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President, former president warn of plot to subvert May 11 Polls No. 104178 MONDAY MAY 4, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

President Donald Ramotar

The mammoth gathering at the PPP/C rally at Bath Settlement yesterday (Photos by Adrian Narine)

Guyana set to become upper middle-income country

British High Commissioner, Mr James Quinn

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Six children successfully complete heart surgery at GPHC

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Thousands chant ‘Harper for PM’ at Region 5 rally

--as President Ramotar’s running mate worked her magic

By Rebecca Ganesh AMIDST loud cheers and approving chants of “Harper for PM”, she took to the stage with customary poise. “Are you ready for another victory to let progress continue?” she asked.

Needless to say the response that innocous little query elicited.

No doubt satisfied that she had the audience’s undivided attention and that they were on the same page, her next volley was, “Who will lead our country for the next five years? Are you ready to make that choice? Will you choose a leader and a Party that have brought so much progress? Are you ready for the Presidency of Donald Ramotar?” And again, the answer was a resounding “Yes!” Speaking to the thousands of PPP/C supporters before her on the tarmac at Bath Settlement Tarmac, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper noted that under the strong leadership of the PPP/C Government, there was an expansion of Guyana’s economy in such key sectors as agriculture, health, education and housing.

She spoke with confidence of the achievements that were made a reality countrywide under the PPP/C Government. “In your community, you have more services in education, health and job opportunities,” she said. “You are now able to build your own homes with the help of the Housing Ministry. The agricultural sector improves even further under this Government.”

Speaking specifically to the young people who will be voting for the first time, she emphasised, “I want you to listen very carefully; soon, you might be standing on this stage and putting forward a vision... I encourage you to work hard and help to build this blessed country…”

BENEFITS FOR THE PEOPLE The PM candidate spoke on the many aspects of the manifesto and the benefits for the people of Guyana. “Food security is at the top of our agenda, increased production and the diversification of our other crops, we will also continue to partner with the private sector to create more investment projects and jobs creation,” she related.

PPP/C prime ministerial candidate, Elisabeth Harper making the point that May 11 is about making Guyana better EMPOWERING WOMEN She also applauded the contribution of the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and the excellent work they have been doing in Berbice.

DEVELOPMENT FUND FOR REGION 5 She noted that through the PPP/C manifesto, the Government will establish a special development fund for Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) that will encourage job and health creation activities. Harper told her supporters that education is a priority of this Government as she alluded to the many achievements of this sector. She noted also that with a better education system the country will have enhanced job opportunities by preparing the country for a high educational sector.

Empowering women is vital, Harper noted, “We will review all the laws that will encourage and promote women’s rights and equality. We must exercise zero tolerance on domestic violence.” She explained that domestic violence destroys who we are and everything we stand for and we as a community should not encourage it. “I encourage our men to participate in this fight also.”

“Single parents will be able to also further their education, training and day care services will be provided, child support will be mandatory by the court,” she pointed out, noting some of the opportunities that will be available to single parents.

She further explained that the PPP/C Government has See Page 6

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

PPP/C warns of plot to subvert May 11 Polls – calls on Police, GECOM, Intl. Observers to act now lest things escalate

Former President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo addressing the Bath Rally yesterday

WARNING of a calculated plot to disrupt the May 11 General and Regional Elections was sounded yesterday, which diabolical ploy, if allowed to go unchecked, will have dire consequence for Guyana.

As such, Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud, has been called upon to charge A Partnership For National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition member James Bond, over statements he would have posted on social media during the course of the Disciplined Services Vote on Saturday last.

The call came from none other than Former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, who was among the many speakers yesterday at Bath Settlement in Berbice, where the ruling Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) staged yet another of its massive rallies as the 2015 General and Regional Election campaign heads down the proverbial homestretch.

It was not all smiles and jubilation as the rally pressed on, and Jagdeo took to the podium and warned of a deliberate plot already set in motion to subvert the elections next Monday, May 11, and to cause confusion.

In fact, Jagdeo has also called on the Chairman of the Guyana Elections

Commission (GECOM) to immediately launch an investigation into the recent negative and downright dangerous events surrounding the campaign that have been escalating of late, and to take necessary action.

Jagdeo told the thousands of Berbicians gathered at the Bath Settlement venue not to be fooled by those calling the recent incidents “maverick or isolated”.

He rather contends that it is a concerted effort on the part of the Opposition to create confusion on polling Day. He drew reference to the GECOM Chairman’s documented castigation of Bond’s statement.

Jagdeo said the GECOM Commissioner had noted that if Bond’s comments can be verified as accurate, then there will be consequence.

The Former President is however convinced that Bond’s statement is downright illegal. The practicing attorney had posted on a social networking website that the Joint Services had voted overwhelmingly in support of the coalition: 94 per cent, he suggested.

“I have heard right across Guyana,” Jagdeo said, “people describing attempts, what I view as organised attempts to create confusion in the polls on

Election Day.” He warned that these attempts were in no way “maverick” or “isolated” or “loose-cannon behaviour”.

According to Jagdeo, “It is no way maverick behaviour; nor is it loose- cannon behaviour.” He said there is in fact “a pattern to all of this, and if we don’t put a stop to it now, then on Election Day, there shall be consequences for this country.”

Jagdeo also called on the people that are entrusted to ensure the elections are organised and executed in a fair and transparent manner, this being GECOM, to not sit and become complacent, and view the attempts as isolated.

The Former president used his address at Bath Settlement yesterday to directly appeal to GECOM to deal with what he calls illegal attempts to subvert the polls come next Monday.

“So, Mr (Steve) Surujbally, Mr (Keith) Lowenfield, the Chairman of GECOM and the Chief Executive Officer, you need to apply the laws of this country to such behaviour; do not excuse them, because it is the testing ground for creating confusion on Elections Day,” Jagdeo said, adding: “How could James bond know about the military vote” when the ballots are

yet to be counted?

Asking the thousands of Berbicians whether they could recall that the leadership of the PPP/C had earlier warned about the subverting of the Military and Police by the APNU+AFC coalition, Jagdeo said, “It has already started.”

He posited, “If you are trying to paint the Disciplined Services as being partisan; as pro-PNC, then you are basically going back to something that this country suffered; that Granger championed, which was the paramountcy of the Party.”

Former president Jagdeo declared that for Bond to make such a statement without having the facts, “then it is illegal; they have to charge him now.”

A clearly impassioned Jagdeo told the equally receptive supporters, “They have to charge him, and send a signal to this country.”

Warning that this was not the only aspect of the plot, Jagdeo said that the Opposition “launched a couple days ago another project aimed at creating confusion on Election Day.” The Former President identified this plan as ‘Project GPS’.

He explained that under Project GPS, the Opposition is calling on persons across

Guyana to take photographs of the Statements of Poll to be posted outside of each Polling Station at the close of the day, so that they can be posted on Social Media websites to provide a basis for the unofficial results.

Jagdeo argues, however, that the real danger in Project GPS is that all that is required after that is for the photographs of the Statements of Poll to be edited prior to being made public.

He said the foregoing scenario allows for when the official results “come out, and they don’t match, they will use that as an excuse to say you are cheated and bring their hordes on the street.”

Jagdeo calls it a clear attempt to subvert the polls, and used the occasion to also call on the Guyana Police Force to charge the woman accused of urinating on a PPP/C Party flag before setting it on fire.

Jagdeo said that while some would want to laugh about the matter, it is an illegal act, and the police needs to charge her now.

“We need to take firm action,” he said. “That’s not just something to laugh about; its not just crudity and characteristic behaviour of the PNC, it is illegal to destroy elections paraphernalia of another Party. The

police needs to charge her now.”

Jagdeo is of the firm view that the police needs to take affirmative action against all perpetrators.

“The Commissioner of Police needs to be told that he has to take strong action today, or else this will escalate,” he said.

GECOM needs to take a stand now, according to Jagdeo, who also singled out the International observers to be called into action also.

He said, GECOM along with the international observers must ensure that the clear efforts by the Opposition to subvert the polls come May 11, do not succeed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Nepal quake: US aid planes arrive in Kathmandu TROOPS and emergency aircraft from the United States have arrived in Nepal to help deliver aid to remote areas hit by last week’s devastating earthquake.

Relief efforts near the epicentre have been hampered by a lack of aircraft.

About 100 US marines, two helicopters and four Ospreys capable of vertical takeoff are now in Kathmandu.

Their arrival comes as Nepal’s only international airport has banned larger aircraft carrying aid from landing because of concerns over its runway.

More than 7,000 people died in the magnitude 7.8 earthquake. More than 14,021 people were injured.

The epicentre was in the Gorkha region, and many roads to the hilly district are impassable due to landslides.

tonnes had been allowed to land after the quake but restrictions have been imposed because of potholes on the runway, officials say.

Also on Sunday, the United Nations said the problem of customs controls holding up aid deliveries from the airport was “diminishing”.

“The government has taken note of some of the concerns that we’ve expressed to them and they’ve addressed those,” said Jamie McGoldrick, who is co-ordinating the UN relief effort in Kathmandu.

Victims from the Sindhupalchok district were airlifted to Kathmandu on Sunday Meanwhile the clean-up continued in one of Kathmandu’s historic squares Landslides and poor weather have hampered ef-

Victims from the Sindhupalchok district were airlifted to Kathmandu yesterday. and rescue teams waiting to planes landing at KathmanThe six aircraft are due to go out to the remote areas, du airport will not affect aid begin aid flights on Monday. we’ve got relief supplies, flights, a Nepali government spokesman said.

Brig Gen Paul Kenne- especially shelters.”

New restrictions on Planes heavier than 196 dy said: “We’ve got search

forts to deliver aid to isolated areas.

The death toll could go up, as search and rescue efforts continuing in several hill districts including Dhading, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchok, the government has said.

While the vast majority of casualties were in Nepal, about 100 people are reported to have died in neighbouring India, China and Bangladesh.

On Sunday, Nepali police released a list of foreigners who had been killed or injured. The largest group of nationals affected is Indians, with 39 known to have died and 10 injured.

The EU envoy to Nepal, Rensje Teerink, said on Friday that the whereabouts of 1,000 EU citizens was still unknown.(BBC)

Britain’s baby princess meets the grandparents LONDON, United Kingdom (AFP)- Prince William and his wife Kate showed off their new baby daughter to their loved ones yesterday as they thanked people around the world for their messages of congratulations.

Among the well-wishers was William’s brother Prince Harry, away serving with the Australian army, who said of the one-day-old princess: “She is absolutely beautiful. I can’t wait to meet her.”

As the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, their toddler son Prince George and the as yet unnamed baby spent their first full day back home after Saturday’s birth, the newborn’s grandparents came calling for a first kiss and cuddle.

William’s father Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, and his wife Camilla, the

the name of the new princess, but Kensington Palace said there would be no further news Sunday.

Betting on the baby’s name saw Charlotte overtake long-time front-runner Alice as the bookmakers’ favourite, with Victoria, Olivia and Elizabeth close behind.

“The duke and duchess are hugely grateful for the messages of congratulations they have received from people all over the world,” a palace spokesman said.

“It means a great deal to them that so many people have celebrated the arrival of their new daughter.

“Their royal highnesses were today visited by the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, Mr and Mrs Middleton, and Pippa Middleton.

“Additionally Prince Harry

Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge pose with their newborn baby Duchess of Cornwall, went to see them at Kensington Palace, as did Kate’s parents Michael and Carole Middleton, and her sister Pippa.

Uncle Harry will have to wait a while longer to see

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his niece. After completing his secondment with Australian army units in Perth and Sydney, he will undertake an official tour of New Zealand from May 9 to 16.

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has said about his new niece: ‘She is absolutely beautiful. I can’t wait to meet her’.”

Most of Britain’s Sunday newspapers carried big front-page pictures of the new baby with many running souvenir pullouts.

“Sleeping cutie,” said both The Sun and the Sunday Mirror, with a close-up of the snoozing princess.

Tourism chiefs said the baby was expected to boost visitor numbers to London.

To mark the arrival, many of the capital’s hotels and restaurants celebrated with regal-themed afternoon teas and London landmarks including Tower Bridge and the Trafalgar Square fountains were lit up in pink late Saturday.

William and Kate were expected to spend the next few days at Kensington Palace before travelling to Anmer

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Hall, their secluded 10-bedroom mansion on Queen Elizabeth II’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England.

The monarch was seen attending church there on Sunday, so it is likely she will meet her fifth great-grandchild at the private country residence.

The new baby is fourth in line to the thrones of Britain and 15 other states including Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Jamaica.

The tiny princess is behind Queen Elizabeth’s eldest son Charles, 66, his eldest son William and William’s eldest child George in the line of succession.

However, the baby is the first major royal who cannot be overtaken by any future younger brothers following changes to the monarchy’s rules to remove gender bias.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Prime Minister Anthony urged to reverse some policies CASTRIES, St. Lucia – Leader of the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP) Allen Chastanet, has appealed to Prime Minister Kenny Anthony to reverse some of the policies implemented by the current administration.

Ahead of next week’s presentation of the budget address for 2015/2016 fiscal period, Chastanet said the current government policies are not working and people are suffering.

Allen Chastanet He specifically mentioned the government’s decision to remove subsidies

on rice, flour, sugar, cooking gas and water.

“I am appealing to the

Prime Minister in the upcoming budget to reverse some of those policies because the situation has become chronic.”

Chastanet said in the last three years the economy had contracted every year, from 1.8 to 2.3 percent, with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) now projecting a 2.7 percent contraction.

He cited unemployment figures that had risen from 21 percent to just under 26 percent.

“Even more troubling is

youth unemployment which is now at 49 percent, which means that one out of every two young people in this country are unemployed,” Chastanet asserted.

He expressed concern about the fate of pensioners whom he said were especially hard hit, as well as handicapped persons and unskilled workers in the current situation.

He said while the Prime Minister talked about signs of a turn around in the economy, workers were still los-

ing their jobs as businesses continue to go under, as a result of his failed economic policies.

The House of Assembly will meet on May 12 when the Appropriation Bill will be tabled and the Prime Minister delivers the budget statement, related to the spending of EC$1.4 billion, EC$200,000 more than last year.

The debate on the Appropriation Bill will commence two days later on May 14.

Khan backtracks on some new plans T&T Minister must go, say nurses LESS than 24 hours after implementation, Health Minister Fuad Khan has backtracked on the policy allowing fathers to be present in delivery rooms in local hospitals.

He also rescinded his statement on the free use of handheld recording devices on wards and gave back the power to regional health authorities to set one-hour visiting times on mornings.

He further adjusted his pronouncement on allowing patients’ relatives to remain at the hospital around the clock.

Khan also agreed to modify several other items from the One Public Health Sector Policy which he revealed earlier this week.

The modifications to the policy came after a discussion between Khan and members of the T&T Medical Association yesterday.

In a release, the association’s president Dr. M.I.O. Rahman said the minister’s suggestions probably had good intent, but seemed a knee-jerk reaction without proper planning and implementation.

The association discussed the matter with Khan and reached an agreement on most of the policy items, including upgrading the level of security provided for staff and creating a centralised complaints authority with an ombudsman for complaints.

A nurse shouts during a demonstration at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Saturday. Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan has agreed to hold back on some of the initiatives he had planned for public hospitals after their action. at her hospital bed and over Khan, who responded to At the Eric Williams 100 nurses loudly called for questions via text message Medical Sciences Complex, Khan’s removal. yesterday, said he would be Mt. Hope, yesterday, a nurse Khan had announced that modifying the policy but not claimed she was verbally as- visiting hours, which were removing any items. saulted by the male relative previously from 11 am to “After this there will not of a patient, a husband had noon and from 3.30 pm to be the same attitude to pa- breakfast with his sick wife 6.30 pm, would be changed tients. I have asked their representatives to bring their proposal and we can find middle ground, but at least patients should know they have rights in the health sector.”

Khan also addressed the call for his removal as health minister.

“If my removal will make them provide better service to the patients and stop verbal abuse, then so be it.”

to 7 am to 9.30 am and 3pm to 5.30 pm.

The policy was completely rejected by nurses, some of whom came from other regions to call on Khan to resign.

“Fuad must go!” nurses shouted, as they spoke about a number of issues affecting the health sector.

The nurses, represented by their union, the T&T Registered Nurses Association, planned a press conference yesterday morning, but used the opportunity to protest the new policy and the treatment of nurses by the Health Ministry.

Nurses said they were not completely against the new policy, but said consultation beforehand would have allowed Khan to understand that the system at hospitals and the infrastructure meant the new changes would be problematic.

Licensed midwife and registered nurse, Nazima Hosein, said she had worked in the healthcare system

for nine years and the new policy had already caused problems to the quality of healthcare delivery.

She said there were situations where women didn’t want spouses to know about certain issues and would now find it hard to justify the privacy since the minister’s decree.

“They may have had an abortion before or are tying their tubes and don’t want their husbands to know.

Some of these women are in abusive situations and these are things that will come out of this,” Hosein said.

“There are sensitive cases, patients who are 12 and 13 years old who are abused by a male relative [who] can now sit in with the victims.” (Trinidad Guardian)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Arrival Day is a national celebration THE Guyanese nationality is a rich amalgam of diverse cultures and religions woven into a complex tapestry, of which the common denominator is the suffering that foreshadowed our emergence into a Republic. So, Arrival Day is a national celebration of that heritage.

The abolition of slavery preceded the introduc-

tion of the indenture system to British Guiana, and the cessation of both should be celebrated in a national context, because this was the genesis of the Guyanese nation.

Our past, present and future endeavours are intricately interwoven and cannot succeed without an ethos of unity.

After the slaves were freed, the colonials imported contracted workers, includ-

ing Africans.

Our sharing of events began even before the Guyana experience, for it is in Africa that the greatest Indian of all times, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhiji, began his freedom struggle by fighting for liberation against the discriminatory Apartheid system.

Slavery is a relative term. One can be enslaved

by love, hate, societal mores, the defects in one’s own psyche and within the boundaries of one’s limitations. But an enslavement where one human being is levelled to the equal, and below, of a beast of burden is a degradation both to the oppressed and the oppressor, for while one allows the bestiality of his physical being, the other displays

bestiality of a mind domineered by greed and godlessness which, perhaps, is a worse enslavement.

The history of the Middle Passage is much written of and well-documented, but it is our foreparents, whose forbearance and courage, in the face of domination and attempted domination of their physical, mental, and spiritual beings, with whom we are concerned and honouring during our commemorative activities on Arrival Day. The democracy enjoyed by all Guyanese today is the legacy of freedoms

wrested through the blood, sweat and tears of all our ancestors; and we should pay homage to the unimaginable sacrifices that paved the way for future generations to walk a pathway of peace, progress and prosperity.

The only slavery that exists today is a bondage of the mind, and all Guyanese need to heed Bob Marley’s exhortation to free ourselves from mental slavery, because it is only by unshackling our minds can we achieve our full potential for growth as individuals, as a society, and as a nation.

Thousands chant ‘Harper ...

From Page 2 over the years maintained “the rights of women, our right in all aspects of the country, our right to an education more importantly.”

Harper said further that teenage pregnancy is also a big problem and our manifesto will address these issues also. “If you had to leave school early, you have another chance to continue your education and provide for your family, opportunities will be available to support you.”

With much disappointment she related a recent incident that took place at one of the PPP/C public meetings, noting that such vulgarity was acted out in full view of children. “If as women we cannot respect ourselves how can we expect other people to respect us.”

CREATING JOBS Harper mentioned also that presently more attention needs to be given to job creation for our young people and in the PPP/C manifesto, “we will make sure jobs are created and more development and a number of new initiatives for job creation opportunities will be embarked upon.”

“With these new initiatives many more people will be able to enjoy a higher standard of living in this country,” she said. “Our manifesto will talk about housing for young people, a vision that is geared to creating a Guyana with a great future, with more interacting and dialogue and facilitate our decision making within this sector,” Harper declared.

Harper also urged persons to “help us to uphold the Code of Conduct which we signed. We, as a party, can conduct ourselves with dignity and respect. This election is about making a great country even better. Let us vote for a resounding victory on May 11.”

Elisabeth Harper greeted several party supporters who turned out at Bath Settlement yesterday (Photos by Adrian Narine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

ROHEE TELLS BATH...

‘We will fight to protect our democracy’ – ‘dis time nah lang time’

By Vanessa Narine WELCOMING chants of ‘Rohee, Rohee, Rohee’ were sounded as the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Clement Rohee, took the platform at Bath Settlement yesterday to urge thousands of supporters to send a message to the Political Opposition: “Dis time nah lang time; we will protect what we have fought for; we will fight them this time; it will be licks like peas.”

H e f u r t h e r c h a rg e d , “Granger and his acolytes never fought for free and fair elections in our country; they fought against free and fair elections, so much so that many of our comrades were imprisoned and some killed... Today they come as great defenders of what we (the PPP/C) fought for in this country.”

According to him, the signs are clear and the alli-

ance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) has been preparing its base of supporters for what it anticipates as a loss.

Rohee cited the destruction of campaign paraphernalia, intimidation of party supporters, disruption of PPP/C public meetings and more recently the ‘dastardly’ act of James Bond, a member of the political Opposition, in posting a declaration of results from Saturday’s Disciplined Services vote.

“We want to warn them that any attempt to subvert the democratic process of this country, we will fight them back….we will not allow these people who over the years rigged elections to deprive our people of their right. We have seen the signs, they are mobilizing and they are trying to interfere with the democratic process,” he said.

“Will we allow them to get into office?” Rohee

asked, to which he was answered with a resounding no.

He noted that the political Opposition is “double banging” the ruling party because it cannot handle the PPP/C singly.

“They are ganging up on us. They can’t beat us singly, they gang up on us…they double bang us, but we want them to know we are ready… they are so desperate and hungry for power that they are doing anything,” Rohee declared.

The PPP General Secretary stated that the May 11 fight is between President Donald Ramotar and APNU+AFC leader, David Granger. “We will win this fight. Each ballot is a weapon. In these elections it is the builders versus destroyers, we are the builders and they are the destroyers, we want to go forward and they want to go backward,” he said.

CONVINCING WIN Rohee was emphatic in underscoring the importance

of a “convincing win” at the polls. “We don’t want a victory that is narrow. We don’t want a victory that is slim.

We want a victory that is so wide, the world can see.”

The PPP General Secretary stressed that the Guyanese people cannot gamble with the future of the country.

“If we want to win we have to be strong…we have to stand up for what we believe in…we have to lay the foundation for making this country prosperous,” he said.

Rohee stated too that there is much work to be done.

“We have a major task ahead of us and the task is to keep the votes we have, bring back those who didn’t vote and win those who are new voters…this is a major task…we need to commit ourselves to working hard every day to win these elections,” he said.

Political maneuverings aside, the PPP General Secretary urged that every sup-

PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee addressing thousands yesterday at Bath Settlement

porter must be a “soldier” for the party.

“Everyone must go out there and be a soldier for the PPP…speak to everyone.

This elections we cannot lose, too precious to allow ourselves to be thrown back.

Come May 11, each ballot will drive a nail in the cof-

fin of the PNC (People’s National Congress – the majority partner of APNU),” he said.

Rohee declared that Guyana must keep moving forward and the Guyanese people must continue to be afforded an improving quality of life and progress.

MANICKCHAND TALKS TOUGH AT BATH RALLY

‘We are a peaceful party, but we will not be bullied’

By Rebecca Ganesh “WE are a peaceful party, but we will not be bullied.

Mark your ‘X’ next to the cup, and reject that sort of bullyism, ” Senior Member of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Priya Manickchand declared as she

urged thousands of persons at Bath Settlement to vote for the PPP/C. Manickchand told Party supporters that the only party that can give them progress is the PPP/C Government. Referring to the Government, she said, “We live what we say; we practise what we preach. We

An enthused Priya Manickchand addressing the thousands at Bath Settlement yesterday

invest in our young people; we do it tangibly, and you see the results in your own lives.”

“We put women on the list and we place them in the highest political position in the country…. We are asking you to help elect Elisabeth Harper to Office of the Prime Minister on May 11

and put our women first.”

Roshini Boodhoo, a candidate on the PPP/C list took the stage and explained to the thousands gathered at Bath Tarmac, Bath Settlement that we all want a brighter future but “we can only achieve this under the PPP/C Government.”

She noted that “President

Newcomer on the PPP/C list of candidates, Roshini Boodhoo taking to the campaign platform yesterday (Photos by Adrian Narine)

‘We live what we say; we practise what we preach. We invest in our young people; we do it tangibly, and you see the results in your own lives” -- Priya Manickchand Donald Ramotar and Prime Ministerial Candidate for the PPP/C Elisabeth Harper are the only choices to steer our country in the path of peace and progress.” She reiterated that the PPP/C believes in the children of the country and their future. “They are not only telling us, they are showing us in their actions that is why I am here.”

“Be aware of your of past, you should be aware of happened so that we don’t make the same mistake again,” Boodhoo noted.

She said further, “look at our young ministers such as Priya Manickchand, Irfaan Ali, Dr Ashni Singh and one of the world’s youngest President’s in the world Dr Bharrat Jagdeo,” pointing out the many achievements of the PPP/C as they continue their investments in the

youths of the country.

TEAM OF FUTURE LEADERS Boodhoo concluded by noting that the PPP/C party has placed much emphasis on the achievements of the women of this country and “come May 11 a woman will take one of the highest offices in the country, Elisabeth Harper will be Prime Minister. Come out in your numbers and vote PPP/C and make this the team of the future leaders of Guyana.”

Region 5 rice farmer, Mohamed Rafeeoodeen said it is a privilege to join with the leadership of the winning party, the PPP/C. “It is my duty to remind all of you of the significance of May 11 and encourage and eduTurn to page 9 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Is GECOM trustworthy GIVEN that Elections are just days away, and since I will not be working with GECOM, I would like to share this concern of mine.

Having read the letter titled, “GECOM unfairly appointed Elections Clerks in Region 5” published in Guyana Times, I thought it best to share my experience with GECOM also.

I am still to be convinced as a young voter, whether or not I should vote in these elections. As a first time voter, I was excited to vote until I thought of this issue. My issue lies in trusting the body that will be conducting the elections. While, there are several observers watching what is going on, I believe what they are only getting what they want to hear from GECOM. The Chairman boost to them, Gecom is following international best practise. The goodly doctor needs to be reminded that the best practise does not include favourtism and nepotism.

The big question is: Is GECOM worthy of trusting?

This is an ideal time of reminding the Chief Elections Officer of his words as printed in Stabroek News on September,15, 2014. Here is an extract, just in case:

“ Favouritism, cronyism and nepotism will not be associated with the employment procedures being used by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

This was emphasised

by Keith Lowenfield, Chief Election Officer (CEO) during his address at the opening session of the twoday Training of Trainers Programme at the St Joseph High School on Saturday, September 13, 2014”

It would be good to define these words. Wikipedia defines as follows: * FAVORITISM: The practice of giving unfair preferential treatment to one person or group at the expense of another. * CRONYISM: The appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications. * NEPOTISM: The practice among those with power or influence of favouring relatives or friends, especially by giving them jobs.

To date, can you honestly say if GECOM has stuck to its words? In case you do not know, some of your officers employed their whole family, from son, to daughter, to in- laws to friends. Clearly, this

Someone is lying

HAMILTON Greene penned a letter in Stabroek News dated April 30, 2015. In the letter, he mentioned that before the PPP took office in 1992, the Security Forces had available during 1980-1990 the following:Three large Soviet made M18 helicopters Two Allouette French-made helicopters Two Bell 212 USA-made helicopters Two Bell 206 USA-made helicopters 1 Bell 412 USA-made helicopter Fixed-Wing fleet of the Security Forces One King Air Beach Craft (Executive Type) Three Islanders Two Sky Vans One Romania-made Aircraft (Tupolev Jet) Making it a total of 18 aircraft; he failed to mention the airworthiness of all the aircraft listed.

However, Lieutenant Colonel Cargill Kyte, appearing before the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry, mentioned that the GDF had in its possession 14 aircraft, with some being unknown for airworthiness. Kyte also recalled that two 206 Bell helicopters were sold between 1988 and 1991. He also disclosed that one SRGR aircraft was sold to Air Services Guyana in 1991.

It seems that someone is lying, and I choose to believe Kyte.

RAMJOHN MOHAMMED

contradicts your statement.

Check Region 6! Region 5, you are not alone! Let’s not even go to the issue of qualifications and favoritisms. Looking for evidence of your three big-words should not be hard, since this is a “transparent organisation” (a word used umpteen times in the training) and Guyana is to believe that you have honest officers who will tell you the truth. GECOM must admit in its employment procedures it is guilty of those 3 employment crimes. In some cases, family reporting to family. Is GECOM ok with a son reporting to a father. Can this not weaken the integrity of the process?

Worst yet, for the reference, I was one of the many who wasted our time spending two days of our time with the hope that we will be treated fairly in terms of employment.

We did not get jobs. But sadly, we did not know it was a family business. If only we knew, we would have not wasted our time.

In the future, I do not see the need to advertise and waste the tax payers money, just ask your staff and they will provide you with people to work. No need for outsiders.

I stopped chasing after GECOM for an E-Day job. After all, family and friends dominate the em-

ployment. I will never apply in the future. I wasted time and resources as follows: writing application (paper, ink, passage, time), contacting GECOM for training (telephone bill, travelling to collect letter), GECOM Training (Time), Anticipating a Reply (telephone bill), Checking to see if name was on employment list- this was terrible experience. There was no central list and I was advised to visit the various centres. From one to another.

I check about 5 in a hot and sweaty day. this was humiliating. GECOM made people look like beggars. Each stop cost money. It did not stop there. I called Georgetown several times, telephone bill again.

To all the intelligent working persons out there.

In your organisation who looks after employment – the Human Resource or the Personal Assistant to the CEO? Apparently in GECOM it is the latter. I was shocked to learn that I had to contact the Personal Assistant to know if I get through since he has the scores. I was told he gives directive on whom to get job. So what’s the use of the Human Resource section if the Personal Assistant can do that job? Why should the PA be tasked with employment when there is a HR section.

With all being said, I am now left a bit confused if I should vote. Will my

vote be treated the same way employment issues are being treated? It appears that some applications just disappear. Did the pool leaked?

In the training I know what happens up the statement of poll goes to the Returning Officer’s Office. Who in Headquarters is responsible for taking it after that, in terms of tabulations? Who oversee this activity? Are they, the same set of people who cannot account for all the exam scripts?

If simple things like employment there was little transparency – your officers said that only persons with 50% and over got through yet you cannot to date inform people of their scores if really they truly fail, isn’t transparent.

Imagine, GECOM is implying that even UG people can’t get 50% in that exam too. Worst yet, there was no letter sent to applicants who did not get through to explain why they did not get through. This is not transparency. Even worst, there was no submission of qualifications for your posts advertised. This is not transparency. In the future, stop telling John Public they need X amount of degrees and subjects, when in the true sense they don’t need anything since these are factors never taken into considerations for appointment.

Do it safe, anybody apply.

How can you realise what you set out to achieve?

As a young person, I wonder if I will ever get to work with GECOM given that there are some regular faces who are always selected, despite their age. It seems that they have reserved position waiting on them. I wonder what will happen to young people like myself.

There was been so much of concerns about GECOM employment practice yet no one addressed. At least the hard working PR Manager said nothing about it in the press.

Some media houses are known for its investigative abilities, maybe it’s time, they start looking into the operations at GECOM and help the public to understand what is really going on in there. The international community should not buy into the assurance of GECOM that they are following best practises.

Conduct your own investigation, I hope the political parties convince me in the coming days, that my vote is secured and the system is working to count is working fairly. It is not like their flawed employment system. Clearly, at this point GECOM cannot convince me. Was it too much to ask of GECOM to be transparent, fair and at least sticking to thier words?

Guyana Post-2020 WHILE all attention is being paid to May 11th (Elections Day in Guyana), it is important that we take a moment to remember that when that day comes and goes for this small nation, there are global items on our agenda that transcend the boundaries of any social or political conflict ever faced on this planet.

Anthropogenic climate change remains paramount on the global agenda, and this year will be a pivotal one. In Paris come December, 200 countries will make pledges towards the formation of a global climate change pact.

These pledges, or commitments called “Intended Nationally Determined

Contributions” (INDCs), represent an unprecedented initiative, where countries are asked to state exactly what role they intend to play in tackling this global problem. Thus far, 36 countries have revealed their INDCs, covering a total of 29% of global GHG emissions. Last year the USA and China made an historic move by announcing their long term climate goals. Their INDCs however, are still to be seen.

That being said, what role does Guyana intend to play on the global stage and what will our INDCs entail? INDCs as the term suggests, are nationally defined commitments. As such widespread consultations are expected to be conducted so

that everyone is on board with the plans that are set forth. This is essential and must include all political parties, since a change in Government must not affect the goals that are set out in 2015 nor the pursuance of a Post-2020 agenda (the global pact will be adopted in 2015 and come into effect in 2020).

Most persons by now should be aware of the LCDS and what it strives to achieve. But how will the LCDS be tapered so as to prepare Guyana’s INDCs? Will Guyana go it alone or will we seek an integrated CARICOM approach?

And how will our global commitments be structured to cater for the massive in-

flux of GHG emissions that Guyana will be accountable for should the numerous offshore oil explorations prove successful? Will that have a negative effect on the entire LCDS? These are all pertinent questions which we must seriously address as a nation if we wish to capitalise on financial avenues that should be made available to developing countries like Guyana once a Post-2020 agenda is adopted and ratified. Are there going to be nation-wide consultations leading up to the Paris meeting and will Guyana even produce a list of INDCs? MAHENDRA DORAISAMI

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

PRESIDENT RAMOTAR WARNS…

‘Be wary of Opposition machinations to undermine democratic process’

By Vanessa Narine ‘WE are with the PPP’, ‘We love you’, and a number of other slogans carried by many among thousands of supporters, who also held the symbolic ‘Cup’ in their hands, were part of what was an energetic exchange yesterday at Bath Settlement, in Region 5.

And matching the enthusiasm of supporters was the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic presidential candidate, Donald Ramotar, who fervently stressed that the task at hand is the building of Guyana.

“We have to build; this is the direction we have to go…. We have to create new opportunities for our people; to allow our people to have a higher standard of living. We have committed ourselves to doing more,” he assured the

PPP stalwart, Dr Roger Luncheon, is garlanded by one of the youngest at yesterday’s rally

‘We are a peaceful party... cate you on how important this election is for all of us.”

He related that “we know what took place prior to 1992 - it is important we know what was the condition of our schools and look at what we have now… look at housing all the PPP/C has transformed this sector and have given all Guyanese the opportunity to own their own home… “ “Look at the improvement to our infrastructure,” he stressed,” adding that “we could not have sold rice. I was placed three times in the lock-ups and the PPP/C has created the environment for us to enjoy our country.”

“The only progressive party to go back in power on May 11 is the PPP/C,” he urged all.

Gobin Singh, a senior member of the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) in Region 5, echoed the words of his colleagues, noting the achievements of the PPP/C Government.

He related that under this government he was able to acquire his own home and “many other young Guyanese in Region 5 and in Guyana have been able to acquire the same.”

He urged young people “to come out on May 11 and vote for the continued empowerment of our young people.”

Peter Ramsaroop, can-

gathering.

However, the incumbent Head of State warned that there is “one danger” to this plan; and as such he urged supporters to be wary of a repeat of tactics used by elements in the Political Opposition in past elections, which were not deemed free and fair.

“We have to defeat the machinations of the political Opposition,” he said, adding that there are signs that indicate that there are plans afoot to undermine the democratic process.

“We must say no to their machinations…there are different ways,” Mr Ramotar warned, in the same breath urging all eligible voters to ensure that their ballots are stamped by election day staff when they are handed to them to avoid a situation where Turn to page 10 ►

From page 7

The massive show of support at Bath Settlement yesterday

didate of the PPP/C, called on all persons gathered at Bath Settlement to vote for progress and vote for the PPP/C. He alluded to some

of the aspects of the manifesto, noting that the Deep Water Harbour that will be a reality here in Berbice will service many other countries

and “our farmers will be beneficiaries of this.”

He said with this project and the many more “we have in store for this

country” will create many jobs for our young people.

“With President Ramotar and Elisabeth Harper they will take us forward and

make this vision a reality - say no way the APNU +AFC (A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change).”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

‘Be wary of Opposition machinations...

The show of support for the PPP/C was undeniable at yesterday’s rally

From page 9

President Donald Ramotar greeting enthused supporters at Bath Settlement yesterday

President Donald Ramotar addressing thousands at yesterday’s rally

their ballots are rejected.

“We have alerted the Elections Commission and the international observers… we must ensure that there is no opportunity for the Opposition to do what they did in earlier elections,” he stressed.

Consequently, he repeated his appeal for due diligence by all Guyanese voters and supporters.

SAFEGUARD THE FUTURE The PPP/C presidential candidate urged voters to recognise also that May 11 is about safeguarding the future.

“We have to be careful with our future. We have to ensure that we win back the majority in Parliament,” he

said.

He waded into members of the alliance of A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) for exposing themselves as “hypocrites” who are pursing “power for the sake of power” and not with the interest of the Guyanese people at heart.

“We must guard and protect our gains and protect our future,” Mr Ramotar said.

He added, “We have one week more to go and we must win these elections. We must win it so we can safeguard your future…we are ready to make greater change, so we can enjoy a higher standard of living…to do that we have to deliver.”

The plans of the PPP/C,

as detailed in its manifesto, Guyana 2.0, outline the roadmap for “delivering” for the Guyanese people.

According to him, growth, job creation, generation of wealth, the boosting of the manufacturing and tourism, among sectors, a focus on food and energy security are plans that will be bolstered by several transformational infrastructural projects. Among those listed are the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), an all-weather road to linking Guyana to Brazil, bridges across the Corentyne River and a deep-water Habour at the mouth of the Berbice River.

2.0 is touted as an interconnected plan; a development thrust that will ensure growth on all fronts, supported by infrastructural advances, which will in turn see the generation of wealth, which will then support efforts to advance better quality of living for the Guyanese people.

“We want to build a strong and modern economy so we can modernise our country, so we can push our country forward… We have already started to do that.

Over the years, we have been creating the human capital for us to implement the plans that we have,” he said.

Mr Ramotar stated too that the ruling party has a track record of successes that it is proud of and that

represent a source of pride for the Guyanese people, in particular the strides made in the social sectors.

The political Opposition, he lamented, has “shut down” the efforts of his Administration, as was evidenced in three consecutive years of budget cuts.

President Ramotar said, “The APNU+AFC have over the last three years only demonstrated their capacity to destroy…we cannot afford to go back anymore in Guyana… they have exposed their cloven hooves… the road is only on forward and we must make sure that these people never get their hands on the state apparatus ever again.”

The political opposition

was dubbed not only anti-national, but also anti-people.

STAND WITH THE PPP/C “Can we trust them?” he asked. The thousands of supports responded “no” and the PPP/C presidential candidate stressed that “we have to keep them out.”

On that note, he appealed to the mammoth gathering to “stand with him” and “stand with the PPP/C” on May 11 at what is the most significant General and Regional Elections.

His message was reiterated by several other speakers and endorsed by party members and stalwarts who were present at yesterday’s rally, including Dr Roger Luncheon.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

7 DAYS TO GO…

Decisions and the fast-approaching line

By Vanessa Narine

THE proverbial die has been cast in more than one respect, with more than 7,000 ranks of the Disciplined Services having cast their votes on Saturday.

With seven days to go to the May 11 General and Regional Elections, by and large the ongoing election campaigns have been somewhat less than sober, with several reported incidents of less than acceptable behaviour from the overzealous.

May 11 is the day that the Guyanese people head to one of the most significant General and Regional Elections since 1992.

PROPOSAL AND PROMISES The manifestos, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Guyana 2.0 and the A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) “war plan” aim to tackle what they consider priority matters.

The ruling PPP/C proposes growth, job creation, generation of wealth, boosting of the manufacturing and tourism sectors, a focus on food and energy and security, among plans that will be bolstered by several transformational infrastructural projects. Among those listed are the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), an all-weather road linking Guyana to Brazil, bridges across the Corentyne and Demerara Rivers and a deep-water Habour at the mouth of the Berbice River. It is touted as an interconnected plan – a development thrust that will ensure growth on all fronts, supported by infrastructural advances, which will in turn see the generation of wealth, which will then support efforts to advance a better quality of living for

President Donald Ramotar

Brigadier (Ret’d) David Granger

the Guyanese people.

On the other hand, APNU+AFC plan has as its central themes: Healing and reconciliation; Governance; Constitutional Reform; Public Safety and Security; Women and Gender Equality; Youth Policy; Education; Health and Nutrition; Housing Policy; Sports and Recreation; Cultural Policy; Natural Resources and the environment; Agriculture; Hinterland Development; Tourism; Information & Communication Technology; Income Distribution; and Foreign Relations.

The highlights of the promises made are: the reduction of several forms of taxation, including Value Added Tax (VAT); an eventual increase of the personal income tax threshold to $100,000; all new public servants will be trained and must pass an examination of competence before being retained; constitutional reform that outlines new measures

under which persons are elected to the executive and how power is shared; and a dedicated policy for Region 10, with Linden touted as a “secondary administrative” centre of Guyana.

The smaller political parties, six altogether, are also engaged in making their last ditch appeal to advance its agenda for progress in Guyana.

UP FOR CONSIDERATION The messages from the campaign added to the manifestos have given Guyanese much food for thought.

Some of the messages did not stay at the civilian level as some of them made their way to the desk of the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) Media Monitoring Unit (MMU), while others haven’t – a point heard in the criticisms of the Unit and part of the basis for the

call for GECOM to have greater oversight of the Unit. Two reports have been released to date since its resuscitation on late February. The first was the basis of legal action advanced against former president Bharrat Jagdeo by a vocal critic of the current Administration, Christopher Ram. The matter had its first hearing at the Whim Magistrate Court, Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne) last month.

The incidents of unacceptable behaviour from the overzealous in the political arena has also factored into the list of considerations on the plate of the Guyanese people.

The most recent at Warlock, East Ruimveldt, was particularly disturbing. A PPP/C public meeting was interrupted by a band of APNU+AFC supporters. The political opposition’s ‘overzealous’ involved children and missiles were hurled at speakers, including party stalwart,

Dr Roger Luncheon.

Fortunately, if you discount these incidents, the politicians on the hustings have been earnestly and vociferously involved in expounding and exchanging comments on party policies, programmes and legislative agenda.

Given that stakeholders in the electoral process are in the homestretch run, these are being undertaken with greater fervour.

FOR THE SAKE OF CONTINUITY The homestretch sprint has attracted observers welcomed by Guyanese for validation of free and fair elections from international, as well as local, observer missions.

The Organisation of American States (OAS), the Carter Centre, the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the United Nations and the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) have accepted Central Government’s invitation to act as electoral observers.

Additionally, 10 local groups have indicated an interest in acting as election observers and include representatives from the United States Embassy, the British and Canadian High Commissions, the European Union (EU) country office, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Blue Caps, the International Republic Institute (IRI), the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) and the Electoral Assistance Bureau (EAB). The latter received the endorsement of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG).

According to GECOM, all observers, local and foreign, will be required to sign onto certain protocols before they are accredited as observers. Some observer groups already have a presence in Guyana.

GECOM has also assured that it is ready to go, a few operational kinks having been worked out after Saturday’s vote by the Disciplined Services.

All considered, for most the next week with be the shortest they have experienced, with their view that there is much to do and little time to do it; while for others it will be longer than usual, their perception of time tinged by anticipation.

GCCI launches sixth edition of Business Guyana Magazine – amid calls to generate excitement in economy locally, overseas

By Tajeram Mohabir THE sixth edition of the glossy Business Guyana Magazine was launched on Saturday, with Georgetown Chambers of Commerce (GCCI) President Lance Hinds calling for excitement in the local economy to be generated both inside and outside of Guyana.

The mandate of the Chamber is to advocate policies, stimulate trade and investment, connect businesses, sustain economic

growth, and expand member opportunities, with the aim of contributing to a stable and sustainable economic and social environment in Guyana, wherein businesses can prosper.

Speaking at the launch at the Pegasus Hotel, Hinds said the magazine is a manifestation of the Chamber’s overall mission.

“It is based on the belief that credible information and guidance is critical to decision-making about investment, whether foreign or

domestic,” he said.

The informative publication touches on a number of areas, including getting the most out of social media for businesses, the forestry sector, the changing role of the private sector, and the real estate enterprise.

“The magazine, as always, is designed to be easy but extremely informative and authoritative reading, providing enough to stimulate and excite, with a comprehensive view of Guyana’s economy, along with the

perspectives of the private sector and Government,” the business executive said.

The GCCI believes that, conceptually, the private sector must continue to expand significantly in order for the economy to deliver the revenue, wealth, and job creation critical to the nation’s future.

ENABLING ENVIRONMENT Hinds told the gathering of private sector officials at the launch that, to facilitate Turn to page 15 ►

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Mr James Quinn, exchanges a handshake with Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President, Mr Lance Hinds, at the unveiling of the Business Guyana Magazine

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Let’s be real WE’VE got to see two things happen in this nation for us to really move forward in harmony, good sense and cooperative togetherness.

First, the Opposition owes it to this nation to admit, acknowledge and tell the story of Guyana’s amazing transformation over the past 23 years. The fact is that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) did a stunning job of pulling us out of the sad doldrums that the People’s National Congress (PNC) left us in after 28 years of socio-economic devastation.

The Opposition’s got to exercise the magnanimous, humane and authentic leadership we need from it, with an objective, rational and open attitude towards Guyanese. The Opposition must respect the freely and fairly elected Government, demonstrate a willingness to put our national development first, ahead of its lust for power, and exercise discipline to play its role with responsible leadership.

Second, the Government’s got to embrace sensible Opposition leadership, making space for the viewpoint and contribution of Opposition leaders to the national conversation.

In President Donald Ramotar, we see Government open and ready to do exactly this, to bring on board all national stakeholders in the

task of our development as a 21st century nation.

Government works hard to maintain and cultivate a democratic atmosphere in this country, and a free, unrestrained national private media setup gives ready and easy access to all and sundry who oppose Government. So the Opposition’s got a strong, vociferous national voice, on TV, in the two biggest circulated daily newspapers, online and through social media.

In fact, the Opposition drowns out Government’s efforts to shape the national conversation and social space. That’s why we see this blessed, pastoral, peaceful, progressive land so stooped in negativity and division and strife, because the Opposition controls the national conversation, negatively impacting even folks within Government, the ruling party and public servants.

Government must, in fact, develop its ability to equal or surpass the Opposition’s efficiency in filling the Guyanese social landscape with its viewpoint and mindset.

President Ramotar knows the shortcomings of our society. The President leads a Government that cultivates an attitude of humble service, and he’s said on national TV that Government doesn’t have all the answers, and it would take the entire human capital of our nation to achieve our great, legendary

potential.

After the 2011 National and Regional Elections, we saw a complete breakdown of Government-Opposition relations, and it’s imperative that we examine what caused such an unworkable national atmosphere.

Any rational, objective mind would see that the Opposition performed the worst possible role it could, in stymying national development.

What stands out with stark revelation is the Opposition’s role in reducing Guyana to an international financial pariah, with the non-passage in the Majority 10th Parliament of the Anti-Money Laundering Bill.

Guyana became one of a handful of countries, joining such international outcasts as Somalia and North Korea, to not sign on to the international laws against the financing of terrorism.

This grotesque action of the Opposition, along with its stifling of the expansion of the international airport, its railroading of the hydro-electric project of Government, and its slashing of the Amerindian Development Fund and tuition funding for the University of Guyana, reveal just how unworkable the Opposition set out to be, deliberately.

One scratches one’s head in vain to objectively excuse the Opposition’s action, especially knowing what a servant-leader President

Ramotar is turning out to be.

The President is growing in the job as President, evolving into an outstanding national leader, rising above the frays and factions and in-fighting that so bedevils this country.

Opposition folks would dismiss these things without even thinking on them, claiming the Chronicle publishes this column as an apology for the President, bashing the Opposition. So crass and irrational are these Opposition leaders, that any straight-forward, objective, sensible discussion with them, any sort of talk that respects Government and President Ramotar, stirs their anger and hatred and blank-stare disengagement.

The PPP’s history as the premier political force in our nation includes it having to constantly design strategies to overcome opposition to its work, from the independent national media.

Dr Cheddi Jagan’s battle in the 1950’s and 1960’s mirrors what goes on today.

Back then the PPP propelled serious development in Guy-

ana, only to see international geopolitical powers work with internal organs, including the private media, to stymie its contribution to the Guyanese nation.

The excuse back then was that the PPP’s ideology as a communist, USSR-aligned party could not be allowed to rule a Caribbean country, and a member of the Commonwealth.

Now, however, such ideological concerns don’t matter.

Yet, we see the exact same instinct at play, where the Diplomatic Corp works with internal organs, including the national private media and certain political leaders, to cause an unworkable national atmosphere for the PPP/C. This is grotesque and unfair to the PPP/C, which has done so much positive and good for our nation.

The way we treated late former President, Janet Jagan, is a graphic symbol of how we treated the Party that she sacrificed her life for, her building and cultivating a political force representing the

working class, the poor, the disadvantaged, as a political voice for the socio-economic wellbeing of Guyanese.

With a deep historical sense of its place in our history, and its struggles over the decades for social justice, democracy and economic development, the PPP knows what it faces. It has developed an instinctive reaction to this constant attack upon its performance.

As in the 1950’s and 1960’s, we see it rapidly developing the socio-economic wellbeing of Guyanese in the 1990’s and 2000’s, only to face tremendous opposition from internal forces like the private media and opposition parties, and criticism from the diplomatic corp.

These things the Opposition would do well to dwell on, to understand and to exercise empathetic leadership on, in working with the Government of President Ramotar to accelerate the stunning development we’ve experienced over the past two decades.

Guyana set to become upper middle-income country

By Tajeram Mohabir BRITISH High Commissioner to Guyana, James Quinn says that while Guyana has enjoyed nine years of consecutive growth, it should not become complacent, urging the country’s leadership to build on the gains it has made.

Guyana has over the past eight years enjoyed an annual growth of over four per cent.

Speaking at the launch of the sixth edition of the Guyana Business Magazine, High Commissioner Quinn said Guyana, a lower middle income country, is set to overtake Belize and move into the upper middle income category.

This, he said, is a significant development but it is important that Guyana continues on the upward

trajectory, creating more wealth and encouraging more investment into the country.

--British High Commissioner to Guyana

ABIDE BY LOCAL REGULATIONS The diplomat said investors need to know that they can get the help they need and the investment climate needs to be supportive, but should not be a free pass as they should abide by local regulations.

CORRUPTION However, he warned about corruption, pointing out that though it cannot be prevented, those who are found guilty should be punished.

The High Commissioner also called on local politicians to work together to pass the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the

British High Commissioner to Guyana, James Quinn

Financing of Terrorism Bill at the earliest after the May 11 Regional and General Elections.

“No one wants Guyana to be blacklisted,” he said, noting that he welcomes efforts

by Guyana to tackle corruption, but urged all to remain vigilant against persons who want to do bad things.

On a different note, he said the United Kingdom (UK) is open to expanding trade with Guyana, and encouraged businesspersons with queries to visit the local British High Commission office.

The UK has always been a valuable market for Guyana. Guyana exports twice as much to the UK than it imports from the UK.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

PPP/C in Marginal Lead – according to latest NACTA Poll AN ongoing tracking opinion poll being conducted by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) is showing a close race between the ruling PPP/C and the Opposition APNU-AFC, with the incumbent party just marginally ahead.

The PPP is facing its toughest election ever in its electoral history, with a significant percentage of traditional PPP supporters splitting their vote to the Opposition, while traditional PNC supporters are cheering for their party to vote out the PPP. The poll finds that voters are sharply divided by race in how they will vote, which party (alliance) they want to win, and in their views on which party they feel will (and want to) win the May 11 general elections. Almost every African and Mixed feel the Opposition PNC-led coalition will win while most Indians, Chinese and Whites

‘Most Indians & Amerindians express a fear of the Opposition resurrecting national service, ban essential goods, seize farming produce, control trade, currency restrictions, property devaluation, and reintroduce government owned businesses that will squeeze out privately owned businesses, among other concerns’

‘The poll finds very little cross-racial voting among Africans for PPP. While Indians are splitting their vote, Africans are lining up solidly behind the PNC (APNU)’ feel the PPP will (and want to) win. Amerindians are divided with some saying PPP will win, some saying the Opposition coalition will win, and the others saying it is too close to call. Overall, the largest group of respondents in the latest poll feel the election is too close to call, describing it as 50-50.

Among those Indians who say the election is too close, they want the PPP to win. And among those Africans who say the election is too close to call, they want the coalition (many calling it the PNC) to win. Amerindians who say the election is too close to call want the PPP to win. And in fact, the findings reveal a majority of Amerindians are supporting the PPP and want it to win.

They say the PPP has done a

lot for them since 1992 while they suffered under the PNC prior to 1992.

The findings of the latest NACTA poll, conducted over the last week, are obtained from interviews with 480 voters (42 per cent Indians, 31 per cent Africans, 17 per cent Mixed, nine per cent Amerindians, and one per cent other races) of the population.

The poll was conducted in face-to-face interviews to reflect the demographics of the population and was coordinated by New York-based pollster Dr Vishnu Bisram who has been conducting opinion polls in Guyana for the last 25 years. The results of the poll were analysed at a 95 per cent significance level with a statistical sampling error of plus or minus four

New York-based pollster, Dr Vishnu Bisram

percentage points.

The election has become close because a significant number of disgruntled Indians are breaking from their traditional voting pattern, angry with the PPP for neglecting them and for various other reasons, saying they will cast ballot for the Opposition coalition. It is not a pro-coalition vote but an angry anti-PPP vote because they want to teach the ruling party a lesson. If Indians were to return to the fold, the PPP will eke out a

narrow victory.

Analogously, the poll finds very little cross-racial voting among Africans for PPP. While Indians are splitting their vote, Africans are lining up solidly behind the PNC (APNU). And those Indians who are supporting the coalition continue to make the distinction that they are voting for the AFC component of the coalition and not APNU. Most Indians and Amerindians, as well as most of the sprinkling of Whites and Chinese, say they are voting for the PPP because the coalition is rife with PNC officials who were connected to the atrocities committed during the PNC dictatorship. They express a fear of resurrection of national ser-

vice, ban of essential goods, seizure of farming produce, control of trade, currency restrictions, property devaluation, and reintroduction of government owned businesses that will squeeze out privately owned businesses, among other concerns. A large majority of voters say they do not want a repeat of the abuses that took place when the PNC was in office.

Asked which party or alliance they think will win the election, 35% say PPP/C, 34% the coalition, 24% “too close to call”, and 7% no response.

Voters were also queried on other issues and how they intend to vote.

The findings will be released in a subsequent report.

Norman McLean is new GMSA president THE new Board of Directors of the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) has elected retired Major General Norman McLean as President of the association for fiscal year 2015 - 2016.

He succeeds Clinton Williams, who has completed a two-term stint, which is the consecutive limit prescribed by the GMSA’s Articles of Association, a press release stated.

Mr. McLean himself had previously served as President of the then Guyana Manufacturers Association (GMA) during the 1990s.

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. McLean noted his long history with the association, reminding members that he had in the past worked assiduously to ensure that the GMA was adequately meeting and surpassing the needs of its membership.

He said he was happy to head the association again at this time when its record of recent achievements is good.

New GMSA President, Norman Mclean

He thanked the Board for the confidence reposed in him and asked members to continue to work together in order to meet the goals the association has set itself.

These goals include revisiting and re-calibrating the GMSA’s Strategic Plan in keeping with the changing needs of member companies.

Mr. McLean brings to the GMSA considerable experience in human resource development and operations management.

In recent years, the former Chief of Staff of the

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has been working on the ‘winding up’ process for the now defunct Omai Gold Mines.

He has transferred these considerable skills into his consultancy with ETK Sand Springs, an expatriate gold and mineral mining company which is currently preparing to commence operations in Guyana.

Mr. McLean also serves as Company Secretary of the Bosai Bauxite Mining Company.

GRATITUDE Outgoing GMSA President, Clinton Williams expressed his own gratitude for the unstinting support he received from the board and membership throughout his two-year terms, first served in 2010–2012.

Williams noted that he is vacating the office with the finances in the healthiest state it has been in for some years, and will continue to work with the GMSA in his

new capacity, the immediate past president and sub-sector co-ordinator.

The GMSA held its twopart Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 10th and 30th respectively. The first session is usually held to discuss the audited accounts and to elect the core members of the Board of Directors. This new board later attends Part II of the AGM to elect the president and identify the members who would head the sub-sectors, specified areas on the manufacturing/services landscape which the GMSA oversees.

These sub-sectors are construction and engineering, services, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, agriculture and agro-processing, forestry and wood products, fast foods and minerals and related industries.

The board also selects the members who would manage the affairs of the main Standing Committees which include international trade and investment, policy and

legislation, and governance and security.

DIRECTORS The Board of Directors 2015 - 2016 are Norman McLean (President); Ramsay Ali of Sterling Products Limited (1st Vice President); Eon Caesar of Safeway Security (2nd Vice President); Malisa Nokta of Environmental Management Consultants (3rd VP/Treasurer); Clinton Williams of Guyana National Industrial Company (Immediate Past President); Autamaram Lakeram of National Milling Company; Mark Bender of TCL Guyana Limited; Raymond Ramsaroop of Edward Beharry Group of Companies; Peter Pompey of Brass, Aluminum & Cast Iron Foundry; Clement Duncan of Swansea Associates; Yonette Jeffers of Laparkan Freight Forwarders; Mohindra (Neil) Chand of Barama Company; Ramesh Dookhoo of Banks DIH Limited; and Luanna Persaud of Qualfon.

The GMSA is one of the

three major business support organisations in Guyana and it is now in its 51st year of existence.

Mr. McLean has held numerous portfolios, including being at the helm of the now defunct Guyana National Service (GNS), a paramilitary institution that was inaugurated in 1974 and provided military training for, and the orientation of, thousands of Guyanese.

Mr. McLean was initially the second-in-command to Brigadier Clarence Price before assuming the top post of Director-General during 1974-79.

He was also directly responsible for design, planning and implementation of the national youth programme. His portfolio further enabled him to aid in the development of the talents of young people with an aim of enhancing their growth to satisfy the mandate towards the establishment of a morally efficient nation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Jagdeo puts to rest fibre-optic hullabaloo – reasons more cables will mean cheaper, faster Internet

By Gary Eleazar ANOTHER fibre-optic cable bringing bandwidth into Guyana can only drive up competition, lowering the price paid for the service by Guyanese consumers, whether it’s for Internet connection on a personal computer, tablet, smartphone or even industrial purposes.

The more cables into the country, the cheaper bandwidth can be sold is essentially the argument of former President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

He, for the first time this past week since his three-year

to Jagdeo, those persons who would have received free laptops under the One Laptop Per Family Programme (OLPF), another of the projects initiated under his watch to complement Government’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) drive.

“The contract was awarded to several Guyanese companies to lay cable before I left office.”

Jagdeo said selling bandwidth from the Government’s fibre-optic cable to Guyanese at the time would have been for about $500 per a mega-byte, more than three

posal which modified the original plan somewhat.

“They would probably put ... maybe bury the cable in conduits, which might be different; cost more,” he said.

MONOPLOY Turning his attention to what he called the issue of a “monopoly on this cable,” the former president said, “That’s not true; I thought everyone would celebrate anyone who wants to bring in a cable.”

Jagdeo said that GT&T had landed a fibre-optic cable in Guyana, “but they are the only supplier of fibre-optic

Jagdeo said in some countries, they operate as much as 20 cables. “The more cables we get,” he reasoned, “the lower the cost of bandwidth.”

This means cheaper Internet services, he said, adding that what more cables will also mean is that “We can move to 4G applications quickly.”

The President, in explaining the technical jargon, “4G application,” pointed to the fact that this would allow a person to comfortably stream a movie live on smart-phone.

“It will change the landscape in Guyana, right now the cost of bandwidth is too high, because we only have a single cable,” said Jagdeo, in reference to the GT&T owned infrastructure.

He again criticised the GT&T service, saying at present in Guyana, “you can’t get enough bandwidth to even stream properly.”

The former president said he suspects if there were more private persons willing to invest their monies to land a fibre-optic cable in Guyana

to supply internet service at a competitive rate, “the Government will give you permission too.”

fact that the President’s son heads up the project, right down to its necessity and impact.

HULLABALOO AGAIN Jagdeo told the media if there is a supplier that can sell bandwidth cheaper than GT&T the country benefits.

“As many cables as we can bring in would be good for the country, so why, why is this big hullabaloo again [over] this cable.”

He conceded that the cable was not laid properly and as such encountered problems, “but it is being fixed and there are others who will bring in cable.”

Jagdeo said the opening up of the telecommunications sector will be a national good, something that has seen GT&T, consistently over the years seeking to block Government’s ICT initiatives.

The Government’s fibre-optic cable in recent times has also become an elections hot topic; its cost, woes, the

SCANDAL Jagdeo is an executive member of the PPP/C and his party this past week caused to be published in the local media, full- page advertisements purporting to depict a scandal and an on-going campaign to paint Government, the party and its leaders as being corrupt through “unsubstantiated and malicious allegations carried as stories.”

It accuses the privately owned Kaieteur News and Stabroek News.

But would both Jagdeo and the PPP/C’s pronouncement’s leave unanswered questions still adrift, more so in face of the recently publicised contract document between Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, on behalf of Government and Faisal Mohamed on behalf of Dax Contracting Services?

GCCI launches sixth edition of Business...

Then President, Bharrat Jagdeo, along with the GT&T hierarchy at the landing of that company’s submarine fiber-optic cable in Guyana back in 2010

hiatus from the local public spotlight, addressed the now hotly debated Government-owned fibre-optic cable and supporting infrastructure, a project he initiated as his “last engagement.”

FREE WI-FI Jagdeo met with a contingent from the local media corps on Thursday last at his Party’s Freedom House headquarters, and was grilled on a range of issues still current in public debate, and initiated under his tenure.

On the matter of the US multi-million-dollar fibre-optic project, Jagdeo told media operatives: “The cable was supposed to bring cheaper bandwidth into our country for the E-governance project, and for our roll-out of free Wi-Fi (wireless Internet connection) to the public across Guyana.”

The beneficiaries would have also included, according

times lower than the more than $2000 Guyana Telephone and Telephone Company (GT&T) was charging for the same amount of data transfer.

“That was the purpose of the project,” Jagdeo told media operatives before briefing them on the developments since.

CRITICAL REPORTAGE The cable has been the focus of critical reportage over the years, and while the former president concedes problems with the laying of the cable in some sections, he insists things are being blown out of proportion.

He said the complaints range from difficult terrain to unforgiving weather which led, in part, to the cable being damaged, “so that the Government needed to spend some money on repairing the cable.”

Jagdeo said he was briefed and told that there was a pro-

bandwidth now to Guyana.”

Digicel, the nation’s other telecommunications giant, has also been granted permission to land a fibre-optic cable in Guyana, Jagdeo reminded.

He said that with a third cable being landed in Guyana (now to be pursued under a joint venture with local and Venezuelan partner) “this fibre-optic cable will allow them to pass traffic [data] from northern Brazil, through Guyana, to North America.”

REDUNDANCY In his engagement with the media corps, Jagdeo explained that in northern Brazil, there are concerns, since there is only a singular route for its data traffic through Venezuela, and as such there is also interest in redundancy in the system as an essential backup. “But we don’t only need three cables,” according to the former President.

this growth, it is critical that there exists a supporting enabling environment that is a reflection of how businesses function in the 21st Century.

The GCCI believes that it is no longer enough to ask and nudge for the desired business environment, and accordingly has begun to develop a series of policy inputs to articulate what precisely it would like this environment to look like.

To this end, the chamber has developed a blueprint for an economic framework that it thinks would be instrumental in its overall effort. This framework focuses on the following pillars: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Small-Medium Enterprises Growth and Expansion, Investment/Funding, Information Communication Technology (ICT) 4D, and Overall Growth and Wealth Creation.

Hinds also said it has been a challenging year on some fronts. He noted that international commodity prices have once again caused a contraction in pro-

duction in the agriculture and mining sectors.

On that point, in his ‘Opening Notes’ in the magazine, he stressed that the chamber cannot over emphasise the need for policy and initiatives to diversify the economy.

Hinds, Chief Executive Officer of Brain Street, a leading information and communication technology (ICT)-based firm on Albert Street, Queenstown, called on all stakeholders to ensure that the faith shown in the economy is rewarded, and the excitement is generated both inside and outside of Guyana.

DESERVING OF PRAISE He praised those companies that continue to push expansion of their products, telling the gathering of private sector executives that their efforts are admirable, and that, as business stakeholders, they all have a responsibility to ensure that the investments are secured.

The business executive said the sixth edition of the

From page 11

Business Guyana Magazine is particularly special for the chamber, as it was published during the observance and celebration of the 125th anniversary of the chamber as a private sector organisation, the oldest in Guyana.

“This publication would not be possible without the support of our advertisers, many of whom I believe have supported this magazine since its inception.

On behalf of the chamber, I thank you for your continued support.

“Let me also take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the contributors who submitted articles for this magazine.

It is the high standard of your content that drives the continued success of our magazine,” he said.

The sponsors of the publication are Digicel Guyana, Guyana Oil Company Limited, Bank of Nova Scotia, Metro Guyana, Silvie’s General Store, Impressions, and Games Xpress.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Who will speak for Indians?

By Swami Aksharananda THE present PNC-WPA outfit has a significant number of African intellectuals, scholars, and activists who are quite vociferous when it comes to “ethnic honour,” and for whom the “furtherance and defence of African Guyanese interests,” is an important plank in their political and public life.

What is more, this group of individuals seeks to connect “ethnic interests” with “national interests,” and I agree there is nothing inherently contradictory in this thinking.

My concern, as I have been pointing out, is the asymmetry in this position when it comes to Indians. Somehow, Indian ethnic interest has been presented as diametrically opposed to national interest.

Of course, the counter-argument could be made that it is Indians themselves who must make this argument, who must speak for themselves, who must represent themselves.

But as we have seen, throughout the last sixty years or so, whenever any Indian attempts to do so, he is grounded in the dust and destroyed.

Further, because of the systematic conditioning to which Indians have been subjected, there is nothing that

Swami Aksharananda an Indian fears most in Guyana than being called a racist, which is the label for those who dare to speak their truth. It follows that there is nothing an Indian is not prepared to do just not be labelled a racist, even to the point of purging himself of his ethnic identity. This has been the dominant narrative in Indian politics in Guyana.

African intellectuals, however, have no such inhibition.

One recalls the near hysteria that was created when the name of Mr Moses Nagamootoo, later to be anointed ‘Brother Moses Nagamootoo’, was proposed as the presidential candidate for the yet to be formed coalition.

No one could fail to see the argument that was advanced on the basis of ethnic honour why he would not be acceptable to Africans. When African ethnic honour was invoked, those who dared to make the suggestion

were effectively silenced and made to see the light.

A major concern for many Indians in Guyana with respect to the coalition is who in the coalition will speak for Indians?

Because of the presence and prominence of Mr. Nagamootoo in the coalition, the argument has been made that Indians who voted for the AFC in 2011 and those voting for the same party now, “would be voting for someone of their own ethnic group.”

If this someone is referring to Mr Nagamootoo, then here is the dilemma that the Indians will face. Apart from the fact that he does not have the credentials to be a spokesperson for Indians, at least in the same category as the African ethnic activists, Mr Nagamootoo clearly does not see himself in this role. Because of the brand of Marxism practised in the PPP that he has inherited he seems quite averse to being labelled an Indian activist in any way. Unlike many African activists and politicians who have been able to creatively reconcile their ethnic politics with Marxism as they understood it, the Marxist ideologues in the PPP, including Mr Nagamootoo, chose to “ignore or discard their ethnic identity and interests.”

Clearly, then, those Indians who are busy abbreviating, hyphenating, punctuating, ignoring, discarding and denying their

ethnic identity cannot be trusted to speak for Indians. The most they may do is to use the cover-all phrase “our supporters,” as is their habit. In any case, it is the Indians of Guyana who

freed? Whose ethnic preference is to be shattered? The logic of this statement is clear.

The Africans will maintain the status quo and assert their ethnic preference. It is the Indians

abandoned Indians to the PPP, and have done everything in their power to reinforce fear and mistrust.

If there is as much disenchantment of Indians with

‘One recalls the near hysteria that was created when the name of Mr Moses Nagamootoo, later to be anointed ‘Brother Moses Nagamootoo’, was proposed as the presidential candidate for the yet to be formed coalition. No one could fail to see the argument that was advanced on the basis of ethnic honour why he would not be acceptable to Africans. When African ethnic honour was invoked, those who dared to make the suggestion were effectively silenced and made to see the light’-- Swami Aksharananda have to decide who should represent their ethnic interest. This cannot be an imposition certainly not by any person or persons outside the Indian community, no matter what is the political expediency.

Mr Nagamootoo’s position on the ethnic question can be better understood by analysing his recent brazen claim that “we” will break the “Berlin Wall of ethnic preference.” Before examining this assertion, it would be fair to say that this is a wall that he himself spent fifty years constructing and zealously guarding, while at the same time being its prisoner.

Who is behind the wall as far as Mr Nagamootoo is concerned? And, who is to be

who are called upon to give up their ethnic preference.

Regardless of the constant boast of unity, the coalition has nothing to do with ethnic unity. It is merely an expediency hastily contrived to remove the PPP from office, which can only be done if Africans stay with the PNC and Indians abandon the PPP. Talking about sacrifice, this is the sacrifice Indians are called upon to make.

Instead of seeking to fabricate an artificial coalition and depending on defectors so to speak, the PNC should have sought to reach out to Indians.

I have not seen anything that the PNC has done in recent times to win the confidence of Indians. They have actually

the PPP as they claim, then they have lost an opportunity which may not comeback in a hurry. If Indians entertain a fear that the today’s PNC is no different from the one of the past, then the present leadership has done nothing to disavow the Indians of this feeling. Can anyone blame Indians, then, if they fear that they will get more of the same from the PNC? In conclusion, to quote from the Hitopadesha, that offending text that caused so much consternation among foes and friend alike the last time I referred to it, one does not have to proclaim that one is a brahmin or chamar.

One’s actions speak loud and clear enough.

At Rotary Club of Stabroek lecture...

Dr. Misir delivers dynamic, informative health presentation

LAST Wednesday evening at the Pegasus Hotel in Guyana, Dr. Prem Misir delivered a dynamic and informative health presentation on his book ‘HIV AND AIDS KNOWL EDGE AND STIGMA IN GUYANA’, to the Rotary Club of Stabroek. The University of the West Indies (UWI) Press was the publisher of this book.

Dr. Misir indicated that data collection has already commenced in expanding the research documented in this book into an international study to include Guyana, Caribbean, Suriname, and Fiji, focusing on HIV and AIDS knowledge and stigma among adolescents.

The book’s focus is on adolescents, specifically high school students. Why the focus on adolescents? In answer to this question, Dr. Misir pointed out that recently, adolescents and young people within the 15 to 24 age group globally account for 40% of all new infections in adults.

This concern relates to the perception that many adults

--on his book, ‘HIV & AIDS Knowledge & Stigma among Adolescents’

in Guyana and elsewhere were graduating from HIV to an AIDS status in their twenties, implying that they would have contracted HIV in their adolescent years, given that the median time from HIV to AIDS is 9.4 years.

In addition, this book on adolescence came out at a timely moment when the World Health Organisation (WHO) in collaboration with UNICEF, UNFPA, UNESCO, and the GNP+, presented a publication that brings adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) closely under the radar for HIV test-

ing and counselling, treatment and care; the overview to this publication indicated that: “Adolescents (10–19 years) and young people (20–24 years) continue to be vulnerable, both socially and economically, to HIV infection despite efforts to date. This is particularly true for adolescents - especially girls - who live in settings with a generalised HIV epidemic or who are members of key populations at higher risk for HIV acquisition or transmission through sexual transmission and injecting drug use. In 2012, there were approximately 2.1 million adolescents living with HIV. About one-seventh of all new HIV infections occur during adolescence.”

Dr. Misir also used a cross-sectional study design with a purposive sample of high school students from 15 high schools in Guyana, to measure their HIV and AIDS knowledge and stigma-related attitudes and their

Dr. Prem Misir relationships among gender, age, religious groups, and ethnicity. High school students scored a moderate level of HIV and AIDS knowledge.

They had knowledge about modes of HIV transmission; symptoms of HIV and AIDS; about 50% of them saw a blood donor as being at risk of contracting HIV; and about 20% of the students believed in myths and misconceptions on HIV and AIDS. This study also revealed gaps in HIV and AIDS knowledge and stigma–related attitudes.

Misir’s presentation included univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses of the data. Under the univariate analysis, he noted

that there was no difference between male and female students on knowledge as well as on stigma-related attitudes; the older age group showed greater knowledge; and about 40% of students showed stigma-related attitudes. Under the bivariate analysis, students in different religious groups and in different ethnic groups showed differences in knowledge and in stigma-related attitudes. The multivariate analysis using logistic regression analyses found that religious groups were significant predictors of HIV and AIDS knowledge as well as stigma-related attitudes.

Rotarians of the club thanked Dr. Misir for his presentation on such an important public health issue that affects not only populations in Guyana but globally. In attendance were also medical students from the Texila American University, representatives from CARICOM, National Public Health Ref-

erence Laboratory, and the Office of the President.

Dr. Misir’s presentation was made possible by the Rotary Club of Stabroek and Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar Samantha Henry. Rotary comprises of business and professional persons working together globally in humanitarian work, and to construct goodwill and peace.

The Royal Society for Public Health in England recently elected Dr. Prem Misir as a fellow of the Royal Society of Public Health.

Professor Misir is a Visiting Professor in Public Health and Primary Care at Fiji National University and the Executive Director of the Health Sector Development Unit, Ministry of Health, Government of Guyana. He is the former Pro–Chancellor of the University of Guyana and currently teaches Research Methodology and Biostatistics with the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN ICT…

Mellisa Layne is into management – of Guyana’s spectrum resources

undertake by career fairs, symposiums and other forms of advertisements.

She said she is self-driven to success and will work hard and long to attain the goals she has set even though it will not be easy.

Her dream is to some day soon establish an opendoor computer centre where

Mellisa Layne

MEET the lovely Mellisa Layne, an Engineer II at the National Frequency Management Unit (NMFU), where she has been for the past year-anda-half.

She describes the ICT field as one that is very interesting and limitless in which telecommunications is developing and growing.

Layne said her job entails management of the spectrum resources of the country with two other colleagues but finds it very interesting and challenging as an exciting career.

This enterprising young woman has her mind set on achieving her MBA in Computer Science at Nations University and has completed six months with another six to go.

Layne told this publication that in the ICT field you can build from one area to another in rapid succession because it has so much to offer. Therefore, she is encouraging more girls and young women to pursue careers in that field which she deems as very rewarding.

The 26-year-old said she wanted to become a journalist after completing work-study at National Communications Network (NCN) but was encouraged

by her father to venture into ICT and she did and today is quite pleased the way things turned out for her.

Layne holds a degree in Computer Science from the University of Guyana (UG) and is pursuing a one-year course to attain her Masters at a private university.

She is also skilled in Adobe Suite Design and website and web technology development, among other computer-related skills.

MULTITUDE OF CAREERS Layne is challenging more girls and women to enter in the ICT field since it has a multitude of careers to offer but there is a need for more resources where more open-door computer centres can be set up for youths for free usage.

She stated that for girls and women to become interested in ICT they must first be introduced to the possibilities so they can become interested in technology, pointing out that they need to have their appetite stirred.

NEED FOR CAREER FAIRS Layne said there is also the need for more awareness among our youths to highlight the careers they can

youths can visit and be educated free of cost.

Layne spends a lot of time volunteering in ICT and is also a part-time Computer Training Manager at Global Technology and noted that marriage is not on the horizon for her just yet since she wants to fulfill her father’s wishes of first getting her Masters.

She told this newspaper that the ICT arena can

change your life for the better since it has so much to offer and girls and women can make use of the opportunities to enhance their lives.

Originally from a small village on the Essequibo Coast called Aberdeen, Layne now resides at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and comes from a very close knit family of three sisters and parents.

There is also another side to Layne - she is an excellent cook and enjoys preparing sumptuous dishes and always has an open mind to try newer recipes.

She spends a lot of time in the kitchen and also likes to meet people and socialize and hopes that more girls and women would embrace technology instead of being afraid to enter the sector.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

President marvels at Re tremendous economic

--urges residents to prepare to reap the sweet, once P

President Donald Ramotar addressing the large crowd at Lethem, in Region Nine the North, South and Central what has been taking place THERE is great economic Rupununi at Rodeo Ground, in our country,” the President potential in Region Nine Lethem, who gathered to meet said, adding, “And over the (Upper Takutu-Upper Es- and show support for a return next five years, we have more sequibo), and the People’s of the incumbent Government plans… Here can become Progressive Party/Civic at the upcoming polls. a centre for creating highOutlining major develop- er-paying jobs for our coun(PPP/C), once re-elected, will capitalise on this ment plans the incumbent Gov- try; and that is why the PPP/C to raise the standard of ernment has in store for Guyana Government has focused on living of the region’s peo- and Region Nine specifically, preparing people to capitalise, ple, President Donald Ra- the Head of State urged the by providing free education, motar reassured residents people of the Rupununi to pre- from nursery to secondary, there during a visit to the pare for the highly-skilled jobs and technical education, as and opportunities for economic well for those who did not Rupununi on Saturday.

The President was at ventures that will be created complete the formal system.” the time addressing hun- through planned investments.

“The Rupununi and Region TECHNICAL INSTITUTE dreds of people from more than 50 communities in Nine is just a microcosm of On this note, the President

President Donald Ramotar holds aloft the cup, specially made by a Region Nine resident areas that we should generate All this will be underannounced that the Governelectricity from. We are also taken, “so that Guyana can ment plans erecting a technilooking at other hydro electric become a maritime hub, cal institute in Region Nine possibilities,” he said. where Brazil and other South to equip persons with the American countries can do necessary technical skills to HYDRO-ELECTRICITY provide support services to international trade via GuyThe President disclosed ana, and we would be able to the expanding and emerging that the Government, in colintegrate more with the South industries. laboration with neighbouring High on the development American neighbours,” he Brazil, is exploring other said, adding: agenda, once his Government possibilities for hydro-elec“That gives us the opporis re-elected, President Ratricity in Guyana, and that tunity to create an economic motar said, is the construction at present, feasibility studies free-zone that will be able of a Deep-Water Harbour in are being done to locate other to create a lot of jobs for the Berbice River, and a highareas of opportunities. He told our people…So we have to way from Lethem to Linden Region Nine residents that the prepare our people here in that will connect Brazil to the power lines for the ‘hydro’ Region Nine to take the jobs existing road network all the project will “pass through that are coming here.” way to Berbice. here, and you will get power; He noted that many of the and we will be able to sell plans Government had for deexcess power to Brazil. velopment and the creation of “That will allow us to dejobs for Guyanese were shot velop our country to become down by the political opposia manufacturing country; and tion in the National Assembly. that will give us thousands of “The last three years have new jobs so that our people not been easy in our country. would have greater opportuEvery major plan we had the Opposition cut. Never one day did they use their majority seats to help build schools, or roads and or help develop our society. All they did was cut, cut, cut!” he said. He added that the cuts were deliberately aimed at stymieing progress and making Government’s task difficult.

Among the plans affected was the hydro power project, which would have accelerated Guyana’s growth by providing cheap energy and, “that is why we had identified the A group performing a traditional Amerindian dance for President Donald Ramotar and team A section of the lar Amaila Falls as one of the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

egion Nine’s c potential

19

PPP/C re-elected to office nities to earn a decent salary and make a living.”

He noted that in spite of the anti-development thrust of the Political Opposition, the Government has managed to have an average growth of five per cent yearly. He also noted that the Government is trying to build the capacity of the workforce so that the country could attract highend investments, based on its highly-skilled people, and not on the basis of cheap labour, as is common in many developing countries.

Given the importance of value-added production to the development of both the Region and the country as a whole, President Ramotar reassured Region Nine that the Administration is working assidiously at putting the necessary infrastructure in place, “so that we can turn our agricultural products into more industrial produce; so that we can transform cassava from the staple you eat, and also use it to make fuel.”

“We want to produce new crops to broaden the base of the economy, and increase our yield per acre, thereby increasing production,” he said. “The Savannah could capitalise on crops such as soya beans and corn, and support stockfeed for the livestock industry. The infrastructure we are putting in could allow us, in a very short time, to develop.”

BRIDGE OVER KURUPUKARI On the issue of local development, the President said the Government plans to bridge the Kurupukari

Crossing and connect the entire Rupununi via road as far as Region Eight. Such a connection, he said, will not only make travel easier and less time consuming, but cheaper as well.

Residents were told of his optimism that Guyana will find oil from the current exploration activities, which will make the task of development less challenging, and earn Guyana more money to spend on its people and “a lot of resources we need to accelerate development across these villages.”

Education is the tool that will prepare the country to eliminate poverty and hence, persons in the Rupununi should ensure they stay in school and pursue their education even after secondary school, he urged.

While Government has managed to reduce the poverty rate from 80 percent of the population living in poverty to 20 per cent, further reduction is highly dependent on every child securing a sound education.

“The potential and opportunities that exist in these areas,” he said, “are enormous for development, and we are investing in the human capital, our people to ensure that they will be able to take up the challenge and benefit directly from the development.”

The President also urged all, young and old, to take advantage of the information technology hubs being created in the hinterland to ensure they learn to use the computer, as Information Communication Technology has tremendous potential, as well as to create

rge gathering at the PPPC rally at Lethem

jobs and bridge traditional disparities between the hinterland coastal areas.

The President reassured Amerindians and hinterland residents that the Government has their best interest at heart, and reminded that it was the PPP/C Government that created many opportunities for them to have equal access to social and other services and economic opportunities as coastlanders.

These efforts have resulted in there being about 33 Amerindian doctors up from a single one in the past, an Amerindian girl from Region One topping President’s College at CSEC a few years ago, and numerous persons studying at the University of Guyana, the Guyana School of Agriculture and the Cyril Potter College of Education.

NO FAIR PROMISES He noted that the PPP/C Government has invested heavily in the hinterland, and is not making elections promises like the Opposition, but rather has a consistent development agenda focusing

PPPC Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper addressing the large Lethem crowd receive support. been much progress for AmShe also promised to on the people. He said that the erindians under this Governensure that the legal framement, including the allocation Opposition cannot be trusted, work is in place and enforce as they now profess to care of the entire month of Septo ensure the protection of about Amerindians after cut- tember to promote their culthe rights of women, the ture.

She said there are now ting funding for several inielderly, children and persons tiatives from the national bud- numerous schools in Region living with disabilities. get that were geared to help Nine, especially secondary Speaking to young peoschools, since in the past there Amerindians. “Now that it’s ple, she noted that Guyana coming near to elections there was a single secondary school is growing and there will be are lots of promises…but at St. Ignatius. many opportunities for them “This shows we are secan you trust them with your to stay here and capitalise future? How can they claim rious about Amerindian deas Government is working velopment and that includes to love young people and try to put measures in place to stop them from having a culture, preserving and proto create more jobs. These university education? These moting it,” she said. The include further facilitating PPP/C has a proud record in are not luxury things they micro enterprises’ develwere cutting from the budget office, while the Opposition opment and amending the shies away from the past bethese were essential things Small Business Act to ento help you…and when we cause of their 28-year record courage such ventures and put it back, they moved a no that left Guyana beaten and give greater protection to wounded, she said. confidence motion.” small entrepreneurs.

Prime Ministerial CandiSeeking their support at Other speakers spoke date for the PPP/C Elisabeth the May 11 polls, the Presiof the many achievements dent said, “The votes are in Harper also pointed to the for the Region under the your hands,” and urged that progress and strong leadcurrent Government, esership under this party for they reflect of the progress pecially improvements in under the incumbent govern- Amerindians, noting that once the social services and inment and use their votes to re-elected, the Government creased focus on training would ensure all activities continue this trend. for professionals such as Minister of Foreign Af- aimed at Amerindian develteachers and medical staff. opment and preserving and fairs, Carolyn Rodrigues-Bir(GINA) kett also noted that there has promoting their culture will

President Donald Ramotar, PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper, and Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett being escorted to the meeting site at the Rodeo Ground at Lethem

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Ten schools participate in ‘Girls in ICT’ observances GIRLS in ICT is an initiative of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and is a global effort to raise awareness on empowering and encouraging girls and young women to consider studies and careers in ICT (information and communications technology).

In Guyana, the girls in ICT drive is observed and celebrated by several organisations, including Digicel. This year Digicel partnered with two organisations, the National Frequency Management

Unit (NMFU) and Caricom Secretariat in their effort to bring ICT awareness to girls and young women in Guyana.

“Digicel is more than pleased to be associated with the girls in ICT initiative, not only this year but every other year that we would have partnered with the NFMU and now the Caricom Secretariat. We will continue to support ventures like these in an effort to bring ICT to the fore. Our business is telecommunications and pushing ICT to girls ensures a solid future for women in

the sector,” said Digicel’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryan Sinclair.

This is the second year that Digicel has partnered with the NFMU in supporting their girls in ICT observances. During the symposium that was held on April 23rd at North Ruimveldt Multilateral School, each of the girls present received a flash drive sponsored by Digicel. The flash drives contained useful information that was presented.

During Caricom Secretariat’s workshop which was held on April 30th Digicel

and other organisations were invited to have more of an interactive session with the girls who participated in the one day event.

One hundred and twenty-five students and teachers from ten schools in Guyana were part of the day’s activities which included Skype conferences with the Caricom Youth Ambassadors and interactions with girls from Jamaica and Belize. The theme for this year’s Girls in ICT Day was “Expanding Horizons, Changing attitudes”.

Massy to distribute popular Unilever brands

Some of the products on display at the launching

M A S S Y Tr a d i n g h a s been awarded the distributorship of the range of home care and spreads brands manufactured by Unilever.

According to a release from Massy, this is yet another milestone for one of the Massy Group of Companies, because it is the official launch of the Unilever and Massy Trading Partnership, as it is expected to be great because both companies have a long history of success.

This is considering the fact that Massy has a range of successful companies in almost all sectors, whereas Unilever has over 3,000 brands that are used by two billion people every day.

Meanwhile, the release also stated that both companies recognise the importance of community effort and the emphasis of

Persons present at the launching last Saturday

Hygiene Hut marks first anniversary CITY gift store, HYGIENE HUT, is observing its first birthday with the less fortunate in mind, and has partnered with cell-phone firm, Telco Solutions, in its first anniversary promotion to give customers free cellphone credit with purchases made at Hygiene Hut. Some of the proceeds will be donated at the end of the promotion to the Guyana Relief Council, a non-governmental organization that frequently assists victims of natural disasters and fires.

Ms. Lynette Carter, Administrative Officer of the Council, expressed appreciation for the donation on behalf of her organisation. “We appreciate the gesture by the store to remember us as the agency of their choice. We do appreciate the thought,” Carter said when told by the store’s Managing Director, Mr. Shiv Nandalall about the

intended contribution.

Nandalall observed that it must never be the intention of a business enterprise, however small, to focus only on its own profit-making objectives.

“We as a society must remember those around us, especially the ones who become victims of circumstance,” Nandalall commented. “It is therefore mandatory that our young and budding operation begin to honour its social obligations at this early stage,” he said.

The gift store’s first anniversary promotion runs from April 27 to May 9, 2015. Customers making purchases from $3,000 at the Regent Road facility will get $300 free top-up for both DIGICEL and GT&T cell-phones.

For further information, please contact Shiv Nandalall on 223-7511 or 623-7723.

being customer-focused, because “they know that all customers want to feel and look good so they will select great and high quality brands that will meet the needs and wants of consumers for all markets, including Guyana.”

Additionally, over the years, Massy Trading has distributed a number of brands, ensuring their growth and success in the Guyana market and they intend to demonstrate the same zeal for the home care and spread brands – all with the aim of increasing market share.

According to the release the brands that will be distributed by Massy Trading are Breeze, Quix, Blueband, Flora, ICBINB, comfort,

Cif, Radiante, Mistolin and Skip which are all available countrywide.

Massy Group of Companies also launched their Breeze Independence Promotion, in honour of Guyana’s 49th Independence Anniversary.

Persons will have a chance to win over $1M in cash and prizes, as the promotion starts May 4, 2015 and ends June 12, 2015.

As persons are expected to submit their name, address and telephone number with the two 375g or one large Breeze packet/proof of purchase (bill) or Breeze liquid 900g or larger. “Drop all entries at any participating stores or Courts outlet near you,”, the release added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Six children Support for successfully complete Agri-business heart surgery at GPHC

PPP/C Guyana Version 2.0 (Excerpts)

WE HAVE always promoted agriculture as a vehicle for national prosperity, to end poverty and hunger, and provide opportunities for better lives for ALL Guyanese.

Agriculture is one of the engines of Guyana’s economic growth and a large scale employer. The PPP/C commits the highest priority to agricultural growth, recognising its contribution to the economy, farmers’ income and rural development.

We will continue to implement appropriate policies to increase agriculture’s share of our GDP, increase employment in the sector, and in particular, increase the contribution of agriculture to economic growth, rural transformation and development in all ten administrative regions.

The Agriculture Sector will continue to be built around the five areas known as the F5 Strategy: Food Security (no more hunger); Fiber and Nutritious Food (no more malnutrition); Fuel production (clean energy and energy security); Fashion and Health Products (expanding agro-processing into areas outside of food); and Furniture and Crafts (further expansion of agriculture outside of food).

Our commitments to Agribusiness will include: ● Fully implementing the National Agriculture Strategy. ● Improving farm-to-market transportation, including boats to assist farmers to transport produce to markets. ● Establishing packaging/canning factories in various geographical locations to preserve and add value to agricultural produce. ● Transforming the Guyana Marketing

Corporation (GMC) to purchase produce from farmers and to re-sell to large users, like hospitals, manufacturers and for exports. ● Putting in place social safety nets to help farmers above 60 years, small and marginal farmers and farm labourers. ● Strengthening and expanding rural credit facilities. ● Introducing consumer-friendly farmers’ markets to reduce wastage and increase income and risk coverage. ● Encouraging large scale soya and corn production and new crops such as quinoa, rubber and palm oil. ● Promoting an agri-energy industry, producing bio-ethanol through sugar cane, palm oil, cassava and corn. ● Beginning the process of opening up at least 300,000 acres of new land, including establishment of the Mahaica-Mahaicony Conservancy. ● Increasing irrigation pumping capacity. ● Increasing drainage pumping capacity. ● Increasing outfall de-silting pontoon excavator capacity and start the construction of groynes. ● Commissioning a state-of-the-art National Soil Laboratory. ● Transforming Ebini, Kairuni and Hosororo Nurseries to Centers of Excellence, with dormitory facilities for the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) students to complete attachments and for researchers from Guyana and abroad to conduct studies. ● Expanding the GSA agro-processing facility to produce more products for the international markets. ● Completing soil mapping for at least six regions by 2020.

Director of the Echocardiography Education Programme at the GPHC, Dr. Debra Isaac doing a screening on one of the patients through the Echocardiography (ECG) machine in the presence of her mother and other doctors

A patient recovering and being comforted by his mother and a doctor

SIX OF the 18 children who were scheduled to undergo heart surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), through support from the International Children’s Heart Foundation (Baby Heart), have successfully completed the procedures and are in recovery.

Two of the six children have already been sent home, while another eight are scheduled for surgery in the new week.

The Baby Heart Foundation is a non-profit organisation that travels around the world to assist in paediatric cardiac surgeries, and at the same time train local health practitioners in this regard.

During an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) on Saturday, Dr. Rodrigo Soto, Chief Executive Officer of Baby Heart Foundation, said the experience has been fantastic thus far, and expressed gratitude to

the Government of Guyana for allowing the organisation to develop its programme here.

“Certainly a lot of work has been done… consequence of all the work that has been done for the past four years from the cardiology point of view, now being able to come here and operate on the patients here in Guyana and the most important is to train the doctors in order to do this,” Dr Soto explained.

A special Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was also refurbished at the GPHC to facilitate post-surgery care for the children, and Baby Heart Foundation donated some equipment for the unit.

Meanwhile, Director of the Echocardiography Education Programme at the GPHC, Dr. Debra Isaac said that when the programme first started, it was realised that children accounted for almost 40% of the heart ultrasounds that were done, and many required surgery. Unfortunately, only

a few had access to surgical interventions, and a few were sent to other countries.

Dr Isaac noted that those children who were sent abroad for surgery did not benefit from proper follow-up care.

However, with the help of the Health Ministry and Dr Marissa Seepersaud, paediatric surgeon at the GPHC, a Guyana Paediatric Steering Committee was established with the aim of indentifying children that need surgery and those that were already operated upon, and institute screening for others.

Through this programme, Dr Isaac said, the Baby Heart team came in and those children were looked at.

The Foundation has been around for over 20 years, and has successfully completed 7,500 surgeries in 32 countries.

The team will be visiting Guyana in July for another few weeks to conduct more surgeries. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

APNU+AFC to ‘reach out’ to PPP/C, if elected – plans working towards national-unity government

“WE ARE going to reach out to the PPP/C after the May11 elections, so as to proceed with the continued development, as it would be in denial of the national unity of our party to not include the other political parties in the continuity of building this country.”

This commitment was given by leader of the Opposition coalition, A Partnership For National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), David Granger, yesterday in response to a question from Chris Chapwanya during an interview on ‘Hard Talk’ aired on 90.1 (Love) FM. In reply to whether or not they are going to reach out to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) if elected on May 11, the retired brigadier said that they are going to build a Government of National Unity, therefore, they will reach out to the PPP/C so that they can share in the governing of the country.

Although he established the fact that they will reach out to the PPP/C, Granger underscored that no PPP/C

member will share space in the cabinet because they are contaminated with corruption, as they intend to be careful and keen in selecting their Ministers of Government.

APNU+AFC’S MANIFESTO The corruption, he noted, could be seen in their allround performance over the years and the Opposition has laid out their plan of action in their recently launched manifesto.

Moving more indepth on their manifesto, Granger stated that the issues highlighted in the manifesto represent the views of the people of Guyana who they have visited and heard their cries for a better livelihood.

budget cuts and blockages of the passing of bills, Granger first bemoaned the fact that the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) bill which the PPP/C wanted to implement was already in the first legislation 15 years ago, and there have been no enforcements since.

Therefore, he stated, they did not agree to the bill because they wanted to ensure that there was compliance with laws, better supervision by the Bank of Guyana and in general just to ‘tighten up’ the bill, ensuing that it was ‘water tight’ before passing it.

Apart from that he announced that they intend to reexamine contracts, such as the Amaila Falls Hydro Project and the Specialty Hospital which the PPP/C withdrew or failed to cope with.

PEOPLE’S CONCERNS The ideas, he noted, didn’t just “drop out of the sky or drop from a tree.”

Persons have articulated their concerns to APNU+AFC and therefore they are making representations on behalf of the people of this nation.

When asked about the

PLANS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Meanwhile, as the programme progressed Granger was asked what are the Party’s plans for the younger people of Guyana if elected.

In response he said that after 23 years the country doesn’t have a credible youth strate-

gy, as the PPP/C failed young people terribly.

“There has been a recorded 6,000 school dropouts every year, not forgetting the serious problems at UG…we have to fix the education system, as we intend to develop a technical and agricultural institute in every region,” Granger stated.

He also disclosed that, “we will also make sure that at the level of the schools there is proper computer labs and use it as the basis to build Information and Communications Technology (ICT)… because we cannot proceed with any dreaming scheme without the school system, as it was cockeyed to give everyone one laptop, therefore, we will start at UG and Cyril Potter College and build the system.”

Apart from the education sector, the leader of the Opposition said that they will be providing more employment

for young people.

he said.

CORRUPTION Addressing the issue of corruption in Guyana when asked how they intend to address it if elected, Granger said they firstly intend to provide efficient public services by treating public servants better.

He disclosed that the PPP/C failed to treat public servants right, and this was a contributing factor towards corruption; one of their methods he highlighted will be to increase the payments of police and army officers.

“We will improve the salaries, provide more training, increase the provision of equipment, and increase methods of transportation for the police officers, as the PPP/C had a deliberate plan to keep them weak… but we will ensure that we build a more efficient police force as we fight against corruption,”

JUST TWO EX-GDF OFFICERS And when questioned about the alleged militarization of APNU+AFC, Granger disclosed that, “the persons who are making these allegations need to provide evidence to justify their statements, as during their three years in the 10th Parliament only two out of 65 of their members were ex officers, and these are myself and Joe Harmon.”

This, he noted, can’t be called militarisation, as they can’t militarise the parliament with two former officers.

Meanwhile in closing, he urged persons to vote for APNU+AFC, because they intend to reduce, crime, corruption, unify Guyana, and ensure that the children of this country have a good life.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

IT HAPPENED IN 2005...

GRA billion-dollar demand on DDL – as consumption tax declared null – Appellate Court affirms High Court ruling IN February of 2005, the Demerara Distilleries Ltd applied to the High Court for writs of Certiorari and Prohibition, which were is-

sued by Justice Dawn Gregory-Barnes and effectively quashed a Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) demand on DDL to pay to the GRA

Sunday, May 3, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Monday, May 4, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Tuesday, May 5, 2015 - 05:30 hrs

the sum of $1,072,959,861 as consumption tax.

Following the ruling of that High Court Judge, which quashed the more than one-billion-dollar consumption tax imposed on Demerara Distilleries Ltd, the Guyana Revenue Authority appealed the ruling; but the appeal was dismissed by the Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted by Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Mr. Carl Singh, Chief Justice (Ag.) Mr Ian Chang, SC, and Justice William Ramlal.

Mr. Ashton Chase, SC, represented the appellant, while Mr. Rex Mc Kay, SC, appeared for the respondent, the DDL. The facts of the case disclosed that the respondent, Demerara Distillers Ltd, was a registered manufacturer of alcoholic products for local consumption in Guyana, which attracted consumption tax under a consumption tax order made under Section 4 of the Consumption Tax Act. Upon application of the respondents, the court issued a writ of certiorari against the appellant, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), quashing the decision of the GRA to assess and demand from the respondent payment of a sum in excess of $1 billion dollars as consumption tax for manufactured alcoholic products for the period January 2001 – September 2002, on the grounds that the said

assessment was erroneously computed and not assessed in accordance with the provisions of the Consumption Tax Act Chapter 80:02, and was therefore unconstitutional, unlawful, arbitrary, unreasonable, made in bad faith, without or in excess of jurisdiction, is ultra vires, null, void, and of no legal effect.

The writ of prohibition prohibited the GRA from proceeding with the assessment and recovery of the sum on the said grounds.

The GRA appealed on a number of grounds, in particular the interpretation or construction of Section 3 of the Consumption Tax Act. The respondents cross-appealed, contending that statements made by His Excellency the President of Guyana to the Guyana Manufacturers Association, on 14th September 2001, concerning the basis for the computation of consumption tax for the manufacturers of chargeable goods created a legitimate expectation in the respondent.

The Government had decided that, for consumption tax purposes, the value on chargeable goods manufactured locally would be calculated on the basis of the ex- factory price plus a 15 per cent mark-up. Section 3 of the Consumption Tax Act provided that: (1) there shall be raised, levied and collected, at such rate as the Minister may determine…, a consumption tax in respect of any chargeable goods imported into Guyana, or manufactured therein…

(2) The tax…shall be due and collected in relation to… (b) chargeable goods manufactured in Guyana at the time of the delivery of the goods from the premises of the registered manufacturer, or the appropriation of such goods for consumption in Guyana, whichever is the earlier.

(3) Where tax is chargeable on any goods by reference to their value, that value shall: (b) If the goods are manufactured in Guyana, be the price which, in the opinion of the Comptroller, the goods would fetch on a sale made at the time when the tax in respect of such goods becomes due by a manufacturer selling on the open market in Guyana, if the sale were made in the circumstances specified in the schedule.

The Guyana Court of Appeal, in its judgment, held: Section 3 (2)(b) of the Consumption Tax Act focused not on the place at which

there was appropriation or delivery but the time when there was appropriation or delivery.

It followed that appropriation or delivery commenced, for those purposes, when the first item of alcoholic product was set aside or apart, or (was) delivered for local consumption.

What was of materiality was when, or during which time, the products were appropriated or delivered for local consumption, since it was that period of time which had statutory relevance to the determination by the Comptroller of the open market price of the products 3 (3) (b).

According to the judgment, Parliament had identified a single authority, the Comptroller, to determine the notional price in a notional sale. That notional price became the actual value on which the consumption tax was chargeable.

The function of determining the notional open market selling price of the product was not that of the company but of the Comptroller, under Section 3 (3) (b).

The Comptroller had to engage not in mere speculative guesswork, but in a computation exercise in which the circumstances mentioned in the schedule (including the commission and sales costs and expenses) were to be assumed.

Such computation had, of necessity, to involve not only the cost of production, but any other post-production costs incurred by the manufacturers, right up to the process of appropriation, or delivery (inclusive of appropriation or delivery costs), and a profit margin which would allow for the marketability of the product in the open market.

Accordingly, the GRA appeal was dismissed.

The writ of certiorari quashed the decision of the Guyana Revenue Authority to assess and demand from the applicant payment of the sum of one billion, seventy two million, nine hundred and eighty-nine thousand, eight hundred and fifty-one dollars as consumption tax for manufactured alcohol products for the period January 2001 to September, 2002 on the ground that the said assessment was erroneously computed and was not assessed in accordance with the provisions of the Consumption Tax Act Chapter 80:02; is unconstitutional, unlawful, arbitrary, unreasonable; made in bad faith; without, or in excess of jurisdiction; is ultra

George Barclay

vires; and is void and of no legal effect.

The writ of prohibition prohibited the Guyana Revenue Authority from proceeding with the said assessment and recovery of the said sum on the said grounds.

On March 2, 2005, The Guyana Revenue Authority filed a notice of appeal to the Guyana Court of Appeal against the decision of Barnes J. Several grounds of appeal were set out in the notice of appeal, and advanced before the court.

In his judgment, the Chief Justice had said, however, that since it appeared to him that the crux of the matter related to the interpretation or construction of Section 3 of the Consumption Tax Act, Chapter 89: 02, “I will confine my judgment essentially to the ground of appeal which relates to the interpretation or construction of Section 3 (ie, ground VII)”.

According to Acting Chief Justice Chang, Ground 7 of the appellant’s grounds of appeal read:“The learned trial judge erred in the construction and interpretation of Section 3 of the Consumption Tax Act.” Chang said that Section 3 of the Consumption Tax Act provides: (i) Subject to, and in accordance with, the provisions of the Act and any regulations made thereunder, there shall be raised and collected, at such rate as the Minister may determine, by order made under Section 4, a consumption tax in respect of any chargeable goods imported into Guyana or manufactured therein, except chargeable goods imported or acquired as material for (production purposes), and used as such by a registered manufacturer.

Chargeable goods, the Chief Justice said, is defined in Section 2 of the Act as meaning such goods as may be specified in an order made by the Minister under Section 4.

The appeal ended in a victory for the respondent.

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Clippers send Spurs packing with Game Seven win

(THE Sports Xchange) - Chris Paul scored the winning basket with one second left as the Los Angeles Clippers beat San Antonio 111-109 in Game Seven to send the Spurs crashing out of their Western Conference firstround playoff series.

Paul, who strained his left hamstring in the first quarter, scored over Spurs forward Tim Duncan to seal the win and he finished with 27 points as the Clippers advanced to the conference semi-finals against the Houston Rockets.

Game One is on today in Houston.

Clippers forward Blake Griffin added 24 points 13 rebounds 10 assists for his second triple-double of the series.

Duncan finished with 27 points

11 rebounds to lead the Spurs. Point guard Tony Parker had 20 points.

Griffin’s two free throws with 3:35 remaining put Los Angeles up 102-101 but Duncan’s putback and forward Kawhi Leonard’s follow-up from a miss by Patty Mills lifted the Spurs to a 105-102 lead.

A three-pointer from Barnes tied the score again before Parker’s putback made it 107-105 for the Spurs with 1:23 remaining.

Clippers guard Jamal Crawford scored on a drive to tie the score and Paul’s two free throws with 13.3 seconds left gave the Clippers a 109-107 lead.

Duncan converted two foul shots with 8.8 seconds remaining to knot the score at 109-109 before Paul’s last-gasp winning basket.

Los Angeles Clippers forward Matt Barnes (22) blocks a shot by San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) at the buzzer in game seven of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Clippers won 111-109.

Windies stun England ...

From back page picked up two wickets apiece to finish with three-wicket hauls.

Pacer Jerome Taylor claimed the other wicket to end with three for 33.

Wicketkeeper Jos Buttler top-scored with 35 not out, Ben Stokes got 32 while Gary Ballance got 23.

Permaul struck nearly half-hour into the morning when he had left-hander Gary Ballance, unbeaten on 12 overnight, caught at slip by Bravo to leave England 62 for six.

Buttler and Stokes put on 33 for the seventh wicket to frustrate West Indies before Permaul claimed Stokes to a catch at extra cover by Chanderpaul, driving.

He faced 48 balls and struck five fours.

Three overs later, Holder struck twice in successive deliveries when he trapped Chris Jordan lbw for two and then removed Stuart Broad’s off-stump without scoring.

Tottering on 98 for nine, England garnered precious runs through some hefty blows from Buttler before Holder removed Anderson lbw for two, on review.

West Indies openers Kraigg Brathwaite and debutant Shai Hope then survived the lone over before lunch to reach four without loss at the break, and proceeded to add 35 for the first wicket in a quiet stand.

Brathwaite hit 25 off 36 balls with three fours

while Hope managed just nine from 44 balls before perishing 50 minutes after the break, lbw to a full-length delivery from Jordan.

Hope reviewed the decision but replays showed the ball smashing into leg stump.

West Indies suffered another blow, just moments later, in the next over when Brathwaite edged one from Moeen for the excellent Jordan to snare a brilliant one-handed effort at slip.

Marlon Samuels, who made 20, joined Bravo to help post 35 for the third wicket and seemed to be taking West Indies safely to tea when Samuels got one from seamer Broad that nipped back, caught him on the crease, and rattled his stumps in the third over before the break.

Samuels’ dismissal left the game in the balance at tea with Bravo on 15 and Chanderpaul yet to score.

However, the game tipped England’s way when Chanderpaul sparred at a wide, harmless delivery from Anderson and dragged it on.

Blackwood, as he did in the first innings when he top-scored with 85, proceeded to play an innings of maturity.

Both he and Bravo mixed bouts of aggression with sensible graft, an approach that wore England

down slowly and forced captain Alistair to wring the changes.

Bravo cleared the ropes at long-off with part-time off-spinner Joe Root the first ball after tea before caressing him through cover for four. He then paced his innings before raising his half-century and that of the partnership with his fifth four, a square-driven boundary off Broad.

With victory in sight, he upped the tempo, smashing Moeen over long on for six and repeating the stroke off the same bowler a couple overs later.

He perished with four runs required for victory, caught by Broad at cover off Stokes, trying to end the game with a boundary.

Blackwood, meanwhile, enjoyed a stroke

of luck on four, half-hour after tea, when he charged Root and missed a swing, and was mis-stumped by Buttler. Unfazed, he continued to pick up singles and had faced 43 balls before he struck his first four – a flick to fine leg off Jordan.

He cleared the mid-wicket ropes with Moeen in the next over and continued to play sensibly, as West Indies inched towards victory.

Like Bravo, he raised the intensity a notch with victory looming, coming down and stroking Moeen to the cover boundary before striking the final blow, to seal the result.

The first Test in Antigua finished in a draw while England won the second in Grenada last week by nine wickets.

SCOREBOARD ENGLAND 1st innings 257 West Indies 1st innings 189 ENGLAND 2nd innings (o/n 37 for five) A. Cook c Brathwaite b Gabriel 4 I. Trott lbw b Taylor 9 G. Balance c Bravo b Permaul 23 I. Bell lbw b Taylor 0 J. Root c Bravo b Holder 1 M. Ali b Permaul 8 B. Stokes c Chanderpaul b Permaul 33 J. Buttler not out 35 C. Jordan lbw b Holder 2 S. Broad b Holder 0 J. Anderson lbw b Taylor 2 Extras: (b-4, lb-2, nb-1) 7 Total: (all out, 42.1 overs) 123 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-13, 3-18, 4-28,

5-39, 6-62, 7-95, 8-98, 9-98.

Bowling: Taylor 11.1-1-33-3, Gabriel 7-4-16-1, Holder 9-3-15-3, Permaul 11-3-43-3, Samuels 4-1-10-0.

WEST INDIES 2nd innings (target: 192) K. Brathwaite c Jordan b Moeen Ali 25 S. Hope lbw b Jordan 9 D. Bravo c Broad b Stokes 82 M. Samuels b Broad 20 S. Chanderpaul b Anderson 0 J. Blackwood not out 47 D. Ramdin not out 0 Extras: (b-5, lb-6) 11 Total: (5 wkts, 62.4 overs) 194 Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-35, 3-70, 4-80, 5-188.

Bowling: Anderson 13-4-35-1, Broad 13-5-29-1, Jordan 11-5-24-1, Moeen 12.41-54-1, Root 8-4-16-0, Stokes 5-0-25-1.

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Mayweather cements place among the boxing greats

By Steve Keating LAS VEGAS, Nevada (Reuters) - Floyd Mayweather Jr cemented his place among the pantheon of boxing greats by improving to 48-0 with a unanimous decision over Manny Pacquiao on Saturday in a fight that lived up to its immense hype and price tag.

Mayweather weathered an early assault from the Filipino southpaw before winning the later rounds using his reach and jab to finish ahead on all three scorecards in a welterweight showdown set to be the top grossing prize fight of all-time.

“When the history books are written, it was worth the wait,” Mayweather said in the ring after a four-belt unification bout that was more than five years in the making.

Though Pacquiao repeatedly forced Mayweather to backpedal, the wily American blunted his opponent’s best efforts by using his renowned defensive skills while getting in several telling jabs and punches of his own.

Mayweather and Pacquiao had promised to deliver on years of hype and give fans their money’s worth and were true to their word in delivering an entertaining contest that had the capacity crowd on its feet roaring from the opening bell to the end of the 12-round showcase.

“Manny Pacquiao is a hell of a fighter, I see now why he is at the pinnacle of boxing,” the 38-year-old Mayweather said after an emotional embrace with Pacquiao. “I’m a smart fighter, I outboxed him.

“We knew what we had to do. He’s a tough competitor ... a very awkward fighter and I had to take my time and watch him

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closely.”

The fight between the greatest two boxers of their generation was one that appeared might never happen as Pacquiao resisted Mayweather’s demands for blood-testing

For Mayweather, the fight was one that will shape his legacy.

Even if he were to have retired unbeaten there would have forever been a question mark hanging over his career without at least

Floyd Mayweather, Jr of the U.S. (L) and Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines fight in the fifth round during their welterweight WBO, WBC and WBA (Super) title fight in Las Vegas, Nevada, Saturday. (Reuters/Steve Marcus) for five years.

one meeting against his Filipino rival.

RELATED COVERAGE When the two camps finally hammered out a deal, it was the richest in boxing history, setting new records for pay-per-view (PPV) buys and gate receipts.

The fighters were also paid royally for their night’s work, with Mayweather guaranteed $120 million and Pacquiao $80 million although both men could pocket much more depending on the number of PPV purchases.

SEPTEMBER SWAN SONG Mayweather said in the ring that he would fight again but that his next bout would be his last.

“My last fight is in September and then it is time for me to hang it up,” Mayweather added. “I am almost 40 years old now, I have been in the sport 19 years, I have been world champion 18 years.

“I am truly thankful and I am bless-

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ed.”

Dubbed the ‘Fight of the Century’ the MGM Grand Garden Arena crackled with energy as the rich and famous settled into their ringside seats.

Actors Clint Eastwood, Robert De Niro, Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington rubbed shoulders with sports celebrities such as Michael Jordan, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and billionaire Donald Trump.

With prime seats commanding six-figure sums on the resale market even the very wealthy and very famous were forced to call in favours to secure a golden ticket while an estimated 150 000 to 200 000 fight fans flooded into the desert gambling capital to be part of the buzz.

Wearing a simple white T-shirt, Pacquiao knelt in his corner for a prayer as boos filled the hall when Mayweather appeared on the giant screens.

There were no smiles from the stonefaced American as he entered the ring wearing black white and gold trunks and sporting a $23 000 mouth guard infused with flecks of gold and pieces of a hundred-dollar bill.

Five years of hype then reached a climax when famed announcer Jimmy Lennon stood in the centre of the ring and told the crowd, “The wait is over, it’s go time.”

The bout marked Mayweather’s 11th consecutive fight at the MGM but it was Pacquiao who enjoyed a massive edge in support as he appeared in the arena.

“It is a good fight. I thought I won the fight. He didn’t do nothing (anything). He always moved outside,” said Pacquiao, who dropped to 57-6-2. “I did my best but my best wasn’t good enough.”

Filipinos take Pacquiao loss hard, demand rematch MANILA, Philippines (Reuters) - Manny Pacquiao’s loss to undefeated American Floyd Mayweather Jr in their welterweight showdown in Las Vegas was met with tears, anger and accusations of foul play in his homeland of the Philippines yesterday.

The American weathered Pacquiao’s early assault and seemed to get stronger as the fight wore on, finishing ahead on all three judges’ scorecards.

In General Santos City, some fans cried while others called for an immediate rematch, saying Pacquiao deserved the win as he had been the aggressor, chasing M a y w e a t h e r a ro u n d the ring for much of the 12-round fight.

“It’s a home court decision,” said Karlo Alexei Nograles, a lawmaker from Davao City. “Manny should’ve won. He had

Mayweather running and cornered on the ropes.

Manny did not disappoint Filipinos, he gave it his

standstill as Filipinos packed into cinemas, hotels and parks to watch on big screens,

A fan of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao reacts after Floyd Mayweather Jr. was announced winner in the boxing bout at a public park in Marikina city, Philippines, yesterday. (Reuters/Erik De Castro) all.”

The fight left streets deserted and brought the country to a virtual

while army bases across the Philippines also showed the fight for the troops.

President Benigno Aquino thanked Pacquiao for inspiring his countrymen to strive for better lives.

“He fought for respect, not points,” Edwin Lacierda, the president’s spokesman, said. “He won the hearts of the world.”

While many fans vehemently disagreed with the result, some agreed Mayweather had come out on top.

“I am sad, let’s accept the decision,” Isidro Santos, a shopping mall guard, told Reuters. “Manny will remain my idol, he lost to a better fighter, a clever boxer.”

Local analysts thought Mayweather was better defensively and landed the more accurate punches, and while Pacquiao was more aggressive they said he won only three or four rounds.

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Blue is the Colour resounds as Chelsea claim Premier League title

By Tom Hayward

LONDON, England (Reuters) - The club anthem ‘Blue is the Colour’ resounded around a joyful Stamford Bridge and champagne flowed as Chelsea clinched their first Premier League title for five years with a typically stubborn 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace yesterday.

There was no show-boating from Jose Mourinho’s ruthlessly efficient side and there were a few jitters as they held on to Eden Hazard’s goal scored just before halftime.

Victory moved Chelsea to 83 points from 35 games, 13 points clear of Manchester City who hid the disappointment of handing over their title by winning 1-0 at sixth-placed Tottenham Hotspur in yesterday’s late kickoff.

Sergio Aguero’s 22nd league goal of the season in that game ended a run of four consecutive away defeats for Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

City are three clear of Arsenal in the race for runners-up spot with the Gunners, who have five games to play, at relegation battlers Hull City today.

Chelsea’s fifth single-goal victory margin in their last seven league games sparked raucous scenes around the ground and on the pitch, with ever-present skipper John Terry leading the celebrations with veteran striker Didier Drogba.

“I am very happy and proud. I need a rest, I’m tired. It’s not easy to cope with that, but finally, mathematically we are

champions now,” said a calm and measured Mourinho, who won back-to-back titles in 2004-05 and 05-06.

“Finally we can breathe, relax and enjoy.

We can look back and see how much we deserve to be champions.”

With blue ticker-tape raining down in the sunshine, Chelsea’s players completed a lap of honour with ironic chants of “boring, boring Chelsea” ringing out. “ I t ’s a n u n b e l i e v a b l e feeling,” Terry, who sunk to his knees on hearing the final whistle, told Sky Sports.

“We’ve worked so hard, so to get over the line is great.

“This is what I live for.

It’s been five years since we’ve won it. The first one was special and you go four or five years without it and that hurts. So I’ll really enjoy it today.”

enough for Chelsea to become English champions for the fifth time, but Alan Pardew’s Palace side were in no mood to play the role of bystanders.

CELEBRATORY MOOD Blustery, grey conditions Chelsea’s Gary Cahill celebrates after winning the had lingered for much of yes- Barclays Premier League. (Action Images via Reuterday morning but kickoff in ters/Carl RecineLivepic) west London was greeted by the sudden emergence of sunshine which reflected the celebratory mood.

Pardew had won four of his previous six A midweek 3-1 victory at Leicester City matches as an opposition coach against Chelmeant three points against Palace would be sea and from the opening stages it was evident

Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond football tournament reaches semi-finals DEFENDING champions Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary will face Mackenzie High School while Wisburg collide with Linden Foundation today in the semi-finals of the Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Memorial football tournament.

This is the seventh staging of the tournament that is played to honour one of the best players from Linden, Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond, and today will feature three teams who have already staked claim to the coveted title.

Known around Guyana as ‘Multi’, Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School has built a reputation of being one the country’s most feared team on the pitch, due to their dominance, especially at the Digicel Schools Football Championship.

An undefeated run so far in the competition puts them again Mackenzie High who finished second in their group behind Wisburg, to set up a clash with the team that had broken their hearts over the years in various tournaments.

Linden Foundation, former champions, face a Wisburg team that have shown their hunger to stake its lien on the trophy for the first time.

his mid-table side had designs on postponing the Blues’ title celebrations.

Chelsea were almost gifted a fortuitous lead in the 22nd minute when Palace keeper Julian Speroni punched wildly at Cesc Fabregas’s free kick but Nemanja Matic, afforded the freedom of the penalty area, dithered and his shot was diverted wide.

Terry was then lucky to escape conceding a penalty when he appeared to block Jason Puncheon’s drive with his arm.

With halftime looming, talisman Hazard had been relatively anonymous by his own standards but he burst into life to draw a challenge from James McArthur and win a penalty.

His spot kick was awful, straight at Speroni, but the ball bounced up invitingly and the Belgian guided a header home.

The second half was a stop-start affair.

Drogba wasted a great chance to double the lead and Puncheon fired inches wide for Palace who remained a threat on the counter-attack but never really threatened to gatecrash the party.

Chelsea have lost only twice all season in the league, the sort of consistency that Palace manager Alan Pardew recognised made them the benchmark for the rest.

“That’s why he (Mourinho) earns the money he does. He wins. He wins trophies and he will win them in any manner he thinks is right for that particular occasion,” said Pardew, who got one over the Portuguese this season when still in charge of Newcastle United.

Amelia’s Ward Russians and Wisroc to clash in tonight’s final

A MAMMOTH crowd is expected tonight at the Mackenzie Market Square for the final of the Guinness Greatest of the Streets football tournament.

With $300 000 on the line, Amelia’s Ward Russians and Wisroc will battle for Street Football most desirable title.

While Wisroc will enter tonight’s final as the underdogs, the Russians were clear favourites in the ‘win or go home’ formatted tournament.

Fans got a glimpse of how gritty the Amelia’s Ward-based unit can be when they defeated favourites Retrieve Unknowns in the semi-finals last Thursday at the same venue.

It took sudden-death penalty to separate the two sides, with the Russians winning 4-3 after they both failed to score

Flashback! Part of the action between Russians and Retrieve Unknowns in Thursday’s semi-finals at the Mackenzie Market Square in Linden.

in the regulation and allotted extra time.

Wisroc booked their spot in tonight’s final when Omar Archer scored the lone goal in their 1-0 over Star Boyz.

Having already qualified for the National tournament by virtue of simply reaching the final, tonight’s game will be about the money and bragging rights for a year to see who will be ‘made of more’ as the Guinness catch phrase says, to be crowned the ‘Greatest of the Streets’.

Meanwhile, before the final, the third place playoff between Retrieve Unknowns and Star Boyz will take place.

The runners-up will pocket $150 000 while the third- and fourthplace finishers will receive $100 000 and $75 000 respectively. (Rawle Toney)

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Americans too fast for Bolt to catch in relay

(REUTERS) - Not even Usain Bolt could overcome a big American lead as the U.S. men sprinted to a convincing victory over Jamaica in the 4x100 metres relay at the IAAF World Relays in Nassau on Saturday.

Mike Rodgers, Justin Gatlin and Tyson Gay powered the Americans to a five-metre advantage through three legs of the highly anticipated race and Ryan Bailey brought the team home in 37.38 seconds.

Bolt, who had missed last year’s inaugural World Relays, made up ground on Bailey in their anchor leg but could not close the gap as Jamaica, running their 2013 world championship team, finished second in 37.68.

The Americans’ time equalled the seventh-fastest ever over the distance as all eight teams in the final, including third-placed Japan, earned automatic qualifying spots for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The victory highlighted a sparkling night for U.S. athletes, who also set a world

Ryan Bailey of the U.S. (C) celebrates as he crosses the finish line ahead of Jamaica’s Usain Bolt (L) as the U.S. won the 4x100 metres race at the IAAF World Relays Championships in Nassau, Bahamas, Saturday. Japan’s Kataro Taniguchi is at left. (Reuters/Mike Segar)

Simmons half-century fires Mumbai to third straight win MOHALI, India (CMC) – West Indies opener Lendl Simmons stroked a handsome half-century to underline Mumbai Indians’ revival as they won their third straight game with a 23-run victory over Kings XI Punjab in the Indian Premier League here yesterday.

Opting to bat first at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, Mumbai chalked up 172 for three off their 20 overs, behind the right-handed Simmons’ top score of 71 off 56 balls.

In reply, Kings XI never really got going despite David Miller’s 43 off 37 balls and opener Murali Vijay’s 39 off 34 deliveries.

Despite the victory, Mumbai lie one from the bottom of the IPL standings on eight points. They lost their first five games but have seen their form turn around in recent outings.

Simmons ensured the upward swing continued when he put on 111 for the first wicket with Parthiv Patel who struck 59 off 36 deliveries.

While Simmons struck nine fours and a six, Parthiv counted five fours and three sixes, as the pair busied themselves in a productive stand that required just 74 balls.

Parthiv fell first in the 13th over but Simmons held the innings together, adding a further 33 for the second wicket with captain Rohit Sharma (26), before falling with three balls left in the innings.

He was caught at square leg by Axar Patel off seamer Anureet Singh, looking for a big shot.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday May 04, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) &AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: 26 Tests; 5 centuries Mohit Sharma-23 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

Which two made their Test debut against England?

Mahendra Nagamootoo; Colin Stewart; Darren Powell; Ian Bradshaw; Stuart Williams Who was voted Player of the Tournament at the end of IPL 2014?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

record in the women’s distance medley and took top honors in the men’s 4x800m relay.

Shannon Rowbury anchored the U.S. women home in 10 minutes 36.50 seconds in the medley with strong support from Treniere Moser, Sanya Richards-Ross and Ajee Wilson.

The relay, which has just become a world record event, consists of legs of 1200, 400, 800 and 1600m. Kenya were second and Poland third.

Robby Andrews led the U.S. men to a championship record 7:04.84 in the 4x800 with Poland second and Australia third.

Misfortune struck the Americans in the other final, the women’s 4x200, when Jeneba Tarmoh and Allyson Felix collided.

Nigeria claimed the victory in 1:30.52, with Jamaica second after the Bahamas were disqualified.

The relays concluded yesterday with Bolt likely getting a second chance to beat the Americans in the 4x200m.

Rahane stars in Royals win over Daredevils MUMBAI, India - Ajinkya Rahane (91 in 54 balls) and Karun Nair (61 from 38 balls) helped Rajasthan Royals (RR) register their sixth win of the season, beating Delhi Daredevils (DD) by 14 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2015 encounter at the Brabourne Stadium here yesterday.

Riding on a 113-run partnership by Rahane and Nair for the second wicket, Royals posted a challenging 189-2 in 20 overs.

In reply, Daredevils were never close to matching the skills displayed

by Royals and eventually ended their innings at 175-7 in 20 overs. Skipper J.P. Duminy was the top scorer for Daredevils with 56 runs off 39 balls.

With the defeat, Delhi suffered their fifth loss in the tournament.

Earlier, losing the toss and put in to bat, Rajasthan got off to a modest start, with openers Rahane and Shane Watson taking time to get settled in the middle.

But with couple of overs bowled, they took on the Daredevils bowling piling up the team’s first fifty in just 6.2 overs.

But as skipper Watson was looking to get settled, a surprising delivery by Angelo Mathews got him

caught by the wicketkeeper for 21 off 24 balls.

His wicket didn’t put the brakes on the scoring as Rahane took the reins from there on to strike the ball to all parts of the park.

Incoming batsman, Nair too held on quite eas-

The duo brought up their 100-run partnership for the second wicket in just 63 balls.

With his splendid innings, Rahane replaced Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner in the IPL 2015 leading run-scorers’

Ajinkya Rahane and Karun Nair during their 113-run partnership. ily to give good company to Rahane.

The duo took advantage of some poor fielding by the visitors to put 100 runs on the board in the 14th over.

Rahane struck nine fours and three sixes, whereas his partner Nair hit six boundaries and two sixes.

list with 430 runs.

Daredevils dropped three catches in the innings.

Gurinder Sandhu and Saurabh Tiwary dropped Rahane and Nair respectively and later on Amit Mishra and Zaheer Khan collided and dropped Rahane.

For Delhi, Mathews was the pick of the bowl-

ers, picking up one wicket and finishing with figures of 4-0-27-1 but other bowlers - Zaheer Khan, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Amit Mishra, Gurwinder Sandhu - all leaked heavy runs.

Chasing a challenging score of 189, Delhi got off to a worst possible start, losing both the openers Mayank Agarwal (11) and Shreyas Iyer (9) - within five overs.

Incoming batsman Yuvraj Singh too did not last long, scoring just 22 off 18 balls. Angelo Mathews (16) and Kedar Jadav (11) also departed in space of two overs.

This made it more difficult for Daredevils to chase the huge target. Skipper Duminy tried his best, but looking to up the scoring rate, he was caught by Dhawal Kulkarni off the bowling of James Faulkner.

With the dismissal of Duminy it looked all over for Delhi as wickets fell in clusters.

For Rajasthan, James Faulkner was the pick of the bowlers picking up two wickets and finishing with figures of 4-0-22-2.

Shane Watson finished with 4-1-25-1. Dhawal Kulkarni went for runs but picked up two wickets.

Stuart Binny also picked two wickets in his two overs.

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 4, 2015

Guyana down Suriname 57-50 to tie series

By Rawle Toney

AFTER falling to their rivals in game one, coach Darcel Harris said that his men will rebound and that they did when Guyana defeated Suriname 57-50 to even their three-game series on Saturday evening in Paramaribo.

The Guyanese ‘ballers’ turned in an impressive performance, thanks to their collective approach to the game.

As tired as the men from ‘GT’ were in the first game after arriving the same night of the game, they were still able to evenly match their Dutch rivals and vowed to return and fight harder, only wanting a good night’s rest.

Harris made a few changes to the team, bringing in Randy Richardson, Kurt Elias, Stephan Gillis and Chris Williams, to join Akeem Kanhai (captain), Ryan Gullen, Dave Causeway, Shelroy Thomas, Jer-

maine Slater, Travis Burnett, Harold Adams and Rudy James.

B e h i n d C a u s e w a y, Thomas and Kanhai, Guyana opened with a 6-0 run with Harris turning to his backcourt having an advantage in that department against Suriname.

Causeway, who ended the game with 13 points four steals and three assists, scored six of Guyana’s 18 first quarter points.

Leading 18-10 heading into the second period, Causeway, Gullen and Kanhai kept Guyana in the lead while in the front court Slater and James were manning the paint.

Suriname’s Yves Goedschalk (14 points) kept his team in the game and helped his country to claw their way back into the contest, but still trailed the visitors 27-35.

Though dominating the game, Guyana finished with 21 turnovers, and the cookie had started to crumble in the

third quarter.

Guyana shot 10-22 from the free throw line as a team, and it was their backcourt who were reckless with the ball. Kanhai (5), Causeway (6) and Thomas (4) accounted for 15 of their team’s total turnovers.

S u r i n a m e , h o w e v e r, failed to capitalise on the Guyanese ‘bad handle’ as both team went into a scoring slump.

Only Gullen (13 points 8 rebounds), Kanhai (9 points 7 rebounds 3 assists) and Thomas (9 points 3 assists 6 rebounds) scored in the third stanza, but the visitors still held on to a 43-35 advantage heading into the fourth and final period.

With Guyana still careless with the ‘rock’, Suriname sparked a comeback.

Stuck on 43 for at least halfway through the fourth, Guyana watched as Suriname controlled both ends of the floor.

Going on a 10-0 stroll

Jermaine Slater (left) and Dave Causeway against Guyana, Suriname were on the verge on staging an upset, until Gullen hit a deep three-pointer from the corner, just in front of the Guyanese bench and the crowd in the venue went

GCC ladies suffer two losses on day two of the T&T Hockey League THE GCC ladies hockey team suffered two losses on day two of the Trinidad and Tobago Hockey League on Saturday after winning their opening fixture on Friday.

According to Guyana Hockey Board’s (GHB) president Philip Fernandes, who is the team’s coach, the GCC ladies began their second competition day of three in a row with a hot midday clash against the Magnolias hockey club.

Despite another solid performance, the Guyanese suffered their first loss of the competition by 2-1.

The Guyanese started strong and applied a high defensive press from the opening whistle and this produced some good attacking play but their execution in the scoring area left a lot to be desired.

After a scoreless first half, star striker Stacey SuiButt and the Magnolias got a favourable break in the 35th minute when a lifted ball was tapped by Sui-Butt past advancing goalkeeper Briawna Gordon and rolled into the corner of the empty goal.

GCC managed to draw despite a powerful penalty corner strike by Kerensa Fernandes but Sui-Butt lighted up the hockey pitch once again, capitalising on a defence error by pouncing on the loose ball with a first-time shot into the back of the GCC net.

In the second match of the day, GCC came up against league leaders Paragon who had just come off a few impressive victories earlier last week.

GCC, however, took the early initiative through a Kerensa Fernandes penalty corner strike in the 5th minute. GCC then doubled their lead three minutes later with a brilliant counterattack up the

silent.

Slater had another impressive game on the ‘glass’, grabbing 11 rebounds to go along with his eight points that came from 4-4 shooting on the floor.

Slater’s rebounding en-

abled Guyana to get second-chance baskets and outlet fast break points, though Suriname outscored the Guyanese 14-16 in the final period.

The two sides met last evening for the final game.

By this time the earlier match had begun to take a toll on the GCC side whose pace slowed and Paragon wrested control of the match.

A second tip in on the far post and a skilful penalty corner deflection took the score to 4-2 in favour of Paragon, before a final Allana McLean penalty corner strike four minutes from the end sealed the score at 5-2 for Paragon.

GCC were scheduled to play Notre Dame yesterday at 11:30hrs and Checkers Hockey Club at 15:30hrs before returning home to prepare for their second stint in a couple of weeks’ time.

Welsh rugby player dies after cardiac arrest at match

Kerensa Fernandes is in possession of the ball and about to score against the Magnolias. left wing by Aliyah Gordon, feeding the ball to an open Shebiki Baptiste, who had run the length of the field, for the finish.

While GCC held the lead for 40 of the 60 minutes, a few lapses in concentration by the deep defence allowed Paragon back into the match, as Trinidad national captain Allana McLean converted a penalty stroke in the 34th minute and a Paragon deflection goal drew the score with 20 minutes left.

LONDON, (Reuters) - Welsh rugby league player Danny Jones died yesterday after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during an English third-tier match.

The Keighley Cougars player, 29, collapsed after being replaced early in the game and was treated by the match doctor and paramedics at the ground before being taken to hospital, where he later passed away.

He leaves five-month old twins.

Rugby Football League Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer said in a statement: “It is always devastating when someone so young dies in these circumstances.

“Danny was a popular and talented Rugby League player, having played at the highest level with the Wales National team and playing over 12 seasons for Keighley Cougars and Halifax.”

The match was abandoned after 16 minutes.

Heart attacks during professional sport have hit the headlines in recent years with a handful of high-profile cases.

Just last week, Belgian footballer Gregory Mertens, who collapsed on the pitch during a game for Lokeren, died aged 24.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Windies stun England by five wickets to draw series

West Indies captain Denesh Ramdin hugs Jermaine Blackwood after the West Indies romped to victory in the third Test at Kensington Oval. Man-of-the Match Blackwood was left unbeaten on 47Â to follow his top score of 85 on the previous day.

IN FULL FLOW: Left-hander Darren Bravo on one knee drives exquisitely during his top score of 82 yesterday.

(Photos by WICB Media/Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography) BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – West Indies beat England for the first time in six years when they staged a clinical run chase to stun the visitors by five wickets inside three days in the third Test here yesterday, and ensure a share of the threeTest series.

Chasing 192 for victory, the Windies were propelled by a superb top score of 82 from stylish left-hander Darren Bravo, as they reached their target late in the evening to seize their first win over England at Kensington Oval in 25 years.

Bravo anchored a crucial fifth-wicket stand of 108 with Man-of-the-Match Jermaine Blackwood who finished on 47 not out and fittingly ended the contest when he lifted off-spinner Moeen Ali over mid-on for his fourth boundary.

The pair came together five minutes after tea when veteran left-hander Shiv Chanderpaul was bowled without scoring, playing

on to seamer Jimmy Anderson, to the first ball of the second over after the resumption.

Tentatively poised then at 80 for four, Bravo and Blackwood safely navigated West Indies through the remaining two hours to deny England a series win and claim their only victory over their old foes in 16 years.

Bravo faced 148 balls in a shade over 3-1/2 hours at the crease and counted seven fours and three sixes while Blackwood, a right-hander, slammed four fours and a six off 104 balls in just under 2-1/2 hours.

Earlier, West Indies claimed the last five England wickets for 86 runs as England, resuming on 37 for five, failed to put up major lower order resistance.

They were undermined by seamer Jason Holder (3-15) and left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul (3-43) who both See page 31

Veerasammy Permaul celebrates with Denesh Ramdin after he dismisses Moeen Ali on day two of the third Test. The left-arm spinner goes on to take two more scalps on day three to finish with three for 43.

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