man who was identified as Demerara.

Parliamentary Security Oversight Committee still to be convened ––Speaker to write House Leaders on issue

WORK has resumed at the level of several Parliamentary committees, according to the Parliament Office on Tuesday, despite the fact that there is still no fixed date for the next sitting of the National Assembly.

However, the long overdue first meeting of the Parliamentary Security Oversight Committee is still to be convened.

In the latter part of July, Speaker of the House, Mr. Raphael Trotman committed to convening the first meeting when the Assembly comes out of recess. The Assembly’s two-month recess ended on October 10, and now, nearly two weeks later, there is still no move in this regard.

In an invited comment yesterday, Trotman told the Guyana Chronicle that he will be writing the House leaders on the matter next week. “I will be writing to the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition next week on the matter,” he said.

Additionally, the contention of several Government Members of Parliament (MPs) is that the Opposition is avoiding a meeting because the Chair has to be a Government MP. DISCIPLINED SERVICES Former Attorney-General, Mr. Doodnauth Singh had, in 2009, tabled the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2009 in the

National Assembly. The Bill was intended to amend the Constitution by inserting a new Article, 119 D, providing for the establishment of a Standing Committee called the ‘Parliamentary Oversight Committee on the Security Sector’, which would have responsibility for the policies and administration of the country’s Disciplined Services.

The move was in keeping with an agreement made by national stakeholders during security consultations as recent as last March.

The original recommendation was made by a Special Select Committee reviewing the report of the Disciplined Forces Commission.

The issue had also been the subject of discussion at the level of the Parliamentary Management Committee.

COIs Since the commencement of the 10th Parliament, the combined Opposition has posed numerous questions on the security sector, and moved a few Motions demanding the appointment of Commissions of Inquiry (COIs) to investigate alleged breaches in the sector.

There are currently four sectoral committees, responsible for economic services, social services, natural resources and foreign relations. (Vanessa Narine)

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

In matter of Lall Vs Sattaur ...

Complainant says pace of investigations is discouraging THE Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has completed its investigations into the alleged threat made by publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall to the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur.

And the case file is back with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for the second time in less than 10 days. The file was initially sent to the DPP’s Chambers on October 14 and returned to Crime Chief Leslie James on October 15, who returned it to the DPP, Mrs. Shalimar Ali-Hack, for her recommendations.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, Mr. Sattaur expressed his disappointment with the pace of the investigations and contends that there seems to be some “hesitation” in bringing charges against Lall.

“I think the authorities are dragging

their feet on the matter. Today the threat is against me, tomorrow it could be them. As a public officer I, like them, am only fulfilling my statutory obligations,” he said.

The investigations followed a complaint made by the GRA Commissioner-General. He lodged a formal complaint at the Brickdam Police Station, regarding an alleged threat from publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall.

Standard Operating Procedures in similar matters require the lodging of one’s firearm, if the person making the alleged threat is a licensed firearm holder. However, it is unclear whether or not Lall has lodged his licensed firearm.

The alleged threats to the GRA Head were made in late August when two vehicles used by Lall and his wife and alleged to be part of a remigrant duty-free scam were im-

pounded by the Authority.

TELEPHONE CALL At the time Sattaur disclosed that he received a telephone call from a person “whose voice I recognised as Mr. Glenn Lall” and was threatened.

He said, “Lall called me from an overseas number and threatened to expose me; he threatened to deal with me in a matter, as if I’m a thief and he’s going to do this thing, because I am using my office to deal with the matters I normally deal with.

“He threatened to use his newspaper to expose me; I don’t know what wrong I am doing. If I am trying to do the Government’s work…I don’t know why people should be upset, if they are doing wrong things, they should be subject to the laws as well.”

According to Sattaur such actions, the making of threats, are unconscionable.

“I am not acting vindictively; I am doing my work. Mr. Lall is not excluded from paying taxes,” the GRA boss said.

The two vehicles in question, PRR 8398 and PRR 8399, which were handed over to GRA and impounded at the Authority’s warehouse, followed an hours-long standoff between GRA officials and Navin Sankar, a high-ranking GRA employee.

Six criminal charges altogether have since been filed against Lall, his wife Bhena, and Sankar’s parents, Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan, who have all been implicated in the scam. Lall and his wife have since been arraigned on four of the six charges.

The charges follow an investigation which was launched to ensure that procedures and policy as well as the provisions of the law were adhered to.

Lightning sets Lethem house on fire

––two of six children hospitalised

The house in Lethem after the fire THE home of a young Lethem mother and her six children was yesterday set on fire by heavy lightning in the Lethem area.

Two of her children, who were reportedly home alone when the fire started, were taken to the hospital by public-spirited citizens so they could receive medical attention.

Persons in the community rendered as much assistance as they could to quickly douse

the flames and save whatever belongings they could of the young mother and her family.

Minister of Education, Ms Priya Manickchand and Foreign Affairs Minister, Ms Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, who were both in the area at the time, paid a visit to the scene of the fire, and offered to provide whatever assistance they could to help the family return to normalcy as quickly as possible.

A close-up of the debris left behind

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Diwali lessons could help ...

From page 2

annual “Diwali Light-up.”

The cultural programme, as per tradition, started with prayers, followed by a prayer dance that was spectacularly done by the Jewan KaNritya Dance Group. Renditions of both religious and Filmi Diwali songs were done.

During brief remarks at the event, which saw several Members of the Cabinet and the Diplomatic Corps in

attendance, President Ramotar stated that Diwali has become a festival for all, regardless of religious backgrounds.

“We have a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic society that makes up Guyana and all these features and practices make up our diverse culture,” the Head of State said.

President Ramotar noted that the festival is a very significant one, with many universal messages such as victory of

All pay keen attention to the dance moves by the Jewan Ka Nritya dance troupe, including President Donald Ramotar; First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar and their son; Prime Minister Mr Samuel Hinds; Education Minister, Ms Priya Manickchand; Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran; and Housing Minister, Mr Irfaan Ali

These two young ladies assist their parents in decorating their yard with diyas

good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.He said that while it is true that people would have brought with them different cultural practices, “when one comes and lives in a multi-ethnic society, it becomes all of our culture.”

He explained that this beautiful festival has become part of Guyana’s history and society, and is one whose lessons could help persons to over-

come difficulties with effort and hard work. The Head of State thanked all who had assisted with preparation of the grounds and sweetmeats.One of the highlights of the evening was a surprise, belated birthday song done

by Ms Boodhoo on behalf of the First Lady, which captivated the audience when the President joined in to sing part of the rendition. (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

The Jewan Ka Nritya Dance troupe during one of their riveting performances

Diyas, all in a row, was the theme for this house (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Gov’t comes in for nothing but high praise -for its ‘Because We Care’ initiative

THE Government of Guyana has come in for nothing but high praise for its ‘Because We Care’ initiative, in spite of the negativity of the naysayers. The following is a good indication of how the ordinary man-in-the-street feels about the exercise.

BERNADETTE SIMON: “I think this is a good initiative by the government because there are some parents who really can’t afford to send their children to school, you know; find their uniforms and things for them. But I’m sure that with this $10,000, their children will be going to school often. There would be less school drop-outs if the government should continue giving this money to parents to assist their children to go to school, because education is important. And without an education, there is no place for you in this country. So, it’s a good thing the government is doing, because a lot of parents in Guyana now are single parents. I’m glad for myself, but I’m more glad for my neighbour, who has six children going to school with bags being held together by safety-pins. I’m glad their mother can now afford to buy proper school bags for them.”

S A N D R A GRIFFITH, Grandmother: “This is a good venture by the government. I think the criterion for giving this money next year should be attendance.

Children should have to attend school regularly before they get this money.

I have six grandchildren in the school system, and I’m planning to buy two bicycles for the high school students to go to school, because from where I’m living, transportation is very expensive. These bicycles will help improve their attendance. This is a very good initiative by the government; one of the best. And it should continue next year, and all the years to come.

I would like the Ministry to know that there are lots of children in Berbice who have not attended school since the new term started; the welfare officers from the Ministry should visit schools, get a list of absentees, and go to the children’s residences to investigate the reason why they are not in school.”

SALENE DATT, Grandmother: “This $10,000 grant is a great initiative by the government, but children who do not have an attendance record of 80 per cent or above should not get it. Give it to those who go to school often; this is a great help to single-parents.”

BIBI HUSSAIN, Nurse: “I’m very grateful, and it’s good that the government is giving $10,000 to each child; It will be a good help for some children who can’t afford travelling, textbooks or even lunch.

I hope it will continue for attendance to improve, so that the government can see an improvement for their investment.”

KAREN LOO: “I’VE got two children in the school system.

The little one is disabled, and, so far, the government has supported us by giving her a school. This money will be used strictly for taking her to and from school; this money should be spent on the kids. The government is doing a splendid job by giving this money to parents, for some of them really can’t afford to send their children to school. This will be a great help for them. So, hats off to the government for thinking about this project, and going through with it. The $10,000 is a support for me, and I’m very grateful for that.

My daughter is medically impaired after returning from an operation in Colombia. And through the combined efforts of the Minister of Health and the Minister of Education, they’ve started a new school here to benefit kids who are impaired, so they’re not left out of the education system. And because of that, my daughter is having good benefits now; she’s able to focus on the four main subjects, and she’s doing well. I must say “thank you” to the Administration.”

RAY ADAMS, Father: “I have two kids in school; the money is not to a large scale, but at least it can fill a hole. I’m grateful for it for the first, but I hope the government step-up to something bigger next year.”

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Designer Donna Ramsammy Massive fogging exercise to James to launch 2015 follow mosquito invasion collection ‘Carpe Diem’ in New Amsterdam

By Raveena Mangal

LOCAL and internationally-renowned designer, Donna Ramsammy James will launch her 2015 Collection at Herdmanston House on Sunday. Her intriguing collection is called “Carpe Diem”, a Latin term meaning “Seize the day!”

Sixteenth in the line of the SHAPE2000 Annual Collection, it promises to be a stunning display of elegant and striking women’s and men’s wear.

Ramsammy James has

over the years developed a distinctive trademark of fusing African, Caribbean, Indian and Latin American influences in her designs. As such, the softness of Asia, the depth of Africa and the colour of the Caribbean will mingle and play in her 2015 collection.

At her previous launch, the designer had noted that for the past 15 years, the viewing of her work was done at her residence, but she believes that it has outgrown the space and a decision was made to shift the venue.

Sixteen years later, in association with the Guyana Relief Council, she decided to make her annual collection open to the public. The funds raised will be dedicated to the council which renders assistance to victims of fires and other natural disasters.

Ramsammy James’ collections reveal her proud heritage and influences while her work has created an impact on the fashion of the Caribbean as well as such places as Italy and London.

Designer Donna Ramsammy James

By Jeune Vankeric JUST days after light rain showers in the New Amsterdam township, mosquitoes descended in their numbers resulting in cattle running wildly across the thoroughfare.

This is even as residents resorted to skin-slapping and itching, as the Public Enemy Number One, aided by their proboscis, stab into the skin of their prey, evoking an apathy which only they can.

As a result of the invasion, the streets are sparsely occupied by nightfall, as, beyond the nuisance factor, mosquitoes are carriers, or vectors, for some of humanity’s most deadly illnesses, and they are public enemy number one in the fight against global infectious disease.

Clearly then, the Health Department of Region 6 has moved to address the health issue by hosting several fogging exercises in the district.

This intervention, is the result of the swarming of the blood-sucking insects on the President Donald Ramotar, who was at the State House in New Amsterdam, on Sunday, and several telephone calls made by the citizenry to the Berbice Regional Health Authority [BRHA], resulting in an emergency media briefing.

BRHA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, reported that the mosquitoes are not carrying disease, but “the swamp mosquito is more of a nuisance.”

The plan of action involves fogging during the day and evening and although chemicals, though toxic will be used “it is not harmful to humans, but is deadly to the insects, and that is what we want to get rid of. However, residents must open their doors and windows, in order to allow the mist to enter their respective homes, as the fogging team

passes around the streets.”

According to him, “We have had calls from areas like the fisheries at Number 66, Port Mourant both Corentyne areas. We have had some calls from other areas too, but, most of our calls are located in and around the New Amsterdam, Canje and Fort Ordinance area. So we will be tackling these areas first and then we will be dealing with the other areas.”

Meanwhile, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr. Paul Ramrattan said the project will cost the administration about $500,000 weekly.

He explained the sum did not include wages and salaries for the fogging operators, however, the region was fortunate to have its own fogging machines, having bought two recently.

Additionally, the Ministry of Local Government donated a small swing fogging machine, to aid in the region’s fight against mosquito infestation.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Enthusiasm, creativity, innovation illuminate Diwali night

By Shirley Thomas FOR the Sewnarine family, owners of the “Market Place” located at Lot 97 Fifth Street, Industry, East Coast Demerara, lighting up for Diwali was exciting and involved the entire family. It is an activity they would look forward to each year, with the same degree of enthusiasm.

This year even the tiny tots joined their parents in lighting up the diyas, complemented with fairy lights creating a rich, scintillating array of colours. And out in the yard, there were interesting creations on the ground – designs made using finely broken rice, stained in a multiplicity of colours, to come up with breathtaking and intricately crafted designs called Rangolis, on which the lit diyas were displayed.

They started around 19:00 hrs, first with prayers, followed by the lighting of the diyas, then later sharing sweetmeats with friends and

family. “Lighting up for Diwali brings much joy to the home and family and as you can see, we involve even the toddlers,” the parents said.

At the home of Hindu devoutees, the Shivpersad family of Owen Street, Kitty, the family patriarch, Mr. Chandatt Shivpersad was seated elegantly at the gate, basking in the glory of his artistic creations, while his sons, with twinkles in their eyes, engaged in lighting of

the diyas. Sharing in the joy of the moment with them, were friends and neighbours who had come to celebrate Diwali – The Festival of the Triumph of Good Over Evil.

And the Singh family of Austin Street, Campbellville, being on the western half of the road, and having to contend with heavy breeze, seemed to be experiencing some difficulty keeping the diyas alight, but were determined to win the game.

B.K. International in Lamaha Gardens (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson) “After all the preparation I made over the last month or so, cleaning, getting things in place and preparing for this grand occasion, I just wouldn’t let up on it,” Mrs. Singh,the matriarch of the home,said. And for her,

“All’s well that ends well,” for she surely managed to keep her diyas alight, ensuring she was part and parcel of the activities of the day.

Meanwhile, in Kitty, another family found innovative ways of fighting against

the breeze putting out their lit diyas. By filling the bottom of paper bags with sand, then mounting the lights in sand, the bag provided a kind of shade for the light, and so was able to withstand the breeze.

Turn to page 15 for more scenes of the Diwali celebration...

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Mr. Chandatt Shivpersad seated outside his gate, deeply gratified at being able to participate in the Diwali lighting up

A Kitty family finds innovative ways of making the lighted diyas withstand the breeze, and at the same time put on a fantastic display

Mrs. Singh wages an unrelenting battle against the breeze to keep her lights burning, but eventually wins

At Diwali time, there’s fun for everyone. These youths are having fun as they play with flares on Diwali night

A home in New Haven

Home of the owners of “The Market Place” in Industry

The Sewnarine family at Fifth Street, Industry

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

From all indications…

Guyana will manage to avert blacklisting GUYANA has, from all indications, managed to avert being placed on an international blacklist by the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

This is according to the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Anil Nandlall, who told the Guyana Chronicle that credit for this feat should go to the high-level commitment of the Government, coupled with demonstrable actions taken by the country.

“Guyana, once again, has been able to avert being placed on a blacklist by the Financial Action Task Force, largely due to the high level commitment of the

--thanks to Gov’t commitment, efforts to date

Anil Nandlall government coupled with demonstrable actions taken in the country’s attempts to comply with recommendations made to address the technical deficiencies identified in the country’s AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism)

regime,” he said.

Guyana was referred to FATF last November by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), after missing a compliance deadline, as a result of which the country was blacklisted regionally.

The move was a result of Guyana’s cited failures relative to the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill, which continues to languish before the Parliamentary Special Select Committee reviewing the Bill.

ONGOING REVIEW PROCESS However, despite having averted the devastating consequences of being blacklisted, Guyana, the AG disclosed, will be subjected to an “Ongoing Process in Improving Compliance” to ensure that the country’s AML/CFT framework is up to par with international standards.

Nandlall said, “Guyana’s continuous review is to ensure that it discharges its obligations under the Action Plan, which was worked out with the AARG (Americas

Regional Review Group) and submitted as Guyana’s action plan.”

In the latter part of September, the AG led a delegation to meet with the AARG, as mandated by FATF, after the country’s referral to the international watchdog by CFATF. In a letter dated July 9, 2014, FATF officially confirmed its decision to commence a targeted review of Guyana prior to its October 2014 plenary meeting, which ends today.

FATF made it clear that the purpose of that targeted

review would be to examine the most significant deficiencies in Guyana’s AML/CFT framework that pose a risk to the international financial system.

Following the September meeting a report was prepared by the AARG and forwarded to FATF in time for its ongoing plenary meeting.

Additionally, a statement from FATF is expected to be issued today to publicly pronounce on Guyana’s fate, and also identify the actions that Guyana is required to take within what timeframe.

Remigrant rubbishes Kaieteur News’ Page One article --says Lall using paper to slander innocent people

REMIGRANT, Mr. Kamal Mangal, has come out with strong criticisms of Kaieteur News’ Page One article, published yesterday under the headline ‘Remigrant who imported Mercedes Benz SUV says…‘I don’t know I have to live in Guyana’.

He further contends that the local daily’s publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, is clearly trying to “drag innocent people into a scandal” along with him.

Lall and his wife, Mrs. Bhena Lall, were recently arraigned on four of six criminal charges, related to an alleged remigrant duty-free concession scam.

The contentious article stated that Mangal, the uncle of Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, became a remigrant almost two years ago, but said “he was not aware that he had to be living in Guyana to qualify as a remigrant.” The article also implies a wrongdoing, since Mangal used the address of the AG in his remigrant application.

“A t the time that I made the application I was staying at the home of Mohabir Anil Nandlall, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, a relative of mine, because my house a few blocks away was under construction. I don’t consider anything unusual, irregular or illegal about that,” the

Mr. Kamal Mangal pictured with the vehicle imported to Guyana under the remigrant duty-free concession programme

remigrant told the Guyana Chronicle.

importing a motor vehicle as a re-migrant from the

front page and that my relationship with the At-

‘The owner of Kaieteur News must stop using his press as a tool to settle personal scores and malign the character of people. This is not freedom of the press. It is an abuse of it’ – Remigrant, Kamal Mangal ‘The truth is the owner of the Kaieteur News has been implicated in a re-migrant duty free scandal and he has been charged along with others with several criminal offences, and now he is obviously using his newspaper to drag innocent people into a scandal along with him’ – Remigrant Kamal Mangal According to Mangal, the impression conveyed by yesterday’s article is that he is implicated in some scandal or wrongdoing by

United States – an implication he has since rejected emphatically.

He said, “The fact that this non-story made the

torney-General and the Minister of Legal Affairs (Mr. Anil Nandlall) was highlighted should clearly demonstrate to the intel-

ligent reader that there is more in the mortar than in the pestle.

“The truth is the owner of the Kaieteur News has been implicated in a re-migrant duty free scandal and he has been charged along with others with several criminal offences, and now he is obviously using his newspaper to drag innocent people into a scandal along with him.”

The remigrant added that Lall is also “obviously” trying to drag his relative, the AG, into a “scandal” as well.

“I want to make it very clear that the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs had and has absolutely nothing to do with the importation of my vehicle.

Kaieteur News’ attempt to connect him to this transaction is simply malicious and wicked,” he said.

ABUSE OF FREE PRESS Mangal added that Lall is using his newspaper and staff in a manner that abuses the principle of a free press.

He said, “The owner of Kaieteur News must stop using his press as a tool to settle personal scores and malign the character of people. This is not freedom of the press. It is an abuse of it. “…I never told the Kaieteur News reporter that I did not know that I have to be living in Guyana to be a re-migrant. I told the reporter that I lived in Guyana at the above address, but that I travel frequently to

the United States because I have business in Maryland.

I saw in the article that it is mentioned that I own properties in Florida and my family lives in Florida.

I never said these things to the reporter. They must be a figment of the reporter’s imagination.”

Mangal migrated to the USA 30 years ago. From 2002 to 2011, I began travelling regularly to Guyana acquiring properties and engaging in business. In 2012 he re-migrated to Guyana and was granted a duty free concession to import a motor vehicle, as is allowed by the remigrant scheme.

“There was nothing unusual, irregular or illegal about my application.

Significantly, I have complied with every condition imposed by the GRA, including making the vehicle available to them at stipulated intervals,” he said.

Mangal currently resides at Sub-lot “A”, Plot H Delhi Street, Prashad Nagar, where his vehicle is always parked when not being driven.

The remigrant also owns several properties in Guyana, including: Sublot “A”, Plot H Delhi Street, Prashad Nagar; Sublot “B”, Plot H Delhi Street, Prashad Nagar; Sublot 5B part of letter “B” New Road, Vreeden-Hoop, West Coast Demerara; and Parcel 55, South Yakusari, Black Bush Polder.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Festival of Lights: How the world celebrated Diwali 2014

By Mangala Dilip THE festival of lights, Diwali, is not only brightening up India, but almost the entire world where the Indian diaspora marked their presence across the globe.

These include the UK, the US, Russia, Australia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Guyana, Fiji, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and South Africa, where the Festival of Lights is celebrated with fervour.

Being the second-largest ethnic minority in Britain, all Indian festivals are celebrated in a grand manner there, but come Diwali, they have the largest fête over any other place outside India. In fact, Diwali 2014 celebrations in Leicester attracted over 35,000 people, according to the BBC. After Belgrave Road was lit up with 6,000 lamps on Sunday, there was a firework and laser show at Cossington Recreation Ground, which also served yesterday as the venue for the festivities.

“People flock to Leicester from all parts of the UK and from overseas... That is how well-known and renowned Leicester’s Diwali light celebrations are; and it is just the beginning of the

celebrations,” said Jashvant Chauhan, vice-president of Leicester’s largest Hindu temple Shree Sanatan Mandir.

Even Twitter users like Mel D commented, “Happy Diwali! One of these days I will go to Leicester and properly enjoy the celebrations (biggest outside of India)” Barack Obama, who was the first US president to celebrate the Festival of Lights in 2009, has sent Diwali wishes to everyone this year too. “I want to wish a Happy Diwali to all those who are celebrating the Festival of Lights here in the United States and around the world,” he said.

The Obama administration was also slated to hold the Annual Diwali Celebration yesterday at 6pm, and hosted by Secretary of State, John Kerry, according to the US Department of State.

Diwali is one of the most popular Indian festivals in Moscow, with Lakshmi Puja and lighting Diyas. However, they do not light diyas outside their flats, or indulge in bursting fire-crackers, following the local security rules.

Diwali not only brings together the Indians in Russia, but also the people of other cultural and religious

US First Lady, Mrs Michelle Obama, celebrating Diwali at the White House last year backgrounds. The celebrations in the Gubkin Cultural Centre on Saturday saw around 1,000 guests, which included Russians and even Pakistanis, according to reports from Russia and India.

Australia has a population of over 2,00,000-strong in its South Asian community, and in recognition of this, the Sydney Opera House was lit up in a vibrant orange

colour to celebrate Diwali, New Kerala reported.

“People from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka as well as South East Asia have brought with them the rich traditions of Deepavali and we appreciate the positive contributions they’ve made to our multi-cultural society,” the minister for citizenship and communities, Victor Domi-

nello said.

While most long-term residents are celebrating Diwali 2014 with enthusiasm, those celebrating Diwali outside India for the first time aren’t too happy about it.

Aay Kay posted: “First Diwali outside India. Eerily sterile.”

Preethy Kanthan said, “First Diwali Out-

side Home, Outside India Mixed feelings” Angad Singh Gumber tweeted, “Eagerly awaiting to play cards on Diwali.

This is my first Diwali outside India. Will miss my family a lot.”

A bored RakuTheDakku tweeted, “Celebrating Diwali outside India is not the same at all... Its so boring”

Ebola outbreak: NY doctor tests positive A NEW York doctor who recently returned from Ebola-hit Guinea in West Africa has tested positive for the disease.

Dr Craig Spencer, who treated Ebola patients while working for the charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), came down with a fever on Thursday, days after his return, officials say.

He is the first Ebola case diagnosed in New York, and the fourth in the US. More than 4,800 people have died of Ebola - mainly in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone - since March.

Dr Spencer, 33, left Guinea on 14 October, and returned to New York City on 17 October via Europe. On Tuesday, he began to feel tired and developed a fever

and diarrhoea on Thursday.

He immediately contacted medical services and was taken to the city’s Bellevue Hospital, where he is being kept in isolation.

Four contacts New York officials said Dr Spencer had travelled on the subway and gone out jogging before he started feeling unwell.

But at a news conference late on Thursday, they sought to ease fears of an outbreak in the densely populated city of 8.4 million people, saying officials had prepared for weeks for an Ebola case.

“There is no reason for New Yorkers to be alarmed,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said.

“Ebola is an extremely hard disease to contract. New Yorkers who have not been exposed to an infected per-

NYPD officers are now deployed near Dr Spencer’s apartment son’s bodily fluids are not at risk.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo said, “We can’t say that this is an unexpected circumstance.”

Ebola patients are only infectious if they have symptoms, and the disease is only

transmittable through bodily fluids, experts say.

Mr Cuomo said officials had identified four people with whom Dr Spencer had contact during the period in which he was potentially infectious.

His fiancee and two

friends have been placed into quarantine, said Dr Mary Bassett, New York’s health commissioner.

Vaccine research He is the fourth person to be diagnosed with the disease in the US. The first caught Ebola in his native Liberia and travelled to Dallas, Texas, before his symptoms set in. He died on 8 October.

Two nurses who treated him in Dallas subsequently came down with the disease and are recovering in hospital.

Meanwhile, on Thursday the West African country of Mali confirmed its first Ebola case - a two-year-old girl recently returned from Guinea.

The girl’s mother died in Guinea a few weeks ago and the child was then

brought by relatives to Mali, Reuters news agency quotes a health ministry official as saying.

Mali is now the sixth West African country to be affected by the latest Ebola outbreak - however Senegal and Nigeria have since been declared virus-free by the WHO. Separately, the World Health Organization (WHO) has already identified at least two experimental vaccines which it believes could be promising.

At a meeting in Geneva, the UN health body said it wanted tests of the vaccines to be completed by the end of December.

The WHO says 443 health workers have contracted Ebola, of whom 244 have died. (BBC News)

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Moleson Creek Bridge completed

The Moleson Creek Bridge while it was under construction

THE 10-month project to reconstruct the Moleson Creek Bridge is completed, and the 105-foot-long concrete structure was opened to traffic last weekend.

According to the Ministry of Public Works, construction of the G$60M project began in January, and included the replacement of structural steel and the driving surface, as well as widened support piers.

The developmental project, the Ministry said in a release, amplified the eastbound and westbound bridge by 10 feet, allowing for wider shoulders for easier traffic flow.

The bridge is approximately two miles

from the Moleson Creek Stelling, a heavily-trafficked area where a ferry plies the Guyana/Suriname route.

B & J Civil Works was the contracting company for the bridge project, while Sherod Parkinson, a Public Works Ministry Engineer oversaw the project.

The Ministry, through its Bridges Programme, has built several major bridges, including ones at Ogle, Eastern Highway (Sophia), and Hampton Court over the past 16 months.

The G$11M Bounty Hall Bridge on the Essequibo Coast is expected to be completed in another six weeks. N. Sukhi Contracting Services is executing that project.

The completed Moleson Creek Bridge

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

Winners, sponsors, and RNCF members

Winners of RNCF annual fundraising raffle pick up prizes THE Radio’s Needy Children’s Fund (RNCF) on Saturday September 27 held the drawing of its annual Fund Raising Raffle outside the COURTS Guyana Main Street office.

The winners of the 2014 raffle are as follows: GRAND PRIZES 1st Prize Winner: Theresa Foo: 1-ct Diamond Bracelet, compliments of Kings Jewellery World.

2nd Prize Winner: Yougetta Rahiman: A return trip to Miami, compliments of Suriname Airways.

3rd Prize Winner: William Sanasee: A return trip to Jamaica, compliments of Fly Jamaica.

4th Prize Winner: Albert Smith: A day trip to Arrow Point Resort, compliments of Roraima Airways.

CONSOLATION PRIZES 1st Prize Winner: Neetu Shaw: One 19-piece Blender Set (Compliments of Giftland OfficeMax).

2nd Prize Winner: Priya Bisessar: One Lenovo 7” Tablet (Compliments of Starr Computers).

3rd Prize Winner: Michelle Lall: One Microwave Oven (Compliments of Courts Guyana).

4th Prize Winner: Colin West: One Z10 Blackberry Cell-phone (Compliments of GT&T).

The prize giving ceremony was held in the studios of the National Communications Network Inc, home of RNCF. Absent from the ceremony were Theresa Foo, Neetu Sawh, Michelle Lall and Colin West.

RNCF would like to take this opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude to Giftland OfficeMax, Courts Guyana Inc., Starr Computers Inc, Roraima Airways, Fly Jamaica, GT&T, Surinam Airways and King’s Jewellery World for their continued support and sponsorship of RNCF-related activities.

They would also like to express gratitude to the general public, which, every year, supports their events, be it the raffle, the annual toy drive, or the Fundraising Dinner.

“We would like to assure you that you contributions over the years have put a smile on the faces of thousands of less fortunate children across the length and breadth of Guyana,” the organisation said in a release, adding: “We encourage you and other corporate entities to partner with us as we continue our efforts to spread joy among our little ones.”

MASSIVE TURNO

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

- As Gov’t rolls out countrywide ‘Because We C

GOVERNMENT, in its much lauded countrywide roll-out of the ‘Because We Care’ education grant initiative yesterday launched the highly anticipated programme in Region Nine (Upper Essequibo/Upper Takutu), moreso in the immediate communities in and around the bustling Guyana/Brazil border township of Lethem.

Hundreds of residents packed the Benab in St. Ignatius, near Lethem, where the programme was launched by President Donald Ramotar and a high level government team that comprises Education Minister Priya Manickchand and Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett.

“It is indeed a happy occasion for me to be here to share these moments with you as we try to help our children and this initiative should be seen as another step in building our country and our country’s future,” President Ramotar told the large gathering.

Like he did at the launch of the ‘Because We Care’ initiative in the mining town of Bartica on

An aerial shot of the bustling Lethem township which has seen significant development in its infrastructure over the last several years. (Adrian Narine photos)

Education Minister Priya Manickchand gave stirring remarks at yesterday’s launch of the ‘Because We Care’ initiative in Region Nine. She remains adamant that Guyana’s positive growth allows for investment in the people.

October 11, the President reiterated that the current administration’s investment in the Guyanese people, via social sector initiatives, is a manifestation of the long-standing principle of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) – development with a human face.

The president was emphatic in stressing that education is an investment in Guyana’s future, since it represents the foundation on which progress is advanced.

According to Minister Manickchand, more than $12M was distributed during yesterday’s event in St. Ignatius, with more than $500M distributed, so far, during the ongoing countrywide roll-out of the programme. Below are photos of yesterday’s event captured by Chronicle’s Senior Photographer, Adrian Narine. (Please see tomorrow’s edition for a comprehensive article)

The Benab in St. Ignatius was the venue of yesterday’s launch of Government’s ‘Because We Care’ initiative in Region Nine

OUT IN LETHEM

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Care’ education cash grant initiative in Region 9

Grade Six students from Arapaima Primary School in Lethem, beautifully decked out in their uniforms, were at the airstrip to greet President Ramotar and his team. They sang a song ‘The Children of Guyana’ for the President and Ministers Priya Manickchand and Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett. When asked which school they would like to attend after they would have written the SSEE exams next year, their answer was almost chorus-like: “Queen’s College.”

President Donald Ramotar addressing the large gathering at yesterday’s historic event

Region Nine students awaiting the arrival of His Excellency the President and his team at yesterday’s event in St. Ignatius

Pupils of the Arapaima Nursery School about to recite ‘We are the flowers of humanity’ on stage at yesterday’s event.

Eligible residents of Region Nine signing to collect their $10,000 per child education cash grant yesterday

Students from St. Ignatius Secondary School playing the ‘steel pans’

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Lindener survives gunshots during East Bank robbery

THE police yesterday reported that 30-year-old Sancarlos Sukhu, 30, of Kara Kara, Linden was on

Wednesday night shot in the right ankle and shoulder on the Eccles Public Road, East Bank Demer-

ara.

The incident reportedly occurred around 18:30hrs when the vehicle in which

Sukhu was travelling stopped at the traffic light.

According to the police, the man was in a car driven

by Hai San Wong, also of Kara Kara, Linden, when a man approached them at the traffic light with a firearm,

held them up and demanded cash.

A sum of money was handed over, but the robber demanded more; and when that was not forthcoming, he opened fire, hitting Sukhu, after which he escaped. The injured man was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted.

Up to late yesterday the police were looking to come up with clues and eyewitnesses who may be able to lead them to the suspects.

Indian national fatally stabbed in the neck

AN Indian national, who has been working at the Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital as a nurse for some time now, was on Wednesday night stabbed in the neck by persons whom the police are still to identify.

James Peter, 31, was rushed to the hospital where he has been providing medical services during his stint in Guyana, but died while receiving treatment.

A police press release related that the man, who resides on Camp Street here in the city, was stabbed while on the seawall on Wednesday night; he died early yesterday morning.

The Guyana Chronicle was able to confirm that the man has no biological relatives in this country and was providing medical services to the Balwant Singh Hospital along with several other nationals from his native land.

The man is said to have a girlfriend who works at another private medical institution. Yesterday, this publication was informed that the police were looking to have the Indian High Commission here in Guyana briefed about the incident, which is reportedly also engaging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Meanwhile, the police are seeking to have persons come forward with information surrounding the incident and give statements and possibly identify the person(s) responsible for inflicting the fatal wound on the non-national.

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

PM lauds UN as symbolising commitment to world peace,security - at 69th anniversary celebration

By Shirley Thomas PRIME Minister Mr Samuel Hinds has lauded the United Nations (UN) as an organisation which symbolises the commitment of nations to world peace and security and to the development of the world’s peoples, adding that the world is a better place because of the United Nations.

The prime minister made these remarks on Tuesday evening at a reception hosted by UN Resident Co-ordinator, Ms. Khadija Musa and the UN family in Guyana to celebrate the UN’s 69th anniversary and host the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Champions Awards Ceremony. The venue was the Georgetown Club on Camp Street.

Mr. Hinds said that there is cause to be justly proud of the accomplishments of the UN through the years, as we stand at the threshold of the 70th year since its founding.

The United Nations, he acknowledged, has served to not only keep generations from the scourge of war, but more importantly, promoted and pursued the development of humankind.

He said that the government of Guyana is supportive of a United Nations that promotes international peace, security and a development agenda that benefits all.

In this regard, he added, Guyana is committed to making the UN a democratic, dynamic body that can respond effectively to the needs of its member states.

He however noted that, while we applaud the advances made, we must note that the world is yet to be freed from the many marathons that threaten the well-being of mankind: conflicts, injustice within and among nations, inequity and certain diseases prevail, affecting human development and stymieing the battle against poverty, especially within developing countries.

And commenting on the MDGs, he admitted that those goals have not been universally achieved, and cautioned that more still needs to be done. “And even as we analyze the reasons,” he said, “we are looking towards other mechanisms beyond 2015, through the articulation of a comprehensive post -2015 development agenda.”

He touched on the significant falling short of support from developed countries, as envisioned

by MDG 8, thereby affecting the overall achievement of the MDGs, and said that as we collectively pursue a development agenda ,we must be cognizant of the fact that the level of commitment by all is imperative for progress.

The prime minister however, reported that Guyana has made significant strides in the achievement of the MDGs at the national level with the support of key United Nations agencies.

These agencies, including the UNDP, the UNFPA, UNICEF, UNESCO, FAO, PAHO/WHO, have, over the decades, proved critical for national development efforts and continued to render invaluable assistance and support to Guyana in this regard.

He cautioned, that the prevailing situation in the world requires greater concentration of policies by all states to effectively address their common problems.

He gave as an example, the raging Ebola virus in West Africa with a potential to eradicate the progress made in past decades with respect to social and economic gains of the African continent and farther afield.

“We therefore call on the international community to effectively and responsibly work towards containing the spread of the Ebola virus,” the prime minister declared.

He also cited the effects of climate change as another threat to the development of peace and security, and

Resident UN Coordinator, Ms Khadija Musa and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds toast to the strong partnerships existing between the UN agencies and programmes and the Government of Guyana

which can wreak havoc in the further development of mankind.

However, Guyana has already become known in these parts for adaptation and mitigation by adopting and instituting its Low Carbon Development Strategy, he said.

In the face of ensuing challenges, Mr. Hinds conceded that there is need for a renewed mindset by the international community as we pursue better sustainable management of the world’s biodiversity.

The prime minister expressed gratitude to the resident coordinator and all the UN agencies for their support to Guyana.

Turn to page 24

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

PM lauds UN as symbolising...

From page 23

A section of the gathering at the UN’s 69th Anniversary Reception and MDG Awards presentation (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson) Meanwhile, UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Khadija Musa, eminently proud of the United Nations now turned 69, said that the UN has been very special throughout the years. Alluding to the mandate of the global body, she said it was created for several reasons, namely: keeping generations from war; protecting Human Rights; establishing conditions for genders; promotion of social progress and better understanding of life for all.

Affirming that these fundamental objectives remain as critical today as they were 69 years ago, Ms. Musa ever mindful of the presence of diseases such as Ebola and developments such as; ISIS, Iraq, poverty (which continues to a certain extent); discrimination and climate change, affirmed, “The United Nations is needed more than ever at this time of multiple crises. These are giving a heavy toll to the mandate that the UN was created for.”

She admitted that the UN has been the subject of much debate, stating. “We have received equal doses of praises and criticism,” but expressed confidence that “As the world’s only true, universal institution, the UN offers the best, if not the only forum to galvanize global action to meet the challenges ahead.”

To this end, she quoted former UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold as saying, “The UN was not created to take humanity to heaven, but save it from hell,” and current UN Secretary General, Ban Ki moon, as saying that : “The global problems we face today can never be resolved by one country acting alone.”

From complete prevention and humanitarian assistance to peace -keeping and peace- building, the UN works on a proud range of

fundamental issues, Musa said.

She said, here in Guyana, the United Nations has been working since 1960, to support the government and people of Guyana to improve nutrition security; promote dialogue and improve governance; improve education planning at all levels; support health services that provide quality guidance and strategic support; promote sexual and productive health strategy and fight HIV/AIDS. Meanwhile, last year during the UN celebration, the organisation launched the MDG Championship, and this year has awarded eight persons/organisations for satisfactorily meeting the requirements.

The Millennium Development Goals, she said, form a blue print agreed to by all the world’s countries and all the world’s leading development institutions.

“The MDG has galvanised unprecedented efforts to meet the needs of the world’s poorest, and we at the United Nations will continue to work with governments, civil society and other partners to build on the momentum generated by the MDGs, in order for us to all implement the post -2015 development agenda,” Ms. Musa said.

She congratulated Guyana for achieving all the MDG targets related to poverty eradication and for being on track on most of the other goals and told of the UN’s continued support for Guyana’s development efforts.

In conclusion, she toasted with Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, to the strong partnership which exists between the United Nations Agency’s Fund and Programmes and the Government of Guyana.”

Others among the distinguished gathering were: Ministers of Government; Members of Parliament; Heads of UN Agencies in Guyana; Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Winners of the MDG Awards and others.

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY OCTOBER 24, 2014

GAPSO conducts basic first aid course for 26 security officers

Aries One quick phone call to a friend may turn into a long discussion about the meaning of life. Be conscious of the fact that there’s a great deal of momentum building in your mind now. Once the dam breaks, you may soon have a giant flood on your hands. Be careful about releasing all this energy at once, even though you may not seem to have a choice.

Taurus It could be that you feel a bit of pressure today to start or create something that you aren’t quite ready for. There is hesitation on your part that indicates you should take it slowly and learn more of the facts before you jump into the fray.

Position yourself in such a way that you take control of the situation rather than become a victim of it.

Gemini Move forward with your plan of attack today. There’s an anxious rumble within you that’s urging you to get going with a current plan. You have all the facts you need, so don’t hesitate any longer. The power of the word is with you. You will be smooth, collected, and confident even in the most nerve-wracking situations.

Words will flow off your tongue with ease.

Cancer Add spark to your life today. It could be that things are getting stale and boring.

If so, consider the possibility that you simply aren’t challenging yourself enough.

Remember that you’re responsible for lighting your own fire. You have the perfect opportunity to get something started today, so go for it. Feel free to get other people to help.

Participants in the Basic First Aid Course conducted by GAPSO Wednesday THE Guyana Association of Private Security Organisations (GAPSO) conducted a one-day Basic First Aid course for security officers so they can respond appropriately to basic medical emergencies.

The training course was hosted at the John Fernandes Boardroom, Georgetown.

Tw e n t y - s i x o ff i c e r s participated in the training course that represented GAPSO members, namely, Banks DIH, Bank of Guyana, Security Alliance, Kalibur Security, Federal Management Systems, John Fernandes Ltd, Integrated Security Services, Sentinel Security, Secure Security and Management Services, MMC Security Force and Guyoil.

The course was delivered by Denzil Hernandez, who is a professional nurse at the Davis Memorial Hospital, and holds an Associate Degree in Occupational Health and Safety.

Speaking about the initiative, Public Relations Officer, Ghalee Khan said that it was conducted as a comprehensive step to promote increased standards and professionalism of private security.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES He added that security officers are the first on the scene of most medical emergencies and should be able to respond effectively, which may save the lives of the people they are protecting.

Khan said the course was also a forum to enable participants to acquire the

knowledge, skills and confidence to give immediate care to a suddenly injured person until more advanced medical personnel arrive.

Yesterday’s training consisted of a combination of instructions using visual resources and slides and demonstrations and practical hands-on activities.

Participants were given the opportunity to practise techniques related to first

aid, such as how to put a victim in the recovery position, how to administer CPR, how to deal with choking and how to apply bandages.

GAPSO has long worked to increase the standards and professionalism in the private security industry. Private security officers play a critical and ever-increasing role in keeping their community safe, Khan stated.

Leo People are apt to try to hit you square on the head with their ideas and thoughts today, so be ready for the onslaught of information that may come your way.

There’s a distinct advantage to listening to the whole spiel before you react with your own facts and emotions. The problem is that you’re going to be tempted to argue instead of calmly resolve the matter.

Virgo Anchor yourself in practical matters before you try to prove your point to others.

There’s a great deal of primal energy rising within you today and searching for some sort of outlet. Be aware of overextending yourself when it comes to issues of the mind. You may be so anxious to prove your point that you end up losing sight of the reality of the situation.

Libra Don’t take no for an answer today. Know what you believe in and stick with it.

There’s a distinct advantage to holding true to your inner nature. Don’t let others throw you off course with their views on how things should be done. Be confident and don’t worry about taking things over the top. There’s no such thing as excess today. “The more the merrier” should be your motto.

Scorpio Don’t take no for an answer today. Know what you believe in and stick with it.

There’s a distinct advantage to holding true to your inner nature. Don’t let others throw you off course with their views on how things should be done. Be confident and don’t worry about taking things over the top. There’s no such thing as excess today. “The more the merrier” should be your motto.

Sagittarius Be aggressive and forceful when it comes to exerting your will. Let others know that you won’t be a pushover. Your opinions are extremely important, and they need to be heard by the people who matter the most. Have faith that whatever you say has the power to come true, especially when you enlist the help of those around you. Opportunity lies in joining hands with others.

Capricorn Today may be one of those days in which you come to a four-way stop and no one knows whose turn it is. Don’t sit and wait for everyone else to go first. If you know it’s your turn, be bold and make your move. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to signal others that you’re going ahead. People might not be used to you taking such an aggressive role.

Aquarius People would be foolish to challenge your thinking now. The power behind your words is volatile, and you may find yourself going to extremes in order to get your point across. Be careful about making promises you can’t fulfill. It could be that you’re so adamant about your point of view that you make up hyperbolic situations just to get your ideas across.

Pisces Your old ways of thinking have carried you quite far, but you may now find that it’s time to seek a new platform for your ideas. Look for more adventurous ways to express yourself. Break out of the old mould and try something new. Once you start in a brand new direction, there will be a great deal of support encouraging you to continue along that way.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Telephone Contact # 616 0301 or 227 5216 Well here we are again serving up four rich pages of ‘intoxicating entertainment’ to ignite and appease your reading desires. “ Ha ha ha ha... One may err terribly and get put out.... Too bad fuh he” And one ‘buxom mama’ got a pleasant surprise from her kind and considerate boss.

Party hotspots, hot babes, hunky male morsels, and the ‘supacaliflagilistic stuff’ that make the Bombshell your ‘must-read supplement.

Do enjoy and join us again next Friday as we take you another notch higher in local entertainment. See ya folks...

J

You couldn’t boss ask for a better

UST recently, our Editor-in-Chief displayed his affectionate side yet again on Tuesday when he served up for Linda Rutherford, one of our editors, a scrumptious marble cake for her birthday.

Well hear nah, al’yuh don’t ask me how much

years she deh, because when I suggested she might be forty, de hottie-hottie momma protested loudly, saying it was closer to sixteen. But eh-eh! Like dis is ah big-breed sixteen-yearold!

And there she was,indeed, blushing and gigglinglike a

teenager, and going all red in the cheeks when little Asif demanded loudly that he should be the one to feed our delightful ‘big momma’ chunks of the chocolate-filled treat.

Let the photos tell of the jolly-good time staffers had on this festive occasion.

You shouldn’t do that...

A night of bliss sees East Coast ‘shottas’ getting a royal ‘put out’

WELL, an East Coast ‘shottas’, as he calls himself,got a rude awakening recently when he arrived at his girlfriend’s house after a night of sensual rollicking with a ‘hottie’ he raked in at a Buxton party.

Well, this bhai is a well known minibus conductor on the East Coast Bus Park, and everyone around there knows that his girlfriend is faithful, and was just allowing him to ‘sow his royal oats’ with the ladies.

For years, this has been the trend, and the girl would just sit and cry her eyes out as he frolicked and flirted with the ladies right under her nose.

Well, if yuh see how dis bhai grinding pon dis gyal he hook up wid at the Buxton party, yuh would ah lef wid yuh mouth open.

And this woman was just a slacker!!!

There she was, all dressed up, with portions of her ‘rear-end’ exposed and allowing the man to be tossing her into the air like a rag doll, and putting her to lie on the ground with legs open wide, as he ran from a short distance and jumped on her.

Then he would execute some of the most vulgar pelvic movements ever

seen, as he allowed everyone to see what he had in store for the woman later.

He was drinking the alcohol like crazy, with money that was supposed to purchase ration for his girlfriend, and he certainly didn’t seem to care.

Now, word of his raucous behaviour got to his girlfriend of three years, and a nosy neighbour urged the poor girl to ‘come see fuh yuhself’.

Well, the girlfriend finally decided to visit the scene, and she jaw drop open when she saw what the ‘love-ofher-life’ was doing with the female on the ground.

Yes, she stood there and wept bitterly for a good 20 minutes until he noticed her standing there. And, ignoring her totally, he continued his frenzied gyrations. But as she wept, there was a certain steely expression taking over her face, even as her body became rigid with anger.

There is certain saying that says there’s ‘a thin line between love and hate’, and this dude certainly did not know that when a woman’s fed up, her fury broils like the very depths of hell.

The lady turned on her heels, wiped away her tears, and left the ball-field

with her head held high. Well, when this young man finally had his fill of his ‘hottie’ in an abandoned house nearby, he trudged to his girlfriend’s house, smirking at the thought of his new conquest.

Out yuh go...

Yuh see the minute he arrived, if yuh see how he bags and other items came flying through the air.

The girlfriend was raging like Sheena, Queen of the Jungle, and the young man had to be running ‘helter skelter’ to avoid being hit by the items being thrown at him.

But the biggest joke of all came when she began to throw out the underwear. This man had some old ‘bucktas’ that look like dem been round since Yasin Store days. Most of them had the colour of charcoal, and there were quite a few with the crutch area missing. Some had gaping holes in the ‘bamsee’ area, and the girlfriend hung two of these high on the fence for all to see.

There he was,running every which way to gather up the discoloured undergarments, shouting at the top of his

It good fuh yuh; you should ah know that a woman is to be cherished, and not treated like dirt voice, “Gyal, is wha really yuh doing!”

Well, he certainly was not prepared for the bucket of dirty soap water that drenched him seconds later. And the frenzied girlfriend turned on her heels, exclaiming, “Good riddance to bad rubbish!”

The last I saw of the ‘village shottas’, he was sitting on the road, weeping bitterly, now that he realised his days with the young woman were over. Serves him right!!!

Everyday bucket ah guh ah well, one day de battam does lef right deh.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Teaspoon and Johnny Braff to explode at

Magic Rose Garden ‘Jazz/Oldies Fantasia’ Many have been longing for the return of Jazz to the local shores, and some have even raved that we are very lacking where Jazz talent is concerned.

“Well leh me hush alyuh mouth fuh alyuh” My dear folks have you forgotten the saying, “Seek and thou shall find”.

Well that’s exactly what ‘Promoter Magic’ did just recently. He tumbled the ‘nooks and crannies’ of Guyana for Jazz talent he knew was hidden somewhere, and bumped into one of Guyana’s legendary Jazz sensation, Wayne Proctor.

Hence the folks at the Magic Rose Garden Bar (Regent Street, Georgetown) starting this Sunday, October 26, 2014, will stage their weekly ‘Jazz/Oldies Fantasia’.

Come on folks you should not miss this opportunity to be whisked away on bubbles of scintillating romance, or be engulfed in frothy puffs of heady sensuality as some of Guyana’s most talented artistes of old take you back in time.

This Sunday the legendary ‘Johnny Braff’ (Madison Square Garden performer) will take to the stage live, alongside the renowned ‘Tea Spoon One Man Band’. Performing live also will be songbird, ‘Debbie I’ and our own Alex Wayne, amongst others.

Persons loving a good ‘after work lime’ can surely pop in since things will start heating up at the venue from around 17:00 hrs (5 p:m) Meanwhile, patrons can enjoy succulent cutters from the MAGIC Catering Service which is housed at the same venue. Folks are urged to gather on Thursday nights for the best in karaoke with DJ Kenny.

Soon to come is the ‘Magic Rose Get Wet Fete’, and fans are urged to call phone numbers 616 0301, or 628 8476 for more information or reservations.

Magic Rose Garden is ready for you with the best in Creole cuisine.

Even the Brazilians are enthralled with the ambience at this cozy hideout.

Songbird, ‘Debbie I’ enjoys a ‘lil tupps’ at Magic Rose Garden.

Joke of the Day!

A woman has twins, and gives them up f o r adoption. One of them goes to a family in Egypt and is named 'Amal.' The other goes to a family in Spain, they name him Juan'. Years later, Juan sends a picture of himself to his mum. Upon receiving the picture, she tells her husband that she wished she also had a picture of Amal. Her husband responds, ''But they are twins. If you've seen Juan, you've seen Amal.''

Make sure you are there this and every Sunday to soak up the magic created by veteran singer, Johnny Braff and Jazz Sensation, Wayne Procter.

28

Westside Auto e l c i h e V d n a o Exp 3 f f O d n u o S

The Westside Auto Expo and Vehicle Sound Off now in its third year, continues to grow commercially and is racing towards becoming the number one automobile based event in Guyana.

Over twenty teams have so far been registered for the biggest Car and Bike Show on the Westside which will be held on Saturday, November 01, 2014, at the Parika Centre Ground.

This edition will see two of Guyana’s most powerful sound

systems, Stereo Sonic and Big Life blasting off with vehicles showcasing from ‘The Avengers’, Team Wrecker, 18 Sounds, Raj Audio, Xclusive Sounds, Massive, Amrol and Sons, and Star Cars.

Teams from Massive, Rich Gang, Star Cars, Superman, Big Kiss, First Class, Amrol & Sons, A. Ally & Sons, Batman, Hunter, Xclusive, Modern Optical and others will be looking to capture as many trophies as possible and bragging rights up for grabs in

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

numerous categories.

Supporters of the various teams and vehicle enthusiasts are being promised a delightful event as some of the top vehicles in Guyana will be on display and in fierce competition for the judges’ approval.

Tickets for and vehicle passes “The Westside Auto Expo and Vehicle Sound Off” are set at $1,000, while participants are required to pay an entrance fee of $5,000 per vehicle.

Halloween Corner…

We dare you to confront ‘Hallo Scream’ will rent ‘Arabian Thrills’ at The creeps…The chills….The jitters!!!

Club Altitude apart

In can almost feel icy fingers crawl up my spine. My heart is stuck in my throat, and my mouth is parched with ‘inky fear’.

Eerie howls filled the air as mocking ghostly laughter echoes in the distance.

Ghoulish creatures dart across the night sky with grotesque looking faces, snarling as their fangs drip scarlet blood. This will be the scenario at Club Altitude Cocktail Bar and Lounge (Lot 3, Sandy Babb Street, Kitty) when folks there host the chilling, ‘Hallo Scream’ party event on Friday, October 31, 2014.

Come enjoy creepy cocktails, hair raising treats and fantastic prizes for best costumes.

Wanna discover your sinister side? Then make sure you are there to indulge.

Gravity Lounge If you are looking to take that scary plunge and infuse your ‘Halloween Frights’ with intense glitz and glamour…. Here is your chance to do so.

Unleash your creative costume fetishes and be whisked away on a luxurious ‘Arabian Train’ when Gravity Lounge brings to the forum, ‘Thriller Arabian Nights’, the sexiest Halloween party ever.

Splurge on your fantasies and do what you enjoy most. You see folks just

about any costume will be allowed. You couldn’t ask for a better treat than that.

This whopping event is slated for Saturday, October 25, 2014 and advanced tickets are being sold for $3000. General tickets have been priced at $4000, with VIP’s at $8000.

Tickets can be obtained at That Look Boutique, Pulse Office, Gravity Lounge, Movie Town DVD Club, and Glamour (VIP only)

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KES

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

to showcase at Miss Guyana Universe 2014

T

here is a certain delightful buzz that surrounds this year’s Miss Guyana Universe Pageant, and that is in the fact that promoters are hyping things a bit by including an international act in the proceedings.

Come Sunday, October 26, 2014, the Pegasus Hotel Poolside will be alive with activity as nine beautiful lasses battle for the coveted crown and title. The climax of the event however surrounds a spectacular showcase by international acts ‘KES’ (the band) coming out of Trinidad.

Kes (commonly known as Kes the Band or KTB) is a soca band formed in Trinidad in 2005. The group's musical style primarily consists of soca, influenced by calypso, dancehall

and reggae, with elements from other genres such as rock and dance music. It is sometimes described as Island Pop or Caribbean Pop. The band consists of founding members Kees Dieffenthaller (lead vocals), Hans Dieffenthaller (drums), Jon Dieffenthaller (guitar) and Riad Boochoon (bass guitar). Kees, Hans and Jon are brothers.

Noted for high energy live performances and the soulful voice of lead singer (Kees), KES has captured the hearts of many. It has become one of the most popular and sought after bands in Trinidad and Tobago, throughout the Caribbean, US and Canada.

That aside, the Classique Dance Company would be gracing the stage with their riveting choreography, even as other popular

dance groups add more glitz to the platter. Fire-eaters have been included to create an electric atmosphere, so there is definitely no reason for you to miss this entertainment masterpiece.

Those in fierce battle for the Miss Guyana 2014 crown are reigning Miss Jamzone International, Soyini Fraser; former Miss Guyana Universe contestant, Nikita Barker; US-based Guyanese, Jyoti Hardat; Alicia Kirton; Sonia Cummings; Cardella Hamilton; Rochelle Cheddie; Lakota Mc Phoy and Shonette Cain.

The winner will not only win US$10,000, but will also add to her belt of achievements the opportunity to represent Guyana in the international pageant slated for later in the year.

Miss Bootilicious 2014 slated for Magzic Rose Garden I AM quite sure you guys would remember all the excitement, and, of course, the controversy stirred up last year when Sukerpunch Promotions hosted the third leg of the provocative‘Miss Bootilicious Reloaded Lingerie Pageant’ for the very curvy women.

Patrons flocked the venues from far and wide to soak up the scandalous routines and very provocative presentations, as very sexy and creative curvy contestants demonstrated on stage who was best at entertaining their mates, in suggestive (but not vulgar) ways; and who were

more gifted in implementing strategies to keep them from the clutches of wanton vultures.

The ladies last year took to the stage in some of the most sheer and revealing lingerie, and, in most cases, ** s m o t h e re d t h e i r m a l e

counterparts with the smouldering intensity of their showcases.

Patrons saw an alluring flurry of sexy school teachers transforming into raging sirens, nurses by day and erotic dancers by night, not to mention coy and seemingly harmless librarians, and cooks transforming into some of the mostcaptivating divas of the night.

The choreography was electric and the air was alit with sensual chemistry.

Now folks have been clamouring for a repeat and they are indeed so lucky.

Promoters have already begun preparation for Miss

Bootilicious Reloaded 2014 and come November 29, 2014 the pageant will feature eight ‘boombastic contestants’, and their equally mesmerizing male models. This year’s pageant will be hosted at the Magzic Rose Garden Bar, Regent Street, Georgetown (building after Lucky Dollar Store) To date promoters are still soliciting the three final ladies to make the line up and interested females are urged to call phone numbers 616 0301 or 628 8476 to be shortlisted in the line-up. Divas of practically any race are most welcome to apply.

The eventual winner with the most scorching choreography win cart off a whopping cash prize, bragging rights a crown and trophy

while the second place winner will take home cash and a trophy. The third place contestant will be awarded cash, a trophy and a pampering package from a popular city salon.

Participants will be competing in three segments, being the ‘Mingling’, Wet Pulse’ and the ‘Ultimate Bootilicious Showdown’.

Promoters wish to remind that this pageant is more associated with the curvy ladies who are ready to affirm that one can be ‘big yet bold and sexy’.

Meanwhile we showcase some of the ‘electric ladies’ from the very first Miss Bootilicious Lingerie Pageant.

Some of the contestants from the first Miss Bootilicious Lingerie Pageant

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Windies staying focused ahead of World Cup, states Bravo DELHI, India (CMC) – West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo is refusing to look too far ahead despite his side’s impressive win over India in the first One-Day International of the five-match series last Wednesday.

The Caribbean side shook off an on-going contracts dispute with their players union, WIPA, to slam the reigning World champions by 124 runs in a clinical performance at the Nehru Stadium in Kochi.

And even though the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand is only months away next year, Bravo backed away from any predictions, preferring instead to focus on winning the current series.

“World Cup is still a long way to go. Playing against one of the better teams in the world gives us an opportunity to see where we are as a team,” Bravo told reporters here yesterday.

“At the moment, we are here in India and the focus is on this tour. We want to see how we play in the next four games and how we can do as an ODI team. We can’t think

about what happens four months hence.

“Before that we have a tour of South Africa coming up, and that will be tough as well. So we need to just focus on the present.”

He continued: “At the moment we are here in India so that is where our focus is. We can’t (begin) to think too far ahead of ourselves or we can’t study Australia as we have the South Africa tour before.”

Bravo said though conditions in Australia would differ from those on the subcontinent, he pointed out that most members of the West Indies side were well travelled and were already accustomed to playing in different environments.

The World Cup runs from February 14 to March 29 in seven venues across Australia and seven in New Zealand.

“The players have already played in Australia, they have played in India and they have played in South Africa. That’s the good thing about interna-

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Marlon Samuels tional cricket (it’s about) being able to adjust and adapt to different conditions,” Bravo pointed out.

West Indies head to South Africa following India for three Tests, three Twenty20s and then five ODIs which conclude January 28.

They will contest Pool B of the World Cup against India, Pakistan, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ireland and qualifiers United Arab Emirates.

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35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

International tennis returns to Guyana as IGG opens

By Leeron Brumell TODAY, the first ball will be served to signal the return of international tennis competition on these shores.

Three countries – defending team champions French Guiana, Suriname and host team Guyana battle over two days for the Inter-Guiana Games title.

Guyana last saw international play some three decades ago, and it comes a decade after the Guyana Tennis Association was resuscitated with Grace McCalman at the head.

Each team will pres-

ent 12 players on show for the Guyanese public, divided into four different age groups, namely, Under-12, U-14 and U-18 divisions.

An enthusiastic McCalman told the players, guests and parents ‘This is very special for the GTA and it tells a story that we’re moving upwards’.

Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony, who declared the event open, hopes for continuity and the building of friendships.

“It’s not only playing the games, while we can have friendly competitions and

try to develop our skills, it opens up opportunities for us to learn more about each other’s country and its culture.’

Dr Anthony also urged the teams to ‘show the spirit of sportsmanship’ as he said international tennis is making a return in a ‘big way’ to Guyana.

The IGG tennis tournament was restarted three years ago in Suriname.

Last year it was held in French Guiana.

Today, there will be 36 Singles matches – Girls at GBTI Bel Air and the Under-12 Boys at the Panday

Court also in Bel Air. The Under-14 and U-18 boys are at GBTI Diamond. Tomorrow, 18 Doubles matches are to be contested, with a venue switch for the sexes.

Matches begin at 08:30hrs at both venues and the Guyana team comprises 11 players: Boys U-18: Daniel Lopes, Khalif Gobin.

Boys U-14: Keenan Persaud, Mark McDonald. Boys U-12: Jordan Beaton, Hemraj Resaul. Girls U-18: Nicola Ramdyhan, Aretha Dey. Girls U-14: Afruica Gentle, Shivanie Persaud and Girls U-12: Kalyca Fraser, Sarah Klavtky.

Minister of Sport, Dr Frank Anthony offers the Ceremonial Serve to signal the start of the Inter-Guiana Games Tennis Tournament.

FIFA residential candidate Jerome Champagne refuses to call Blatter a dictator … ‘It’s not about criticising anyone, but we need a new generation of leaders’

By Rawle Toney CORRUPT, fraudulent, deceptive, illusory and the most commonly used of them all ‘dictator; are just some of the adjectives used to describe FIFA boss Joseph ‘Sepp’ Blatter on a normal day’s conversations.

However, while the average person might think alike and using various synonyms when speaking about the long-standing FIFA president, one man thinks differently and his view outweighs that of the

average Joe. Jerome Champagne, the 56-year-old Frenchman will be running against Blatter at next year’s FIFA Congress and Election and he believes that the 78-year-old Swiss is far from being a dictator.

Surprising, isn’t it?

One would believe that for someone like Champagne, who once served as an adviser to Blatter during his 11 years spent in FIFA (1999 – 2010), would expose or come forward to ‘tell it all’ about Blatter’s perceived iron-fist ruling but the French instead

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 15 (2) Sachin Tendulkar-4 Today’s Quiz: (1) Put these in order beginning with the man who struck most sixes in ODI cricket: Yuvraj Singh; Viv Richards; Brian Lara; Surav Ganguly (2) Against how many teams India have contested ODIs to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

FIFA president Joseph ‘Sepp’ Blatter

played it diplomatic.

In a recent exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, Champagne, when grilled about the FIFA’s president dictatorship claims, said “I’m not here to defend Mr. Blatter, but in a democratic country, the people will vote to appoint their Prime Minister; that person has the right to choose the Government to implement the programmes he or she has generated.

That’s democracy, but in FIFA, that’s not the case because the government of FIFA is imposed on the President because the members elected by the Confederations as I am told are not members, so you see FIFA and Mr Blatter are blamed for everything”.

It is said that Blatter is as dominant as any president of any country. Some would argue that he’s just as or even more powerful than the ‘leader of the free world’ U,S, President Barak Obama. And why not?

Blatter controls 209 Member Associations/ Countries; that’s 16 more countries than the United Nations and, he’s ranked at number 69 on the list of the world’s top 100 powerful people by Forbes Magazine and a net worth of US$10M though his salary still remains on the world’s biggest secrets.

But with the accusations, some even with evidence, why wouldn’t Champagne take off the gloves; fight dirty like the case in most (if not all) political gamut?

“To be honest, most of these people who are saying these things are not smart people and people who have the knowledge of football,” Champagne opined.

“Three months ago, it was said that Former President of Qatar and the Asian Confederation (Mohammed bin Hammam) gave $3M to the Family of former CONCACAF president Mr Jack Warner but allegedly, that was between two confed-

erations and FIFA doesn’t know of these things happening but FIFA gets the blame”.

“I’ll give you another example: when a player in Spain goes back to his club from an international match and he goes back injured, the Spanish people call that the FIFA virus but once again FIFA not responsible for creating the format of their competition. But, as they say, perception is reality and even though accusations are sometime unfair because FIFA is blamed for everything, we do realise that the image is bad and it’s one of the reasons why I’m running for FIFA president because I want to correct that, I want to reconcile people’s opinions about everything whether it’s in Guyana, England or Germany,” Champagne noted.

According to Champagne, the attacks on FIFA and its policies are now widespread, owing such to the fact that information is shared and received faster through the different media that exist today.

The former French Diplomat (1983 – 1998) added, “I would say that 5 – 10 years ago, I would say that it’s easy to blame

the British Media for the attack on FIFA, now the disrepute and the lost credibility is everywhere.

I think we need to enter the 21st century, we need a fresh face and once again, it’s not about criticising anyone, but we need a new generation of leaders”.

Champagne is of the belief that the sport and its administrators are “facing new challenges, more notably the growth of inequality in the game; there’s always more money in football in Western Europe and the gap is growing with the popularity of the game and it is a problem.”

“I’m not 100% aware of the situation in Guyana Football, but in the English Premier league, with all the money that’s being made there, nothing going back into the development of the football, so we need a new world. .

With just six months to go before Champagne challenges Blatter for the position he has held since defeated UEFA president Lennart Johansson in 1998, pundits and other enthusiasts will be looking on to see if his campaign trail will continue with him in his present goody two-shoe character.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Albion responds to the disciplinary action taken against its players by the BCB THE ALBION Community Centre Cricket Club wishes to respond to a Press Release from the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) that was printed in last Thursday’s edition (October 23, 2014 ) of the Guyana Chronicle Newspaper titled “Permaul heads list of players that were reprimanded by BCB”.

This Press Release has once again demonstrated the high level unprofessionalism of the BCB and its utter disrespect that it continues to display towards the Executives and Members of the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club.

According to the Press Release, Albion cricketers Veerasammy Permaul and Anthony Bramble were fined $15 000 and $10 000 respectively and were also both paced on a one year’s good behaviour

Veerasammy Permaul

bond while Jonathan Foo was issued with a Warning Letter while two cricketers from the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club were also sanctioned.

The Press Release further stated that the players were penalised as a result of their poor sportsmanship displayed during the final of the recently concluded Berbice Bridge Company 50

Overs First Division Cricket Final that was played at the Albion Community Centre ground.

While the Club at no time will endorse poor sportsmanship from any of its members, the club is very much dissatisfied with the way in which the BCB has opted to pronounce on the alleged misconduct of the cricketers, who were not allowed an opportunity to be heard and only learnt of the Board’s decision via the press.

Following an exchange of emails between the Club and the BCB, which this medium was privileged to see, the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club is asking a few questions of the BCB, seeking an early and amicable response, lest judicial action be taken.

The questions asked by Albion are:

Anthony Bramble

Why the BCB did not respond to the request of the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club to reschedule the meeting that was set for Wednesday, October 15, 2014 to a mutually agreed date?

Why did the Executives of the BCB deal with this matter in conjunction with the Board’s Disciplinary Committee when the matter should have been addressed firstly by the Disciplinary Committee?

Why the rules of ‘Natural Justice’ were breached and the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club and its three cricketers (Permaul, Bramble and Foo) were not allowed to be heard or is it a case of the BCB’s Executives being the Judge, Jury and Executioner?

The Albion Community Centre Cricket Club hereby requests that the BCB rescind its decisions and allow ‘Due Process’ to prevail. Failing to do so and this matter not expeditiously resolved to the satisfaction of all concern, legal action will be sought.

The Albion Community Centre Cricket Club also found it strange that the BCB in its Press Release stated: “The BCB is worried about the poor and hostile relationship that exists between the Rose Hall Town Youth and

Jonathan Foo

Sports Club and the Albion Community Centre.”

This statement in the opinion of the Club can be deemed fictitious since the two clubs enjoy a cordial relationship. However, as expected in any professional sport, there is always a high level of competitiveness between the two clubs.

Gibson says he West Indies collapsed tour of India must spark change - Ian Bishop was fired by the WICB K I N G S TO N , J a m a i c a (CMC) - Ottis Gibson says he was fired as West Indies head coach despite a statement from the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) suggesting otherwise.

Gibson’s declaration three months after ending ties with the WICB contradicts a statement from the board which said the two had mutually agreed to end their association.

Gibson and WICB severed ties in August on the eve of a series against Bangladesh involving two-test matches and One Day Internationals (ODI).

He has been quoted in the regional media as saying he was shocked when WICB president Dave Cameron fired him during a telephone conversation.

He says Cameron told

Ottis Gibson him that players had lost confidence in him.

Gibson’s contract was renewed last year after taking up the post in January 2010.

His finest moment with the Windies came when he led them to victory in the ICC World Twenty20 tournament two years ago.

(BBC SPORT) - WEST INDIEs cricket must treat the collapse of their tour of India as a “wakeup call”, according to their former fast bowler Ian Bishop.

The Windies left India after the fourth one-day match because of a pay dispute between board and players.

“It must be a wakeup call because any team who was going to invite the West Indies to their shores - this will be at the back of their mind,” he said. “I don’t think the players understood the ramifications of such a move.”

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 live, Bishop also says the threat of legal action by the Board of Control for Cricket in India could be crippling. “(The BCCI) must be aware that if they

Ian Bishop

bankrupt West Indies it reduces the spectacle of world cricket,” he said.

In addition to threatening legal action against the West Indies Cricket Board

(WICB), the BCCI has suspended tours to West Indies, including scheduled fixtures in the Caribbean in February and March 2016.

“The revenue that the We s t I n d i e s cricket board would have gained would have spilled into their grassroots cricket,” added Bishop, who played 43 Tests and 84 ODIs He said the future of the We s t I n d i e s team was under threat but that he was confident a solution would be found if administration at the WICB improved.

After losing their fourth one-day international to India last week, West Indies ended their tour, with the WICB stating that captain Dwayne Bravo had told them the players were withdrawing their services.

He is one of a number of senior players from the West Indies Players’ Association who rejected a new agreement with the WICB that outlines pay and conditions.

The West Indies’ withdrawal came with five matches still scheduled on the tour and India will now play Sri Lanka, starting on November 2.

The International Cricket Council said the dispute between the two teams prompted “concern” and will discuss the issue in its board meeting on November 10.

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Lumumba applauds FIFA’s move GENERAL SECRETARY of the Georgetown Football League, Odinga Lumumba, is applauding FIFA’s latest intervention in Guyana’s football but its timing is being questioned.

“Things were at a standstill, football wasn’t moving, money wasn’t coming in, and so in my opinion FIFA had a right to come in. However, what FIFA has done recently should have been done a long time ago. They should have done something like this 20 years ago,” Lumumba declared.

Earlier this week a FIFA two-man team afforded GFF president

Odinga Lumumba Christopher Matthias the ignominy of joining Colin Klass as the second successive president to be booted

from office by the world governing body.

On Tuesday CONCACAF Director of Legal Affairs Marco Leal and FIFA’s Head of Associations Premo Cavaro issued a red card to Matthias and is replacing the executive of the GFF with a five-man Normalisation Committee.

Matthias was elected president in April 2013 for a two-year term but from the inception his stay in office was rocked by controversy.

Vice-president Rawlston Adams resigned soon after citing dictatorial tendencies in the president and last January, Matthias slapped hefty bans on for-

mer national striker Collie `Hitman’ Hercules, another vice-president and Sharma Solomon, president of the Upper Demerara Football Association.

Matthias’ troubles were only beginning as a vote of No Confidence was brought against him, and there was successive abandonment of Congress, the latter forcing FIFA to intervene.

“I think that FIFA is now being proactive. This issue is not about Matthias. Rather everyone has to take the blame for where our football is. For years we allowed Klass (Colin) to do what he wanted.

What that did is set the

stage for dictatorship to emerge. It is my belief that FIFA should have stepped in then also, However, its better late than never,” Lumumba, the president of Guyana’s leading club Alpha United added.

Commenting on the selection of the Normalisation Committee Lumumba said he is not aware of who are the persons summoned to serve.

“I don’t know what criteria are being used for selection and I don’t know who FIFA consulted. I would think that the various associations should be consulted. My only

Digicel Cancer Awareness Cycle Road Race

New champion to be crowned

By Michael DaSilva AFTER his club Team COCO’s pulled out of the recently concluded fivestage cycle road race, following an infringement of the rules, reigning Digicel Cancer Awareness Cycle Road Race champion Raynauth ‘Obeah Man’ Jeffrey, will not be able to defend that crown this year when the event pedals off on Sunday morning.

This course of action came about after president of the Guyana Cycling Federation Cheryl Thompson demanded that Jeffrey’s club boss Ian ‘QB’ Davis make an apology for withdrawing his cyclists from the event at

… Team COCO’s Jeffrey ineligible to participate the end of the second stage.

During the stage that was held from Rosignol to Carifesta Avenue - the same for the upcoming Digicel event a breakaway of three cyclists, including two from Team COCO’s, occurred but was not wide enough to cater for the three minutes interval.

Having breached the rules, David saw all his cyclists being handed a 30-second penalty by Race Commissar Malcolm Sonaram at the end of the stage, following which he withdrew his cyclists from competing in the event - a decision several

Raynauth Jeffrey cycling enthusiasts called premature.

However, Thompson at the presentation ceremony held at the completion of the five stages, called on Davis to issue an apology or face the consequences and with

none forthcoming from the Miami, Florida-based Davis, Team COCO’s have found themselves in hot water.

Such a position means that not only Jeffrey will not be eligible to compete on Sunday, but the Veterans champion Junior Niles, who, like Jeffrey, dominated this event last year to take top honours in this category.

“The Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) will not allow Team COCO’s to take any further participation in any cycling event sanctioned by the GCF,” Sonaram told Chronicle Sport, adding that

such a decision was made by the GCF president Thompson who said the penalty will be lifted when the Team’s management makes an apology.

With Jeffrey and Niles being unable to defend their title, a new senior champion who will pocket $250 000 and a veteran champion who will be rewarded with $50 000, will be crowned this Sunday in the event which carries a total prize money of G$1M. The defending junior champion is Michael Anthony while Hazina Bharrat of Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club, is the defending cham-

hope is that those chosen to serve are neutral, have management capabilities, are cognisant of the issues affecting football and have the respect of the football fraternity.”

The Normalisation Committee (NC) will be in place shortly and would be in office until September 2015. FIFA and CONCACAF have mandated the NC to formulate a new constitution for the GFF and its affiliates and run the day-to-day operations of the local football which comprises interfacing with stakeholders and attendinng FIFA and CONCACAF meetings. pion for the female category.

The juniors and the seniors will wheel off from the Berbice River Bridge, while the female and juveniles will move off from the bridge crossing the Mahaica Old Road. All categories of cyclists will cross the finish line on Carifesta Avenue after completing two laps around the outer circuit of the National Park.

For the senior category, the second place finisher will receive $200 000 while the other top four performers will collect $150 000, $100 000, $50 000 and $25 000 respectively.

In the junior category, the second- and third-place finishers will receive $50 000 and $30 000 respectively, as will the first- and second-place riders in the female and veterans categories, while the first three finishers in the Juvenile category will be rewarded with trophies.

Former Test bowler Lawson stars as U.S. crush Bermuda KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (CMC) – Former West Indies fast bowler Jermaine Lawson marked his debut for the United States by helping to demolish Bermuda on the opening day of the six-nation Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division Three 50 overs tournament in Malaysia yesterday.

The Jamaican claimed three for 30 from 5.5 overs as Bermuda were routed for 106 inside 27 overs before the U.S. romped to a six-wicket victory in just 21.5 overs at Bayuemas Oval.

Having qualified to play for the U.S. based on the

ICC’s four-year residency requirement, Lawson, 32, who played 13 Tests before moving to America in 2010, struck with his first ball, removing opener Terryn Fray.

Lawson was joined in the demolition of the top and middle order by fellow seamer Usman Shuja, who snapped up three for 12, after the U.S. won the toss and elected to field.

Allan Douglas, Jr, who top-scored with 36, was one of only three Bermuda batsmen to reach double figures.

In reply, the U.S. slipped to 45 for three inside 11 overs but 35-year-old Guya-

nese-born captain Steve Massiah steadied the ship and helped steer his side home with three sixes and two fours in his 27-ball 31.

Pick of the Bermuda attack was 17-year-old left-arm slow bowler Delray Rawlins, who took two for 40 from 7.5 overs.

In other matches, Uganda beat Nepal by 20 runs, while Singapore edged Malaysia by two wickets with seven balls to spare.

Playing at Kinrara Academy Oval, Mpho Mukobe and Brian Masaba both scored half-centuries in Uganda’s 203 for eight as the pair shared a

137-run partnership for the sixth wicket.

Mukobe’s 102-ball 84 included three sixes and six fours, while Masaba hit five fours in his 51.

Opener Naresh Budayair struck 62 for Nepal before he fell in the 38th over with the total on 122 for five and the target proved out of the team’s reach.

Off-spinner Davis Arinaitwe led the Uganda attack with four for 33 from his 10 overs and was well supported by seamer Roger Mukasa’s three for 28.

At Selangor Turf Club, half-centuries from captain

Ahmed Faiz (57) and Anwar Arudin (51) helped Malaysia reach 136 for two before the team collapsed to 198 all out in the 48th over as Mulewa Dharmichand claimed three for 27 and Abhiraj Singh three for 43.

Opener Arjun Mutreja provided the backbone of Singapore’s 199 for eight as they squeezed home after captain Saad Janjua hit a run-a-ball 32, despite the efforts of fast bowler Hassan Ghulam, who finished with four for 15 from 8.2 overs.

Today, Bermuda take on Nepal, Malaysia play the U.S.

and Singapore face Uganda.

The two finalists will gain promotion to Division Two, which will be played in Namibia from January 17 to 24, 2015. That tournament is the final step in the qualification pathway to the ICC’s four-day, first-class competition for Associate and Affiliate members, the ICC Intercontinental Cup, as well as the 50-over World Cricket League Championship.

The tournament was originally scheduled for Uganda but was switched to Malaysia because of health and safety fears in the African country.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Guyana arrive in Suriname for Inter-Guiana Games final leg ... Kumar optimistic of success

By Rawle Toney in Suriname AFTER ENDURING a 12-hour journey to neighbouring Suriname, Team Guyana arrived to compete in the final leg of the 2014 Inter-Guiana Games which gets on the way today and concludes on Sunday October 26.

This year marks over 40 years since the three countries (Guyana Suriname and French Guiana) are competing against one another in the spirit of ‘Goodwill’ and, after winning the first leg of the event which was held in Guyana earlier this year, ‘The Land of Many Waters’ will be aiming to win outright.

Some of the country’s best athletes in the disciplines of Cycling, Chess, Volleyball and Badminton were selected by their respective Associations/ Federations but Guyana

Neil Kumar

Poole, London depart Thursday for Korea TECHNICAL DIRECTOR of the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association Terrence Poole and leading female middleweight boxer Theresa London will depart Guyana next Thursday for South Korea to participate in the Women’s World Boxing Championship scheduled for November 13 to 25 in Jeju Island.

GABA received the travel itinerary for the two yesterday and the 19-year-old London is the lone active female boxer with international experience, having recently returned from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland and will engage in a ten-day training stint in Korea leading up to the championship.

Poole, who fills the dual role of manager/coach was an automatic choice since at present he is the only AIBA-certified Three Star coach in Guyana and that the World Championship requires Three Star coach-

will not be competing in the male and female football event.

Following the opening ceremony at the Ismay van Wilgen Sporthal at 16:00hrs, Guyana’s female volleyball team will take on French Guiana after which the men will engage the hosts at 19:00hrs.

Cycling Male and Female time trials are set for 08:00hrs then the three countries young minds will square off in the game of Chess at the Star Dust Hotel at 10:00hrs simultaneously with table tennis and badminton being contested at the Table Tennis Centre Zinniastraat and the Chinese Sporthal.

Director of Sport Neil Kumar, who greeted the 76-member Guyanese delegation, expressed his delight at the prospects of Guyana dethroning defending overall Champions Suriname.

He encouraged the Guyanese contingent to be good ambassadors and stressed the importance of coming out victorious but playing in the spirit of the championships.

The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has selected its best juniors with St. Stanislaus College’s Elishaba Johnson and Mae’s Kyle Edghill being the most notable of the four players, with Priscilla Greaves of Marian Academy and Selenas Jackman as their team members.

The Ramdhani siblings, Narayan and Priyanna, will spearhead a strong badminton team that also includes their Marian Academy school mates Krystal Peters and Jonathan Mangra as well as Ambika Ramraj of Queen’s College.

For long, French Guiana have held a rigid hold

on chess but the team of Haifeng Su, Jessica Clementson, Roberto Neto and Sheriffa Ali are all aiming to win Guyana’s first title in the sport, while much is expected of Guyana’s male and female Volleyball teams, since their triumph is seen as a must, if Suriname are to be dethroned for their overall title.

Volleyball (female): Onica Felix, Vashti Pooran, Rafaella Richardson, Kelshine Griffith, Tenisha Cort, Melisa Marks, Lisa Marks, Akeila Brown, Padmini Nankoo, Dian Mandokin and Cassie Junor.

Volleyball (male): Davendra Latchman, Anthony Fraser, Kumar Budhram, Anthony Veerapen, Muaaz Inshan, Rolwyn Heywood, Daniel Ritchie, Klondyke Rodney, Joshua Jagmohan, Ravi Rampartab, Xavier Lambert, Yoganand Dhoray and Ryon Mangrau.

GT Beer/Berbice Cup 2014

Past Berbice footballers honoured Theresa London Terrence Poole es to officiate at ringside.

London, the daughter of former world heavyweight champion, Pamela `The Grenade’ London, also represented Guyana at the South American Championships in Chile earlier this year and was adjudged Best Female Boxer at this year’s Goodwill Games held in Guyana.

Poole, a veteran coach, picked up his Three Star certificate one year ago when he successfully completed

the exams in Kazakhstan and is now one of eight in the English-speaking Caribbean. The name of Poole and London were last month submitted to AIBA for approval to participate.

The World Championship would be held around the same time that AIBA is staging its Congress.

The last Congress was held in 2010 in Almaty, Kazakhstan and GABA would be represented by its president at the upcoming event.

Both are expected back home on November 27.

CO-HOSTS, Monedderlust Football Club and Starlight Generation, will pay respect to and honour some past outstanding footballers from the Ancient County of Berbice as their names are added to all the individual trophies in the current Berbice Cup Knock Out Tournament.

The eight-team tournament which is being sponsored in part by Banks DIH Limited through their GT Beer this year, commenced on October 4 and is set for an exciting climax tomorrow at the Monedderlust field in Number Five Village, West Coast Berbice.

According to the Tournament’s Chief Organiser, Kevin Layne Jr, “All the individual trophies will be named after past outstanding players from Berbice and all have been secured. I must say special thanks to Oliver Hinckson and Trophy Stall for willingly supporting this year’s Tournament by donating trophies,” Layne said.

The James Paul trophy will go to the ‘MVP’ and the Best Defender will receive the Gordon Alphonso trophy, both of which were donated by Oliver Hinckson while Trophy Stall contributed the Kenneth ‘Skip’ Price trophy for the ‘Best Goalkeeper’ and Starlight Generation the Roger Alphonso ‘Top Goalscorer’ trophy.

Paul who represented Guyana at the Junior and senior levels in the early eighties was a utility player who hailed from the now defunct Arsenal Football Club of New Amsterdam.

Price, who wore the senior national colours in the early eighties as well and was also from Arsenal, distinguished himself in the City with Santos Football Club alongside Paul, even as Roger Alphonso also represented Guyana at the Junior and senior levels and his elder brother Gordon played for the Junior national team.

Both Gordon and Roger Alphonso migrated to the USA, with Gordon going onto attend the Clemson University and Roger the University of San Francisco where he became the first and only Guyanese to win the NCAA Football Championship in 1978.

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 24, 2014

Bodybuilders off to Darcy Beckles Invitational Leeron Brumell THREE LOCAL bodybuilders are hoping to proudly fly the Golden Arrowhead in Barbados this weekend, when they compete in the Darcy Beckles Invitational Classic, scheduled to be held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre and will have as its guest poser, Dexter ‘The Blade’ Jackson.

He is a late replacement for ten-time Miss Olympia Iris Kyle.

Godfrey Stoby, Careus Cipriani and Marlon Bennett are the athletes being accompanied by bodybuilding executives Videsh Sookram, who will function as coach, Stacey McKinnon General secretary and Moressa Sookram, treasurer.

It will be the second outing for Stoby and Bennett at the event, having first participated in 2010,

Dexter ‘The Blade’ Jackson but did not finish on the podium and when they do tomorrow, they will be competing in the International Classic which will feature the regional competitors including the top three Barbadian bodybuilders.

Cipriani is the ‘newbie’ on the team and will compete in the Men’s Physique competition – a first at the event, after he copped second place

to Sylvester Adams in the welterweight class at the Mr Guyana competition in August.

The Men’s Physique class features athletes, who prefer to develop a less muscular yet, athletic and aesthetically pleasing physique, and Bennett won the Lightweight class, while Stoby finished second to reigning Mr Guyana Kerwin Clarke.

The team, which left from the Ogle International Airport, are all confident of doing well and they believe they are better prepared to take the stage.

The Barbados Nation reports that 40 male and female athletes from St Lucia, Guyana, Antigua, St Maarten, Bermuda and Barbados, will compete in body fitness, open classic, bikini fitness, men’s physique and the Invitational Classic.

Jackson, a former Mr Olympia (2008) is fresh from winning the Dubai

The Darcy Beckles team, L-R – Stacey McKinnon, Careus Cipriani, Godfrey Stoby, Marlon Bennett, Videsh Sookram and Moressa Sookram.

Bodybuilding Classic three weeks ago.

The Darcy Beckles Invitational Classic is organised by former Bar-

bados champion Roger Boyce in honour of the celebrated Darcy Beckles, who won every major local and Caribbean

contest during his heyday and was the spearhead of Barbados’ assault on the Mr Universe stage from 1976-79.

Steve’s Jewellery hands over MVP prizes for Guyana Softball Cup 4 WITH action in the fourth annual Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA)-organised ‘Guyana Softball Cup 4’, set to bowl off one week from today, Steve’s Jewellery World, as they have done for the past three tournaments, proudly handed over the Most Valuable Player (MVP) prizes to the organising body.

The tournament will be played in two categories, Open and Masters Over-45 and both categories will have an MVP who will be the recipient of one 14-carat gold bracelet, accentuated with diamond studs.

Last Tuesday afternoon, GFSCA president Ramchand Ragbeer received the pieces of jewellery, noting that the GFSCA is grateful for such noteworthy support from corporate Guyana, while adding that Steve’s Jewellery has been onboard with the Guyana Softball Cup since its inception in 2011, making it one of the core sponsors of the country’s premier softball tournament.

Proprietor of the business, Steve Narine, himself a for-

mer GFSCA president said the competition has grown significantly from when it first started and that’s the main reason why he has chosen to remain onboard.

This year, the jewellery establishment has taken it one step further, adding diamond studs to the pieces, which are worth a combined G$400 000 and will be handed over at the completion of the tournament on Sunday, November 2, at the presentation ceremony.

Meanwhile, the GSFCA has released the venues for the tournament which will run from next Friday, October 31 and culminate under the recently installed lights at the Lance Gibbs Street; Queenstown-based Demerara Cricket Club, known as ‘Home of the Legends’.

Twenty-four matches will be played on Friday, October 31, at six venues across Georgetown as listed below: 1. Police ground, Eve Leary: 3 matches at 09:00hrs, 3 matches at 13:30hrs.

2. Everest ground: 3 at

… Venues identified for tournament

A representative of Steve’s Jewellery (second right) presents the two bracelets to president of the GFSCA, Ramchand Ragbeer, in the presence of GFSCA vice-president Ricky Deonarain (left) and proprietor of Steve’s Jewellery. es at 09:00hrs 09:00hrs, 3 at 13:30hrs.

3: Bourda ground: 2 at 09:00hrs, 2 at 13:30hrs.

4: DCC, Queenstown: 2 at 09:00hrs, 2 at 13:30hrs.

5; Malteenoes ground 1 at 09:00hrs, 1 at 13:30hrs.

6: MYO ground: 1 at 09:00hrs, 1 at 13:30hrs.

On Saturday, November 1, 12 more preliminary round matches will be played along with the four semifinals in both the Open and Masters Over-45 categories respectively, at the following grounds: Police ground: 3 match-

Everest ground: 3 at 09:00hrs, 13:30hrs 2 Semi-Finals Bourda: 2 matches at 09:00hrs, 13:30hrs 2 Semi-Finals.

DCC ground: 2 matches at 09:00hrs.

Malteenoes ground: 1

match at 09:00hrs.

MYO ground: 1 match at 09:00hrs.

The finals will be played on Sunday, November 2 and will be preceded by the ladies matchup, whose final will be played just before the Men’s Open final and whose virtual semifinals will be contested before the Masters final.

Three female exhibitions games will be contested among Mike’s Wellwoman, 4R Lioness, Trophy Stall Angels and Karibee Girls and will be a 10/10 affair commencing at 11:00hrs with the schedule as follows:.

11:00hrs: First female semi-final 10/10 12:30hrs: Second female semi-final 10/10 14:00hrs: Guyana Softball Cup 4 Male Masters final 20/20.

17:15hrs: Female final.

10/10. Day/ Night match 18:30hrs: Guyana Softball Cup 4 Male Open Final 20/20 Night match.

21:30hrs: Presentation Ceremony.

22:00hrs: Conclusion of Guyana Softball Cup 4.

Sport CHRONICLE

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

Gibson says he was fired by the WICB See Story on Page 36

International tennis returns to Guyana as IGG opens See Story on Page 35

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony and GTA executives pose with the Suriname, Guyana and French Guiana (R) teams.

Guyana arrive in Suriname for Inter-Guiana Games final leg See Story on Page 38

Director of Sport Neil Kumar and some of Guyana’s representatives at the IGG in Suriname upon arrival yesterday.

(Rawle Toney photo) 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, OCTOBER 24, 2014