Guyana chronicle 22 04 14 by Guyana Chronicle

GUYANA No. 103805 TUESDAY APRIL 22, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

First shipment of paddy about to sail to Venezuela

PRICE: $60

INCLUDING VAT

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President mingles with Guyanese ‘DJ Casual’ - as they enjoy kite

flying activities

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nursing gunshot wounds

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Curtis ‘DJ Casual’ Armstrong

Mayor Green in hot water after sabotaging revenue collection Page 11 Port Kaituma man shoots wife dead before Page 3 turning gun on himself Rodney COI hearings begin today Page 4 President Donald Ramotar has a go at flying a kite at the Number 63 Beach, Corentyne yesterday.

Jamaicans busted with marijuana at CJIA Page 12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

First shipment of paddy about to sail to Venezuela

- after delays due to unrest in neighbouring country

Bulk bags of paddy for shipping to Venezuela THE first shipment of about 6,000 tonnes of paddy due for Venezuela, began loading yesterday at the Muneshwers’ Wharf in Georgetown.

Workers loading paddy destined for Venezuela onto a vessel at Muneshwers’ Wharf, yesterday (Kawise Wishart photo) Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that this, the first shipment for 2014, is expected to sail either last

night or early this morning. He said another shipment is expected to depart in two days from the same facility. About 100,000 tonnes of rice and paddy are expected

to be shipped to the neighbouring country by the end of April. It is anticipated that a maximum of two shipments per week will be exported until November, later this year. A total of 200,000 tonnes of rice and paddy are due to be exported for the period to the Spanish-speaking neighbouring country. This year’s initial rice shipments were delayed due to the civil unrest in Venezuela. Minister Ramsammy said about 400,000 tonnes of rice and paddy are to be exported for this year. The rice pact was initiated in 2010 between former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez. The agreement aims to strengthen food security in both countries. In late 2011, Government signed a US$54 million agreement with its oil-rich western neighbour to supply 50,000 metric tonnes of paddy at US$520 per metric tonne, and 20,000 metric tonnes of white rice at US$800 per metric tonne. In 2013, US$130 million worth of rice was exported to Venezuela.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

‘DJ Casual’, Sean Hinds nursing gunshot wounds

CURTIS Armstrong, the popular 34-year-old radio announcer and disc jockey who operates under the name ‘DJ Casual’, as well as Sean Hinds, were reportedly shot in the Car Park at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara. The Guyana Police Force, in a statement, said the incident occurred at about 04:10 hrs yesterday. Armstrong, who is also Digicel’s Brand Ambassador in Guyana, hails from Guyhoc Park, Georgetown while Hinds, 30, is from North Ruimveldt, also in the City. Police report that the incident occurred at the Easter Fest Concert featuring international artistes Jah Cure and Sean Paul. ‘DJ Casual’ was reported to have been involved in a heated argument over ice, and subsequent scuffle, with two men in the car park at the

- following shooting incident at National Stadium Stadium. The Police said Hinds intervened in that argument, and one of the two men pulled out a firearm and shot Armstrong to his abdomen and left hand, and Sean Hinds to his left foot, before the duo escaped. Both Curtis Armstrong and Sean Hinds are currently in-patients at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). This newspaper un derstands that ‘DJ Casual’ underwent surgery at the GPHC, and came out successful shortly after 10:00 hrs yesterday. His relatives, who were all awaiting word of his condition, reported that the bullets missed all his vital organs in exiting his body. Upon hearing of the shooting, yesterday, Digicel

Curtis ‘DJ Casual’ Armstrong has been hospitalised after sustaining gunshot injuries yesterday.

Guyana Head of Marketing, Jacqueline James, rushed to the GPHC, and later spoke with doctors who had performed the surgery on ‘DJ Casual’. She said he was reportedly in recovery after his operation, and she was hoping he would fully recover from his injuries. ‘DJ Casual’ hosts the live ‘Digicel Morning Vibes’ radio programme which runs from 06:00 hrs to 09:00 hrs every day. He is ably assisted by ‘Selector Seen Up’ and ‘Big Red’, among other radio personalities on 100.1FM Radio. It is understood that ‘DJ Casual’ had gone to get some ice, but another patron objected to this and a quarrel ensued. After the show, as DJ Casual was about to board his vehicle, the patron

confronted him again, and a heated argument erupted, which escalated, and one of the men pulled out a gun and fired several shots at Armstrong and Hinds. The gunman and his accomplice fled the scene in a Nissan Titan, but police were able to recover several spent shells. Crime Chief Leslie James and ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken could not be reached via telephone for a comment on the incident yesterday, while the promoter’s phones were turned off. DJ Casual’s girlfriend has said she is ready to give the police a statement, since she was with him when the incident occurred. Requesting anonymity, the woman told this publication that Casual’s condition is stable, and that up to the time she had last seen him, he was responding well to treatment. (Michel Outridge)

Man sustains Port Kaituma man shoots wife dead before serious injury turning gun on himself as vehicle flips on West Berbice highway TRAGEDY struck the remote North West District at Port Kaituma in Region 1 (Barima/Waini) when 62-yearold Victor Pires shot dead his reputed wife Pamela Martin, 39, before turning the weapon on himself, following a heated argument in the presence of their children at about 04:20hrs yesterday (Easter Monday). Police ranks investigating the inci-

dent found an improvised shotgun and three empty cartridges at the gruesome scene of the murder/suicide. The bodies of both Pires and Martin, who was reportedly shot to her head, are at the Port Kaituma Hospital mortuary, and police investigations are continuing. (Asif Hakim)

By Asif Hakim LUCKY to be alive, 37-year-old Seon Haynes is now warded at the Fort Wellington Hospital See page 10

The vehicle that Seon Haynes was driving.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Rodney COI hearings begin today - PNC maintains refusal to participate By Vanessa Narine THE Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (COI) hearings are slated to begin today at the Supreme Court Law Library, despite having been marred by several controversies over the Commission’s composition and its Terms of Reference (TOR). And the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is standing by its decision not to participate in the Commission of Inquiry, a decision that was made last Friday, four days before the hearings were scheduled to commence. According to the party, the decision was reached after a meeting of its Central Executive Committee. The PNCR’s position is a sticky one, given the allegations that the then PNC Government engineered Dr. Rodney’s assassination. More recently, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) announced that it will participate in the COI hearings, despite its concerns. The Union, in a statement on Sunday, noted that it has hired Civil Rights Lawyer Selwyn A. Pieters. The statement also said, “The GTUC met the commissioners when they were on their exploratory visit and expressed concerns with the

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Terms of Reference (ToR). Dr. Walter Rodney remains a national and international figure and in the present circumstance cannot be looked at as the property of a specific family or group, for he belongs to all of us, and consultation as to the way forward in arriving at the

Dr. Walter Rodney truth should have involved everyone.” The GTUC said it strongly holds the view that the TOR should have had the input of all the Members of the National Assembly since this was the forum that authorised and approved the decision for an inquiry. “…the GTUC is conscious of its role as a national organisation and guided by historical developments has

taken a decision that it will not stand idly by and allow a national commission of this nature to commence and conclude without Labour making its position known.” The Working People’s Alliance (WPA), a party founded by Dr Rodney, also expressed similar concerns. However, the party has opted to allow its members to testify as individuals at the hearings. The Commissioners during the course of the hearings are expected to examine the facts and circumstances immediately prior to, at the time of and subsequent to the death of Rodney in order to determine, as far as possible, who or what was responsible for the explosion resulting in his death. The Commissioners are to enquire into the cause of the explosion in which Rodney died, including whether it was an act of terrorism and if so who were the perpetrators. Among other things, the commissioners are to “specifically examine” the role, if any, which army officer Gregory Smith played in Rodney’s death and if so to inquire into who may have “counseled, procured, aided and or abetted” him to do so, including facilitating his departure from Guyana after Rodney’s death. MEETINGS HELD Chairman of the International Commission of Inquiry (COI) Sir Richard Cheltenham, in a prior comment, explained that meetings with the Commissioner of Police, Army Chief, political parties, Speaker of the National Assembly, Private Sector See page 11

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

President mingles with Guyanese

- as they enjoy kite flying activities

KITE flying is synonymous with Easter in Guyana, with Easter Monday being the traditional kite flying day. Guyanese yesterday came out in their thousands, and spent the day at various locations picnicking, and flying kites of all shapes, sizes and colours. Those enjoying this traditional activity at Number 63 beach, Corentyne in Region 6 and on the seawalls at Meten-Meer-Zorg in Region 3, had the pleasure of sharing the activity with President Donald Ramotar, who visited the locations yesterday. President Ramotar noted the camaraderie at both locations, where persons were relaxing and yet obviously enjoying themselves. The Head of State noted that it reflects what is taking place in society. He pointed out that people are today “doing better” and as such have more time and resources to relax and enjoy themselves. “When you walk around and see people’s faces, there is no anxiety in them; they are just totally relaxed and having a good time,” the President said. He noted that it is part of a decades-old tradition for the PPPC Government to seek to celebrate each holiday with Guyanese, “be it visiting the kite flying locations on Easter Monday or the mosque on Youman Nabi”. It has become “second nature” for the Government to want to be with its people, to engage them, to see how they are doing, be it in the bad times or good times, Mr Ramotar said. The President said being around the people and feeling their love is perhaps one of the best aspect of being a public officer. (GINA)

President Donald Ramotar greets a family picnicking at the Number 63 Beach in Corentyne, Berbice yesterday

President Donald Ramotar greeting persons at the kite flying activity at Meten-Meer-Zorg

President Donald Ramotar hoists this little lass at the Number 63 Beach as her younger siblings look on

A Region 6 resident displays his kite

A proud Region 3 father captures President Donald Ramotar with his baby daughter

EDITORIAL

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

GUYANA

AFC’s token leaders are PNC satellites

THE joint Opposition, comprising the APNU and AFC, are doing irreparable harm to Guyana and Guyanese with their continuous destructive acts and utterances. With the PNC, this is a historical reality and a trademark leadership stamp that has dragged this country through destructive maelstroms time and again. However, what is shocking and unbelievable is the positions of those who were once ensconced deep within the ranks of the governing party. They were part of the planning of developmental programmes, through the formulation of PPP/C Manifestos that they are viciously attacking today. They are joining with the party that once dragged this nation so deep into an abyss that it was unfathomable that any strategy could have restored the hopes of Guyanese and put this country back on a developmental track that facilitated economic growth and significant rankings in international developmental graphs. But Dr. Cheddi Jagan dreamed dreams and envisioned strategies that were all documented in successive PPP/C Manifestos; and so the seemingly unachievable was achieved, like a miracle, and Guyana rose again to a level where it is ranked as a middle-income economy - and here the significance of the message of Easter and rebirth of hope is the imprimatur stamped on the achievements of the PPP/C Government for this nation that catalyzed rebirth of hope in the Guyanese people. The PNC by itself could never have taken away that hope: But the AFC has empowered that destructive party to once more ride on the backs of the Guyanese people like the legendary albatross of ‘The Ancient Mariner’ fame. Now Raphael Trotman is right back in the ranks of the party in which his political roots are implanted; but the

PPP/C castoffs are trying to find relevance by joining with the very people who have oppressed and shunned them to destroy the Government of the party of Dr. Cheddi Jagan, that great patriot who carved the paths to Guyana’s freedom from colonizers and dictators. They are mere tokens being used by the PNC to derail all the developmental plans crafted by Dr. Jagan and honed by his successors and loyal party members. Khemraj Ramjattan was promised leadership of the AFC on a rotational basis, but Trotman has never relinquished that position, until his (alleged) deal with the PNC propelled him into the Speaker’s chair, where he continues to do their bidding; even while they rejected Nagamootoo for that very position, after he had betrayed the PPP/C for ‘a high place’ promised to him by Trotman. Today Nigel Hughes as Chairman has more power than Ramjattan; but both Nagamootoo and Ramjattan have no other political relevance than to support the PNC to destroy the PPP/C Government, even if they drag the country back to the dark ages of pre-1992 in the process. Both men are merely bitter, venomous nonentities in the AFC who can make no decisions, but are left to do the dirty work of the PNC puppeteers who are drawing their strings. Both Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan wanted the presidency, and the rejection of their candidacy by the PPP/C sent the self-appointed deliverers into the embrace of the AFC, with the promise of co-leadership on a rotational basis (which did not happen as per Ramjattan’s expectations, but was accorded to him by default when Trotman became Speaker), “a high place” and a Vice-presidency. Both aspiring presidents are today holding, in local parlance, “larwah.” Nagamootoo was not even given the Speakership position to which he aspired because Trotman is believed to have cut a

secret deal with the PNC to reject him in return for AFC support. However, PPP defectors to the AFC have to be blind not to recognise the trend. Gaumattie Singh was denied a parliamentary seat because Trotman chose Chantal Smith instead. Trotman has always been leader of the AFC since inception, despite the co-leadership premise on which it was founded, with Ramjattan always having been left floundering in the cold, and Nagamootoo was denied the Speaker’s position. Guess who holds both positions coveted by Ramjattan and Nagamootoo? Trotman, of course, because it has been revealed that he has been holding secret talks with the hierarchy of the PNC, the beast out of whose belly he emerged; and ironically, it is the PPP/C support base that is being eroded to ultimately empower the PNC, with funding provided by former PPP supporters in the diaspora and the local business world. The relevance of this duo will come to an end once they are no longer needed as conjunctive satellites to give the PNC power to destroy the PPP/C developmental programmes. They know their history well and should remember what happened to Vincent Teekah and the United Force.

Problems with GT&T monthly phone internet I HAVE been a customer of the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company (GT&T) for a number of years. Recently, I started encountering problems with my monthly internet service on my cell phone. For over one week I did not receive any internet service, so I thought GT&T had suspended my account. The month before they had told me they suspended it because I had used up a certain amount of megabytes. I agreed that I had downloaded information during the previous month but this month I hardly used the internet. To my surprise, on Good Friday, April 18, I received a text message from GT&T that my internet service will be off at 14:12 hrs, so this drew my attention to the fact that my service was never up and I decided to call customer care service on 0488. I spoke to an operator who gave me her name and asked me what kind of phone I have. I provided that information as well as the phone number. She walked me through the settings and I followed all the instructions she gave me. She instructed me to turn off my device and put it on in 10 minutes. I turned it on in 20 minutes and still no internet. When I called her back she said that it was showing on her system that my service was active. I then asked what the problem was and she responded that she did not know and promised that GT&T will get back to me. I waited for a while but got no call, so I called them back. Another operator answered and I explained the problem and she asked me the same questions. I told her I went through the process with an operator already and she too told me that she was seeing that my net was on. I asked if I would receive my internet service back and I was told a blunt ‘no.’ I was transferred to the supervisor who told me there was

nothing she could do. She promised to forward my information to the technician. I asked her how soon and she said she didn’t know because that was out of her hands. Editor, I paid for a monthly service but I did not benefit much from it. I need an explanation from GT&T as to what exactly happened to my service that I paid for but wasn’t receiving. I have another problem with GT&T. My iPhone was stolen over one year ago and I reported the matter to the police and GT&T. I managed to locate the phone a few months ago and it is in the possession of the police. The officers did all that was necessary but they are still awaiting a report from GT&T just

to see if my number ever worked with the IMEI number on the phone. I need speedy action and I’m kindly asking for the Chief Executive Officer to take note because there may be other customers encountering these same problems. No time was given to me. JOHONEL MUNROE

EDITOR’S NOTE: A copy of this letter will be forwarded to GT&T for any comments or clarification they may wish to make.

Granger’s absolute hypocrisy and confounded nonsense

THE Opposition is once again insulting the intelligence of Guyanese. Since they cannot argue using facts, they choose to play with words. This is their strategy in their desperate attempts to discredit the Government’s 2014 National Budget and derail Guyana’s development yet again. They know that they cannot dispute the facts that are staring them in the face, so they are resorting to empty rhetoric and semantics. Judging from Mr. Granger’s budget presentation, one

gets the impression that development is an event and not a process. It is in this context I wish to comment on what Mr. Granger is reported to have said in his 2014 budget presentation. I did not look or listen to his presentation, since I was not prepared to subject myself to such torture, but I now draw attention to some of the hypocritical statements in his address, as follows: “Budget 2014 must be amended if people are to enjoy (PLEASE SEE PAGE 7)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Freddie is besmirching the impeccable character of a decent woman

- this ‘pompous fella’ is yet to learn from his mistakes THE Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines the word ‘pompous’ as: “having or showing the attitude of people who speak and behave in a very formal and serious way because they believe that they are better, smarter, or more important than other people.” According to Google, ‘pompous’ means affectedly and irritatingly grand, solemn, or self-important - “a pompous ass who pretends he knows everything.” It is very likely that the origin of this word must have come from studying the rantings of the likes of Freddie Kissoon. Judging from several of his recent columns, and most recently in a letter, ‘The schools Priya Manickchand belongs to’ (Kaieteur News, April 20), it appears that Kissoon has found a new “whipping boy” in the person of the most respected Minister of Education. It is most disturbing to me that a newspaper that prides itself of being the conscience of the nation; one that stands by the integrity of the articles published; and one that lives by the creed of holding the government accountable to the people, would allow a pompous, despicable character like Freddie Kissoon to destroy the credibility and objectivity of the Kaieteur News. Of course, Freddie is being emboldened by the editor/s who allow him to besmirch the impeccable character of a decent, hard-working woman without censorship or consequence. I had written two previous letters in defence of the Hon. Priya Manickchand, in response to attacks from Freddie Kissoon, and they were both unpublished by Kaieteur News. I was told by the editor that he “did not feel comfortable” with my letters. As such, I expect this letter to suffer the same fate. Referring to a quote from another publication, Kissoon accuses the Education Minister of “vulgarity.” He added, “I have long written on the politics of Manickchand after I saw her performance in Parliament when she was made a Minister by Mr. Jagdeo. It was clear to me that her postures, gesticulations, vocabulary and facial expressions indicated that she was not going to be a debater who would abstain from unbecoming language.” Then, to give credence to the theory that ‘birds of a feather flock together’, Kissoon felt “disgusted” and turned away when Minister Manickchand “sought to upbraid Mark Benschop over an unflattering piece on her on Benschop’s web page.” Benschop of course, is another despicable character who slanders our President and ministers of the Government on his internet “hate” radio on a regular basis. He knows that he is protected by the non-existence of laws governing slander on the internet, but Kaieteur News must be ever cognisant and vigilant of Kissoon’s abrasive and contentious style that rubs people the wrong way. Kissoon is a classic liar who shamelessly tries to turn things around to save face. He admitted to calling Minister Manickchand after misinformation he had published in July 2013 entitled, ‘In the Ministry of Education, an evil injustice goes on’ was brought to the attention of the publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall. But what he failed to admit to his readers, is the fact that he called the Hon. Minister, not out of concern for her children, but to apologise after he was informed that legal action would be considered if his intellectual dishonesty persisted. Kissoon was again caught in a barefaced lie when he referred to Minister Manickchand as a “practising Hindu” (Kaieteur News, April 15). Those who truly know Minister Priya Manickchand would testify that although she has tolerance and respect for all religions, she is a strong believer in God and Christian theology. On April 3, Kissoon was quick to chastise the Education Minister for remarks she made in Parliament, insisting that she was referring to former APNU Parliamentarian Jaipaul Sharma. He even joined Opposition picket lines calling for her to apologise. Then on April 15, he cunningly shifted away from Jaipaul Sharma being the victim of the Minister’s innocuous comment, to her intended target, the accused rapist CN Sharma. He wrote in his column, “In claiming that she could not apologise to Sharma because of her sympathy with rape victims, Manickchand was hoping to bend and shape public

opinion in her favour away from the fact that Mr. CN Sharma is not convicted of rape.” Freddie Kissoon has a history of trying to besmirch the character of this lady, and Kaieteur News is well aware of this. On March 31, 2010, the following - ‘Freddie Kissoon apologises to Priya Manickchand’ was published in Kaieteur News: “Minister of Human Services and Social Security Priya Manickchand has blasted columnist and University of Guyana lecturer Frederick Kissoon who in an article (March 29), written by him, erroneously attributed comments to her during the recent debate on the Court of Appeal (Amendment) Bill. Kissoon in his article had suggested that Manickchand had made comments on the bill as it relates to the Director of Public Prosecutions and a quest for more power. Manickchand supplied this newspaper with the Hansard (verbatim record)

of her presentation which makes no reference to what Freddie Kissoon made mention of. When confronted with the evidence by this newspaper, Kissoon accepted that he had made a mistake and sincerely sought to have an apology publicly issued to the Minister. Kissoon insisted no harm was intended by the statements he made and attributed to the Minister.” The 19th century Prussian and German statesman, Otto von Bismarch is credited with saying, “Only a fool learns from his own mistakes. The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.” It would appear that Frederick Kissoon has not yet learnt from his mistakes, and I fear he is determined to take Kaieteur News down with him. HARRY GILL

Granger’s absolute hypocrisy ... (FROM PAGE 6) a good life”- Granger. This is a very interesting statement. The Opposition has amended both the 2012 and 2013 budgets, but they are yet to explain to the people of Guyana how those amendments made their lives better. If they cannot prove that their previous amendments have resulted in Guyanese living a better life, how can they proceed to amend the 2014 budget, claiming that this is necessary for people to live a better life. What confounded nonsense is this? Have their deprivation of the Guyana economy in excess of 50 billion dollars over the past two years made any positive impacts on the lives of Guyanese? Has Guyana come any closer to providing its citizens and business community with cheap and reliable energy by killing the Amaila Falls Hydro Project? Mr. Granger called for the reduction of VAT. Had Granger taken the time to do some simple research he would have discovered that 16% VAT is quite low compared to many countries around the world. If his chief economist, Mr. Greenidge is an economist indeed he would have been able to advise him that any reduction will disproportionately benefit the rich. Greenidge would have also been able to tell him that the introduction of VAT has resulted in the rich paying their fair share of taxes, since all the items consumed mainly by the rich carry VAT. With the same breath, Granger called for the creation of jobs for school leavers. Could Granger explain how a reduction in Government’s revenue and, for that matter, their amendment of the national budget will lead to the creation of jobs for school leavers? Printing more monies as the PNC did? We know what that led to. “We now have a new dispensation in which the APNU and AFC can combine to save this budget. We must now work towards giving our people a good life”- Granger. Is this guy serious? They have been combining to save the budget since 2012 by cutting out all of the Government’s key development projects. The question I would like to ask him is, have their actions in saving the budgets of 2012 and 2013 led to improvements in Guyana? This is yet another example of Granger and the Opposition’s flawed logic and confounded nonsense. Mr. Granger, the majority of Guyanese are intelligent people. You are insulting them. “No single party knows everything” - Granger. Very true, but it seems that the Opposition doesn’t even believe in what they are saying. They willfully ignore the Government’s invitation to participate in the budget preparation. They instead want to establish a parliamentary committee where they dominate to prepare the budget. It seems they believe that they know everything. Maybe they do. They know everything about how to destroy a country and its people’s future. History has proven this to be correct.

Granger said that APNU knows the micro-economic fundamentals. Didn’t his chief economic advisor, Greenidge, advise him that if you want to improve the micro-economic fundamentals you have to work on the macro-economic fundamentals in the first instance? But then again, this is asking too much of Greenidge. If he is aware of this very basic economic principle he would not have made Guyana bankrupt when he was the Minister of Finance. The question therefore is what Granger thinks will improve the micro-economic fundamentals? Is it cutting from the national budget every year, all of the Government’s critical development projects? What confounded nonsense are Granger and the Opposition dishing out to the Guyanese public. Mr. Granger must once again be reminded that Guyanese are intelligent people. He must not forget that Guyanese students for the past five-plus years have been outperforming the entire Caribbean. Granger said that it is only through the majority side the executive can be made aware of the real situation on the ground affecting the people. This is a most interesting statement, because their actions since 2012 have proven beyond any doubt that they are totally ignorant of the real situation on the ground. When they kill the Hydro Power Project, were they not aware of the fact that the high cost of electricity is affecting every single Guyanese? They surely were not, because they were only thinking about Linden where electricity is free and the cost is a non-issue. Were they not aware of the cost of highly specialised medical care to ordinary Guyanese and how many lives could be saved when they denied funding for a specialty hospital in Guyana? Were they not aware of the cost of airfares to Guyanese when they denied funding for the expansion of our main airport? This list can go on. What do the answers to these questions make Granger and every member of the Opposition? The answer is plain and simple – hypocrites! Granger said the National Assembly has an obligation to provide leadership; to provide a better budget. But how can irrational and vindictive chopping of the national budget be described as responsible leadership? According to Granger, the National Assembly has a duty to design plans and strategies to overcome the economic, political and social challenges and it must forestall any folly that might prolong the nightmare of poverty that can lead us down the path of deeper destitution. What are the strategies and follies that Mr. Granger is talking about? The Hydro Project? The Specialty Hospital? Expansion of our main airport? Infrastructure in the hinterland? Or is he talking about himself and the entire Opposition? FARUK MOHAMED

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

President commissions water well in Lethem

- as that Guyana-Brazil border community grows by leaps and bounds RESIDENTS of Lethem in Region 9 will now enjoy a better supply of potable water as President Donald Ramotar, on Saturday last, commissioned a new Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) well. The President was accompanied by Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali, Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony and GWI’s Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh. During the commissioning ceremony, the President expressed his satisfaction having seen the successful completion of the project. “I want to express great

government. “In the Rupununi, particularly in Lethem, the community is a microcosm of what is taking place in the rest of Guyana; this community is growing by leaps and bounds,” the President said. The Guyanese Head of State said plans are on stream for another well in Lethem which will serve the new housing area for domestic use, and also in anticipation of the growing industrial development. “We are already seeing new developments in this region, including large scale farming. In Lethem we have been investing a lot in the water sector. In 2009, we invested $17 million; 2010,

“The communities are benefiting and it’s easing persons in the dry weather; people don’t have to go far distances for water. This is making a major difference in the lives of people.”

we need to accelerate in ensuring that the economic development of the communities will expand, and that is why we have been investing heavily and looking at economic projects and provid-

cut from Amerindians, but many other funds that have been cut will have a direct impact on interior communities…,” he said. “It is clear that we can’t take these people at their

path of development,” the President asserted. Meanwhile, Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said he was pleased with the successful completion of the project as it is a reflection of

GWI’s Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh, President Donald Ramotar and Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali check the water flow from the newly commissioned Lethem well, on Saturday last. Also in photo are Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony and Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai.

President Donald Ramotar with young residents of Lethem at the commissioning of the new Lethem well on Saturday satisfaction that this facility is working and is providing water to Lethem. I need not emphasise how important water is for everyone.” The President stressed the importance of water not only for domestic purposes, but also for industrial, manufacturing and development, hence supplying potable water is a top priority for his

$58 million; 2011, $47 million; 2012, $25 million, and last year $28 million,” Mr Ramotar told those in attendance at the commissioning of the new water well. In addition, the President pointed to the fact that over the past year new wells have been drilled in Baitoon and Rupertee, and residents are benefitting tremendously.

Notably, President Ramotar said the PPP/C administration has been able to achieve water coverage of 98 percent generally, and in the interior, moved from 25 percent to 71 percent coverage. “We hope to move into other regions to ensure they have reliable and potable water. Of course communities including, in the Rupununi, have shown that it has industrious people and capable people, and over the years, the government has managed in a big way to create the human capital for more rapid development.” In terms of developing the human capital, the President alluded to the fact that the government has constructed several new high schools with dormitories with the aim of having 100 percent of children having secondary education which is vital for any type of development. “...this human capital being prepared constantly,

ing cheap projects, funding resources and developing training of entrepreneurs.” The President also noted that the combined Opposition is grasping at every opportunity to stymie development as they have made significant cuts to the national budget which will impact significantly on hinterland communities. “That is why we have the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF), and all of those things were cut. I cannot believe that anyone who is interested in any kind of development will want to cut funds that will develop citizens…the ADF is aimed at providing cheap finance to help new businesses to expand their own project and their livelihood.” The Head of State added that other key developmental projects have also been affected within the health, tourism and aviation sector. “Not only have they been

word. In Parliament the Opposition was talking about development west of the Essequibo, but every single project west of the Essequibo that is in this budget - in the same budget period - they have cut and the AFC who joined with them, we clearly see that, their interest is not the people.” “My view is that they want things to get bad in the country with the people, and hope the people will blame the Government for some of the problems, but I have total confidence in the collective intelligence of the Guyanese people. I’m sure that people will see through this and reject them for what and who they are,” the President said. According to him, the Government will continue to progress and build Guyana. “With your support we will work very hard, we will work to legally get around the cuts, we will not stop the development in our country. We will continue along the

continued progress. “When the President assumed office, he made a number of commitments in the manifesto he was elected on, also in his successive policy statements in relation to water, and particularly in relation to the development of Lethem.” Minister Ali added that in relation to water, the commitment was to have 100 percent coverage in terms of access all across Guyana, and in the various regions. “Here in this region we are pleased with GWI that we have been able to work on the president’s commitment in having almost all of the communities powered by solar driven wells. More than 60 percent of the entire hinterland is covered with at least one solar driven facility.” Further, Minister Ali said it is the administration’s plan that before the See page 9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana...

Nation must choose between ‘cuts’ or ‘ideas’, ‘collateral damage’ or ‘progress’ OLD Kai has maintained all along that the political leadership in the Opposition has displayed a lackadaisical (careless, lazy…) approach to their roles and responsibilities in the National Assembly to help guide in a responsible manner, the future of Guyana. The nation knows it is in trouble if the current Opposition ever gets into Government again. This is more evident when the only solution Guyana’s political Op-

Granger is a magician as he promises ‘a good life for all’ by ‘cutting’ and ‘opposing’ every single development initiative for citizens by the PPP/C Government, yet offers no alternatives. position can offer to a perceived problem is ‘to cut’. No foresight, no alternatives, no ideas just ‘cut.’ When one looks at their budget presentations, it was painfully obvious how out-of-depth they were. Even primary school children would exercise more maturity and competence in dealing with an issue. You would think that the Opposition, comprising the APNU and AFC, would rush to attack Old Kai for such a comment but the reality is that they have also accepted this fact. During the debates, it was all about highlighting societal problems as typified by the ‘Guyanese girls gone wild’ presentation. There was no deep introspection, no clear analysis, no substitutes or unconventional approach proffered, no mention of “if we were in Government we would have done it like this…”, just rhetoric and

fallacies. One just needs to take a look at the presentation of Opposition leader David Granger, who went hopping all over the place, except dealing with the real problems and offering real solutions. This man is a magician as he promises ‘a good life for all’ by ‘cutting’ and ‘opposing’ every single development initiative for citizens by the PPP/C Government yet offers no alternatives. So how does he expect our people to gravitate to his utopian world? Compounding their situation was the fact that they pretended to be concerned about a particular area or segment of our population but made an about turn when it came time to support financial allocations to address those segments by pulling out their ‘tyrannical scissors.’ This is best exemplified by their disapproval of the Amerindian Development Fund. The pathetic excuse given was, rather than spend over $1 billion to fund economic development initiatives and training (developed by the Amerindians themselves) for the Hinterland population across the country, it was better to invest in a Technical Institute. Both the AFC and APNU made this argument. Sure that will provide training for a handful of youths annually, but it will not develop economic ventures within their communities to provide these very youths the jobs they will require after they would have graduated. The idea here is to focus development within Amerindian communities to build their resilience and standard of living; so what use will be for these trained youths in their villages if there are no jobs to utilize their skills? But this is our ‘ingenious’ Opposition. These are the people who would want you to put them in charge of your affairs, and at the helm of our nation. They want you to put them in charge of guiding your future. They want you to put them

in Government to make decisions which will positively impact your life and develop your country. Given this most recent example of the Amerindian Development Fund, will you give them such an opportunity? But it’s not that straightforward as whenever election approaches, you will have to sift through all their covert and overt ethnic pandering. You will have to overcome their traditional use of race to preserve their core base of support. You will have to decide if you are voting to preserve the status quo of such incompetent leaders

Ultimately, you will have to decide if you and your family’s future will be secured with the Opposition’s brand of politics or the development thrust of our country under the PPP/C, under which our people have been making historic economic gains because of an ethnic consideration or you are voting to protect your future and advance your standard of living. You will have to vote for either ‘cuts’ or ‘ideas.’ You will have to vote for either ‘collateral damage’ or ‘progress.’ Ultimately, you will have to decide if you and your family’s future will be secured with the Opposition’s brand of politics or the development thrust of our country under the PPP/C, under which our people have been making historic economic gains.

President commissions ... From page 8 end of the President’s first term, to have 100 percent coverage in terms of each village having at least one solar driven well. “Here in Lethem we have had tremendous strain on the water system as a result of the development that is taking place, in terms of the expansion of the commercial sector, and so on and we had to invest in this facility.” The minister also announced that another well will soon be commissioned in Lethem with the hope that those two wells will not only satisfy the present demand, but cater for an increase in demand Lethem itself necessitates as a result of its growth. “I’m pleased that the President made a commitment in terms of coordination of the Lethem Development Authority. In addition, the President had made a commitment of setting aside money for the upgrade of the industrial estate in this year’s budget and more than $190 million has been set aside for that estate,” Minister Ali said. (GINA)

President Donald Ramotar with Government ministers Irfaan Ali, Pauline Sukhai and Dr Frank Anthony, and CEO of Guyana Water Inc. Shaik Baksh, inspecting the newly commissioned Lethem well

Guyanese journalist charged with stealing and forgery in Grenada - to appear in court today ST GEORGE’S, Grenada: FOLLOWING his detention (last) week, police have formally charged Guyanese-born journalist Rawle Nelson with two counts of stealing EC$15,394.28 (Gy$113,322) by reason of employment, forgery and uttering a false document. Police said that, in July 2013, Nelson began working as a consultant and managing editor with Moving Target, the company which owns Meaningful Television and is also the publisher of the weekly Grenada Informer newspaper. Police said investigations are continuing, and it was likely that more charges would be laid against Rawle Nelson has been Nelson. Nelson once charged with theft and worked in St Kitts forgery & Nevis, and is managing director of the marketing company Optimum Solutions. He will make his first court appearance today at the St George’s court. His legal counsel is Ruggles Ferguson from the law firm of Ciboney Chambers. (CMC)

Man sustains serious injury as vehicle flips .... From page 3 with substantial injuries to his head, face and hands, sustained after he reportedly lost control of the vehicle he was driving on the #27 Village public road, West Coast Berbice. After losing control, it was reported that the vehicle slamed into a bridge rail and careen to the other side of the road, where it toppled over (turned turtle) several times before coming to rest. This accident happened at about 00:45 hrs yesterday, and an eyewitness to the occurrence gave this publication the foregoing details and added that, at time of the mishap, the vehicle This is what remained of Haynes’s was proceeding at motorcar after the accident “a reasonable rate”. The eyewitness said public-spirited persons rushed a dazed and bloodied Haynes to the nearby Fort Wellington Hospital in West Berbice where he is now receiving medical attention.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

National Science Fair slated for Region 2 - More than 100 schools to participate THE Ministry of Education will be hosting its National Science, Mathematics and Technology Fair 2014 under the theme ‘Science, Mathematics and Technology: Providing Solutions for the 21st century’. This is the final of several such regional events. According to an advisory from the Ministry of Education, over 100 science projects will be on display from schools across the country. We would like to encourage the public to support our students as they demonstrate the use of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to solve local school and community problems. Some of the features

Minister Priya Manickchand

of the 2014 National Science Fair include an educational movie corner, awareness workshops on Mangroves, Climate Change, Microscience experiments and Interactive Mathematics. The National Science, Mathematics and Technology Fair 2014 will be held at the Anna Regina Multilateral School – Region 2 from tomorrow April 23, 2014 to Thursday, April 25, 2014 from 10:00 – 15:00 hrs. The Minister of Education, Hon. Priya Manickchand and ministry officials are expected to be in attendance at the Opening Ceremony, which is scheduled for 10:00 hrs tomorrow.

PS Croal informs…

$37M collaborative Mabaruma market tarmac 80 percent complete THE Mabaruma Market Tarmac now under constructarmac for Kumaka, also in the North West District, was tion in the North West District is expected to signifisigned and awarded to Joshi Construction and Transportation cantly halt land erosion occurring at Establishment. the Kumaka Waterfront in Region One That tarmac, which costs $37M, is a col(Barima/Waini). It is now 80 percent laborative venture among the Local Governcompleted and will soon be ready for ment, Public Works, and Finance Ministries. use. In addition to resolving the land erosion Permanent Secretary in the Ministry issues, the tarmac will allow for vending in of Local Government and Regional Dea more conducive environment. The new velopment, Mr. Collin Croal, made this facility could be used as well for social enstatement last week when he provided an gagements and physical interactions at the update on the work at a press conference level of games and sports. he co-hosted along with Minister of Local Former Local Government Minister, Government and Regional Development, Ganga Persaud, had said that while the Mr. Norman Whittaker. Ministry responded positively to vendors’ Croal said the project for the Mabarurequest to be allowed to sell on the pavema Market extension is also to come on ments for a period, the Ministry is commitstream this year. ted to making optimum use of the tarmac. Mr. Colin Croal The contract for building a market (Vanessa Narine)

U.S. Embassy and Castellani House celebrate Earth Day

US Ambassador Brent Hardt

THE U.S. Embassy and Castellani House will today present the final portion of their Earth Day Film Festival, at the Castellani House in Georgetown. The three films selected for this Film Festival, which began on April 15, serve to educate and promote awareness on environmental issues. U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Brent

Hardt will deliver remarks at the start of the programme to highlight the need for concerted global action to protect the environment and combat climate change. According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown, he will also discuss ongoing and planned collaborative environmental programmes in Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Mayor Green in hot water after sabotaging revenue collection - his deputy also in the ‘sass’ By Ravin Singh

GEORGETOWN Mayor Hamilton Green and his deputy, Patricia Chase-Green, yesterday, stormed the seawalls in a concerted show of bullyism, admonishing vendors not to pay revenues which are obligatory, and unlawfully removing the keys from City Council vehicle No. PLL 7605, which was being used to store

seat on the seawalls” after having committed his acts of bullyism. Langevine, who is the officer in charge of security detail at the City Constabulary, denounced the actions of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and noted that their actions “constitute a criminal offence”. He explained that the assistant town clerk and deputy town clerk were yesterday proceeding west along the seawall road, collecting monies

ing directed into their hands. With the power to collect revenues now being vested in her, Sooba remarked, “I will do my job with diligence and bring a stop to this confusion”. Only recently, she told reporters in an interview that there are specific spots which would be sold to persons who wish to vend on Easter Monday. In addition, she had said, the council would be ensuring enforcement, whereby persons who land on the spots would be made to pay for same or be evicted. She had said that there would be no place for thieves in her administration, and the Mayor and some councillors are welcome to be part of the bigger process of restoring City Hall, but there must be the understanding that she is the CEO and administrator of the council, and all matters which should be passed through her by law will have to be respected.

Rodney COI hearings ... From page 4

Georgetown Mayor, Hamilton Green

Town Clerk Carol Sooba

the revenue collected from vendors. Town Clerk Carol Sooba explained in an interview with this newspaper yesterday afternoon that Julian Orgista, who was responsible for collecting the revenue, was

ASP Gordon Langevine

Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green

from vendors in an action which by law is compulsory, when Mayor Hamilton Green, Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, and other councillors extracted the keys from the vehicle, PLL 7605, and departed. The vehicle was subsequently left with the windows open, although it rained periodically, and staff members were forced to take to safety the cash they had already collected. City Constabulary ranks approached Green to inquire the reason for his actions, but he refuted the allegation that he had the keys to the vehicle in question, although the evidence was unquestionable, and continued his admonition to vendors not to pay revenues. Langevine said the incident occurred behind the NIS ground at around 13:30 The vehicle which was left with the windows down and had to be ‘fetched’ away hrs, and a report was subseafter Mayor Hamilton Green unlawfully took the keys (Sonell Nelson photo) quently made to the Guyana Police Force and to the new targeted by the Mayor, who then admonished vendors not police divisional commander. Senior officers who were to pay any money to Orgista. present when the incident occurred then proceeded to Sooba added that she was made aware that the Mayor the Alberttown Police Station to give statements on the used his armed bodyguard, who is appointed to him by incident. the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), as a Sooba said the vehicle, described as an automatic one, “man-weapon” to cause confusion between vendors and which accordingly could not be towed, had to be ‘fetched’ councillors who were executing their duties. by a tow truck so as to avoid inflicting damage to it. “This is not the first time that the Mayor has abused According to Sooba, the act of collecting revenues for his privileges in this regard,” Town Clerk Sooba declared. vending is one that has been in existence for over twenty She noted that all the actions of the Mayor, his deputy years. She said that power was previously vested in Depand his bodyguard were monitored by Assistant Superin- uty Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, who manipulated staff tendent of Police Gordon Langevine and other officers of collecting revenues, and as such monies always “appeared the City Constabulary, who then took action and called short”. for back-up. However, when the City Constabulary sprang Sooba is convinced that the actions of the Mayor and into action, Sooba said the Mayor took “a comfortable Deputy Mayor are retaliatory, because monies are not be-

Commission, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and trade unions and other stakeholders have been held. Cheltenham added that the lawyers attached to the Commission, who include Mr. Glen Hanoman, Ms. Latchmie Rahamat and Ms. Nicola Pierre, are currently helping witnesses to put their statements together in an orderly and relevant fashion. President Donald Ramotar had agreed, in June 2013, to establish the COI following a request from the Rodney family after a previous inquiry ordered by former President Desmond Hoyte, in 1988, found that the historian/ politician’s demise was caused by an ‘accident or misadventure’ and that met with grave disbelief. Rodney was killed on June 13, 1980, when a bomb exploded in the car in which he was travelling. He was 38 years old at the time and nine years ago Parliament unanimously approved a motion to establish a commission to enquire into the circumstances surrounding his death. The parliamentary motion that spawned the idea of establishment of the Commission of Inquiry stated thus: “On the 13th June, 1980, Dr. Walter Rodney, a distinguished Guyanese scholar, was assassinated by an explosion which occurred in his car at John and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown…Dr. Rodney was, at the time of his death, an eminent political leader engaged in a struggle against authoritarian rule for democracy and social justice…There have been calls for a full investigation into the assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney, which have received broad support. “…the National Assembly, in paying tribute to the memory of this illustrious son of Guyana, and on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his untimely and tragic death, supports an enquiry being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Rodney.” After his assassination, Rodney received several honours posthumously, among them, in 1993, the Government of Dr. Cheddi Jagan conferred on him the country’s highest National Award, the Order of Excellence (OE) and the Walter Rodney Chair in History was created at the University of Guyana. Last week, Members of Parliament (MPs) were unanimous in their approval of $112M to fund the work of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry. The allocation was listed under the Office of the President’s $2.2B current expenditure estimates.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Reports suggest regatta will replace pageant for Linden Town Week By Alex Wayne

PLANS are moving apace for the staging of the annual Linden Town Week, geared at showcasing the history, culture and achievements of Lindeners while attracting domestic and international tourists. However, it appears that reigning Town Day Queen Latisha Phillips will have to hold on to the title for a second year, as at least two changes have been made to the programme of events. A pageant will thus far not be held, but on the upside, a regatta has been added, and the week of activities will officially commence with an opening ceremony on April 27 at the Linden-Georgetown minibus park in Mackenzie, according to sources on the Planning Committee. The list of events slated to be undertaken during the Town Week include numerous parties and a mega gospel concert to be staged on April 28. The seniors would come into their own with a celebratory luncheon on April

29 at the Egbert Benjamin Hall and Conference Centre in Mackenzie. Debates, spelling bee and scrabble competitions among students are also carded for the Week. The Wismar Creole Night will be hosted along Burnham Drive and Poker Street in Wismar on Friday, May 2; while an art exhibition is to be staged on May 3 in the Egbert Benjamin Hall and Conference Centre, and this would be followed by the Farmers’ Exhibition and Job Fair. The events will culminate on May 4 NO EXPLANATION No explanation has been offered for this year’s decision not to hold the pageant, which is usually a major part of the week. Meanwhile, according to a letter to the editor published in the print media, there will be some thrills and spills as part of the excitement on the waterfront. The Linden Town Day Committee has formed a new Regatta Committee and has been having discussions

with Master Winston Miller (Senior) of Bartica. Given his experience in this sport since 1987, he has been invited to a special meeting where discussions were held to host a successful regatta. According to Miller, he has been tasked with the responsibility of coordinating the power boat and jet-ski races, and he said he has “already contacted the Pomeroon racers” in this regard. He reported that Bartica, Suriname and Skeldon racers are all excited about the Linden Regatta, which would be held on May 4 at the bandstand by the old Alumina Plant along the Demerara River. The events listed for this occasion include three ‘open’ races; three 75-to90HP races; three 40 HP races, and three jet-ski races. There will also be a swimming race and a paddle boat race, and Miller has assured that activities would be strictly supervised by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), besides the Power Boat Racing Association and the police.

Reigning Linden Town Day Queen, Latisha Phillips, being crowned when she took top honours in the pageant in 2013

Murder accused Albert Andries gets 10 years for manslaughter - tells wife he is sorry for killing her son

By George Barclay SEVENTY-five-year-old Albert Andries, the stepfather accused of murdering his stepson, 34-year-old Lakeram Persaud, called ‘Bojo’, on July 27, 2012, allegedly following an argument, was sentenced last week to 10 years’ imprisonment for the lesser count of manslaughter, after a mixed jury that tried the accused for murder found him guilty of the lesser count of manslaughter, and Justice Dawn Gregory imposed the penalty accordingly. Andries, who had pleaded not guilty to the capital offence, claimed that his stepson was in the habit of teasing and provoking him, and he said that had led to him losing his temper and chopping the stepson on the day in question. Madam Justice Dawn Gregory, who had addressed the jury on the question of manslaughter, had told the aged prisoner that four of the incised wounds he had inflicted on the victim were serious wounds. Asked whether he had anything to say before sentence was passed, Andries said he was sorry for what had happened. And his lawyer, Miss Sonia Parag, in a plea in mitigation, told the judge that her client was remorseful for what he had done, and was respectfully asking the court to be lenient with him.

Before imposing the sentence, Justice Gregory mentioned that the jury might have taken into account the question of self-defence and provocation; but she pointed out that there was a lot of anger in the offence, which she has to bear in mind. On being escorted from the dock to prison, Andries said goodbye to his wife,

who had attended the trial, and told her that he was sorry for what had happened. She later told the Chronicle, “He says that he is sorry now, but he never used to think about sorrow when I used to speak to him.” The prosecution was conducted by Miss Mercedes Thompson, in association with new lawyer, Mr. Lloyd Mark Conway.

Badly stabbed man found dead at Lethem

THE Guyana Police Force has reported that Terrence James, 23, of Kwatamang Village, North Rupununi, was found dead on the Tabatinga Public Road at Lethem, at about 5:30 hrs yesterday. He had suspected stab wounds to his chest, the police said in a press report. The body of James is at the Lethem Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Police investigations are in progress.

Jamaicans busted with marijuana at CJIA RANKS of the Police Force’s Narcotics Branch conducted searches on the baggage of two Jamaican nationals who were on an incoming flight yesterday (Easter Monday) at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and were busted with marijuana. The incident occurred around 07:00hrs yesterday morning when the ranks searched the baggage of the two Jamaican nationals at CJIA, and unearthed a total of 28 kilogrammes of compressed marijuana. The Jamaican nationals, a man and a woman, were taken into custody and are assisting Police ranks in their ongoing investigations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Easter facilitated family get-togethers all across the country By Michel Outridge and Rebecca Ganesh-Ally THOUSANDS of Guyanese from all walks of life flocked the seawall and other open spaces across Guyanese coastland, such as community playgrounds, pastures and parks, for the annual Easter Monday kite flying festival. The occasion is said to mark the observance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

and families use the opportunity to bring the young ones out for kite flying, while they themselves enjoy, and otherwise have a good time. As is the case every year, the picnic baskets were bountiful, as were the coolers laden with beers, and other beverages, which would not otherwise end the day right for the adults. Sound systems blared songs far from solemn, as the young and old had a

Face painting in the National Park.

grand time. Most cared little about the religious significance of the day. It was all about having ‘a good time’. Hindus, Muslims and Christians all took part. They said it didn’t matter as it served to reinforce the widely known sentiment that Guyanese are united in their different cultures, while religious holidays are nationally celebrated. CELEBRATING EASTER GUYANA-STYLE The sky over Georgetown was transformed into a veritable kaleidoscope as persons used every appropriate venue to raise their kites in symbolism of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. A n d G e o r g e t o w n ’s streets were thronged with Guyanese from every station in life, eager not only to mount their kites, but to spend time with their relatives and friends. The Guyana Chronicle visited several locations

Education Minister Priya Manickchand took time to fly a kite with her family members yesterday.

(PLEASE SEE PAGE 14)

The Persaud family celebrated Easter at Joe Vieira Park yesterday. (Photos by Adrian Narine and Sonell Nelson)

Kite flying in the National Park, as members of this family pose with their kites.

Kite flying at the Kitty seawall.

The scene in the National park yesterday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Easter facilitated family get-togethers all ...

(FROM PAGE 13) -- including the National Park, the Carifesta Sports Complex, Hope Beach,

and the sea walls along the Rupert Craig Highway and along the East Coast of Demerara â&#x20AC;&#x201C;- and

found permeating a jovial atmosphere of bonhomie reflected in bright smiles and mirthful laughter.

It was obvious that Easter continues to be more than a Christian holiday, but a national holiday, as persons of

all walks of life gathered to celebrate the occasion in secular and non-secular ways. Speaking with some families at their picnic sites, the Guyana Chronicle learnt that some children were not very interested in kite flying activities, being more concerned with the family outing aspect

the occasion facilitated.

JOE VIEIRA PARK Easter was palpably in the air yesterday at Joe Vieira Park, West Bank Demerara, as the smell of popcorn, hot dogs and bar-b-que permeated the atmo(PLEASE SEE PAGE 17)

Bar-B-Que at the grill

This Buxtonian has a round star-point kite

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014 Kite flying in the National Park

One large family reunion

A young man holding his large box kite yesterday.

15 Children playing in the National Park

Hope Beach kite flyers

Easter facilitated family get ...

(FROM CENTRE)

A GINA staffer enjoying a family picnic

This dude shows off his unique kite yesterday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Easter facilitated family get-togethers all ... (FROM CENTRE) sphere, and hundreds showed up to fly kites with their family members and relatives in tow. Many took advantage of the cool breeze to relax in hammocks tied to the trees that lined the park, while others sat on blankets to enjoy picnicking in the outdoors. An impressive variety of foods and snacks and a rich assortment of beverages of all sorts decorated many stalls, while children busied themselves in raising their kites amidst a hive of activities that transformed the park into a maelstrom of loud music blaring from several huge boom boxes and the raucous laughter and animated conversations of engaged revellers relaxing under tents enjoying drinks. Rajin Persaud, huge kite in hand, said this is his third time at the park, and he was with his family members who hail from Wales, West Bank Demerara. He added that he was having a good time, and that was evident in his wide smile. Meanwhile, beverage vendor Kenrick Lakha told this publication that, for the past five years, he has been selling at the location; and this year’s sales were a bit slow in coming. He was nevertheless optimistic that by nighfall sales would pick up, as people competed for space in the park, which was almost filled to capacity. Kites in all colours, sizes and shapes were in the air, as gleeful children held onto their balls of twine yesterday at Joe Vieira Park. Several children took time to speak to the Guyana Chronicle, expressing their satisfaction at the event; and they seemed to

be having a good time. NATIONAL PARK The scene in the National Park was quite similar to what obtained at the Joe Vieira Park, and people poured into the location to celebrate the day with their loved ones. Vehicles were filled with food and drinks, while children ran around with kites and adults contented themselves with cold drinks and light chit-chat. Some even took time to take a nap under trees, lying on blankets, their stomachs satiated with good food and copious drinks. The National Park was packed with vendors also, and even though a fee was attached for vehicles to enter, the place was full with hundreds of vehicles, causing traffic to move at a crawl in entering and exiting the Park. At the National Park, this publication spoke with several persons who disclosed that they were having a wonderful time. One

picnicker said, “I’m having a good time with my friends and my sister…The food is good, the drinks are good… we’re having fun!”

GEORGETOWN SEAWALL Kenneth (only name given), visiting from overseas for the second consecutive year, spoke to us from among his relatives who were gathered on the seawalls. He said: “Today is a lovely day. The weather is good; everyone is having fun; I’m enjoying myself with my family…. I will definitely be coming back again for Easter.” In Guyana, Easter is a very joyful season. The Easter weekend offers numerous opportunities for families to come together and spend quality time in each other’s company, enjoying the traditional outdoor activities such as kite-flying, rodeos, regattas, and picnics. Thankfully, Easter Monday was observed incident-free at all the locations that this newspaper visited up to press time yesterday.

Aries March 21 - April 19

For once, it’s really tough to say how you might react to what comes your way at the moment. Ordinarily, your loved ones would have absolutely no problem figuring that out. They might even be able to recite something uncannily close to your answer. But now? Well, with the way you’ve been acting lately, your response is up for grabs. Kind of nice for a change, isn’t it?

Taurus April 20 - May 20

You’ve felt this coming for a while now. Certain family members have been smiling smugly, tossing knowing glances around and exchanging meaningful winks. Now, if anyone loves secrets, it’s you -- but only when you’ve been let in on it. Beg, if you have to. Something is going on, and you deserve to know about it. After all, who’s better at keeping quiet than you are?

Gemini May 21 - June 21

Heaven help anyone who tries to come between you and what you absolutely must get off of your chest at the moment. One look should shut them up, and probably send them retreating to the corner with their tail between their legs. But if that doesn’t work, try a few well-placed words. The truthful kind. The honestly truthful kind. Bet they won’t stop until they’re well past that corner.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Secrets are in the air at the moment -- for one and all. It may be particularly tough to keep quiet, however, because the secret you want to share is a happy one. Still, you’ve been sworn to silence. There’s only one thing to do: Beg him or her to let you out of your promise, swear that you’ll only talk about it with your best friend, and do just that.

Leo July 23 - August 22

You can come out now -- and you can stop worrying, too. You’ve been dealing with an internal tug-of-war for days, trying to decide whether to choose the responsible or the fun thing to do. Well, if you’re clever, you can do both. And whoever said you weren’t clever? Be diligent during the day -- work a little bit longer if you have to -- but once quitting time comes, put it all behind you.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Ready to take this relationship one giant step closer toward intimacy? True intimacy? Bet you are. Bet they are, too. So get busy and forget about it being a school night. Plan on being up late -- for only the most delightful reasons. Hey, if you’re tired tomorrow, you can always nap. Or call in. Wouldn’t it be fun to play hide-and-seek under the covers all day? Of course it would.

Libra September 23 - October 22

For Tuesday April 22, 2014 -10:30hrs For Wednesday April 23, 2014 -12:00hrs For Thursday April 24, 2014 -13:30hrs

You have every right to voice your opinion, especially if you think a friend’s new love interest isn’t good enough for them. But, remember, if you do, you’re treading on some dangerous territory. So reconsider: It might be best to let this fling just take its own course. By butting into other people’s love lives, you run the risk of alienating them. Bite your tongue and just observe things for a while. When it doesn’t work out, don’t rub it in their face.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

Surprises will be coming to you via your career and the people involved in it. This could mean the higher-ups have been sheisty about your situation or something they promised -- the chances of that happening, however, are slim. What’s more likely is that someone in a position of authority has been working on your behalf. Either way, get ready for something huge!

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

Being dutiful, steadfast and reliable comes easily to you, but you’ve been good for far too long. It’s now officially time to let yourself go! Get out there and have some serious fun. Why do it locally? Isn’t it time to take your show on the road? Explore the world!

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

Feeling restless? Feeling as if you need to expand your horizons a touch by getting to know some new friends? Well, you’re right on track, and the universe will be only too happy to help. When an invitation arrives -- and it will, probably sooner rather than later -- you should jump right on it, get yourself dressed, and greet your new peer group. Will it be that easy? It sure will!

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

It’s time, once again, to reinforce your reputation as a hopeless romantic. Not that you mind or that it’s hard work to pull off. You love being in love, you love being romantic, and you’re very, very good at it! So get started. What can you do to make it the most special day of all for your favourite person?

Pisces February 19 - March 20

Right in the middle of your carefully planned day, an emotion will arrive. The kind of emotion that holds the potential for disrupting all those well-laid plans. What are you going to do about it? Well, for starters, you’re not going to let it happen in public. If you feel a wave of emotions coming on, cancel your appointments and get yourself some privacy. Mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health. Take a sick day, and allow yourself to recuperate.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Priyanna Ramdhani ... (FROM BACK PAGE) Cheung 21-6, 21-11 in the Girls Under-15 Doubles category. This was after Priyanna, joint 2013 Junior Sportswoman-of-the-Year, had lost out in her bid to claim the Singles title, following her 21-11, 21-11 semi-final victory over Erisa Bleau but she lost in the final to Imani Mangroe of Suriname, 21-18, 8-21, 17-21. Manager/coach of the team, Gokarn Ramdhani, said he felt really proud to know that for the last seven years in a row a Guyana badminton team have medalled at every international tournament they attended, which includes Pan American Championships, Caribbean Championships, Suriname Easter International Championships and the South American Youth Games. The overall results from the Suriname Easter International Championships are: Priyanna Ramdhani - gold (U-15 Girls Doubles), - silver (U-15 Girls Singles), bronze (U-19 Mixed Doubles). Narayan Ramdhani – silver (U-19 Boys Doubles), Bronze, (U-19 Boys Singles) Bronze (U-19 Mixed Doubles). Hemraj Beharry, Jonathan Mangra and Ronald Chang Yuen – bronze (U-19 Boys Doubles) and Ambika Ramraj and Krystal Peters – bronze (U-19 Girls Doubles). In the Boys U-19 semifinals, Narayan Ramdhani lost to Samuel Ricketts of Jamaica 21-17, 21-13, but teamed up with Jonathan Mangra to defeat Shawn Brandon and M. Nannanpanday 21-3, 21-9 in their Boys Doubles matchup. Beharry and Chang Yuen (Guy) lost to Soren Opti and Mitch Nai Chung Tong 21-6, 21-7, while Priyanna and Narayan teamed up in the Under-19 Mixed Doubles and won bronze after losing to Suriname’s Soren Opti and Ishaak Rugshaar, 21-16, 21-17.

GCB to host Double-Wicket ... (FROM BACK PAGE) of every two male matches, a female encounter will take place, with the preliminary round matches being contested as a four overs affair and being played on a knockout basis. The GCB is targeting a maximum of 96 overs on the first day, with a five minutes change over period in between all matches, with each player being asked to bowl two overs from one end of the wicket to save time, with the ends being rotated during the course of the day. Entry to the venue on the first day will be free while for the second day which will see male teams battling for four overs aside up to the final which will be a six over affair and female teams competing in a four over contest throughout, an admission fee of $1,000 will be charged with females and kids being admitted free. Each team to acquire their own sponsor who will pay their entrance fees and manage the team, while free parking will be made available and a tarmac party are also on the cards for Sunday night.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230)& CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Kieron Pollard (MI) LasithMalinga& Ravi Ashwin Today’s Quiz: Who top the list for most wickets in the 2010 IPL? How many? Who is the first bowler to claim a five-wicket haul in an IPL game? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Keflezighi wins Boston Marathon, first U.S. victor in decades By Scott Malone, Svea Herbst-Bayliss and Richard Valdmanis

BOSTON, Mass. (Reuters) - Meb Keflezighi yesterday became the first U.S. male athlete to win the Boston Marathon in three decades as onlookers chanted “USA! USA!,” an emotional performance in a city still recovering from last year’s fatal bombing attack. Keflezighi, who was born in Eritrea but is now a U.S. citizen, pulled ahead of a pack of elite African runners, a little more than halfway into the race and held off a late challenge by Kenya’s Wilson Chebet to finish in two hours eight minutes and 37 seconds. Among the women, Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo notched her second consecutive win of the race, smashing a 12year course record with a blistering time of two hours 18 minutes and 57 seconds, reeling in American Shalane Flanagan, who had set a punishing pace as she led the women for the first 20 miles of the 26.2-mile (42.2-

… Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo notches second consecutive win

Meb Keflezighi of the U.S. receives the his garland after winning the men’s division at the 118th running of the Boston Marathon in Boston, Massachusetts yesterday. (Credit: REUTERS/Gretchen Ertl)

km) race. “This is probably the most meaningful victory for an American, just because of what happened here last year,” Keflezighi told re-

porters after his win. “Up till now I’d say my career was 99.9 percent fulfilled. Today I’d say it is 110 percent fulfilled.” Noting that the Boston Red Sox’s World Series championship last year had lifted the city’s spirits, he added that he wanted to provide a similar boost: “When the Red Sox did it, I said, ‘I want to do it for Boston.’” Flanagan, who finished seventh, said she had decided to run this year’s race immediately after last year’s attack. “I just wanted to send a message that I was not afraid to be back here and I was not afraid to be a part of this day,” said Flanagan, who vowed to return next year, and to keep returning until she notched a victory. Last year, three people, including an 8-year-old boy, were killed and 264 were hurt when, prosecutors say, a pair of ethnic Chechen brothers left homemade bombs

at the crowded finish line, tearing through the crowd. ‘SYMBOLIC’ VICTORY Fans had packed the course, waving American flags and wearing T-shirts bearing the “Boston Strong” motto the city adopted as a rallying cry after last year’s attack. Their screams grew deafening as Keflezighi tore through the final miles. “It is very symbolic that an American won this race today one year after the bombing, said Veronica Carroll, who had travelled from New Jersey to watch her husband run. “It represents the strength of our country.” Some 35 755 runners from 96 countries competed in the second-largest field in history for the 118th running of the Boston Marathon. Among the women runners, Buzunesh Deba of Ethiopia was second and compatriot Mare Dibaba third. They too turned in

Chennai Super Kings crush Daredevils by 93 runs CHENNAI Super Kings crushed Delhi Daredevils by 93 runs in a thoroughly one-sided game in Abu Dhabi. (Chennai Super Kings 177 for 7 (Raina 56, Dhoni 32; Unadkat 3-32) beat Delhi Daredevils 84 (Ashwin 2-3, Jadeja 2-18, I Pandey 2-23) by 93 runs). Super Kings started steadily after choosing to bat, but Suresh Raina’s busy fifty in the middle and a late surge propelled them to 177. Their quicks tied Daredevils down with accurate swing bowling, and electric catching from Raina and Faf du Plessis made it harder. The middle order sank without a fight, and by the halfway stage of the chase, the match was as good as over. By the 16th over, Super Kings had wrapped up their biggest win in terms of runs. Brendon McCullum had said that with such a powerful line-up, Super Kings would go hard right from the start. But they stuck to their tested approach of starting steadily, keeping wickets in hand and exploding at the death. Super Kings were 34 for 1 after the end of the Powerplay and 65 for 1 after ten overs.

They took 58 off the last four overs with swift contributions from MS Dhoni, du Plessis and Mithun Manhas. Daredevils lost the services of Nathan Coulter-Nile three deliveries into the match, the fast bowler hobbling off after hurting his leg while sliding to stop the ball. To his credit, Dinesh Karthik still managed to keep Jaydev Unadkat and Mohammed Shami for the final four without suffering too much damage in the middle overs but led by Dhoni, Super Kings had too much firepower in store. Dhoni blitzed 32 off 15, almost smacking Unadkat flush on the head before the bowler somehow scrambled to avoid a fearsome straight hit. Raina ensured Super Kings did not stall before the late assault. He did not rely too much on the boundaries but when the chance came, he did hit a few, taking the part-time off-spin of M. Vijay for three fours in an over. Raina also started Daredevils’ downfall. Ishwar Pandey and Ben Hilfenhaus were probing with their outswingers, and when Mayank Agarwal tried to break free with

an attempted chip over cover, Raina made ground to snap up the mishit. With Pandey bowling a disciplined full spell on the trot and Mohit Sharma providing no release, Vijay and Manoj Tiwary stuck to Agarwal’s approach. Both fell to spectacular, running takes by du Plessis at mid-off. Daredevils were 17 for 3 in the fifth over, and were going nowhere from there. Everything that Super Kings tried worked, even as Karthik hung around in vain. Dwayne Smith trotted in for his first ball in the ninth over and caught JP Duminy plumb in front. Hilfenhaus had Ross Taylor caught behind as just reward for his away swing. At 50 for 5 in the tenth over and Coulter-Nile unavailable, Daredevils needed a miracle from the last batting pair of Karthik and Jimmy Neesham. Instead, R Ashwin hit his Tamil Nadu team-mate’s middle stump with his first ball in the 13th over, and along with Ravindra Jadeja, ran through whatever remained of the Daredevils line-up. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo kisses the trophy after winning the women’s division at the 118th running of the Boston Marathon, in Boston, Massachusetts.

faster performances than the previous course record of 2:20:43 set in 2002 by Margaret Okayno of Kenya. Among the male runners, Wilson Chebet of Kenya finished second and Frankline

Chepkwony, also of Kenya, was third. Ethiopia’s Lelisa Desisa, last year’s winner, did not finish, race officials said. No American athlete has stood atop the podium on Boston’s Boylston Street, not far from the site of last year’s bombing, since 1985 when Lisa Larsen-Weidenbach of Michigan won the women’s race. The drought has been longer for U.S. men: Greg Meyer of Massachusetts won in 1983. Race organisers expanded the field by some 9 000 runners this year, to allow the roughly 5 000 athletes, who had been left on the course last year when the twin pressure-cooker bombs went off near the finish line, another chance to compete. One of the two brothers who are accused of the bombing died after a shootout with police a few days after the blasts while the other, 20-year-old Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, is awaiting trial. If convicted, he may face execution.

Moyes faces sack at Manchester United - media

David Moyes

LONDON, England - (Reuters) - Manchester United are set to sack manager David Moyes less than a year after he took charge of the 20-time English football champions, British media reported yesterday. United have failed to get going under Moyes this season and are languishing in seventh place in the Premier League, meaning they will miss out on a place in the lucrative Champions League for the first time since the 1995-96 season. Moyes, 50, was appointed United’s manager last year on the personal recommendation of Alex Ferguson, who retired after 26 years in the job, at the end of last season after steering United to the title for the 13th time in his reign. Several British newspapers carried similar reports online yesterday saying that Moyes had lost the support of the American Glazer family who own the club.

A poor performance in a 2-0 defeat away at Moyes’ former club Everton on Sunday was seen as the final straw. United will have to invest around 150 million pounds over the summer months to rebuild an ageing squad and ensure that their absence from the Champions League is just a temporary one rather than turning into a prolonged decline. The club board will have to decide whether it believes that Moyes is the right man to spend that money. The Daily Telegraph said Moyes could be out before Saturday’s home game with Norwich City if he seeks assurances over his future which executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward would be unlikely to be able to provide. A United spokesman declined to comment on the reports. Borussia Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp and Dutch national team boss Louis van Gaal have been cited as possible replacements for Moyes in recent media reports. Moyes, who had been manager at Everton for 11 seasons but never won a major trophy, was given a six-year contract but United have lurched from one crisis to another in his first season in charge. United fans have been disappointed by the team’s performances this season but most had expected Moyes to be given longer to try to turn things around.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

International Six take top honours in Sash Sawh memorial dominoes INTERNATIONAL Six emerged winners of the annual Satyadeow ‘Sash’ Sawh memorial dominoes tournament, played last Saturday at Ernest Shop, Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara, in the presence of the late Minister’s wife Mrs Sattie Sawh. The tournament, organised and sponsored by Sash Secretariat, saw the eventual champions mark a whopping 85 games to win easily from Canal Six with 73 and Zeelugt Sports Club who trailed on 69. Apart from the first sitting when International Six trailed Zeelugt by two games, they took command

Mrs Sattie Sawh, wife of the late Sash Sawh, hands over the winning trophy to International Six skipper Manniram Shew in the presence of other members of the victorious team. On Mrs Sawh’s left is Indra Jagmohan, one of the organisers.

and were never really challenged thereafter. Colin Hicken and Hilbert ‘Bumpy’ Ali led the way for the winners with 16 games

each and got admirable support from Ron Callender and Intikhab Alli with 16 each while Edmund Sammy got 13.

The top players for Canal Six were skipper Ramroop ‘Spoon’ Sukhai with 14 games and Andy Sukhai 13 while for Zeeluigt, Govinda

Ram (15), Robin Persaud (14) and Tavendra Mangru (14) were the best players. Zeelugt’s Ameer Khan was the lone lovebird. At the presentation ceremony, which followed, Mrs Sawh, who is also Guyana’s Honorary Consul General in Toronto, Canada, commended the teams for their participation and showered praise on the organisers for staging the competition on an annual basis. Apart from the winning and first runner-up trophies, MVP Hicken, who shared the lone love, was also the recipient of a prize. The runner-up trophy was sponsored by Trophy Stall. Sawh, a former Minister

of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock, died under tragic circumstances on April 22, 2006 and a minute’s silence was observed for his passing prior to the commencement of the tournament. Among those responsible for the staging of the tournament are United States-based Guyanese Mark Dookhan who served as driver to the late minister, Sahadeo Mahabali, Vishnu Persaud, Bibi Ali and Indra Jagmohan. The organisers would also like to take the opportunity to express sincere thanks to the proprietor of Ernest Shop for allowing the venue to host the tournaments over the years.

BCCI reputation lowest in 80 years - Manohar By Sharda Ugra FORMER BCCI president Shashank Manohar has said he was “disillusioned” by the happenings at the BCCI’s emergent working committee meeting on Sunday, which picked a three-member panel to investigate the IPL corruption scandal as directed by India’s Supreme Court. Manohar, who served as BCCI president from 2008 to 2011, attended the meeting as a special nominee of the Vidarbha Cricket Association, which is a member of the BCCI working committee. Manohar told ESPNcricinfo he had gone to the meeting “with a particular purpose, to help handle this crisis. The Board’s reputation is the lowest that it has been in the 80 years since it was founded. The situation needed to be cleaned up.” Manohar would say no more about the meeting, at which the names of RK Raghavan, JN Patel and Ravi Shastri were picked for the BCCI panel to be presented to the Supreme Court for its next hearing today. The BCCI is yet to officially announce the names, however, with BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel saying they could not be revealed “considering

Shashank Manohar says he attended the meeting with the purpose of helping the board handle its current crisis.

the sanctity of the court.” Manohar has been critical of how the BCCI has handled the IPL case, saying on Friday that “nothing has moved in the last one year” because the Board lacked leaders to take on Srinivasan “who is shamelessly and stubbornly sticking to his chair.” It is understood that in addition to Raghavan, Patel and Shastri, four more names were discussed: former Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee, Justice Mukul Mudgal, who headed the Courtappointed committee to look into the IPL 2013 corruption scandal, L Nageshwar Rao, the additional solicitor general of India who was also part of the Mudgal committee and BCCI interim president

Shivlal Yadav. While the names of Patel, Shastri and Raghavan were brought to vote, those of Mudgal and/or Rao and Chatterjee were not. There is some discrepancy over the number of people - either 11 or 14 - who supported Raghavan’s name at the meeting, where all proceedings were recorded in audio. The selection of both Raghavan and Shastri can be questioned for separate reasons. Raghavan, who headed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) during the match-fixing inquiry in 2000, was one of the 52 people who were deposed before the Mudgal committee. Should he be a part of the BCCInominated panel to look into the case, he will have gone from being witness to judge in the same case. Shastri is a paid employee of the BCCI, in his capacity as commentator. He is also a member of the governing council, and, according to the website on Monday morning, part of two of the IPL’s four committees, and will personally know most of the individuals who are to be investigated, including BCCI president N. Srinivasan. In order to explain Shastri’s contentious inclusion, Patel had said that the Bombay High Court, in an order in 2013, had said any

BCCI probe committee needed to include one member from the Code of Behaviour committee under the IPL Operational Rules. The last BCCI-appointed panel to look into the IPL corruption scandal was declared illegal by the Bombay High Court, with differing explanations about its formation. Last week, the two-judge Supreme Court bench consisting of Justice AK Patnaik and FM Ibrahim Kalifullah, asked the BCCI to revert with “constructive, corrective” measures with regard to how it can ensure a free and fair probe. The court said it did not want to infringe on the “institutional autonomy” of the BCCI by ordering an independent probe and said: “We are not inclined to do it (hand the case over to the CBI) ... But if we are compelled we will do it.” The case dates back to June 2013 when the Cricket Association of Bihar secretary Aditya Verma raised charges of conflict of interest in the formation of BCCI’s two-member inquiry panel into the IPL corruption issue. After the Bombay High Court declared the panel illegal, the BCCI and the CAB filed petitions in the Supreme Court against this order; with the CAB

contending that the Bombay High Court could have suggested a fresh mechanism to look into the corruption allegations. The Supreme Court then appointed a three-member committee, headed by former High Court judge Mukul Mudgal, and comprising additional solicitor general L Nageswara Rao and Nilay Dutta, in October 2013, to conduct an independent inquiry into the allegations

of corruption against Srinivasan’s son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan, India Cements, and Rajasthan Royals team owner Jaipur IPL Cricket Private Ltd, as well as with the larger mandate of allegations around betting and spotfixing in IPL matches and the involvement of players. The committee had submitted its findings to the court on February 10. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Moin named Pakistan’s team manager and chief selector

Former Test captain Moin Khan KARACHI, Pakistan (Reuters) - Former Test captain Moin Khan was handed the dual role of Pakistan’s team manager and chief selector yesterday.

The 42-year-old served as head coach in the recent Asia Cup and World Twenty20 tournaments. “Given his vast experience Moin has now been given the responsibilities of chief selector and manager,” the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement. It is the first time the board has handed the two roles to the same individual. Former wicketkeeper-batsman Moin, who played 69 Tests and 219 one-day internationals, was appointed chief selector last year but was not allowed to take up the position due to a court order. “It is a big honour and a challenge,” he said. “I will be under the spotlight.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

Windwards storm into Headley/Weekes Trophy final after crushing T&T by 234 runs PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Windward Islands stormed into the final of the Regional Four-Day Championship yesterday, crushing Trinidad and Tobago by 234 runs inside three

days at Queen’s Park Oval and announcing themselves as legitimate contenders for the Headley/Weekes Trophy. They were propelled by left-arm seamer Kenroy Peters who produced amazing

Headley/Weekes Trophy semi-final scoreboard WINDWARDS vs T&T WINDWARDS 1st innings 248 T&T 1st innings 140 WINDWARDS 2nd innings (o/n 88 for two) D. Smith c Emrit b Mohammed 63 T. Theophile lbw b Emrit 11 J. Charles c Hosein b Jaipaul 11 S. Ambris c wkp. Ramdin b Emrit 13 K. Lesporis c wkp. Ramdin b Khan 26 R. Currency stp. Ramdin b Khan 10 L. Sebastien not out 33 M. Mathew c Bravo b Khan 4 K. Peters c Mohammed b Khan 17 D. Johnson c Bravo b Jaipaul 7 N. Pascal c wkp. Ramdin b Khan 17 Extras: (b-9, lb-7, nb-3) 19 Total: (all out, 68.2 overs) 231 Fall of wickets: 1-45, 2-60, 33-88, 4-113, 5-148, 6-150, 7-182, 8-205, 9-212. Bowling: Gabriel 9-2-27-0, Richards 4-1-8-0, Simmons 1-02-0, Emrit 11-4-35-2, Jaipaul 11-2-35-2, Khan 13.2-3-46-5, Mohammed 9-2-21-1, Hosein 10-0-41-0. T&T 2nd innings (Target: 340) L. Simmons c wkp. Charles b Peters 31 E. Lewis lbw b Peters 17 DM Bravo c Lesporis b Mathew 8 J. Mohammed c wkp. Charles b Peters 12 A. Hosein run-out 4 D. Ramdin c wkp. Charles b Peters 7 R. Emrit lbw b Peters 2 I. Khan c Currency b Peters 7 M. Richards c Lesporis b Peters 0 S. Gabriel lbw b Mathew 5 R. Jaipaul not out 0 Extras: (b-8, lb-1, nb-3) 12 Total: (all out, 29.2 overs) 105 Fall of wickets: 1-50, 2-59, 3-59, 4-80, 5-80, 6-87, 7-90, 8-90, 9-105. Bowling: Mathew 12-5-16-2, Johnson 4-1-20-0, Pascal 3-0-24-0, Peters 10.2-5-36-7. Points: Windwards 15, T&T 3. BARBADOS vs JAMAICA BARBADOS 1st innings 245 JAMAICA 1st innings 302 BARBADOS 2nd innings (o/n 18 for one) K. Brathwaite c wkp. Baugh b Jacobs 32 O. Phillips c wkp. Baugh b Cotterell 2 S. Hope b Taylor 22 J. Carter c Jacobs b Miller 111 K. Stoute stp. Baugh b Jacobs 8 S. Dowrich c Lambert b Cotterell 20 C. Brathwaite c Campbell b Miller 7 A. Nurse c Campbell b Miller 2 S. Benn c Blackwood b Taylor 8 F. Edwards not out 0 M. Cummins c wkp. Baugh b Taylor 0 Extras: (b-4, lb-1, w-2, nb-4) 11 Total: (all out, 69.3 overs) 223 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-40, 3-100, 4-123, 5-172, 6-204, 7-214, 8-223, 9-223. Bowling: Taylor 14.3-1-37-3 (nb-1); Cotterell 12-0-31-2 (w1); Miller 17-0-52-3; Bernard 6-2-17-0 (w-1); Blackwood 2-0-12-0; Jacobs 13-1-50-2 (nb-3); Campbell 2-0-5-0; Lambert 3-0-14-0. JAMAICA 2nd innings (target: 167) N. Bonner c Carter b Benn 0 J. Campbell c C. Brathwaite b Benn 10 J. Blackwood not out 53 A. McCarthy not out 41 Extras: (nb2) 2 Total: (2 wkts, 25 overs) 106 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-20. Bowling: Edwards 3-1-9-0; Benn 10-0-46-2; Nurse 5-0-290; C. Brathwaite 2-0-3-0; Carter 2-0-9-0; Cummins 2-0-9-0 (nb-2); K. Brathwaite 1-0-1-0 Position: Jamaica need 61 more to win with eight second innings wickets standing Umpires: P. Nero, J. Wilson

career-best figures of seven for 36 as T&T, set 340 for victory, meekly collapsed for 105 all out, approximately 45 minutes before the close. Only West Indies opener Lendl Simmons, who struck a fluent 31 from 33 balls with seven fours, managed to get past 20, as wickets tumbled spectacularly with seamer Mervin Mathew supporting with two for 16. What made the emphatic nature of the victory more remarkable was the fact Windwards were once again without their champion West Indies off-spinner Shane Shillingford who sat out the game battling a bout of flu. The Windwards will now await the winner of the other semi-final between Barbados and Jamaica, currently under way at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, with the final set for next Saturday. Earlier, the Windwards

Windwards left-arm seamer Kenroy Peters achieves amazing career-best figures of seven for 36.

were dismissed for 231, about half-hour after lunch, after re-

suming the day on 88 for two. Prolific left-handed opener Devon Smith top-scored with 63, captain Liam Sebastien got 33 not out while Keddy Lesporis hit 26. Leg-spinner Imran Khan finished with five for 46 while left-arm spinner Ricky Jaipaul and seamer Rayad Emrit both claimed two for 35. T&T struck early in the day when they removed Sunil Ambris for his overnight 13 with no addition to the score, but Smith pushed on from his 44 at the start to complete his 41st first-class half-century, and see the Windwards past 100. He eventually fell after 130 minutes at the crease. He faced 110 balls and struck nine fours. Lesporis and Sebastien then assumed responsibility for the innings. Lesporis, who faced 51 balls and struck two fours, put on 35 for the fifth wicket with Romel Currency (10) be-

fore Sebastien added 32 more runs for the sixth wicket with Mathew (4). Peters hit two fours in 17 and Nelon Pascal hammered two fours and a six in an identical score down the order, as the Windwards set T&T a difficult target. T&T then raised hopes of pulling off a splendid run chase when Simmons and Evin Lewis (17) put on a breezy 50 off 57 balls for the first wicket. But once Simmons was caught behind off Peters, T&T lost wickets in clusters as their last nine wickets crashed for just 46 runs. With a big innings needed from Darren Bravo, the West Indies left-hander once again failed when he edged Peters to Lesporis at second slip for eight and when Lewis misjudged one from Peters, offered no stroke and was lbw, T&T were reeling at 60 for three at tea.

Jamaica eye victory despite Carter’s hundred BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – An unbroken, half-century third-wicket stand between Jermaine Blackwood and Andre McCarthy put Jamaica within sight of victory and overshadowed Jonathan Carter’s second first-class hundred, in the Headley/Weekes Trophy semi-final here yesterday. Blackwood was not out on 53 and McCarthy was not out on 41, as the Jamaicans reached 106 for two in their second innings at the close on third day of the match at Kensington Oval, still 61 adrift of victory. The pair has so far added 86 in an unbroken third-wicket partnership to put the visitors firmly on track for a win that would give them a place in the Final of the tournament against Windward Islands. The Final is scheduled to start on Saturday and the venue is likely to be the Beausejour Cricket Ground in St Lucia, once the Jamaicans complete victory. Carter hit 111 and was the rock upon which Barbados built their second innings total of 223. He struck eight fours and one six from 167 balls in close to four hours. The 26-year-old lefthander reached his hundred from 150 balls, when he drove Jerome Taylor to mid-off for a single.

He added 60 for the third wicket with Barbados captain Kraigg Brathwaite, and shared valuable stands of 49 with Shane Dowrich and 32 with Carlos Brathwaite. Kraigg Brathwaite made 32, Shai Hope got 22 and Dowrich 20, as the only other Barbadian batsman to pass 20. Taylor was the pick of the Jamaica bowlers with three for 37 from 14.3 overs, left-arm spinner Nikita Miller grabbed three for 52 from 17 overs, left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cotterell bagged two for 31 from 12 overs and leg-spinner Damion Jacobs snared two for 50 from 13 overs. Jamaica then lost Nkrumah Bonner in the second over, when he was caught at second slip for a duck off beanpole left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn (2-46), who also had John Campbell caught at mid-on for 10, leaving Jamaica 20 for two. But McCarthy came to the crease and with Blackwood played an attractive array of strokes to advance the Jamaicans’ position. McCarthy was fortunate on two, when Ashley Nurse put him down at first slip off Benn, a chance for which the Barbadians paid dearly. Blackwood, striking the ball crisply, started with a lofted straight six off Benn and reached his 50 from 71 balls

Jonathan Carter celebrates reaching his hundred on the third day of the semi-final between Barbados and Jamaica at Kensington Oval.

with an exquisite back-foot drive through extra cover off Miguel Cummins. Earlier, Barbados were bowled out about half-hour after tea, after they started the day on 18 for one. The hosts suffered an early setback to their plans of setting Jamaica a challenging total to chase, when Shai Hope was bowled by Taylor for 18 inside the first half-hour, leaving Barbados 40 for two. Carter came to the crease

and with his captain consolidated, but the wicket of Brathwaite in the last 15 minutes before lunch inflicted further damage to Barbados’ plans. Jacobs drew Brathwaite onto the front foot and had him caught at slip, edging a sharply turning delivery. After lunch, Carter’s batting held centre stage, as he gradually got the cobwebs out of his batting. He stroked the ball with crisp assurance, rotating the strike with wristy stroke-play punctuated by the odd big shot. There was less stability at the other end however, as Kevin Stoute ill-advisedly succumbed to a rush of blood, charged down the pitch at a delivery from Jacobs and was stumped for eight, missing an ugly slog/sweep. Barbados were 123 for four, but Carter found Dowrich and Carlos Brathwaite more level-headed allies, as he inched his way nearer to his milestone. Dowrich was caught at slip by Jamaica captain Tamar Lambert off left-arm pacer Sheldon Cotterell for 20, edging a delivery angled across him, two balls after the same fielder dropped him in the same position off the same bowler with a similar delivery.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday April 22, 2014

ECC answers Dr Anthony’s call and unveils centenary magazine By Calvin Roberts EARLIER this year, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony challenged the executive members of Everest Cricket Club (ECC), who are currently celebrating their centennial anniversary, to chronicle the history of the club so that others can see where it came from in times past. Dr Anthony issued the challenge while delivering some brief remarks at a special symposium, organised by the Club and given the support of the Ministry of Sport, where UK-based Professor Clem Seecharran was lecturing on the topic, ‘The History of Everest Cricket Club’. Last Thursday, the club heeded Dr Anthony’s challenge and unveiled a 100-page full colour souvenir magazine in the presence of Dr Anthony, head of the Guyana Olympic Association K. Juman-Yassin and other

special invitees, to further commemorate the club’s centennial anniversary celebrations at its Camp Road pavilion. Dr Anthony, who delivered feature remarks before being presented with his copy along with another copy for the archives of the recently opened National Resource Centre, lauded those affiliated with the publication for their sterling effort, adding that the documentation of history is critical if the next generation is to appreciate where they came from. “Many young persons are not enlightened on the history of the club, hence the importance of having such a document printed would bring them up to date,” said Dr Anthony, who also commended the club and its executives for standing strong over the years, adding that 100 years is a tremendous achievement. He suggested that the club should embark on a booklet

President of Everest Cricket Club, Stephen Lewis (left), presents Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony with his copy of the Club’s 100th Anniversary Souvenir Magazine, following the unveiling in the Club’s pavilion.

that captures its history in photographs as that will also help to give society a better understanding on what transpired decades ago, while promising to work along with the club, even as he called for strong club structure and leadership to ensure it achieves another 100 years. President of the club, Stephen Lewis, said the realisation of such a

magazine is just one of many activities the club has planned to celebrate its 100th anniversary. “We have cultivated a rich and interesting history over the years, and so this magazine is intended to expose you and other readers to an extract of that history, as is stated on the cover of the magazine, highlights of our history,” said Lewis.

Barbadian Jones wraps up CARIFTA career with double gold FORT-DE-FRANCE, Martinique (CMC) – Akela Jones of Barbados won her second gold medal of the 43rd CARIFTA Games here yesterday, bringing the curtain down on an outstanding career at the region’s premier track and field youth championship. Jones, who celebrates her 19th birthday today, won the Under-20 girls’ high jump with a clearance of 1.84 metres to follow up her capture of the long jump on Saturday night. “It’s time now to step out on the bigger level. It’s a level I know I had to finish sometime,” Jones said. She said she would now continue preparation for the World Junior Championships in Eugene, United States, in July. Jamaica’s Safia Morgan was second to Jones with a clearance of 1.78m and Morgan Edvige of Martinique took the bronze with a leap of 1.65m. Jones was joined in winners’ row by Dominica’s Shanee Angol who captured gold in the girls’ Under-18 javelin with a throw of 49.66 metres. Hayley Matthew of Barbados picked up the silver with 43.17m and Cayman Islands’ Daneliz Thomas took bronze with 39.59 Yanis Esmeralda David of Guadeloupe, meanwhile, followed

Barbadian Akela Jones nabs her second gold of the 43rd CARIFTA Games

up her triumph in the girls’ Under-18 long jump with another golden performance in the triple jump. She measured 13.10m to beat Axelle Eugenie of Martinique (12.34) and Shanique Wright of Jamaica (12.26). Jamaican Demar Gayle emerged as the Under-20

boys shot put champion when he threw 16.72 metres, enough to get the better of Trinidad & Tobago’s Kenejah Williams (16.55) and Romario Antoine of Barbados (16.42). The region’s premier track and field youth games ended later yesterday.

Publisher Vickram Singh explained the genesis of the magazine, which has on its cover three generations of cricketers from Everest, namely Rohan Kanhai, Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Tagenarine Chanderpaul, highlighting the past, present and future of the club. He said the idea was born out of a desire to have the club’s history documented in a chronological manner and lauded all those who contributed to the compilation of the publication, pointing out that it was indeed a challenging task. Petamber Persaud, one of the editors of the magazine, explained that there is much more to Everest history than what is captured in the publication, noting that many persons were reluctant to share whatever information they had on the club for reasons unknown. He stated that it was a challenging project, but the

end product is surely one that should be cherished and applauded the efforts of those who supplied the necessary information they had on the club, in order to make the magazine a success story. The magazine captures the history of the club in four parts: 1914 to 1959, 1960 to 1989, 1990 to 1999 and 2000 to 2014, while there are several interesting pieces published which are thought to be a precursor to a book which the club has in mind to publish sometime in the nottoo-distant future. Those who came in for high praise for contributing to the magazine were Persaud, Oscar Phillips, Rajesh Singh, Chris Persaud, Navin Chandrapal, Zaheer Mohamed, Selena Khan, Kenty Khan, Ronald Williams, Professor Clem Seecharran, Derek Kallicharran, Leana Bradshaw, Whitney Persaud, Kaycia Bower, Vanie Beepat and Calvin Roberts.

GRASSROOTS FOUNDATION INTER-WARD KNOCKOUT

North/South Ruimveldt beat Sophia 4-3 in quarter-final clash NORTH/SOUTH RUIMVELDT overcame Sophia 4-3 in their quarterfinal matchup of the inaugural Grassroots Foundation Inter-Ward Knockout tourney, which was concluded at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, last Sunday night. Sophia took the lead in the 3rd minute of the contest, as Shemroy Arthur finished to the back of the net after pouncing on a loose ball following a mix-up between the eventual victors’ custodian and one of his defenders inside the penalty box. However, Trevon Lythcott scored the equaliser for North/South Ruimveldt in the 14th minute with a penalty kick conversion, before Sophia reclaimed the lead seven minutes later through a Kwesi Rolston strike to the left hand side of the net from inside the penalty box. The momentum of the game then shifted as Arthur was given marching orders by the referee for his second bookable offence, after he showed dissent to a decision made by the official.

With the one mad advantage, North/ South Ruimveldt would then take advantage of the situation, netting through a Travis Thornhill sliced effort from the right side of the box that sailed over the head of the keeper and into the left hand side of the net. Not to be outdone, Sophia who fought tooth and nail with their opponents despite the one-man advantage, stunned the North/South Ruimveldt side as they took the lead in the 79th minute through a Kwesi Lewis rightfooted strike from outside the centre of the box. North/South Ruimveldt levelled the scores six minutes before the conclusion of normal time through a Dwayne Lawrence strike to the left side of the goal after fortuitously receiving a deflected shot inside the box. And it was Lawrence who eventually grabbed the winning goal in the 100th minute of extra time with a strike to the lower left-hand side of the goal following a cross from the right side of the field, much to the delight of his teammates.

Sport CHRONICLE

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Suriname Easter International Badminton Tournament

Priyanna Ramdhani misses gold in singles, but claims it in doubles

MULTIPLE Female badminton champion Priyanna Ramdhani missed out on gold medal in the Girls Under-19 Singles category of the Suriname Annual Easter International Tournament, which continued at the Walter Amo Sports Hall in Paramaribo last Sunday, with matches in the Under-15 and U-19 events. The Guyanese who are all playing in the higher age group events continued to do extremely well on the final day against their bigger opponents by reaching the semifinals and finals

- especially the 12-year-old Priyanna who played in the Under-15 and U-19 events. Players like Priyanna and her brother Narayan had to play five matches each on the final day but were able to stand up to the pressure, with the Guyanese collecting a total of 11 trophies. Priyanna teamed up with Suriname’s Shemara Lindvelt to defeat Imani Mangroe and Stacy (PLEASE SEE PAGE 23)

CARIFTA silver medal for Kadecia Bair

A SILVER medal from Kadecia Baird and a possible bronze medal from the girls’ Under-18 4x400m team were yesterday added to Guyana’s medal takings at the 43rd CARIFTA Games, which came to a close last evening in Fort-de-France, Martinique. Running 23.13 seconds, Baird came in just behind the 23.10 seconds dash that handed first place to Trinidad’s Kayelle Clarke. Baird ousted Jamaican Kedisha Dallas settling her 23.69 seconds sprint to third place. In the girls’ 4x400m relay final the Guyanese team, comprising Avon Samuels, Jevina Sampson, Cassey George and Natricia Hooper, won a possible bronze in a time of 3:46.23s, which followed the earlier 3:45.20s that the girls ran when they won their heats and qualified for the final. But up to press time Chronicle Sport learnt that the winners of this race was still to be decided KADECIA BAIRD George already has two gold medals from her wins in the girls U-18 1500m and the girls’ open 3 000, while Baird has a gold from the girls’ U-20 400m. In other results for Guyana, Hooper finished seventh in the triple jump final leaping a distance of 12.12m. Jason Yaw came second in heat four in the boys’ U-18 200m, before ending sixth in the final. In the heats Yaw clocked 21.83s ending just behind Bahamas Javan Martin who ran 21.63s. Meanwhile, Kade Pearce finished seventh in the boys’ U-20 high jump clearing a maximum distance of 1.80m, the event was won by Jamaica’s Clayton Brown (2.16m).

Injured Bravo to miss rest of IPL

The Guyana badminton team, who competed in the recently concluded Suriname Easter International Championships, proudly display their spoils after receiving same on the final day of the tournament.

GCB to host Double-Wicket tournament at Albion

-$500,000 to male winner and $100,000 for females

THE DRUBAHDUR steward Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has targeted the Albion Community Centre ground as their venue for their next event, a 24 teams two day Double-Wicket tournament set for Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th May respectively. According to a press release sent from the desk of the GCB’s Marketing Manager Raj Singh, the board is targeting 16 Male and 8 female teams who will be asked to pay an entrance fee of $40,000 and $10,000 respectively, even as the respective winner’s purse would be $500,000 and $100,000 each. The runners-up in each category would pocket $200,000 and $50,000 each, while incentive prizes will be

paid for sixes to the top five male and top three female six hitters respectively, Most Catches, Best Five Fielders and run outs on a formula to be decided. In addition to the above, the GCB will provide the fielders, umpires, meals for each day, refreshments, scorers, announcers, promotion and marketing of event and other officials, with matches set to start at 10:00hrs on the first day and 13:00hrs on the second which will host the quarterfinals, semifinals and finals, slated to be contested under lights. No fielding restrictions will be in place but other standard cricket rules will apply and at the completion (PLEASE SEE PAGE 23)

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DWAYNE Bravo, the West Indies and Chennai Super Kings all-rounder, is set to be sidelined for at least four weeks due to a shoulder problem. Bravo sustained the injury when attempting a catch on the boundary in Super Kings’ first match of the season, against Kings XI Punjab on Friday. Ahead of the match against Delhi Daredevils, MS Dhoni, the Super Kings captain, said Bravo would be out for “4-5 weeks”. “Sad that he won’t be part of the dressing room, hope he recovers soon,” Dhoni said. Dwayne Bravo’s absence leaves Bravo was one of the Super Kings short on five players retained by all-rounders. Super Kings this season, after a strong show in 2013 when he took a league-leading 32 wickets. He played every match for Super Kings last season, and was expected to be among the first picks for the side this year as well. He came into this tournament after a World Twenty20 in which he had been in sparkling form with the bat. Super Kings have usually preferred to have several overseas all-rounders in their line-up, but in Bravo’s absence they are lacking a foreign player who can turn the game with both bat and ball. (ESPN Cricinfo) TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2014