Guyana chronicle 04 11 14

GUYANA No. 104001 TUESDAY NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

$412M

PRICE: $60

in contracts awarded Page

INCLUDING VAT

Father of four killed after leaving uncle’s wake

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for improving cleanup efforts by NDCs, Municipalities Page

President receives first copies of new GT&T Directories

K/News engages in BLACKMAIL to intimidate persons

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AFC shifts position on APNU coalition proposal – after Granger lets cat out of the bag

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– using illegally amassed private information as

GT&T Chief Executive Officer, Mr R.K. Sharma presenting President Donald Ramotar with a copy of the 2014 telephone directory

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– for killing wife, will have to serve 50 yrs before parole

baby girl

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PM Hinds confirms…

Man gets 83 yrs Raped 12-yr-old jail sentence gives birth to Page

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Some Guyoil service stations out of gas Page 13

GEA records seven fuel smuggling convictions for 2014 Page 12

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

President receives first copies of new GT&T Directories

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Co. (GT&T) will today release its official 2014 Telephone Directory, along with a smaller version targeting businesses.

First-copies of both directories were presented yesterday to President Donald Ramotar by Company Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Radha Krishna Sharma.

The CEO indicated that the new directory will be available, free of cost, to the general public. “We have the complete one with the White and Yellow Pages, and we also have a smaller version for the business houses that will carry all the Yellow Pages.”

The new directories will also be available Online, according to Mr Sharma. “In the first instance,” he said, “it will be as you have it; and there will also be a module that has a search-engine so you’ll be able to search for numbers by giving names, first name or last name.”

This new approach is being taken to ensure that customers have a good expe-

rience in accessing the directory’s information, whether its hard or soft copy, he added.

The new directories represent an investment of around $20M, according to the company’s head.

Meanwhile, the CEO, in his message in the new directory, stated that his vision for the company is that “of a knowledge-driven and highly innovative company, where the critical success factors are: Customer and shareholder value; knowledge management; business organisation; strong management and cost accounting; focused marketing; productivity; and a company that has the ability to transform itself as the market changes.”

Sharma said he believes in a strong corporate culture, protection of the GT&T brand, participative leadership, and adherence to international best practices in corporate governance.

Speaking of the company’s investment in the Guyana market, he said, “We have invested in the development, modernisation and

expansion of our networks and systems. Over the last 23 years we have invested over $58 billion (Guyana) in capital expansion programme and over $51 billion paid to the National Treasury for various revenue commitments.”

Highlighting that the GT&T has grown to be one of the largest private sector employers in the country, Sharma explained that there are more than 650 direct employees and offers indirect employment to over 2,000 Guyanese that support GT&T. Over its years of existence, the company’s landline service increased from 11,000 to 154,039 subscribers, through the deployment of a National Fiber optic cable network connecting all major population centers from Charity to Moleson Creek to Linden. Over $6B was plugged into the Suriname/Guyana Submarine Cable System in 2010 and $1 billion on upgrading of the Americas 11 Cable in 2011. The company has seven Earth Stations.

GT&T CEO, Mr R.K. Sharma presenting President Donald Ramotar with a smaller version of the 2014 telephone directory that targets the business community

He observed that the government has been successful in injecting competition into the wireless telecommunication industry.

In concluding, Sharma

said that GT&T is preparing for a more widely competitive market. “In providing for the next steps in the evolution of the competitive paradigm, we need to build from two

over-arching principles: a level playing field for all and the establishment of factually-based and consistent requirements that are appropriate for Guyana.”

(GINA)

K/News engages in BLACKMAIL to – using illegally amassed private intimidate persons information as trump card THERE has been a great debacle within the media recently, concerning the illegal tapping, distortion and manipulation of a conversation between the Attorney General (AG) of Guyana Anil Nandlall and a senior reporter of Kaieteur News Leonard Gildarie. While many critics have been swift to condemn the conversation that was attributed to the AG, those same critics have been silent on the trespasses and violations made by the Kaieteur News, more specifically its publisher Glenn Lall, who made public the recording and lodged a copy of same with the Police.

Even though the Government highlighted the illegality of Kaieteur News, recording and distorting a private conversation of one of its ministers, not much heed has been paid to the impunity with which the Kaieteur News has been invading the fundamental right of persons to their privacy, unhindered. A right that if circumvented will damage the very fabric that constitutes the pillars of an ordered society.

These underpinnings of the Glenn Lall’s refusal to respect that fundamental right to the sanctity of privacy, has started to unravel itself. It is now in the public domain that Lall has in his

Mr. Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News publisher

possession illegal recordings of members of the Judiciary, the Diplomatic sector, other Government functionaries, the business community and members of the combined Opposition - A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC).

Speaking to this newspaper under the condition of anonymity, out of fear of be-

ing targeted, a well-known public source said, “the recent release of the Attorney General’s recording in a distorted form has demonstrated the willingness of the Publisher of Kaieteur News to use this private information that he has amassed through illegitimate means as a tool, or as a trump card to exact revenge, blackmail, or intimidate persons.”

A P N U ’s M e m b e r o f Parliament (MP) and attorney-at-law James Bond, who recognised this and publicly admonished Lall for invading the privacy of others, was met with intimidation from Lall, who it is reported, threatened to use a recording that he has of Bond against him. Bond had said, “Glenn, you have a responsibility, as a citizen, not to violate the rights and privacies of other citizens. By spying on your own people, you have endangered their sources and betrayed the confidence of

your staff. No one is going to feel comfortable speaking to any member of your staff.

You have crossed the line and you are wrong.” Bond’s remarks, which were made on Facebook, have since been removed because of the reported threats made to him

by Glenn Lall.

This by itself provides “glaringly and unbiasedly, the unethical, illegal and immoral depths that the Publisher of Kaieteur News is willing to go to promulgate his agenda with impunity”, the source said.

The Government in a statement has since emphasised that Lall orchestrated those illegal attacks of recording and distorting private conversations and hacking into the emails of public and private personalities, in an attempt to avoid an impending audit by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), as a result of criminal charges filed against

Lall and his relatives for evasion of taxes to the tune of $100M on the importation of two luxury vehicles.

Observers have said that it is only a matter of time before those same organisations that have been condemning the Government Minister and remaining silent on the fundamental issue of the infringement on a person’s right to privacy, become, or if not already are, part of that invasion of privacy which the publisher of Kaieteur News is seemingly promulgating.

The source also pointed out to this newspaper that “only in Guyana can a man openly blackmail the Government and other personalities under the rubric of freedom of the press to avoid impending criminal charges and not be put in jail. Had this been the case in the United States it would’ve been an entirely different ball game.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

AFC shifts position on APNU coalition proposal – after Granger lets cat out of the bag CONTRARY to what he’d said before about his Party’s position regarding A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s proposal for a broader coalition, Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Mr Khemraj Ramjattan now seems to have had a change of heart.

“We will be dealing with it shortly; I don’t want to make any further comments,” he told the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday when the issue was raised with him, whereas he’d told the Guyana Times

earlier in the week, “It is nothing of the sort,” which was taken to mean that the two parties had not yet discussed the matter.

But APNU and Opposition Leader, Brigadier (rtd.)

David Granger inadvertently let the ‘cat out of the bag’ Friday, when he announced at his Party’s weekly press conference that the coalition proposal was renewed earlier in the week, during a meeting between the two Opposition parties. And that was prior to Ramjattan expressing that “it was nothing of the sort.”

COALITION OFFER STANDS According to Granger, “The matter was raised… and I would say the ball is now in the AFC’s court.”

To this extent, however, he informed that no indication was made by the AFC as to whether they will buy into the proposal. As such, the offer still stands.

The denial from the AFC leader comes at a time when communication between the two parties is described as fragmented. Just recently, Ramjattan had levelled ac-

No evidence was, however, produced by Ramjattan to support the claims, neither has he to date issued a statement to the APNU leader to indicate who the MPs are.

Khemraj Ramjattan, AFC Leader

David Granger, APNU Leader

cusations against the ruling People’s Progressive Party that they were attempting to “buy-out” three Opposition Members of Parliament to vote against their no-confidence motion, which could

result in the possibility of snap elections.

Ramjattan added that the MPs which the Government were targeting were from APNU and he had knowledge of who the three were.

DIFFERENT CALLS Moreover, the two Opposition parties have differed in their call for elections, with APNU calling for Local Government Elections and AFC pressing for the National Assembly to be convened in order to present their sponsored no-confidence motion against the Government, which, if supported by APNU, will result in snap elections being called within months.

Man gets 83 yrs jail sentence – for murder of reputed wife, will have to serve 50 yrs before parole

By George Barclay JUSTICE Navindra Singh yesterday sentenced 23-year-old woman killer Delon Gordon, called ‘Popcorn’, to 83 years’ imprisonment for throwing kerosene on his reputed wife Natasha Johnson, 23, and burning her to death on July 11, 2012 at Better Hope Squatting Area, East Coast Demerara.

The house was also destroyed by the flames, while an infant was miraculously saved from a fiery death.

The trial before Justice Singh and a jury concluded at the Demerara Assizes on October 15, when Gordon was found guilty by a unanimous verdict.

Defence Attorneys were Miss Dawn Holder and Mr. Raymond Ali. Mrs. Judith Mursalin prosecuted.

The defence asked for a probation report prior to sentencing, and this was granted. That report was

presented yesterday.

Questioned by the prosecutrix, Probation Officer Orleane Matthews admitted that she did not contact any relatives of the deceased, nor did she visit the Sparendaam Police Station. The prosecutrix noted that if she had done so, she would have found that numerous reports had been made to the station by the deceased.

Had she contacted the family of the deceased, she would have learnt that the children of the deceased have been scattered in all directions since her death.

Had she checked with the authorities, she would have learnt that the accused had stabbed another inmate in June 2012 and had been charged.

“Do you consider this to be a balanced probation report?” the prosecutrix asked.

“Does your training and experience in these matters not ensure that you prepare a report of all persons affected

‘DEAD’: Natasha Johnson

by this offence, to assist this Honourable Court in assessing this matter? Isn’t that the reason why you have the police file for weeks, to know the parties involved?”

Miss Holder was absent from court, but Mr. Ali and the trial judge also expressed dissatisfaction with the Probation Report.

Tessa Mc Garrel, Prison Welfare Officer, also submitted a report in relation to

the accused. She admitted she had the prison records but did not provide details of his charge. She said she wrote based on conversations with the accused.

In a plea of mitigation, Mr. Ali begged for leniency for the accused. He observed that, from the home, there was volatility in the relationship because a third party -- children father of the deceased -– was also involved.

Prosecutrix Mrs. Mursalin asked the judge to consider in the report the attitude of the accused to the offence – he insisted on his innocence even though he had been found guilty by a jury based on overwhelming evidence against him.

“These reports appear to paint the accused as an angel. Please, Your Honour, remember Natasha Johnson, a young mother who died on her 22nd birthday in the most horrific manner – being burnt alive by the man

she loved - this accused. He has shown no remorse, even in lengthy conversations with the Probation Officer.

He has shown no concern for his child with the deceased, at that time she was four months old.

“Did he not expect arguments and volatility? He was presumptuous enough to move in the house with the deceased and her children father, and had him thrown out”.

The prosecutrix told the judge, “These reports are absolutely poor, and do not assist me. However, I have an insight into your mind, because you have spoken with these officers.

The prisoner has harboured ill feelings towards Natasha Johnson even after her death. He called her a ‘Lady of the Night’.

Directing her remarks to the accused, Mrs. Mursalin said, “You should have moved out, not throw kero on her and set her on fire.

This is one of the worst deaths I have seen in the cases I have dealt with so far.”

Justice Singh, who normally begins his murder sentences with 60 years, told the convict: “I am adding five years to your sentence for premeditation; 10 years for exceptional brutality; six years because it is domestic violence, and five years because three small children were in the house and the house was completely destroyed by fire; and three years taken off for time served.

“Eighty-three years in prison. A minimum of 50 years must be served before you can be eligible for parole.”

Gordon was expressionless as the sentence was passed; and after the judge had left the bench, Natasha Johnson’s family cried as they rushed to hug the prosecutrix to express appreciation for the work she had done.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

No ‘changement’ in PPP’s position regarding GECOM’s PRO THERE has been no “changement” (no change) in a decision taken by the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) not to support the appointment of GECOM’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Richard Francois, owing to what they described as his political affiliations.

This was according to General Secretary of the Party, Mr. Clement Rohee, who made the disclosure yesterday at his party’s weekly press conference, which was held at Freedom House.

According to Rohee, there has been no change in the party’s position regarding the controversial appointment of Francois which took place a few months ago. “The French would call it ‘changement’,

so there is no changement,” Rohee assured yesterday while noting that the position of the party remains the same.

However, the General Secretary remained optimistic in disclosing that the party hopes that there is no change for the worse while they’d welcome changes for the better.

Concerns which were raised by the party, according to Rohee, were addressed by GECOM Chairman Dr. Steve Surujbally, who indicated to the PPP how the elections regulatory body went about selecting Francois as PRO. D r. S u r u j b a l l y ’s r e sponse, Rohee said, came in a letter which gave the party a “kind of measured assurance that Mr. Francois’ performance will be evaluated as time goes by.”

GECOM’s PRO Richard Francois NOT PLEASED Nevertheless, the General Secretary expressed on behalf of the party that they are still not pleased with this move. “No, the party is not pleased with that, not at all. We’ll have to take a compromise on our position with respect to Mr. Fran-

cois,” Rohee stated.

Since Francois’ appointment as PRO, the party has expressed concerns as it relates to the integrity of GECOM, taking into consideration, the “political background and allegiance” of Francois.

According to the PPP in an earlier statement, François is openly sympathetic and supports the political Opposition which could “compromise” his position as an official of GECOM. As such, they made a call on GECOM to exp l a i n a n d re - e x a m i n e Francois’s appointment, since the party believes that there are incidents involving the GECOM official which display a lack of professionalism due to his alleged affiliations.

(Ravin Singh)

Two sustain gunshot injuries - as businessman discharges about 13 rounds in incident at Sarah Johanna THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), up to late yesterday, was trying to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting of two elderly men of Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara by 32-year-old businessman, Jai Singh.

The incident reportedly occurred early yesterday morning on the road outside the businessman’s home at Sarah Johanna, also on the East Bank of Demerara.

Details surrounding this incident were, up to press time, not very clear, as the businessman sought to defend his actions in his account to the police, while the two men who were shot are telling a different story.

The Guyana Chronicle was told that the men were at a night spot somewhere along the East Bank of Demerara when the busi-

nessman, a licensed firearm holder, and another man ended up in a fight late on Sunday night. It is not clear what the fight was about, but from information received, the two men had gone to the defence of the other man.

The businessman has reportedly told the police that he was attempting to enter his premises at Land of Canaan when he was approached by five men, three of whom were armed with guns while the other two were carrying what appeared to be a pitchfork and an ice pick respectively. He said he was attempting to open his gate, but became concerned for his safety and opened fire on the approaching men, hitting two of them, while the others fled the scene.

Those injured in the shooting have been identified as 50-year-old Welton

Edwards of Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, who was shot once to the abdomen and once to the back; and 40-year-old Sherwin Hamilton, also of Land of Canaan, who was shot to the left side eye, abdomen, groin and knee.

Both men have been hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Persons close to the shooter have disclosed that the man has stated that he was not involved in any fight prior to the incident, and that the men whom he shot were ‘known characters’ within the community who were attempting to rob him.

In doing several checks with police sources, this publication has been able to ascertain that neither of the shot men is or has ever been a person of interest to

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the police.

Police sources also revealed that the businessman was ‘intoxicated’ at the time of the incident. Questions are also being asked as to why the businessman discharged some 13 rounds from his weapon, reportedly emptying a magazine in the incident yesterday morning.

The man’s contention that he had been approached by five men, three of whom had guns, is also being closely scrutinised by the Police as not a single one of those men had opened fire on him.

He had also reportedly indicated that a gold coloured Avensis motor car had been parked on the opposite side of the road, and that it had sped off when he had fired the shots.

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After ill-advisedly reporting it stolen...

Mace’s safe return to the House puts Speaker in embarrasing position -raises serious questions about his true intent PARLIAMENT’S ceremonial mace, symbol of authority of the office of Speaker of the National Assembly, has been returned to the Chambers.

This is according to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sherlock Isaacs, who explained that it was removed for cleaning over the weekend. “It was a twoday process,” he told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday.

“The Sergeant-at-Arms undertook the cleaning under my supervision, and it was returned to its rightful place today (yesterday),” he said.

L a s t F r i d a y, H o u s e Speaker, Mr. Raphael Trotman, released a statement to the media saying that the mace had been stolen.

He said, “Today, on entering the Speaker ’s Office, I discovered that the Mace, the symbol authority of the office of Speaker of the National Assembly, was removed from its usual place without my permission, knowledge or consent.

The entire protective case in which the Mace is kept is also missing in its entirety.

“From time immemorial, the Mace is kept in the Speaker’s office, and is only removed by the Sergeantat-Arms for use during Sittings, or for temporary viewing by guests on tour of the National Assembly.

“Upon making enquiries, no one could furnish a reasonable response or explanation as to its whereabouts.

Staff members appeared afraid to provide an explanation.”

Trotman reportedly also lodged a formal complaint with the Commissioner-of-Police, Mr. Seelall Persaud.

However, the Clerk of the National Assembly debunked these claims, saying that while Trotman claims he made enquires about the mace’s whereabouts, he did not contact him on the matter.

As such, there have since

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been concerns that Trotman, who is also an Executive Member of the Alliance For Change (AFC), is stirring up unnecessary trouble, particularly given the recent brouhaha over whether he or the Central Government has the authority to call a Sitting of the National Assembly.

The House has not met since it came out of recess on October 10, and prior to going into its annual twomonth recess on August 10, there had been no sitting since July 10. The Clerk of the National Assembly has maintained that the power to call a sitting under these circumstances lies with the Government, a position he and Trotman differ on.

Asked whether he believed that Trotman was bent on making trouble, Isaacs declined to comment. “No,” he said, “I would not want to comment on that.” .

Attempts to obtain a comment from the Speaker all day yesterday, up until press time, also proved futile.

When the National Assembly does resume, the hot-button issue up for consideration is the AFCsponsored No-Confidence Motion brought against the current Administration.

President Donald Ramotar, on Saturday directed that steps be taken to convene a Sitting of the National Assembly within the next 14 days.

Additionally, the Government has reiterated its position that the convening of a sitting of the National Assembly must be done in accordance with the Standing Orders, and long-cherished parliamentary practices.

The Government had a number of pending legislative matters to be brought before the House prior to the annual recess. Further there are important financial papers relating to the development of the country and growth of the economy that need to be urgently addressed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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Crime Chief says investigations into ‘19-minute leak’ ongoing -defends impartiality of police’s work

CRIME Chief, Mr. Leslie James yesterday told the Guyana Chronicle that the investigations “are ongoing” into the matter related to the controversial leak of a 19-minute recording of a private conversation.

He also seized the opportunity to defend the impartiality of the investigations, following concerns to the contrary, making it clear that the work of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is done in a professional manner.

“It is the right of Kaieteur News, or anyone else, to express and opinion, but at the end of the day, the Police has to investigate, and has to do so professionally.

That is what we are endeavouring to do; we cannot stop someone from expressing a view,” James said.

Publisher of the Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall last Monday filed a report with Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Balram Persaud, after releasing the recording of a private conversation between Attorney-General (AG), Mr. Anil Nandlall and Kaieteur News’ senior reporter, Mr. Leonard Gildharie. Lall’s defence is that the contents of the recording indicate that his life, the lives of his family and staff members are under threat. The Guyana Chronicle has been given to understand that both Lall and Gildharie have since been questioned by the police.

Asked about the status of the interviews done to date, James said they will have to be carefully examined to determine the way forward.

LEGAL INFRACTIONS

Questions are still being asked about how Lall came to be in possession of the recording; and the feeling out there is that if Gildharie did not give it to him, then we could possibly be dealing with a legal infraction.

Questions are also being asked about the circumstances under which the telephone conversation was recorded; whether it was done by Gildharie, or by way of wiretapping, which latter modus could also constitute a legal infraction.

In the case of a possible wiretapping, the Interception of Communications Act, Chapter 47:03, Act No. 21 of 2008, which addresses the prohibition of interception (Section 3), states: “3(1) Except as provided in this section, a person who intentionally intercepts a communication in the course of its transmission, by means of a telecommunication system, commits an offence, and is liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding five million dollars ($5,000,000), and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years. “(2) A person does not commit an offence under this section if: “(a) the communication is intercepted in obedience to a warrant issued by a Judge, under Section 6; “(b) the communication is not intercepted in obedience to a warrant issued by a Judge, but on the authority of a designated officer in the case of a national emergency, or in responding to a case where approval for a warrant is impracticable,

having regard to the urgency of the case. “(3) The Court by which a person is convicted of an offence under this section may order that any device used to intercept a commu-

‘No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence…everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks’ -- UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights nication in the commission of the offence, shall be forfeited and disposed of as the Court thinks fit. “(4) For the purpose of subsection (1), a communication shall be taken to be in the course of transmission by means of a telecommunications system at any time when the system, by means of which the communication is being or has been transmitted, is used for storing the communication in a manner that enables the intended recipient to collect it, or otherwise have access to it.”

If there were breaches of this law, the Kaieteur News’ publisher could be looking at a fine of up to $5M or a jail term of up to three years.

UN STIPULATIONS Since last Monday, the privacy worries of officials, as well as private citizens, have been even more widespread.

In some quarters, concerned Guyanese are calling on the government to take

Two sustain gunshot ...

From page 4 Moreover, he had reportedly indicated that the men who had been approaching him had also come from the direction in which the car had sped off.

Sources partly briefed about the entire ordeal have told this publication that, after the incident, the businessman had driven to the police station, leaving the injured men on the ground; and he does not know how

they were transported to the hospital, and who had transported them.

The businessman had also indicated to persons close to him that when the men were approaching him, one was attempting to take a gun out of a haversack, and when he opened fire on them, the bag and gun were tossed aside. His contention is that someone had later returned to the

up the matter with the United Nations, based on the stipulations included in international law, and Guyana’s treaty obligations.

Firstly, the United Nation’s (UN) Universal Dec-

scene and had retrieved the haversack and the weapon.

This publication has been reliably informed that the businessman’s weapon has been confiscated by the police, and he has been detained while investigations continue. The injured men, though hospitalised, are not considered to be in critical or life threatening condition. (Leroy Smith)

laration Of Human Rights, which is applicable to all Member States, makes it clear, in Article 12, that: “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to

attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.”

Secondly, the UN’s International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which was ratified by Guyana in 1977, in Article 17, reiterates the same message.

Thirdly, last December, the UN General Assembly, of which Guyana is a party, unanimously voted to adopt a resolution calling for online privacy to be recognised as a human right – ‘The Right to Privacy in the Digital Age’. For the first time, the General Assembly established that human rights should be applicable both offline and online. The resolution has been introduced by Germany and Brazil after the revelations of

the extraterritorial extension of US surveillance in cyberspace. The resolution calls upon the 193 UN member states to “respect and protect the right to privacy, including in the context of digital communication” and “to review their procedures, practices and legislation on the surveillance of communications, their interception and collection of personal data, including mass surveillance.”

Additionally, Guyana’s Constitution, Article 154 (A), makes it clear that local functionaries in the judicial system, including judges, are required to take into account international law and Guyana’s treaty obligations in their deliberations. Article 154 (A) addresses the protection of human rights.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

SUPPORTING OUR LEADERS THE current imbroglio involving embattled Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, brings to the fore the dangers public and successful figures face from the disgruntled and/or criminal elements of society.

No-one with a well sense of self-preservation would choose to become a leader, unless a leader cares beyond self, or the primary intent is a self-centred one with self-aggrandisement being the prime motivator, and there is no greater example of this than our own national leaders.

The President of the country, as well as each Minister of Government and Heads of Departments all have their delineated mandate peculiar to a particular sphere of responsibility within the national construct; albeit sometimes these responsibilities overlap and bleed into each other.

Every one of these heads of entities has support staff holding varying portfolios, and it behooves every member of that support system to perform his duties with optimum effort and efficiency, because if one cog in the operational wheel leading to the delivery of service to the nation proves dysfunctional then the entire system becomes skewed and either diminishes and eradicates altogether

the product – the product in this case being an item of service to the people, and it is service to the people that is the business of Governments.

In every business, the position and responsibilities of the Chief Executive Officer is well-defined, and everyone knows that success or failure of the business entity lies on his shoulders. In other words, the buck stops at him, so if any cog in his support system fails then he has no recourse but to change it – fire the offender and hire a competent replacement.

The Chief Executive of Guyana does not have that luxury, and the governmental structure is overburdened with dysfunctional cogs, many of them planted by those who do not wish this administration well, so our President is aware that he has to adjust to the flaws within the wheel of governance with which he is constrained to work.

Today all the cogs of the administrative wheel are being attacked with the clear intent that the administrative structure will collapse.

No human being is without flaw, and even the successive leaders within the PPP/C have made mistakes, as have other heads within the governmental equation; but, by and large, the PPP/C leadership has been exemplary, so much so that

Guyana was described by a regional leader as the “only shining star in the Caribbean.”

However, every initiative that this Administration drives has been subjected to negative response from the political Opposition, as well as some members of the media, which can frustrate efforts and demotivate the leaders. The debilitating effects that these unwarranted and sustained attacks could have on one’s morale also take toll on one’s physical health.

Genuine commitment to the national development paradigm should be honoured and supported instead of being subjected to such a plethora of negativity and unrestrained and continuous attacks; that is, if we are truly committed to the ideal of nation-building.

And those who revile Heads of the nation and national institutions should sit back and re-think their positions. What would they, what could they do differently, or better, in similar situations and circumstances?

This question would stymie those who continually find fault with every initiative undertaken by the Government, as in the Skeldon Sugar Estate, the Enmore packaging plant, the OLPF, the LCDS, the Amaila Falls hydro project, as well as the plethora of other developmental initiatives – the Grow More Food campaign, for instance, without taking into consideration

that every project entered into by this Government is an innovation, because there is no precedence in development prior to 1992 – not on a nationalistic scale.

It is as if the malcontents of the nation would prefer to see the nation go into decline if the current administration is driving the successes, never mind the fact that everyone benefits from the outcomes of these initiatives when they eventually prove successful. But by that time the Opposition forces would have already done their mischief.

Many have preceded Anil Nandlall; and one wonders who next. When the Opposition had tabled a no-confidence motion against Minister Clement Rohee, one Opposition leader had threatened: “We will take you (Government ministers) down

one by one”.

So after Nandlall who next, because that Opposition leader is vociferously calling for Nandlall’s resignation.

Rohee and others have weathered the storm, and most likely Nandlall also will.

If we support our leaders, whomever they are, and strive together in unity, then all of us stand to reap the rewards – collectively, because our destiny is irrevocably interlinked, and our national glories and successes are things that we will all share in – as a Guyanese people.

So until General Elections, when we can vote for the change we want, let us support our leaders of the day. Everyone in our nation will win that way.

Any other course leads to diminishing our potentials, and the defeat of our country.

Hypocrisy and double standards of Lawyers Associations THE Guyana Bar Association/Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GBA/GAWL) never fail to amaze me. True to form, they have called for the resignation of the Attorney General over an illegal recording of a private conversation which, according to the Attorney General, was manipulated and distorted.

However, what I find to be extraordinary is the fact that none of these self-anointed paragons will ever be able to face the public if some of their private

conversations were ever made public without their permission.

I am not a lawyer, but I do know that persons must be able to speak freely in their private conversations and are not publicly answerable for those private conversations, if they are made public, unless of course a crime is committed in those conversations.

The current matter is with the Police. As far as I am aware the GBA/GAWL never sought an audience with the Attorney General.

Also, the very matter is be-

fore the Court by proceedings filed by the Attorney General. The Attorney General is on record as saying that the conversation was distorted and manipulated.

In those circumstances, by what legal principle did the GBA/GAWL make its findings and draw its conclusions. This mad rush to judgment without any due process is not only wrong, but reeks of an ulterior design. This can easily be discerned if a few incidents are recalled.

The public witnessed no reaction when an ex-

plosive recording between Member of Parliament Basil Williams and then Commissioner of Police Winston Felix was aired.

Based upon that recording, the then Commissioner of Police was heard to be planning, to commit, serious offences. No resignation was called for by the GBA/GAWL either from the Commissioner or Mr. Williams, a lawyer.

There was also silence to the numerous legal and ethical dilemmas that Mr. Nigel Hughes found himself in. For example, the

removal of a surveillance tape from a murder scene, a vital bit of evidence, then delivering it later to the police; the accusation of jury tampering in the Lusignan massacre where 11 people were killed, just to name a few.

I believe that when the GBA/GAWL was called upon to issue a statement in the latter matter the very President of the Bar Association response was, “that’s not our business.”

Also, when Mr. Raphael Trotman, attorney-at-law and Speaker of the Na-

tional Assembly, was accused of sexual molestation of a young boy, the public heard not a murmur from the GBA/ GAWL. It is sad to see the double standards and hypocrisy that is obvious in the way the GBA/GAWL deal with matters. I often wonder what really is their interest.

It certainly is not what is should be. The public should ignore the GBA/ GAWL until we are satisfied of their agenda.

RICHARD MENDOZA

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

7

Gov’t, CDB collaborate on Road Safety Education Programme for schools THE Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, through the Ministries of Public Works and Education, have commissioned an international consultancy firm - TRL, to strengthen road safety in the curriculum and increase knowledge, skills and understanding among children and young people.

TRL, the UK’s Transport Research Laboratory commissioned to undertake the programme, has conducted a review of existing road safety delivery in schools and created a baseline of data in which to monitor performance over the next two years.

Following the completion of this review, TRL yesterday delivered the first of two interactive training workshops (the second of which continues today), to road safety education stakeholders along the West Coast Demerara Road Improvement Corridor.

These training sessions will be held at the Leonora Secondary School, West Coast Demerara. The focus of the workshops will be to build capacity among all road safety education stake-

holders in preparation of a pilot project that will conclude in April 2016. If successful, the school road safety education programme will be implemented across the country.

The Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) currently leads road safety education in schools. Activities usually focus on ‘Back-to-School’ media campaigns and the training of students and teachers through the school safety patrol programme. Best practice recommends that road safety topics should be provided on a regular basis in the curriculum for the duration of a child’s academic tenure. Teaching should therefore reinforce existing concepts and introduce new skills as children develop. Good quality teaching materials and resources should be used to support the curriculum and ensure a standardised approach across the country.

Implementation of this school road safety education programme, will be coordinated by the Ministry of Education. The ministry will be supported in delivering the programme by schools and teachers, the Guyana

Police Force, Cyril Potter College of Education and the GNRSC. Whilst TRL will advise on road safety good practice, the training workshops allow teachers, traffic police, GNRSC and other stakeholders within the Ministry of Education, to play an active role in the development of a road safety education programme that is appropriate for schools in Guyana. Participants will assist in identifying where road safety can be integrated into existing curriculum subjects. Once this is established, participants will begin the process of developing materials and resources that can be used to effectively raise awareness among students of the most prevalent safety issues affecting their age group.

Further training will be provided in March 2015 before the implementation of the pilot programme. TRL will monitor changes in the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of students towards road safety as a measure of the success of the pilot programme before making any necessary amendments to support national implementation.

Ambassador Irwin La Rocque to address UG’s 48th Convocation

Ambassador Irwin La Rocque

S E C R E TA RY G e n eral of the Caribbean Community, Ambassador Irwin La Rocque, is expected to give the feature address at the University of Guyana (UG) Convocation ceremony slated for Saturday, November 8, on the university’s Turkeyen campus.

More than 1,400 students are expected to

graduate from the Faculties of Agriculture and Forestry, Education and Humanities, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Technology and the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

This 48th Convocation will also include the first batch of students from the Faculty of Health Sciences, who will

be graduating with the Bachelor of Science in Optometry and Medical Rehabilitation.

The grand rehearsal for the prospective graduates is scheduled for Friday, November 7, at 16:00 hrs on the campus.

Meanwhile, the Berbice campus Convocation will be held on November 22, at Tain, Corentyne, Berbice.

Astounded by news report of robbers violating sanctity, worshippers of St. Phillips Anglican Church THE Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) was astounded by the news report of robbers violating the sanctity of the Church and those that worshipped there. CIOG wishes to express to Father Oswald Barnes and the parishioners of St. Phillips Anglican Church, who were traumatised by this awful act, our most sincere regrets, and trust that Almighty God will grant

them comfort from the experience.

This act was a clear indication of the low moral standards that prevail in our country, and people from all religious and ethnic background should condemn this in the strongest possible terms. The time is rife for all leaders, be it religious or political, to act. Words of condemnation are insufficient. We need to review actions that can be

taken to ensure that respect and morality are restored in our society. Those who perpetrated this dastardly act, have neither love nor respect for God and His creations.

The CIOG calls on all stakeholders to demand that religious education be targeted at our schools, and which is aimed at advising young minds of their moral, religious and civic duties.

The dissemination of this

information must be complimented by the efforts of parents and guardians who have the responsibility to inculcate these positive attitudes of love, tolerance and contentment within the home environment.

SHAHABUDEEN AHMAD President (ag.) Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana

David DeGroot

Opposition political parties positively expose themselves against real advancement in Guyana

By David DeGroot THE country has achieved what looked an impossible accord with the Financial Action Task Force, International Cooperation Review Group (FATF – ICRG) in Paris, France; a remarkably successful achievement facilitated by a prudent strategy put together without the help of the combined parliamentary Opposition.

Mr Anil Nandlall, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, must take full credit for piloting the case for Guyana. This accord must be seen as a demonstration of what advances can be made by the country without the usual hullabaloo and nonsensical opposition originating from the political parties destined to hold back real development.

Just think of there being demand for labour and consequential employment opportunities that could have been created with the construction of the Amaila Falls Hydro project, similarly with the expansion of the CJIA and the Specialty Hospital projects. All would have increased the demand for labour.

There is absolutely no limit to the expansion of the economy and the creation of contributions towards building a modern society if these projects were to be put in place. The Opposition political parties must take full blame for stymieing the developments and positively expose themselves against real advancement of the country.

Guyanese must be prepared whenever the opportunity again arises to act responsibly and to ensure that any new government is given the power to execute development programmes. We cannot afford to be looked at as a country of backwardness without a genuinely democratic government capable of planning and executing the forward movement of our country.

The point being made – are we a people prepared to take the appropriate steps to get rid of Guyanese whose sole purpose is to oppose real development?

The example of the success achieved with the FATF – ICRG should give us the confidence that despite everything, we do in fact have the ability to survive and prosper.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

RODNEY’S DEATH: AN ENIGMA BEING ANSWERED Special Report on the Rodney Commission of Inquiry by Shaun Michael Samaroo Detailing PNC State machinery violence against WPA at Rodney Commission

Ramson wanted Smith extradited FORMER Attorney General of Guyana, Justice Charles R. Ramson, yesterday testified at the Presidential Commission probing the assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney, how anatmosphere of political paranoia harmfully affected him.

“The paradox of contradictions I experienced was that some members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) labelled me as WPA; the People’s National Congress (PNC) peddled the view that I was a PPP supporter; and the WPA considered me a PNC ‘plant’, maybe by virtue of my father’s public alignment with Mr. (Forbes) Burnham.

However, to this day, I have never joined any political party,” Ramson told the distinguished Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry, comprising outstanding legal luminaries from across the Caribbean.

Justice Ramson is appearing at the Commission to give testimony into the political atmosphere in Guyana when a bomb disguised as a communications device exploded in the lap of Dr. Rodney as he sat in his car on Camp Street on the dark night of Friday June 13, 1980, instantly killing the world-renown Guyanese scholar.

Dr. Rodney’s demise remained a cold case for 34 years, as the worst political assassination in the history of the Commonwealth Caribbean, and Ramson told the Commission that when he was Attorney General of this country he tried to solve the case.

As Attorney General, Justice Ramson particularly wanted to extradite the main suspect in the bombing, the late intelligence officer of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF), Gregory William Smith, to face a trial for the

Ramson’s comment in his Witness Statement to the Commission that he experienced a “paradox of contradictions,” with political parties labelling him partisan and biased, is a telling pronouncement: it speaks to the atmosphere of political paranoia in Guyana in 1978 to 1980, the period in which Dr. Rodney was assassinated and which is under probe at the Commission.

In this social environment of paranoia, division and lack of national unity, Dr. Rodney became leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), and by 1979, was “attracting unusually large crowds of people, young and old, from all ethnic groupings and classes”, succeeding in leading a healing of the divides and a bringing together of the factions, as the “most prominent and articulate leader” of the WPA, and vociferous in his condemnation of the PNC’s authoritarian disregard for the civil and human rights of Guyanese. assassination of Dr. Rodney, from French Guiana to Guyana. However, Justice Ramson’s efforts proved futile, and the Commission became a reality only after President Donald Ramotar convened it early this year, in the face of vociferous, irrational and disquieting disapproval from the PNC and its disgruntled sympathisers.

Evidence at the Commission unfolds a dark, sinister era in Guyanese history under the PNC Government, when Smith became a double agent for the Joint Intelligence Command, under the leadership of exCommissioner of Police, the late Laurie Lewis, in a daring conspiracy to execute a deadly plot to assassinate the populist Dr. Rodney, whose civil revolt to unseat the PNC Government mobilised the Guyanese people into a united voice.

For the past three and a half decades, worldwide suspicion fingered the PNC Government as the main culprit in conspiring and executing the dark, sinister plot to assassinate Dr. Rodney. Testimonies at the Commission pile up showing the PNC Government as a paranoid authoritarian State that felt no qualm in denying citizens their rights. However, the PNC

and its sympathisers blast the Commission, questioning its integrity and professionalism, ignoring the outstanding legal careers of Commissioners Jacqueline Samuels-Brown of Jamaica, Seenath Jairam of Trinidad and Tobago, and Chairman Sir Richard Cheltenham of Barbados.

Justice Ramson gave testimony that echoed much of what the Commission has heard over the past several months of public hearings at the High Court in Georgetown, noting that he faced intimidation, harassment, threats and bullying from the Police Force.

Naming names with ease, Justice Ramson became one of the first witnesses appearing at the historic Commission of Inquiry to identify high ranking Police officers as engaging in brutal violence and thug behaviour.

He grew up in Georgetown, and became politically aware at a young age, with his dad a close friend of then Head of State and leader of the PNC, Forbes Burnham.

In fact, “by way of further reward for (my father ’s) loyalty, I was offered by Mr. Burnham, then P.M., the position of the first Minister of Energy and Mines in 1973 after oil was discovered in the Takutu Basin in Region 9

Justice Charles R. Ramson

Dr Walter Rodney

but I respectfully declined,” Justice Ramson said.

Despite his close association with Burnham, Justice Ramson took a keen interest in the affairs of Trades Unions, and started representing them in matters against the State of the PNC Government.

He was, however, labelled anti-Government, with the Police targeting him.

Ramson’s comment in his Witness Statement to the Commission that he experienced a “paradox of contradictions,” with political parties labelling him partisan and biased, is a telling pronouncement: it speaks to the atmosphere of political paranoia in Guyana in 1978 to 1980, the period in which Dr. Rodney was assassinated and which is now under probe by the Commission.

In this social environment of paranoia, division and lack of national unity, Dr. Rodney became leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), and by 1979, was “attracting unusually large crowds of people, young and old, from all ethnic groupings and classes,” succeeding in leading a healing of the divides and a bringing together of the factions, as the “most prominent and articulate leader” of the WPA, and vociferous in his condemnation of the PNC’s authoritarian disregard for the civil and human rights of Guyanese.

Justice Ramson said he

started attending these large meetings in Georgetown, at Merriman’s Mall, Waterloo and Middle Streets Junction, Campbell Ave., Kitty, and Kitty Market Square.

But he noticed that top Police officers worked as thugs to break up the meetings, beating attendees and causing mayhem and confusion. “At all these meetings, uniformed Policemen and Special Branch operatives would be in attendance, some recording in diaries the names of persons and even the registration numbers of cars parked in the vicinity. Supt. Bentick, Inspector Chandra Lall of Alberttown Police Station and Snr. Supt. Carlos Prince, who was popularly known as ‘Idi Amin Dada,’ then secondin-command of ‘A’ Division, because of his vicious conduct and his close resemblance to the then President of Uganda, were some of the more visible officers.”

Justice Ramson said in the course of his work as attorney in the courts in Georgetown he became familiar with members of the Police Force.

“In addition, hecklers comprising House of Israel members and other vicious thugs would seek to break up these meetings or terrorise the spectators, in full view and without any serious attempt by the uniformed ranks to intervene or maintain the peace,” he said.

At one such meeting, Justice Ramson and Ian

Chang, now Chief Justice (ag), then a staffer at the office of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), were attending a WPA meeting, and before it could start, the Police used violence to disperse potential attendees.

“I refused and one of them, in full view of Bentick, lashed and poked me in my midriff area with a baton.

They said or did nothing to Chang! We re-entered my car for fear of my life and drove away,” Ramson told the Commission.

He filed legal action against the PNC Government, and lost the case, although he eventually won on Appeal. “Mr. Chang who testified on my behalf was sharply rebuked by the Chief Justice (V. E. Crane) for his involvement,” Ramson said.

Justice Ramson resumes the witness stand this morning, in a week that sees the Commission host some high profile names as witnesses.

Yesterday’s testimony sees the experienced, accomplished and highly regarded former Attorney General add a dimension to the piling up of evidence against the PNC Government’s draconian, dictatorial, repressive, paranoid rule of Guyana, whereby even the Judiciary suffered from the PNC State machinery’s crackdown on human rights, freedom of assembly and freedom of speech, and authoritarian control of citizen rights.

In such a poisoned political atmosphere, Dr. Rodney, along with several other members of the WPA, were killed in shadowy violence allegedly involving State organs of the PNC Government.

The Presidential Commission will issue an official report of its findings after the completion of its public hearings in Georgetown.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

9

No basis for AG to step down – says PPP General-Secretary

THERE is no basis for the Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Anil Nandlall to step down following allegations, which were levelled against him last week, according to General-Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr. Clement Rohee.

“On this issue there are many who had their say, there are many who had their take on this. I’ve been following the debates and the interventions very closely. Many have pronounced either by way of letters, press statements, press conferences, comments, interviews, the whole gamut; but there is one thing I must say about all that has been said so far, and that is that all that has been said so far is biased and negative and aimed at lynching Mr. Nandlall,” Rohee told reporters yesterday at the party’s weekly press conference, held at ‘Freedom House’ on Robb Street.

His comments follow the release of a 19-minute recording of the private conversation on October 25, between the Attorney-General and a senior Kaieteur News reporter, Mr. Leonard Gildharie.

The release was made by publisher of the Kaieteur News, Mohan Lall, also known as Glenn Lall.

He subsequently made a report to the Deputy Police Commissioner, Mr. Balram Persaud, premised on the contention that the contents of the recording indicate that his life, the lives of his family and staff members are under threat.

QUESTION OF DISCIPLINE Questioned by reporters as to what extent Nandlall should be disciplined at the party level, in terms of him stepping down, the Gener-

al-Secretary explained that if the basis for his resignation lies with the perception

This, Rohee contended, is the only balanced statement made thus far on the issue

the gutter” – a constant complaint from many persons in different sections of society.

“I maintain that the conversation that is causing much furor was a private conversation between me and an acquaintance for many years standing, which was illegally recorded, manipulated, distorted and taken out of context to reflect a different dialogue. The matter is in the court and I wish to leave it there. I have filed legal proceedings in respect of the matter. I will say nothing more at this stage” – AG Anil Nandlall

emanating from sections of the media, then he (Rohee) should have stepped down a while ago when the same section of the media developed a basis for him to step down.

Rohee was referring to the 2012 no-confidence motion passed against him in the National Assembly, which prevented him from speaking in the House and bringing Bills in his name as Minister of Home Affairs. The No-Confidence Motion was brought against Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee after the death of three protestors in the mining town of Linden on July 18, 2012.

Rohee further explained that since he has been following the debates and interventions that have been made so far as it relates to the phone conversation and the accusations against the Minister, it has been “biased, negative and aimed at lynching Nandlall.”

To date, he stressed, the only statement on the matter that has appeared balanced and fair has been that of the Government, where they condemned the despicable act of Kaieteur News to “distort and manipulate” a private conversation of a Government Minister.

surrounding the AG’s phone call.

Meanwhile, Nandlall, in an invited comment, told the Guyana Chronicle that his position on the matter, as previously expressed, remains the same.

“I maintain that the conversation that is causing much furor was a private conversation between me and an acquaintance for many years standing, which was illegally recorded, manipulated, distorted and taken out of context to reflect a different dialogue. The matter is in the court and I wish to leave it there. I have filed legal proceedings in respect of the matter. I will say nothing more at this stage,” Nandlall commented.

TWELVE POINTS Also, the PPP General-Secretary further expounded on the issue, pinpointing twelve points made by the AG in his conversation, which were completely ignored and disregarded by sections of the media that sought to push, through the issue, their own political agendas.

Rohee pointed out, firstly, that the Attorney-General was making a plea for the newspaper “not to be used to drag innocent people into

Rohee admonished, while urging reporters to examine the issue logically.

“I am not prepared to lay myself at the altar that has been painted over and over again at the expense of not looking at the other side of the coin,” Rohee posited..

“I won’t focus on those issues. I’m not going to allow myself to go into that arena that has had a field-day already to such an extent that some people believe that it’s

Rohee questioned what was there for the party to recover from. “If any damage was done, I’m sure we will recover…we have weathered storms worse than this before,” he assured.

Additionally, questions are still being asked on how Glenn Lall came into possession of the recording and if the reporter did not hand over the recording, then this constitutes a legal infraction.

Questions are also being

“Many have pronounced either by way of letters, press statements, press conferences, comments, interviews, the whole gamut…all that has been said so far is biased and negative and aimed at lynching Mr. Nandlall…If any damage was done (to the PPP), I’m sure we will recover; we have weathered storms worse than this before” – PPP General-Secretary, Clement Rohee The Kaieteur News, known for its sensational spin on news happenings, has been slapped with countless lawsuits and injunctions for libel.

Secondly, the PPP General-Secretary pointed out that the AG repeated in the controversial question that “no man is above the law.”

These two significant points, of the twelve, Rohee emphasised, were completely ignored by sections of the media that developed a “school of thought” to which he will not subscribe.

As such, he told reporters that he will develop a new school of thought where the issue should be examined in its entirety and not just on a one-sided basis.

“This issue should be taken from all the angles. There should be objective and balanced reporting when dealing with issues such as these,”

believable. I am not going there. In the same way as those who had a field day in that area, and chose not to go where I want to go, I will choose to go the other way.”

POLICE INVESTIGATION The General Secretary also stated that the issue is currently before the Guyana Police Force (GPF), which will conduct independent investigations.

“There is a police investigation and I think certain matters are also before the Court and the government has issued a statement and we want the government to hold firmly to its position,” Rohee said, adding that he would be “disappointed” if the government accedes to what he described as “blackmailing tactics.”

As it relates to the impact of the issue on the party,

asked under what circumstances the telephone conversation was recorded, if it was recorded by Gildharie or if it was a result of wiretapping activities – the latter representing another legal infraction.

Also, in some sections of society, concerned Guyanese are calling on the Government of Guyana to take this issue to the United Nations (UN), based on the stipulations included in international law and Guyana’s treaty obligations, which address Privacy as a human right.

The relevant UN policies include the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN’s International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN General Assembly’s December 2013 resolution, ‘The Right to Privacy in the Digital Age’.

Raped 12-yr-old gives birth to baby girl - Three in hot water for rape, file for DPP this week

By Leroy Smith SOURCES have confirmed that the 12-year-old interior resident who had reportedly been raped by her stepfather and two other persons has successfully delivered a baby girl late on Sunday night into yesterday morning.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the child, who was in protective care, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital after she began experiencing the onset of

labour pains. Shortly after being admitted to the hospital’s maternity ward, she was taken to the theatre to give birth to her child, under much supervision and monitoring by doctors.

Information reaching this newspaper yesterday suggested that three persons are likely to face the heat over the rape of the child, even as tests are to be carried out to determine which one of the three persons is actually father to the pre-teen’s baby.

Contacted on developments of the investigation, Crime Chief Leslie James reported

that the police are yet to send the file pertaining to the investigation to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

Head of the Child Care and Protection Agency, Ms Ann Green, yesterday told this publication that the department has done all that needs to be done to facilitate police investigations into the matter. Green said that statements which were gathered by the department were handed over to the police, and the department awaits feedback from the police.

When the news first broke about the

rape of the child, Green was quoted in this newspaper as saying that no person should be allowed to rape children and walk away with impunity. She said the practice must stop, and that there are laws which protect children.

The pre-teen will be returned to her protective care after she has been discharged from the hospital, and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through the Child Care and Protection Agency, would be taking care of her child until such time that the 12year- old is capable of mothering her child in a responsible manner.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

Despite experienced prosecutors…

Successful prosecutions in ‘B’ Division remain a challenge - Commander Joseph

By Leroy Smith A MAJOR bugbear to policing in ‘B’ Division is the challenge in upping the rate of successful prosecutions when certain matters end up in the court.

This is according to Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Brian Joseph during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle in the division last week.

Commander Joseph said that the divisional administration, and by extension the force’s administration, has been dealing with police ranks who fail to show up in court and offer evidence or testify. However, they are usually disciplined for such cases of absenteeism and any reports of their misconduct are also investigated and dealt with.

UPHILL TASK However when it comes to the court and prosecutions, the police are facing an uphill task, according to Joseph. He pointed out that whenever repeat offenders gain their pretrial liberty they often repeat the very offences for which they were initially charged or in some cases they commit even more serious crimes.

The commander said that the division has several experienced prosecutors who have been practicing for years and in almost each case they have all been practicing for more than five years. The most junior prosecutor in the division is Corporal Joseph, he pointed out.

It was mentioned that recently a man was charged for two counts of robbery under arms and then again

and this was stated in the court but bail was still granted by the magistrate.

Brian Joseph

robbery with aggravation and he was placed before the court. On the second appearance, the accused was placed on $75,000 bail by the magistrate.

In that case the accused was arrested after public-spirited citizens had caught the man red handed with booty from his crime

LIVES ON THE LINE “Although we do not have no control over the courts and how the magistrate comes to his or her decisions, actions or development such as the one I mentioned do not encourage the young policemen and women who put their lives on the line to bring these people to justice,” Joseph noted.

In that case also, the suspect was at the time of the robbery on bail for two other offences which he had allegedly committed, the commander told this newspaper.

However, these observations by the commander of ‘A’ Division is supported by almost all senior police officers who lament this fact

whenever they speak of the relationship between the court and the police.

In some cases the police are accused of presenting weak arguments but when one takes into consideration the quality and years of service of the prosecutors who preside in some of these cases, there is often the contention about the need to repeal a number of laws which are now in the law books regarding certain offences.

Despite that challenge, however, the senior police officer said that they will continue to work with their ranks who never cease to be exposed to several training programmes in the areas of successful prosecution.

He added also that whenever there are instances where prosecutors or their supervisors realise that there may be some issues that are

causing their matters to fall through, they are pulled in and given further training to address those deficiencies immediately.

Training for the prosecutors in the division is also conducted by the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Joseph said.

In the meantime, Commander Joseph did not hesitate to commend his ranks who, according him, have been doing a very good job at prosecuting matters in the court and they have been receiving added guidance from Deputy Commander Marlon Chapman who is a trained and experienced investigator.

He has been guiding the ranks in preparing cases, especially when it comes to matters pertaining to serious offences.

Father of four killed after First meeting of leaving uncle’s wake Skeldon estate Daniel Stephen case…

– both died in road accidents, resided in same village

By Leroy Smith FRANKLYN Bennett Beveney, a 54-year-old father of four who resided at lot 37-38 Plantain Walk Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara was early yesterday morning killed when he lost control of the motorcycle he was riding and collided with a bridge.

A female companion who was the pillion rider on the motorcycle, CG 1027, told family members and the police that the man’s vision became blurred by the high beam of a truck travelling in the opposite direction.

The man who is also known as ‘Rudy’ in his village was at the time heading east along the East Coast Highway to drop the woman at Enterprise after they were both at the wake of Randolph Rodney, Beveney’s 72-year-old uncle who was killed in a road accident last Friday evening while crossing the road. Both men are from Beterverwagting Village.

The dead man’s wife Dawn Cadogan Beveney said she was at home yesterday morning when his relatives visited her, enquiring whether he had slept home.

‘DEAD’: Franklyn Bennett Beveney

They had been told that the man might have been in an accident and died.

The woman and her children then visited the accident scene but the man was not there. However, other relatives went to the hospital where they positively identified the body of Beveney.

This is not the first time that Beveney who is a lover of motorcycles was in a road accident. Ironically, yesterday morning prior to the accident, the motorcycle had developed mechanical problems at the exact spot where the man’s uncle was killed two nights earlier and whose wake Beveney was returning from when he met his demise.

Asked about the female companion the man was travelling with when he crashed into the bridge, relatives indicated that they did not know her. She was however at the hospital suffering from minor injuries to the head and arm.

On Friday night Randolph Rodney was attempting to cross the road when he was struck by a vehicle and later died while receiving medical attention. The police are still investigating that accident, even as the truck driver who is said to have caused Beveney to lose control of his motorcycle cannot be located as he continued along his way.

arbitration tribunal set for tomorrow

THE first meeting of the arbitration tribunal to address the suspension of Mr. Daniel Stephen, a worker at the Skeldon sugar estate, is set for tomorrow.

This was according to President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Mr. Komal Chand.

The tribunal will enquire into the disciplinary action taken against Stephen, where the evidence and submission by the parties will come under scrutiny as an award is to be determined.

The move to arbitration follows the rejection by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) of the recommendation of the Ministry of Labour to reinstate Steven, who was suspended after an altercation with an estate manager.

MASSIVE STRIKE

The suspension last month resulted in a massive strike in the sugar belt and subsequent agreement between GuySuCo and GAWU. Six conditions were agreed to by the Union and GuySuCo: that the strike by field and factory workers will end; the Union will ensure full resumption of duties by field and factory workers from the day the strike ended; there will be no victimisation on either side because of strike actions; all workers who were on strike will not have their ‘strike day’ counted as absent, but as days not available for work; that the dismissal of the Skeldon factory employee, Mr. Steven Daniels, will be now treated as a suspension, without pay, until the end of the reconciliation talks; and within 24 hours, after resumption of duties,

Mr. Komal Chand

the aggrieved parties – including GAWU – will meet with the Chief Labour Officer, who will make a final decision on the matter.

The Ministry of Labour’s recommendations were not binding but those of the arbitration tribunal will be. (Navendra Seoraj)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

Chartered Accounts Institute bemoans Kaieteur News’ distortions THE Institute of Chartered Accounts of Guyana (ICAG), in advertisements in all the local dailies, on Sunday, has bemoaned the disinformation peddled by the Kaieteur News.

“A number of inaccurate assertions are made in the release with reference to the Institute, and the Institute has determined for the sake of public education and confidence to inform the public concerning the role of the Institute and the basis of its authority,” the body said.

The embattled daily is the only news outlet to have repeatedly published statements that suggested that the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur, has committed gross professional misconduct and can be sanctioned by the ICAG. The newspaper suggested too that ICAG has commenced investigations against Mr. Sattaur.

CALL FOR CONFIRMATION Sattaur’s lawyer, Mr. Mahendra Satram, subsequently called on the ICAG to confirm that it has launched an investigation into the GRA Head’s conduct, via a letter to the Institute.

“It is highly irregular for the Association to commence or conduct an investigation

or inquiry without notifying the affected member. For this reason it is suspected that these publications may be fabrications on the part of the aforementioned persons, however, the silence of the Association and its executives leave room for speculation,” Satram had said.

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

“My clients will pursue their statutory duties and obligations with professionalism and rectitude… my clients view these developments as alarming and distressing and expect the

Institute to disassociate itself from such reprehensible conduct. I anticipate your expeditious response and action,” Satram said.

The ICAG’s advertisement follows Satram’s call.

In it, the body noted that the process for such an investigation is clearly outlined in its bylaws and not as nearly as simplistic as inferred by the Kaieteur News.

“The Institute’s rules of professional conduct which are applicable to members are those set out in the code of ethics for professional accountants issued by the international federation of accountants (IFAC), through the international ethics standard board for accountants.

The code of ethics defines a professional accountant as “an individual who is a member of an IFAC member body. The Institute is a member body of IFAC,” the body said.

ICAG’S MANDATE According to ICAG, its mandate is made clear in its bylaws. It said, “The functions of those separate committees are stated in the bylaws as follows: “10.11 The investigations committee shall, when necessary or desirable, investigate the conduct and good standing of members and students and any matter

Two schoolboys charged with robbery with violence

SCHOOLBOY, Dennis Thomas, 18 , of Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, and his 14–year-old peer, of Hampshire Squatting Area, appeared before Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus last Friday, charged with two counts of robbery with violence.

Police allege that the duo, on October 11 last, at Albion Public Road, Corentyne, robbed Stephon Norah and Rakeel Gordon of two cellular phones valued at $116,000 and $1500 in cash.

They were each ordered to post $80,000 bail before being released into the cus-

tody of their guardians.

Reports reveal that Norah and Gordon had travelled from Springlands to Albion to view inter-club cricket matches at the Albion Sports Complex.

They were entrusted with the cellular phones owned by Junior Blair and Javon Ali, both of whom were players in the matches.

Norah and Gordon were further entrusted with $1500 to purchase food. It was on their way to the restaurant that they were confronted by the defendants on a bicycle.

The schoolboys, armed with knives, allegedly choked and robbed their

victims, before escaping.

Meanwhile, on October 24, at the Inter-Branch School Sports at Skeldon Community Centre Ground, Norah was watching the athletic activity when he pointed out the older defendant to the police.

Subsequently, the teenager was taken to the Albion Police Station, where he identified the younger defendant, who was subsequently arrested. The cellular phones were later handed over to the complainants.

The matter has been transferred to Albion Court for hearing. (Jeune Vankeric)

referred to it by the council.

This committee shall have the power to make enquiries from members and students about professional matters, and to require the production of books, documents and working or other papers.

“10.12 The disciplinary committee will conduct hearings of charges preferred against members and students by the investigations committee.”

Additionally, Section 10.8 of the bylaws also provides for an appeal committee.

The stipulations, in the Institute’s bylaws, are that: “10.8 There shall be constituted an appeal which shall consist of all members of the council not on the investigations committee of the disciplinary committee.

“Section 21 of the bylaws goes on to describe the process that should be followed with respect to charges laid against any member: it is reproduced for reference.

“21.1 Any person may address to the council in writing a charge or charges of professional misconduct on the part of any member.

“21.2 Any person may address to the council in writing a charge or charges of unfitness, lack of moral character or professional or other misconduct on the part of any member or of any

registered student.

“21.3 If without any such charge, any seeming unfitness, lack of moral character or professional or other misconduct on the part of a member or of a registered student shall come to the notice of the secretary, he may make inquiries with regard thereto and thereafter may report in writing to the council the facts ascertained by him. The Council may in its discretion deal with the report as if it constituted a charge or charges under the bylaws and thereupon such report shall be deemed to be a charge or charges under the bylaws for all purposes.

“21.4 Any charge or charges under the preceding bylaws shall be laid before the Council.

“21.5 The council may in its discretion take whatever action it deems proper in connection with any such charge or charges, and without limiting the generality of its power may, among other things, refer the charge or charges to the investigations committee.”

“The Institute trusts that this information clears up some of the misconceptions which may have been created by the inaccurate assertions contained in the press release, and lends to a better appreciation of the role and importance of the Institute

in regulating the profession of accountancy in Guyana and ensuring the ethical conduct of its members,” ICAG concluded.

The Institute is a statutory body established under the Instituted of Chartered Accounts of Guyana Act 1991.

The objects of the Institute are clearly defined in that Act and include, inter alia: “To regulate the discipline and professional conducts of its members and its registered students by maintaining a strict standard of professional ethics.”

In line with Section Six of the Act, the direction, control and management of the affairs of the Institute are vested with a council which comprises eight members of the Institute. The council is empowered under the Act to appoint various sub-committees including an Investigation Committee and a Disciplinary Committee.

Also, the Institute is not a subsidiary of any professional body resident in the United Kingdom, but as a regulatory and disciplinary body with an independent statutory mandate in Guyana.

The statements by Kaieteur News follow a move by the GRA to institute charges against its publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall and other associated parties relative to tax evasion.

Faceless body probably attacked by piranha GOVERNMENT Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh has determined that drowning was the cause of death of the faceless man whose body was fished out from a canal aback Onverwagt Village, West Coast Berbice, a week ago.

This was determined following a post mortem conducted on Joseph Semple’s body at the Fort Wellington Cottage Hospital Mortuary on Wednesday.

The body was discovered by a group of village boys who had made their usual trek to the canal for a swim.

The man was faceless, and it is believed that the body was attacked by piranha, the sweet water fish known for its sharp teeth, strong jaws and voracious appetite.

The deceased was last seen consuming alcohol about a mile from where his body was discovered.

Semple, who would usually cross the canal by swimming to get to his home, is believed to have slipped, lost consciousness, and may have sustained injuries, resulting in a blood flow that attracted the pira-

Joseph Semple

nha which rapidly sheared the soft tissues off his face.

The Semple family is involved in cattle rearing and cash crop farming. (Jeune Vankeric)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

GEA records seven fuel smuggling – more than 35,000 convictions for 2014 fuel tests done annually THE Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has indicated that, thus far for the year 2014, it has recorded seven convictions, a total which has already surpassed the two convictions recorded in the previous year.

This brings the total number of convictions recorded

by the GEA, since the implementation of the Fuel Marking Programme, to 33.

The GEA noted that on October 13th, 2014, four defendants - Ramnarine Hardyal, Ramlattie Hardyal, Desmond France and Orton Benjamin pleaded guilty to the offence of possession of

illegal petroleum at the Charity Magistrate’s Court, on the Essequibo Coast.

The Agency, in a statement, said it has intensified its enforcement operations in its commitment to combat fuel smuggling.

It noted that Inspectors attached to the Fuel Mark-

Fuel seized in the Lower Cuyuni River

ing Programme visit about 15,000 sites and conduct more than 35,000 tests annually.

From 2006 to 2013, the percentage of sites found with significant dilution in at least one tank has progressively decreased from 34% in 2006 to 3% in 2013. Additionally, the GEA said (at the

end of October 2014) thirteen prosecutions are ongoing at various courts throughout Guyana.

The GEA said it remains resolute in its battle to combat fuel smuggling and wishes to remind citizens that when smugglers engage in illegal trade, they evade taxes and divert revenue intended

Dr. Mahender Sharma, CEO Guyana Energy Agency

for Guyana’s development to their own needs.

The GEA encourages all persons who may have information relating to fuel smuggling and possession of illegal fuel to contact the Agency at 226-0394 or 624-5905.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

President’s call for Parliament to resume - says House is ‘welcomed but unnecessary’ Speaker PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar has directed that steps be taken to convene a sitting of the National Assembly within the next 14 days.

However, House Speaker Raphael Trotman contends that while the Head of State’s direction is welcomed, it is unnecessary.

“My view is that on January 9, 2012, the President issued the proclamation for the 10th parliament to commence work on January 12, 2012. A second call to ‘resume’ work is constitutionally unnecessary, but yet welcomed,” he said to the Guyana Chronicle in an invited comment yesterday.

Trotman and the current Administration have differed on who has the authority to call a sitting of the House, which came out of recess on October 10, but had not met since July 10.

His last request for a sitting to be called was refused by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sherlock Isaacs, who maintained that the authority to call a sitting, as per Standing Order 8, lies with the Central Government.

Standing Order 8 addressed the grounds on which sittings are called and states clearly where the au-

than that to which it stands adjourned, the Speaker may give notice accordingly and the Assembly shall meet at the time stated in such notice. The Clerk shall as soon as possible inform each Member in writing, or telegram or by appropriate electronic means of any such earlier meeting.”

President Donald Ramotar

thority to call such a sitting lies.

The ‘Ordinary Sitting of the Assembly’ is addressed in Standing Order 8 (1), which says: “(1) Save as otherwise provided by the Constitution or resolved by the Assembly upon a motion moved by a Minister, the Assembly may sit every day except Saturdays and Sundays and, unless the Assembly otherwise decide, every adjournment of the Assembly shall be to the next Sitting day.”

Standing Order 8 (2), ‘Sitting convened at the discretion of the Speaker’, adds that: “(2) If, during an adjournment of the Assembly, it is represented to the Speaker by the Government, or the Speaker is of the opinion, that the public interest requires that the Assembly should meet on a day earlier

MEETINGS WITH OPPOSITION LEADER The delay in calling a sitting was due to the ongoing talks between the Head

Raphael Trotman

of State and the Opposition Leader, Brigadier (rtd.) David Granger.

Mr. Ramotar on Saturday noted that having been apprised of the Leader of the Opposition’s recent statement in the media with re-

gard to talks between himself and the President, there is no longer any benefit to the country for any further delays in convening a sitting of the National Assembly.

Prior to this, the Parliamentary Management Committee has agreed to let the party Whips, from the Government and Opposition, Ms. Gail Teixeira and Ms. Amna Ally, to hold discussions to settle on a date for the next sitting of the National Assembly.

According to Government Chief Whip, Ms. Gail Teixeira, a date was not agreed at this level, since she abided with the understanding that the engagement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition should be allowed to evolve.

“I reminded her (Ms. Amna Ally) and reiterated on more than one occasion that once there was an opening and the President and Leader of the Opposition were engaged in some kind of dialogue that this process should be given a chance to evolve. I told her l would await the outcome of this engagement and advised her to do the same,” Teixeira said in a prior comment.

Additionally, the Government reiterates its position that the convening

‘Paulie Gulliver’ to know fate November 19 – pleads guilty to manslaughter

By Jeune Vankeric DHARAMPAUL Gopaul, 53, spent his mother’s pension to purchase alcohol, which resulted in an altercation and the fatal stabbing of his drinking partner, Mukesh Nandkissore.

At the Berbice Assizes, Gopaul, known as Paulie Gulliver, who had initially pleaded not guilty to the capital offence, threw in the towel and pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter, which was accepted by the State.

However, sentencing has been postponed to November 19, when a report on the prisoner’s background will be presented by the Probation and Welfare Services.

State Prosecutrix Ms. Renita Singh, relaying the

facts before Justice James Bovel Drakes and the mixed jury, stated that on February 6, 2009, at 10:00hrs Gopaul was at his home in company with two friends, Seenarine Mangar and Mukesh Nandkissore.

Mukesh was cooking, and Gopaul had sent Seenarine to the shop to buy rum. Later, Gopaul’s mother enquired from her son his reason for taking her pension money to by rum.

At about the same time, one Julia Griffith, 82, was walking towards her farmland aback Portuguese Quarters, when she saw three men in Gopaul’s yard. She heard quarrelling and stopped to hear the reason for the dispute.

Ms. Griffith heard Gopaul tell Nandkissore

“What you want, I will give you,” and she heard him say this three times.

The third time, Gopaul picked up a cutlass, which was on the stairway and asked Nandkissore, ”Tell me now what you want.”

He then struck Nandkissore on the neck with the cutlass. Nandkissore fell to the ground, bleeding profusely from the neck.

On February 9, 2009, Dr Vivikakand Brijmohan performed a post-mortem and gave the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage, and an incised wound to the neck, which was so deep, it severed muscles and the jugular vein.

In an unsworn statement from the dock, Dharampaul Gopaul told the Judge that he was drinking on that fatal

day. However, he could not recall the events of the day, as he was under the influence of alcohol.

“I can’t really remember what happen; sorry for what happen, Sir.” Futhermore, Defence Counsel, Ms. Kim KyteJohn noted that the prosecution disclosed that her client was consuming alcohol bought from his mother’s pension money.

However, noting the totality of circumstances, the former Magistrate said her client never intended to kill or cause actual bodily harm .

“What was clear, was that he was no longer the master of his mind. Alcohol impaired his judgment, and his ability to judge,” she emphasised.

of a sitting of the National Assembly must be done in accordance with the Standing Orders and long cherished parliamentary practices.

The Government had a number of pending legislative matters to be brought

before the House prior to the annual recess. Further there are important financial papers relating to the development of the country and growth of the economy that need to be urgently addressed.

PM Hinds confirms…

Some Guyoil service stations out of gas

– Government monitoring the situation

By Leroy Smith PRIME Minister, Mr Samuel Hinds last evening confirmed to the Guyana Chronicle that since Saturday, the Government has noticed that there has been a low availability of gasoline at the Staterun Guyoil gas stations, primarily in Regions Three(West Demerara-Essequibo Islands) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The Prime Minister, who is also responsible for petroleum, has said that the shortage is not being experienced in Georgetown and other areas outside of Regions Three and Six. He, however, said that based on his information and latest update, fuel boats were discharging fuel at the distribution terminals in Regions 3 and 6.

This newspaper told PM Hinds that the fuel shortage,

or the running out of gasoline, is not something that is being experienced at the other service stations, since no such report had been received from those places.

Asked what might be responsible for the drastic reduction of fuel at the service stations controlled by the government, Prime Minister Hinds said that development might be as a result of increased sales at the outlets.

He also pointed to the “tight” supplies which have been reported by the larger companies as being responsible for the fuel situation in this part of the globe. Asked if the government would be meeting with the suppliers and local gas station operators, Prime Minister Hinds said the development is currently engaging the attention of the Government of Guyana.

Betsy Ground man jailed for assaulting wife

…she was drunk and did not prepare his food MAHADEO Ramnarine, 43, of Betsy Ground, East Canje, Berbice, assaulted his wife with a piece of wood, after he returned home from work and discovered that the woman did not prepare any food, as she was in a drunken state.

An argument erupted, with the defendant using a series of expletives before taking up a piece of wood that was nearby and lashed his wife, Jennifer Andrew, several times.

Police Sergeant Godfrey Playter, prosecuting, said Ramnarine then armed himself with a knife and threatened to kill the woman.

Magistrate Sherdel Isaa-

cs-Marcus , questioned the complainant as to whether a medical certificate was issued. The woman replied saying there was no certificate as she did not have a national identification card.

Consequently, Ramnarine was fined $15,000, with an alternative of 20 days imprisonment, and a one-year bond on each charge of abusive language and common assault. Then he was granted $10,000 bail on the charge of using threatening language after he pleaded not guilty to that charge.

The defendant, a father of five, has opted to serve his term of imprisonment.

(Jeune Vankeric)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

$412M in contracts awarded for improving cleanup efforts

by NDCs, Municipalities

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Norman Whittaker (centre) with contract awardees and other representatives from the Local Government Ministry

By Derwayne Wills YET another lump sum of $412M in contracts was awarded by the Ministry of Local Government yesterday to increase the efforts, in Georgetown and in the regions, of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Municipalities and Regional authorities in the ‘Clean-Up My Country’ Programme.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT The awareness and involvement of the public has always been the intention of the national cleanup efforts and while some NDCs actively engage in exercises, others are yet to show their capacity to follow, Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker has said.

“Part of our [Government’s] investment has gone into building that capacity where it doesn’t exist, and strengthening that capacity where it exists but is somewhat unnoticeable,” Minister Whittaker added.

The Local Government system in Guyana was developed in the 19th Century during the post-slavery era and over the centuries has developed into a diverse system that boasts six municipalities and 65 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils. $1B MASSIVE CLEAN-UP The Guyana Government earlier this year approved $1B for a massive clean-up campaign extending across the ten administrative regions. $500M was set aside for

the Georgetown Clean-up while $100M was set aside for clean-up of Le Repentir Cemetery. The clean-up of the other regions will be covered by the remaining $500M. A great part of the programme was set towards the procurement of equipment for use in NDCs, municipalities and by regional bodies. “We have procured a number of tractors and trailers to give to as many NDCs as possible,” said Whittaker.

While acknowledging that some NDCs are in need of help, Whittaker made no bones about some NDCs being able to purchasing tractors and trailers on their own strength.

GENEQUIP CONTRACTS Of the contracts awarded during yesterday’s

meeting at the Local Government Ministry boardroom, Kingston, General Equipment Guyana Limited (GENEQUIP) received most of those contracts with over $256M for the supply of 45 tractors and 45 trailers.

Giving brief remarks on the contracts awarded, the Local Government Minister said: “A lot of investment is in strengthening that capacity so that the NDCs and the Municipalities can do more towards the clean-up of the environment and the maintaining of the newfound environment.”

Last August, it could be recalled, as published by this newspaper, the Eccles/Ramsburg NDC purchased one John Deere tractor and trailer and one Bobcat Skid-Steer Loader from MACORP Guyana,

and General Equipment Guyana Limited to the sum of $13M. BINS AROUND CITY Additionally, indiscriminate dumping continues to be priority concern for the Local Government Ministry. Adding to the distribution of tractors and trailers to the various NDCs to deal with indiscriminate dumping, the subject Ministry has similarly procured 145 skip-metal bins from DAX contracting at a value of $33.1M. Some of these bins will be placed around the capital city while others will be distributed throughout the regions.

In other contractual awards, MACORP received some $44M for the supply of five mini-excavators to be used in the

regional efforts, while Puran Brothers managed to cop two contracts at a grand total of $64.8M for the supply of 5,500 barrels for use as household receptacles, and 600,000 garbage bags.

The second phase of the landfill site Access Road at Zorg-en-Hoop in Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) was contracted to J.B. Brothers in the sum of $6M. A deadline of December 31, 2014 still stands for the expenditure of $1B under the Government’s national clean-up programme.

The Local Government Ministry anticipates that other works will be contracted for and completed in the coming weeks, according to Permanent Secretary in the Local Government Ministry, Collin Croal.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

Alberrtown Clean-up crew pledges work completion by month-end

By Derwayne Wills A L B E RT TO W N re s i dents were greeted early last Thursday morning by an unfamiliar sight as community clean-up works for the Central Georgetown neighbourhood began.

Coming on the wings of the Georgetown CleanUp campaign, the Local Government Ministry recently contracted for works to be done in the community. Concerned residents swiftly mobilised as a group and approached the ministry.

The ministry then contracted the group to complete the Alberttown works in two blocs. “The Alberttown area is located from Lamaha Street to Church Street, [and from] Cummings Street to Albert Street,” according to James Vanderhyden, Leader of the Community Development Group currently undertaking drainage works in Alberttown.

With an expected team of 50, Vanderhyden remains positive that based

the various communities and at the same time encourages residents to take pride in their immediate environment.

Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker in recent times underscored that while the bulk of the clean-up project had been limited to major works such as de-silting major canals, cemetery rehabilitation and improv-

the clean-up of your own community.”

Commenting on how this system will be monitored, he disclosed that a Clerk of Works at the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development would be employed with direct oversight responsibility over community groups utilising funds for environmental upkeep.

Community Group Leader, James Vanderhyden

on the time factor of between 20 to 30 days, his team will complete all works by the end of November. “The group is strictly from Alberttown and we all came together as the good Samaritans,” Vanderhyden said, when asked how the workers were organised.

All team members are confirmed to be from the Alberttown area. The Ministry of Local Government and Regional De-

velopment through the ‘Clean-Up My Country’ Programme and through community consultations informed residents throughout that the ministry will be working along with organised labourers coming from the community where the works are being done.

SENSE OF PRIDE This was aimed at ensuring that the $1B project creates employment in

Workers assembled in First Street, Alberttown (Part of Bloc 1)

PPP lauds President, Administration for hosting Toshaos Conference

– notes that Amerindians no longer second-class citizens THE ruling People’s Progressive Party yesterday, at their weekly press conference, lauded the efforts of President Donald Ramotar and his PPP/C administration on the successful hosting of yet another Toshaos Conference which concluded last Saturday at the National Convention Centre, while noting that Amerindians are no longer second class citizens.

The Party noted that the hosting of such an event was a clear indication of the importance placed by the PPP/C administration on Amerindians and hinterland development which for years under colonialism and

ing the capacity of NDCs, “there are other works that need to be done - internal drains, alleyways and vegetation... [And] we want to involve the people in the community in doing it.”

Through organised groups, Whittaker said, sources of revenue will be provided to the community volunteers so that they “can feel a sense of pride that you are involved in

for over two decades under the previous PNC administration were neglected and pushed into the backwater of the development process.

The conference which was designed to provide the opportunity for Amerindian leaders to interface with the President and other policy makers at the national and regional level, seeks to collaboratively address issues and find solutions to challenges faced by the Toshaos in various communities.

Attending the conference were various sector Ministers and senior Government officials and this paved the way for direct discussions on issues affecting this minority group.

According to the Party, from all indications, the conference was a huge success and was highly appreciated by the Toshaos and other participants.

“There can be no doubt that Amerindian development has been greatly accelerated by a menu of measures initiated by the PPP/C Government which over the years have had a transformative effect on the lives and well-being of our Amerindian brothers and sisters,” the ruling Party said yesterday.

NO LONGER SECOND-CLASS They noted also that Amerindians are no longer sec-

ond class citizens as was the case under the PNC regime but are now an integral part of national development processes and more particularly in the development of their own communities.

“The PPP is proud of the role played by our Toshaos in the development of their respective communities and wish them success as they seek to further improve the quality of life of our Amerindian people,” the PPP said.

As such, the party took the opportunity to pledge its continuing support to Amerindian leaders, the Amerindians and hinterland people as a whole in their continuing drive to improve their lives. (Ravin Singh)

Man gets nine months for Lamaha Park break-in A YOUNG man was yesterday sentenced to nine months imprisonment on a break and enter and larceny charge before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Cleveland Allen, 23, pleaded guilty to the charge that said on October 28 at Lamaha Park, Georgetown, he broke and entered the dwelling place of Jaroo Azore and stole therein one laptop computer and one cellular phone, together valued $210,000.

Police Prosecutor Michael Grant told the court

that on the day in question around 07:30 hrs, the defendant returned home and noticed that his windows were opened. He searched around his home and discovered the articles mentioned were missing.

The unrepresented defendant told the court that he did not have anything to say in relation to the matter.

Before sentencing, the Chief Magistrate took into consideration the convict’s plea, the fact that it was the first time he was being charged and that the articles were recovered.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

PAHO/WHO mobilises Ebola preparedness teams in Latin America and the Caribbean

Washington, D.C (PAHO/ WHO) – THE Pan American Health Organization/ World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is mobilising teams of experts in outbreak alert and response to help member states in Latin America and the Caribbean ensure they are prepared for any potential introduction of Ebola virus disease (EVD).

PAHO/WHO missions will visit member countries over the next two months to assess countries’ levels of preparedness to detect, treat and control the spread of any potential imported case of Ebola. In coordination with national health authorities, the missions will assess gaps and make recommendations for addressing them, and PAHO/WHO will provide follow-up technical cooperation based on individual countries’ needs.

In addition, PAHO/WHO experts and experts from the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) will be deployed if an imported case of Ebola is identified in any PAHO/ WHO member country, to assist national health authorities in implementing their EVD response plans.

No cases of Ebola have been reported in Latin America or the Caribbean to date. However, “the risk of an imported case in the Region is real,” said Dr. Marcos Espinal, Director of PAHO/WHO’s Department of Communicable Diseases and Health Analysis. “It is important that our countries’ health systems be prepared to respond quickly to cases of Ebola and make sure it does not spread.”

To be prepared for a potential case of Ebola, countries need to have the ability to detect a patient with symptoms. Healthcare workers must be famil-

Dr. Carissa Etienne

iar with screening criteria (symptoms and history of travel/exposure) and know when to isolate patients.

They also need to know how to protect themselves from exposure to the virus in the course of their work. Health officials need to know how to prepare and send medical specimens for testing and which laboratories are able to diagnose Ebola. Ministry officials must know how and when to carry out contact tracing.

PAHO/WHO has been working closely with its member countries to ensure they have the necessary policies, procedures and human resource capacity in place to manage any introduction of Ebola. PAHO/WHO’s work in this area has included a series of virtual and faceto-face training sessions on preparedness, risk communication and logistics, as well as the dissemination of norms and guidelines on infection control, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), collection and management of samples with highly pathogenic agents, disease surveillance, and laboratory procedures.

The new PAHO/WHO preparedness missions will examine and make recommendations in the following key areas, with the goal of ensuring that country capacities are in line with recommended standards under the International Health

Regulations (IHR): ● Coordination mechanisms for key institutions involved detecting and responding to potential Ebola cases. ● Epidemiological investigation, surveillance and laboratory capacity, particularly to ensure rapid identification of suspected cases, diagnostic confirmation, and contact tracing. ● Logistics, ensuring that needed supplies are available, especially personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers, and that effective mechanisms for shipping laboratory specimens are in place. ● Communication capacity to ensure transparency and public trust in health authorities and general compliance with public health measures.

These efforts are part of the new PAHO/WHO Framework for Strengthening National Preparedness and Response for Ebola Virus Disease in the Americas, which provides the basis for the Organization’s technical cooperation, response and resource mobilisation for the possibility of imported Ebola in the Region.

PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne also announced last week that she is appointing Dr. Ronald St. John as Ebola Incident Manager. Dr. St. John is a Canadian national who has extensive expertise in preparedness and response in the health sector, with experience in managing public health crises.

PAHO works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of their populations. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health organisation. It serves as WHO’s Regional Office for the Americas and is the specialised health agency of the Inter-American system.

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Economic boon for Pomeroon community as…

Indian company to set up US$35M facility

- to process coconut shells into carbon

Mr. Alli Baksh MINISTER within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Alli Baksh, has indicated that an Indian company will soon set up a US$35M facility at Akawini, Lower Pomeroon River, to process coconut shells into carbon.

Addressing farmers at several public meetings on the Essequibo Coast and in the Pomeroon area last week, Minister Baksh said the project will take about two years to come on stream.

He said coconut shells are in abundance in the Pomeroon area, and they would be processed into carbon and used in the country’s mining industry, especially in the interior.

Minister Baksh also an-

nounced that, very shortly, the Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, will set up a facility at Anna Regina to process rice crisps. He said the $75M project will add value to rice and will create jobs for some 75 persons.

Farmers have expressed immense pleasure and happiness that the Government is pushing to set up more facilities to process the abundance of raw materials in the country, and add value to products, especially rice, although the parliamentary political parties in opposition are bent on stopping development. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

Aries ones that grab your interest. Dreams of romance might haunt you, too, with a few fantasies that may not be easily dismissed. Romance could be all consuming, with a tendency to be possessive, too. If you fall for someone in the days ahead, you could get involved in an intense and passionate tryst. The weekend brings plenty of opportunities for good times.

Taurus Relationships bring opportunities for fun and delight, with a chance to enhance your long-term bond or make a date with someone new. With Venus in Scorpio, you might relish a chance to enjoy a passionate liaison. Mercury’s forward motion in Libra could bring more positive news on the job front, making it easier to forge ahead without being subject to delays or interruptions. Halloween and the weekend look like sizzling fun, with plenty of laughs and good times all around.

Gemini You may have a fresh vision of what you hope to achieve regarding your job, lifestyle, and career. The power of your imagination may come into its own, especially if you can regularly visualise your success.

Early in the week you might find that you can get ahead by listening to your intuition and scouring your dreams for clues. The midweek Quarter Moon encourages you to take a chance on a bold idea. Finally, Halloween and the weekend should be fun!

Cancer Romantic dreams and creative plans may fill your head this week, giving you plenty of options for enjoying life and connecting with your more playful side. A love affair could be more intense, passionate, and nurturing than you thought. However, you’ll also benefit from putting thoughts and ideas out there, whether you use paint, music, or crafts. Relationships could get stirred up, which might help clear the air if feelings have been politely repressed.

Leo There could be fun, games, and a big Halloween party at your place, since it looks like you’ll be doing all the arranging. The focus certainly seems to be on home and family matters this week, which might also coincide with a concerted effort to get your place looking great. You might feel very motivated to get into shape - and enhance your looks while you’re at it. Mars in Capricorn could give you the necessary discipline to meet all your wellness targets.

Virgo You may be feeling idealistic and compassionate early in the week. Links with Neptune hint that you’ll be ready to sacrifice your time and energy to help another, but don’t go overboard, especially as you can make big strides with your own projects. If you’re planning a Halloween extravaganza, you’ll be in your element, and you could meet someone special at your bash. Passion may flare up over the weekend, when the romantic potential sizzles.

Libra If a new job you see advertised calls out to you, consider applying, even if you don’t have all the qualifications. There’s a chance that you could have other talents, particularly people skills, that would more than make up for a lack of training. A focus on home and family affairs hints that you may be busy arranging a Halloween bash at your place. The lineup looks set for a ghostly fun time.

Scorpio Is it love or something else? As Venus aligns with Neptune early in the week, you might be uncertain about what you feel for someone. Perhaps it’s time to find out! In addition, the Quarter Moon suggests that you’ll need to find a way to please yourself and family members - no easy feat!

Halloween looks made for you, with the kind of fun that suits your dark sense of humour. You may also discover someone saucy has the hots for you!

Sagittarius The Sun/Neptune trine suggests that you may feel like retreating from the world and doing your own thing. Monday is an especially good time to meditate, indulge creative urges, and connect with your needs and heartfelt desires. You’ll be ready to enjoy some Halloween fun on Friday and the weekend.

There’s a chance that a conversation could inspire you to start on a meaningful goal or plan. You may also find ways to earn more money, but you could spend more, too.

Capricorn While there’s fun to be had this week, you’ll also be sensitive to family or friends who need a helping hand. You may even go out of your way to ensure that they get what they require. There’s also potential for a tender romance to blossom, as feelings can no longer be held back. Mars in your sign is good news. You’ll have greater incentive to get things done, particularly meeting any deadlines that are hanging over you.

Aquarius Your desire to get ahead may increase, especially if you have a plan that engages your imagination. To make the most progress, it might help to first discuss your idea with someone who is very practical.

But if the idea really grabs you, just starting can draw all kinds of positive forces to your aid. Although you might enjoy Halloween, it seems you’ll take it with a grain of salt, especially if you have romance on your mind.

Pisces You could be smitten by someone who has tales to tell of faraway places and makes you laugh, too.

This week’s lineup brings an opportunity to connect with a significant other you feel really comfortable with. Feelings between you may be passionate, and right now you’d enjoy being swept up in a wave of intensity. With your social life in full swing, you might relish attending a grownup Halloween party, with fancy dress and plenty of games.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 4, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

Racing Tips South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:20 hrs Golden Boy 08:55 hrs Shadow Of His Smile 09:35 hrs Whatalady 10:15 hrs Unparreled 10:50 hrs Hawaiian Sun 11:25 hrs Masachusetts French Racing Tips Maisons-Laffitte 08:15 hrs Night Of Light 08:50 hrs Fred Lalloupet 09:20 hrs Shamal 09:50 hrs Catcall 10:20 hrs King David 10:55 hrs Risada English Racing Tips

Redcar 08:30 hrs Lewis Valentine 09:00 hrs Ershaadaat 09:30 hrs Kimbali 10:00 hrs Breakable 10:30 hrs Karaka Jack 11:00 hrs Irondale Express 11:30 hrs Jan Smuts 12:00 hrs Ecliptic Sunrise Southwell 08:40 hrs Llandanwg 09:10 hrs Uncle Brit 09:40 hrs Spitfire 10:10 hrs Penelope Pitstop 10:40 hrs Crosse Fire 11:10 hrs Cousin Khee 11:40 hrs Reve De Nuit 12:10 hrs Extreme Supreme Exeter 09:15 hrs Thomas Brown 09:45 hrs Jollyallan 10:15 hrs Balder Success 10:45 hrs Carraig Mor 11:15 hrs Gas Line Boy 11:45 hrs Royal Native 12:15 hrs Tashkaldou

Irish Racing Tips Fairyhouse 08:55 hrs Sheamus 09:25 hrs Marys Choice 09:55 hrs Lindas Choice 10:25 hrs Forjoethepainter 10:55 hrs The Tullow Tank 11:25 hrs Kilmurry Kid 11:55 hrs King nLeon American Racing Tips Philadelphia Park Race 1 Any Cat in a Storm Race 2 Queen Bee Teresa Race 3 Vaulted Heart Race 4 Golden Doc Race 5 Struth Race 6 Succesful Brothers Race 7 Sidisinforthree Race 8 Up All Night

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

Former national footballer laid to rest TORONTO, Canada – There was an outpouring of grief at the Ogden Funeral Home and at Bing’s Tower here last Saturday, following the celebration of the life of the late Cecil ‘Cubby’ Hinckson who passed away here last Monday following a prolonged illness.

Hinckson, who reportedly represented Guyana at soccer during the late 60s-early 70s, died at the age 76. In a moving and tearful eulogy, Hinckson’s daughter Raynette Braithwaite described her late father as a honest man who stood for what he believed in.

Braithwaite told the audience which included several of Hinckson’s dominoes colleagues that she had grown accustomed to hearing her father being the first person to call her on her birthday and she was saddened by the fact that he passed away two days after she celebrated the occasion this year.

She disclosed how she missed the call but has the recording (message) which

Cecil Hinckson in his younger days she will treasure for the rest of her life.

Acknowledging that her father was very argumentative, Braithwaite said his main attributes were strength and determination, a belief also alluded to by officiating pastor Rev. Jeune Sinclair-Johnson.

Sinclair-Johnson urged everyone present to follow in the footsteps of Hinckson who she said had lived a

full life and had made his “peace with God.” Scripture readings were done by Tanisha Braithwaite and Eola McBean while Marcella John rendered a solo.

Hinckson, who was born in Guyana on July 10, 1938 to Amy Hinckson and Samuel Braithwaite, migrated to Canada in 1987. He attended St Ambrose Primary School, Georgetown and later worked at the Guyana National Engineering Corporation (GNEC).

A staunch member of the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU), Hinckson was a prominent dominoes player at the club.

He also played football and cricket.

Hinckson is survived by his wife Dion, daughters Denise and Raynette, grandchildren Tanisha and Tyesha, four great grandchildren Trendus, Tayah, Myla and Cee, brother Edward among others.

A wake and a postfuneral reception were held at Bing’s Tower where the late Hinckson and family resided. (Frederick Halley)

Hikers lift GT&T ...

From Back Page

In the game that mattered – GCC took the lead from a penalty corner off the stick of Eric Hing – his first of three.

In the 17th minute – Old Fort found the equalizer though Omar Hopkinson; 1-1 at the half.

On the resumption, on 25 minutes Hing re-establised the lead for GCC. Four minutes later … extended the advantage.

Tony Cole brought Old Fort back into the game in the 33 rd minute, but Hing would sink a stake in the heart of the Forts a minute later 4-2 and in the final minute Steven Xavier for good measure – gave GCC a 5-2 scoreline.

GCC Vets would add another title to their collection, routing Old Fort 7-3 in their final.

Two quick goals from GCC’s Philip Fernandes (2nd and 9th) put the pressure on Old Fort and sent a message that they were out to win. In the 11th Old Fort recorded their first goal from Dexter Wyles On 14th minutes Devin Hooper scored for GCC – a field goal and in the 19 th minute from a penalty corner it was Hooper again 4-1 the lead at half time.

Old Fort resurged in the 2nd half, scored in the 24th minute to reduce the deficit 2-4 through Dwayne Allen, but Philip would have none of it and in the 26th – his third and the fifth for the

team – GCC were in firm control. Hooper followed suit for his hat trick as well in the 29th minute with Tricia Fiedtkou – the lone female veteran on the GCC team, putting the cherry on top – 7 -2 with eight minutes to play.

Wyles would double up for Old Fort’s third of the night.

In the female final – GCC Tigers met with Spice team mates. When GCC meets GCC, goals dried up. Both teams trampled their opponents in the preliminary games.

Tigers would however draw first blood, Tiffany Solomon’s goal the only one in the 20 minutes.

In the 2 nd half, as both tried to get the upper hand on the other – Sonia Jardine equalized for Spice on 27 minutes. It was a solo effort as she guided the ball down the right flank and sent it home from a difficult angle.

A penalty corner in the 34th saw Tigers inflicting their 2nd scar – KerensaFernandes the scorer; 2-1.

It would be a score line the Tigers battled hard to maintain and they were tested. With three minutes to play and six penalty corners to Spice – Tigers defended every one; 2-1 it ended when the whistle was blown.

CRICKETQUIZ CORNER

(Tuesday November 04, 2014)

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to Sunday’s quiz: (1) 675 Tests (2)24 Today’s Quiz: (1) How many times Brian Lara captained the WI in ODIs? (2)Which two scored only one ODI century each?

Sherwin Campbell; Runako Morton; Phil Simmons; Dwayne Bravo; Stuart Williams Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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Pakistan spank sorry Aussies by 356 runs for 2-0 series win .. Younus Khan named man-of-the-series

(REUTERS) - A defiant Steve Smith tried to delay the inevitable before Pakistan crushed Australia by 356 runs in the second and final Test to complete a 2-0 series victory in Abu Dhabi yesterday.

Having set the visitors an improbable 603-run victory target, Pakistan claimed the remaining six wickets in a little over a session on the final day to secure their first Test series victory against Australia in 20 years.

The win also saw them leapfrog England, Sri Lanka and India to rise to number three in Test rankings, behind South Africa and Australia.

Smith (97) added 107 runs with Mitchell Marsh in a rare display of Australian resistance in the two-match series before his postlunch dismissal triggered a collapse with the visitors losing their last five wickets for only eight runs to be all out for 246.

“I think Misbah-ulHaq and his team played some outstanding cricket in both Test matches and we’ve certainly been outplayed,” Australia

captain Michael Clarke said at the presentation ceremony.

was adjudged man-of-thematch for his twin centuries in the match, the second

in their team mates.

LEG-SLIP TRAP

Pakistan players pose with the trophy after completing a 2-0 whitewash of Australia in Abu Dhabi, yesterday.

“In all three facets - of which equalled Viv Marsh, playing only batting, bowling and fielding Richards’ record for the his second Test, proved the - we probably let ourselves fastest Test century in 56 perfect foil for Smith, whose down. We were not good balls. decisive footwork against enough against the very good Run-machine Younus the spinners and positive and experienced Pakistan Khan, who hit two centuries intent stood out in an team.” and a double hundred in otherwise Australian batting Zulfiqar Babar (5-120) his four innings, was the capitulation. and Yasir Shah (3-44) once obvious choice for the manMarsh was looking set again laid bare Australia’s of-the-series award. for his second fifty of the spin frailties even though Resuming on 143- match when the 23-yearPakistan were without their 4, Smith and Marsh (47) old walked into a leg-slip main spinner Saeed Ajmal frustrated the Pakistani trap, flicking off-spinner who has been banned for an bowlers with a century Mohammad Hafeez straight illegal action. stand, showing the stomach into the hands of Asad Pakistan captain Misbah for fight which was missing Shafiq.

Scoreboard

PAKISTAN 1st innings 570 for 6 decl. (Y. Khan 213, A. Ali 109, Misbah-ul-Haq 101) Australia 1st innings 261 (M. Marsh 87) Pakistan 2nd innings 293 for 3 decl. (Misbah-ul-Haq 101 not out, A. Ali 100 not out) AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (o/n: 143-4; Target: 603 runs) C. Rogers c Shafiq b Babar 2 D. Warner c Shah b Hafeez 58 G. Maxwell lbw b Babar 4 M. Clarke b Babar 5 S. Smith lbw b Shah 97 M. Marsh c Shafiq b Hafeez 47 B. Haddin b Babar 13 M. Johnson b Shah 0 P. Siddle not out 4 M. Starc b Shah 2 N. Lyon c Az. Ali b Babar 0 Extras: (b-5, lb-1, nb-3, pen-5) 14 Total: (all out, 88.3 overs) 246 Fall of wickets: 1-19, 2-31, 3-43, 4-101, 5-208. 6-238, 7-238, 8-238, 9-245.

Bowling: R. Ali 8-6-3-0, I. Khan 8-1-29-0, M. Hafeez 17-4-38-2, Z. Babar 32.3-2-120-5 (nb-1), Y. Shah 224-44-3 (nb-2) Smith hit Babar for successive boundaries to bring up his eighth Test halfcentury and meted out the same treatment to the spinner in the final over before lunch to cruise into the 90s.

Yasir denied the 25-yearold Smith his fifth Test century, trapping him legbefore with the second delivery after lunch, which opened the floodgates and Australia collapsed in a heap.

“It’s a really special series for me, because every individual performed,” said Misbah. “That’s a sign of a good team and I’m really happy.”

Smith hit 12 fours in his

Bangladesh make steady start in second Test PATIENT Bangladesh closed the first day of their second Test against Zimbabwe on 193 for three in Khulna.

Tamim Iqbal took his new restrained approach to its extreme, batting through the day for 74 not out and putting on 95 for the third wicket with Mahmudullah (56).

Tinashe Panyangara was the pick of the Zimbabwe attack with two for 29.

Tamim’s Test strike rate prior to 2013 was 60.90 runs per 100 balls, a figure which has dropped to 42.38 in 19 innings since then.

And with Bangladesh having been nought for three before chasing down 101 to win the first Test by three wickets, he was clearly keen to avoid a repeat this time around.

He scored just two runs off the first 25 balls he faced and his

first boundary came in the ninth over - by which point he had

through cover for four but was only 27 not out at lunch, with

Tamim Iqbal bats through the day for 74 not out. lost opening partner Shamsur Rahman for two.

He drove Elton Chigumbura

Mominul Haque on 26 in a total of 62 for one.

Tamim survived an lbw

review off Chigumbura on 28 but had a close view of Panyangara’s wonderful catch off his own bowling to dismiss Mominul for 35, off 101 balls with five fours though he had been spared on 28 when Zimbabwe failed to review an lbw which would have been given by DRS. The opener’s half-century came up off 169 balls with a legside single off Natsai M’shangwe as tea was taken on 127 for two.

He cut Chigumbura for four but was dropped by keeper Regis Chakabva when he offered a difficult chance off Malcolm Waller.

Tamim had found another reliable ally in Mahmudullah and their partnership reached 50 in the fourth over after tea, with the first runs since the interval.

The total moved to 150 in the 76th over and Mahmudullah’s

204-ball knock that proved there were no real demons in the dry and dusty pitch at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

Comprehensively beaten in the first Test in Dubai, nothing went right for Australia in the second Test either.

Not a single Australian managed a century in the Test while Misbah and Azhar Ali got hundreds in both innings and Younus struck 213 in the first innings.

Australia’s bowling limitations were also exposed as they could not bowl out their opponents even once, managing nine wickets in the match bleeding 863 runs.

Scoreboard

BANGLADESH 1st innings T. Iqbal not out 74 Sh. lbw b Chigumbura 2 M. Haque c & b Panyangara 35 M. Mahmudullah lbw b Panyangara 56 S. Al Hasan not out 13 Extras: (b-4, lb-5, nb-2, w-2) 13 Total: (for 3 wickets, 90 overs) 193 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-78, 3-173.

Bowling: T. Panyangara 19-5-29-2 (nb-1), E. Chigumbura 16-5-32-1 (w2), T. Chatara 15-3-30-0 (nb-1), N. M’shangwe 24-4-60-0, M. Waller 9-122-0, S. Raza 7-2-11-0. half-century came up from 140 balls after boundaries in successive overs off Sikandar Raza and Waller.

The partnership was closing on 100 when the new ball was taken and Panyangara struck with the fourth delivery, trapping Mahmudullah lbw with a sharp inswinger.

That was the last breakthrough of the day, with Tamim and Shakib al Hasan (13 not out) adding an unbroken 20 by the close. The former had faced 250 balls and hit only six boundaries. (PA Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

Braithwaite, Persaud take lead at National Fullbore championships REIGNING West Indies fullbore individual shooting champion Lennox Braithwaite showed ominous form in taking day one honours in ‘X’ Class at the Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) National Senior and Junior Fullbore shooting championships at the Timehri Rifle and Pistol ranges.

Braithwaite dropped just one point in testing conditions to be four points clear of his closest rival while Peter Persaud held a slim lead over Lt. Col (retired) Terrence Stuart in ‘O’ Class.

The in-form Braithwaite shot two possibles (50 points with six V-bulls each at 500 and 600 yards) and recorded 49.6 at 300 yards to end the day with an aggregate

X-Class Name 300Yards 500Yards 600Yards Lennox 49.6 50.6 50.6 149.18 Dylan Fields 47.4 50.4 48.4 Ransford Goodluck 48.1 48.5 49.5 Mahendra Persaud 47.3 49.4 49.1 Leo Ramalho 46.2 49.4 48.5 O-Class Peter Persaud Terrence Stuart Sherwin Felicien Dane Blair Chaflin Velloza Colin Loncke

Peter Persaud

45.2 45.2 46.3 46.3 36.2 16.0

48.4 48.3 50.3 46.4 46.4 46.4 42.1 42.1 44.0 36.1 40.0 42.1

of 149 points with 18 V-bulls. He also won the prestigious Valladares Trophy for winning at the 500 yards range.

National vice-captain Dylan Fields was in second position with 145 points and 12 V-bulls with scores of 47.4 at 300 yards, 50.4 at 500 yards and 48.4 at 600 yards.

Defending champion Ransford Goodluck held the third position with 145 points with 11 bulls with scores of 48.1, 48.5 and 49.5 while National captain Mahendra Persaud was fourth with 145.8

Lennox Braithwaite

Total 145.12 145.11 145.8 143.11 141.9 141.9 138.10 130.7 116.3 98.1

(47.3, 49.4, 49.1) and Leo Romalho fifth with 143.11 (46.2, 49.4 and 48.5).

The ‘O’ Class proved to be intriguing with Persaud leading Stuart on a count-back as the two shooters were tied on points and bulls but Persaud nipped ahead with a higher score at the 600 yards range.

Persaud shot 45.2, 48.4 and 48.3 to end on 141.9 with Stuart recording 45.2, 50.3 and 46.4 for an overall aggregate of 141.9.

Sherwin Felicien held the third position with 138.10.

Anthony reaches T&T players involved in milestone in Knicks contracts dispute free to play win over Hornets

Carmelo Anthony becomes the 40th player in NBA history to score 20 000 points.

NEW YORK, NY (AFP) - Carmelo Anthony became the 40th player in National Basketball Association (NBA) history to score 20 000 points, leading the New York Knicks to a 96-93 win over Charlotte on Sunday..

Anthony finished with 28 points and hit the eventual gamewinner for New York, who have won two straight since a 24-point loss to Chicago in their season opener. He entered the contest just three points shy of the 20 000 plateau.

Amar’e Stoudemire finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds off the bench and Iman Shumpert added 15 points in the win.

Al Jefferson led Charlotte with 21 points, while Kemba Walker scored 16 points and Lance Stephenson flirted with a triple-double with 14 points, nine rebounds and eight assists.

Anthony opened the contest with a jump shot and then made history as the sixth-youngest player to reach 20 000 points with a three-pointer minutes later.

Anthony’s three-pointer was a part of a 15-5 surge to open the game for the Knicks. New York’s lead was as high as 12 in the quarter before Charlotte trimmed the deficit to 29-21 heading into the second.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Trinidad and Tobago’s cricket authorities have assured that their national players involved in the abandoned tour of India, will not face censure and will be considered for selection in the upcoming regional first class season.

Azim Bassarath, president of the T&T Cricket Board, confirmed to the Trinidad Express newspaper that his board would not get involved in the selection process and would leave the matter of who represented the country up to the selectors.

“The selectors will decide who will play for Trinidad and Tobago.

Nobody is going to interfere with the selection process,” Bassarath explained.

“The policy of the board is not to direct selectors in terms of who they should select and so on. That has never been done in the past and I am

Dwayne Bravo guaranteeing that it will never happen under my stewardship. They selectors can select them if they see fit.”

Two key Trinidad and Tobago players were among the 15-man Windies squad that quit the India

tour over a contracts row with the West Indies Players Association.

All-rounder Dwayne Bravo, the one-day captain emerged as the players’ spokesman while Test captain Denesh Ramdin was also part of the unit.

The TTCB came out in strong censure of the players’ actions, moving a motion at board level which publicly condemned the decision to abandon the tour.

However, Bassarath said this would not impact the players involvement in Trinidad cricket.

“The board members, the people who were there when the motion was moved, they had an opinion that it was a disgrace to abandon the tour and somebody moved a motion and it was approved,” he said.

“The players have not done the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board anything.”

No date change for African Nations Cup: CAF (REUTERS) - The dates for next year’s African Nations Cup will not change and Morocco have until the end of the week to confirm they will go ahead with hosting the tournament, the Confederation of African Football said yesterday.

CAF said it was sticking to its plans to host the 16-team tournament from January 17 to February 8 next year despite Morocco seeking a postponement

because of fears over the Ebola virus.

CAF said it would consider other possible host countries and take a further decision next week when the executive committee meets in Cairo.

The CAF statement followed a meeting between CAF president Issa Hayatou and the Moroccan government in Rabat yesterday.

(Reporting by mark Gleeson, editing by martyn herman

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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GFSCA ‘GUYANA SOFTBALL CUP IV’

Adams shines as Wolf Warriors claim Open title … Floodlights XI are Masters champions

By Calvin Roberts INDEBTED to an unbeaten half-century from opener Ricardo Adams along with innocuous shot selection from a few Regal XI players, Wolf Warriors came away trumps with the top prize when the curtain came down on this year’s Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) ‘Guyana Cup 4’ last Sunday night at the Demerara Cricket Club ground.

In the Masters category, Floodlights XI were too good for Savage Masters, defeating them by 27 runs thanks to Man-of-the-Match and Man-of-the-Series Younis Yusuf’s halfcentury which led them to 180 for 6. Savage Masters were limited to 153 for 8 in reply.

In the Open final, Regal XI, as they had done throughout the tournament won the toss and without hesitation inserted Wolf Warriors who had lost to Trophy Stall by nine wickets in last year’s final, to take first strike, following which Adams and his skipper Amit Rai added 78 for the first wicket.

Following the demise of Rai for 31 (4x4), Adams was joined by the hard-hitting Safraz Karim 37 4x6) with whom he added an additional 48 for the second wicket, setting the foundation for Wolf Warriors to post 166 for 6 off their 20 overs, with Adams hitting an unbeaten 53 (3x4, 1x6).

Fazal Rafeek and Sewchand Budhu took 2 wickets each for 39 and 42 runs respectively for Regal XI, who in their turn at the wicket, were coasting at 87 for 2 in the 11th over, when the lights on four of the six pillions went out, causing a 20-minute delay in the action.

When the action resumed, Chien Gittens struck the final ball of the over bowled by Vishnu Tamenchandra, over midwicket for six, before he was caught at the wicket by Rai off Azim Nizamudin, who watched as Regal XI skipper Richard Latiff was bowled first ball by Narine Bailey without scoring, as he

GFSCA president Ramchand Ragbeer (extreme left) poses with the victorious Wolf Warriors after they collected their cheque for $800 000 and the winners’ trophy. (Photos by Adrian Narine)

We are the champions! Members of Floodlights XI are delighted after collecting their top prize last Sunday night, following their win in the GFSCA ‘Guyana Cup 4’.

looked to sweep, leaving his side precariously placed on 119 for 5.

Despite some hitting from Patrick Rooplall (30), Safraz Esau (18) and an unbeaten 17 from Rafiek, Regal XI failed to overhaul their target of 167, and were bowled out for 163 with one ball to go in the final over, as Bailey, Nizamudin and Tamenchandra took 2 wickets each for Wolf Warriors.

In the Masters category, Floodlights XI were asked to bat first and, led by Yusuf’s 62 (4x6, 3x4), 45 (4x6, 1x4) from Imtiaz Mohammed and 27 (2x4, 1x6) from Wayne Jones, scored 180 for 6 off their 20 overs, with R. Samaroo taking 3 for 30 for Savage Masters.

Even though R. Camacho struck four fours and two sixes in his 64 and N. Baksh had a similar number of sixes but one four in his 24, Savage Masters struggled against the bowling of Yusuf who took 2 for 25 and R. Singh 2 for 35 and were limited to 153 for 8.

For their win, Wolf Warriors took home $800 000 and a trophy along with an extra $200 000 that was given to them with the compliments of Zaheeda Hack, Yusuf was named Man-of-the-Series in the Masters category and Lennox Marks of Farm XI, the Man-of-the-Series in the Open category for which they both received a 14-carat diamondstudded gold band.

The female exhibition contest was awarded to defending champions Trophy Stall Angels, who were engaging Mike’s Wellwoman in the final after they both defeated Karibee Rice Strikers and 4R Lioness in their respective semifinal matches and had the final interrupted for reasons unknown.

Other individual trophies went to Yusuf, Jagdesh Persaud and Marks for their individual centuries while Tamenchandra, Amit Moonsammy and Rohit Dutchin were rewarded for their five-wicket hauls.

Second practice match bowls off from today … Reifer arrives and gelling with team

By Calvin Roberts ACCORDING to chairman of selectors within Cricket Guy Inc. Rayon Griffith, improvements within the physical aspect of the players currently undergoing preparations for the inaugural West Indies Cricket Board Professional Cricket League which bowls off next weekend, are going great.

Griffith, a former national fast bowler told Chronicle Sport in an invited comment yesterday that Barbados all-rounder Raymond Reifer, who is the lone foreign player in the Guyana Jaguars lineup, arrived in the country last

Saturday and is gelling well with the players.

“I am not surprised that he is getting along fine with the players, since they would have shared a relationship whenever Guyana and Barbados would have played in previous tournaments,” said Griffith after another intense physical fitness session with the players.

Rain over the past two days prevented the management team from doing cricket-related work on the field but with the availability of the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence indoor facility at LBI, the players underwent more rigorous core and physical fitness sessions under the eyes of Griffith, Esaun

Crandon and his assistants Michael Franco-Hyles, Albert Smith and Clive Grimmond.

“For the past two days, our plans were affected by rain, something we have no control over. However, we used the indoor facility to do more core work, while coaches Hyles and Smith also passed on some knowledge of the game to the players as it relates to classroom exercise,” said Griffith.

Quizzed on the importance of classroom exercises at a time when an important competition is around the corner, Griffith said, “We feel that after the 2006 Stanford Championship winning team, a fresh breed of

Members of the training squad undergo a stretching exercise at the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence indoor facility at LBI yesterday. players were introduced to Guyana’s cricket, before the older folks were able to pass on their knowledge, so we thought it wise to introduce classroom exercises in our preparations.

“You may be puzzled at this, but the

players are all eager to learn both on and off the field and with those two fine gentlemen in Albert Smith and Michael Franco-Hyles willing to impart their knowledge, pros and cons of the game to their young minds, the sessions are healthy and positive.”

He said the executives within Cricket Guy Inc. are throwing their full and unwavering support behind the plans and preparations for the team and as it stands now, with a btt more work on some players in the fitness area, the Guyana Jaguars will certainly be a force to be reckoned with when the action bowls off next Friday.

Meanwhile, the second and final practice match will be held from today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, and will run until Friday, with Singh’s XI who won the first game by scoring 336 for 8 when given a second-innings target of 334, to record a come-fro-behind victory.

It is not certain which side Reifer will be on, since Cricket Guy Inc. had not issued a press release as it relates to the two teams for this contest, but listed below is a list of the players and their respective teams for the first practice game.

Sport CHRONICLE

GFSCA ‘GUYANA SOFTBALL CUP IV’

Adams shines as Wolf Warriors claim Open title … Floodlights XI are Masters champions

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

See story on page 27

Hikers lift GT&T First Division Title

…Team GCC claim three divisions

By Leeron Brumell Hikers are the 2014 GT&T Indoor Hockey champions, while team GCC claimed wins in three divisions – Ladies, Veterans and Second Division.

Hikers defeated surprise finalists – the National Under-19s 4-2 in regular time. The four goals for Hikers scored by eventual MVP JamarjAssanah.

Assanah’s first item came after 13 minutes of play – he took a pass, drew keeper out and slotted home to break the ice.

Three minutes later he got past one defender and the goalie for a 2-nil advantage. The score remained unchanged at the half.

Hikers continued to run plays, shutting down the Juniors in the process. The pace of this game was slower than their preliminary match-up on Friday night when Hikers won 6-4.

A third goal for the Hikers came in the 30th minute of play when Devin Munroe and Assanah broke through the defense; Munroe found Assanah on the left side and his accurate pass was converted.

Try at the may the U-19s could not get through the Hikers wall.

Asserting their dominance, the Junior could not convert a penalty corner in the 33rd minute and on the rebound, Assanah turned with the ball, sprinted down court and with he and the goalie face to face, the question would be not if he’ll score, but where he’ll place the yellow and black ball; 4-Nil to Hikers.

With time winding down – the U-19s would finally register a goal in the 36th minute – a penalty called on Assanah.

Aroydy Branford sent the ball past the Hikers custodian Jason Hoyte.

Two minutes later – Brandford reduced the deficit 2-4, but it would end that way with Hikers lifting the crown.

In the 2nd division final – GCC came away victors over Old Fort. Old Fort had beaten them two nights earlier 3-2.

Turn To Page 24

HIKERS COLLECT – The New GT&T Indoor Champs Hikers are presented with their Championship trophy by Public Relations Officer Allison Parker.

XAVIER AIRBOURNE: Steven Xavier goes prone as he sends a shot on goal.

(Photos by LeeronBrumell)

Stag Beer Futsal

Alpha seek second win tonight Ronson Williams

GUYANA’S number one football club Alpha United will this evening seek to register their second win when the Stag Beer Futsal championship continues at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Alpha United trampled Beacon 4-1 in their opening game on Saturday and now turn attention to Renaissance.

National goalkeeper Ronson Williams, who scored one goal, played a pivotal role in Alpha’s victory.

Alpha’s match this evening would be the first

of eight scheduled for the venue.

In game number two, Houston Stars face Santos. Police tackle Black Water and GFC clash with Northern Rangers in two other fixtures.

Other matches include Western Tigers versus Black Pearl, Beacon versus GDF, Riddim Squad play Pele and Flamingo tackle Fruta Conquerors.

At Saturday’s opening, Fruta Conquerors raced to a 4-0 lead at halftime and ended up whipping Black Pearl 7-1 at regulation

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time. Western Tigers humbled Flamingo 4-0 to underline their position as one of the favourites for the $400 000 first prize.

In other games on Saturday, Pele brushed aside Northern Rangers 5-0, Riddim Squad trounced GFC 6-0 and Santos beat Black Water 5-1.

The competition is being sponsored by Ansa McAl, Elaine Ville and Hits and Jams.

It concludes on November 22. Tonight’s first game kicks off at 19:00hrs.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2014

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