Guyana chronicle 26 02 14

GUYANA No. 103751

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 26, 2014

After 34 years...

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Commission APNU of Inquiry DESPERATE into Rodney’s death sworn in Standing Minister Edghill says…

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– debunks Harmon’s accusation that Town Hall meetings were staged

WALTER RODNEY

Order conflict a ‘grey 8 area’ Page

RAPHAEL TROTMAN

- according to House Speaker Raphael Trotman

Select Committee meets today

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‘SWORN IN’: President Donald Ramotar with, from left, Senior Counsel Seenauth Jairam, Sir Richard Cheltenham and Queen’s Counsel Jacquelene Samuels-Brown (Sonell Nelson photo)

- CFATF ‘drop dead’ date two days away

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

After 34 years...

Commission of Inquiry into Rodney’s death sworn in

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally MEMBERS of the international Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the death of the late Dr. Walter Rodney were sworn in yesterday by His Excellency President Donald Ramotar.

The commission is head-

ed by Barbadian Queen’s Counsel (QC), Sir Richard Cheltenham; Guyana-born Senior Counsel Seenauth Jairam, who has been practising in Trinidad and Tobago since 1979, and Jamaican QC Jacquelene Samuels-Brown.

The parliamentary motion to provide for the establishment of the CoI said: “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

President Donald Ramotar and Sir Richard Cheltenham after signing the commission documents. 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 occa-

sion of the 25th anniversary of his untimely and tragic death, supports an enquiry being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Rodney.”

It has been 34 years since Dr. Rodney met his demise, and nine years since Parliament had unanimously approved a motion to establish a commission to enquire into the circumstances surrounding his death.

President Ramotar said: “We have just sworn in the Commission to look into the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr. Walter Rod-

ney and hope that it can, finally, bring a conclusion to the issues surrounding the death of Rodney.”

Sir Richard Cheltenham, Chairman of the Commission, said: “The death of Dr. Walter Rodney took place on June 13, 1980. It has certainly been a long time since Rodney’s alleged assassination occurred.”

He posited that a CoI, at this juncture, may not yield much in relation to the assertion of facts. “There are over 100 witnesses to testify and it is too early to indicate, precisely, when the hearing will see page 9

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

PPP calls on Opposition to back AML/CFT Bill

By Vanessa Narine GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Mr. Clement Rohee, yesterday called upon the political Opposition to act responsibly, in the interest of its constituents, as well as all Guyanese and commit to the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill.

Speaking at a press conference at his party’s Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown headquarters, he said: “The party calls on the Opposition to commit itself to all aspects of our nation’s development and to put our country first, so that the well-being of all Guyanese can continue to be safeguarded.

“We urge the Opposition to mobilise its members and supporters to support the various initiatives the Government is undertaking to, continuously, carve a better and brighter Guyana.”

Rohee, in addition to the AML/CFT Bill, made reference to several other Government interventions including environmental campaigns, legislation tabled in parliament and, of note, several security initiatives that the Opposition is urged to support.

The latter includes fighting crime and drug trafficking; the

efforts to prevent smuggling and contraband across our borders; the efforts to combat human trafficking; the fight against lawlessness in an effort to maintain peace and good order; the

Government’s violent protection action plan.

“A lack of support in this regard has the potential to create a negative influence for investors.

Over the years the Government

the current challenges faced, the need for all to give support, including the Opposition and its supporters, is crucial,” Rohee emphasised.

Among the environmental

PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

Opposition Leader David Granger

prevention of squatting and the destruction of Government reserves and public property.

He said: “We would like to reiterate that the welfare and well-being of our people remain the PPP/C Administration’s developmental thrust.

has worked tirelessly to create an enabling environment, so that investors can continue to enjoy stability which is critical to their investments.”

Legislation cited by the general secretary are initiatives including the Firearms Amendment Bill and other recent measures Government initiated to combat crime and aid in national security.

“All Guyanese would be better served if these efforts are supported and not be used for divisive purposes. Given

campaigns, he referred to are the anti-littering ‘Pick It Up’ drive and the Stray Catchers programme, which, he stated, have not only had a positive impact on the aesthetics of our surroundings, but also assisted in creating a healthier environment and safer roadways, respectively.

“Similarly, support for the campaign to protect our mangroves which help to mitigate the harsh consequences of climate change must be encour-

UTMOST IMPORTANCE “It is, therefore, of utmost importance that the Opposition ensures that its members and supporters support the

Select Committee meets today - CFATF ‘drop dead’ date two days away

By Vanessa Narine

THE Parliamentary Special Select Committee reviewing the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill is scheduled to meet today at 5:00pm.

And with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force’s (CFATF) advisor, Roger Hernandez, having made clear that Friday, February 28, is the “drop dead” date for Guyana to enact the Bill, the positions of the combined Opposition has not changed.

Leader of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), David Granger, as recent as Monday, was quoted in a media report maintaining that “APNU’s position is unchanged; we would continue to insist that the essential amendments are inserted into the Bill.”

The three referenced amendments seek to: change the entire governing apparatus of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU); remove the Attorney

General wherever that name appears and replace it with the FIU; and vest a police officer or customs officer with a power to seize currency from any person, anywhere in Guyana, if those officers have reason to believe that the currency is the proceeds of crime or will be used to finance crime.

The Alliance For Change (AFC) position reflects a similar stance, in that the party is also maintaining its initial position on the matter; that the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) be established before AFC Members of Parliament approve the Bill.

Noteworthy is that neither party has objected to the provisions of the Bill itself.

HARDLINE POSITIONS Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in whose name the Bill was returned to the National Assembly, after being defeated last November, made it clear that the pronouncements by CFATF are clear.

“Government has exhausted every reasonable option available,” he stressed.

The AG stressed that the Government remains committed to meeting the new February 28 deadline, as stipulated by CFATF. “We are committed to the deadline and the Government is doing everything within its capability to meet that deadline.”

He charged that the positions held by the Opposition

parties are unreasonable, given the dire consequences that are being risked with the non-passage of the Bill.

Nandlall said, “We continue to say that the Bill, approved by

aged,” Rohee said.

He added that support for the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) by the Opposition provides an opportunity for them to demonstrate their nationalism for an initiative that has immense benefits for all.

Said he: “The LCDS has encompassed a number of projects for sustainable development, which will lead to a positive transformation of our country, among them being the Amaila Falls Hydro-electricity Project, whose economic benefits have been thoroughly articulated in the public domain. The potential it holds for the transformation of our country is indeed overwhelming.”

The General Secretary declared that the party is “rooted in the firm belief” that Guyana’s rapid development can be sustained with the support of all stakeholders.

“We, therefore, encourage the Opposition to mobilise its support behind Government’s programmes and policies.

“We believe that the interest of Guyanese would be better served if the Opposition were to re-direct their energies towards the national goals and continued prosperity of our people, instead of the negative stance they have taken on budget cuts, key development projects and security,” he said.

According to him, the PPP, since its establishment, continues to work assiduously to promote and develop a deep sense

of patriotism and nationalism.

CFATF and to which the Opposition has no objection, should be passed forthwith….this is eminently a more sensible and prudent course of action, where all sides can have their views represented.

“What their positions exemplify is an unreasonable degree of stubbornness, which cannot be rationalised on the basis on logic, common sense, national

interest or even politics.”

The AG pointed out that the deadline must be kept in focus, as Guyana should not risk missing it.

Come February 28, Guyana’s report to CFATF has to include Guyana’s plan of action to correct its deficiencies as part of the ongoing process, as well as report the conclusions on the AMLCFT (Amendment) Bill.

NATIONAL IMPERATIVE He said: “The party believes that the demonstration and practice of such patriotic values are not only a national imperative for development, but also for the unity and cohesion of the nation as a whole.”

Rohee pointed out that, as Guyana continues on its development trajectory, not only has economic growth been achieved, but all its peoples from the various social strata have been positively impacted by the benefits which have accrued through the overwhelming social and infrastructural developments.

“This is demonstrative of the commitment of the PPP/C Administration to provide a better life for all Guyanese,” he said.

Rohee said that, Guyana, having advanced from a poor country to a developing one, still has more to do to realise its potential.

To that end, he said: “It is in this context that our party remains convinced that the Opposition can endeavour to be more supportive, not only by their actions but through the responsibilities they have to their constituencies.”

Rohee reiterated his urging for the Opposition to give “genuine and tangible” backing to the developmental goals of the Government.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Obama prepared to leave no troops in Afghanistan after 2014

U.S. expels Venezuelan diplomats in tit-for-tat move over unrest (Reuters) - THE United States on Tuesday ordered three Venezuelan diplomats to leave in reprisal for President Nicolas Maduro’s expulsion of three American embassy staff accused of fomenting unrest that has killed at least 13 people.

Disputes between the ideologically opposed governments were common during the 1999-2013 rule of late socialist leader Hugo Chavez and have continued under his successor Maduro.

When it comes to oil, though, pragmatism trumps politics and the United States remains the OPEC member’s main export market.

The U.S. State Department said in a statement that two first secretaries and a second secretary at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington had been declared personae non gratae in response to Caracas’ February 17 move against the

three Americans.

“They have been allowed 48 hours to leave the United States,” it said.

Venezuela and the United States have been without ambassadors since 2008, and Maduro expelled the three last week on accusations of recruiting students to protest against him.

Washington has rejected the claims as baseless.

Despite the latest bilateral spat, however, Maduro plans to nominate a new ambassador to Washington on Tuesday to try to kick-start relations and combat what he sees as propaganda against him.

“U.S. society needs to know the truth about Venezuela,” Maduro said in the latest of his daily speeches to the nation at a meeting with state governors late on Monday.

“They (Americans) think we’re killing each other. They think we can’t go out to the

corner. They’re asking for U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. What madness! Should that happen, you and I will be out with a gun defending our territory.”

The crisis, in which more than 500 people have been arrested and about 150 injured over two weeks, has brought remonstrations from the U.S. government and attracted wider attention.

Celebrities such as Madonna and Cher have condemned Maduro.

The 51-year-old former union activist, who narrowly won a presidential election to replace Chavez last year, says international media are in league with “imperialists” abroad to project an image of chaos and repression in Venezuela.

Argentine former soccer great Diego Maradona backed that stance while signing a deal to be a commentator for Caracas-based Telesur network at the upcoming World Cup in Brazil.

“We’re seeing all the lies that the imperialists are saying and inventing. I’m prepared to be a soldier for Venezuela in whatever is required,” said Maradona, a friend of both Chavez and Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, before declaring: “Long live Chavez, long live Maduro, long live Venezuela!”

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U.S. troops investigate the site of a suicide attack on a NATO base in Zhari, west of Kandahar province, January 20, 2014. forced to abandon an earlier (Reuters) - U.S. President demand that the Afghan presia phone call on Tuesday to Barack Obama has told the dent sign the deal in weeks, not Afghan President Hamid KarPentagon to prepare for the months. zai, who has refused to sign a possibility that the United Staking out a new position, bilateral security agreement States will not leave behind the White House statement that the United States insists any troops in Afghanistan said “we will leave open the it must have before agreeing after its troop drawdown possibility of concluding a BSA to leave a contingent of troops at the end of this year, the (bilateral security agreement) behind.

White House said on Tueslater this year. However, the Defense Secretary Chuck day. longer we go without a BSA, Hagel was carrying the modiObama said he had given the more challenging it will be fied U.S. position to Brussels the order to the Pentagon in to plan and execute any U.S. for discussion during a meeting mission.” with NATO defense ministers And the longer both counthat starts on Wednesday. tries go without a security deal, “Specifically, President “the more likely it will be that Obama has asked the Pentagon any post-2014 U.S. mission to ensure that it has adequate will be smaller in scale and plans in place to accomplish an ambition,” the White House orderly withdrawal by the end statement said. of the year should the United Hagel said planning for States not keep any troops in what is known as “the zero Afghanistan after 2014,” the option” is a prudent step given White House said. that Karzai has made clear he The United States has held is unlikely to sign the security out the possibility of leaving deal. behind in Afghanistan as many “As the United States as 8,000 troops after the formal military continues to move drawdown at year’s end. These people and equipment out of troops would conduct countthe Afghan theater, our force er-terrorism operations against posture over the next several al Qaeda targets and train Afmonths will provide various ghan forces. options for political leaders in Karzai’s refusal to sign a the United States and NATO,” security deal has frustrated the Hagel said in a statement.

White House, which has been

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

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Venezuela’s Maduro criticised by party loyalist (BBC News) A SENIOR member of Venezuela’s governing United Socialist Party (PSUV) has criticised the government’s handling of recent opposition protests.

Jose Gregorio Vielma Mora - the governor of western Tachira state, where the current wave of protests began - said the deployment of troops to his region was “unacceptable”.

He also called for the release of detained student leaders.

At least 13 people have died in recent protests, officials say.

Opposition activists put the number of dead at 15, two higher than the figure given by attorney general Luisa Ortega on Monday.

In an interview with a Caracas radio station, Mr Vielma Mora said he opposed “the use of weapons and abusive behaviour at peaceful demonstrations”.

He also said that after an “excessive use of force” by the National Guard during protests in Tachira on Thursday, he had demanded the replacement of the officer in charge, Gen Noel

Bermudez Pirela.

Mr Vielma Mora did not specify which incident he was referring to, but said that a new general had since been put in charge.

The governor also said that it had been a “grave error” by the government to order military planes to fly over the state capital, San Cristobal.

“I’m against that, and it made me angry It was unnecessary to have military planes fly over San Cristobal,” he told Radio Circuito Onda.

“Why did they not ask me first? The governor knows what to say and do,” Mr Vielma Mora said.

PSUV official and Foreign Minister Elias Jaua said the party would be contacting Mr Vielma Mora to “discuss his opinions”.

Mr Jaua said Mr Vielma Mora was “entitled to express his opinions”, but stressed that “we are certain we give the right orders to our security forces, guarding human rights, not responding to provocation, and using the proportionate amount of force to protect the peace and tranquillity of our Venezuelan family”.

Tachira is one of the states in which the current wave of protests first kicked off

T&T mulls border lockdown (Trinidad Guardian) NATIONALSecurity Minister Gary Griffith has held talks with defence heads about T&T’s borders as a result of the current unrest in Venezuela, which might cause people there to flee their homeland. Protests have been occurring in Venezuela since February 12. About ten people have been killed to date, including a motorcyclist killed by a clothesline strung across a street.

Protests have continued

into this week. Government and opposition supporters blame each other for the situation. Opposition groups have accused the state of media manipulation and the Government has accused international media of fuelling tensions and Venezuelan private media of manipulating the news.

Venezuelan ambassador Coromoto Godoy, in a statement last week, said on February 14 Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro presented a

Homosexuality threatens the arts, fuels crime -Clarke (Trinidad Guardian) HOMOSEXUALITY is not only threatening the arts but is used to indoctrinate gang members, says artist LeRoy Clarke. The T&T Guardian asked Clarke to elaborate on the comment he made last week at his book launch which shocked and outraged some of his fellow artists,

members of the gay community and others. In a phone interview yesterday, Clarke related homosexuality to the increase in crime, saying young men are usually indoctrinated into gangs with homosexuality and because of the violation of their manhood use the gun as a symbol of their masculinity.

national plan for peace and cohabitation which included the disarming of violent gangs and criminals and setting up a special police and military brigade to probe, combat and neutralise drug gangs and “mercenaries sent from Colombia by paramilitary groups.” On T&T border security, Griffith noted that several years ago similar unrest in Haiti caused hundreds of people to flee to nearby Jamaica, illegally entering that country and causing tensions within the region. Griffith said: “We are looking at all matters where security for T&T is concerned. I have met the Chief of Defence Staff and other agencies on such matters that may arise out of the current situation.” He added so far there had not been any reports of people trying to flee to T&T which is seven miles across the Gulf of Paria.

Yesterday acting Foreign Affairs Minister Roodal Moonilal said his daily update from T&T’s Caracas embassy confirmed things were calm in Venezuela yesterday. “We were informed there are two groups of T&T workers in Venezuela’s oil and gas industry, totalling 30 people, and the companies they work for have contingency plans in case evacuation is necessary,” he added.

Moonilal said Government’s own contingency plan to airlift embassy and other T&T nationals was still on the table at ministerial level. Caribbean Airlines communications manager Clint Williams noted that governmental authorities said on Sunday that in the event of the evacuation of T&T staff at the Caracas embassy and other T&T nationals is necessary, CAL would be involved.

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GUYANA

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Guyanese must recognise and condemn such prostitution

Editorial

Walking on quicksand EVERY PPP/C President since 1992 has had a baptism of fire and not one has been able to concentrate energies, time and resources toward engineering the nation’s future according to the developmental path charted in successive PPP manifestos and the Poverty Reduction and National Development Strategies drafted by the Cheddi Jagan-led Government.

The political Opposition has been like the legendary albatross riding on the backs of the nation’s progress, which is evocative of ‘walking on quicksand’ for the Government; but despite this cross to bear, the transformation of Guyana’s socio-economic and infrastructural landscapes within a time span of two decades is nothing short of miraculous. In all those years, development and progress were allowed to continue and escalate because the PPP/C had a parliamentary majority.

And this is President Donald Ramotar’s greatest challenge, in that, for the first time ever, the PPP/Civic Government’s developmental trajectory is embattled in the National Assembly, with every developmental initiative being shot down by the joint Opposition (APNU and AFC). That, coupled with the Opposition’s customary extra-parliamentary destructive escapades, has tested the President’s fortitude to the limit.

However, it is in reflecting on the contributions, immense self-sacrifice, commitment to nation-building and all the attributes of Dr. Cheddi Jagan that one can recognise the genesis of that spirit to endure and prevail over the obduracy and negative dynamics of anti-developmental and anti-national forces bent on circumventing progress under a PPP/C Government, even at the cost of the welfare of their own supporters.

That spirit is and has been shaped by the heroism of Guyana’s foremost freedom-fighter and all who stood obdurately at his side over long, hard, unrelenting years of struggle, who braved and endured much to position this country on a pathway to peace, progress and prosperity. There are many laying claims to have been the founding fathers of the PPP, but it is in the party that encapsulates all that he represented and strove for that his spirit resides, and this is the inherent message sublimated in the continuation of the relentless struggle against the destructive and oppressive forces.

President Ramotar played an integral role over the years of struggle against colonialism and undemocratic forces, until the elections of 1992 heralded the dawn of a new era of freedom and progress for the Guyanese people.

During the dark years when all Guyanese were shackled by under-development and abuse, there was always the enduring hope by the party of shaping a better and brighter future for the Guyanese nation, but this current dispensation in the National Assembly has made President Ramotar’s developmental strides seem as though he is walking in a bog, mired in opportunistic grandstanding and theatrical comedy of errors, which no-one finds humorous, because the resultant somersault in Guyana’s developmental trajectory would have tragic consequences for this entire nation.

The patriots and martyrs of the freedom struggle transcended every divide. The gains and transformative demographics since general elections of October 1992 were nothing short of miraculous, but the dark forces of unpatriotic, opportunistic glory-hunters seem to be prevailing, and to all it seems that the only solution to this impasse that is stymieing and reversing national development would be early elections, so that the quicksand impeding social development and economic growth would gradually recede into clearer waters, where developmental endeavours and initiatives can flow freely into the clear waters of peace, progress and prosperity.

IF any other person was accused of the things of which Nigel Hughes has been accused, not even God would have been able to save him from the wrath of the likes of Mr. Freddie Kissoon.

In any civilized society, he would have been subject to disciplinary proceedings, and charged with criminal offences.

Over the past year, Mr. Nigel Hughes has been accused of committing a number of misconducts. Both he and his wife found themselves in a position of clear conflict of interest in the Amaila Hydroelectric Project.

He was also accused of jury tampering, which resulted in the freeing of persons accused of murdering at least 11 innocent Guyanese (Lusignan massacre).

He was accused of evidence tampering when he removed a surveillance tape at the scene of murder/robbery at a Buxton gas station. Recently, he has been embroiled in another controversy. He sold a plot of

land on which he had a mortgage, agreed to pay off the mortgage and pass transport to the purchaser within an agreed time-frame.

As a result of the non-payment of his loan, his bank foreclosed on the land. He reportedly did not even have the decency to inform the purchaser of the foreclosure proceedings in court. Now the land upon which is located the secondary department of one of Guyana’s most popular private schools has been levied upon by marshalls of the Supreme Court.

The future of over 300 young Guyanese preparing for their CXC exams has been placed in jeopardy. Recently, Hughes reported that the matter is settled. We have not heard from the other side. Having regard to his track record, Hughes is hardly believable.

Of all the wrongs of which Hughes has been accused, the one that resonated the most and sent shockwaves throughout the nation was the jury-tampering

accusation. Many commentators, organisations, groups and individual citizens called on the Guyana Bar Association and individuals such as Freddie Kissoon to make their positions on the issue known to the nation, but they were largely ignored.

The Guyana Bar Association, after a most unreasonable delay, was forced to make a statement. That statement was most disappointing. Instead of reprimanding Mr. Hughes, they sought to defend him.

As for Hughes, he remained silent, and pretended that he did nothing wrong. It was only recently he seems to have gotten the bright idea that he could defend himself from this serious allegation by blaming the director of public prosecutions(DPP).

Then suddenly, like the proverbial Rip van Winkle, Freddie Kissoon emerged from the wilderness defending Hughes, and calling on the DPP to resign. By some miracle, he conveniently regained his voice to defend

Hughes.

Hasn’t this individual, who masquerades as Guyana’s Number One moralist, finally lost whatever modicum of credibility he had. Notwithstanding the mountain of evidence about Hughes’s wrongdoings, Mr. Kissoon chose to look the other way and defend him.

The truth is that Hughes is defending Kissoon, free of cost, in the Jagdeo versus Kissoon case. So his silence against the wrongdoing of Hughes and his attack on the DPP is absolutely self-serving. At another time, when he was drinking soup at the PPP’s table, he ripped apart Hughes, in several articles, when Hughes removed the tape from the Buxton gas station. Now, he is drinking soup at Hughes’s table and sings another tune. The people of Guyana must recognise and condemn such prostitution.

REEAZ HOLLODAR

Seems Mr Granger’s already forgotten his new year resolutions ON the first day of this new year, I read all of the messages from the political parties. But what stood out for me was the message from Brigadier David Granger, Leader of the APNU. Mr Granger’s message was focused on 2014 being the ‘Year for Workers’. And he spoke of the challenges workers faced in 2013 and his wish that in

2014, “we all work together towards providing a good life for all Guyanese.”

As I reflected on Mr Granger’s words, as a public servant myself, I could relate to some of the challenges that workers face, such as the need for better labour relations, better remuneration, more jobs, better working conditions, and improved social

services.

No doubt, these were the very issues Mr Granger and his coalition of parties in the APNU campaigned on in 2011, and were successful, for the first time in our country’s history, to secure a combined Opposition majority in the House.

As a non-political person, I was concerned about how this

would work, and whether the combined Opposition (APNU and AFC) would be able to put aside the political baggage of the PNC era, and political bitterness on the part of the AFC, to work with the government to “put Guyana first” and to really “champion workers’ rights”.

Sadly, after two years of

See Page 7

Patrick Yarde the ‘puppet’, Joe Harmon the ‘bark dog’ I READ with disgust the Kaieteur News article on January 1, 2014 reporting on APNU’s ‘bark dog’, Joseph Harmon, and GPSU President Patrick Yarde attacking senior public servants Mr Clyde Roopchand and Mr Clement Sealey and former ministers and functionaries in the Ministry of Local Government Mr Clinton Collymore and Mr Harriperaud Nokta.

I am aware of the yeoman service of Collymore and Nokta in Parliament, Local Government and Hinterland Development. Nokta is particularly remembered as someone who is held in high regard by many Guyanese, and even

some in the PNC, for his intimate knowledge of Guyana’s interior and work among the Amerindians.

What I am more familiar with is the years of dedicated service to our country by senior public servants Clyde Roopchand and Clement Sealey, who have, and still do today, continued to make major contributions to the development of our country by lending their considerable experience and expertise to the Ministry of Finance and Guyana Revenue Authority.

These gentlemen have made their mark by helping to move our country forward, and have been truly professional public servants throughout the PNC

and the PPP governments, to the point where some have even accused them of having political affiliations when they were only carrying out their professional duties.

It was therefore distasteful to see, only a few hours after APNU Leader, David Granger, in his New Year Message spoke about 2014 being the ‘Year for Workers’, and his wish that in 2014, “...we all work together towards providing a good life for all Guyanese,” an article heaping scorn on two senior public servants.

Isn’t it ironic that Mr Granger gives a magnanimous speech on championing workers’ rights, but his ‘puppet’, Patrick Yarde,

and ‘bark dog’, Joe Harmon, make utterances to the contrary?

Yarde and Harmon cannot even stand in the same intellectual and professional space as Messrs Roopchand and Sealey, much less be compared with them.

There is an old saying that says, ‘Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones’. Perhaps closer attention needs to be paid to Yarde and Harmon and the role they have played in Guyana’s history and development. It would indeed be revealing and make for interesting reading, I am sure.

COLLIS SMITH

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

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PNC top brass A resounding ‘No!’ to automated electoral results ‘brite baad’ RECENTLY, an association of business persons assented to the institution of automatic vote counting in Guyana.

They want to catapult us into the 21st Century of the electronic way of doing things. That is, the voting as well as the counting of ballots, where everything is electronically done at lightning speed.

You see, the real reason for their making that suggestion is that they are tired of the violence that is associated with general elections in Guyana.

They are tired of the damage and destruction they have to endure at the hands of PNC thugs; this is the reason for their wanting to go the route of an automated vote count; they would want a speedy vote count, and equally speedy results after elections.

But, is this really going to happen? I am talking about the people of Guyana living to see the day when we will have violence-free elections. Well, I urge you, dear readers, to follow my discussion to see where we are going to go if government decide to go automation.

I begin our discussion by telling you what took place in Florida during the election to office of President George W.

Bush Jr. We are all familiar with that situation where, for 14 years, Florida went the way of electronic voting, whereby voters would vote via a machine, and the said machine counts the

ballots.

In this whole scenario of electronic voting, you have to take into account that there would be votes that the machine would reject; what we commonly call ‘spoilt’ votes.

Now, the machine did just that to the votes that it considered spoilt; those votes were not held as votes, but were simply spat out into the waste basket.

The results of that election in Florida saw the Republican Bush gaining a victory, albeit by a slim majority, and here is where the problem began.

The Democrats did not accept defeat, but immediately responded by finding fault with the machines that served them

for 14 long years.

Mark you! This has been the system of voting there for 14 years, up until the time when Bush was elected. But for the fact that a Democrat did not win, they, in turn, found fault with the voting machines.

Seeing Bush’s win was a close call! There was an automatic order for a recount of the ballots. Again, Bush came out victorious with a 54-vote lead.

The Democrats were still not content with that recount, so they did the unthinkable: They went into the trash can and began a count of rejected ballots.

This was never done before; where rejected ballots were salvaged for a recount. Hence, it constituted an illegal act.

At this stage, the Supreme Court stepped in with a ruling, putting an end to their illegal recount. It must be noted here that there was no burning and looting, nor any form of violence by the losing Democrats; just an acceptance of the harsh reality that they have lost, and that life must go on.

Fast forward to the Guyana scene: do you think the PNC/ APNU would ever accept a situation that I’ve highlighted above? Yes? Then, you certainly need to have a psychiatric check of your brain.

In the first place, they would tell their supporters that the machines were programmed to reject PNC/APNU votes.

And in the scenario mentioned above, would want to alter the rules after the results are in.

You know fully well what would come next! With a wellarmed Opposition, this will be the time of the channa bombs; the grenades and all forms of deadly incendiary devices would be unleashed on the Guyanese public.

The stark reality is that this form of voting is doomed from the very start, because you have an unyielding Opposition of bad losers. The reality of this whole affair is that you are dealing with a political party that has never accepted defeat gracefully. They will not be defeated; that’s the way the saying goes.

So, whenever that “never defeat” chant is hyped up among its supporters, there is bound to be mayhem in the streets of Georgetown.

The fact is that there is no cure for bad losers; bad losers will forever make trouble. In this regard, I urge the government to stick to what we have.

NEIL ADAMS

There’s still time to do the right thing!

IT is now a foregone conclusion that after nearly one year of the tabling of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill in Parliament, that the Opposition party, APNU, and its offshoot, the AFC, are not serious about passing that Bill.

They have lied; they have made absurd demands; they have made unreasonable recommendations; they have tried to misinform the public, more so their own supporters. They have misrepresented the consequences of Guyana being blacklisted, and in so doing, have cunningly attempted to mislead this nation into believing that they have its interest at heart.

What heartless creatures they are! They are trying to sacrifice the prosperity of an entire nation to satisfy their insatiable lust for power.

The dangers of being blacklisted have been visited and ex-

pounded upon by me in a couple of articles previously, and many writers have dealt with such dangers exhaustively, so I will not repeat it here. We cannot overemphasise the importance of this Bill! The non-passage of this Bill will cripple this nation!

The amendments proposed

by APNU, according to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) Financial Adviser, Roger Hernandez, are non-compliant with international standards, and are outside the recommendations tabled by the CFATF, therefore one needs to ask a very simple question: why is APNU and the AFC hell-bent on derailing the Bill? Will the non-passage of the Bill assist the economic development of the country?

Will the non-passage benefit the common man? Who stand to benefit if the Bill is not passed? The answer is clear: APNU, AFC and the criminals will benefit! Is it a coincidence

that they are mentioned here together?

After nearly one year, David Granger, Leader of the Opposition, wants ‘a cast iron’ (I think his choice of metal is poor) guarantee that the four Bills rejected by the President must be assented to, and only then will APNU support the Anti-Money Laundering Bill.

Is the Opposition really serious? The President has made it clear that he has rejected these Bills because of issues of constitutionality. Why did the Opposition, including the AFC, waste precious time with the Select Committee which they eventually boycotted (the AFC Leader was absent from the entire proceedings) if their objective was not to support the Bill?

APNU and the AFC have held this entire nation at ransom, even though major stakeholders in this country, the Private Sector Commission, CARICOM,

the Organisation of American States and others, and a wide cross-section of the population of this country have appealed to them to support this important Bill.

I have said it before, and I will reiterate it here: Ramjattan’s deadly antics with APNU cannot deceive this nation anymore, but there is still time to do the right thing and support this vitally important Bill. And if the AFC is serious, then they should indeed make ‘the RIGHT TURN’ for this beautiful country.

Now is not the time to be selfish! Our country is in danger! Do not be a TRAITOR or a NAMAK HARAM! If APNU and AFC truly love this country, then give her a gift on her Republic Anniversary! Support the AML/ CFT Bill!

HASEEF YUSUF AFC Councillor, Region 6

WITH reference to a Faruk Mohamed’s letter in yesterday’s edition of the Chronicle, asking the goodly Dr. Clive Thomas to explain to the nation just how the PNC plans on reducing poverty, I’d like to propose that the answer is very simple: the PNC will reduce poverty by banning food imports, and telling Guyanese to squat wherever and whenever.

In that way, they won’t have to buy imported foods and spend money on mortgages to buy a home. You can’t buy a home; you don’t pay for water and electricity.

You can’t buy a vehicle; you don’t have to pay for insurance, gas or maintenance. Squatting also means you don’t have to pay rent. Look at the money PNC-ite Guyanese will be saving!

PNC top brass brilliant bad! And men like Burnham, Hoyte, ‘Hammie’ Green, Corbin, Granger and Greenidge should be world leaders.

It’s baffling to see these brilliant, bright PNCites fighting for power in Guyana, when they could have all taken their brilliance to Canada, America and Britain and lead those nations.

T. KING

Seems Mr Granger’s already forgotten ...

From Page 6 watching the charade in Parliament, and the rhetoric from the Opposition politicians, I am very disillusioned about Guyana’s future. I ask myself, “Has the APNU and AFC done enough to work with the government to provide a good life for all Guyanese, and to champion workers’ rights? In my view, the answer to this question is a disappointing “No.” I cannot help but ask Mr Granger the following questions: How can you talk about creating job opportunities for Guyanese when you and your party vote down projects such as the Amaila Hydro Project that will create employment for Guyanese?

How can you talk about improving the social services for Guyanese when you and your party vote down projects such as the Specialty Hospital, hinterland airstrips, and improving the Timehri International Airport?

How can you talk about caring for workers’ rights when you and your party deliberately and vindictively cut budgets of key Government entities such as NCN and GINA? Spare a thought for those employees and their families, Mr Granger.

Did you think of what kind of Christmas they would have had?

Don’t you think some of them may have been your supporters as well, or is it because they work for the government makes them all anti-Opposition and

pro-PPP? How can you talk about working for a good life for all Guyanese when you and your party are subtly sending political messages to public servants in ministries and agencies to frustrate the implementation of government projects that would benefit all Guyanese?

Mr Granger, for two successive years we have seen you, as Opposition Leader, spearhead the cutting of Guyana’s budget. This is unprecedented in our country, as we have been accustomed to the Opposition lobbying for the government to allocate more funds to development initiatives. We are approaching the 2014 Budget: Will it be a repeat of the cuts?

Remember, Mr Granger, this one-seat majority has placed tremendous responsibility on you. Your actions, and not the government’s alone, determines if our country moves forward, or if we bring undue hardship to the Guyanese people. You have been part of a party, the PNC, that took our country backward. Will history be repeating itself? Mr Granger, you and your party will be judged not by the magnanimous speeches you made at the beginning of this year, but by your actions thereafter.

Only time will tell; the ball is in your court.

CHRISTOPHER PERSAUD

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Standing Order conflict a ‘grey area’

By Vanessa Narine

SPEAKER of the National Assembly, Mr Raphael Trotman, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, has acknowledged the conflict between the progress with the review of three proposed amendments to the 2009 Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ CFT) Act by the Parliamentary Select Committee and the Standing Orders governing its remit.

The Select Committee, which is reviewing the AML/ CFT (Amendment) Bill, was unable to conclude its work on the Bill, whose provisions have been unanimously supported, after the Opposition used its majority to insist that the amendments to the Principal Act are included.

THREE AMENDMENTS The three amendments seek to change the entire governing apparatus of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU); remove the Attorney General wherever that name appears

- according to House Speaker Raphael Trotman

and replace it with the FIU; and vest a police officer or customs officer with a power to seize currency from any person anywhere in Guyana, if those officers have reason to believe that the currency is the proceeds of crime or will be used to finance crime.

Standing Order 95:3 says, “The business to be transacted at every meeting of a Committee shall be confined to the matter referred to it by the Assembly and any extension or limitations thereof made by the Assembly and, in the case of a Select Committee on a Bill, to the Bill committed to it and relevant amendments.”

However, Trotman said that this conflict is a “grey area” and noted that given that the amendments have already been brought, the situation is a “wait and see” one.

“Nothing is impossible at this time…we have to now see what happens,” Trotman said.

A P N U m e m b e r, C a r l

Greenidge told this newspaper in a prior interview that his understanding of the Standing Orders is different from the contention

elements… a law is a complete document and the Bill has to be a complete document.”

RISKY AMENDMENTS Government Members of the Committee, in addition to opposing Greenidge’s views, contend that the proposed amendments are not only outside of the Committee’s remit, but are also risky.

The Caribbean Financial Action Task Force’s (CFATF) advisor Roger Hernandez, at a press briefing which followed the last meeting of the Parliamentary Select Committee, reiterated similar sentiments.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman of the Government members.

He said: “That is not my understanding of the Standing Orders and for an Act to be consistent you have to look at all the

AMENDMENTS NOW COMPLIANT He said: “The amendments (in the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill) right now are compliant with the recommendations that were made concerning Guyana’s meeting the AML/CFT standards…the

concern that we have is that the amendments being put forward may make those areas that were formally compliant, non-compliant. There is a risk with that.”

Hernandez added that APNU’s amendments are also outside of the “remit of the recommendations” made by CFATF. He said: “We have no opinion on those things because we only deal specifically with the recommendations. It’s up to the legislature to decide about those particular measures.”

The CFATF advisor stressed too that these “observations” were made known to all the Committee members for their consideration.

“This is definitely something for the parties concerned to look at,” Hernandez said.

The CFATF advisor added that his observations are confined to the amendments in their current form - an acknowledgement that they are still to be finalised.

Hernandez disclosed to members of the media that once Guyana is required to submit a report to CFATF on February 28, it must include a copy of the enacted Bill, which will, after analysis, be correlated to the deficiencies identified by the body at its November 2013 Plenary meeting, before a report is made in May 2014.

Also the report has to address Guyana’s plan of action to correct its deficiencies as part of the ongoing process, as well as report the conclusions on the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill.

Between February and May it is expected that there will be dialogue and discussions with CFATF and the current Administration with regard to the preparation of the report for the CFATF Plenary.

If the May Plenary is dissatisfied with Guyana’s progress, CFATF’s November 2013 statement already provides the decision for the country’s referral to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which meets again in June 2014.

Minister Edghill says…

APNU DESPERATE – debunks Harmon’s accusation that Town Hall meetings were staged

MINISTER in the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, has deemed as an act of desperation the Opposition’s statements that the recently concluded Town Hall meetings on the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ CFT) (Amendment) Bill were

was obvious that APNU and its members are buckling under pressure that came from their own supporters during the public meetings.

“Mr. Harmon’s statement represents the desperation that exists in the camp of the APNU, and as the Cabinet member who was tasked with the re-

New Amsterdam residents at the town hall meeting

staged, and were poorly attended.

It was reported yesterday in an online news outfit that A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member Joseph Harmon accused the administration of a ‘command performance’ and suggested that persons were paid to attend the meetings.

Three recent town hall meetings held in New Amsterdam, Linden and Bartica were all well attended, and residents freely asked questions on the Bill.

Minister Edghill, in response to the report, said it

sponsibility of organising these three meetings, I can tell you of the process that was used to sensitise the public about the activities and to encourage attendance,” he said.

Mr. Edghill pointed out that advertisements were placed on television in the various areas where the meetings were held, and were published in the newspapers showing the time and venue of each meeting. He added that telephone calls were made from his office, to the various stakeholders making them aware of the meetings.

“At no time was anyone

paid, promised to be paid, commanded, or bullied to attend, if that was the case I would like to ask Mr. Harmon if the members and known activists from his party who attended these meetings were paid by the APNU to attend the meeting,” Minister Edghill stated.

“He should say this and having been paid to attend, to carry out an unknown agenda and, having listened to members of the Government side of the Parliamentary select committee they changed their minds because none supported any of the APNU amendments,” he added.

The minister noted too, that all three meetings which he himself attended, many APNU activists were not only present, but were very vocal in airing their views, none of which supported the amendments put forwards by the APNU. Minister Edghill said there was no attempt to put a ‘spin’ on the amendments during any of the meetings, as was also suggested by Mr. Harmon.

“We took to the people exactly what were the amendments, we did not go to the area where the PPP/C has a stronghold, and despite the Regional Chairman being on radio on the day of the Linden meeting suggesting that our meeting was off there was a large turnout at the Watooka House,” he stated.

With respect to Mr. Harmon’s statement that the meetings were poorly attended, Minister Edghill said this was far from the truth and Mr. Harmon must be getting inaccurate

reports.

“Mr. Harmon is a man who is known to have had some involvement in the intelligence community in the past, but it would appear that his sources have become very unreliable or they are telling him what he wants to hear. All meetings were well attended”.

The minister added that from all indications, APNU is

Linden residents at the town hall meeting at the Watooka House feeling the impact because; it is their own supporters who are saying they are not in support of the amendments, and are calling for the passage of the bill.

The AMLCFT Bill has been a contentious issue for

more than 10 months, and while there has been no support from APNU for its passage, efforts are still being made to make Guyana compliant with the International Financial requirements.

Rohee declares…

Minister Singh’s accident a Police matter GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr. Clement Rohee made it clear, yesterday, that the involvement of Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh in a road accident on Sunday night is “strictly” a Police matter.

In his capacity as Home Affairs Minister, he reiterated the view and declined to comment further.

Rohee was speaking at a press conference in the party’s Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown headquarters.

According to media reports, Dr Singh’s vehicle collided with a car at Garnett Street and Delph Avenue, Campbellville, also in the city, resulting in the taxi driver and a passenger suffering minor injuries.

Both occupants of the other vehicle are, reportedly, doing well but there has since been no comment from the Minister on the accident, particularly as it relates to claims that he left the scene of the accident without following certain protocols. (Vanessa Narine)

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana…

Opposition deals Regions 7, 8 a resounding slap in the face - after taking their votes to make up one-seat majority

OLD Kai knew that it was just a matter of time before communities and regions which largely supported the political Opposition in the last elections would begin to feel the effects of their authoritarian nature.

In all fairness to the AFC and APNU, they did warn all Guyanese early in 2012 that in their mindset, we were all just ‘collateral damage’.

Now fast-forward to 2014, where the Opposition is proposing the introduction of an amendment to the Anti-Money Laundering law, whereby “police and customs officers will be given the power to stop and search persons, and if such persons are found with $2 million worth of currency or more, that currency can be seized, and the persons arrested if the police or customs officer has reasonable suspicion that it is the proceeds of some serious offence or the subject of money laundering.”

Further, we are told by the Attorney-General, Mr Anil Nandlall, that currency is defined in the Legislative Act to include jewellery and precious metals.

Clearly, a majority of the population who traditionally

invest their money in jewellery and keep their small savings at home will become potential targets with this outrageous proposal of the opposition’s. But more specifically, there are certain demographics which stand to be affected more than others, and where their way of life and future economic viability will be seriously threatened.

With this in mind, residents and businesses operating in areas such as Regions 7 and 8, which are traditional gold and diamond-mining areas, will no doubt begin to grasp the dangers of such a proposal by the APNU, which the AFC has not seen fit to oppose.

Millions in cash and gold change hands every day in these regions; in fact, this is primarily what has spurred the growth of communities such as Bartica in Region 7 and Mahdia in Region 8, along with a number of other smaller communities.

Sadly, the one-seat combined majority which their supporters, including those from these areas, gave them at the last elections will now make it possible for the Opposition to use that leverage and approve such a dangerous proposal, which will have severe consequences on these very people.

We have all heard the old

saying, “You scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours too”. Well, our Opposition has slightly altered it, with their supporters in mind, to “You scratch my back and I’ll stab you in yours”.

Now, almost any and everyone in these gold-mining areas will be subject to stop and search, from the dredge operators and small-scale miners to the buyers, traders and shopkeepers. Once you have $2M worth of gold or cash on your person, or in your home or business, you are automatically a target.

People in these regions will now have to decide if they will stay quiet and allow another assault on their communities, similar to the cutting of funding to improve interior airstrips by the Opposition in the 2013 budget, or their opposition to the efforts by the PPP/C Government to provide transportation services to take students in the hinterland to school.

Then there is the Opposition’s assault on the LCDS project which, in almost every aspect, seeks to empower and preserve the way of life of those in our hinterland. And how could we forget their cutting of the Presidential Grants to Amerindian communities or the Solar Panel project!

Commission of Inquiry into Rodney’s death ...

Sir Richard Cheltenham speaking to members of the Media yesterday

Why is the opposition so bent on preventing our citizens in the hinterland from benefiting from any initiative by the PPP/C Government, but yet they go into those communities and lament how enough is not being done to develop these areas?

These citizens will now have to decide if they wish to remain silent and allow the continuation of these Opposition-orchestrated assaults against their communities, or make their voices heard, loud and clear. This is not a battle for the PPP and the PPP/C Government to fight alone; the entire nation needs to get behind President Donald Ramotar and his Administration and take a stand against the destructive policies of the AFC and APNU. Old Kai has also noticed that the man who was in charge of our economy in the 80s when it sank to its worst levels and is now the Opposition’s chief spokesperson on matters of finance, is peddling his misinformation in the media.

APNU Member of Parliament, Carl Greenidge, is quoted in the Monday, February 24, 2014 edition of the Stabroek News as saying that the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF)’s adviser, Roger Hernandez told a parliamentary

committee on Friday that the requirements for anti-money laundering legislation are only a “floor”, and that the country is free to amend the law in order to strengthen it beyond what exists.

However, in another section of the media, Demerara Waves, on Friday, February 21, the very Greenidge was dismissive of the position of the CFATF’s expert, in that the proposals profferred by the Opposition could pose greater risks. According to the article, “...when told that the CFATF official said it was best to go ahead with the government-sponsored amendments, Greenidge said that would be unacceptable. ‘That is Mr. Hernandez’s opinion; that is for him to express. But we are not going to accept his opinion.’”

Such is the deceptive nature of the Opposition, and this clearly exposes their modus operandi in treating with an issue of national importance.

But it does not end there, as the article tells us that the CFATF expert has warned against the Opposition proposals, in that if APNU’s proposed amendments were taken on board, there are two perils: some of the amendments that have been put forward deal with previous

areas of the Act that were deemed compliant. “The concern that we have is that the amendments being put forward may make those areas that were formally compliant, non-compliant.

There is a risk with that,” Hernandez is quoted as saying.

This is what the Opposition wanted. They clearly ran out of time to provide justification as to why they were deliberately stalling the passage of the anti-money laundering amendment, so now they have come up with amendments, which will conflict with our existing legislation, knowing fully well that the Government will be in no position to support them as they run counter to our Constitution.

The Opposition, in turn, will accuse the government of not wanting to compromise as their justification of our failure to pass the amendment and Guyana being fully blacklisted.

Old Kai and all Guyanese can easily see through this sinister plan by the AFC and APNU, so know that we will hold you 100% accountable should this become a reality!

From page 2

car in which he was travelling.

He was 38 years old at the time. After his death, Rodney received several honours. Among them, in 1993, the Government of Dr. Cheddi Jagan, posthumous-

ly, gave him the country’s highest National Award, the Order of Excellence (OE) and the Walter Rodney Chair in History was established at the University of Guyana.

start,” he said.

Dr. Rodney, known as a historian and political activist, was killed on June 13, 1980, when a bomb exploded in the

Attorney General Anil Nandlall (right) with members of the newly sworn in COI into Walter Rodney’s death.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Pride and respect return to Guyana’s Republic celebration -Local Gov’t Minister tells Region 8 residents

GUYANA is now a fullfledged democracy that has witnessed monumental social and economic changes, and it’s people can celebrate Republic anniversaries because pride and dignity have returned to the celebrations.

ment which suppressed the people. Significant strides were made since those days following the restoration of democracy in 1992, under the PPP/C rule, with the groundwork set by the late President, Dr. Cheddi Jagan. This has since been built on by each

more improvements as we go along,” he said.

The PPP Government has worked since the advent of its ascension to office to ensure all the races of Guyana have an equal share in the country’s resources. “We have always delivered on all our

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker and Regional Executive Officer, Ronald Harsawack at the flag raising ceremony at Kopinang, Region 8, on the eve of Guyana’s 44th Republic Anniversary This view was adumbrated by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr Norman Whittaker, last Saturday evening on the eve of the nation’s Republic anniversary, to residents of Kopinang in the remote Region 8.

The Minister and the Regional Executive Officer, Mr Ronald Harsawack, joined the residents in commemorating the country’s Republic anniversary at the community centre. Speaking of the difficult years prior to the PPP/C government taking over, he said, “Now we celebrate because pride and respect have returned to us.”

The minister spoke of the role played by the People’s Progressive Party in “moving us from where we were in the gutters” and in advancing the country and rights of all the people, including the Amerindians. “Let us celebrate tonight (Saturday) the fact that the indigenous people in this country are now in a position where they can make decisions for themselves, without unnecessary interference at the level of government,” he said.

Guyana has come a long way since its first republic anniversary, out of a period of being an undemocratic state, under a dictatorial govern-

successive PPP President and Government.

“What we are saying is that when you look at where we were in 1970, when those people said that we were a Republic, to where we are now, in those times they had nothing to celebrate, because we had achieved nothing. But today, 44 years later, we have a lot to celebrate,” Minister Whittaker noted.

From 1992 to present, the PPP Government has not only improved the rights of the people, but has maintained a stable macro-economic environment conducive to creating employment and economic growth, and has modernised and built critical infrastructure. Minister Whittaker noted that Amerindians too are part of this success story.

“We have today Amerindians who are doctors, Amerindians who are engineers, Amerindians who are education officers and Amerindians who are Ministers. You too have something to celebrate, our achievements in the social services...and though we may not be doing well enough in terms of the village economy, I say to you that Rome was not built in a day and we cannot achieve everything at one time, but we will work together with you to ensure

promises set out in our manifestos,” Minister Whittaker noted. He told the residents that government will continue to work and will do all of the things that the Opposition is seeking to block or cut, and bring progress in education, health, infrastructure, roads, transportation and water.

Harsawack spoke of government’s tangible support and contribution to the development of the residents of Region 8. “Last year we saw the completion of miles of roads, new bridges, culverts, schools and health centres... education delivery through our increase budgetary allocation saw pass rates significantly increasing in the areas of Maths, Science, English and Arts.”

He said that upgrades and renovation were done to school buildings, sanitary facilities, teachers quarters’ and dormitory facilities throughout the region, while the health services improved with the expansion of new services and training of key and critical medical personnel.

Harsawack said for Kopinang in 2013, government delivered on its commitment to rehabilitate the nursery and primary school, the community health centre, and supply school furniture and solar panels. (GINA)

The Golden Arrowhead being hoisted at Kopinang

Residents of Kopinang at the flag raising ceremony at the community sports ground

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Guyana/Malaysia to foster closer collaboration on value-added timber production GUYANA and Malaysia’s forestry sectors share several similarities in that they are generally well-managed and forestry administrations are committed to achieving sustainable forestry management.

With this in mind, and the need to foster closer collaboration and sharing of experiences, a delegation from Guyana recently participated in a bilateral meeting with representatives of the Malaysian Government.

The Guyana delegation was led by Robert Persaud,

Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment; Gavin Agard, Forestry Specialist from the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment; and Tasreef Khan, Deputy Commissioner of the Guyana Forestry Commission.

The forestry sectors in both countries play an important role in national development. To ensure that growth follows the correct trajectory, the Guyanese delegation participated in bilateral meetings with representatives from the Government of Malaysia and Senior Executives from Sam-

ling Global Limited which is the parent company of Barama Company Limited.

Bilateral discussions were centred on cooperation between the Governments of Malaysia and Guyana on several broad thematic areas related to sustainable forest management, and avenues for collaboration and capacity building, such as monitoring deforestation, particularly within the mining sector.

Extensive discussions with the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) and the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) relat-

Bilateral discussions centred on cooperation between the Governments of Malaysia and Guyana. During the meeting, several broad thematic areas related to Sustainable Forest Management and avenues for collaboration and capacity building were discussed. ed to the implementation of the European Union Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (EUFLEGT) have proven fruitful, since Malaysian counterparts have gained extensive experience over the past decade since

Minister Robert Persaud having a first-hand look at the operations of a factory in Malaysia

commencing formal negotiations.

The Guyana delegation also witnessed several commercial forest activities such as a large scale oil palm plantation and a state-of-the-art

plywood factory, which will be further examined for technology and knowledge transfer for improved value added processing within Guyana’s forestry sector.

(GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

National Conference on Road Safety at Liliendaal Friday THE Ministry of Home Affairs, in association with the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC), will be hosting the National Conference on Road Safety under the theme ‘Road Safety with Your Life on the Line’.

It is scheduled to take place at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, on Friday, February 28, from 09:00 hrs to 16:00 hrs.

The event aims to examine and adopt road safety methodologies, create public awareness and develop a Plan of Action, resulting from the National Strategy on Road Safety. It is hoped that the conference will achieve those objectives by creating a platform for dialogue among national stakeholders.

The one-day forum will consist of four workshop sessions that would address such issues as the National Road Safety Strategy, Public Awareness, Engineering and Education.

The workshops are to provide stakeholders with the opportunity to offer solutions aimed at making the roadways safer.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Commissioner of Information meets PSC delegation AT the request of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Commissioner of Information met with their delegation on Tuesday, when Justice Charles Ramson sought to respond to several enquiries which were

a cause of concern to their membership.

Commissioner Ramson was able to establish that the Access to Information Act 2011 created a statutory partnership with the various organs of the State and

its agencies, conferring upon members of the public, including NGOs such as the PSC, the right of access to information generated after 2nd July, 2013, when the Act became operational.

Commissioner of Information Justice Charles Ramson, at extreme left, meets with members of the Private Sector Commission

His Office was made the “Clearing House� for access to information where Public Authorities did not meet with the minimum of their obligations

imposed on them to provide adequate responses to requests for information. Upon conclusion of the fruitful meeting, Justice Ramson undertook to participate

in outreach engagements to sensitise the public to their rights and operations of his Office.

(Office of the Commissioner of Information)

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Work together and build Guyana - Minister Sukhai urges Region 7 residents at flag raising ceremony

MINISTER of Amerindian Affairs, Ms Pauline Sukhai, on Saturday evening called for the coming together of the residents of Region 7 towards building a more resilient region.

The minister was at the

time addressing residents at their flag raising ceremony to mark Guyana’s 44th Republic Anniversary, when she noted that the anniversary was a fitting time to not only seek to pay homage to those past and current leaders who fought for the

freedom Guyanese enjoy today, but also to recognise those who work together to build on their foundation, a stronger nation.

“Indeed, in Guyana today we enjoy a diversity of ethnic people, we enjoy a diversity of culture, we enjoy a diversity

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai and Region 7 Chairman, Gordon Bradford look on as the Golden Arrowhead is hoisted in Bartica

of resources, and indeed it is these important factors that we should be reminded of, that as a people, we should remain strong, we should remain focused, we should remain a united force,” she urged.

“Today Guyana has developed; Guyana has been transformed in a way those in the past would not have dreamt of.

We have done quite a lot as a nation, but we have much more to do, and therefore I encourage all of you to remain steadfast, to be patriotic, to ensure that you commit yourselves to put forward your best initiative so that Guyana will remain in the forefront of many of the developing countries, that Guyana will stand out as a model which others can look to, as we generate and establish many good practices,” she added.

The minister pointed out that the youths are the future, and so government has been seeking to put in place the

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai addressing residents

education and other training opportunities to boost capacity for the future development of the nation.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Gordon Bradford warned about the dangers

of the region’s dependency on one industry that is mining. He said that in 2013, the region witnessed the danger of its dependency on mainly see page 15

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Work together and build ... from page 14

mining and urged looking at tourism as another means for the region’s economic sustenance. “We need to work assiduously to take care of our beaches, flora, fauna and other attractions for tourists, join hands together and work and realise this dream,” he urged.

Bradford also addressed the issue of solid waste manage-

ment in the region, noting that the issue needs everyone’s support towards realising the dream of a clean and beautiful Bartica, and by extension, Region 7.

Work towards a landfill commenced in 2013.

He also mentioned some of the work the region achieved from its 2013 budget allocation.

These include the complete expansion of the Kamarang Hospital, the construction of

the nurses’ hostel at Kamarang, and the extension of the Bartica Hospital. Work also commenced on the construction of two new schools; one at 72 Miles and the other at Itaballi Landing.

The flag-raising ceremony was interspersed with cultural displays, and also on stage were the beauties who will in April be vying for the Ms Bartica Regatta crown. (GINA) Minister Pauline Sukhai and Region 7 Chairman, Gordon Bradford at the Republic Anniversary flag raising ceremony in the region

The beauties who, in April, will compete for the Miss Bartica Regatta crown

The march past

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Work progressing nicely on upgrade of Islamic Complex at Anna Catherina –projected to be completed ‘within a month’

By Michel Outridge

THE Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) is in Phases One and Two of the four-phase multi-million dollar upgrading and expansion works, and this is expected to be completed within a month.

ACIC is considered Guyana’s leading Islamic centre and hub for international cooperation between the Muslims of Guyana and the rest of the world.

The works commenced a month ago with the aim of better serving the needs of its membership and the hundreds of persons who use the facilities each year. The complex, which is also the centre of Sunni Islam in Guyana, is the venue of more than 80 per cent of the national Muslim programmes in Guyana and headquarters of several organisations and institutions, both local and overseas.

These first two phases now in construction will see a canopy on the western section

of the Masjid, just off the main entrance, keeping in place the beautiful architecture of the centre.

This project will also allow the area to be used as an extension of the Masjid when the capacity of the mosque is exhausted and persons have to pray or be seated outside.

In addition, a wheel-chair ramp will now be constructed to allow persons utilizing wheelchairs to gain easy access into the masjid. Phase 2 is the construction of a new annex for ladies praying at the complex. This facility will be fully air-conditioned and will carry a large television monitor to allow the sisters to see the Imam Khateeb at Juma Prayers and other activities held in the Masjid itself.

The 80% glass facility will also allow the annex to be used as part of the Lecture Hall for programmes and sisters can be in the annex and be able to view any programme in the lecture hall.

The third phase will see the complete upgrading of the

famous Akbar Hussain Lecture Hall, where all lectures and other large programmes are held. Most local and international scholars visiting Guyana have spoken from the podium of this facility and it has been blessed with the presence of some of the greatest Sunni scholars ever to visit this country.

Recently, His Eminence Maulana Dr. Hisham Kabbani and Maulana Dr. Waffee Mohammed spoke at programmes held in this hall.

The upgrading of this hall will also allow it to be used as classrooms for the Markaz Al Ihsan Guyana Branch.

The final phase of the project will see the expansion of the building currently being used as the sisters’ annex, to an indoor facility capable of hosting weddings, receptions and other private functions. It will be able to accommodate 300 persons seated at tables and will be equipped with all modern amenities, in addition to being fully air-conditioned.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Through multi-million-dollar venture...

Caricom Bottling Company introduces vodka cooler

By Michel Outridge CARICOM Bottling Company Inc., a Guyanese business, launched its ‘West Indies Vodka Cooler’ with six tantalising flavours dubbed ‘cocktails in a bottle’ at Gravity Lounge on Regent and Camp Streets, Georgetown, last Friday night.

Amidst much fanfare and glamour the product was

well-received by invitees.

The multi-million-dollar investment, with the tagline ‘Call yah shots’, was a hit as many took the opportunity to sample the six flavours from six models, who did the introduction.

Caricom Bottling has already invested tens of millions of dollars to provide the much demanded ‘West Indies Spring Water’ and is a full line contract

manufacturer of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages that will soon be distributed in Guyana, the Caribbean and, eventually, worldwide.

The six flavours are pina colada, sea breeze, cosmopolitan, volcano lava, blue lagoon and kamakazi.

Chairman of the company, see page 21

Chairman of Caricom Bottling Company Inc., Dr. Joshua Safeek posing with the models as he too displayed the product

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18 Thousands of revelers on Irving Street enjoying Digicel’s Float on Mash Day

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

SCENES FROM MASHRAMANI 2014 Photos by Adrian Narine and Sonell Nelson

Culture Minister Dr Frank Anthony during Mashramani 2014

These youngsters from the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) on Mash Day

These tourists were seen having an enjoyable time during Mashramani 2014

Singer ‘Slingshot’ and his horse-draw

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

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Ministry of Amerindian Affairs float

wn float on Mash Day

Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Mash Day

Mashing in style!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Persons watching the float parade

These girls having fun on Mash Day

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Caricom Bottling Company introduces ...

From page 17 Dr. Joshua Safeek said they took about a year and a half to

research the product before developing it and launching the six flavours on the same evening is history-making before it is

locally produced and will soon be exported.

He told reporters that they have invested about a billion

dollars to have a state-of-theart bottling plant and, within a month’s time, they will be putting out a new beer and lemon and lime bitters (LLB).

Safeek added that they have already introduced their water and it is a result of the hard work of staff, over a period of time that they are successful and the products have hit the local market with a bang.

CREATING EMPLOYMENT He said they take pride

The six flavours of Vodka being displayed by the models on Friday night during the launching (Sonell Nelson photos)

in their products and want to raise the bar, so they can compete both on the local and overseas markets and it is about leaving a legacy for Guyanese and, at the same time, creating employment.

Safeek said they have two plants, one on Broad Street, also in the city and the other will be constructed in Berbice, which is a US$25M project.

He said all their products are Guyana manufactured and bottled and the six vodka coolers are unique and specially mixed for that assured taste and

is time-delayed, meaning that someone consuming the product will not be intoxicated right away but after a while it creeps up on you.

Speaking on the occasion, too, was Quality Assurance, Shaun Lall, who gave a detailed explanation of how they came up with the six exciting tastes made with all local ingredients and blended uniquely for the acquired taste.

He said they are certified by the Food and Drug DeFrom page 22

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Cop’s recklessness costs DHB over $200,000 –to effect repairs to compromised section POLICEMAN David Lindo, who crashed his vehicle into a section of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) on January 29, 2014, caused over $200,000 in damage to the compromised section.

“The police are currently conducting an internal investigation into the matter,” the Harbour Bridge management said in a statement on Monday, almost one month after Lindo had slammed into a section of the structure. He had also tossed Bridge Manager, Rawlston Adams’s cellular phone into the river.

According to Adams, the incident occurred around 11:40pm.

“The officer’s vehicle collided with the bridge rails at Span 45, which damaged two cable trays and a diamond panel member,” he said.

The company said the total cost for repairing the compromised section amounted to $233,703.

As for Adams’s cell phone, the company said the item has since been replaced.

Caricom Bottling Company introduces ...

From page 21 partment and meet the standards required, as such their products are wholesome.

Lall said the vodka coolers were the brainchild of Safeek, who initiated the process of blending cocktails in a bottle.

Meanwhile, Coordinator of National Events/Administrator in the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Tameca Sukhdeo-Singh, pointed out that Caricom Bottling Company is relatively new, having entered the beverage arena three years ago.

It introduced its bottled water and now, as part of its expansion programme, introduces its new line of Vodka Cooler.

She noted that the product will offer consumers more choices on the local beverage market.

She said the ministry welcomes competition in any market because consumers are always the ones who benefit. West Indies Vodka Cooler has passed its food and drugs testing and received its quality assurance for consumption.

VERY PLEASED Sukhdeo-Singh stated that the ministry is very pleased about this new investment and expansion of the local beverage market and the significant capital injection into the economy.

“We would like to encourage Caricom Bottling Company to continue to innovate and invest in our local economy.

Our stable social and political environment, coupled with Government’s pro-business polices have created the enabling environment for the strong growth in foreign and domestic investments in our country in the last two decades,” she observed.

ADDITIONAL JOBS Sukhdeo-Singh assured that the investment by Caricom Bottling Company will create new employment opportunities for Guyanese immediately and, no doubt, spawn additional jobs and spin off opportunities in the medium to long term as its products gain acceptance and overseas markets are found.

She quoted Minister Irfaan Ali, who was on travel duties overseas at the time, as saying: “We believe that the innovation we speak of today must be the innovation that would lead us to a strong tomorrow. The modernisation that we speak of today must be one that is linked to a diversified tomorrow.”

Making remarks on the occasion, too, was Sales/ Marketing Manager, Mondale Smith, who was the emcee for the function attended by a large gathering, including media operatives.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

Region 9 outdoes itself this ‘Mash’ --hosts its biggest celebrations ever

REGION 9 this year hosted what is arguably one of its largest Mashramani celebrations to date, and with much pomp and ceremony, inclusive of a Float Parade around the community, and its own Flag Raising Ceremony.

Joining celebrants in observing Guyana’s 44th Republican Anniversary in that region was Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda K. Gopaul, who delivered the feature address on the eve of February 23, just minutes before the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted at the stroke of midnight.

In his address, the minister called on residents to be vigilant, and ensure that the gains made in the country over recent years are not diminished, and the country’s economy put into a state of uncertainty as a result of inactivity in the parliament over current issues and projects.

He specifically addressed the issue of the pending anti-money laundering legislation, and highlighted the many dangers facing the country, should this Bill not be passed at the next sitting of the National Assembly on Thursday.

He further called on the community to insist that their political leaders and representatives in Parliament adopt a patriotic approach towards the Bill at reference, and put aside all political differences at this point.

He also mentioned in passing that for Guyana to continue on the developmental path it

Dr. Nanda K. Gopaul has taken, every Guyanese and political party must play their part since Republican status, democracy and freedom do not envisage partisan approaches to national development, but rather the involvement of everyone putting their shoulders to the wheel and becoming advocates in the development process.

Further appealing to the residents and community leaders in Region 9 to continue working towards the development of the Region, Dr. Gopaul pointed to the fact the Government of Guyana is working to ensure every region develops apace, since the Government views the development of every region as integral to the development of Guyana.

“Once any Region remains underdeveloped, then Guyana will be reflected through that underdevelopment,” he said.

On the issue of the Opposition using its one-seat majority in the House to slash the national budgets over the last

two years, Minister Gopaul told residents that those cuts will have dire consequences for the economy, “as they prevent development from taking place, such as the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, the Specialty Hospital, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion Project, and even the development of a regional airstrip in Guyana, as well as other capital projects...”

In light of this, he asked the people of Region 9 to be vigilant, and not allow Guyana to move backwards, or to a state of under-development or where essential goods and services cannot be provided to the citizens of the country.

He also expressed the hope that by the time Guyana turns 50, it would have reached that stage “where our citizens who were forced to flee this country in droves, would once again return with joy to see prosperity and development all around.”

Commending the region for organising the celebrations so well, Minister Gopual congratulated all state agencies, private organisations, and individuals which participated in the street parade and Flag Raising ceremony.

Residents of Region 9 turned out in large numbers to the events, and were joined by overseas visitors, including those from the State of Roraima in neighbouring Brazil.

Also addressing the Flag Raising ceremony was Regional Chairman, Mr Wilson Lorentio.

Lombard Street robbery/murder...

Police looking for known persons as probe continues

By Michel Outridge FOLLOWING the robbery and murder of an America Street money-changer last Wednesday on Lombard Street, Georgetown, Crime Chief Seelall Persaud yesterday said that they are looking for several persons, who are known to the police.

The deputy commissioner for law enforcement added that the suspect, who was detained the same day Bridjlall Persaud was killed, has since been released on bail pending investigations.

Persaud, 42, of Eccles, East Bank of Demerara, was riddled with bullets when gunmen robbed him on Lombard Street, while he was at the wheel of his vehicle on his way to work.

The robbers took away a bag containing $1M in cash and escaped.

The murder took place in the vicinity of Builder’s Lumber Yard and INDESCO, a supplier of industrial tools and equipment, as other people were on their way to work.

The police reported that around 08:10 hrs, Bridjlall Persaud, 42, of Eccles, East Bank of Demerara, was driving his motor vehicle along Lombard

DEAD: Bridjlall Persaud

Street when he was attacked by two men, one of whom was armed with a handgun.

The shooter fired several rounds at Persaud, hitting him in the head and other parts of his body and both men escaped with a bag containing some $1M cash.

He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

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Aries March 21 - April 19

You might not realise it at first, but whenever you’re in a group of people today, laughing and having a good time, you are actually creating something -- energy, strong support and friendship. Right now, you’ll find that group settings are a great source of productivity, even if the group is a chatty and relaxed one. So try to be as collaborative as possible.

Even if it’s just you and one other person, you’ll get way more done than you would get done by yourself.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Some weird behaviour that has been going on in your social circle right now might be meant to get a rise out of you -- and you simply can’t ignore it anymore. Give it some of your attention today, and push back when the comments get too pushy or provocative.

Set aside time early in the day to start the conversations you need to have. Be bold and honest -- get to the bottom of things as quickly as possible. You will be very relieved when you do.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

New people can add vitality and energy to your life, but they can also distract you from other important things. There are many work or school issues that need your full attention right now. Be careful about accepting too many invitations or going out on too many dates -- you might not have as much free time as you think you do, and it would be a real shame to start something you can’t follow through with.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Just as one bad apple can spoil the whole barrel, one bad idea (if left unchecked) can ruin a healthy team dynamic. So watch out for unusual, untested theories today. You have to be diligent in your professional role and stay focused on the greater good. Don’t let peer pressure, fancy titles or outright bullying intimidate you into going along with the crowd if you know that the crowd is going in the wrong direction.

Leo July 23 - August 22

Someone you know who has a huge ego is going to get knocked down a peg or two today -- and you are going to find the spectacle exceedingly entertaining. But seeing another person humbled should not make you gloat. You can be proud of being a bit wiser than certain people -- but if you get too cocky about it, you’re sure to end up making a fool of yourself, too! Humility makes wise people like you seem even wiser.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

If you don’t have anything to look forward to right now, then make something to look forward to -- you need to remind yourself that you’re in charge of your life. It’s time to stop waiting for other people to make things happen! Reorganise your day -- do your morning routine in the afternoon for a while, and see how that feels. You’ll be surprised at how a slight change in your schedule can energise you.

Libra September 23 - October 22

Someone you know very well could be working too hard at having a good time. This person wants to be the life of the party but is perhaps losing sight of what ‘fun’ really means. Try to schedule some time for just the two of you -- create a relaxed situation that will encourage him or her to talk about what’s going on. Your listening skills are needed in this situation, so don’t feel obligated to provide answers. Just offer a sympathetic ear.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

Change affects different people in different ways. Expect your reaction to a major transition to be unlike anyone else’s. You have always been open to new experiences, and right now you are very eager to see things get mixed up in your life. This is not the case for everyone close to you, though -- and you must be sensitive to this fact. When the change happens, ask people what their feelings are, and work with them until everyone is on the same page.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

The give and take of ideas is not always an effortless experience -- your ego can get involved, and trying to ‘win’ a debate can distort the exchange. Whenever you share ideas, you need to focus solely on accurately conveying what you think, not on proving that you’re the only person who’s ‘right.’ And you definitely can’t make things personal. If a debate gets too heated today, you should be prepared to agree to disagree, and just walk away before things go too far.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

You can never be sure what the future will hold -- but you should still try to plan for it.

To some extent, you can make your future happen the way you want it to. Today, try to lay the foundation for a few important things you hope to do someday -- whether that means requesting vacation time from work, upping the ante on your retirement savings or figuring out the best time of year for your dream wedding.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18 For Wednesday February 26, 2014 -14:30hrs

The fact that you’ll have a lot of high energy today will do more than fuel your own productivity -- it could make some inspiring changes within your group of friends. In all your activities, your enthusiasm will bubble up from deep inside you without any effort on your part -- and this enthusiasm will be contagious. Without realising it, you’ll show people options they’ve never considered before. If they decide to follow you, welcome them warmly and lead them fearlessly.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

If you have a somewhat busy day today, make an effort to get things done as soon as you can -- you will need some free time in the afternoon so you can daydream about your future. Sound silly to schedule fantasy time? It’s not -- in fact, it’s just as important as a doctor’s appointment or a staff meeting. Your imagination requires maintenance, and you need to get some imagining done so you can recognise a dream coming true when it happens.

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Malinga, Thirimanne GBL/E-Networks wraps... push Sri Lanka to victory From Back Page

LAHIRU Thirimanne and Lasith Malinga were the stars of the show as Sri Lanka claimed an exciting 12-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the Asia Cup in Fatullah, Bangladesh, on Tuesday.

Sri Lanka opener Thirimanne’s second ODI century helped set a testing victory target of 297, but his efforts looked set to go to waste until fast bowler Malinga produced a devastating late spell to end Pakistan’s challenge.

Pakistan were favourites as they reached 242 for four in the 43rd over on the back of a superb partnership from captain Misbah-ul-Haq (73) and Umar Akmal (74), but then Malinga worked his magic with a little help from fellow paceman Suranga Lakmal.

After Lakmal had made the vital breakthrough to dismiss Akmal and end a 121-run stand between him and Misbah, Malinga swept through the tail as Pakistan were bowled out for 284.

The 30-year-old - one of the world’s most feared limited-overs bowlers - claimed all of the final five Pakistan wickets to fall, including those of Misbah and the dangerous Shahid Afridi, to seal the win with seven balls to spare.

the baseball world in a short time” and he was also able to unearth female players whom he identified as a core group around which a national programme will be built.

The filming of the entire process and behind-the-scenes occurrences have fired the imagination of the Baseball world, USA. Baseball CEO Paul Seiler commented on the concept: “Truly groundbreaking, will be interesting to watch this unfold. Well done!”

Other Baseball governing bodies have expressed interest in copying the format and exposing available talent to professional and academic opportunities.

On the final day of phase one of the E-Networks Baseball star show, there was a Pro-style workout for the players following which a customised workout has been designed for each player, the coming weeks will see the contestants hone their skills under the watchful eyes of coaches and cameras, as they prepare

Lasith Malinga’s 5 for 52 helps Sri Lanka beat Pakistan by 12 runs in the opening match of the Asia Cup.. of-the-match award, although Thirimanne must have pushed Malinga finished with fighim close after scoring 102 ures of five for 52, his sixth off 110 balls at the top of the five-wicket haul in ODIs. order. (PA Sport) That earned him the man-

S Africa announce extensive World Cup preparations CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - South Africa will play a minimum of 23 warmup one-day internationals against five different countries to boost their preparation for next year’s World Cup, the country’s cricket board said on Monday.

The three-time semi-finalists have had no previous World Cup success and a litany of dramatic failures have earned them a cruel reputation as “chokers” in the limited overs format.

“With it being a World Cup year in 2015, we have placed a lot of emphasis on the 50-over format and have tried to maximise our preparations by playing as many matches as possible in conditions that will be similar to those in New Zealand and Australia,” coach Russell Domingo said in a statement on Monday.

The board also announced six Tests in a six-month period between July and January next year that includes fulfilling a two-match series against Sri Lanka postponed last year.

The top-ranked Test team will play two Tests and three one-day internationals in the island nation in July, followed by a single Test in Zimbabwe

SA coach Russell Domingo in August and then a triangular ODI series there also involving Australia.

If they reach the final of the triangular in Harare, that will take to 24 the number of their pre-World Cup ODIs. South Africa have arranged a three-match ODI series in New Zealand in October and then take on Australia away in three Twenty20 internationals and five ODIs in November.

The Proteas will host a three-Test series and five ODIs against the West Indies in December and January before heading to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

South Afreica have been clubbed in Pool B along with Zimbabwe, India, West Indies, Ireland, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.

for a second round of visits from Major League Baseball scouts in March.

E-Networks will air the show on its own Channel 1 in HD and a week later on other local television stations.

Prospects came from all over Guyana to try their arm and some were well rewarded for their efforts. Those identified for continuation in the competition to be Guyana’s first baseball star are: (Males) Abdul Jaleel Jaffar, Alanzo J Fernandes, Andrew Gibson, Dexter George, Dillion Williams, Eon Reynolds, Jamal Anderson, Joel Davis, John Henk George, Kewin Layne, Kurt Bijadder, Latchman Dindayal, Leon McBean, Mark Jackman, Marvin Mahipat, Orlando Tanner, Randy Arrindell, Shemar Arrindell ,Julian Fortune, Naveed Ali, Jomo Joseph, Avishkar Ramgobin, Dornel Barker, Nicholas Shivkumar, Richie Looknauth, Jamal Lafleur and (Females) Emily Ramsuchit, Shamira Ramsuchit, Ruthann Simon, Niossi Alsopp, Ketisha Hick.

Guyanese cricketers arrive in Kingston for 4-Day ...

From Back Page edly suffered an injury and is replaced by spinner Amir Khan. They, however, have the reliable left-hander Assad Fudadin who scored 289 runs last year in 12 innings.

Their bowling department will be led by left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul who picked up 30 wickets last season.

He will be ably supported by fellow leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo who snared 20 wickets last season in six matches.

The last time Guyana met

English Lingfield 10:10 hrs The Stig 10:40 hrs Minella For Value 11:10 hrs Supreme Present 11:40 hrs Chalk It Down 12:10 hrs Empire Levant 12:40 hrs Inner Drive 13:10 hrs Ellin’s Tower Bangor 10:30 hrs Rosa Fleet 11:00 hrs Ortolan 11:30 hrs Monetary Fund 12:00 hrs Stormhoek 12:30 hrs Mudita Moment 13:00 hrs Fearless Tunes Kempton 13:20 hrs Greylami 13:50 hrs Global Explorer 14:20 hrs Bajan Bear 14:50 hrs Fearless Lad 15:20 hrs Born In Bombay 15:50 hrs Premio Loco 16:20 hrs Conry South Africa Racing Tips

Jamaica in a four-day encounter was in April last year, when the visiting Jamaica team won the match by 214 runs at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

Guyana Squad Shivnarine Chanderpaul (capt.), Christopher Barnwell (v/capt.), Anthony Bramble, Assad Fudadin, Amir Khan, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Narsingh Deonarine, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph,, Vishaul Singh, Alvin Johnson (manager) Esuan Crandon (coach).

Scottsville 08:25 hrs Professor X 09:00 hrs Pimpernel 09:35 hrs Mr Whatever 10:05 hrs Sadhu 10:40 hrs Indigo Child French Racing Tips Lyon La Soie 11:40 hrs Uta 12:10 hrs Sweet De L’elfe 12:40 hrs Souriyan 13:10 hrs The First Spirit 13:40 hrs Gaelique Show 14:10 hrs Freedom Tales 14:40 hrs Snap Call American Racing Tips Tampa Bay Downs Race 1 Skiptothegold Race 2 Sensible Shoes Race 3 Sugadadeze Race 4 Film Star Race 5 Tess the Angel Race 6 Monatella Race 7 China Holiday Race 8 Officer’s Duty Race 9 Ambitious

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

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ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup

Bangladesh, New Zealand reach Plate Championship final

BANGLADESH and New Zealand reached the Plate Championship final in the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup UAE 2014 yesterday when they comfortably won their play-off matches.

Bangladesh, who have previously won the Plate title in 1998, 2004 and 2010, defeated Zimbabwe by 72 runs while New Zealand recorded a comfortable five-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Plate Championship final will be played tomorrow at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

In the Super League fifth/ sixth position semi-final, West Indies beat Afghanistan by the skin of their teeth by nine runs. The victory means that West Indies will take on India in the fifth/sixth position match at Sharjah Cricket Stadium and Afghanistan will play Sri Lanka in the seventh/ eighth position match at ICC Academy 2 tomorrow.

The features of the 12th day of the 16-day tournament were fine half-centuries by Mossadek Hossain and Joyraz Sheik of Bangladesh, Zimbabwe’s Luke Jongwe, Fabien Allen of the West Indies, Afghanistan’s

Hashmatullah Shaidi and Shahidullah Kamal, and Ken McClure of New Zealand.

Mossadek scored a 66ball 83 with six fours and a six while Joyraz hit five fours in an 89-ball 58 as Bangladesh scored 265 for six in 50 overs. Zimbabwe, in their run-chase, were restricted to 193 for nine with Luke Jongwe scoring 50.

McClure scored 62 not out off 68 balls with seven fours and one six to help New Zealand overhaul the UAE’s modest score of 140 with just under 20 overs and five wickets to spare.

In the West Indies-Afghanistan match, Allen scored 92 from 94 balls with eight fours and four sixes to lift his side to 215 after they had slipped to two for one and then 42 for four. Allen added 68 runs for the fifth wicket with Tristan Coleman (37) and 52 runs for the sixth wicket with Ramaal Lewis (27).

In turn, opener Shahidullah Kamal contributed 51 (67 balls, 5x4, 2x6) and Hashmatullah Shaidi scored 52 not out with four fours off 87 balls as Afghanistan were bowled out for 206 in 48 overs. Afghanistan had slipped to 97 for five but

… West Indies beat Afghanistan by nine runs

West Indies Under 19 clinched victory by 9 runs and advances to the fifth playoff final, where they will meet India.

Academy 2. recovered to 204 for seven, and, West Indies 215 all out, 49.2 at that stage required 12 runs for overs (Fabien Allen 92, Tristan victory in 21 balls.

Coleman 37, Ramaal Lewis But Ray Jordan picked up 27; Mohammad Mujtaba 3-36, two important scalps, finishing Fareed Ahmed 3-37) with three for 44, as Afghanistan Afghanistan 206 all out, lost their last three wickets in 48 overs (Hashmatullah Shaidi nine balls to be bowled out for 52 not out, Shahidullah Kamal 206 in 48 overs.

51; Ray Jordan 3-44, Ramaal Lewis 2-38) Scores in brief: Super League 5th place playoff - West Indies beat Afghanistan by nine runs at ICC

Momentum has swung towards South Africa, says Amla

By Nick Said CAPE TOWN, South Africa - (Reuters) - South Africa will head to their favourite ground with momentum in their favour when they take on Australia in the series-deciding third Test at Newlands, batsman Hashim Amla said yesterday.

The Proteas have suffered just one loss in Cape Town in 12 years, to Australia in 2006, a run of 16 matches at a venue where crowds are traditionally good and the wicket conducive to positive results.

“Newlands has been a happy ground for the Proteas over the last few years but Australia are a good team,” Amla told reporters ahead of the match which starts on Saturday.

“There is a lot riding on the last game and fortunately we have momentum and that is what we are going to try and take into the match. Going into the last Test it will be important to assess the conditions as soon as we can.”

Australia’s last two visits to Cape Town in 2009 and 2011 resulted in defeats by an innings and 20 runs, and eight wickets. Three years ago they were bowled out for 47 in their second innings.

South Africa’s thumping 231-run victory in the second

Test following an equally decisive 281-run loss in the first game in Pretoria left the series on a knife-edge.

Amla, who scored an elegant hundred in the second innings in Port Elizabeth, said the squad felt they were now playing much better cricket.

“Players got hundreds and the bowlers bowled well, it’s a better situation to be in going in one-all, having won the second Test,” he said.

Captain Graeme Smith spoke of his side’s character and resilience in adversity after the Port Elizabeth win and Amla said they had learnt how to get positive results from

losing positions.

“Over the last few years we’ve had quite a few fightbacks. I say fightbacks to win the Test as well as fightbacks to hold on to the draw like the matches at the Wanderers (against India) and Adelaide (against Australia),” Amla said.

“Over the last few years there have been some really memorable Test matches and this last one (in Port Elizabeth) is one of them because we came out on top.”

Amla’s unbeaten 127 in the second Test took him back to number two in the International Cricket Council’s rankings for Test batsmen behind

Hashim Amla

Plate Championship semi-final – Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 72 runs at Abu Dhabi Oval 1.

Bangladesh 265-6, 50 overs (Mosaddek Hossain 83 not out, Joyraz Sheik 58, Litton Das 47, Shadman Islam 34; Patrick Mambo 2-55) Zimbabwe 193-9, 50 overs (Luke Jongwe 50, Malcolm Lake 38, Deven Bell 30 not out; Mehedy Hasan 3-43, Mustafizur Rahman 2-19, Nihaduzzaman 2-23) Plate Championship semi-final – New Zealand beat UAE by five wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

UAE 140 all out, 49.2 overs (Moaaz Qazi 21; Josh Finni 2-5, Jeremy Benton 2-23) New Zealand 141-5, 30.2 overs (Ken McClure 62 not out, Raki Weerasundara 30; Justin James 2-38)

Forthcoming matches: Wednesday *Australia v South Afri-

ca (Super League semifinal), Dubai International Cricket Stadium (match starts at 12:00hrs) Namibia v Scotland (13th/14th position playoff), Abu Dhabi Oval 1 Canada v Papua New Guinea (15th/16th position playoff), Abu Dhabi Oval 2 Thursday India v West Indies (5th/6th position playoff), Sharjah Cricket Stadium Sri Lanka v Afghanistan (7th/8th position playoff), ICC Academy 2 New Zealand v Bangladesh (Plate Championship final), Zayed Cricket Stadium UAE v Zimbabwe (11th/12th position playoff), Abu Dhabi Oval 1 Friday England v loser of Australia-South Africa match (3rd/4th position play-off), ICC Academy 1 Saturday *Pakistan v Australia-South Africa winner (Super League final), Dubai International Cricket Stadium (match starts at 12:00hrs)

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26, 2014

Mashramani Darts Classic 2014 …

Fitzgerald, Hiralall snatch victory in their respective singles final MEN’S and Women’s national singles champions, Sudesh Fitzgerald and Rosetta Hiralall, came from behind to snatch victory in their respective singles final when the curtain came down on the Mashramani Darts Classic last Saturday night at the Malteenoes Sports Club.

Fitzgerald chalked up his second lien on the ‘Lens Trophy’ (previously in 2012) by defeating Anil Lachhman (defending title won in 2013) – three games to two in the 501.

Lachhman took the first two games in fine style but Fitzgerald showed why he is the national champion by storming back to take the next three games.

The third place went to Ricardo Madhoo who defeated the other losing semi-finalist Anthony Bissoondyal two

games to one.

On the distaff side, Shondell Hyles was well placed to upset the national champion Hiralall but faltered after taking a big lead in the fourth and fifth games.

Hiralall won the first game.

Hyles drew level by winning the second and stormed away to win the third, only to slip thereafter.

The third place went to veteran Jean DeSouza who defeated the other losing semi-finalist Melissa Smart two games to one.

Full results in the other events are as follows: Mixed Doubles 501: Sudesh Fitzgerald partnered by newcomer S. Persaud (winners) over Sherwyn Greene partnered by newcomer Shondell Hale – two games to one. The third place went to Colin France and Shondell Hyles, over the other losing semi-finalists Lallchand Ram-

Sudesh Fitzgerald is seen receiving the ‘Lens Trophy’ together with a cash prize from GDA president Grantley Culbard at the conclusion of the Mashramani Darts Classic 2014 played at the Malteenoes Sports Club. bharose & Hiralall.

M e n ’s D o u b l e s 5 0 1 : Sudesh Fitzgerald and Ricardo

Madhoo (winners) over France and Anil Lachhman – three games to one.

Mayweather to fight Marcos Maidana in May after fans’ vote

Floyd Mayweather

Marcos Maidana

WBC welterweight world champion Floyd Mayweather will fight WBA champion Marcos Maidana in a title

unification bout on May 3.

Unbeaten American Mayweather, 37, asked fans via Twitter to choose between Amir

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday February 26, 2014) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230)& CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: 91 (WI vs IND, Mumbai, 1974-75) 37 ODIs Today’s Quiz: Who is the first Guyanese to register a Test century at Bourda?

How many players have captained the WI in ODIs to date?

What of the Irish?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Khan and Maidana as his next opponent.

He will face 30-year-old Argentine Maidana at a venue to be decided.

“This is a great fight for me and he deserves the opportunity to see if he can do what 45 others have tried to do before him - beat me,” Mayweather said A joint statement from Mayweather’s team and Golden Boy Promotions said the “overwhelming majority” of the 200 000-plus fans who voted on social media picked Maidana, who has won 35 of his 38 fights, including 31 by knockout.

Briton Khan, who beat Maidana in 2010, criticised Mayweather last week for “wasting my time”.

Maidana beat the previously undefeated three-time world champion Adrien Broner in December.

“I am extremely happy to be facing Floyd Mayweather because it will give me the opportunity to show the world that I am the best welterweight in the division,” he said.

“I just handed a great defensive fighter his first loss and I plan to do the same to Mayweather,” he said.

Mayweather said: “Marcos Maidana’s last performance immediately brought him to my attention.

“He is an extremely skilled fighter who brings knockout danger to the ring.”

Mayweather, a 10-time world champion in five weight divisions, set the record for the highest-grossing pay-perview event in television history last September when his defeat of Saul Alvarez brought in more than $150M (£90M).

(BBC Sport)

The third place went to Sherwyn Greene and Anthony Bissoondyal, over the other

losing semi-finalists Andrew Balchand and Chris Fulton.

Mixed Triples 701: Sherwyn Greene/Hiralall/Rambharose (winners) over Andrew Balchand/Fulton/Hemwattie Amyan – two games to one.

The third place went to Fitzgerald/Mary Correia/Nicholas Seetaram, over the other losing semi-finalists Adrian Damon/ Melissa Smart/Nicholas Murray – two games to one.

Incentive Prizes: Shortest Game – 16 darts – won by Sudesh Fitzgerald and Anil Lachhman.

Highest Amount of Points to Finish a Game: 128 by Andrew Balchand.

Most 180s: Lallchand Rambharose (3).

All prizes were in cash, but there was the ‘Lens Trophy’ in addition for the Men’s Singles.

T&T officials defend decision to shut the gates on hundreds of ticketholders PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - Hundreds of legitimate ticketholders were again denied entry to the Queen’s Park Oval, this time for the NAGICO Super50 final between Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, cricket officials here have confirmed.

The decision to shut the gates on disgruntled ticketholders has been attributed to the Fire Service personnel on duty during the final on February 15.

A release from the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) has defended the decision as necessary to avert ‘a chaotic situation’. “… It is in this context we make reference to the hundreds who were unable to gain entry to the Oval for the final between Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados on February 15, notwithstanding being in possession of legitimate entrance tickets,” the release stated.“We extend our sincere apologies to these supportive fans and assure them that this inconvenience was not

Greek misery for United, as Olympiakos win 2-0

By Graham Wood

ATHENS, Greece (Reuters) - Olympiakos Piraeus made it fifth time lucky yesterday, beating an abject Manchester United team 2-0 in their Champions League last-16 first leg.

Alejandro Dominguez opened the scoring with a clever first-half flick and Arsenal loanee Joel Campbell added a sublime second to leave United facing a huge task to overturn the deficit in the return match at Old Trafford next month.

Defeat represented another body blow in an inconsistent season for David Moyes’ men.

The Champions League is United’s last chance of a trophy and they looked disjointed and sluggish against an inexperienced Olympiakos side who are bidding to reach the quarter-finals for only the second time in their history.

It was the first time the Greeks had beaten United in five attempts.

Rodriguez opened the scoring in the 38th minute when his clever flick just inside the box deflected a long-range shot past keeper David De Gea.

due to over-selling of entrance tickets but the decision of the Fire Services personnel on duty to close off entry to the stands when there were seats still unoccupied.”

A year ago, 200 legitimate ticketholders were denied entry into the Queen’s Park Oval for the climax of the Trinidad and Tobago leg of the Caribbean T20 tournament.

The disappointed fans were turned away as stands appeared filled, on account of unruly patrons and counterfeit tickets which forced officials to shut the gates.

Officials here have stressed that the decision to shut the gates on legitimate holders was aimed at safeguarding loyal ticketholders and cricket fans.

TTCB has publicly applauded the role of the country’s Minister of National Security Gary Griffith, who “went beyond the call of duty and prevented a chaotic situation by his prompt and thoughtful intervention”.

“Within minutes of the issue being brought to his attention, Minister Griffith in consultation with Cricket Board officials and the management of the Queen’s Park Cricket Club, found a solution and initiated action which satisfied the hundreds of disgruntled loyal patrons,” the TTCB said.

“The TTCB categorically states that it purposefully under-sold the venue by 1 000 tickets, given the history of similar previous action to close the gates with fans outside the venue, and out of our concern for the comfort and welfare of our loyal ticketholders and cricket fans.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 26 2014

35

Four local boxers to contest Jamaica’s Annual `The Contender’ tournament

FOUR top local professional boxers will travel to Jamaica this month end to participate the Jamaican Boxing Federation’s Annual `The Contender’ Tournament.

According to a source close to the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC), former European light middleweight champion Howard Eastman, national Super Middleweight champion Derick Richmond, Ian Azore and Gladwin Dorway will leave Guyana this month end to journey to Jamaica for the opening of the 16-week tournament which will involve welterweight fighters.

While Eastman, Richmond and Dorway are over the welterweight limits, the GBBC source told Chronicle Sport that all three have

been hard at training and are expected to make the welterweight limit.

Eastman who is currently in Berbice training is expected to travel to Georgetown this weekend and will join the others before moving on to Jamaica.

Richmond who broke Edmond DeClou’s jaw just three months ago is in top shape the source said.

According to the source, the event used to be an all-Ja-

Former European light middleweight champion Howard Eastman

Stag Beer EBFA Div.1 League

Agricola edge Grove Hi Tech 2-1; Soesdyke Falcons trounce Herstelling 6-0

AGRICOLA Red Triangle made an exciting return to competitive football on the East Bank yesterday when they edged Grove Hi Tech 2-1 in the feature game of a double-header as play in the Stag Beer-sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) division-one league continued at the Grove Playfield.

Grove, also fielding a team in the GFF Premier League, with provision for only their Under-21 players to be exposed at the East Bank level, went into the rubber a confident unit with much more playing hours under their belts than the re-emerging Agricola side.

However, on the field of play it was a different ball game as Agricola came out all guns firing, controlling the opening exchanges. Urged on by their supporters, scattered around the ground and even on nearby verandahs, Grove stayed in the game and enjoyed a few good runs of their own.

Agricola goalkeeper Yohance Roberts was excellent between the uprights for his team. Grove’s captain, the experienced Domini Garnett, was effectively shut out of the game by the Agricola team.

The first half ended 0-0 but more pulsating play was reserved for the final half. Five minutes into the half Agricola eased into the lead from an excellent cross by Travis Welch in the 50th minute. The high ball looked like it was destined over the crossbar to the custodian Michael Matthews’ right.

But to the surprise of all, the ball dipped and entered the V on the far side, Agricola 1 Grove 0.

It was truly a surprise for Grove whose defence could not believe but certain delight for Agricola who kept the pressure up on the home team.

That advantage was doubled in the 69th minute, as Gordon Grant caught the Grove defence napping and the goalie, beaten some way off his line, kept his composure to dribble the lone defender before tapping the ball into the open net, Agricola 2 Grove 0 The home team have a reputation for taking victory from the jaws of defeat and did show signs of a comeback but were not able to go all the way since time was not on their side.

Joel Dick pulled one back for them to reduce the deficit in the 79th minute, Agricola 2 Grove 1.

As valiant as Grove’s efforts were to draw level and grab an equal share of the points, it was not to be, the game ending in favour of Agricola who have now joined Timehri Panthers, Kuru Kururu Warriors and Soesdyke Falcons as the teams winning their opening matches.

Soesdyke Falcons, however, registered the biggest margin of victory, a 6-0 thumping of the young but determined Herstelling Football Club.

A double each off the boots of Colin McLean and Ulatto Smith guided Soesdyke to a comfortable three points. McLean opened the proceedings in the 9th minute and completed his tally in the 25th.

Smith was on target in the 23rd and 57th minutes. Also inking their names on the score sheet were Kelcey Benson in the 26th minute and Roger Dey in the 60th minute. The young Herstelling unit got tougher as the game progressed but were no match for the seasoned Soesdyke side.

Another double-header is set for Sunday at the same venue.

Travis Welch (right) and Gordon Grant

maican affair but this year the organisers have decided to open it to the rest of the Caribbean Region.

The opening is set for March 4 and will run for 16 weeks.

The winner will receive US$20 000, while the runner-up, third- and fourth-place fighters will earn US$5 000, US$2 500 and US$1 500.

According to information received, the tournament will be

conducted on an eight by eight basis, where after the first set of bouts the eight losers will pull their net opponents’ name from a bag and they will contest sixround and eight-round contest and the final will be over 10 rounds.

The GBBC Boxing Board of Control would like to thank Leroy Brown and Mark Kelly for their input in making the trip to Jamaica possible for the four Guyanese.

Root hits ton but Corbin’s 104 gives England a scare JOE Root warmed up for the one-day series against West Indies with an unbeaten 104, but England were given a scare by Kyle Corbin who struck a powerful century before wrapping up a 29-run win at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

After compiling 290 for 8 on the back of Root’s hundred, England made steady inroads into the UWI Vice Chancellor’s XI once they broke a half-century opening stand and appeared to have the game completely in hand.

However, 23-year-old Corbin, who has a List A average of 13.43, added 103 with Devon Thomas, who has played 21 ODIs, to give the VC XI an outside chance of reaching their target.

Thomas was bowled by Stuart Broad to bring relief to England but Corbin reached a 98-ball century and it was only when he found short third man off Tim Bresnan that the visitors were absolutely assured of not suffering an upset.

Root hit nine boundaries in run-a-ball stay as he anchored the innings from No. 4 following a brisk opening stand of 58 by the new-look pair of Alex Hales and Luke Wright.

In Australia, Root lost his place in the one-day side for two matches before returning for the final game in Adelaide where he hit 55 and this innings assures him of another run in the team as England look to begin the rebuilding after a debilitating few months.

With England’s onus very much on Twenty20, regular one-day openers Alastair Cook and Ian Bell have remained at home so Hales is in line for his ODI debut on Friday. Wright was given the first opportunity to be alongside him, ahead of Michael Lumb or Moeen

Kyle Corbin hits 98ball hundred.

Ali, and struck the ball cleanly before finding deep cover.

Hales top-edged a pull to be caught and bowled after playing himself in then Root and Ben Stokes (58) added 68 in 12 overs.

Stokes continued in the No. 3 role that he was promoted to during the one-day series in Australia and cleared the boundary four times before falling to Miguel Cummins, the pace bowler who made his ODI debut against Ireland at

the weekend.

England’s middle-order stroke-makers, Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler, could not get going, both falling lbw to leg-spinner Akeem Dewar.

When Ravi Bopara fell to Raymon Reifer England had lost 4 for 50 and the innings was threatening to fizzle away.

However, Root and Bresnan added 62 in seven overs for the seventh wicket, Root dominating the partnership as he moved towards three figures.

Chadwick Walton and Adrian Barath gave the VC XI a steady start before James Tredwell struck with his first ball when Walton pulled a long hop to long-on and then had Paul Palmer caught at slip. The same bowler-catcher combination came together for a third time to remove Barath when Jordan was back at long-on.

When Broad and Bopara claimed a wicket apiece the VC XI were 143 for 5 and it appeared a formality for England, but Corbin kept them on their toes.

Joe Root holds England together with an unbeaten century.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Four local boxers to contest Jamaica’s Annual `The Contender’ tournament (See Story on page 35)

‘Awo’ Abrams slams helmet-trick on Slingerz FC debut Uitvlugt stop Stewartville to reach semis

Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams scored four goals on debut for his new club Slingerz FC who defeated Bagotville 6-1.

NATIONAL striker Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams netted a helmet-trick while Clive De Nobrega and Devon Millington scored a goal each to help guide tournament hosts and defending champions Slingerz Football Club (FC) to a 6-1 victory over Bagotville, when action in the second annual Stag Beer/West Mashramani Champions Cup continued at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground.

In the second clash of the night’s planned double-header, Monday last, Uitvlugt walked away 3-0 winners over their rivals of neighbouring village Stewartville.

The win for the two teams means that they will clash with each other in Saturday’s semifinals at the same venue.

Abrams was signed to Slingerz FC from Alpha ‘the hammer’ United during the

last transfer window, along with six other players, to form a new-look roster for the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) number one club.

Forming an alliance with Millington up front, it was obvious head coach Charles ‘Lily Pollard wanted to see how the two will mesh and his experiment paid off in the 9th minute when Abrams and his new-found partner teamed up to score the game’s opening goal.

After receiving the assist from Abrams, Millington returned the favour eight minutes later as ‘Awo’ scored his first goal since signing to the ‘West Side’ club to put the score 2-0.

The score line doesn’t tell the true story of how hard Bagotville fought off relentless attacks from Slingerz FC and they were able to counter in

GBL/E-Networks wraps up week of reality TV show THE Guyana Baseball League (GBL)/E-Networks wrapped up its first week of tryouts overseen by the Baltimore Orioles International scout Justin Prinstein during the staging of Guyana lone sports

reality TV Show.

According to a release from the GBL, Prinstein was impressed with the local talent on display and remarked, “I have seen ages pretty much from 12- to 26-year olds and the

12- and 16-year olds show a lot of promise and the players that are a little bit older show a skill set that is at a very high level, players that have never played before.”

Prinstein has advised the

GBL to move the timetable for setting up National Teams as he is certain with the talent observed “Guyana can become a major player in

See page 32

This is how it’s done! Major League Baseball and Baltimore Orioles International scout Justin Prinstein demonstrates during his visit to Guyana.

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the 23rd minute and score a beautiful goal from Delon Layne.

Slingerz FC’s field setting reflected a team who came out to press their opponents from the first whistle and with the Collin Nelson-led defence all sitting well into the Bagotville half, Layne ran on to a perfectly placed pass and caught goalkeeper Jason Cromwell off-guard as the sides ended the first half 2-1.

Pollard must have said something to his troops during the half-time break. Slingerz came out looking hungrier than in the first half and the combination of Millington and Abrams on top placed the Bagotville team under extreme pressure.

Abrams was able to score his second goal from the charity spot in the 52nd minute after Millington was brought down in the penalty area. His other two

goals (62nd, 70th) both came from Millington’s assists.

Meanwhile, the second game of the night lived up to all expectations, though it was Uitvlugt who booked a place in the semifinals.

An own goal in the 4th minute and a double from Charles Stoby in the 8th and 50th minutes ended a dominant performance from Uitvlugt as they now face the biggest challenge against the defending champions.

The Slingerz FC/Uitvlugt game will be the second game on Saturday (March 1) with Den Amstel and Pouderoyen playing in the opening fixture from 18:30hrs.

Apart from Stag Beer, Double Day Rentals, Nicola’s Bar, R&K Gas station, First Choice Waters and Two Brothers Service Station are the other sponsors on board so far.

Guyanese cricketers arrive in Kingston for 4-Day tournament … skipper Leon Johnson suffers injury, replaced by Amir Khan

KINGSTON, Jamaica - Veteran Guyanese batsmen Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan headline a strong Guyana team that arrived in Jamaica yesterday for the first round Regional Four Day clash against hosts Jamaica at Sabina Park starting on Friday.

They are joined by West Indies players Narsingh Deonarine, Assad Fudadin, Christopher Barnwell, Veersammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo and Sewnarine Chattergoon in what is being described as one of the strongest Guyana sides in many years.

The rest of the squad reads Anthony Bramble, Amir Khan, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph and Vishal Singh.

The team is coached by former player Esaun Crandon and managed by Alvin Johnson.

Chanderpaul, who will be leading the team in this year’s Regional Four-Day championship, says his team will be

Leon Johnson looking to get off to a good start against Jamaica.

“We know that playing Jamaica at Sabina Park will be a tough assignment, but we have one of the strongest squads in the tournament on paper and we are hoping to transfer that unto the field, come Friday.”

The Guyanese will be without last year’s leading run-scorer in Leon Johnson who scored 430 runs in six matches. Johnson report-

See page 32

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2014