2015 7 31 by Guyana Chronicle

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It’s official! August 10 is Budget Day No. 104267

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Greenidge lays out law defending Guyana’s Maritime Zones Page

Minister Carl Greenidge

– three years jail, Amended FMA Act passed $2M fine for gov’t who in National Assembly ministers violate law Page

Local Gov’t elections likely early December

Minister Ronald Bulkan

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Finance Minister, Mr Winston Jordan (left) in amiable conversation with Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine (centre), and Communities Minister, Mr Ronald Bulkan (Photo by Adrian Narine)

– Minister Bulkan says there will be no further delay

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Akawini villagers benefit from FFTP $42M development project Youngsters in the presence of the Minister and FFTP Officials cut the ribbon to declare the project a success (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

The minister (extreme left) along with FFTP’s CEO, Kent Vincent, interacts with one of the villagers

VILLAGERS of Akawini, Pomeroon River, Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are now the beneficiaries of 27 houses and sanitation blocks, four cassava mills, a passenger boat and a cargo boat, all part of Food For the Poor (FFTP)’s $42M Akawini Development Project. Continuing their good work, FFTP has once again moved toward tackling poverty bit by bit; their support was timely as the villagers were in dire need of the assistance. Speaking at the ceremony yesterday, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe congratulated FFTP for their good work, stating that “the villagers can now be self-sustaining and work towards moving to a higher level.” The minister encouraged and challenged the villagers to take care of what they acquired and use it to the best of their abilities. According to the Chief Executive Officer of FFTP, Kent Vincent, his organisation is happy that it has

contributed to improving the living standards of the community, adding that his organisation will continue to embark on similar initiatives in other communities. He urged the residents to work, take care of the boats and effectively manage the operations of the cassava mills to get maximum benefits. Meanwhile, having been the one to approach FFTP for the assistance, former Toshao of the Village, Rudolph Wilson, expressed his gratitude to the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), noting that the villagers can now live a better life. Project Manager Andrea Benjamin explained the benefits of the project, stating that the boats will greatly enhance the villagers’ socio-economic status; the cargo boat will be utilised to transport lumber and other produce to the various markets including Charity, which will boost the earning capacity of persons residing in this community. While the passenger boat will enhance their ability to Turn to page 3 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

It’s official!

August 10 is Budget Day

The Opposition side of the House where the PPP/C is expected to take up its seats

Finance Minister, Mr Winston Jordan during one of his presentations in the House yesterday

By Derwayne Wills EVEN as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was notably absent from yet another sitting of the National Assembly since it began on June 10, Finance Minister Winston Jordan announced yesterday that August 10 will be the day for the presentation of the National Budget. This Budget is the inaugural budget of the David Granger-led A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition Government, which copped 33 out of 65 seats in the National Assembly after defeating the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic at the May 11 polls. PPP executive member and former Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon said at the Party’s press conference yesterday at its Robb Street headquarters, Freedom House, that the party could head to the National Assembly in time for the presenta-

tion of the National Budget. Luncheon did not specify the date the Party would be heading to Parliament. His statements to the press corps would have come hours before the announcement by the Finance Minister in the National Assembly. Customarily, Budget presentations are made in April of the fiscal year, but due to the November suspension of the National Assembly by former President, Mr Donald Ramotar, his later decision in February to dissolve the Parliament, and the intense May 11 elections campaign which saw an end to the 23-yearrule of the PPP/C, they are a bit late this year. STANDING ORDERS In the National Assembly yesterday, Vice-President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, in the absence of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, moved a Motion to suspend Standing Order 9. The Prime Minister was yesterday sworn in as

Akawini villagers benefit from... From page 2

traverse between the village and other neighbouring communities, as well as ensure timely access to medical attention which is something required to be accessed at Charity. The cassava mills are directly geared to enhance villagers’ ability to process cassava products, thereby en-

hancing their ability to earn. The elated Akawini villagers explained to the Chronicle that they are thankful for the kind gesture by FFTP; some even stated that they can now sleep comfortably when it rains, and they encouraged the FFTP officials to continue their good work.

Dr Roger Luncheon

acting President after the first session of the National Assembly, as President David Granger departed the country for Trinidad and Tobago. Standing Orders are rules of procedure which govern Guyana’s National Assembly. Standing Order 9 states, “Unless there are special reasons for so doing, no sitting of the National Assembly shall be held between the 10th August and the 10th October in any year.” The decision of the 33 APNU+AFC Parliamentarians to suspend the Standing Order 9 was supported by Standing Order 112, which provides, “Any one or more of the Standing Orders may be suspended, after notice, or with the leave of the Speaker, on a Motion by a member at any sitting.” The Standing Order, which was suspended in the National Assembly by the majority, customarily allowed for the National Assembly to go into recess. However, because of the circumstances surrounding the Parliament from late-2014 into mid-2015, the suspension of the Standing Order

Prime Minister Mr Moses Nagamootoo in discussion with Social Cohesion Minister, Ms Amna Ally before being sworn as acting President (Photos by Adrian Narine)

was crucial. The Standing Order was suspended to accommodate the Budget on or before the first day in September. Another Motion moved in the National Assembly yesterday relates to the representation of Government and Opposition in Parliamentary Sectoral Committees. These Committees are oversight bodies which scrutinise the operations of Government Ministries and some sectors. Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally moved the Motion to amend Standing Order 86 (2), which will now read, “Each Committee shall consist of seven (7) Members, four (4) representing the Government and three

(3) representing the Opposition, to be nominated by the Committee of Selection. The Government and Opposition shall be entitled to elect one alternate Member for each Sectoral Committee.” This Standing Order would have first been amended following the 2011 General Election, where the APNU and AFC Opposition parties secured 33 seats in the National Assembly in the 10th Parliament, with the Governing PPP/C holding 32 seats. The APNU and AFC had not yet formed the coalition that now forms the Government. The amendment will see the reconfiguration of the formula for representation in the sectoral committees where

the Government, by holding a majority in the National Assembly, will have majority representation in the Sectoral Committees. Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Barton Scotland was been advised by Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs that the recommendation to amend the Standing Order regarding the Sectoral Committees will be moved to the Standing Orders Committee for consideration at that level, but after some challenge by Governance Minister Raphael Trotman, who served as House Speaker in the 10th Parliament, the amendment was approved.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Religious assailant attacks Jerusalem Gay Pride parade, wounding six (Reuters) AN ultra-Orthodox Jewish man stabbed and wounded six participants, two of them seriously, in the annual Gay Pride parade in Jerusalem on Thursday, with police saying the suspect was jailed for a similar attack 10 years ago. About 5,000 people celebrating the event were marching along an avenue when a man jumped into the crowd, apparently from a supermarket, and plunged a knife into some of the participants, witnesses said. “ We h e a r d p e o p l e screaming, everyone ran for cover, and there were bloodied people on the ground,” Shai Aviyor, a witness interviewed on Israel’s Channel 2, said. It was the worst attack in

years on the event in Jerusalem, a divided city where the religious population is more prominent than in other parts of Israel and highlighted the tension nationwide among disparate social groups. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it “a despicable hate crime”, and President Reuven Rivlin warned that social intolerance could spell disaster for Israel. Police said they arrested the suspected perpetrator, an ultra-Orthodox man. Spokeswoman Luba Samri said he was the same assailant jailed for the stabbing of three marchers at a similar Jerusalem event in 2005. Israeli media said the suspect had been released from prison several weeks ago. The parade has long

been a focus of tension between Israel’s predominantly secular majority and the ultra-Orthodox Jewish mi-

nority, who object to public displays of homosexuality. Many devout Jews, Muslims and Christians criticize

homosexuality as an abomination of their beliefs. Gay marriages performed inside Israel are not recognized by

People disarm an Orthodox Jewish assailant shortly after he stabbed participants at the annual Gay Pride parade in Jerusalem July 30, 2015. The man stabbed and wounded six participants during the march on Thursday, police said. Reuters/Amir Cohen

DATE: 29/07/2015 M 02 03 07 28 06 20 09

30/07/2015

the authorities. Police and medics said the attacker wounded six people. Two were taken to hospital in serious condition, including a young woman, said a doctor at Shaarei Tzedek Hospital, where the victims were being treated. The march is held in the largely Jewish side of the divided city. Palestinians predominate in occupied East Jerusalem. Oded Fried, the head of a leading gay rights group, said the attack would not deter the movement. A similar Gay Pride event on June 12 in the more gay friendly business hub of Tel Aviv passed off without incident. “Our struggle for equality only intensifies in the face of such events,” Fried said. Netanyahu said Israel would prosecute those responsible to the full extent of the law, adding: “Freedom of individual choice is a basic value in Israel.” Rivlin, whose job as president is largely ceremonial, said: “We must not be deluded a lack of tolerance will lead us to disaster.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Security source: Jailbreak part of bigger plot (Trinidad Guardian) OFFICIALS at the Ministry of National Security are alleged to have discovered a plot to destabilise the country. The plot involves the importation of a shipment of arms and ammunition worth well over $10 million, which was to be used to create havoc in Port-of-Spain ahead of last Friday’s jailbreak at the Frederick Street prison by inmates Allan “Scanny” Martin, Hassan Atwell and Christopher Selby. The latest intelligence information revealed that the grenade found outside the Port-of-Spain Prison, which was said to have been used by Martin during the escape, was just one from a shipment of grenades and other high-tech arms and ammunition, including three rocket launchers, AK47s, M24 sniper rifles and Desert Eagles. The T&T Guardian was informed by an intelligence source that the shipment entered the country several weeks ago in the name of two businessmen from central and south Trinidad. It is alleged the businessmen are linked to a top criminal organisation in T&T. Sources said they linked Friday’s prison break to the shipment because the grenade which Martin had was from that shipment and had allegedly been smuggled into the Port-of-Spain prison. It is believed that after the trio shot their way to freedom in a well executed escape plan, Martin was supposed to throw the grenade over the prison walls, near the prison

officers’ dormitory. The impact of the explosion was expected to cause severe damage to the dormitory, where prison officers who had worked the night shift would have been resting before making their way home. The source said there were other people strategically placed outside several key government buildings within the capital, including the Ministry of National Security and the Hall of Justice, allegedly armed with other explosive devices. These individuals were instructed to set off these devices once Martin’s grenade had been activated at the prison. The sole purpose of these acts were to create massive panic and mayhem throughout the city among commuters, pedestrians, working community and national security personnel. “This information that we are gathering cannot be taken for granted. This is more serious than ever and should be taken seriously. It is in no way to cause panic among the citizens in T&T but it is the reality of the situation,” the source said. The source added that it was alleged that there was an army of people, both women and men, who were linked to a criminal organisation and who were already given Middle East military-type training in using the high-tech weapons which were on T&T shores. “These people are just waiting for the green light to go ahead with this plan,” the source said. It is alleged that prisoners Martin, Atwell and Selby, who allegedly brokered a mil-

People wait opposite the Frederick Street, Port-of-Spain, prison for visiting hours to begin yesterday. PHOTO: NICOLE DRAYTON lion-dollar deal with senior prison officers to secure their freedom last Friday, were allegedly part of the bigger plot. It is also alleged that two senior prison officers, believed to have been directly involved in the prison break plot, were also privy to the bigger plot. Last Friday at about 12.30 pm, Martin, Atwell and Selby shot their way out of the Frederick Street prison. PC Sherman May-

nard was shot as the escapees targeted the vehicle in which he was sitting. Maynard subsequently died at hospital. Martin was later killed by police at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital. Atwell and Selby escaped but Atwell was gunned down on Saturday night at East Dry River, Port-of-Spain. On Sunday, Selby surrendered at the Barataria Police Station.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

EDITORIAL Going after Official Corruption IT’S been quite a week on the political front. From Shawn Hinds’ revelations on possible state-sponsored crimes to the closure of the Water Rodney Commission of Inquiry to the charging of a former government Minister, the media and scribes have been kept very busy. Today we wish to comment on the latter story. Upon its assumption of office, the Coalition Government made it quite clear that investigation of alleged corruption of the former Government was high on its agenda. The Government even set up an agency to go after stolen public assets.

While in Opposition, the AFC and APNU were extremely critical of the PPP Government on this issue. The PPP had persistently denied that there was the level of corruption that the Opposition was accusing it of. In fact, the Government claimed that if there were corruption, it was in the lower echelons of the Government service. The PPP went as far as daring the Opposition to produce the evidence. Now, a bit under three months in office a Government Minister is before the courts for a range of offences that have to do with

misappropriation of public resources. These charges came after the Minister returned a set of cars that she allegedly improperly acquired to the Government. The Government did not at that time indicate that it would prosecute the Minister. A day after she appeared in court we are hearing of another matter in which the same minister is involved. According to the Government, the matter is in the hands of the police. No sooner had the ink dried on that matter, it was reported that the former Health Minister would most likely be charged in a mat-

ter that gained a lot of attention and led to his removal shortly before the elections as a Government Minister. The matter in question occurred at the Whim Magistrate Court when the Minister threatened to strip and beat political activist Sherlina Nageer. The PPP has predictably claimed that this is all part of a campaign by the Government to smear the party. While we sympathise with the PPP’s stand, we feel that that party had enough time while in office to deal with the allegations of corruption and arrogance on the part of their members.

Guyana

For the DPP to recommend charges, the evidence before her must have been compelling. In the final analysis, it is the courts which must pronounce on these matters. And one is considered innocent until proven guilty. But even if those charged are vindicated by the courts, enough has been revealed to suggest that there was corruption in high places. This is a scourge bedevilling Governments all over the

world, particularly in the so-called Third World. If the prosecution of these officials in Guyana can serve to highlight the issue of official corruption, then the country would be better off for it. While some may see it as witch-hunting, it could well serve as a deterrent against corruption under the current and future Governments. Our country is too poor to carry the burden of the level of corruption

2015 Budget to decide salary increases By Ravin Singh A HIGHLY anticipated move to increase public servants’ salaries is expected to be taken by the Coalition Government after the issue was touted extensively during the pre-elections campaign and even listed as part of its 100-day plan. But the realisation of this move by the two-month-old Administration will be revealed when the 2015 budget is presented in the National Assembly on August 10, 2015. This was confirmed yesterday by Minister of Finance Winston Jordan during an invited comment, though he refused to disclose whether there would be any increases this year, and if so, what percentage, offering rather that the presentation of the 2015 Budget will clear the air in this regard. Proposed too, had been a phased reduction and elimination of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on household commodities and essentials, which could result in increased spending power for citizens. But according to the

--Trade Unionists weigh in

Minister of Finance, Mr Winston Jordan

minister yesterday, while the Government remains committed to the fulfilment of its 100-day plan, a comprehensive study must be embarked upon to ascertain how the reduction of VAT must be implemented. Only by this means, he said, can the Government know what percentage of VAT can be reduced over what time-frame to sustain Guyana’s economy. The two promises detailed in the 100-day plan read: “Im-

mediately implement a phased reduction of VAT and the removal of VAT from food and other essential items” and “significant salary increases for Government workers, including nurses, teachers at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, security personnel and civil servants on the traditional payroll.” Weighing in on the realisation of the salary increases, which will benefit over 50 per cent of public sector workers, President of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), Mr Patrick Yarde said this move is “fully merited”. According to Yarde, who plays an integral role in representing public servants, “All competent, diligent, true and non-political public servants have been surpassing targets despite poor conditions and services rendered to them.” He explained that any move to either improve the conditions or services in terms of financial benefits for the public servant would be welcome, as they deserve

GPSU President, Mr Patrick Yarde

better. Just recently, the GPSU President said, a meeting with President Granger and the GPSU was held, and facilitated dialogue on concerns regarding the public sector. Subsequently, a delegation from the GPSU also met with a delegation from the Finance Ministry, and extensive discussions were featured. To this end, he noted that processes were agreed upon to the satisfaction of the union. Offering a comment on behalf of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) was General Secretary, Mr Lincoln Lewis, who told this

GTUC General Secretary, Mr Lincoln Lewis

publication that his Union had examined the issue of increased salaries “from a different perspective”. According to the veteran trade unionist, if the Government is serious about its plans to increase wages for public servants, they must first address the root cause of the problem, which he opined was “bunching”. This “bunching”, he said, could be described as a person working at an agency for 10 years, and a colleague working at the same institution for three years, and the two receiving the same

salary. His rationale is that issues of this nature must be addressed, if the solutions to financial inadequacies are to be unlocked. But for this “de-bunching” to be arrived at, Lewis suggests: “They [the Government] must sit down with the Unions and address these issues, and come up with a strategy,” which he reiterated will unlock solutions to the problems facing the sector. Just recently, in a press statement issued by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) following a consultation on the 2015 Budget, the party revealed that the Finance Minister had advised that there would be “no removal of VAT” and “no 20% salary increases” for Government employees. Additionally, it was stated that Jordan had advised the Party that his ministry was still in the process of preparing a three-month budget, which it is proposed will be laid in the National Assembly on August 10, 2015. This budget, he said, will project a three-per-cent economic growth, and concentrate on boosting aggregate demand.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

Local Gov’t elections likely early December

--Minister Bulkan says there will be no further delay or the tide, will wait on one; it will not be delayed, it will not be deferred any longer; the citizens’ right will no longer be treated with callous disregard,” he said, stressing that the necessity for local democracy and development will not be at the whims of his “absent friends”. The PPP in their 2011 manifesto had promised to hold local government elections in the first

By Tajeram Mohabir THE long-awaited local government elections is expected to be held in early December, bringing an end to the decaying local government system. The announcement was made by Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan in an address to the House yesterday, following a meeting with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “I have been assured [by the GECOM Secretariat] and I verily believe that once such approval is granted, that GECOM will be able to hold the elections in early December or well before the Christmas,” the minister said. The Elections Commission will be meeting on August 18, following which a formal decision will be made on the date for the elections. Minister Bulkan, in June, had announced to the House the Administration’s desire to hold local government elections in November. But the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), in a press statement soon after the minister’s announcement, contended that given the reality, it would not be possible for

elections prominent on their agenda, if elected to office. The elections in early December will be a fulfilment of its manifesto promise. Local Government Elections were last held in 1994. Minister Bulkan told the House that the long delay in the holding of the elections has resulted in the damaging of many local democratic organs and

He reported that the Administration has set about fixing the broken system through a three-step approach: Namely, democratic renewal, institutional strengthening and capacity-building, and funding for Councils. The PPP’s reluctance to hold Local Government Elections when in power, the minister surmised was due to their

My response to the PPP is that these elections, like time or the tide, will wait on one; it will not be delayed, it will not be deferred any longer; the citizens’ right will no longer be treated with callous disregard’ -- Minister of Communities, Mr Ronald Bulkan year if re-elected to office.

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan Bulkan told the House, from the elections to be held this year. which the Main Opposition According to the former Party again chose to be absent, Administration, the nation that he is unaware of the reality should be expecting the electhe former Administration was tions to be held in the second referring to. half of 2016. “My response to the PPP is Making reference to the that these elections, like time PPP/C press statement, Minister

FAILED PROMISE However, on re-election, notwithstanding constant reminders, including from non-governmental organisations and the ABC countries, and protests by then Opposition Leader David Granger, and 23 years in office, the PPP failed to honour its promise to the people. The A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (AFC) coalition, during the last elections campaign, had the holding of local government

a degrading of their capacity. These, he said, have rendered them dysfunctional. “They do not have the capacity to execute their tasks and to discharge their responsibilities to the people in the various jurisdictions,” the minister said. These effects he said are evident countrywide, and more recently, were manifest during the heavy rainfall. It has made the citizenry painfully aware of the dysfunctional system of local administration, Minister Bulkan noted.

fear of people being empowered to manage their own affairs and the people being liberated. But, he contended, local government elections have little to do with politics and everything to do with giving the people their constitutional right to take care of their communities. And on that note, he called on the Main Opposition Party to support the work of GECOM, and the constitutional right of the populace to have Local Government Elections sooner, rather than later.

Amended FMA Act passed in National Assembly

--three years jail, $2M fine for gov’t ministers who violate law By Derwayne Wills THE Fiscal Management & Accountability (Amendment) (FMA) Bill, presented by Finance Minister Winston Jordan was passed yesterday in the National Assembly. The Bill, which will be put before President David Granger for his assent, complements the recently passed Constitution (Amendment) Bill, and will grant further financial autonomy to constitutional agencies, allowing them to draw directly from the treasury, with little interference from the executive arm of the Government. Like the Constitution Bill, the FMA Bill suffered a similar fate in the 10th Parliament, whereby it was approved by the then A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance

For Change (AFC) Opposition parties, which held a majority in the Assembly, but were rejected by former President, Mr Donald Ramotar, who withheld his assent. The objective of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill was to allow constitutional agencies to carry out their constitutional functions without interference from the government. Those agencies include the Public, Police, Teaching and Judicial Service Commissions; the Public Service Appellate Tribunal; the Supreme Court; Office of the Ombudsman; and Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The minister went on to cite the infamous quote by renowned Guyanese poet, Martin Carter, “The mouth is muzzled by the hand that

feeds it,” as the justification for the legislation. “Constitutional agencies exhibit three distinct features,” the Finance Minister told the Assembly last night in the absence of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). “They are constitutionally created, and hence may not be abolished by statutes.” He noted that those constitutional bodies are given functions which cannot be reduced by legislation, and finally, those bodies are expressly independent. “These bodies are expected to institute their mandates without fear or favour, affection or ill-will… without regard for the overpowering and sometimes oppressive presence of ‘Big Brother’,” Jordan said. There are some opinions however that such legislation

will see some abuse from budget agencies, but this opinion was supposedly laid to rest by Minister within the Ministry of Finance Jaipaul Sharma, who took to the floor in the National Assembly to speak on behalf of the proposed legislation. Sharma spoke directly in his address about a clause in the principal act which states that officials who “conspire to defraud or knowingly permit a breach of the FMA Act are guilty of an indictable offence, and liable, on conviction, to a fine of $2M and imprisonment for three years.” He noted that in the previous Act, which was amended last night, accountability for ministers was not expressly spelt out. But in the amendments, he said, “Under this Government, Ministers of Gov-

Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Mr Jaipaul Sharma ernment found guilty of an indictable offence under section 85 (of the principal Act) will be liable to conviction to a fine of $2M and to imprisonment for three years.” Finance Minister Jordan

sought to clarify to the Assembly that it is not that the legislation seeks to place some agencies outside of the budget proSee Page 10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Greenidge lays out law defending Guyana’s Maritime Zones AGAINST the backdrop of a claim made via presidential decree by Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro against Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Vice-President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has laid the Maritime Zones (Internal Waters and River Closing Baselines) Regulations 2015 in the National Assembly. The Regulations, enacted by the Guyana Government on July 23 of this year, prescribe the closing of line across the mouths of Guyana’s three largest rivers, namely, the Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice Rivers. The Minister was keen to note that establishing the baselines allows for the regime to maintain sovereignty over zones within its jurisdiction, in keeping with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

(UNCLOS). These regulations build on the Maritime Zones Act of Guyana, which was enacted in 2010. “The enactment of the 2010 legislation allowed Guyana to properly safeguard its rights, and to meet its international obligations under current international law on the wider aspect of the Law of the Sea,” the Foreign Minister told the National Assembly yesterday. “Those zones of jurisdiction are the Territorial Sea, the Contiguous Zone, the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the Continental Shelf,” Minister Greenidge said, adding: “Guyana is now in a position to determine and safeguard the zones and jurisdictions under which she is entitled in relation to UNCLOS and general international law.” The baselines of the three rivers

allow Guyana to guard its territory against acts of aggression like those of President Nicolás Maduro. “If a river flows directly into the sea, the baseline shall be a straight line across the mouth of the river, between the points in the lower water-line of its banks,” Minister Greenidge said, citing Article 9 of the UNCLOS. Article 16 of that Convention, he added, states that baselines shall be shown on charts of a scale adequate to ascertaining their position. These boundaries also grant Guyana full economic rights in these territories. “As a State party to UNCLOS, Guyana has an obligation, under international law, by virtue of Articles 9 and 16 of that Convention, to properly delimit its internal waters,” Minister Greenidge said. (Derwayne Wills)

Foreign Minister, Mr Carl Greenidge at Parliament yesterday

Gov’t to give teachers laptops – will equip them to deliver curriculum electronically By Shivanie Sugrim RECOGNISING that the education system “is on life support”, Government has moved to channel the last batch of 10,000 laptops from the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) project towards teachers for the better delivery of curriculum in schools. Governance Minister Raphael Trotman, while addressing the weekly Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, said that there is a possibility that the One Laptop Per Family programme would be modified to a One Laptop Per “Teacher” initiative, in order to properly equip teachers with the instruments to deliver the curriculum in a more “electronic” manner, given

that Guyana’s technological position is at a setback. This last batch of laptops is expected to arrive soon, Trotman said. As such, Government is moving to invest teachers with laptops so that they can provide first-hand information to students rather than relying on text-books to deliver content to students. The laptops will also aid in the delivery of Information Technology in schools. “The programme has to be tied to other programmes to ensure that the teachers use them effectively for training and for improving their methodologies for delivering their curriculum in a more electronic manner,” Minister Trotman advised. In implementing this, the Minister said, training

schools will most likely be established so that teachers will be able to carry out the initiative efficiently, as they will be the primary focus of the project. Although there are periodic displays of excellence in the Caribbean Secondary School (CSEC) and the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) Examinations, Trotman, like Education Minister Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, believes that the education system is dwindling. Convinced that the education system is on “life support” Dr. Roopnaraine has recently issued a directive to carry out audits in schools countrywide. The results of the audits have confirmed the Minister’s conviction that the system is indeed “creaking”

and is on “life support”. The reason for the system “creaking”, as is reported, is the long existence of “outmoded” methods that belong to a previous era. In hemming this downfall, Dr. Roopnaraine has said the system needs to be equipped with new technologies for Guyana to see an actual revolution in terms of education delivery. The Government has therefore taken this into consideration and has decided to push for technological advancement in schools, starting with investing laptops in teachers. Sharing similar views to those of Dr. Roopnaraine and Trotman is President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), Mark Lyte, who told this publication that salary

increases for teachers is not sufficient for an enhancement package; what is needed is also to equip the teachers with better instruments to deliver the content in schools. The One Laptop Per Family Project recently received a visit from Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who dismissed approximately 45 employees. In justifying this move in one section of the media, Harmon said: “It was not wise to have so many persons employed in the project when there is no work for them to do.” Malfunctioning laptops were one of the startling discoveries made during Minister Harmon’s visit to the OLPF headquarters recently. He detailed that while some were stacked up and not being utilised, the money for the project is being used to pay staff that are not “doing

anything.” Trotman reiterated similar sentiments and highlighted that the move to dismiss employees at OLPF was not a “political” decision, but one in which the Government felt the project was fiscally unsustainable in its current state. According to a News Source article, Harmon made it clear that the Administration does not plan to scrap the project, but rather re-organise it. Further clarification coming from the Minister also indicates that the project was stalled and is now linked with the E-Governance Project, where an approximately 12 OLPF staff members will be employed. This project was one of the many projects initiated by the former administration.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

House approves Bill empowering NDCs By Tajeram Mohabir THE Local Government (Amendment) Bill 2015 ,which includes Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in the local Government system for all purposes was yesterday passed in the National Assembly. The Bill makes some consequential amendments, increases penalties in a number of areas, and gives the Legal Affairs Minister the power to prescribe, by Order, fees payable for any process, including the process of parate execution. The Legislation, addresses, inter alia, the age-old problem of wanton disposal of garbage, which often impedes the free flow of water in the drainage system. When the Bill becomes law, any proprietor or occupier or anyone acting on behalf of a proprietor or occupier who fills in or interrupts the free flow of water in a waterway meant to provide drainage and irrigation in any local authority district, will be liable to a summary conviction and a fine of not less $300,000, nor more than $500,000. A further fine of $10,000 will be applied for each day the offence continues after conviction. The Bill also provides for the local authority, acting on the written instruction of the Minister, to remove the blockage in the waterway, and add any expenditure incurred in the removal of the blockage to the rates payable by the proprietor of the

Attorney-General, Mr Basil Williams

property. A fine of $20,000 will be charged for the littering of any public street or road or parapet in a local authority, or dumping of any domestic or commercial or industrial or hazardous garbage in an area not designated as a place for dumping garage. A fine of $5000 will be imposed for each day that the offence continues after due and proper notice was given. ESTABLISHMENT OF NDCS The Legislation also provides for the establish-

ment and maintenance of a constabulary for each NDC maintained by the Councils from their own resources. In addition, members of each Constabulary may bear arms, in accordance with regulations made by the Minister, and enjoy all the powers, privileges and immunities conferred on a Police Constable by any law for the time being in force. This aside, the Bill provides the local authority of a neighbourhood, village or country district, with approval of the Minister, to exempt on the ground of poverty any

lot or building from the payment of any rates under the Principal Act. The Minister also may, for any purpose for which a local authority is authorised to make by-laws, cause those by-laws to have effect in any neighbourhood, village or country district. Piloting the Bill, Minister of Communities, Mr Ronald Bulkan informed the House that the legislation has its genesis in constructional reform, following the upheaval that accompanied the 1997 Regional and General Elections. The unrest resulted in then leaders of the PPP/C and the Opposition signing the Herdmanston Accord, which de-escalated the conflict which was taking a toll on the country. One of the recommendations of the Accord was the strengthening of the system of local Government, which Minister Bulkan said is vital for local democracy, as it allows for respectful and meaningful decision-making at the level of local Government. REBIRTH OF LOCAL DEMOCRACY The Local Government (Amendment) Bill 2015, he said, is vital to this process. “The passage of this Bill will pave the way for the rebirth and renewal of local democracy in our country; it will enable the Administration to set about the task to repair the broken system that we have inherited. Mr Speaker, the management

Public Security Minister, Mr Khemraj Ramjattan

of communities is not the direct responsibility of the Central Government, but rather of Local Government; this is what our Constitution provides, Mr Speaker,” the Minister said. National Security Minister, Mr Khemraj Ramjattan said the Bill diffuses power at the central levels, and invests it in the NDCs, which are more knowledgeable, and would be better able to address situations peculiar to them. The establishment of Constabularies at NDCs, he said, is an auxiliary to the

Police Force supporting the maintenance of peace and order, but in their respective communities. Attorney-General, Mr Basil Williams contends that a strong local government system empowers the citizenry, allows for greater scope in building social cohesion, and the harnessing of the best talents in the service of the people. APNU/AFC Members of Parliament also spoke on the Bill. And despite some expectation, the PPP/C again did not show up in Parliament.

Gov’t amends Customs Act AFTER agreeing to a payment of some US$6.2M to the Surinamese company, Rudisa Beverages, over a Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruling against Guyana’s “discriminatory” environmental tax, the National Assembly yesterday passed the Customs (Amendment) Bill, which could leave a significant dent on the country’s finances. The section of the Act which was under appeal gave the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) the power to collect an environmental tax on every unit of non-returnable containers of imported beverages. The Bill was presented by Finance Minister, Mr Winston Jordan, but it was

--Guyana could lose out on close to $1B

Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister, Mr Basil Williams who has been representing the Guyana Government in the matter, which is set for final hearing today at the CCJ in Trinidad and Tobago. Williams said the government will be paying the US$6.2M agreed reduction from the settlement with the Surinamese company. That money is expected to be paid by January 31 of next year. In another measure, as required by the CCJ, Guyana will, as of today (July 31, 2015) cease collecting the environmental tax. Guyana’s Finance Min-

ister is convinced, however, that Guyana might have had a stronger case at the level of the CCJ than it is being given credit for. Jordan cited the constitutional obligation of the State to protect Guyana’s environment for use by future generations. To this end, Jordan sought to defend the environmental tax in the National Assembly, saying that the Surinamese company should not have been awarded damages, since the losses claimed by the company would have already been recovered from the sale of their products in Guyana. “It was submitted that

the claimants (Rudisa) had already recovered their loss by the general commercial practice of adding on the cost incurred as a result of the environmental levy to the selling price,” Minister Jordan said, citing the argument put forward by Guyana to the CCJ. Guyana has presented no evidence to show that Rudisa had, in fact, passed on the tax to consumers buying their products. Similarly, Jordan noted the negative impact that the non-collection of the tax would have on Guyana’s treasury, since it has contributed some $1B thus far. In further defense of the

tax, Jordan cited the Organisation for Economic Development and Cooperation (OECD), which describes environmental taxes as economic instruments to address environmental problems, and a means of providing economic incentives for people and businesses to promote ecologically-sustainable activities. Foreign Minister, Mr Carl Greenidge took to the floor to decry that when the former PPP/C government imposed the environmental tax, “it was not unaware that it infringed the Treaty.” He rejected the notion of the PPP/C to lay blame to

his party for the judgement, which could see Guyana having to pay more than US$1B in compensation. The PPP/C had sought to amend the act, and that was prevented by the then APNU and AFC opposition parties in the 10th Parliament in 2014. Speaking against statements of this nature from the PPP/C, Greenidge said the PPP/C’s amendment was not to a reduction of the tax but revising its application. Attorney-General Williams will join counsel for the Rudisa Beverage Company and the panel of judges at the CCJ to finalise the settlement between the Government and the Surinamese Company via video conference at the Court of Appeal, here in Kingston. (Derwayne Wills)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Courts maintains reputation of good corporate citizen

– donates to GPF, awards winners of promotion COURTS Guyana Inc. yesterday set the stage for being a good corporate citizen when it made donations to separate entities at their head office at Main Street, Georgetown. The first presentation of

a suite was made to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), with Constable Melissa Gibson and Sergeant Denise Moore receiving on behalf of the Force. They said that the suite will be utilised by ranks and

Courts Public Relations and Promotions Officer Roberta Ferguson, with Sergeant Denise Moore and Constable Melissa Gibson during the presentation of the suite yesterday

others at the Inspectors and Sergeants Mess at Eve Leary, and expressed their gratitude to the furniture giant for their gift in observance of the 176th anniversary celebrations of the GPF for the month of July.

Courts Guyana Inc. also awarded winners, who, during the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL), participated in the Courts promotion on TCL smart tvs, whereby customers got a chance to win

free Netflix subscriptions for one year. They are Richard Mohan, Deon Dublin, Joyce Sullivan, Sivanand Rukhram, Kirt Mc Pherson, Deoranje Ramcharran, David Hussain, Krishana Elliot, Tiffany Simon and Shivram Kheshoram. Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings said Courts is

the only authorised dealer in Guyana for the TCL brand of smart television, since they buy directly from the supplier and will have much more such promotions in which customers can benefit. Also present was Courts Public Relations and Promotions Officer Roberta Ferguson, who made the presentations yesterday.

Courts’s Roberta Ferguson with some of the 10 winners of the Courts TCL smart tv promotion, in which winners received one year free Netflix subscriptions (Photos by Delano Williams)

CGX Inc gifts $1M to ACDA – for Emancipation celebrations AS the platinum sponsor of this year’s Emancipation celebrations, the Canadian oil and gas exploration Company, CGX energy Inc. yesterday donated $1M to the African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) to offset its Emancipation celebrations. Chairman of CGX Energy Inc., Professor Suresh Narine said that the company

has a comprehensive corporate social responsibility programme, in which they place specific focus on education, culture and development and is always pleased to contribute to that kind of engagement since it fits well in to its corporate and social agenda. The company views ACDA and its Emancipation programme as being im-

portant to cultural education and the organisation plays a tremendous part in communities all across Guyana, not only for the emancipation celebrations, but also throughout the year. Narine also mentioned that the post-Emancipation activities have helped shape our country, it’s economic and unity aspects. He also pledged with all Guyanese to participate in the celebrations, which he deemed an

important part of our cultural landscape, and called on all Guyanese to participate. Executive committee member of ACDA, Ms Aisha Jean- Baptiste welcomed the donations made by CGX. She was delighted that the donation would allow children free entry to the event. The contribution would also assist them with the various activities they have planned for this year’s celebrations.

Amended FMA Act passed... but that the legislation seeks to enhance the independence of the constitutional agencies while giving them complete control of finances. There are, he continued, “built-in mechanisms that safeguard against abuse of this new- found

freedom, consistent with the constitutional imperative which imposes on such bodies, a duty to manage subventions in conformity with financial practices and procedures approved by the National Assembly. “These agencies will

be prevented from opening commercial bank accounts and depositing the lump s u m i n t o i n t e r e s t - b e a ring accounts. They will be required to return any unspent balance to the treasury at the end of the year,” the Finance Minister continued.

ACDA’s Aisha Jean -Baptiste receiving the cheque from CGX Energy’s Professor Suresh Narine (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

From page 7

He said, too, that the agencies will be required to keep records and charts as customary. The Finance Minister will have the authority solely to comment in a timely manner on the total of funds requested by agencies as opposed to line-by-line scrutiny.

These measures, according to Jordan, are to prevent the administration from micromanaging and stipulating what should be given, and when it should be given to agencies that should function separately from the executive. Only in special cir-

c u m s t a n c e s w h e re t h e economy is in a dire situation and the opera tions of all Government agencies are expected to be scaled back, will the constitutional agencies be expected to do the same, the Finance Minister assured.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

Shawn Hinds released on $100,000 bail

SELF-confessed “death squad” member and former policeman Shawn Hinds was yesterday released on $100,000 station bail after being in custody since Monday. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, when contacted yesterday by this publication, confirmed that Hinds is now on station bail, and is expected to visit the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) sometime today as part of the conditions of his bail. There were many, including Hinds himself, who thought that the police would have charged the former policeman with past crimes immediately after he was placed into custody; or maybe that the police would have sought an extension to keep the

SHAWN HINDS Hinds would be required to make himself available to the police thereafter. Yesterday, Crime Chief

former cop beyond the 72-hour detention period. After his visit to the CID today, it is not clear how often

Wendell Blanhum would not say if Shawn Hinds had been cooperating with the investigators, but other persons familiar with the investigation have indicated that after a few days of refusing to speak with the police, Hinds would share some amount of information that can help the police in the areas of their investigations. Shawn Hinds turned himself over to the police on Monday after this publication reported that the police were moving to issue a wanted bulletin for him. He turned himself over to the police in the company of his lawyer, Nigel Hughes who reportedly instructed him not to say anything to the police, and he took that advice very seriously.

Shawn Hinds, in an interview with television journalist Travis Chase, spoke on several issues which got the attention of police investigators and among them was him confirming that he was part of a “death squad,” which was reportedly ran by a former Government minister in the PPP/C Administration. The police had also expressed an interest in Hinds after he was identified as the person who was reportedly spotted staking out the private residence of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. A report to that effect was made to the police and the police had from that time been trying to get their hands on Hinds. Hinds, however, denied that

he ever staked out the residence of the Prime Minister (PM), even as personnel attached to the PM’s security detail did confirm that it was indeed Hinds in a vehicle that carried a registration plate, which was later found to be a faked one. Several high-ranking and high-profile individuals within the PPP/C and former members of the Guyana Police Force, as well as serving members have been implicated by Hinds during his interview with Chase. The police are also now in possession of the interview and their line of questioning of the former policeman are being guided to some extent, on the basis of what he revealed during the interviews.

Curtain comes down today on Emancipation extravaganza

--on downtown Main Street

One of the many booths along the avenue on Main Street

Patricia Helwig as she does a head-wrap for a customer at her booth

By Michel Outridge THE 176th Emancipation commemmoration in Guyana will take place tomorrow, and to mark the occasion, an exhibition and sale is now on in the avenue along Main Street, Georgetown, where booths were set up showcasing various African clothing and jewellery, among other things. There were about 10 booths since the exhibition and sale started on Monday, and one of the exhibitors/vendors Patricia Helwig, who is also a designer/ caterer, did African-style headwraps for customers. Helwig has on display a wide variety of tailored African prints, which she made herself, but noted that sales this year

unlike others are a bit slow due to bad weather; but people were still coming out to give support and a few sales were effected. She told this newspaper that her dashiki and other African clothing are very reasonably priced, and she does her own thing as it relates to styling of her clothes for sale. A head-wrap costs $2000 and she encouraged Guyanese to take advantage of her services since the exhibition and sale ends today. Another vendor, Junior Vancooten, who had on display a wide variety of hand-crafted jewellery, from chains to earrings and bands, among other pieces, said the event

was well received, and given his 17 years in the making of fashion and culture jewellery, his pieces are genuine and of excellent quality.

still alive in communities or in normal Guyanese life, and these are colourfully revived or exhibited on the first of August.

EMANCIPATION The inhumane system of slavery was abolished on August 1, 1834 in all British colonies, including British Guiana, now Guyana. While the British Emancipation Act was passed in 1833, it came into force in 1834. The Emancipation Act catered for a period of transition called the apprenticeship system under which the ex-slaves were still subjected to their former masters. This apprenticeship system lasted for another four years, 1834-1838, after which “full freedom” was achieved, bringing to an end the atrocious system of slavery which for centuries had brought so much pain, suffering, and bitterness. But Emancipation also meant the triumph of the African spirit and the significance of its anniversary takes on a distinctly African identity. It is an occasion for recalling the significance of all the factors mentioned above, but the people take the opportunity to highlight whatever they can of African cultural vestiges. Several of the African cultural survivals have weakened considerably, disappeared, or are no longer practised in their original forms, but others are

ACTIVITIES There are many public and highly visible exhibitions which mark the celebrations from the end of July. The activities in this festival include demonstrations of folk and village games; the exhibition and sale of craftwork, using African motifs and styles; craftwork and artifacts made out of indigenous materials; artwork, drawings and paintings; food with an emphasis on “African” cuisine; “local” and “creole” food items and drinks; booths displaying posters, photographs, books and other printed materials providing information on history and African affairs. Other events which attempt to recapture past customs include the “Vigils” and “Libation ceremonies” on the night before Emancipation Day. This is usually a very busy night for activities. An important highlight of the Vigil is the Libation Ceremony, which is performed at midnight as a rite of passage into August 1. It is also a surviving or revived African ritual of ceremonial offerings, tributes and prayers to the spirits of the ancestors. The details of the ceremony vary from place

Junior Vancooten at his culture and fashion jewellery booth showcasing his hand-made pieces (Photos by Delano Williams)

to place, but it is essentially the pouring of libation, often alcoholic spirits -white rum, but different symbolic liquids may be used by different people- as an offering to the deities for their blessing, protection and guidance, or as thanksgiving for safe passage in the affairs of men. The kind of spirits used is significant because the ritual seeks to invoke the spirits or otherwise communicate with them. It is an old African ritual belonging to the principles of ancestor worship. SOIRÉE GALORE There is also the traditional holding of “soirées.” This derives from the French word, soir/soirée, and describes an evening or an evening of entertainment or a fete. Although Guyana is not historically a Francophone country, a few French terms exist in common use, and “soirée” is one

of them, but there has been no known investigation into how it came to be used. Two Guyanese villages in West Berbice are known for the soirée tradition: Hope Town and Lichfield. Here there is a grand street party with drumming, recorded music, sometimes some other performances and recorded music. Festivities proceed through the night, ending at no specific time in the wee hours of the morning. There is much dancing and drinking. These are the main public activities through which Guyana commemorates the anniversary of Emancipation each year. Although Emancipation is of defined universal significance and is of interest to the entire nation of Guyana, it is an occasion for the celebration of the country’s African heritage and includes a fair amount of traditions, exhibits and performances.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

FAM to host Emancipation Weekend of activities in Buxton

– First Lady, Education Minister among guest speakers THE First of August Movement of Buxton (FAM) will host an Emancipation Weekend of activities in the village to mark the 177th Anniversary of the end of slavery under the theme, “175 years as a community”, which highlights the 175th anniversary of the founding of the historic village. In a press release,the FAM said it hopes to use this year’s observances to launch a village revitalisation movement aimed at addressing the problems in the community through socio-economic and cultural development initiatives. Today, there will be the annual Emancipation Eve Extravaganza, and the night’s activity will start with a libation and spiritual service at the Emancipation Monument at the Market Square at 16:00hrs.

First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger

This would be followed by a cultural programme at the Buxton Railway Embankment starting at 20:00hrs. The programme will include drumming, drama, dancing, storytelling,

Dr Rupert Roopraraine

steelpan music, calypso, the telling of ‘Nancy Stories’ and folk-singing. The main attraction would be the legendary Yoruba Singers band, while Minister of Governance, Mr Raphael Trotman will deliv-

er the feature address. Tomorrow, there will be an Emancipation Day G e t - To g e t h e r, w h e r e b y young people would host the elders of the village at a “Day of Feasting and Merriment” at the Friendship Primary School, beginning at mid-day. A major village initiative is expected to be launched at this activity, and the featured speaker will be First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger. On Sunday, August 2, there will be an “Education Groundings” with Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine at the Friendship Primary School, beginning at 13:00hrs. Dr. Roopnaraine will engage members of the community on his vision for education and hear from them about their ideas for education reform.

Melrose Henry elected Toshao of Capoey COMMUNITY Development Officer of Amerindian communities in Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Ms Melrose Henry, is the new Toshao of Capoey Village on the Essequibo Coast after winning, by a single vote, a second election conducted on Tuesday July 28. According to reports, Ms Henry was tied on 97 votes with Esther Rodrigues for the Toshao position when the first election was conducted by the Hinterland Affairs Department of the Regional Administration on July 21. Another election for the position of Toshao was then scheduled for July 28 in the village. Reports are that after the election was conducted, Ms Henry received a total of 114 votes, and Ms Rodrigues got 113.

Newly-elected Capoey Toshao, Ms Melrose Henry

Some persons who did not vote at the first election turned up and cast their ballot at the second election to elect the Toshao of their choice.

Woman, 54, Handyman remanded for bail allegedly murdering employer refused – on drug-trafficking charge

A HANDYMAN accused of killing his employer was yesterday remanded to prison after he appeared before Magistrate Leron Daley at the Providence Magistrates Court. Anthony Rammit of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara, was not required to plead to the indictable charge that said between Wednesday, April 15 and Thursday, April 16,2015 at Lot 97 Collingswood Avenue, Nandy Park, East Bank

Demerara, he murdered Farouk Ghanie Persaud also known as “Brother,” during the course or furtherance of a robbery. Police Inspector Michael Grant, prosecuting, told the court that on April 15, the businessman Persaud left his home and went to his place of business on Regent Street, Georgetown. According to the prosecution, Persaud returned home around 18:00hrs on the said day and around

20:00hrs on the night of April 15, the accused and two other men were seen at his premises and were also seen leaving some time after in a hurry. Later on April 16, around 07:20hrs, neighbours found the body of Persaud lying at the back of his yard in a pool of blood with wounds to the left side of his chest and cheek. Police were summoned to the scene and they found that the deceasd’s firearm, cellphone and other items

were missing. Investigations were carried out which led to the arrest of Rammit, however, during interrogation he confessed to killing the businessman and provided the police with a caution statement. The accused admitted that he and two other men had robbed Persaud and killed him. The unrepresented man is scheduled to make his next court appearance, on Monday, October 12, 2015.

Police fatally wound armed bandit – in Upper Corentyne armed robbery TWENTY-three-year-old Delroy Cort of Manchester Village, Corentyne Coast Berbice was fatally shot by the police during an armed robbery at #61 Vil-

lage, Corentyne, Berbice on Wednesday last. Police report that at about 14:15 hrs on July 29 last, a man and a woman informed ranks of a mobile patrol that

they had been held up in the No. 61 Village beach area by two men armed with shotguns, and were deprived of their cash, jewellery and two cell phones. The police pursued and caught up with the armed men, and in the ensuing con-

frontation, the ranks were fired upon. They returned fire, fatally wounding Delroy Cort, while his accomplice managed to escape. An unlicensed 12-gauge shotgun, two cartridges and the two stolen cellphones were recovered by the police.

Pouderoyen man pleads not guilty to ganja charge A TWENTY-year-old man was yesterday granted $20,000 bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan after answering a narcotics charge. Ronald Roach, who resides at Lot 23 Middle Street, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty

to the charge that said on Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at Georgetown, he had in his possession six grammes of cannabis-sativa (marijuana). The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-Law Mr. Adrian Thompson, who told the court that on the day

in question, police were on an anti-drug raid and searches were being conducted on several persons, when the suspected narcotics were found in a bag that belongs to Roach but not in his possession. However, Police Prose-

cutor Dinero Jones made a failed application for bail to be denied, after citing the seriousness of the offence. Bail was granted and the matter was transferred before Magistrate Alex Moore, for Friday, August 7, 2015.

A FIFTY-four-year-old labourer of Lot 68, Leopold Street, Werk-en-Rust,Georgetown, was yesterday refused bail by Magistrate Ann McLennan on a drug-trafficking charge. Avril Lavern Crowter denied the charge that said on Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at Cross and Leopold Streets, Georgetown, she had in her possession 17 grammes of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Crowter told the court that she lives with her guardian Roxanne Wilson at the address mentioned and works as a labourer at the Linden Bus Park. The unrepresented woman told the court that on the day in question, she was assisting a lady with her glasscase which tilted, causing some money to fall out. The defendant explained to the court that she swiftly collected the money that fell out and placed it in her underwear. She further related that after she went home the po-

lice arrived, tied her up, placed her into their vehicle and took her to the station. Crowter recalled that the ranks beat her and tied her up, causing her blue underwear to come off and her private parts to be exposed to eight men. Crowter questioned, “Who would give me that much cocaine to sell?” Meanwhile, the prosecution’s facts which contradicted the defence allegations, stated that on the day in question,the police acting on information went to a house on Leopold Street, where they identified themselves as police officers. The ranks saw the defendant and approached her, when they saw her holding a plastic bag containing the alleged substance in her hand and acting in a suspicious manner. Subsequently, she was told of the offence and arrested and charged. She was remanded to prison and the matter was adjourned, to Friday, August 14, 2015.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Turning of sod to rebuild Umana Yana set for September

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Ms Valerie Garrido-Lowe

MINISTER within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Ms Valerie Garrido-Lowe has revealed that turning of the sod to

signal reconstruction of the Umana Yana will be held during Amerindian Heritage Month in September. This was disclosed on Wednesday by the minister during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle. The historical structure was destroyed by fire late last year. “During the Heritage Month, we will turn the sod at the formerly known location, to let everybody know that we intend to rebuild the structure,” she said. According to the minister, as the First Peoples, their presence ought to be known, and the Umana Yana serves as a symbol of the Amerindian’s presence in Guyana. When asked if the structure will be rebuilt as it was before, Minister Lowe said,

“The Wai-Wais built it, so they would like to keep the tradition alive.” Meanwhile, she alluded to the fact that more focus will be placed on the “indigenous-ness”, as they intend to work towards highlighting their diverse cultures to the best of their ability. Currently, renovation of the benabs at the Sophia Exhibition Centre have begun, and also ideas are flowing in terms of making the month as cultural and as indigenous as possible. The minister encouraged persons who will be participating in this year’s events to create everything with “indigenous-ness” in mind, and celebrate the Heritage Month to the best of their abilities.

Essequibians protest scrapping of $10,000 school voucher programme

Region 2 Chairman Mr Devanand Ramdatt leading the protest

SCORES of Essequibo parents, accompanied by Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Chairman, Mr Devanand Ramdatt and Vice-Chairman Ms Nandranie Coonjah, yesterday held a picketing exercise outside the Department of Education at Cotton Field,

Essequibo Coast. The exercise is in protest of the Coalition Government’s discontinuation of the $10,000 school voucher programme that was started by the former PPP/C Government last year. The parents were armed with placards that said, inter

alia, “Minister of Education is a sell-out”, “Parents unite... uniforms for students, meals for students”, “Is this the change”. Parents, while marching with their placards, shouted “No voucher, no school, reduce the number of Ministries”.

Int’l Day against Trafficking in Persons...

Gov’t needs public help to fight human-trafficking – Social Protection Minister

Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence browse through some of the displayed literature

MINISTER of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence said at the launch of an anti-human- trafficking campaign that the Government intends to enforce the law, but needs the assistance of the general public to help in the fight. Yesterday at the Public Building in Georgetown, Minister Lawrence explained some of the strategies that the Government hopes to implement in the fight against human trafficking. She noted that as we observe World In-

ternational Day against Trafficking in Persons,the phenomenon has been described as modern-day slavery. The minister stated that Guyana joins the rest of the world in registering its voice in the fight against human -trafficking and “we recommit to legislation to combat trafficking in persons that started in 2005.” The Government of Guyana has made significant progress in combating trafficking in persons and has approached this scourge by

focusing on four perspectives which are prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership. “We need citizens and the security organisations to be more vigilant and responsive and the judiciary to be fair and just and to address these matters in a timely manner,” she emphasised. The Government intends to boost the capacity of the responsible department to improve operations to expand its reach and to implement a National Plan of Action. Minister Lawrence gave the assurance that the implemented policies will facilitate victim- protection and assistance. Continuous efforts should be made, she noted, to enhance cooperation and coordination mechanisms among the key stakeholders to prevent human trafficking. “It is crucial that we form partnerships with civil society groups and communities to identify and report suspected cases.We need to mobilise greater resources.” “Information Booklet on Human Trafficking” was also launched at the two- day exhibition and is available at the office of the Ministry of Social Protection located on Cornhill Street,Stabroek,Georgetown.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Murder of GGMC engineer…

File, ballistics report still incomplete – after months of investigations By Clestine Juan AFTER months of investigation, the police are yet to complete the file and the ballistics report for the gun that was used to kill Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) engineer, Trevor Abrams while the alleged masterminds are on remand. O n M o n d a y, A p r i l 13,2015, Steven Prescott,

also known as “Assassin”, along with Orin Arthur and Rayon Paddy, was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for Abrams’ murder, which occurred on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara. According to Police Prosecutor, Corporal Bharrat Mangru on the first court

appearance, investigations were still in progress into the two matters and the trio were remanded. Now, three months later, the files are still incomplete, and yesterday was the fifth time the matter was called before Magistrate Ann McLennan, causing Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes to vent his frustration over the incomplete files. According to the lawyer, the court should proceed on the little evidence it has, as it has been three months since

Man remanded for possession of arms, ‘ammo’

THIRTY-five-year-old Kevin Jordon was remanded to prison on a charge of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The allegation against him when he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’

Court, was that he did not have the relevant licences to have a .32 revolver and two live, matching rounds of ‘ammo’ at Stabroek Market onTuesday,June 30,2015. Magistrate Ann McLennan, before whom the con-

struction worker made his appearance and denied the charge, was refused bail after the prosecutor explained to the court that the investigation is incomplete. Jordon was unrepresented by counsel.

the trio were on remand. When the magistrate enquired from police prosecutor Sergeant Neville Jeffers, on the status of the files the court, she was told that several statements are outstanding from the police, while he awaits the results to match the gun that was used to commit the offence. The magistrate however adjourned the matter until Wednesday, August 12, 2015, for report and fixtures. McLennan stressed that if the reports are still outstanding,

the court will be forced to go to trial without the files. According to reports Abrams, 32, of Lot 131 Samatta Point, East Bank Demerara, was riddled with bullets on February 26, 2015, at Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara, after heavily armed men ambushed him and opened fire on his vehicle. Meanwhile, Arthur and Paddy were jointly charged with the murder of Sterling Products Limited Security guard Wilfred Stewart, of Graham’s Hall, East Coast

Demerara. Stewart was shot dead on December, 24, 2014 in the Sterling Products Limited compound, Providence, East Bank Demerara. Paddy and Arthur are currently before the courts on several charges ranging from possession of an illegal firearm, possession of narcotics, abduction and robbery under arms. The men allegedly posed as cops and carried out robberies at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, on Wednesday, March 18, 2015.

RDC approves water schedule COUNCILLORS of the Regional Democratic Council of Region 2 (Pomeroon–Supenaam) have given their approval for the water schedule for the irrigation of rice fields on the Essequibo Coast to be made public and available at all NDC offices across the Coast. The approval for the

water schedule to be made public and available to farmers came after APNU/AFC Councillor, Mr Naithram raised the matter at the July statutory meeting in the Regional Boardroom at Anna Regina. Mr Naithram told the meeting that he has being agitating for quite a while at the RDC meetings for

the water schedule to be put back in place, but it was never done. The Councillor explained that the system needed to be implemented again, so that farmers can know when the Regional Administration will be releasing water from its conservancies to irrigate fields in the different areas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

Grand Emancipation celebrations set

By Tajeram Mohabir

THE African Cultural & Development Association (ACDA) is this year honour-

ing the village of Maria Johanna, Wakenaam, Region Three, in its Emancipation celebrations. The recognition of the

village is part of activities to pay tribute to the Village Movement. Director of ACDA, Dr Eric Phillips said one of the

greatest entrepreneurial acts by freed Africans in World History was the Village Movement, which started in 1839. Freed Africans combined

--Gov’t approves funds f

Director of ACDA, Dr Eric Phillips

their resources to buy villages, so that they did not have to return to plantation life and cheap, punitive labour. WAKENAAM Wakenaam is an island in the mouth of the Essequibo River. It is 17.5 square miles, and is, therefore, one of the largest islands in the river. In 1690, after the French invaded Fort Island, the Dutch plantation owners moved to, and settled on, the island of Wakenaam. The name Wakenaam is Dutch in origin, and means “Waiting for a name”. One of these Dutch men started a plantation, and named it Maria Johanna, which is thought to be named after his twin daughters. The British, in 1716, took control of Wakenaam and Maria Johanna. In 1803, the plantation owner was Hugenoltz. The plantation was bought by Mr Boddart and Company in 1832, and then by Adam Ramkin in 1851. The plantation was surveyed by Henry Rainford, and 88 house lots were laid out, most of them to accommodate the workers. The Colonial Government took control of the plantation because of bankruptcy, and later sold it to a company in April 1871, whose shareholders were predominantly former slaves. The sale price was $700. There were many disagreements among share-

holders as to what was the best way to develop the land. Ultimately, the plantation was taken over by the Partition Ordinance in 1914. In 1921, a village was created, and a tax system was introduced. Any visitor to Maria Johanna can still observe evidence of Dutch occupation, and the fact that slaves worked there. There is a unique Dutch sluice, which, after a century, still stands immaculate and spectacular. Every now and then, various types of Dutch bottles and coins are found in the ground. The island still contains old Dutch graves at various locations, and there is also a Dutch well. Wakenaam has multiple villages, including Good Success, San Souci, Melville, Eagles Rust, New Belle Plaine, Sarah, Caledonia, Zeelandia, Meerzorg, Fredericksburg and Maria Johanna. ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES The main economic activities of Wakenaam are agriculture (cash crops), poultry and coconut oil. Dr Phillips also told the Guyana Chronicle that since most Guyanese cannot trace their roots to an African nation, every year, ACDA celebrates one of the 54 countries on the vast African continent. This year, the group is celebrating the country Niger, in West Africa. Prior to French colonisation, Niger played a valuable role in prehistoric history, especially considering the fact it was a part of four major empires and kingdoms, namely: The Songhai Empire (600–1591); The Hausa kingdoms (mid14 Century-1808); The Mali Empire (1230 -1600); and The Kanem-Bornu Empire (early 9th Century – 1900). Emancipation this year is being celebrated under the theme: “Rekindling Our Past Glory through Youth Innovation”, with the sub-theme: “Building Strong Families through Entrepreneurship”. According to Dr Phillips, preparations for the grand celebration began in January, while construction of tents in the National Park started a few days ago. “While that is going on, of

GUYANA CHRONICLE, FRIDAY JULY 31, 2015

t for National Park

for active African groups

Ghanaian performer, Blakk Rasta

course, we have been busy interfacing with the groups that are coming. We have a group from the United States of nine people; they do stilt walking, traditional dancing and drumming,” he said. There will also be performances by groups from Nigeria and Suriname, and a special performance from a gentleman named Blakk Rasta from Ghana. The Ghanaian is said to have done a song for US President Barrack Obama and Guyana, and is well-known in West Africa and other parts of the African continent. LOCAL GROUPS Aside from the international groups, the ACDA Director said Lisa Punch and Natural Black as well as 20 other local groups will be performing. Celebrations began yesterday under different themes: From drumming and folk songs to history and culture at the Square of the Revolution.

Tonight, Dr Phillips said, there will be a candlelight march starting at the Square of the Revolution, going through the streets of Georgetown before returning to the Square for a cultural programme and libation ceremony at midnight. Tomorrow, Emancipation Day itself, there will be a sunrise service at the National Park by religious and spiritual folks. The Park will open at 10:00 hrs, and there will be children’s booths featuring story-telling and games. A meal will be provided for the children. And at 13:00hrs, a competition will begin among groups which want to be part of the main programme which begins at 15:00hrs. The winners, Dr Phillips said, will be inserted into the main programme. ENTREPRENEURS Behind the tarmac, there will be booths on Niger, Maria Johanna, the Village Movement, local foods and drinks, and entrepreneurs. The tent for entrepreneurs, a first, will feature young business persons in Guyana and throughout the world. “We want persons to start looking to create jobs in their villages, for Guyana to grow. We have to be entrepreneurs; we have to trade more with other countries. We are encouraging that,” Dr Phillips told the Guyana Chronicle. Minister of Governance Raphael Trotman on Wednesday announced that Cabinet

All set for Emancipation 2015

has approved funds for active African groups across the country to host Emancipation Day activities in their respective communities. “This is in keeping with the Government’s commit-

ment to the promotion of cultural activities which remind us of the contributions of all our ancestors to the nation’s development,” he said. ACDA is also working with Culture, Youth and Sport

Divisions of the Ministry of Education and about 40 groups to make Emancipation 2015 a success. And this year, admission to the National Park is free for children up to age 12.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Bedridden man murdered at East Bank Berbice A FIFTY-seven-year old bedridden pensioner was on Wednesday morning found lying motionless in a pool of blood, with an incised injury to the back of his head, at his home at Brother’s Village, East Bank Berbice. Pooran Saroop, a former sawmill employee, previously lived alone, but was recently cared for by Seelall Madaya, 37, formerly of Fyrish Village, Corentyne. Madaya, who has since been detained by the police after he made a report, is assisting with the investigations into the murder. According to villagers, the care-giver, along with other residents, was seen drinking earlier that afternoon, and he left for home at about 17:00 hrs. Mayada told this reporter that he tidied up the old man,

dressed him and put on a pair of socks and put him to bed. “I used to care for the man; I used to bathe he and cook he breakfast. Another neighbour used to provide he lunch every day. I used to wash he clothes; he never give me money. He even borrow $7,000 to go and see Dr Sugrim. He was to go tomorrow [Thursday]; he had already make arrangement for the car to pick he up. When me wake up this morning [Wednesday], me call pon he, but he nah answer. Me see blood and me call the neighbour, and dem seh leh me go at the station and mek a report. Me nah know nutten; me bin drunk,” he related in the Creolese dialect practised by locals. However, his neighbour, Chandrai Sahadeo, recalled hearing a loud groaning sound emanating

from where the old man slept. “It was about 22:00hrs when I heard a loud groaning as if somebody in pain; my son looked out from the verandah, but he did not see anything. I looked out, too; I did not see anyone exiting or entering the yard. This morning, ‘Little’ tell me the man look like he dead; I tell he go report it to the station...“ Meanwhile, villagers described the deceased as a peaceful man who lived alone most of his life. However, others said he was visited by an overseas relative who had given him some money, and that unknowing to his caregiver, he gave the money to a niece for safekeeping. Persons are of the opinion that robbery may have been the motive. The police are continuing their investigations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

NA Multilateral robbed of $1.4M

By Jeune Vankerick SIX youthful masked robbers robbed the New Amsterdam Multilateral School, in Berbice, of $1M in cash and two cheques valued $400,000, before sexually assaulting a female on guard

duty on Wednesday morning between 02:00 and 03:00hrs. It is believed to be an inside job. Security guard Conrad Cort, 72, was gagged and taped before being cuffed in his face, as one of the bandits told him, ‘Cooperate, or I will

Friday, July 31, 2015 - 14:30 hrs Saturday, August 1, 2015 - 05:30 hrs

shoot’. The guard recalled he initially wanted to retaliate, as he was of the opinion that he could have handled the youths, but did not know whether the men were armed as they had suggested. While three focused on him, the others sexually assaulted the female guard before they proceeded to the administrative block where they ransacked the deputy principal’s office and stole the money. Meanwhile, Mr Cort, who displayed visible injuries to his face and hands, managed to remove the tape that bound him and contacted his checker, by which time the robbers had escaped. In an invited comment, the school’s principal, Mr Narinedatt Dhanraj noted that it was only the previous afternoon that he had attended the school’s board meeting, and everything was intact. However, he opted not to divulge too much, only to confirm that the incident did occur. According to him, the stolen cheques were in favour of a former teacher, Joanna Robertson, who was no longer employed by the institution, but was expected to visit the school today to uplift the cheques which represent outstanding payments. This newspaper was reliably informed that a school official was instructed to take the excess cash to the Bank, as the school was allowed to have only $50,000 on its premises. Investigations are continuing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015 Tel: 619-1952

Cherese James to represent Guyana at Miss United Continents 2015!

NDER directorship of Missosology Guyana, Cherese James was appointed Miss United Continents Guyana 2015, and will travel to Guayaquil, Ecuador to compete in the 2015 staging of the Miss United Continents pageant. This will be the first time a Guyanese beauty will be competing in this pageant, which will see participation of different countries from all over the world battling it out in Evening Gown, Swimsuit, National Costume and Interview segments. The final of Miss United Continents is scheduled for September 12th, 2015. Twenty-four-year-old Cherese James was born at the GPHC and raised in Guyana’s Region 3. She migrated to the USA at fifteen, where she qualified herself. She is currently a Vascular Surgeon Assistant at the New York Vein Centre. Saving lives and making a difference is what she enjoys doing. She is a kindhearted and community-minded person who has a passion to raise awareness for individuals with disabilities. Cherese James is no stranger to the world of pageantry. She competed in Miss World Guyana 2014 and copped the 4th runner up spot, as well as placing in the top five in the Fitness and Talent Fast Track events. Earlier this year, Ms. James represented Guyana at the Miss Caribbean United States 2015 pageant and placed 2nd runner-up. She also won the People’s Choice Award for this competition. Before she entered the Miss World Guyana Pageant, she always donated charitable stuff to disability homes in Guyana every time she

La Belle Bar unleashes

‘Karaoke Fantasia’ PATRONS are these days certainly not getting their deserved servings of really hyped karaoke, since DJs are more concerned with having their friends and associates sing all night, with no respect for the ‘big spenders’ who come to these forums hoping to get their money’s worth… And I say this because I have been up and about and have seen karaoke DJs taking cash and free drinks to allow persons to sing, and they pay no attention to those innocent people coming to ‘spend large’ and to have a night of clean, fair fun… Well, the La Belle Bar (bottom flat of La Belle Hotel in Norton Street, Lodge) is out to change all this, and its management could not have chosen a better DJ than ‘DJ Nigel’. This DJ works ‘fair and square’ and ensures every patron gets to sing at his/her turn when it arrives. He accepts no gifts, and certainly does not discriminate, despite race, creed or preferences. Patrons are therefore urged to hurry down to this joint every Tuesday and Sunday, and relax in the cool and enticing ambience as they enjoy succulent ‘cutters’ and treats from some of the country’s best karaoke singers. Moreover,

t h e drinks are affordable and the sound system is perfect…. What more can you possibly ask for? Persons can also call phone number 694-7194 to make reservations.

visited Guyana. Her determination was recognized during the pageant. After the pageant, she was assigned the ambassador for the “Guyana Association for the Visually Impaired”. She envisions leading the organisation to greater successes, planning and executing fund-raising activities. She is also a member of the “Roraima Scholarship Funds”. “I realise that the sky is not the limit. There is so much I can do as long as I have the strength and drive. I love to challenge myself to make a positive difference. I love the decision I have made in my life, and I live every day without regrets. I want to be remembered as a role model to young girls, (to show) that they can achieve anything they set out to achieve. I want to make an impact in the society that moulded me, Cherese James”. Her hobbies are reading, acting, and dancing. Her favourite sports are cricket, soccer and track-and-field. She loves to listen to music by Bob Marley, Lucky Dube and Beres Hammond. For all updates leading to the finals of Miss United Continents 2015, you can follow Cherese James’s journey by visiting the official facebook page of Miss United Continents Guyana at https://www. facebook.com/pages/Miss-United-Continents-Guyana/1603096606616371

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Bombshell’s Profile Personality…

Vocal stardom beckons Daniel Dondre --but sponsorship is a bugbear

ALL around Guyana we can find swarms of vocal talent that have not yet been discovered, either because of financial constraints, geographical locations, or other issues. In our quest for ‘everything local’, Bombshell discovered the somewhat secluded Daniel Dondre, a man who possesses one of the most melodious voices around, coupled with a naturally overwhelming stage presence that makes his talent felt by everyone. This lad, who originates from Albouystown, Georgetown, has been singing for the past three years, and has totally moved audiences with his R & B and soulful performances. Daniel, more popularly known as ‘Double D’, has been rapidly gaining the attention of fans in and around his home community. And while many are of the opinion that lads of East Indian origin cannot do English songs, this lad has been quite a rude awakening for many such persons who have heard him. He actually began singing at age fifteen, and quite soon was taken over by the musical fire burning in his veins. He has just released a single dubbed ‘I Still Love You’, and lets on that he writes and composes his songs from personal experience. His latest single was actually penned after his heart had been broken by a woman he had loved with all he possessed in life, and this song reflects the pain and agony of that loss. He says he has several singles to be released in the near future, has his sights set on in-

‘His Voice’

IS Voice, a deeply rooted inter-denominational Christian band, formed just over a year ago, was officially launched on Saturday, July 4, 2015, with an explosive concert that showcased some of the biggest names in gospel circles in Berbice. The 12- member group is filled with God- loving, talented musicians, lead vocalist and back-up singers who

embrace a passion to follow Jesus Christ, offer worship to our Saviour, and deliver the message of Praise, Glory and Honour to Him through song. His Voice is the brainchild of Loiden Henry and Monix Hetemeyer, who , during a facebook chat exchange in 2014, reminisced on their previous performance with the now defunct “ Come Worship with us” gospel band . Agreeing that there was

Daniel Dondre (left) interacts with one of his many enthusiastic fans ternational fame, and is certain to take his music to the next level if he could only acquire much-needed sponsorship. He is particularly disturbed by the abuse some promoters ‘dish out’ to singers, and deeply regrets that Guyana has not yet passed copyright laws to protect local artistes. He advises fellow musicians to stay focused despite challenges, and to reach for the stars as they strive for a successful career in music.

launched in Berbice

no such movement in the Berbice area, and the lack of opportunities to exercise their ministry of worship music away from a traditional church setting, they decided

to serve Yahweh! , while their mission statement: “To empower and build the Kingdom of God through music, song, dance, unify-

churches, until an approach to have a permanent home was made to, and accepted by, Rev. Doreen Henry ,Senior Pastor of Grace Temple Assembly of God Church, located at Pope Street in New Amsterdam. Rev. Henry, also acts as spiritual adviser. On Saturday, the His Voice Group will release its first original song, “Ebenezer, Hitherto hath

Leader and Female Lead Vocalist); Dr.Lionel Henry- (Treasurer - Brummer); Sheantta Henry (SecretaryLead/Background Female Vocalist); Matthew Patterson (Male Bass/Alto Lead/Background Vocalist- Artistic Coordinator); Troyden Hinds, (Drummer/ Male band member uniform constructor); Joshua Greene (Bass guitar #2),Dexter Benjamin (Bass guitar #1- Musical mentor

Quote of the Day Photograph from left: Trivette Grimmond, Troyden Hinds, Monix Hetemeyer, Lionel Henry, Romanda Greene, Keyshawn Williams, Sheantta Henry, Joshua Greene, Otaphia Brusch, Loiden Henry & Matthew Patterson. to explore the possibility of creating a band of their vision. It took approximately three months after their initial conversation for a meeting to be organised and a decision was taken to form the band officially on March 27, 2014. The name “HIS VOICE” was proposed by Loiden Henry, who explained that it was given him by the Holy Spirit, as he awaited direction. Their motto is: We Live

ing cultures and ultimately cultivating an atmosphere through which HIS VOICE can resound,” Reflecting, the band’s co-founder and lead male vocalist noted that the group had experienced challenging times, like any new grouping, but with the wisdom of God they have survived. Initially, rehearsals had to be shifted from buildings which housed non-government organisations to

the Lord Helped us,” during the expected rich praise and worship session, which will also be enabled by the locals Simeon Burnett, Alicia Steele, Abigail Daniels, Kaylon Bender, Ronette Waldron and the Praise Dance Academy. Meanwhile, the members of the band are Loiden Henry (Co-Founder and Leader- Lead Male Vocalist); Monix Hetemeyer (Co-Founder- Assistant

and adviser); Keyshawn Williams ,(Keyboard- Sound & Musical Equipment coordinator); Trivette Grimmond (Drummer-Sound & Musical Equipment coordinator #2); Romanda Greene, (Female Lead Vocalist); Otaphia Brusch (Female Lead Vocalist- Lyrics Coordinator). Since their formation, the group has performed at four concerts and at an international women’s conference.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

w o v s n ia ic t r a B , s r e g in City s t a r e h t o h c a e h s li o m e to d e s a c w o h s e k o a r a K r a t Princess S LAST Saturday, the clash between Barticians and city contestants was quite fiery, as the Princess Karaoke Star 2015 Show at Princess Hotel moved into the sixth round. Come tomorrow night, some eleven talented singers will again battle for the coveted top spots as the competition moves into its seventh round. Bartica powerhouse Silyne Griffith was like a fiery volcano last week as she managed to retain her first place position, forcing Georgetown’s Aaliyah Maria Roshuvel into second place. Georgetown’s Lashaun Charles moved a little down the ranks, while Iodele Gilbert certainly improved her ranking. Other ranks who certainly stepped up their game were Azzaruddin Laljie, Jamal Benjamin, Romichelle Brummel, Louis Ebenzer, Jonathan Basteano, and Dameon Apple. This week Oquela Jones has been removed from the event because of gross indiscipline, while Lisa Walcott has been eliminated according to the judges. Investigations have proved that Jones was also dismissed from the Marriot Hotel because of gross misconduct on his part. A war is seemingly in the making in tomorrow’s contest, since the Barticians Silyne Griffith and Dameon Apple have vowed to ‘make a mess’ of the competition coming from the city and other areas. Tomorrow evening from 9 pm, eleven singers will battle before the judges to rake in the few coveted spots left in the competition. Jones has now been replaced by Daniel Dondre

Illuminate Dancers live at Club 704 A hyped and riveting showcase is anticipated at the 704 Nightclub at Albert and Lamaha Streets in Georgetown, when the internationally famous Illuminate Dancers performs live on August 07, 2015. The top-rated dance group, which blazed a trail at the ‘America’s Got Talent’ show, has also performed alongside Blacked Eyed Peas, superstar Chris Brown, and the temptress Christina Aguileira. They have also excited many at events such as the BET and MTV Music Awards. Make sure you are there when they bring their fire to Club 704 early next month. Pic saved as illuminate dancers

Maria Roshuvel of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, who had auditioned on the Westside and was placed on standby. Be there to soak up the fun and excitement when the show kicks off at 9 pm tomorrow night inside Club Next (Princess Hotel)

Silyne Griffith

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

comes to the rescue with great

‘taxi offer’

ENTERTAINMENT giant ‘Pulse Entertainment’ is here to the rescue with a new initiative which now sees the launch of the ‘Pulse Taxi Service’. While management now sees this new venture as a forum to satisfy the growing need to bring fresh and reliable transport to late night revellers, management has also noted that persons using this service will not only be charged the correct

fares (at all times) but will also be able to enjoy Southland International Inc products as they relax in style. Southland International has come on board, and will be offering each taxi patron either a bottle of Cran+, Blue Waters bottled water, or a Moussy Malt. In addition, the Massey entity through its brand Soldanza (plantain chips), will allow passengers to munch in style, since

on each journey persons will receive a pack of the Soldanza plantain chips. This is certainly going to be welcomed by persons using the late night taxi service, since other drivers have been in the habit of over-charging late night revellers alarming sums to get to their destinations. The main aim of Pulse Taxi Service is to maintain stable pricing as well as allowing patrons to refresh themselves ‘Southland International Style’, even as they have their fill of the delicious Soldanza snacks.

Hopetown Assn rebirths Soiree BOUGHT by enslaved Africans after emancipation sometime in the 1840s, the village of Hopetown, located on the West Coast of Berbice fifty-four miles from the capital city of Georgetown, has a very rich history and culture bounded by its ancestors. Soiree remains one aspect of the culture which has survived the passage of time, but this rich art form has been slowly dying over the last decade. Keeping particularly this aspect of the culture alive is very important to a group of young people who grew up seeing their elders celebrate their freedom from slavery. For this reason, come Friday, July 31, 2015 (today), the MultiAction Association will

strive to bring the true meaning of Soiree to both young and old in the “REBIRTH OF SOIREE”. The hope is that, over time, they will bridge the gap between the younger and older generations in rehabilitation of the culture of their community. During the days leading up to the day of Emancipation, including August 1 itself, the team of young, ambitious minds, which comprises Emerson Benjamin, Alister “Mr. Fathead” Roberts, Tasia Allen, Ludwig Joseph and Melissa “VANiLLA” Roberts, will be engaged in various activities, including honouring the Elders on August 1. The most important events of the lot of activities

to be undertaken will be the Adult Candlelight Parade, which will start at midnight; and the newly added Children’s Soiree Parade and Cultural Games, which will be held earlier in the day. The Adult Parade will this year be in the form of a candlelight precession with inclusion of the GDF Band Corps, bringing vibrancy and “the real feel” to the Soiree vibes, as they did in years gone by. The parade usually begins at twenty hours, and moves from Fort Wellington to Bel Air Village and back, as persons march into Hopetown with their lights. At that time, all lights in the village are expected to go out, so as to convey what the emancipated had felt when they were finally given their free-

-to keep its ancestral culture alive

dom, and also to celebrate the purchase of their village. The MultiAction Association hereby extends special thanks to The Guyana Police Force, especially to ‘B’ Division Commander Christopher Griffith, and to officers and ranks of the Fort

Wellington Police Station. Deep gratitude is likewise extended to the following companies and agencies for their sterling support of a most worthy event: Bermudez, Banks DIH, Digicel; and to the Guyana Defence Force for its kind coopera-

tion in making these events possible. To all Guyana, the word from the MultiAction Association is, “See you in Hopetown on July 31st!” And remember to come early to catch the candlelight parade!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

OSCL 15/15 Norman Sue Bakery Softball

Ejaz Mohamed steers Cricketers Cove to victory By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada -Former Guyana Under-19 batsman Ejaz Mohamed rolled back the years with a classic undefeated 41 to guide Cricketers Cove to the Norman Sue Bakery-sponsored 15/15 softball title when the Ontario

Softball Cricket League (OSCL) staged the final last Saturday at the Ashtonbee ground. Playing before vocal supporters and chasing a modest 80 for victory, after limiting opponents Dant to 79 for nine in their allotted 15 overs, Cricketers Cove achieved their target with

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five balls to spare, winning in 14.1 overs. It was also a significant loss for Dant, who entered the 2015 season, having won all three major tournaments in their debut season (2014) under the OSCL’s umbrella. They had earlier relinquished the 10/10 title, losing to Caribbean Sensation in a tense semi-final and will be looking to salvage their reputation in the 20-over regular tournament which is still being contested. Mohamed entered the fray after his team were jolted by the dangerous Satrohan ‘Blade’ Balkarran who sent opener and captain Vijay Prashad packing first ball of the innings. Playing sensibly, he featured in a brilliant second-wicket partnership of 69 with Kumar Doodnauth (11), the latter departing with just 11 needed for victory. Needing to get five runs in the final over, Mohamed ended the game in emphatic fashion, smashing the first delivery for a massive six over the midwicket boundary, much to the delight of the Cricketers

Cove supporters. The six was his second while he also counted two fours. The other not-out batsman was former Guyana and West Indies B team player Krishna Arjune. Batting first, Dant never got their innings together and struggled throughout with only former Guyana captain Damodar Daesrath reaching double figure with 15. There were two wickets each for Doodnauth, Gopaul Chand Beharry, and Mike Mahadeo. Mohamed copped the M o s t Va l u a b l e P l a y e r (MVP) award for Cricketers Cove while Balkarran was adjudged MVP for Dant. The Consolation final saw favourites Rebels ease past Wakenaam Sports Club by six wickets with former Guyana Under-19 player Troy Gonsalves hitting a breezy 24 and Shiv Seeram 17 in their quest of 93 for victory. Mohin Khan was Wakenaam’s best bowler with three for five in two overs. Wakenaam had earlier made an inadequate 92 for nine in their allotted 15 overs

with Most Valuable Player (MVP) Krishna Persaud top-scoring with 26. Seeram claimed two for three in his lone over. Former Guyana Under-19 player Naresh Roopnarine was named MVP for Rebels. At the presentation which followed, OSCL president Guyanese Albert Ramcharran praised the teams for reaching their respective final and for the discipline they exhibited. Ramcharran also announced that Kim Sue had agreed to sponsor the tournament under the Norman Sue Bakery banner. In her response, Kim told those present that she was proud to be the first sponsor of the tournament on behalf of her late Guyanese father, who was hailed as a pioneer in the baking industry before he passed away. Meanwhile, the 10/10 final is set for Saturday, August 8 when the OSCL will also stage its annual fun day. The final features Caribbean Sensation and Masters and promises to be a riveting affair.

Jumbo Jet launches ninth annual Guyana Cup JUMBO Jets Auto Sales ninth annual Guyana Horse Race Meet is set for August 16 at the Port Mourant Race track, Corentyne, Berbice. The race meet was launched yesterday at the at the Jumbo Jet Auto Sales office on Smyth Street. Present at the head table to conduct the ceremony was coordinator Nazrudeen Mohammed Junior, Director of Sport Christopher Jones, President of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority Vic Ouditt, Digicels Events and Sponsorship Manager Gavin Hope, Banks DIH Limited Out Door Events Manager Gavin Jodhan and Banks DIH Limited Water Brand Manager Errol Nelson. Jones pointed out that the Government of Guyana stand committed in the development of horse racing and sports in general. He congratulated the organisers for organising an event. “The Government of Guyana is very supportive of the Guyana Cup and of course in whatever way we can the Government is prepare to lend its support,” Jones pointed out Ouditt expressed that the Guyana Cup has brought the sport to a new lev-

el, ever since it came on board. “We at the GHRA are very happy that Jumbo Jet continues to host such event. They have brought the sport to a new level in terms of the quality of horses that have been imported into Guyana,” he said. Eleven races are carded for the day and according to race coordinator Nazrudeen Mohammed Junior, this event is not only dubbed the largest one in Guyana’s horseracing calendar, but is looked forward to by jockeys and stables across the Caribbean. “We want to encourage people who are not traditional horse racing fans to come out cause we are trying to make it more family friendly so more people can come out along with the children and enjoy the races,” Mohamed Junior stated. The feature race is for animals classified A1 and Lower. A total of $7.5 million will be up for grabs in that race. The race will be contested over a distance of 1800 metres. Meanwhile, interested horse owners are required to deposit a 50 percent non-refundable fee by August 8. The balance of entries must be paid in full before or on race day.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

Guyana retain Regional U-15 title with ease

GUYANA trounced the Windward Islands by 98 runs to easily retain the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Under-15 title yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium. It was definitely a must-win game for the hosts who claimed their fourth title at this level. The victory was crucial owing to the fact that Windward Islands were leading the points tally by five going into yesterday’s final round. However, after rattling up 199-9 in their 50 overs, the hosts’ bowlers then bowled within themselves to restrict their opponents for 101 in 38.1 overs. Left-arm spinner and Man-ofthe-Match Kevlon Umroa, produced an exceptionally disciplined show to end with figures of 5-32 while fast bowler Haifa Walters chipped in with 2-5 from his six overs. There was a wicket apiece for fast bowler Qumar Torringto and left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd. Windward Islands opener Dhan-Raj Cepal topscored with 35 from 101 balls with one four, and was the only batsman to offer any resistance. Rene Montoute (12) and Razim Elehie (11) were the other batsmen to score double figures. Batting first after his team won the toss, Sachin Singh top-scored with 45. Openers Junior Sinclair (25) and Robin Williams (38) laid the foundation with an

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday July 31, 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: (1) Dwayne Bravo (T & T Red Steel) (2) 20 players

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Name the teams that have played in CPL finals to date. (2) How many sixes were struck in Hero CPL 2015?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

opening stand of 77. Kevlon Anderson scored a boundary-less 37 late down the order to help Guyana’s winning total. Off-spinner Jahseon Alexander (4-41) and left-arm

orthodox spinner Simeon Gerson (3-54) were the best bowlers on show for the visitors. Guyana won back-to-back titles in 1998 and 1999 then picked up their third title in 2014.

ASHES 2015

Aussies need an Ashes miracle after Finn’s five

STEVEN Finn took a five-wicket haul as England moved to the brink of victory over Australia on another barely believable day of Test cricket at Edgbaston. The Middlesex fast bowler continued his remarkable resurgence as England tore through Australia’s batting for the second time in as many days on a sun-kissed Birmingham afternoon. Only David Warner’s swashbuckling 77 and Peter Nevill’s gutsy 37 not out off 117 balls spared Australia the ignominy of a two-day defeat but the tourists are perilously poised on 168-7, 23 runs ahead of England with just three second-innings wickets in hand. England, who earlier scored 281 all out for a first-innings lead of 145, with Joe Root scoring 63 and Moeen Ali 59, will

Steven Finn celebrates removing another Australia batsman in the third Investec Ashes match. now expect to wrap up a must triumph outright to of view was the sight victory inside three days win back the Ashes, while of James Anderson leavthat would put them 2-1 Australia only need to ing the field mid-over in the evening session to ahead in the series with draw to retain the urn. two matches to play. The sole negative receive treatment on a Alastair Cook’s men from England’s point tight side.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

GDF confident of Boyce ‘Teach them young’ & Jefford Classic sweep table tennis camp HEAD coach of the Guyana Defence tory sprint ace Rupert Perry, who is the Force (GDF) Track and Field Club, Rob- current double sprint champion, along ert Chisholm, is confident that they have with Aniqah Powley as well as Davin what it takes to bring home the bacon in Fraser. the upcoming Boyce & Jefford Track and In the field events, Leslain Baird has been Field Classic set for August 15-16. on top of his game for the past three years in Chisholm, in an interview said that he the Javelin Throw while Patrick King, barhas already shortlisted the team that will ring any injury, should feature in the male represent the GDF Long Jump, which he in the competition, won last year. following their InMiddle distance ter-Unit Champiqueen Andrea Fosonships two weeks ter and all-rounder ago. He said that Natrena Hooper, who when he surveys the competes in the 200m current landscape, and 400m events as he believes he has well as in the Long the best team. a n d Tr i p l e J u m p “I think we will events, have also been win because when added to the army’s you look around arsenal. and you see the “We are looking athletes that are reasonably good. I in all the events, am confident with my we stand the best team. In terms of prepachance,” Chisholm rations, we had a setsaid, adding that back with the weather, he believes that so we did not get to they have “put toput in the kind of work gether a reasonwe wanted to, but it is Army coach Robert Chisholm able team” to chalnot we alone, all the lenge for the title. teams are on a level The soldiers placed second last year to playfield,” Chisholm asserted. Police and are definitely looking to improve The coach indicated that with the qualon that performance for the upcoming event, ity team he has, there is no reason why he with their performance at the Classic preced- should not run away with the overall firsting their entry into the 2015 Joint Services place prize of $600 000. The second-place Championships. team will pocket $400 000 while third- and Chisholm’s confidence perhaps comes fourth-placers get $250 000 and $150 000, from the fact that they have in their inven- respectively.

Dame Sarah Storey wins Para-cycling world time trial gold D A M E S a r a h S t o re y claimed the 16th world title of her cycling career with gold in the time trial at the Para-cycling Road

World Championships. The Briton finished more than two minutes ahead of Poland’s Anna Harkowska in Nottwil, Switzerland.

Dame Sarah Joanne Storey in action

Storey can win a 17th title when she rides in tomorrow’s road race. “It’s a massive relief to win,” said the 37-year-old, who is targeting further Paralympic success at next year’s Games in Rio de Janeiro. Storey is Britain’s most decorated female Paralympian with 22 medals. She has won 11 gold, eight silver and three bronze medals in both cycling and swimming across six Paralympics. She won four gold at the 2012 Games in London and has now won 21 world titles across both sports. Storey began her sporting career in the pool, winning six medals at the 1992 Paralympics before switching to cycling in 2005.

gaining momentum

THE annual ‘Teach them young’ table tennis summer camp, under the auspices of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) is gaining momentum according to officials. National coach and facilitator Linden Johnson says that the camp, currently under way at the National Gymnasium, is helping players be better prepared for future tournaments. The camp is aimed at introducing the sport to students between the ages of 5 and 18 and helping them to learn the basic techniques of the game. It also has the secondary role of identifying new talent for the sport. The event has

attracted 62 players so far under the guidance of International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) coaches Xenophon Goliah, Mooniram Persaud and Johnson along with St John’s College Physical Education teacher Andray Downer. Sessions run from 10:00hrs to 12:00hrs, Monday to Friday. At the conclusion of the camp, certificates of participation will be presented. The Education Ministry’s Department of Sport and the National Sports Commission (NSC) are sponsoring the seven-week camp which commenced on July 13 and ends on August 28.

Part of the Ministry of Education and NSC-sponsored table tennis camp.

Sawh mulls consistency for August 9

GROUP 3 driver Vishal Sawh is getting into gear for the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) Race of Champions with an eye to producing consistent performances. Speaking to Chronicle Sport, the driver says that he is still doing some fine-tuning ahead of

him in with the likes of Danny Persaud, Afraz Allie and Siad Hassan is sure to add its own bit of flair to the Group 3 class, come August 9. The Group three driver has been known to fight tooth and nail in his class and says this time will be no different. His

Vishal Sawh holds off Oliver Tjin Liep Shie of Suriname.

the August 9 event. “I had some boost leaks and as we speak, I’m trying to rectify that. This meeting is basically to run the car and really see how it performs in the group in preparation for November. But apart from the boost leaks, I have no other problems.” Sawh is no stranger to racing. The Guyanese has long been considered a dark horse and a proverbial thorn in the side of many in his class. Mixing

orange and black Ep-71 starlet is sponsored solely by his business Vishal Auto Toy Store on Sheriff and John Streets in Campbellville. The National Race of Champions, set for South Dakota circuit will be sponsored by South Land International through the Carlsberg brand, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T), Fly Jamaica, Rent-a-Tent and Ganesh Parts.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday July 31, 2015

‘Multi’ eye 4th title in 5th consecutive final appearance ... We have nothing more to prove, says head coach

FIVE years, five finals, one runner-up finish and three titles; that’s the story of the Christianburg/Wismar Secondary in the Digicel Schools Football tournament. The Lindeners are the tournament’s most storied school, and after swamping their arch rivals Waramadong 4-0 on Wednesday last in the semi-finals, coach Anthony Stephens and his troops are now focusing on winning their fourth title. After losing to the Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) in the inaugural tournament, ‘Multi’ is yet to lose. Their opponents for Sunday’s final of the nationwide championship are Chase Academy – first-time finalists but known to ‘Multi’. The two schools did clash in a friendly match earlier this year where the defending Digicel champions came out victorious 4-3. “Pressure will be on them; not us. We have nothing more to prove in this tournament,” coach Stephens told Chronicle Sport during an interview, after wrapping up a convincing win over Waramadong in front of a capacity crowd at Leonora Track & Field Facility. The coach stressed that winning the tournament for as long as possible is his ultimate goal. He stated that after reaching their fifth consecutive final with a possibility of capturing their fourth title, the onus will be on the other teams to knock them off the top of the hill. “After a while, people might think the tournament is easy for us, but really it’s not. A lot of hard work is put into getting these guys to play as a team, especially since every year, you keep getting new players. It’s not easy, but we work hard. I’m grateful for the commitment these players make to the programme and the good thing is we have an entire community behind us,” Stephens said. He added, “For Chase, a lot of pressure will be on them to bring the title back to Georgetown because since the first year, we had it in Linden. We’re used to the pressure and we welcome it. As a coach, along with my assistant (Delon Peters), it will be our job to keep these players focused and ready for Sunday. We will be working hard because Chase is a very good team and we respect them so we have to stay focused” According to Stephens, while he doesn’t want to sound boastful about his chances on Sunday, “The players will be going out there and playing for the entire community of Linden. It’s the most we could do to show them how much we appreciate the support they’ve given to us over the years. Even the schools we defeat on our way here, they support us as well. The parents of these players and the people of Linden, we will be playing for them.” With the talent pool available, the Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary school coach said that no less than ten players from his current roster will be returning next year as they hope to stake claim of the second lien trophy up for grabs and pocket another $1M prize.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Aussies need an Ashes miracle after Finn’s five See story on page 29

‘Multi’ eye 4th title in 5th consecutive final appearance See story on page 31

... We have nothing more to prove, says head coach

Flashback! Former Digicel Guyana CEO Gregory Dean presents ‘Multi’ with their third consecutive title at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, last year.

Guyana retain ‘Teach them young’ Regional U-15 table tennis camp gaining momentum title with ease

See story on page 30

See story on page 29

Sawh mulls consistency for August 9

See story on page 30

Jumbo Jet launches ninth annual Guyana Cup GDF confident of Boyce & Jefford Classic sweep

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See story on page 28

See story on page 30

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2015