Guyana chronicle 19 07 14

GUYANA No. 103893

SATURDAY JULY 19, 2014

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

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In response to AFC’s proposed no confidence motion…

President Ramotar says PPP/C is prepared to face consequences of such a motion Page

Portrait in honour of Nelson Mandela unveiled Page

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President Donald Ramotar

Select Committee still to agree 8 to meet on AML/CFT Bill Page

GRA’s LEID officials come under 11 heavy gun fire Page

- as large quantity of smuggled chicken seized

Guyanese Sculptor, Ivor Thom (left), Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn (second from left) and in the back row Registrar of University of Guyana, Vincent Alexander (left) and Artist, Tammy Walker along with students of the summer programme unveiling the portrait of Nelson Mandela at the Museum of African Heritage (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

Collapsed house fatally crushes 11 mentally-ill man Page

Produce Page 8 the evidence of fraud – CJIA Board tells AFC

Crane woman found dead 9 in her home Page

Dead Candy Rawlins

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

In response to AFC’s proposed no confidence motion…

President Ramotar says PPP/C is prepared to face consequences of such a motion PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar in his response to the letter from the Alliance For Change (AFC) indicating their intention to move a no confidence motion against the Government has reiterated that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic is prepared to face the consequences of a such a motion and the electorate.

“As I have said publicly before, the PPP/C and I are prepared to face the consequences of such a motion and the electorate.”

“It will give us the opportunity to demand that the AFC explains to the Guyanese people their denial of them having cheap energy by opposing the Hydro Power Station at Amaila. In so doing, you have opposed the industrialisation of our country and the creation of decent jobs for our people, particularly our young people.”

“You will have a chance to explain why you have voted against giving the Guyanese people better health care due to your opposition to a specialty hospital.

Moreover, you will clarify for the electorate whether it was because your client lost out in the bidding process to construct the complex.”

“It will be a good occasion for you to explain to the people if your opposition to the construcPresident tion of a Marriot Hotel Donald Ramotar was rooted in the fact that your chief financier is also in the hotel business,” the President stated in his reply to the AFC’s letter.

The President also lashed out at the AFC for opposing

the Anti-Money Laundering Bill (AML/CTF), budgetary cuts affecting development in the in the indigenous communities and partnering with A People’s Partnership for National Unity (APNU calling for the closure of the sugar industry).

He added:”…I reiterate that I will never stand in the way of any person or political party seeking to execute any constitutional right, power or freedom which they enjoy.”

THE Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, yesterday, in a letter made clear to President Donald Ramotar, his party’s consideration of moving a no-confidence motion against the current administration.

In the letter, Ramjattan said: “I am aware that Article 106(6) of our Constitution provides an option (of moving a no-confidence motion) that is currently being discussed nationwide i.e. the forced resignation of the Cabinet including the President following a defeat in the National

“It will give us the opportunity to demand that the AFC explains to the Guyanese people their denial of them having cheap energy by opposing the Hydro Power Station at Amaila. In so doing, you have opposed the industrialisation of our country and the creation of decent jobs for our people, particularly our young people.”

Assembly on a vote of no-confidence.

“In the light of what has occurred, I wish to formally clarify that my Party has indeed been actively considering this option and currently is of the view that the options for lawful and constitutional alternatives have rapidly decreased.

“Our Party sees no other alternative than to proceed with this constitutional mechanism for removal of an unpopular Government that has ceased to enjoy the confidence of the National Assembly and who by its actions has demonstrated an unlawful and contemptuous disregard for the Supreme Law of the Country.”

NO AGREEMENT The AFC Leader’s letter was copied to Opposition Leader, Brigadier (rtd.) David Granger, but attempts by the Guyana Chronicle to contact him for a comment proved futile.

However, at A Partnership for National Unity’s

(APNU) weekly press conference yesterday Granger did address the issue.

He said the party has not agreed with the AFC on the no-confidence motion and the party is examining the ruling party’s administration of state affairs. “It is not something we are going to jump into,” the Opposition Leader said.

The AFC consideration of moving a no-confidence motion was first made public by its member, Mr. Moses Nagamootoo, who explained that the move was premised on what the party considered “unauthorised and unconstitutional” withdrawals made from our nation’s Consolidated Fund by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh.

“We cannot condone, participate in, or lend any support to such a serious breach of the Constitution and laws of Guyana; and we find it necessary in the light of the clear and present danger to the Constitution and the rule of law to explore all options necessary for safeguarding the public purse against further lawless spending,” Ramjattan said on the matter.

C O N S O L I D AT E D AND CONTINGENCIES FUND Dr. Ashni Singh Dr. Singh has since made clear the legality in his actions on several occasions. At his last press briefing, he explained the different mechanisms he has employed in the authorisation of spending.

The Minister of Finance pointed out that the use of the Contingency Fund has to meet different criteria than that of the Consolidated Fund.

Article 220 (1) and (2) of the Constitution addresses the establishment and use of the Contingency Fund.

It states that: “(1) Parliament may make provision for the establishment of a Contingencies Fund and for authorising the minister responsible for finance to make advances from that Fund if he is satisfied that there is an urgent need for expenditure for which no other provision exists. “(2) Where any advance is made from the Contingencies Fund a supplementary estimate shall, as soon as practicable, be laid before the National Assembly by the Prime Minister or any other minister designated by the President for the purpose of authorising the replacement of the amount so advanced.”

Also, according to Article 218 (3) of the Constitution, no monies shall be withdrawn from public funds other than the Consolidated Fund. It further states that the issuing of those monies must have been authorised by or under “an Act of Parliament”.

Majority of the spending from the Consolidated Fund is done via the Parliament’s approval of the annual national budgets – the approval being “an Act of Parliament.”

As it relates to the Contingencies Fund, Parliament, in 2003, approved the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act. This Act would be regarded as, “an Act of Parliament” according to Article 218 (3) of the ConSee page 3

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

President Ramotar says PPP/C is prepared ...

From page 2 stitution.

Section 41 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003 defines in part one, under the heading “Schedule”, the definition of a ‘Contingencies Fund advance’. Such an advance refers to “an expenditure out of the Consolidated Fund”, which is made according to Section 41 (3) of the Act. The Contingencies Fund is further defined as a sub-fund established by the Finance Minister, made according to Section 41 (1) of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act. Mentioned in Section 41, the Contingencies Fund is established as a sub-fund of the Consolidated Fund.

Subsection (2) of Section 41 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003, mandates that the Minister of Finance shall have the sole authority for the release of monies from the Contingencies Fund and this authority is not to be delegated to any other authority.

In order to access the Contingencies Fund, the Minister must satisfy that there is an “urgent, unavoidable and unforeseen need for expenditure”, which the monies from the Contingency Fund will be used for. This urgency, according to paragraph (c) of Section 41 (3), would be justified if withholding the money would otherwise result in “injury to the public interest”.

Considering that part one of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003 provided the definition for a ‘Contingencies Fund advance’, Article 41 stipulates that the Minister may approve a Contingencies Fund advance as monies to be spent out of the Consolidated Fund by issuing a drawing right.

Subsection 5 of Section 41 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003 notes that the Minister shall report at the next sitting of the National Assembly on all advances.

STATEMENT OF EXCESS Another important point, the Finance Minister underscored was the use of another instrument for spending, that of the Statements of Excess.

He explained that Statements of Excess does not reflect spending from the Contingency Fund.

Section 218 (3) of the Constitution states that: “If in respect of any financial year it is found: (a) that the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Act for any purpose is insufficient or that a need has arisen for expenditure for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or (b) that any moneys have been expended for any purpose in excess of the amount appropriated for that purpose by the Appropriation Act or for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act, a supplementary estimate or, as the case may be, a statement of excess showing the sums required or spent shall be laid before the Assembly by the Prime Minister or any other Minister designated by the President.”

He also referenced the Parliamentary Standing Order 78 (1), which deals with supplementary estimates of expenditure and statements of excess.

The Order states that: “If in respect of any financial year it is found:- [a] that the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Act for any purpose is insufficient or that a need has arisen for Expenditure for a purpose for which amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or [b] that any monies have been expended for any purpose in excess of the amount appropriated for that purpose by the Appropriation Act or for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by that Act; “Or [c] that advances have been made from the Contingencies Fund for Expenditure for which no other provision exists, a Minister may present a Pa-

“You will have a chance to explain why you have voted against giving the Guyanese people better health care due to your opposition to a specialty hospital. Moreover, you will clarify for the electorate whether it was because your client lost out in the bidding process to construct the complex.”

David Granger

The report must include the amounts paid, whom they were paid to and the impact of the payment.

The Act under Section 41 (6) (b) provides that after the National Assembly has approved of the Contingencies Fund advance or advances, and upon the passing of a supplementary appropriation Act, the amount of the advance or advances shall be added back, in the amount of the total authorised, by the National Assembly under subsection (4) to the Contingencies Fund.

Finally, Section 41 (7) provides that once the National Assembly has approved the advance or advances, the Contingencies Fund shall be replenished to the sum of the amounts approved.

The Finance Minister addressed the fact that the combined Parliamentary Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC), has only approved 92.6 per cent of the spending from the Contingency Fund during the 10th Parliament.

To date, the current 10th Parliament of the National Assembly has considered six Financial Papers related to the use of the Contingencies Fund collectively valued at approximately $9.358B. The Assembly, comprised of the Opposition, has approved 92.6 per cent of those Financial Papers valued at approximately $8.7B clearly demonstrating agreement with the use of the Contingencies Fund in most cases.

Khemraj Ramjattan

per with the Supplementary Estimate or, as the case may be, the Statement of Excess showing the sums required or spent and that Paper shall be ordered to be printed and shall stand referred to the Committee of Supply without question put and shall be appointed to be considered on a day to be named by the Minister presenting the Paper but not earlier than one (1) day after that on which the Paper was presented.”

The Finance Minister maintained his contention that all public spending advanced by the current Administration has been done within the stated legal parameters and can withstand any level of scrutiny.

WILL NOT BE THREATENED The Head of State, Donald Ramotar, when the issue was first raise, made it clear that his Government will not be threatened.

“We do not take threats. If the Opposition wants to pass a no-confidence bill, let them pass it and we will be ready to deal with the consequences of that,” the President has said.

Mr. Ramotar also indicated that his Government is ready to call general elections if such a motion is passed.

“When I say I am going to do it, I am going to do it,” he said.

This is not the first time the President has hinted at the possibility of an early return to the polls, as See page 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Obama condemns Israel steps up Gaza ground offensive, Russia after airliner civilian casualties grow downed in Ukraine

By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Jeffrey Heller

By Anton Zverev

(Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama demanded Russia stop supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine after the downing of a Malaysian airline by a surface-to-air missile he said was fired from rebel territory raised the prospect of more sanctions on Moscow.

At least one American was among the almost 300 killed, he said, a revelation that raises the stakes in a pivotal incident in deteriorating relations between Russia and the West.

Calling it “an outrage of unspeakable proportions”, Obama stopped short of directly blaming Russia for the incident but warned that he was prepared to tighten economic sanctions. He echoed international calls for a rapid and credible investigation and ruling out U.S. military intervention.

But, noting the global impact of the crash, with victims from 11 countries across four continents, he said the stakes were high for Europe, a clear call for it to follow the more robust sanctions on Russia already imposed by Washington.

(Reuters) - Israel warned on Friday it could “sig-

Russia, whom Obama said was letting the rebels bring in weapons, has expressed anger at implications it was to blame, saying people should not prejudge the outcome of the inquiry.

There were no survivors from the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, a Boeing 777.

The United Nations said 80 of the 298 aboard were children. The deadliest attack on a commercial airliner, it scattered bodies over miles of rebel-held territory near the border with Russia.

The Israeli military said it killed 17 Palestinian gunmen while another 13 surrendered and were taken for questioning after

Obama said on Friday he had spoken to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring Washington’s support for Israel to defend

(BBC photo) Gaza City was shaken by explosions as Israeli air strikes continued

nificantly widen” a Gaza land offensive but was cautioned by its main ally, the United States, about the risks of further escalation as Palestinian civilian deaths mounted.

Palestinian officials said 58 Palestinians, at least 15 of them under the age of 18, have been killed since Israel sent ground forces on Thursday into the densely-populated enclave of 1.8 million Palestinians.

(BBC photo) OSCE monitors (right) reach the crash site, escorted by rebels

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the infantry and tank assault began in the Islamist Hamas-dominated territory.

One Israeli soldier was killed in an apparent friendly fire incident, the military said, and several other troops were wounded in the ground operations. It said some 150 targets, including 21 concealed rocket launchers and four tunnels, have been attacked.

U.S. President Barack

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itself but raising concerns about “the risks of further escalation” and additional loss of innocent lives.

“We are hopeful that Israel will continue to approach this process in a way that minimises civilian casualties,” Obama told reporters at the White House.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon planned to travel to the Middle East on Saturday in a bid to end the hostilities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Pope Francis demands justice for Jewish centre attack victims (BBC News)Pope Francis has demanded justice for the victims of a bomb attack against a Jewish centre in Buenos Aires exactly 20 years ago.

In a recorded video to mark the anniversary, the Pope described the attack as an “act of madness”.

Eighty-five people were killed in the attack, which was masterminded by Iran, according to Argentine courts.

Iran denies any involvement.

Last year, Iran and Argentina agreed to set up a truth commission.

Pope Francis said the suf-

fering of the families cannot be forgotten. He was the auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires at the time.

“My prayers for all the victims are accompanied today by my call for justice.

Justice must be done,” he said. y chair at home” Luis Czyzewski Father of Amia attack victim “And may God give peace to all of those who died in this act of madness.”

The video was recorded on the mobile phone of a friend of the Pope and Jewish community leader who went to visit him at the Vatican last

month.

‘Justice, not agreements’ Hundreds of people gathered outside the reconstructed Jewish cultural centre and the Justice Palace building to pray for the victims and demand justice.

The old seven storey-building of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (Amia) in the centre of Buenos Aires was completely destroyed by a car bomb on 18 July 1994.

Two years earlier, a bomb attack against the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires had killed 29 people.

Bolivia law allows ‘self-employed children’ aged 10 to work (BBC News) Bolivia has lowered the legal working age to allow children to work from the age of 10 as long as they also attend school and are self-employed.

The law also permits 12-year-olds to be contracted to work for others. But they need parental authorisation.

Vice-President Alvaro Garcia Linera said the new legislation reflects the needs of Bolivia, one of the poorest countries in South America.

It also sets harsher punishment for violence against

children.

The law sets a sentence of 30 years in jail for child homicide.

The measure, approved

by Congress earlier this month, was signed into law

by Mr Garcia in the absence of President Evo Morales, who was travelling to Brazil.

“President Evo [Morales] intervened to make sure we found a balance between the reality and the law, between rights and international treaties,” added Mr Garcia.

‘Other needs’ More than 500,000 children already work to sup-

plement the family income in Bolivia according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef).

Many work cleaning shoes and selling food in stalls in La Paz and other Bolivian cities. But others face extreme conditions in mines and in agriculture fields.

Mr Morales’s socialist government hopes the law will help eradicate extreme poverty in Bolivia.

The International Labour Organisation says children under the age of 15 should not be allowed to work.

Children’s organisations say most young people who find a job do not want to go back to school

The biggest bomb attack on Argentine soil killed 85 people and injured another 300

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

EDITORIAL

Amar Ramessar Guyanised musical, cultural landscapes THE Great Bard, William Shakespeare, presumed music to be the food of love and adjured humanity to play on – and the family of mankind took heed: In various forms, in every language on earth, using multiple variations in synchronisations and symmetries and the God-given ability to identify musical patterns by ear, as opposed to the reading of notation, which is supposed to form a key part of a musician’s craft and are usually taught alongside music theory.

Most aural skills courses train the perception of relative pitch (the ability to determine pitch in an established context) and rhythm.

Sight-singing – the ability to sing unfamiliar music without assistance – is generally an important component of aural skills courses. Absolute pitch or perfect pitch describes the ability to recognise a particular audio frequency as a given musical note without any prior reference; and Guyanese have a peculiar musical memory – with the ability to remember melodious and melodic compositions, even improvising and improving original configurations, without ever having taken a single, in most instances, lessons in music theory, vocal training, notation and/or even having the ability to read music – or even read at all; but they let the food of love flow through their veins to enrich their souls, and then they pour it out through vocal renditions and/ or musical instruments to uplift the soul of the world.

As Amar Ramessar

and an intrepid team of musical artistes have been doing, using acculturated variances to render to Guyanese audiences a blend of music, with thematic confluences of original Indian compositions, Guyanised versions of “Raaghas and Rhythms” that have mesmerized and held enthralled audiences at the Theatre Guild for two consecutive years in what would indisputably become a calendar event in Guyana.

On July 5 last, in two hours of pure enjoyment of exquisitely rendered vocals and a unique combination of musical accompaniment, producers Amar and Rena Ramessar presented to their audience their second production of “Raaghas and Rhythms” - an evening of melodious enchantment in a setting that transported the Theatre Guild to a magical realm of fantasy.

From humble beginnings in 2009, Amar began to create a space for the preservation and elevation of music; a space where borders and limitations were challenged, where the global perspective of every “Din Din Tak” could be heard.

Thus, the “Indus Voices” was born; rightfully named after the Indus Valley, the historic birthplace of the Indus Civilisation, from which originated the compositions that so freely flowed and interwove with Guyanese talent of a multiplicity of races and cultural backgrounds peculiarly Guyanese that have held two successive audiences spellbound in the Theatre Guild: and the names of the vocal artistes and musicians, as well as the musical instruments reflected the exquisitely-patterned tapestry of Guyana’s cultural diversity to mystically transport an enthralled audience to the abode of the Gods.

This effort was initially furthered with the weekly production of Sangeet Yatra, a 30 minutes television programme that took the audience through a careful range of emotions that came with the well-crafted composition of Ghazals, Qawali, Sufi, Bollywood and live Kathak performances.

In March 2013, the effortless team work of the “Indus Voices” brought their first production, “Raagas N Rhythms” to the Theatre Guild, where a spectacular showcase and exposition of the most popular semi-classical compositions, Ghazals, Bollywood songs, and Qawali graced the ears of those present - skillfully staged and delivered with a wonderful combination of individual star power and collaborative simplicity. This was the ease with which “Raagas N rhythms” was conveyed, suffused with the energy of youth.

After celebrating a new milestone, the team was afforded another opportunity to create another testing and ultimately satisfying programme on 5th July this year, this time crossing territorial boundaries and a time zone in Saint Laurent, French Guyana.

The invitation put into sharp focus the need for further expansion, and so the “Indus Dance Worqs” was introduced, with dancers from a diverse background in Kathak and folk dances ready to add flavour to the already dynamic group - a feisty ensemble of musicians and singers who presented to their mesmerised audience the melodies of the world through a celebratory mood their product of inherent beauty and melodic rhapsody.

The second production also celebrated the lyrical heritage that our fore parents

brought to the shores of Guyana 176 years ago, with the recital of “Sakhi Uthi Kar” - a Chowtal created, among many others, by indentured servant longing for his motherland, Lalbihari Sharma, in a 1916 compilation called “Damra Phaag Bahar”, or Holi Songs of Demerara; and was made popular by Gaiutra Bahadu in her celebrated work ‘Coolie Woman’. The piece was recorded by Amar Ramessar with subtle differences in style, music and composition.

“Raagas and Rhythms 2” was a musical journey with global influences, which featured the introduction of various percussion instruments from around the world, such as the Cajon, the Dhol, the Tunga Drum and the Djembe.

The Cajon is a six sided, box-shaped percussion instrument originally from Peru. The Cajon is the most widely used Afro-Peruvian musical instrument since the late 18th century. Enslaved persons of the west and central African origin in the Americas, specifically Peru, are considered to be the source of the cajón drum.

Currently, the instrument is common in musical performance throughout some of the Americas and Spain.

The Dhol is a double-headed drum widely used, with regional variations, throughout the Indian subcontinent. Its range of distribution in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan primarily includes northern areas such as the Assam Valley, Gujarat, Kashmir, Maharashtra, Konkan, Goa, Punjab, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Sindh and Uttar Pradesh. The range stretches westward as far as eastern Afghanistan. The Punjabi dhol is perhaps best known abroad due to its prominent

GUYANA

place in the rhythm of popular Punjabi bhangra music.

The Tunga Drum or the Chinese drum is an early 20th century Barrel shaped drum. Traditionally suspended on a wooden stand and struck with two large sticks.

The Djembe which is originally from West Africa; The Bamana people of Mali hold that their saying Ankedje, anke be, which translates to everyone gather together in peace, serves to give the djembe its name as well as define its purpose.

Dje translates to gather, and Be translates to peace.

Musicians were from the Shakti String Orchestra and an ode to the Lord who clear all obstacles in one’s undertakings and life preceded the evening’s fare with a soul-stirring rendition of a “Ganesh Vandana”, followed consecutively by “Oh Rangrez. Tere naina bade qatil, Jab se tere naina, Mast magan, Tum hi ho, Mitwa, Eternal Magic - A tribute to the legends, A medley of Classics (Mohd.

Rafi, Kishore Kumar), Albelinaar (Manna Dey), Kiya hai pyaar (Jagjit&Chitra Singh), Dair-o-Haram(Jagjit Singh), “Sufimystical” – a Qawali medley combining elements of soft rock and filmy qawali (Qawali is the best-known form of Sufi music, which is inspired by the works of sufi poets like Rumi, Hafiz, Bulleh Shah, and Khwaja Ghulam Farid.)

After a short intermission the magical journey of melody continued with A. R. Rahamania (“Music is language itself. It should not have any barriers of caste, creed, language or anything. Music is one, only cultures are different.

Music is the language of languages. It is the ultimate mother of languages.”-A.R Rahman), Azeem-O-Shah_ Shahenshah (The Mughal leadership of India during the late 15th, early 16th century under Jalalluddin Akbar had some notable developments one of which was forging cultural and

religious cohesion which resulted in forming ‘Dini-llahi’ meaning ‘religion of God’ which promoted tolerance of other faiths and prohibits lust, sensuality, slander and pride, considering them sins),Tere Bina, a delicious rendition of the eternal classic Mann Mohini, Kun Faya Kun(‘Be! And it is.’ easily one of A.R Rahman’s finest sufi works. ”KUN” is an Arabic word referring to the act of manifesting, existing or being. The beauty of this song is not just the words or the music but in the complete conceptualisation), Folk Galore – a collection of folk music from across India (As a result of India’s vast cultural diversity, folk music tradition is very rich, which creates endless variety of styles and the style of each region constitutes an indispensable component of functions such as weddings, engagements and births. Also, there is a plethora of songs for such occasions and many are associated with planting and harvesting where villagers routinely sing of their hopes, fears and aspirations.)

Artistes whose talent created a symbiotic magical journey for their captivated audience were singers: Producer and Director Amar Ramessar, Suraj Narayan, Ian Hardat, Sagar Patil, Hubert Mellville, Seema Budhram, Sonie Gobin, Arisha Pooran, Yogeeta Budhram; and musicians: Vishal Khelawan, Avinash Roopchand, Nigel Lynch, Francis Bailey, Darshan Ramdeen, Ian Gonsalves, and David Astwood.

May the drummers of the Food of Love supersede the drummers of war beating across the globe, so that the family of man is transported to the world of love and not the realm of hate that is tragically destroying the world and its children.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

AFC, APNU are all about trouble making WE need to inform the public, what is really happening with some leaders in the two parliamentary Opposition parties. These people are getting many innocent Guyanese agitated and bothered.

I think that too many Guyanese are not into the ‘thick of things’ and it is the duty of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic to do some layman-type of informing.

Many, just too many Guyanese do not buy and read the papers and listen to the news.

So when they hear something, they respond to that which is louder and more convincing. Here is where the people must be told the truth, over and over again, and in a simple way.

I bring this matter of the supposed crime that Khemraj Ramjattan is placing at the feet of Mr. Ashni Singh, who is the Minister of Finance.

Very simply put, Mr. Singh did nothing different from what he did in 2012 and 2013. It is that he constitutionally restored monies that the joint Opposition had cut. If the minister was not in breach of the constitution and did not abuse his powers in 2012 and 2013, then how come this is the case now? This is what is being peddled by the two Opposition parties, via Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan. The whole thing is silly.

I feel that people know how A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) are trying hard to derail the PPP/C and to tarnish its good image. I feel also that APNU and AFC are all about trouble making and stirring up people. I am still awaiting the ‘no-confidence’ motion (against the PPP/C) as well as Mr.

Ashni Singh, being asked to answer criminal charges in court. Somebody is fooling Mr. Ramjattan that he has a legal leg to stand on. I have a little question for this Ramjattan fellow. Is it that he is bitter and jealous? Maybe he is just too childish and since his leaving the PPP/C did not matter (as he expected it to), then he is now in a quandary.

He really seems frustrated.

I make a little plea here for the ruling party.

I recall how the leaders went around informing the public about many issues and there was a time too when legal matters were explained. It is time to go back to some of these things. People need clarification and I think that they must be met right where they are. They can be led astray if left alone.

ALVIN HAMILTON

‘‘Clean Up My Country Programme’’ most welcome THE recently announced joint venture Clean-Up My Country Programme by the Guyana Government is long overdue and most welcomed, especially in Georgetown.

The Government through its Ministry of Finance had earmarked one billion dollars for the restoration of communities in and around Georgetown city. While a billion dollars is a lot of money, it is woefully inadequate to aggressively curb the culture of littering, and the beautification of the city, but Government like so many of us realised something needed to be done, and quickly.

Already, community outreach consultations have commenced and residences are contributing their voices on issues they face in their respective communities. There is, however, a recurring theme in the concerns of those residence at these meetings, they seemed to have abandon ownership of self and service to their communities and a kind of dependency sickness have replaced self-reliance. It’s clear residence support the cleanup project by Government but disowns any responsibility for the deplorable condition of many of their communities.

We have become an invalid people, depending heavily on Government to cater to our every need. While there is nothing wrong with expecting our elected officials to act in our interests, we too have a responsibility to our country and future generations.

A 1998 Inter- American Development Bank report indicates that the per capita generation of waste in Georgetown City exceeds 190 tons on a daily basis. That is a lot of filth. Though, in a fledging economy the accumulation of waste is nothing out of the ordinary, it is the failures of the city’s council to better manage collection of solid waste that remains worrisome. Poor governance by Georgetown’s Council have resulted in the backlog of tons of solid waste in just about every nook and cranny yet very little, up until now, has been done to adequately confront this crisis that exist at the Mayor and City Council. Though the project is a long way from completion one could hope that by its end the Mayor too would have been weeded out of office. In the meantime, the city is stinking.

ERIN NORTHE

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Decisions not based on fact could lead to injustice MEMBER of Parliament James Bond on the social media INEWSGUYANA. COM made a jaundiceeyed attempt to respond to a letter under my hands which was published in the Stabroek News on Monday July 14, 2014 and at the same time justify the attack on youth by the party leadership.

Fortunately for me, I have a longer tenure in politics and dealing with Industrial Relations issues to view Mr. James Bond attempt on the social media as puerile rhetoric, since as a learned attorney he should have demonstrated better logical analysis.

The fact is, and was again outlined by Mr. Bond, is that the leader acted unilaterally by not having the benefit of a statement from Ms. Kissoon in order to make an informed decision.

Let us for the sake of argument use Mr. Bond analogy of the cashier. The

supervisor who discovered the financial irregularity and made the complaint against the cashier may have failed to offer proper guidance and or adequate supervision to the cashier resulting in the financial irregularity. In such a case the supervisor is also culpable and can be sited for dereliction of duty. So suspending the cashier and leaving the supervisor on the job may also compromise the investigation. Therefore, decisions in these instances without all the facts can and usually lead to injustice to one party.

Therefore, in the case of MP Vanessa Kissoon and the General Secretary, any leader worth his or her salt would have acquainted themselves with all the information including statements from witnesses before arriving at a decision. That would have been the moral and more logical thing to do.

Again in his failed attempt to justify the leader’s action, Mr. Bond indicated that the General Secretary

made a complaint about actions against him personally

by Ms. Kissoon. If that was the view of Mr. Clarke, a former Home Affairs Minister, then he should have made a report to the police who are the competent authority to deal with such cases of assault and at the party level build a case pointing out the serious infractions of the constitution as a result of Ms. Kissoon’s action.

Let me hasten to inform Mr. Bond that I hold no brief for any of the parties involved in this issue under discussion but as leaders we need to be on the side of principle and not political expediency. Gone are the days when young people can be influenced by rationed information, this is the time of the information super highway and young people are engaged in more comparative analysis than before and will judge us from their conclusions.

BEVON CURRIE

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Select Committee still to agree to meet on AML/CFT Bill

THE Parliamentary Special Select Committee reviewing the Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill is yet to reach agreement on the date for its next meeting, Committee Chairperson, Ms. Gail Teixeira reported on Thursday.

With their last meeting being over a month ago, she told the Guyana Chronicle that she has since called for a meeting on July 30, but to date she has had no response from the mem-

President Ramotar says PPP/C is prepared ...

From page 3 means to address the political gridlock that has gripped the nation since the 2011 general elections, which gave the ruling party, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) the Government, but also resulted in a majority in the National Assembly for the combined Opposition, the AFC and APNU. The Head of State, last month at a press conference held at State House, made it clear that his administration is not opposed to calling neither the general elections nor the local government elections, adding that issuing the commencement order for these processes could be based on the impacts of the ruling by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The General-Secretary of the ruling party, Clement Rohee, also made similar hints at a party press conference minutes after the final vote to pass the 2014 Budget, minus $37.4B in allocations in April.

Rohee said, “I am optimistic that the President,

“It will be a good occasion for you to explain to the people if your opposition to the construction of a Marriot Hotel was rooted in the fact that your chief financier is also in the hotel business.”

Cabinet and ministerial colleagues will find a way out and this way out will depend on the people’s will to overcome these difficulties.

“We have ultimately great confidence in the will of the Guyanese people, as they have demonstrated in the past to find their way out of difficulties. This wound (the budget cuts) will heal and the people of this country will help us heal this wound.”

Section 106 (6) of the Constitution states that: “The Cabinet and President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of the majority of all Members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

However, the following paragraph, Section 106 (7) makes clear that: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution, supported by no less than two-thirds of all elected members of the National Assembly, and shall resign after a new President takes the oath of office following the election.”

bers of the combined Opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC), who have representatives on the Committee.

“All of our efforts have been futile; there has been no progress. I have called a meeting, but we are in a position where we have to wait and see what happens,” Teixeira said.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), earlier this month, officially confirmed its decision to commence a targeted review of Guyana, in a letter dated July 9, 2014, prior to its October 2014 plenary meeting.

And the international watchdog made it clear that the purpose of this targeted review will be to examine the most significant deficiencies in Guyana’s AML/ CFT framework that pose a risk to the international financial system. According to FATF, its review will identify steps that should be taken to address those deficiencies through the development of an Action Plan.

FATF’s letter said: “This review will be conducted by the

MS. GAIL TEIXEIRA

International Co-operation Review Group (ICRG), Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG), co-chaired by Ms. Darlene Boileau (Canada) and Ms. Maria Fernanda Garcia-Yrigoyen Maúrtua (Peru).

“In our capacity as ICRG Co-Chairs, we now request your full cooperation in assisting the ARRG to conduct this work, including by providing up-to-date information on your jurisdiction related to AML and CFT issues as requested by the ARRG co-chairs.”

Guyana, according to the letter, will be given an opportunity to review the draft targeted review and to have a face-toface meeting with the ARRG. At its next meeting on 20-24 October, 2014, in Paris, France, the FATF is expected to discuss the results of Guyana’s targeted review.

The National Assembly goes into recess from August 10 until October 10, leaving Guyana with less than a month to make a move that can bolster Guyana’s case when FATF commenced its review. (Vanessa Narine)

Produce the evidence of fraud

THE Board of Directors of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) delivered a blistering rejection of the Alliance for Change’s (AFC) allegations of ‘massive fraud’ at the airport.

In a Kaieteur News report yesterday, under the headline ‘Major skullduggery” at CJIA – AFC’, the party’s Member of Parliament (MP), Cathy Hughes, stated that the AFC recently discovered a “major skullduggery” at CJIA. According to her, at a party press conference on Thursday at Side Walk Café, “the party has received reports that indicate that fraud is happening at the highest levels of authority in the corporation.” The MP charged that a senior employee who had acted in collusion with an “imposter” to defraud the company is still on the job. She disclosed that that particular employee had identified his “partner in crime” as a contractor to whom large sums of money were made payable. Hughes also divulged that the employee’s attempt at fraud was apparently thwarted when bank officials questioned the imposter.

She said that the bank has since blacklisted the CJIA worker and he is no longer allowed to transact any business with that bank.

“In almost every other organisation this employee would have been dismissed immediately but, according to reports reaching the AFC, the employee acts in collusion with senior

– CJIA Board tells AFC

colleagues in a tight knit circle committing various acts of fraud against the company, including siphoning off building supplies to the construction and renovations of the homes of the same senior officials. Reports also point to a possible abuse of the Duty Free Concession,” Hughes said.

The CJIA’s Board of Directors, in response, has called for the AFC to produce the evidence to back its claims. “The party should directly engage the Board of Directors and/or the police on any alleged evidence it has,” the CJIA Board said.

In a statement it said: “The CJIA is calling on the Alliance For Change (AFC) to make available to the appropriate authorities all evidence it claims to have with regards to the alleged massive fraud at CJIA.” “It is the opinion of the Board that these malicious allegations may be the work of an aggrieved senior employee who was recently disciplined for a series of misconduct.”

“The aggrieved employee may have exhausted all appeals made to various persons and took this avenue as a last ditch to discredit the Corporation.”

The Board has made it clear that the AFC has to be cautious with its pronouncements and query allegations brought to the party.

Cheddi Jagan International Airport

9

Crane woman found dead in her home

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

By Leroy Smith

T H I RT Y- Y E A R - O L D Candy Rawlins of Lot 4, Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, was yesterday morning found dead in a room at her home.

on the roadway jumping into a taxi. However, residents could not say which taxi driver took the man out of the village but admitted that he has a motor cycle which he would usually use as his means of transportation.

His name was given as

-allegedly murdered by her husband -11-year-old daughter tied to a chair

their investigations into the matter.

Yesterday as the body of the woman was being taken out of the house by investigators, several residents gathered and were heard commenting on the relationship the two shared.

One woman who was a friend of the dead woman broke down in tears after investigators brought the body and placed it into the hearse.

Investigators removed a blood stained knife and several pieces of duct tape from the scene of the murder in a black plastic bag.

Persons in the area related that they heard nothing strange or no noise coming from the house.

The house where the incident occurred and where the couple lived Shortly after the incident the father of the 11-year-

old was informed of the development and travelled

to Georgetown to take care of his daughter.

Missing Guyanese in Brooklyn…

A police investigator carries a black bag with the knife and duct-tape, which is suspected to have been used in the murder of the woman The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the discovery was made by the woman’s 11-year-old daughter who was tied to a chair in the home by the suspect who has been married to Candy Rawlins for about three years now.

The daughter reportedly told relatives that her “stepfather” tied her then entered the room he shared with his wife and proceeded to tie her up also. She recalled that after tying up her mother the man then proceeded to beat her and later slit her throat with a knife.

The man then packed his working bag and calmly walked out of the house yesterday just before 07:00 hrs leaving the little girl tied to the chair and her mother bleeding from the slash to the throat.

According to information reaching this newspaper from persons who were on the scene of the incident yesterday, the man was spotted

Vider Rawlins and based on facts received by this publication, the man also left a suicide note next to the body of the woman stating that by the time he was found by investigators he would be dead.

Persons in the area said that since the man and the woman were married the relationship has been with lots of ups and downs and the quarrels and fights were many. It is not clear if the two had any altercation prior to the incident.

Meanwhile, a resident was overheard commenting that the father of Candy Rawlins was never in approval of the marriage of the woman to the man who works as a construction worker.

After the incident, yesterday, the sister of the suspect showed up at the scene and was comforting the 11- yearold before they gave statements to the police.

The police are continuing

Human head found in area where woman’s hands were discovered days ago INVESTIGATORS are awaiting a New York medical examiner’s report to determine if what appears to be a human head and other body parts are linked to a partially dismembered body discovered weeks ago.

A law enforcement official familiar with the case said on Friday that the dismembered body is likely that of a Brooklyn woman reported missing earlier this month. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because that official was not authorised to release the information, but the official said a tattoo on the torso of the body found on July 8 in a Bay Shore Missing for now 15 days: municipal parking lot M r s C h i n e l l e L a t o y a matches one on Chi- Browne nelle Latoya Browne, 27. The latest discovery was reportedly made on Thursday, 25 miles away in Hempstead.

Police in New York City and Suffolk County confirmed they are working together on the missing person investigation involving Browne. Hempstead police say the head

was found at about 5 p.m. on Thursday on Boylston Street in Hempstead, close to where the two arms were found a day apart.

A Hempstead homeowner found a human arm with women’s clothing attached to it in his front yard on Webb Avenue on July 9. The next day, someone else discovered another human arm in their yard about a half-mile away, near Stewart Avenue and Cornell Street.

Police were looking into whether the arms are related to the discovery of a partially dismembered body in a municipal parking lot in Bay Shore on July 8, when two people walking to the ferry on Fire Island spotted the body.

Homicide detectives in Nassau and Suffolk counties are investigating as they await DNA results on the other body parts.

Chinelle Browne, 27, originally from Georgetown, went missing in Brooklyn, New York on Saturday 5th July, 2012. Chinelle had migrated to the United States last May, had returned to Guyana in April this year for two weeks, and then had returned to reside in the USA until she went missing that Saturday. Her New York address was 346 Sumter Street, Brooklyn.

Browne had four children: three–year-old twins Ariel and Michaela; five-year-old Jonathan, and seven-year-old Gabrielle Browne, all of whom reside with their father in Guyana.

Crime scene investigators are waiting on the DNA results from the laboratory to officially confirm that the body may be that of the Guyanese mom.

(Asif Hakim, credits to NBC New York)

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Portrait in honour of Nelson Mandela unveiled

By Sandy Agasen

MINISTER of Public Works, Robeson Benn, along with Registrar of University of Guyana Vincent Alexander, yesterday, unveiled a portrait in honour of Nelson Mandela.

The portrait was done by Tammy Walker.

The event, at the Museum of African Heritage, Barima Avenue, Bel Air, was held in commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day (Mandela Day), the 95th birth anniversary of Mr Rolihlahla Mandela better known as Nelson Mandela.

This year signifies the fourth annual commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day. The United Nations, in November 2009 adopted a resolution designating that July 18 be observed each year as Mandela International Day beginning in July 2010.

This came about following an international campaign by the Nel-

service of humanity, in the fields of conflict resolution and race relations.

HUMANTARIAN Benn also mentioned that Mandela fought for the promotion and protection of human rights, reconciliation, gender equality and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, as well as the upliftment of poor and underdeveloped communities. Mandela Day, also, acknowledges his contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.

Benn acknowledged Mandela’s contribution to the international struggle for democracy and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.

According to Benn, during his two visits to South Africa, Mandela and others struggled against apartheid, the then legal policy of the Republic of South Africa. This involved racial segregation of the people of South Africa and also the political, legal and economic discrimination.

Mandela took it upon himself to fight to free South Africa from this tyrannical regime and make it a country where equal-

One of the paintings in the Museum of African Heritage, which depicts the Africans (after slavery) pooling their money to purchase villages son Mandela Foundation for the great man to be thus recognised.

The Foundation had been already observing his birthday as Mandela Day but believed that this should be done on a global scale.

For 67 years Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity — as a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.

Benn explained that Mandela Day seeks to recognise and celebrate Nelson Mandela’s values and his dedication to the

ity exists.

Alexander pointed out that for Mandela, education was fundamental. He (Nelson Mandela) wanted the people of his nation to be educated. “Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world” –

Nelson Mandela.

Head of the Summer Programme, Ms. Florence Dalgetty, highlighted the struggles and teachings of Mandela during his 67 years.

All the speakers recalled that during the struggle to free South Africa and make it a country where every person, regardless of skin colour had equal rights, saw Mandela being arrested for treason in 1956.

Mandela was released from prison in 1990. He had spent 27 years of his life behind bars because he chose to put the quality of life of the South African people ahead of his own.

Ms. Dalgetty explained that after Mandela was released from prison, the ban that was placed on Mandela’s political party (African National ConTammy Walker gress) in 1960 was lifted, which allowed him to contest in South Africa’s first democratic election in 1994.

Mandela was elected president and after his first term in office, he was hailed as a statesman and humanitarian.

Nelson Mandela International Day aims to inspire all to do good works for people and the planet. Its theme is ‘Take Action, Inspire Change’ and persons are being encouraged today to spend at least 67 minutes doing some form of community service in honour of the 67 years Mandela devoted to the fight for human rights and social justice.

“Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural.

It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings” – Nelson Mandela.

‘Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.’

– Nelson Mandela

GUYSUCO to review its strategic plan

By Vanessa Narine

FINANCE Director of the Guyana Sugar Corporation, Mr. Paul Bhim has indicated that the issues affecting the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) will be addressed with the upcoming review of the entity’s strategic plan.

He acknowledged that the current world price market for sugar stands at US18c per pound of sugar and that GuySuCo production cost averages around US35c per pound, with sales standing at US25c per pound.

However, Bhim pointed out that world market prices fluctuate and reiterated that the review of the corporation’s strategic plan will address the issues that are currently affecting its cash flow.

“The world market price fluctuates. A few days ago it was at US20c and a few years ago it was nearly US30c per pound…we are not unaware of what the issues are and we are working to address these,” he said.

The Finance Director also addressed the debt burden of GuySuCo, currently pegged at $42B, and stated that this is expected to be significantly reduced by the end of the year.

Of the $42B debt, some $23B reflects long term debt and $19.4B reflects short term debts of the corporation. With regards to the latter are: $2.7B owed to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA); $729M for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS); $1.4B for the Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund; a

-with a view to address issues affecting the industry $3B loan from the National Commercial Bank of Jamaica to cover operating costs, and $2.5B for seven local banks.

Among its long term debts are: $56M for the World Bank, $32M for the Exim Bank of China; and $24M from Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

“We hope to reduce the debt very soon; reduce it by a lot by year end, particularly as we get into the second crop,” he said.

MR. PAUL BHIM

TURNAROUND NOT AFFECTED According to him, while the debt, production costs and selling prices are challenges for the Corporation, these will not affect the turnaround of the industry.

“We have a plan for the turnaround and we have a plan to finance that turnaround,” he said.

Bhim noted that GuySuCo was able to surpass its first crop target of 74,000, by bringing in close to 80,000 tonnes of sugar.

He underscored the fact too that there are other challenges facing the Corporation, including, climate change, labour and mechanisation.

As a result of climate change, weather patterns have changed and are affecting the industry’s output; for example the industry was used to 120 opportunity days, but workers now have to make do with 80 or less days.

Relative to the labour issue, a decreasing labour pool, steps are being taken to move to mechanisation, which will not displace sugar workers, but address the issue of labour shortage.

GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Raj Singh, reiterated similar sentiments and made it clear that while the corporation has its challenges, these will not affect the turnaround of the industry.

Among the measures to be undertaken to ensure a turnaround of the industry, for which the allocation adSee page 11

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Collapsed house fatally crushes mentally-ill man

By Michel Outridge

DOMITRI Reis, 23, who was mentally ill, met a gruesome and tragic end early yesterday morning when the dilapidated and abandoned wooden house he was sleeping under collapsed crushing him to death.

Speaking to this publication yesterday afternoon, the mother of the deceased, Jennifer Curry-Hoppie said that she woke up to the news yesterday morning and is still in a state of shock but could not bear to see the broken and bloodied body of her son at the scene.

She explained that two years ago her child went to the interior to work, and while there she received the news that he ‘run mad’ and shortly after he returned home early one morning and she noticed a strange change in his behaviour.

Not long after, Curry-Hoppie said her loved one’s behaviour Dead: Domitri Reis took a turn for the worst in which he became violent and even attacked her spouse during a quarrel, and when they took him for treatment at the Georgetown Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Psychiatric Department he exited the place.

The woman admitted that Reis used to ‘smoke’ but was unsure what substance he abused but was not ‘mad’ in anyway. However, he used to act out sometimes in a very violent manner when they quarrelled with him to seek treatment, the mother explained.

To avoid their talk, he left home and began residing at the home of several relatives including his sister and an aunt, after

GUYSUCO to review ...

From page 10 dresses are: increased production and lower cost of production; diversified target markets and expansion of value-added production in order to survive.

Additionally, a $6B allocation, in this year’s National Budget, for GuySuCo was approved by the National Assembly. The $6B is expected to cover expenditures that include: mechanisation, through the conversion of 2,500 hectares of land to be suitable for mechanical operations, which will be done at a cost of $1.1B; tillage and replanting of 9,200 hectares, both efforts being consistent with improving cane production and yield, which will be done at a cost of $1B; factory upgrading of all sugar estates, including Skeldon, at a cost of $2B; and works to field infrastructure to improve field to factory access and purchasing of equipment, excavators, bell loaders, tractors, etc. to account for the remainder of the allocation.

The sugar industry is projected to record an improvement of over 16 per cent in output to 219,000 tonnes this year. In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 percent of total exports valued at US$112.2M and the industry contributed 3.9 percent of the country’s GDP.

The house which collapsed and crushed Reis to death which he began to occupy empty and abandoned houses in the Beterverwagting area until he was killed.

He was occupying a wooden cottage at Lot 99 Paul’s Lane, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, when it collapsed fatally crushing him in the process.

Relatives told this publication that Reis was trapped under the house still wrapped up in his bed sheet while his hammock was tied up inside the house.

Residents in the Mother of the deceased: street said that they heard Jennifer Curry-Hoppie the loud crashing noise at about 03:00 hrs yesterday during a heavy downpour but did not bother to investigate and it was until daylight the body was spotted by passersby

and they were alerted.

Ms. Curry-Hoppie said her son was intelligent and used to reside in Canada with his father but he misbehaved and was sent back to Guyana but always expressed his desire to return to that country of which he was a citizen.

She added that he would walk from Beterverwagting to the city to the Canadian Embassy where he went to speak to officials there in an effort to return to Canada. He had even renewed his passport and was expected to travel, when he began behaving rather strangely saying certain things that were not ordinary.

Before Reis started to experience mental problems he was a labourer and did many jobs in that village until he changed two years ago and began roaming but would be supplied with meals and grocery items, which he cooked whenever he wanted to.

Reis, was the fourth of six children and was unmarried with no children.

His relatives said when he was in his right senses he would carry on a normal conversation but left home on his own accord to be away from his family because they used to tell him to reform and wanted him to seek treatment for his condition, all of which he refused.

GRA’s LEID officials come under heavy gun fire - as large quantity of smuggled chicken seized

THE Guyana Police Force is currently investigating an armed attack on four officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) at around 23:25 hrs on Thursday in the vicinity of Dundee, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.

The officers, who were conducting a surveillance exercise based on intelligence received, came under heavy gunfire after detaining three minibuses containing 150 boxes of chicken for which no papers could be produced, and a car driven by the son of a suspected smuggler.

It is alleged that shortly after the keys for the vehicles and the cell phones of the occupants were taken into custody that the suspected smuggler himself and three accomplices pulled up in a grey Toyota Allion car, exited and opened fire in the direction of the LEID officials.

T h e o ff i c e r s w e r e forced to retreat and take cover, while the detainees escaped in several waiting vehicles.

When the dust settled, the vehicle used by LEID officials to conduct the exercise was badly damaged after being riddled with bullets, as well as two of

the detained minibuses.

One officer who was not so fortunate was injured about the body with pellets allegedly fired from a shot gun.

Several spent shells, live rounds and war heads were reportedly recovered by police from the scene.

Commissioner-General, Mr. Khurshid Sattaur has expressed grave concern at the length to which persons are willing to go to ply their illegal trade, defraud the Government of revenues and endanger the lives of consumers with smuggled goods. He said that he is heartened by the commitment of his officers to duty even in

Commissioner-General Mr. Khurshid Sattaur the face of danger to life and limb.

“I commend the officials of LEID for so ably carrying out their duty inspite of the many challenges,” Mr. Sattaur said.

He noted that GRA will continue to play its role and take a strong stance against such nefarious activities and criminal elements.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

GPF monitoring performance, policy and operations

‘D’ Division Commander Ian Amsterdam distributing kites to one of the many police scout groups earlier this year as part of the partnership between the Force and the community

A fitness march with members of the Force and a faith-based organisation entering the Brickdam Police compound

By Leroy Smith THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) is very confident that it is on the right track and will be successful in the completion of the execution of its Strategic Plan.

Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud on Wednesday indicated that the Force is at a unique moment in its history where the implementation of the Strategic Plan is

manifesting into the transformation of the organisation.

He related that what the Force presently has is a new decision making structure, which has an executive leadership addressing its policy, performance and operations.

In addition, the decisions being adopted by the GPF are no longer ad hoc, but rather are based on research and analysis which should serve to make the Force a

proactive organisation.

Seelall said that in the present day of policing of a society which is littered with youth gangs, and organised crimes such as narco and firearms trafficking, money laundering and trafficking in persons, the organisation needs to be proactive in order to be relevant. The GPF is also doing much work with respect to the implementation of new and Residents from Agricola escort the police to a community ground which is presently under development by the police and several partners, which will be soon re-commissioned (Photos by Leroy Smith)

innovative programmes and projects which according to the Top Cop are continuously being monitored.

A l r e a d y, D i v i s i o n a l Commanders and the GPF headquarters have begun implementing the five priority areas of the Strategic Management Plan where results are being recorded each day.

Persaud pointed to sustained intelligence collaboration, capturing of perpetrators of high profile crimes, recovery of precious metals hours after they were stolen and the recapturing of high profile prisoners who staged daring escape bids among other achievements.

With respect to partnerships, each Division within the GPF, according to Top Cop, has been fostering closer ties with their community policing groups whereby they are being integrated into the operations of the Force. That is coupled

with the various community projects which have been launched in several police divisions, namely - the Project Impact Albouystown, and more recently Project C which was launched in ‘D’ Division.

The Commissioner of Police assured that as the Force continues its partnership there will be more launching of several such initiatives, which are aimed at getting the members of the communities, especially the young people, involved in activities that occupy their time gainfully.

The initiatives, however, are not being done single handedly the Commissioner reminded, pointing to the assistance from the Ministries of Home Affairs, Culture,Youth and Sport and Human Services along with faith -based organisations and members of the corporate sector.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Local Scouts leave tomorrow for Curacao Jamboree “Our intelligence” and “Our Nature.”

Scouts representing Guyana at the event would also be showcasing Guyana’s cultural folklore, among other things. The last Jamboree was held in Guyana in 2009, and camping took place at the Scouts Association on Woolford

The scouts who will be departing Guyana tomorrow for the Curacao Jamboree

A team of nine dynamic leaders and 33 explorers and venture scouts from Guyana will depart tomorrow to participate in the Caribbean Scouts Jamboree celebrations in Curacao from July 21 to 28.

The activity is mostly

referred to as the ‘Periodic Gathering of Scouts within the Caribbean’, and has been held at intervals since 1952.

This gathering is the 15th observance.

This year’s observance will be held under the

theme: “Life Tracking Treasures” and Scouts would be given opportunity to express themselves under the different sub-themes: “Our Mind and Body,” “Our Family and Friends,” “Our Desires and Dreams,” “Our Happiness and Challenges,”

Avenue in Georgetown.

According to seniors at the Guyana Scouting Association, events like this one are usually used to instill discipline into the young minds of its members, among other values.

At such events, scout leaders also insist that young scouts become better

persons through teaching and guidance sessions about courage and discipline, coupled with developing good habits of obedience, self-reliance, courtesy and consideration for others.

Young scout members are constantly taught to abide by these rules. (Leroy Smith)

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

‘D’ Division forms youth club on heels of C-PETS launching POLICE in 'D' Division have formed a youth club in the community of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo following the mammoth launching of the Guyana Police Force C-PETS programme last week.

The youth club was formed within a week of working with youths in that community, and will be adopted by the police in that division; while the young people will also form part of the broader scouting body in that divi-

sion after they would have completed the relevant training.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle shortly after the launching earlier this week, 'D' Division Deputy Commander, Superintendent Mansell,

Superintendent Mansell, the children and members of the community policing group at the launching earlier this week

related that the initiative was well received, and the formation of the young club also saw parents of the children coming out in their numbers to support the initiative.

A total of 25 children attended the initial meeting of the club and expressed interest in becoming part of the youth club in the community. Supt Mansell, who was present at the event, spoke to the young minds and cautioned them about the importance of staying away from criminal activities and remaining on the path that would see them living

to grow into adults.

He also urged the young children to seize every opportunity at acquiring education offered by the Guyana Police Force as well as acquired through sporting activities and ventures, since those opportunities would help them to build themselves as individuals.

The 25-strong member youth club was urged to work diligently to be ambassadors of their communities. Meanwhile, in the coming week, the division will be launching another youth club on the West Bank of Demerara, where

there has been a calling for the establishment of youth clubs and the creation of activities which could gainfully occupy the time of the young people in the communities.

Mansell told the Guyana Chronicle that the force, and particularly the division, would be working with the community to ensure that the community’s social needs are met, wherever and whenever that is possible.

Members of the Community Policing Groups were present at the formation of the youth club.

(Leroy Smith)

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

PYO launches 2nd Annual ‘Michael Ford Domino’ Competition IN order to honour the memory of Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) activist Michael Ford, who was killed on July 17, 1964, the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) launched its 2nd Annual Michael Ford Domino Competition on Thursday last.

Carded to be brimming with excitement, this competition will see players from Regions 1, 2, 3, 4 (East Bank, Georgetown and East Coast), 5, 6, 9 and 10 pit their skills against each other for a

chance to claim the coveted title of 2nd Annual Micheal Ford Domino Champion.

The Competition was started last year in memory of the sacrifice of Michael Forde, who had lived and died thinking of others, not himself; and therefore his death must not be forgotten.

Ford was killed when a young man went into the Progressive Bookshop, housed in the Freedom House building, with a small carton which he placed on a chair, purchased a book

and, without waiting for his change, hurriedly left the shop, leaving his box behind.

Seconds after the man had left, Forde, an employee of the bookstore, became suspicious and tried to throw the box out of the building, when it exploded.

The lower part of Forde’s left hand was hurled some 50 yards away, back of the pit entrance of the Metropole Cinema. His mutilated body was found face upward lying across the entrance of Freedom House with just strips

Woman freed of throwing corrosive substance/threatening language charges instituted in 2012 MAREXA Ann Paul, who appeared before Magistrate Allan Wilson to answer charges of throwing a corrosive substance and using threatening language two years ago, pleaded not guilty to both charges after several trials.

Her attorney, Ms. Omeyana Hamilton had successfully requested reasonable bail for this defendant and Paul had been placed on $65,000 bail since commencement of the matter on March 15, 2012.

This case reportedly has its genesis in a triangular

love affair involving the virtual complainant Ms. Shonette Burke, and in both instances when it had gone to trial, the magistrate had upheld no-case submissions and had pointed to gross inconsistencies in the virtual complainant’s account of events.

Ms. Hamilton told the Guyana Chronicle, “It seemed obvious that she (Burke) had fabricated the story when she was questioned about her report and statement to the police in relation to her testimony.”

Ms Hamilton related that the throwing of corrosive

substance charge was dismissed on October 29, 2013, and the threatening language charge was dismissed on the following day.

“The matters were tried separately because the throwing of corrosive substance is an indictable offence and the threatening language is a summary offence,” she explained.

But although this case was dismissed since last year, Ms. Paul has been facing hurdles in relation to attaining a career, and has been accused of wanting to harm Burke.

(Shivanie Sugrim)

of clothing dangling around his waist.

But Michael Forde’s quick thinking and brave ac-

tion saved the lives of some 40 persons, including Mrs. Janet Jagan, the then General Secretary of the People’s

Progressive Party (PPP).

A number of prizes would be at stake during the competition.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Residents say Moruca developing rapidly under PPP/C Government MORUCA, part of the Barima-Waini Region 1 North West District, is developing rapidly un-

der the People’s Progressive Party /Civic (PPP/C) Government.

Reports are that the

large and growing population has transformed the community over the past 21 years because of mas-

sive investments made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government in agriculture, health and education, and to improve infrastructure and social services.

A recent visit to the area has revealed that Moruca residents now own cars and minibuses, and are offering transportation services to the general public.

One resident pointed out that under the previous PNC Government there was nothing like hire car and mini bus service in Moruca. He said this PPP Government has a heart for the people of Guyana, and has spent large sums to construct paved roads so cars and minibuses can operate.

The resident, a farmer, said the Government has also developed the water-

front area of Kumaka with paved roads so residents can do shopping and other businesses in comfort.

Another resident pointed to the modern buildings being built in Moruca and said that that shows that development is taking place. He said residents now have better houses and telephone cell ser-

vices, and he called for the Government to consider giving Moruca township status.

Moruca also has electricity services, and several residents operate speedboat services between Moruca and Charity in Region 2 on a daily basis. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Sooba fears Chase-Green might be “attracted to her” However, the acting Town Clerk is contending that Chase-Green’s attempt is not only to tarnish her character but to frustrate her efforts in the work she is currently engaged in, which involves aiding in the development of the city.

The administration she said has currently embarked on several initiatives which

Acting Town Clerk, Carol Sooba

By Ravin Singh ACTING Town Clerk, Carol Sooba, yesterday, at a press conference held at City Hall, expressed her fear that Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green “might be attracted to her” considering the fact that LGBT issues are surfacing.

Sooba explained that for the longest while the LGBT issue has been on the front-burner in the country and the ongoing onslaught by

Patricia Chase-Green

the Deputy Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green on her (Sooba) character, has hinted to her that the Deputy Mayor “has attraction towards her.”

According to the acting Town Clerk, the Deputy Mayor intends to tarnish her character through her many declarations made recently.

She said that every public opportunity Chase-Green gets, she uses to “tarnish” her.

“It worries me badly. I am concerned as to why she would be so attracted to me,” Sooba said, laughing.

Moruca farmers seeking help in acoushi ants’ infestation FARMERS of Moruca, in the North West District of Region 1, especially in the Karaburi community located some six miles from

Rodrigues, has said that the acoushi ants are constantly attacking the cassava, sucker, vegetable and vine crops of the farmers, and are giving them

the commercial centre of Kumaka, are appealing to the Agriculture Ministry for help to combat an infestation of thousands of acoushi ants, which are destroying their crops.

Farmer and Councillor of Karaburi, Mr. Benedick

a headache. He said the very alarming situation is causing frustration among farmers.

Rodrigues said the village has a fogging machine but chemicals are needed to spray the acoushi ants.

(Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

include a consultation on the rehabilitation of City Hall.

She said that the rehabilitation of the complex historical building will be done through a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Culture and senior officials at City Hall.

Another initiative launched by the administra-

tive body is a current cleanup exercise which was taken to Bel Air yesterday and will continue today (Saturday) in Lodge. Sooba said that this exercise has seen a remarkable contribution from residents who are eager and willing to render assistance.

While these initiatives are being rolled out by the administration, however,

Sooba contended that the Deputy Mayor and her cabal are attempting to hinder progress. She said: “The Deputy Mayor and her concubine are on a self-destructive path that has a limited journey. I am convinced that the journey they are headed on is a limited one,” Sooba emphasised.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

ANSA McAL, R. Bassoo & Sons join growing list of Guyana Festival sponsors

(Caribbean Premier League) but we will have a festival booth at the CPL, and during the interval, we will have some festival drumming to showcase to the world what Guyana has to offer.”

From left to right are: Mrs Bassoo; Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali; the CEO of R. Bassoo & Sons Ltd; coordinator of the Guyana Festival, Tameca Sukhdeo Singh; and staff of R. Bassoo & Sons Ltd

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally ANSA McAL Trading Limited with a donation of $1M, and R. Bassoo & Sons Limited with a donation of $500,000 are the latest corporate sponsors of the inaugural Guyana Festival, slated for August 8-10 staging at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Those donations were handed over to Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali in the subject ministry’s boardroom on Thursday, July 17, during a simple handing over ceremony which ANSA McAL Public Relations Manager, Darshnie Yusuf, embraced to explain that

“one of the reasons for us to come on board and support this event is that this event gives the Guyanese people the opportunity to showcase their talent, and anything of this nature we are happy to support.”

She said: “We like (the fact) also that different sectors of art will be showcased; and also, since our company loves to support sports, we are therefore very excited that ‘sports’ is a part of the festival.

“As for the sports aspect, we are very interested in that, and this festival will give our local sportsmen and women the opportunity to showcase themselves…

“We love the concept of the festival passports; it will

give our people the chance to benefit from not just the event discounts, but also at stores,” she added.

The Chief Executive Officer and owner of R. Bassoo & Sons Limited, speaking briefly at the ceremony, said he was pleased to be associated with the event, but moreso with the cooking aspect of the festival, because he owns the Lotus Restaurant at the Cheddie Jagan International Airport.

Bassoo said, “It is an innovative and great idea, and I would like to applaud the Minister of Tourism for initiating this event.”

Bassoo urged Guyanese to come out in full force to support this event, and reiterated that this is a great

From left to right are: Coordinator of the Guyana Festival, Tameca Sukhdeo Singh; Minister of Tourism (ag), Irfaan Ali; and ANSA McAL Public Relations Manager, Ms Darshnie Yusuf

opportunity to showcase Guyana’s diverse people and culture.

He also called on Minister Ali to make the Guyana Festival an annual event.

Minister Irfaan Ali, responding, said: “This ah we ting”, we can now dub the festival in this manner. Ali pointed out that the enthusiasm and response to the event is continuing to ‘blow us away’.

He related that ANSA McAL has been one of Guyana’s consistent supporters of everything Guyanese, and he said he would like to recognise the company for its dynamic support in every single major activity. “They never push you around; we

called them, and in a short time they were on board to support us,” Ali related.

Minister Ali also noted that R. Bassoo & Sons Ltd has been serving the public with great service for a number of years through its Lotus Restaurant at the CJIA. The company is taking part in the cooking competition slated for August 10.

Minister Ali emphasised: “I urge Guyanese to look at the companies that are promoting us and see who are celebrating our Guyanese people and our culture, and let us support these companies.” He also said that, “I know a lot of hype and excitement are focused on CPL

Guyana Festival Coin (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

FESTIVAL COIN The eagerly awaited Festival Coin was launched with King’s Jewellery World and the Ministry of Tourism bringing 300 pieces to Guyana. The coin is being sold at the Ministry of Tourism, Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and King’s Jewellery World at a cost of $3,000.

The Festival’s opening ceremony on Friday, August 8, will feature a fusion of Guyanese cultures, comprising various dramatic performances highlighting dramatic groups and craft, dance, poetry and painting.

The Guyana Festival Committee related that persons and groups interested in participating in the Festival Cook Out can access the registration forms from the website www.guyanafestival.gy or visit the Facebook page: Guyana Festival.

Interested persons can also pick up their Guyana Festival passports at a cost of $3000, or US$15, at the following locations: Nigel’s Supermarket; Ashmins Store; Courts; N and S Mattai; Survival Supermarket; KK Gas Station (Mahaica); M and M Snackette; Courts at Parika; Church’s Chicken at Linden; Essential Care Pharmacy; G3 Building at Diamond Housing Scheme; Fat Boy Discount Store (Stelling Road, Vreed-enHoop); the Ministry of Tourism’s South Road Office; and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.

The three-day Guyana Festival will feature the nation’s most celebrated legends in sports, culture, art, music, food, entertainment, and much more.

Day One will feature an air-show and national concert; on Day Two the audience will experience the Night of the Legends, and Day Three will feature a National Cook-Off with food from every culture, followed by the Generation Next concert.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Marriott Hotel will not be a white elephant – PPP GS Clement Rohee

By Sandy Agasen THE ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) made it clear on Monday that the Marriott Hotel will not be a “white elephant.”

PPP General-Secretary Mr. Clement Rohee blasted the combined Opposition on the fact that they were not given the privilege to know what is best for Guyana and its people.

At the weekly news conference at Freedom House on Robb Street, Rohee was asked why Government’s investment policies seemed to favour foreigners and more or less undermine Guyanese sovereignty.

He responded by vehemently clarifying the People’s Progressive Party’s position on the issue of investment in Guyana, pointing out that “every PPP administration, from (late) President Cheddi Jagan right down to President Donald Ramotar, has stated publicly that Guyana is open to public/private investments,

foreign direct investments (FDI), and local investments.

“Whoever has the resources to invest, even if it is a sweets factory, let them invest!

Provided that the necessary rules are followed, there is no problem; Guyana is open to investments,” Rohee declared.

He maintained that the PPP administration has never discriminated between any form of investment in Guyana, and it will not do so in the future.

“Discrimination between foreign direct investments and local investment is not in our lexicon,” Rohee declared as he claimed that the combined APNU/AFC Opposition does not have the privilege to say what is best for the country, although there is nothing wrong with them having a view.

“They may have a view, and nothing is wrong with them having a view; but it doesn’t mean to say that their view is the only view that is sanctified by the Almighty, and therefore must be followed by the Government,”

he said.

WHITE ELEPHANT? The principal investors in the Atlantic Hotel Incorporated (AHI) (Marriott Hotel Guyana project and Entertainment Complex) are the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) and the British Virgin

Islands-registered ACE Square Investments Ltd. Rohee was asked about viability of Government’s investment thorough NICIL into the Marriott Hotel, and he responded that “every Government has the legitimate right to look at the investment portfolios, profiles, and offers that have been made. No one

has a monopoly on the truth -- where investments should flow and where (they) should not flow.”

He said the Opposition strategy is to make Guyana look unattractive to investors, and paint the security situation in the country so bad that nobody wants to come here.

Rohee added that the Op-

position parties seek to paint the Government as corrupt: “Before you can make your investment here, you have to bribe that person” – which portrays Guyana as an unhealthy country for investments, among other things.

He said that, unlike the Opposition parties, the PPP is of the view that Guyanese are happy about the current investments being made in the hotel industry; and the PPP firmly believes the Marriott Hotel will be a success.

Concerns were expressed on the number of hotels already founded in Guyana, to which the PPP General-Secretary stated that, to date, no hotel has failed. He referred to the Princess Hotel in this regard.

“It has reinvented itself almost every time. Businessmen and investors constantly reinvest and reinvent themselves in order to make sure that their dollars work.

So I don’t think that the Marriott Hotel will be a white elephant,” he said.

Calvin Brutus is new “E” Division Commander

By Leroy Smith Present “A” Division Traffic Officer Superintendent Calvin Brutus will be posted to Linden from Monday as the new “E” Division Commander.

Calvin Brutus replaces Senior Superintendent Owen Trotz who has officially gone into retirement effective from July 18.

Sources close to the high command of the Guyana Police Force confirmed to the Guyana Chronicle that Brutus was favoured as one of the suitable persons to head the Division when the management of the Force took several things into consideration including performance on the job and the ability to get the job done.

When this newspaper contacted Superintendent Calvin Brutus last evening to confirm the posting he declined to comment on the issue and directed this publication to the Public Relations Officer of the Force.

Pressed for a yes or no answer, Brutus said that what he is very confident and sure of is that he is the ‘A’ Division Traffic Officer and should there be any adjustments to that posting, the media will be so informed by the relevant arm of the Guyana Police Force.

Calvin Brutus has come through the ranks of the Guyana Police Force serving in several capacities and has earned for himself a “a no nonsense” approach that goes with his name whenever people talk about him.

Superintendent Calvin Brutus

He was appointed ‘A’ Division Traffic Officer about four months ago when Acting Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud took over the operations of the Guyana Police Force. Brutus has been making several effective changes within the ‘A’ Division Traffic arrangement while offering tremendous support to the divisional commander Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken and his Deputy superintendent Dion Moore.

This publication has learnt that the various areas of service by Brutus in the Force was instrumental in the selection process including his stint as Deputy Commander

for “B” Division for a short period.

Superintendent Calvin Brutus also served the Guyana Police Force in the areas of general duties in ‘B’ and ‘C’ Divisions, acted as Sub- Division Officer for several Divisions within the Force, Officer in Charge of several stations, serving in the Tactical Services Unit and is also a graduate from the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Sutton who worked as the Personal Assistant to former Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell and who is presently acting as the Deputy Commander of the “E” Division will remain in the Division and continue to serve in that capacity.

Contacted last evening, several junior and senior members of the Force when

asked about the move to place Brutus in the Division, said they believe the move was a wise one by Commissioner Seelall Persaud.

One officer even pointed out that looking across the command level of the Force there have been several vibrant young men placed to head the Division and thus far they have been performing in a manner that has caused the Force to feel confident with them and this promotes the thinking for even more young officers to be placed in key positions of the Force.

The Guyana Police Force is modernising its operations and several changes have been ongoing. Since Acting Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud took over the helm of the organisation there have been several key reshuffling and reposting.

AFC councillor Naithram placed on $500,000 bail Alliance For Change (AFC) Regional Councillor of the Region 2 Democratic Council (RDC), Mr. Naithram, was placed on $30,000 bail last Monday when he appeared before Essequibo Magistrate Sunil Scarce in the Charity court to answer to a charge of indecent exposure to the public.

Police allege that on July 4th, during an

unlawful protest on the Land of Plenty public road, the Opposition councillor exposed his genitals to the public.

Naithram pleaded not guilty to the charge, and will have to return to court on August 5th, when the case will be called again. He was represented by Attorney at Law Hemraj Rajkumar.

(Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Three sugar factories begin operations for the second crop -others to begin in another two weeks

By Vanessa Narine THE second sugar crop is underway with three factories having started operations - Rose Hall, Blairmont and Wales.

This was according to the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) Human Resource Director, Mr. Jairam Pitam, who added that the other

estates will begin grinding in another two weeks.

The Corporation’s operations cover several estates on the East Coast of Demerara, the West Coast and West Bank of Demerara and Berbice: Pitam told the Guyana Chronicle that to date the labour force turnout is on the “low side” with approx-

imately only 55 per cent of workers on duty.

“The crop has just started, so we are expecting that the attendance rates will gain momentum. We expect it to pick up as the crop progresses,” Pitam said.

Asked about the factories’ operational capacity, the Human Resources Manager added that factory mainte-

nance works have been completed at all the estates and there have been no reported problems in this regard.

Sugar production came in at a dismal 186,500 tonnes for 2013 but this year’s target has been set at 219,000 tonnes with the first crop production being about 80,000 tonnes..

Guyana has been taking steps to turn the sugar industry around and hopes to meet the 300,000 tonnes target soon, with a projection that the sector will reach its 400,000 tonnes goal by 2020.

Additionally, a $6B allocation, in the 2014 Budget, for GuySuCo was approved by the National Assembly.

The $6B is expected to cover expenditures that include: mechanisation, through the conversion of 2,500 hectares of land to be suitable for mechanical operations, which will be done at a cost of $1.1B; tillage and replanting of 9,200 hectares, both efforts being consistent with improving cane production

and yield, which will be done at a cost $1B; factory upgrading of all sugar estates, including Skeldon, at a cost of $2B; and works to field infrastructure to improve field to factory access and purchasing of equipment, excavators, bell loaders, tractors, etc. to account for the remainder of the allocation.

Despite its challenges, the industry, according to Government, remains relevant to the health of the national economy. In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 per cent of total exports valued at US$112.2M and the industry contributed 3.9 per cent of the country’s GDP.

Another cousins’ love affair ends in suicide at Charity Another love affair between two cousins ended in tragedy when 23-year-old Rawl Cornelius of Charity, Essequibo Coast committed suicide after a love affair with his 17-year-old cousin was rejected by her parents.

Cornelius was said to be madly in love with his cousin, and ingested poison at his lover ’s home one week ago after their love affair was rejected by the girl’s parents. He was rushed to and admitted at the Charity hospital where he succumbed after a sixday battle.

His death last Saturday plunged the community of Charity into shock and

grief, and left the other partner psychologically shattered and in emotional pain, needing the intervention of counsellors to overcome her trauma.

Police are investigating the incident.

O n l y re c e n t l y, t w o cousins of Bush Lot village, Essequibo Coast, who were said to be madly in love, ingested a quantity of poison after their parents rejected their love affair.

Both teenagers were admitted to the Suddie Hospital and fought for their lives for several days, but the female party, merely 13 years old, eventually succumbed. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Aries - March 21 - April 19 That decision you've been trying to make, regarding a certain someone who's just ambled back into your life? Think about it -- especially if you've 'replaced' them with someone a lot more wonderful and a lot more trustworthy. And don't make too much of it. Your toughest problem now is to decide what will make you happiest -- and if you're honest with yourself, that won't be hard.

Taurus - April 20 - May 20 Ready for just one more red-hot dose of passion? Sure, that doesn't sound too hard to take for a sign as sensual and earthy as yours. Of course, you may need to fight off a slew of admirers, including one who actually had the nerve to stand you up not too long ago. Is it time for payback, or are you still interested? Make up your mind now, before they call, because you know they will.

Gemini - May 21 - June 21 Your sign has always been known for magnetism. When you walk into a room, it's quite odd for you to leave without several phone numbers -- none of which you had to ask for. How does that happen? It's just what you're made of: Pure, earthy sensuality. At the moment, your ability to attract others is even more potent, and while taking this statement out for a test-ride may be tempting, try to resist. Be merciful.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22 You're been in an extremely assertive, rebellious and willful mood lately, especially when it comes to partners -- oh, and your friends, too. Does this mean you're really done putting up with a certain person who's been irritating you for some time now?

Even that person who's just re-entered your life? Sure does. Just say what's on your mind. It's always the very best way to handle any situation, and you know it.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 This could be a wistful, romantic kind of day -- and that's right up your alley. Oh, and here's a surprise: If you don't get a call from the person you've been seeing for a little while now, don't be too upset about it. A voice from the past may be on the other end when the phone rings -- or you may be moved to make a call like that yourself. Why wait? If you want to see someone you've missed, pick up the phone.

Virgo - August 23 - September 22 Get ready, because someone you never expected to hear from again may be preparing to dial your number, or tap at your door. So even if you'd planned to kick back, relax and catch some late-night TV, once they arrive, you probably won't be able to even think about sitting still, much less watching television alone. Just don't allow yourself to get over-amped when they call. Stay calm, decide what to do and how to handle it. Above all else, don't make it too easy for them.

Libra - September 23 - October 22 Okay, so they've called. Again. And you really, really want to see them. In the long run, what you want right now really doesn't matter. When it comes to one-to-one relationships -- which just so happen to be your specialty -- you really shouldn't spend even an hour of your time with someone you know you won't be able to trust in the future. There's one very special person out there looking for you, and if you're smart, you'll wait to go forward, and leave the past where it belongs.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 The powers that be have tossed quite the dilemma your way. The good news is it involves someone you miss -- someone you've been missing dreadfully for a good, long time. Once you bump into them or hear their voice on the phone, force yourself to calm down. Content yourself with just working like crazy around your home. You know how you are when you're mulling things over, and keeping busy with mindless tasks is the best way to make your decision.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 20 You've been quite the sociable creature lately, for just about the entire week -- and for quite a while before that, too. Well, don't expect to kick back and be alone tonight.

The universe has a surprise guest behind Door Number Three, and you'll probably choose it. See if there's still anything between you two. Spend the evening together, and pay attention to subtle signals. For example: Have they really changed, or is it all just an act?

Capricorn - December 21 - January 19 Someone who either stood you up or outright left you in the lurch has decided to pop back into your life, asking for a second shot at the title. You may be a bit tongue-tied, which is odd, but don't worry about it. It's the universe's way of insisting that you think before you smile, hug them and ask them to come back for good. Be smart -- as smart as you are when it comes to business.

Aquarius - January 20 - February 18 The consequences of speaking your mind with blunt honesty haven't ever deterred you from telling the truth. So when someone from the past arrives and expects you to be nice, they'll be in for quite the surprise -- especially if the relationship ended because of something disreputable they deliberately did to you. Needless to say, keeping quiet, no matter what the consequences, may be even more difficult for you now. Don't even try. Let 'em have it!

Pisces - February 19 - March 20 Get out your cheque book, credit cards and ATM cards -- and all the accompanying statements. Do that before you decide to wreak any more havoc on them -- even if it is because the one who got away has called. Impressing them would be nice, but get all those emotional issues settled before you think about all that.

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Guyana into Boys ...

From Backpage nals of the individuals to Khamal three games to love but today Shomari won the first game 11-6. Khamal took the second game by a similar 11-6 score.

The third game proved to be the crucial game.

Shomari served for the game at 11-10 but Khamal held his nerve and won the next three points to take the game 13-11. The fourth game was also close throughout but Khamal finally won it 11-8 to win the match three games to one.

Alex Cheeks was next up against Under-15 Champion Shemane Griffith and was no match, losing in straight games 5-11, 2-11, 3-11.

The Girls final will take place at 09:00hrs tomorrow when Guyana will come up against Trinidad & Tobago and at 12:00hrs the Boys team will clash with Jamaica in the final.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

England, India finely poised after Ballance ton

By Josh Reich LONDON, England (Reuters) - England’s Gary Ballance scored his second Test century as the second Test against India sat evenly-poised following a sweltering day’s play at Lord’s yesterday.

Having dismissed the visitors for 295 on a pitch that appears to be getting easier to bat on, England reached 219 for six at the close of day two.

Liam Plunkett (4) and Matt Prior (2) will look to reach India’s total today should the predicted poor weather hold off, while the tourists will be desperate to take a lead into their second innings.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar

… Cook falls for 10 as batting woes continue was the pick of the Indian bowlers, getting rid of captain Alastair Cook and Sam Robson before lunch and Ian Bell after the break.

The hosts also lost Joe Root before Ballance and Moeen, two of England’s success stories in what has been a tough period after series defeats by Australia and Sri Lanka, combined to good effect.

They put on 98 for the fifth wicket, having come together with their side in trouble at 113 for four.

BALLANCE PROSPERS While others in En-

gland’s order struggle, Zimbabwe-born Ballance continues to prosper at number three, scoring two centuries and two half-centuries in his last five turns at the crease.

He hit 15 boundaries in total, reaching three figures off 186 balls when he flicked Stuart Binny through the onside.

After lofting the first ball he faced to the fence, Moeen showed commendable patience in supporting Ballance before being trapped lbw by part-time spinner Murali Vijay for 32.

Ballance fell shortly af-

ter the new ball was taken, well caught down the leg side by Mahendra Singh Dhoni to become Kumar’s fourth wicket.

“To score a hundred at Lord’s is amazing really, I can’t think of anything better than that,” Ballance, who was pictured in British media topless at a Nottingham bar after the drawn first Test, told a news conference.

“It’s been an interesting week, I didn’t really expect it, it’s nice to score runs and put ourselves back in a decent position.

“I did not see it coming, it was a bit embarrassing to be honest, I was probably a bit naive. I didn’t break any rules and was just having fun after a Test match. I’ll learn from that and probably won’t be doing that again.

“It’s great to score runs, and I think even better after what happened.”

COOK STRUGGLE Question marks remain, however, over the form of Cook, who has not passed three figures in over a year and has now scored 93 runs in six Test innings against Sri Lanka and India this season after this latest failure.

He looked comforta b l e a t t h e c r e a s e b efore nibbling at a ball from the accurate Kumar that was caught by Dhoni behind the stumps, a combination of poor footwork and lack of conviction contributing to his downfall.

“He’ll obviously be disappointed not getting a score today, but he’ll keep working hard and keep trying to put those performances in, I ’ m s u re i t w i l l b e a matter of time before he gets a big score,” Ballance said of his skipper.

Fellow opener Sam Robson’s determination to fling the bat at a ball from Kumar saw him off for 17, while Ian Bell was taken by surprise by a delivery that

Gary Ballance celebrates his maiden Test century against India on the second day at Lord’s.

NDIA first innings (o/n 290-9) M. Vijay c Ballance b Plunkett 24 S. Dhawan c Ballance b Anderson 7 C. Pujara b Stokes 28 V. Kohli c Prior b Anderson 25 A. Rahane c and b Anderson 103 MS Dhoni c Prior b Broad 1 R. Jadeja lbw Moeen 3 S. Binny lbw Anderson 9 B. Kumar b Broad 36 M. Shami c Cook b Stokes 19 I. Sharma not out 12 Extras: (nb-1, b-17, lb-10) 28 Total: (all out, 91.4 overs) 295 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-48, 3-86, 4-113, 5-123, 6-128, 7-145, 8-235, 9-275.

Bowling: Anderson 23-7-60-4,

jagged in and caught him on the glove, catches being taken by Dhoni and Jadeja respectively.

Joe Root was starting to look comfortable before he was given out lbw to spinner Ravindra Jadeja despite getting an inside edge.

“It’s a great thing to get four wickets here but the more important thing is to get them out as early as possible tomorrow,” Kumar said.

“We had a plan, but having said that, if you’ve got a supportive wicket especially then you have to

Broad 22-5-79-2, Plunkett 15-5-51-1 (nb-1), Stokes 17.4-5-40-2, Moeen 14-2-38-1.

ENGLAND first innings A. Cook c Dhoni b Kumar 10 S. Robson c Dhoni b Kumar 17 G. Ballance c Dhoni b Kumar 110 I. Bell c Jadeja b Kumar 16 J. Root lbw Jadeja 13 Moeen Ali lbw Vijay 32 L. Plunkett not out 4 M. Prior not out 2 Extras: (w-2, nb-3, lb-9, b-1) 15 Total (for six wickes, 86 overs) 219 Fall of wickets: 1-22, 2-31, 3-70, 4-113, 5-211, 6-214.

Bowling (to date): Kumar 23-946-4, Shami 15-5-33-0 (w-1, nb-2), Sharma 17-5-32-0 (w-1, nb-1), Binny 10-0-45-0, Jadeja 18-1-41-1, Vijay 3-0-12-1

be more disciplined than normal.”

Earlier India’s first innings lasted only ten balls of the morning session before Ben Stokes had Shami caught by Cook, his 100th Test catch, with five runs added to the overnight score.

The quick breakthrough was scant consolation for the hosts, who had India at 145 for seven just after tea on Thursday before Ajinkya Rahane (103) combined with the lower order to ensure their bowlers had a total to defend.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

33

Defiant Mathews keeps Steyn and S. Africa at bay … Pacer Dale Steyn grabs five-for 50.

(REUTERS) - - Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews weathered a fiery spell of reverse swing bowling from Dale Steyn to take his team past the follow-on mark on the third day of the first Test against South Africa yesterday.

Mathews scored a defiant 89 off 182 balls with 14 fours and a six before, while attempting to shield the tail, he went for a slog sweep off Imran Tahir and was bowled.

Mathews and Rangana Herath shared an eighth-wicket partnership of 71 off 117 balls that saved Sri Lanka after Steyn had reduced them to 201-7 replying to South Africa’s first innings of 455-9 declared.

Herath was unbeaten on 12 at stumps having lost Suranga Lakmal for six off the last ball of the day to Morne Morkel to Quinton de Kock behind the wicket.

Sri Lanka trailed South Africa by 172 runs.

“Bowling on the sub-continent is so hard,” said Steyn after the close.

“But I kind of enjoy that challenge, and this is one of the few places in the world where I haven’t taken fivefors.

“I’m lucky - I am short, skiddy, so my bouncer doesn’t get up. And if there is a little something on the ball, whether it’s reversing or

cessive fours in an over that cost 20 runs.

Sri Lanka fought back after losing the wicket of Upul Tharanga for 83 in the afternoon session to be 182 for four wickets at tea.

The wicket of left-handed opener Tharanga, making a return to Test cricket after nearly seven years out of the

Dale Steyn takes his fifth five-for in the subcontinent. just swinging, I always have Steyn then dismissed a chance.”

Dinesh Chandimal for six Sri Lanka were rocked and Dilruwan Perera for a in the final session by Steyn duck off successive overs who picked up three wickets to claim his 23rd five-for in for eight runs off five overs, an innings as Sri Lanka slid three of them maidens, to from 190-4 to 201-7. put South Africa firmly in Chandimal pulled a short control. ball straight to Alviro PetersSteyn sent back Lahiru en at midwicket and Perera Thirimanne for 38 flashing at was caught off the inside a delivery outside off stump edge by de Kock. to present de Kock with Mathews edged Sri Lanan easy catch and ending a ka closer to getting past the threatening partnership of 54 follow-on mark by hitting with Mathews.

Morne Morkel for five suc-

Lahm stuns Germany by quitting national side

By Mark Meadows BERLIN, Germany (Reuters) - Germany captain Philipp Lahm stunned his homeland yesterday by quitting international football at the age of 30, five days after leading his side to World Cup victory in Brazil.

“During last season I made a decision to end my international career after the World Cup,” Lahm wrote in an open letter on the German football federation website.

“I shared my decision with Germany coach Joachim Loew at breakfast on Monday. I am happy and thankful that the end of my national team career coincided with winning the World Cup in Brazil.

“I have been on holiday for the past three days and here have had the quiet and time to mentally come to terms with the end of

my national team career.

A heartfelt thank you for a wonderful time!”

Lahm’s decision came as a shock to German football federation (DFB) president Wolfgang Niersbach.

“Philipp called me this morning and personally told me the news,” Niersbach said. “Very quickly into the conversation I realised that it was futile to try to change his mind.

“He was not only an outstanding player in his 10 years with the national team but always a perfect role model.

I thanked him for all that he has done for the DFB.” Lahm’s success and gravitas were such that even German Chancellor Angela Merkel commented on his decision.

“I’d like to express my respect for what he achieved with the national team,” she said.

Lahm, who picked up

the last of his 113 caps in the 1-0 World Cup final victory over Argentina on Sunday, will continue playing for club side Bayern Munich.

“There is hardly a better farewell than to be a world champion at the peak of your career,” Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said of Lahm’s retirement on the club website (www.fcbayern.de).

“But for the national team, it will not be easy to replace Lahm as a player, captain and a man.”

KLOSE DECISION Despite the old adage saying you should always go out on top, Bayern acknowledged on their website that Lahm’s decision had taken them by surprise.

Many German fans also reacted with disbelief on Twitter given Lahm’s relatively young age to quit the international scene.

side, was South Africa’s only success in the middle session.

Tharanga was beaten by a well-flighted delivery from off-spinner JP

SOUTH AFRICA first innings 455-9 declared SRI LANKA first innings (o/n 30-0) K. Silva c Philander b Steyn 8 U. Tharanga stp. de Kock b Duminy 83 K. Sangakkara b Morkel 24 M. Jayawardene lbw b Steyn 3 L. Thirimanne c de Kock b Steyn 38 A. Mathews b Tahir 89 D. Chandimal c Petersen b Steyn 6 D. Perera c de Kock b Steyn 0

Duminy as he advanced down the wicket and was stumped by de Kock after hitting 14 fours and a six in his 155-ball knock.

R. Herath not out 12 S. Lakmal c de Kock b Morkel 6 Extras: (b-4, lb-7, w-2, nb-1) 14 Total: (nine wickets, 100 overs) 283 Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-98, 3-104, 4-136, 5-190, 6-200, 7-201, 8-272, 9-283.

Bowling (to date): Steyn 21-7-50-5 (w-1), Philander 15-6-31-0 (nb-1), Morkel 17-8-45-2 (w-1), Tahir 255-74-1, Duminy 15-4-47-1, Elgar 7-1-25-0.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

Guyana’s chances good for improving Commonwealth Games medals tally

By Michael DaSilva G U YA N A f i r s t p a r ticipated at the Commonwealth Games then known as the British Empire Games in 1930, in the city of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and won two medals, a silver in the men’s high jump and a bronze in the men’s four-man rowing team.

Since then, Guyana participated in 15 other games, winning a total of 13 medals, making its overall tally 16, comprising three gold medals, five silver medals and seven bronze medals.

A young Patrick Ford at left seen with his cousin, former Commonwealth gold medalist, Winfield Braithwaite at extreme right.

Canada Games where the Guyana’s best showing country won three medwas at the 1978 Edmonton, als, a gold, a silver and a

Fraser-Pryce struggles continue, as Gatlin lights up Monaco

MONACO (CMC) – World and Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce finished down the field again but it was American Justin Gatlin who nabbed the headlines with a world-leading run in the men’s 200 metres at the Monaco Diamond League here yesterday.

Fraser-Pryce, without a victory in her last five outings finished a disappointing sixth, as American Tori Bowie took victory in the women’s 100 metres in a world-leading 10.80 seconds.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

CRICKETQUIZ CORNER

(Saturday July 19, 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 Thursday’s quiz: Guyana Amazon Warriors & Jamaica Tallawahs (2) 2013: 24; 2014: 30 Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the leading run-maker in the Limacol CPL 2013? How many runs he scored?

(2)Which two were a part of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team in the LCPL last year but are absent in 2014?

Martin Guptill; Mohammed Hafeez; James Franklin; Lendl Simmons; Narsingh Deonarine Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Jamaican Veronica Campbell-Brown raced to second, dipping below 11 seconds to clock 10.96 seconds while Murielle Ahoure of Cote D’Ivoire finished third in a season-best time of 10.97 seconds.

Fraser-Pryce, who has struggled with a foot injury in recent months, still managed to post a season-best time of 11.01, improving on the 11.10 she ran in Glasgow last weekend.

However, it was the resurgent Gatlin who took centre stage, clocking 19.68 seconds – the joint-eighth quickest of all-time. The time was also a new record at the Monaco meet and it smashed his previous personal best of 19.86 seconds, set 12 years ago.

Jamaican Nickel Ashmeade was second in 19.99 seconds while Frenchman Christophe Lemaitre finished third in a season-best 20.08 seconds.

There was more success for Jamaican Kaliese Spencer who captured the 400 metres hurdles in 54.09 seconds, ahead of Americans Georganne Moline (54.73 seconds) and Tate Cassandra (55.07) who finished second and third respectively.

The victory for Spencer, the world-leader in the event, was her fourth of the Diamond League series.

bronze.

For this year’s Games which begins on July 23 in the city of Glasgow, Scotland, Guyana’s chances of improving its medals tally are very good; since most of the athletes selected to represent the Land of Many Waters have vast experience in their respective disciplines.

In the squash competition, Guyana stand a better than good chance of medalling through world number 19-ranked Nicolette Fernandes, who has been campaigning in Europe for more than eight years and who has come up against the world’s top women contenders.

The other squash team members are Alexander Arjoon and Sunil Seth who have both been performing outstandingly recently.

Carl Ince is the manager/ coach The table tennis team is an experienced one comprising Christopher Franklyn, Paul David, Shemar Britton, Idi Lewis, Trenance Lowe, Jody-Ann Blake and Nathalie Cummings with Godfrey Munroe as manager/coach.

Lowe and Blake are exceptional players and they have both won medals at the Regional level.

Swimming starts at a disadvantage as Niall Roberts who was selected

for the Games withdrew through injury and the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association is yet to name a replacement. The other swimmer is the inexperienced Onika George with Sean Baksh as manager/coach.

A lot is expected from track athlete Winston George who represented Guyana at the 2012 London Olympics and performed creditably.

The other track athletes are Adam Harris and Stephen James with Kenrick Smith as coach.

Guyana teams have had reasonable success in athletics over the years, starting from the 1934 Games when Philip Aaron won a gold medal in the men’s 800-yard run.

The country won another gold medal at the 2006 Manchester, Eng l a n d G a m e s t h ro u g h Aliann Pompey in the women’s 400-metre. She a l s o w o n a 4 0 0 - m e t re silver medal at the 2010 Delhi, India Games, but this was after finishing third and the original second-place finisher, Folashade Abugan of Nigeria, was disqualified for using steroids.

In 1978 James Wren-Gilkes won a silver medal in the men’s 200-metre at the Edmonton, Canada Games.

The rifle shooting team,

comprising Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaithe and Ransford Goodluck, have vast experience in the sport and have competed at several meets in Europe.

Much is expected from them.

T h e m e n ’s c y c l i n g team comprising Alanzo Greaves, Geron Williams, Scott Savory, Raynauth Jeffrey and Marlon Williams is a young one. These athletes will surely do their best.

The exposure will serve them well in the future.

They will be accompanied

by Dwayne Gibbs as manager/coach.

One female cyclist, Clair Fraser-Green who is based in London will also be a part of the cycling contingent and she will be coached by her husband Shaun Green.

Professional boxers Theresa London, Eon Bancroft and Dennis Thomas, along with amateur boxer Imran Khan, make up Guyana’s contingent at the Games and their chances of medalling are uncertain.

Their manager/coach is Terrence Poole.

Guyana’s best boxing performance at the Games was back in 1978 when Winfield Braithwaite defeated Scotsman James Douglas in the final of their junior welterweight to take the gold in the Edmonton, Canada Games.

Junior Jaguars draw 1-1 with Barbados in CFU U-17 opener THANKS to a 61st minute goal from the ever goal-hungry K e n o Wa s h i n g t o n , Guyana drew level 1-1 with Barbados in their first game of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU).

Playing in the Dominican Republic, after a goalless first half, Barbados registered the game’s first goal in the 49th minute Guyana goalscorer off the boot of Antoine Keno Washington

Greaves.

However, coach Bryan Joseph was able to motivate his troops and found luck through the ever-improving Washington.

With the win, each team earned a point and Guyana will now focus on playing Antigua and Barbuda tomorrow, to be followed by a clash with the Dominican Republic on July 22.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 19, 2014

35

4TH DIGICEL INTER-SECONDARY SCHOOL FOOTBALL C’SHIPS

St George’s edge Charlestown in thriller

By Calvin Roberts DEFENDING Georgetown zone champions St George’s Secondary staved off a strong challenge from their nemesis Charlestown Secondary, to come away with a 2-1 victory, while setting up a zone final date with Chase Academy tomorrow in this year’s fourth annual Digicel Inter-Secondary School Football Championships.

Playing at the Guyana Defence Force Base Camp Ayanganna ground, St George’s got two first-half goals from Okeri Codrington (17th) and Adolph George (35th) to all but seal the win, despite seeing their opponents, who had defeated the highly favoured Georgetown Technical Institute the previous day, get a solitary strike from Omari James in the 66th minute.

At the Beterverwagting ground, Chase inflicted a 4-0 defeat on East Ruimveldt Secondary, with Daniel Ross (21st), Ozeal Small (33rd), Kareem Knights (53rd) and

Shamar Barrow (64th) finding the back of the net for the tournament’s debutants.

St George’s and Charlestown started the contest cautiously, as both sides looked to assert themselves in the wet conditions, with water settling in approximately 75% of the playing area. Both coaches shouted instructions and tactics from the sidelines.

A Robby McCloggan shot from inside the box, went just wide of Charlestown’s uprights in the 15th minute of play, before Codrington stepped up to take a free kick from just outside the box, after McCloggan was brought down, beating Marvin Carter to his right even though he had a four-man wall set up.

Spurred on by the goal, St George’s started an all-out attack on their opponents, with Codrington and Quincy Lawrence traversing the wings like the good old days of Guyana Airways Corporation, creating trouble for Charlestown’s defence and Carter in goal.

… to face Chase Academy in zone final tomorrow

Chronicle Sport photographer Delano Williams was on hand to catch St George’s Secondary School’s Quincy Lawrence (white) attempt to make his way past these three players from Charlestown Secondary, during their semifinal matchup yesterday.

A Lawrence shot from the same spot where Codrington took his free kick and scored, was parried for a corner by Carter and shortly after, the eventual champions got their second goal, when a long ball from Lawrence found an

Junior CASA Championships

Guyana into Boys and Girls finals THE Guyana Boys and Girls teams both made it into their respective team finals at the Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Junior Championships after both securing 3-2 victories yesterday when the competition continued in Hamilton, Bermuda.

The Guyanese Boys, led by Nyron Joseph and Jean-Claude Jeffrey, will play against Jamaica’s Boys team today, after defeating the Barbados Boys team in yesterday’s semi-finals, while Guyana’s Girls will go head-tohead against the Trinidad and Tobago Girls team.

The Girls team blazed their way into the final with a win over the Jamaican team. Wins from Mia Mahfood and fivetime Caribbean champion Alyssa Mullings were not enough for the Jamaicans to overcome Guyana, as wins from Rebecca Low, Victoria Arjoon and Akeila Wiltshire grounded Guyana’s victory.

Arjoon had an easy 3-0 win against Ashley Lynch defeating her 11-4, 11-6, 11-3, in the team’s opening match. Reigning national Girls’ Under-19 champion Wiltshire had a much more difficult time disposing of Mary Jo Mahfood, with whom she had clashed ear-

lier this week in the Girls’ Under-19 semi-finals of the individual event. Despite an earlier 3-0 win against Mahfood in the individual event, Wiltshire was made to work arduously this time around as Mahfood led her to a tough five-set battle.

Taking the first two sets 11-7, 11-5, Wiltshire must have thought of winning another straight set but Mahfood had other plans.

Mahfood, in a come-frombehind upset took the next two sets 11-7, 11-8 sending the game to that decisive fifth set. However, Wiltshire showed that she was not done yet and it was an easy 11-3 set that cemented Wiltshire’s triumph.

In other matches it was Guyana’s Taylor Fernandes who had the misfortune of coming up against Mullings, after she replaced Guyana’s Larissa Wiltshire who was out due to injury. Mullings, fresh off her 2014 Girls’ Under-17 champion, was not about to jeopardize her title and collected a straight set 11-9, 11-2, 11-8 win from Fernandes.

Also feeling the sting of a loss was Makeda Harding, who put up a good fight but went down 11-2, 11-9, 7-11, 5-11, 2-11 against Girls’ Un-

der-13 finalist Mia Mahfood.

With the score even at two, it came down to the match-up between Rebecca Low and Sarah Conway.

Representing Guyana, Low had defeated Conway earlier this week when the two faced off in a Girls’ Under-15 quarter-final match in which Low had prevailed then, and Low again yesterday finished off Conway 11-5, 11-4, 8-11, 13-11.

First on court were the Under-19 No 2 strings and Nyron Joseph easily took care of Dean Straker winning 11-4, 12-10, 11-6.

The match of the day was then to follow. Benjamin Mekdeci was matched against Benjamin Griffith. Mekdeci won the first game fairly comfortably 11-6 but then dropped a close second game 8-11. Mekdeci won the third game 11-7 but the heat of the court was taking its toll and when he lost another close fourth game 8-11 it seemed as if Mekdeci was in a lot of trouble.

He seemed to re-focus in the fifth game but the game moved back and forth with one player taking the lead then the other coming back.

Benjamin Griffith was the first to reach match ball at 10-9 but Ben Mekdeci was giving

unmarked McCloggan.

Displaying an unselfish attitude, the diminutive striker worked his way into the box before making a gem of a pass to Adolph George, who beat Carter to his right with a well-placed shot in the 35th

his all. He saved this match ball and Griffith had several other match balls but all were saved by Mekdeci. Ben Mekdeci finally got a match ball of his own 14-13 but could not convert it. He then also had several match balls but finally he was then able to win the game 17-15 and the match three games to two.

It was then left up the Jean-Claude Jeffrey to secure victory for Guyana.

Jeffrey, who was unable to play in the individual Under-19 event because of school commitments in Canada, had only arrived in Bermuda yesterday midday and had gone straight on to the court to win his match against Nku Patrick of Trinidad & Tobago in the final group game.

Today he was matched up against Stewart St John.

He easily won the first game 11-3 and then won the second game 11-7 but the heat of the court was taking its toll but JeanClaude still managed to take the third game 12-10.

This meant that the Guyana Boys Team had secured their place in the final as they had secured the first three matches in the tie.

Shomari Wiltshire then took to the court against two-time U n d e r- 1 3 C h a m p i o n Khamal Cumberbatch.

He had lost in the semi-fi-

See Page 31

minute, to spark off celebrations among his teammates on and off the field of play.

Resuming the second half with a comfortable two-goal lead, many felt that St George’s would have relaxed and allowed their opponents, who had the Atlantic Ocean breeze on their backs, to bring the game to them, but that was not so.

Several attacks were made at Charlestown’s goal area and were it not for the sporadic efforts of Carter, along with James, Aroydy Bradford and Trevor Jones, the margin of victory for St George’s would have been larger than the final result indicated.

Bradford worked his way deep inside St. George’s half during the 50th minute of play after receiving a caution, but the combined effort of Codrington and Lawrence, prevented him from getting a shot off, while a Carter free kick was well handled by Royston Dublin in goal for St George’s.

However, James reduced the deficit to one in the 66th minute, when he collected a pass from Jones, moved to the left of the box and beat Dublin on his far post with a wellplaced shot, to re-energise his teammates.

Certainly they were revived through James’ goal,

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but St George’s were bent on maintaining their lead and status as champions, which they managed to do when the final whistle was blown, in the presence of the Alpha United team, who were waiting to use the facility for a practice session ahead of the CFU Club Championships encounter.

St George’s will now put their Georgetown zone championship title on the line when they go up against Chase at the same venue from 14:00hrs tomorrow, with the winners advancing to the quarterfinals of the tournament.

The overall winner of this year’s tournament will collect $1M which will go towards a project within their school that will be beneficial to the students. Members of the teams who reached the quarterfinals, including coaches and teachers, will all receive Smartphones.

Also for this year’s tournament, the second-, thirdand fourth-placed finishers are set to receive $600 000, $400 000 and $250 000, which will all go towards a project in the respective schools, while all zone champions will be rewarded with a prize of $100 000 that will go towards a project in the school, even if they do not advance to the overall final.

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Amazon Warriors hunting third win against Zouks today … Ahead of clash with Jamaica Tallawahs tomorrow

Let’s go Sunil, bamboozle them again! A pumped-up Sunil Narine celebrates after bowling the first maiden over in a T20 Super Over contest last Thursday night, when the Guyana Amazon Warriors defeated Red Steel. (Photo courtesy Getty Images)

By Calvin Roberts GUYANA’S franchise team in this year’s Limacol Caribbean

Premier League, the Amazon Warriors, will be looking to make it three out of three, when they go up against St Lucia

Zouks from 16:00hrs today, in the seventh match of this year’s tournament at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

This match will precede their all-important and mosttalked-about clash against defending champions and the team which defeated them to take the inaugural title last year - Christopher Gayle-led Jamaica Tallawahs - tomorrow the same venue, same time.

However, for today’s clash, the Denesh Ramdin-led Amazon Warriors lineup will be looking to improve in certain areas, in order to enter tomorrow’s encounter brimming with confidence, even though they scored backto-back wins over Antigua Hawksbills and Red Steel.

The Warriors line-up is boosted with four Trinidadians which could be the difference but despite that, it is expected that these two franchises will continue the tradition of intense rivalry as was the case when they met in last year’s tournament.

The question which will be asked by all and sundry is: ‘Will the mystery sur-

rounding Sunil Narine be solved by the Darren Sammy-led Zouks lineup?’ since the Red Steel were melted away by him in a Super Over contest last Thursday night.

Narine – not unexpectedly – is the most potent weapon against any team in this format of the game and the fact that he himself has admitted it is strange batsmen around the world are not picking him, underlines his and the Amazon Warriors’ superiority for today’s contest and tomorrow’s.

Time and time again, whether it is for Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies, Kolkata Knight Riders or Amazon Warriors, Narine has come in at various stages of an innings and has invariably delivered every single time both through penetration and economy.

He is the undisputed leader of the bowling pack, but around him is a group of exceptionally driven and gifted individuals, who are stars in their own right, so no matter what total their batsmen put up, they have the resources to successfully defend, once used correctly.

The local team’s fast bowling artillery consists of debutant Ronsford Beaton, New Zealand’s James Neesham, Jamaican Krishmar Santokie, along with the seam bowling trio of Christopher Barnwell, Lendl Simmons and Navin Stewart, with Pakistan’s Mohammed Hafeez lending invaluable support to Narine in the spin department.

Left-arm spinner Ve e r a s a m m y P e r m a u l , off-spinners Mohammed Hafeez and Steven Jacobs are expected to play key roles in support to Narine, even as the Amazon Warriors’ batting strength is formidable, with seven players from the squad with international game experience.

In Sammy, the Zouks has a leader who never says die

irrespective of the situation as he always believes in himself and his teammates until the final ball is bowled and with reputable players of the calibre of Roelofven Der Merwe, Brad Hodge, Shane Shillingford and Andre Fletcher, anything is possible.

They were the bottom-placed team in last year’s tournament and certainly will be looking to improve their performance in this year’s championship, with Sammy receiving support from the above-mentioned players, along with Sohail Tanvir, Liam Sebastien and Gary Mathurin.

While England’s Test discard Kevin Pietersen is yet to make an appearance for the Zouks this year, when he does, he will be the biggest factor for the team in this year’s tournament. Hence it is good for them to accumulate as many points as possible now, so with his inclusion they can push for a final-four spot.

They are yet to chalk up a win in this year’s edition, having gone under to the Tallawahs in their first game, with Gayle etching his name in the record books with the first LCPL ton - an unbeaten 111 scored off 63 balls with 10 sixes and five fours.

Meanwhile, the Tallawahs, like their opponents for tomorrow’s game the Amazon Warriors, are leading the points table with four points from two matches, making tomorrow’s encounter all the more exciting in keeping with the Carnival-like atmosphere for the tournament.

The Gayle versus Narine challenge is a must-see, while many will be looking to see how Jermaine Blackwood, who has been in tremendous form in other formats of the game this year, compete against the wiles of Hafeez along with the swing and deceptions of Santokie.

Guyana’s Commonwealth Games team wing out for Glasgow WITH the aim of bettering their previous showing at the Commonwealth Games, Guyana’s contingent departed yesterday, bound for Glasgow, Scotland, to compete at the event which occurs every four years.

Guyana will compete in the disciplines of squash, table tennis, athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, and rifle shooing.

Virtually the best athletes from every single sport were selected on the team the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) is banking on to return home with more than just memories of the games.

The games will begin on July 23 in the Scottish city and Guyana, who first participated at the Commonwealth Games, then known as the British Empire Games in 1930, in the city of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, will be looking to add to their

current medal haul which stands at 15.

Guyana have won three gold, five silver and seven bronze medals.

The three gold medals came through Aliann Pompey (400m Manchester England 2002), Winfield Braithwaite (boxing, Edmonton Canada 1978) and Philip Edwards (800 yards run) in 1934 when the games were held under the British Empire.

At the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India, Pompey once again was the only athlete to walk away from the event with a podium finish when she placed second in the Women’s 400M. World number 19-ranked Nicolette Fernandes, will lead Guyana’s Squash team, which also features Alexander Arjoon and Sunil Seth and will have Carl Ince as their manager/coach.

The table tennis team is made up of Christopher Franklyn, Paul David, Shemar Britton, Idi Lewis, Trenance Lowe, Jody-Ann Blake and Nathalie Cummings with Godfrey Munroe as manager/coach.

Guyana will be without

swimmer Niall Roberts who was forced to withdraw due to injury. The other swimmer is the inexperienced Onika George with Sean Baksh as manager/coach.

Winston George, who represented Guyana at the 2012 London Olympics, is

considered as one of the athletes who have what it takes to medal at the games and along with Adam Harris and Stephen James will make up the Guyana track team.

In the discipline of rifle shooting, Guyana will be depending on the bull’s eye aim

Guyana’s Commonwealth Games team before they departed yesterday. (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

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of the experienced Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite and Ransford Goodluck.

Cyclists Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams, Alanzo Greaves, Geron Williams, Scott Savory and Raynauth Jeffrey are expected to pick up the first medals at the Games, and always with their manager/coach Dwayne Gibbs, all eyes will be on the contingent.

One female cyclist, Clair Fraser-Green who is based in London will also be a part of the cycling contingent and she will be coached by her husband Shaun Green.

Female boxing sensation Theresa London along with Eon Bancroft and Dennis Thomas and the exciting Imran Khan, will be looking to punch their names into Guyana’s sports history books when they step into the ring in Scotland. Their manager/ coach is Terrence Poole.

SATURDAY, JULY 19, 2014