Guyana chronicle e paper 05 12 2018

SATURDAY 12th May, 2018

Man confesses to high-seas crimes No.105272

…but says wasn’t part of Suriname attack

House clears $788M for ICJ legal fees

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The National Assembly in full swing during the debate on supplementary provisions for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday (Adrian Narine photo)

CCJ frees Gov't to take 10 GECOM 05 Lusignan 12 second look at opens $20M Massacre duo Cyber Bill- AFC Linden office PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May12, 2018

Gov’t assures of airworthiness of new aircraft for GDF …as House passes $484.2M to settle final payments

THE four aircraft to be secured by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will be sourced from Belgium and Brazil, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon announced to the National Assembly on Friday.

Harmon was at the time responding to questions posed by Opposition Member and former Minister of Home Affairs under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Clement Rohee. Last month, the Minister of State announced that the GDF is in the process of acquiring two Islanders and two Skyvans to add to its fleet of aircraft.

He explained that the re-

conditioned vehicles which were manufactured in 1977 or thereabout will be used by the army to move its troops across the country, but will not be limited to only the GDF. It will also utilised by the Joint Services for varying operations.

Harmon, a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the GDF, who now sits on the Defence Board, told the House that the use of the identified aircraft is not new to the GDF, as the military officers of the Air Corps have been operating these machines for many years. “Mr Chairman Skyvans are out of Belgium but owned by an American

Opposition Member Clement Rohee

company, Liberty Aviation of… Greensborough North Carolina…the Islanders are from Brazil,” Harmon stated.

The GDF has requested a total of $484, 239, 000 for the acquisition of the four aircraft.

Under the Agency Head of Defence and Security Support, it is explained that the GDF has already identified financing to the tune of $213, 885,000 from within its 2018 capital programme to meet the initial payments for the acquisition of the four aircraft. The additional sums are now requested to facilitate the final payment for the aircraft. The $484M

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

was approved by the National Assembly on Friday evening.

Rohee asked Harmon to inform the House of the uses of the Skyvans and Islanders before being purchased by the GDF. “Mr Chairman, the Islanders were for passenger, cargo and the Skyvan was for paratrooping and troop-carrying purposes,” said Harmon, who noted that the said aircraft are no longer being manufactured. “These aircraft, particularly the Skyvan and the Islanders are aircraft…when people have them you don’t sell them; it is like having a Rolls Royce.

What is happening is that they have not been in production for some time now, but there are many countries around the world that operate these aircraft.”

The Minister of State assured the Committee of Supply that issues of spares, maintenance and training will not arise as members of the GDF are well expe-

rienced in handling the aircraft. “They are very sought after aircraft because of their capability and allows for short takeoff and landing, useful for the type of airstrips we have in Guyana, 90 per cent of which are short airstrips and therefore these aircraft are specifically suited for those circumstances,” Harmon explained.

However, Rohee questioned whether sufficient due diligence was carried out by the GDF in the purchasing of the aircraft. “On the question of spares, could minister say whether he has been assured by the company that… spares are included in the package and the shelf life of the spares are satisfactory to the GDF? Harmon assured that preliminary inspections were done on the aircraft in particular, the airframe and the number of hours flown on the aircraft. He assured the House that the spares for the aircraft are easily accessible because of the number of Skyvans that are operational in Guyana. He said too that the GDF still has an operational Skyvan. “We have no difficulty in acquiring the spares,” he assured. Additionally, the Minister of State made it clear that the GDF has experienced maintenance personnel and pilots.

“We have seven fully trained and certified engineers, some of the senior engineers have about 25 years of service and some of the juniors have about 12 years of experience in this matter,” Harmon stated, while disclosing that members of the team have been trained

by the original aircraft manufacturers.

There are three training and checking captains, five captains that are ATPL( Airline Transport Pilot Licence) qualified, many of whom have over 25 years’ experience. The Minister of State made it clear that the decision to purchase the aircraft was made by the National Defence Board with a national plan in mind. He said the aircraft will not be for the sole use of the GDF but will be “available to the rest of the state for use.”

Rohee then questioned whether at any point the government intends to use the newly acquired aircraft for commercial purposes.

“These aircraft are for the use of the Defence Force and other security forces.

They are not bought with the commercial purpose in mind,” Harmon replied, making it clear that they will be used for the surveillance of borders, land and sea, search and rescue and other operations.

Meanwhile, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira questioned why the GDF did not consider the use of a Twin Otter aircraft and whether the airworthiness of the aircraft has been checked

by GDF in Belgium and Brazil. Harmon referenced the Brazilian Aviation Authority as the entity in Brazil that is being engaged relative to the aircraft secured from that country.

“We will certainly have those certificates before we can move the aircraft from the hangars…all checks have been done and additional checks will be done before we actually move the aircraft,” the Minister of State assured, while noting that the Twin otters are as good as Islanders but said the Islanders are more versatile and spares are easier to come by and the GDF is better equipped to deal with that type of aircraft.

Opposition Chief Teixeira said she hopes that the decision to purchase the aircraft is not because the majority of commercial operators have Islanders and the GDF pilots use Islanders here. Harmon made it clear that the price also had a role to play in the acquisition of the aircraft, as a Twin Otter costs between US$2.4M to $4M for a used one and a new Twin Otter is being sold at US$7M. Islanders are being sold at US$300,000. The four aircraft are expected to be delivered one month after the full payment of sums is made by the GDF. Harmon noted that the illegal aircraft which have entered Guyana over the past two years remain in the custody of the state. “There are still some legal processes that have to be completed,” the Minister of State disclosed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

House clears $788M for ‘border controversy’ legal fees … Min Greenidge says ICJ yet to set schedule for case

By Ariana Gordon

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ request for $788, 049, 000 to meet estimated legal and related costs associated with lawyers representing Guyana at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy case was approved by the National Assembly, Friday.

The sum, which forms part of Financial Paper No. 2 of 2018, and totals $2, 526, 563, 240 representing supplementary estimates for current and capital expenditure, was debated Friday. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had

SIGNING BONUS Finance Minister Winston Jordan had earlier announced that the US$18M signing bonus remains in the Bank of Guyana, but has been invested in U.S. treasury bills and Canadian bonds where it is accumulating interest. Jordan told reporters that while the money has not been used, it has already accumulated US$36,169 in interest.

“I have the latest statement from the Bank of Guyana, and it says that the account has a balance of US$18,036,169,” he stated.

“All US$18 million is still in the account, plus the interest, of course. During 2018, since we did not know when the United Nations Secretary-General would make his decision, we did not put any amounts in the budget.

So now, what we will have to do is go for supplementary.

This supplementary will be based on Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ indication as to how much they think we will have to pay the lawyers and others who provide services related to the ICJ matter,” Jordan had explained.

But Greenidge’s response did not find favour with the Opposition Chief Whip, who reminded the House that in December 2017, some $300,000,000 was approved.

At that time, Guyana was not informed that the matter had been forwarded to the ICJ for resolution. “What is the size of the legal team, the salaries and benefits, and could you advise if we have hired consultants both local and foreign? Teixeira asked as Greenidge, who was ably backed by his colleagues on the government side of the House, jumped to his feet. The Foreign Minister said he understands that members of the opposition may not be

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge already received some $300,000,000 as part of its voted provisions.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge in response to questions posed by Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira maintained that his government is following the right procedure to request funds for the said purpose. Some US$15M of the US$18M in signing bonus received from US oil giant ExxonMobil in 2016 will be used to pay for services relative to the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy which has been placed before the Hague-based ICJ. Government has said that the signing bonus would at some point be transferred to the Consolidated Fund, after which government would have to make applications to the National Assembly for its approval of the identified sums to pay persons for their services.

“Mr Chairman, the request contained in the supplementary reflects the estimated expenditure that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will incur as a result of obtaining counsel for fighting the case at the ICJ,” said Greenidge in response to Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira’s queries.

Teixeira asked whether the $788M as requested by the Foreign Affairs Ministry is part of the US$15M signing bonus. “The ministry anticipates; and we have to anticipate because lawyers are paid on a time basis essentially, and at this point in time we anticipate that the demands on the lawyers hand should not cost more than the figure shown… It may be more, it may be less. We are not able to anticipate that. The portion or total that is shown here is the expenditure we anticipate in 2018,” said Greenidge, who noted that come 2019 or 2020, there will be estimates of the amounts needed in those years.

Teixeira then questioned why the government has decided against transferring all of the US$18M to the Consolidated Fund. “I am not sure I understand the intent of the question.

We have indicated to the Parliament to fund the exercise; the exercise takes place across a number financial years, and so we don’t plan to transfer it all in the year… We will transfer in the year to which the expenditure arises,” responded the Foreign Affairs Minister.

Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira too familiar with how legal fees are spent, because in the CGX case relative to Suriname, “it never came to the House”. It was this latter statement of Greenidge’s that resulted in Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and other members voicing much objection. “CGX never paid any money to us…,” said Jagdeo who was backed up by opposition members.

“Mr Chairman, I am trying to explain that as regards lawyers and the work they are going to do on this particular occasion, we are only able to tell you that the monies will cover things associated with the hours spent by the lawyers and any additional expenses they identify. The question of gratuity is not part of any standard arrangement,” Greenidge said in response, following the intervention of the Chairman of the Committee of Supply and House Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland through the constant pounding of his gavel to maintain order in the House.

Notwithstanding the cross-talking by members of the Opposition, Minister Greenidge notified the House that Guyana is being represented by a core team of lawyers.

He explained that the team is “not quite complete”, but as things and time progress, lawyers and law firms will

be added to the team to address challenges. “I can’t say all the lawyers; I don’t know, a lot of this will depend on what the other side does,” he said noting that the ICJ is yet to set the schedule of how the case will proceed.

The Foreign Minister said that funds are needed to pay the retained attorneys soonest.

PREVIOUS FUNDS The Opposition clearly not satisfied with the response provided asked Greenidge to inform the House of the amount of money used from the budgeted $300M given that the supplementary amount is being sought in May, a mere five months after the $300M was approved by the House.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs said the $300M was utilised for previous arrangements which arose from interface with the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) along with his Personal Representative. Additionally, part of the money has been used to make payments to other consultants and lawyers associated with works relative to the Border Commission in Suriname. “That is separate from the amounts that are required to meet the expenses of the team. The ICJ issue is being treated separate. We do have other obligations… and other activities associated with the defence of our territory,” the Minister stated.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo questioned whether the Consolidated Fund “would go broke in 2018”, “does the Minister think we would run out of foreign currency and what is the compelling reason for keeping the entire sum of money outside of the Consolidated Fund in breach of the FMAA [Fiscal Management and Accountability Act]?” asked Jagdeo. In response, Greenidge said, “the answer to all the questions is no. As regards the final query regarding the Consolidated Fund, there is a minister here with that responsibility.”

Standing on a point of order, Finance Minister Winston Jordan reminded the House that the matter relative to the Signing Bonus is still engaging the local courts.

“We are treading dangerously on a matter that is before the court. Sir I beseech you,” said Jordan. Jagdeo a former President then questioned whether as indicated in Article 33 (1) of the government’s contract with U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil government upon transfer of money to the Consolidated Fund will share with the said company details of the accounts holding the sums.

“I believe the reference to the signing bonus itself is misplaced. We have two elements, one is expenditure and one is revenue. We are asking permission to spend…By the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act we are required to seek the permission of the House to undertake expenditure…it has nothing to do with the source.” Greenidge made it clear that questions relative to a third party must be asked to the appropriate minister.

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May12, 2018

Kenya’s Patel dam bursts --killing at least 41

AT least 41 people have died after heavy rains caused a dam to burst in Kenya, sweeping away homes across a vast area of farmland.

The breach happened on Wednesday near the town of Solai, 190km (120 miles) north-west of the capital,

Nairobi.

The dead are thought to include children and women trapped in mud. The Kenyan Red Cross says it has rescued about 40 people so far.

More than 2,000 people are said to have been left homeless.

Local officials say the full extent of the damage is not yet clear. There are fears the death toll could rise as the search-and-rescue operation continues.

The heavy rains in Kenya and other regional states come after a severe drought which left millions of people in need of food aid.

Eleven bodies, mostly of women and children, were recovered at a coffee

plantation, an unnamed police officer told AFP news agency.

It seemed that they had been fleeing but “could not make it due to the force and speed of the water from the flooded dam,” the officer added.

The Patel dam, located on private farmland, and reportedly used for irrigation and fish farming, broke its walls and swept

away hundreds of homes downstream.

Much of the area was completely devastated as power lines, homes and buildings were carried away by the fast-running water.

A secondary school was also flooded, while a primary school was swept away.

The bodies of two women were discovered several miles away from the area affected by the bursting of the dam, the Reuters news agency reported.

Witnesses said they heard a loud bang before the waves swept through nearly 2km (1.2 miles) of farmland where many people live and

work.

On Thursday, rescue workers brandishing shovels scoured through the rubble and mud, searching for survivors and victims “The water has caused huge destruction of both life and property. The extent of the damage has yet to be ascertained,” said Lee Kinyajui, governor of Nakuru County.

Miriam Karimi told AFP she had not been able to find her three children in the aftermath, including her four-year-old son.

“I’m so confused. I hope they are alive,” she said. (BBC)

Fresh mass protests rock Nicaragua

TENS of thousands of Nicaraguans have taken part in fresh anti-government protests in the capital, Managua, and in Matagalpa y Chinandega.

Wearing the blue and white of the flag, Wednesday’s protesters held pictures of people reportedly killed in last month’s demonstrations.

Government supporters held

a smaller rally in another part of the capital.

Last month’s unrest began after President Daniel Ortega approved cuts to pensions and social security.

Four police officers, two of them women, were shot at on Wednesday following the anti-government protest in Managua, but officials said the attack was not related to

the march.

“A group of vandals fired their guns at a police patrol which was directing traffic,” deputy police director Francisco Díaz said.

SPREADING DISCONTENT At last month’s protests, pensioners were soon joined by students and other Nica-

raguans who have become the biggest challenge to Mr Ortega’s authority since he took office in 2007.

President Ortega revoked his plans to overhaul the social security system, but the move failed to quell the protests in which more than 40 people have been killed, according to human rights groups.

He also called for a “na-

tional dialogue”, but meetings between his government and protesters which were meant to be mediated by the Catholic Church have yet to take place.

Demonstrators on Wednesday were demanding “freedom of expression and information and an end to violence”, as well as calling for President Ortega to step down.

There has been discontent

with the president, who is serving his third consecutive term in office, for years in some parts of society.

The 2014 scrapping of presidential term limits has been seen as a threat to democracy, and some of those who have been demonstrating have accused Mr Ortega and his wife of having “dictatorial tendencies”. (BBC)

Saturday, May 12, 2018 –– 14:30 & 2:30 hrs Sunday, May 12, 2018 –– 14:30 & 3:00 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

GECOM commissions $20M Mackenzie office

GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson gets help cutting the ceremonial ribbon from a pupil of the Watooka Day School to officially declare open new GECOM Mackenzie office in Linden

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Thursday commissioned a spanking new two- storey office on Republic Avenue, Mackenzie Linden, to the tune of $20M. Gracing the simple but significant ceremony were GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson and Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Keith Lowenfield. The 11 permanent staff members will now work in a conducive and comfortable working environment that will enable them to effectively and efficiently serve their constituents in District 10.

CEO Lowenfield, in his short address, said that it is stipulated in GECOM’s constitution that sub-offices should be in each district, so as to establish a standard that will be maintained throughout Guyana. This was necessary in District 10, given the vastness of the territory,

which borders seven other regions, and encompasses all three counties. “It is a large territory, and therefore important to efficiently manage every community, every division within the area wherever Guyanese are resident in that area,” Lowenfield said.

While not too many complaints came out of District 10, Lowenfield is remaining optimistic that the number will move to nil, with the putting into use of the new building.

“This building here today is a mandate of the Commission that all our staff members across Guyana, wherever they function, should be in a comfortable environment to ensure the services they provide to registrants and to the electors are easily accessible,” Lowenfield said, adding: “That is no small area we’re talking about. We have to ensure all those persons

Guyanese woman found dead in house in St Kitts POLICE in St Kitts and Nevis are investigating the death of Petronella Hinds, a Guyanese woman, A police report from the island stated that at about 3:45 pm on Thursday, May 10, 2018 the Charlestown Police Station received a report from the Medical Services that having responded to an emergency call, they found the 34-year-old Hinds of Cane Garden dead.

The report added that the woman’s motionless body was in the house of one, Muriel Archibald, in Farms Estate. The scene was processed and a number of items of evidential value were collected and taken into police custody. In addition, house to house inquiries were conducted and several persons were interviewed.

Petronella Hinds

An autopsy will be carried out shortly, the police release stated.

According to the police, an individual is in custody assisting with the ongoing investigations and persons with information about the incident are being urged to call the Charlestown Police Station at 469-5391 or their nearest Police Station.

who are 14 years and older by a prescribed time are registered.”

The CEO said he was happy with the services of the district, and is hoping that as Local Government Election approaches, the building will add to the functionality of the officers.

Justice Patterson, in his address, urged the officers to care the facility, and to upkeep the standard that he has witnessed on his visit.

He also commended the

officers and employees for overcoming the various challenges they faced in the old building. This spirit, he said, has also helped him to overcome various challenges he faced since he was appointed chairman.

The Commission is hoping that in the future, it will also have its own office on the Wismar shore. Several new regional offices around Guyana were also commissioned.

A section of the new GECOM office

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May12, 2018

Healthy eating for healthy living THERE is a saying that we are what we eat. In simple, uncomplicated language and meaning this means that our choice of foods will have consequences for our health.

It will determine our ailments or not; our productive years as a family provider, and how well we can enjoy life, right on to how long we will live.

We have lived in a part of the world where our traditional culinary experience for decades have mostly revolved around starchy foods such as rice and ground provisions; flour products such as bread and cakes of all make; meat products and sugary beverages. Of course, there were vegetables, which although have always been available at our markets, have also been popular. Good for salads, and steamed, it was a hit with most of our population, especially at their younger phase of life. These days, it is observed that many young children although enjoying a dish with stewed vegetables, tend to resist the latter when steamed, or even when done in salads.

Today, it can be said that most of our mature-aged population were not as well informed in their younger years, as they are now, with regards the importance of healthy eating and the importance it played in their physical and mental lives. Decades ago, “good eating”, or “eating well’’ used to be measured in the quantity of meat that one had on one’s plate; how well one’s bread had been lined with cheese and margarine; fried eggs were mostly the norm, rather than being boiled. Fats and oil were used to prepare virtually every dish; the descriptions of soluble as against non-soluble were mostly unknown, and sugar especially was quite prominent in the taste of teas and beverages of all kinds. But salt was sparing in its use, lest it spoiled the meal.

The word cholesterol was unknown to most; much less that it was a primary factor with regards fatty and oily meals, and overconsumption of starchy foods. Again, most were not knowledgeable about its centrality to hy-

pertension and heart diseases; diabetes and renal failure, and strokes, or that too much of the above, led to those stated ailments that are all interlinked; and neither was being over-sized, fat, or obese, and pot-bellied linked to what was eaten, and was a sign of ill-health rather than the traditional view of “looking good”.

Of course, one would listen to relatives, and neighbours speak about their challenges with “sugar” and “pressure”, without the understanding and knowledge that these two illnesses were linked to high fats and starches in foods, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle. But although such had been the case, it was definite that those ailments on the basis of empirical evidence were not as common as they have gradually become through the years.

With the passage of time, it is evident that more people have been falling ill, stricken with what has become known as lifestyle diseases, which include what is eaten for foods, and other habits, deemed not good for healthy living.

Healthy eating has become the mantra of modern medical advice. In fact, hardly a visit to a doctor ends without this advice that has become critically necessary, against the background of the very high incidence of non-communicable diseases. If we are to be guided by statistics from the Ministry of Public Health, there are in excess of 65,000 citizens who have been diagnosed with one of the following cases of non-communicable diseases: Hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes, with its end result of renal failure. There may be a possible 10,000 to 15,000 more persons, waiting to be diagnosed on becoming ill.

Given such a high number of cases, and the fact that these medical incidents are often life threatening if left unchecked, and that they are linked in a significant way to what we eat, it is evident that renewed emphases must be placed on highlighting what is sensible eating. We contend that this is necessary given the modern eating culture of fast

foods, and their known harm to daily health.

What is healthy eating, and its guide to healthy living, should begin as early as the nursery and primary levels of school, with easy to follow and understand lessons, both by teachers and health professionals. For example, given the known resistance of children to eating vegetables, they must be taught from such an early stage of life, the importance of such a food, in daily diets, and what role it plays in protecting the body against possible illnesses, as well as the harm that its absence can cause.

It is not too early for them to be taught using modern visual aids with appropriate teaching aids, what eating healthy means for growing healthy and becoming productive adults with healthy families.

But a greater role and responsibility must lie with parents and guardians, towards this very critical initiative of inculcating in their young the importance of healthy eating for healthy living. For they must realise that it is in their hands lie the responsibility for being the first guides for their children, in this very important lesson in healthy eating.

For these parents, especially, healthy eating is also pivotal to their personal physical well-being, in being able to birth healthy offspring. It is instructive to note that there are more children, being found with congenital cardiac defects that necessitate surgical intervention for corrective purposes. This, from a layman’s perspective, seems linked to the health status of either one or both parents. Thus, healthy eating for healthy living must become the nation’s watchword, with such an orientation beginning almost from the cradle, and parents being its prime leaders.

IDPADA-G looks forward to working with gov’t, citizens

Dear Editor

DURING the 2018 budget debate there was a furore in the National Assembly about the existence of International Decade for People of African Descent AssemblyGuyana (IDPADA-G). This organisation went through a gestation period from November 2016 to October 2017 after President Granger, in his address at the annual Cuffy 250 Forum, mandated the forum to be responsive to the UN’s declared decade for People of African Descent by organising the African Guyanese community in pursuit of the realisation of the theme of the decade: Recognition, Justice and Development. In the 2018 budget, the organisation was granted a subvention of G$68M to establish a secretariat and co-

ordinate the efforts of the African Guyanese community in their endeavour to realise the theme of this United Nations Decade.

The organisation, also known as the Country Coordinating Mechanism for the Decade, held its first Annual General Assembly on December 17, 2017. At that meeting, its charter was approved; its membership confirmed; its operational plan for 2018 outlined and its coordinating council, committees and sub-committees established.

In keeping with the charter, the assembly appointed Vincent Alexander as chairman and Drs. Simpson DaSilva and Norman Ng-A-Qui, Johnathan Adams, and Esther Gittens as members of the coordinating council. Dr. Mark Kirton was subsequently co-opted to the council.

The council held a Special General Assembly on May 6 at which the appointment of its Executive Director was ratified, and Ms. Olive Sampson was installed as the CEO/Secretary and member of the coordinating council. Ms. Sampson, an activist for the causes of people of African descent both here and abroad for many years, brings years of leadership in senior management to this position.

The assembly also received a report on other ongoing activities of the council including the setting up of the secretariat at a building it secured at 121 Regent Road, Bourda, where it will soon open its doors to the public. The assembly already has received over one dozen project proposals from African Guyanese groups; two of which have been

identified for funding. These projects are capacity building ventures focused on African Guyanese youth and women.

The assembly’s operational plan is streamlined under four headings: Policy, Programme, Projects and Special Projects with four sub-heads: Employment, Economy, Education and Equality/Expiation. IDPADA-G will seek to influence the direction of Government in those areas as well as foster African Guyanese community self-activism around these issues.

IPADA-G, since its conception in late 2016 and its inception in late 2017, has established the foundation for the work which it intends to pursue during and beyond the decade. In addition, during this period, IDPADA-G established a

COMPACT among African Guyanese organisations under which it has been making representation on behalf of African Guyanese individuals and organisations requiring urgent representation to address wrong-doings and injustices that have befallen them.

IDPADA-G looks forward to working with Government and all Guyanese in its quest to redress the historical and current injustices that have bedevilled the African Guyanese community and to build a just Guyana for all.

Regards IDPADA-G The Country Coordinating Mechanism United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

Apostle horrified at fallout between bishops Dear Editor It is with deep consternation and apprehension that I take some time off from my Ecclesiastical duties to address a particular culture/issue that is slowly taking away credit from an institution, which is named the church.

Since the era of Jim Jones and his cultic sects’ destructive act of killing 914 souls at Jonestown in the month of November 1987; there have been talks of the church in a negative say. Many don’t understand or have a clue as to the church’s mandate.

On Saturday morning, May 5, 2018 I was at the Bourda Market buying coconut water from a vendor; I used a $1,000 bill to pay for a $200 coconut. He had no change. In doing so, he saw money in my wallet and made a joke about leaving some money with him. I then told him I’d rather leave money with the church.

This young man began a series of tirade degrading the church in the most disrespectful way. I immediately

defended the integrity and the authenticity of this institution called “The Church”. He apologised!

By the time I reached home. I picked up my regular newspaper and low and behold there is a letter highlighting Bishop Joseph G. Fisher’s letter I read on Friday May 4, 2018. I am aware of the many missteps made by several officers of the Christian faith over the past 40 years. The core thought conveyed within Bishop Fisher’s tirade against Bishop Juan A. Edghill was uncalled for.

Editor, I recall 40 years ago I shared my thoughts with someone I trusted about writing a book; that someone went around speaking evil of my name to several church leaders.

I went ahead and published my first of 12 books and sent copies to various church leaders. Again, the same thing happens over and over again, where some people are annoyed and envious over one’s progress within the Ministry of their calling.

In 1980, I wrote a National Poem on Guyana, thereafter, I was interviewed by the local radio station. I read the poem for the first time on radio. On another occasion I recited this poem at one of our church services, when one of the leaders of the church made a remark that was tantamount to me wanting to become famous as a writer and went on to name countries where my name will be mentioned.

True leaders never seek fame and popularity. Some people question the authority of God within my life as a Minister of the Gospel and even my writings for many seasons.

For the years I have been in Ministry, I have had to deal with issues of jealousy, envy, hatred and malice in the rawest of ways that is not lawful or conducive to mention here; but I have learned that when a man’s life pleases God, even his enemies become his friend, if you live long enough and be true to your God and Saviour Jesus Christ you will overcome.

I sent copies of my writings to those who are not

Relationship between jury foreman and Nigel Hughes Dear Editor AFTER the acquittal of Mr. James Anthony Hyles and Mr. Mark Royden Williams in 2013 by a mixed jury at the Demerara Assizes, several news reports carried various stories about the relationship between the foreman of the jury and myself, as the defence counsel for the Mr. Hyles.

The reports included, but were not limited to the allegation that the foreman of the jury was a past client of mine is a matter which was not disclosed at the time of the trial. During the several stages of the subsequent appeal I refrained from any comment on the issue. The finding of the Caribbean Court of Justice on this issue is as follows. “We are satisfied that if the judge had applied that test and analysed the history of the relationship between Mr. Hughes and the foreman he would have concluded that a fair-minded observer would not have perceived a real possibility of bias.

As mentioned, the matter in which Mr. Hughes had represented the foreman, which he lost, had concluded in 2008, some five years before the trial. Since that

time, not only had counsel appeared in a court matter in opposition to the foreman, but the foreman had publicly demonstrated himself to be an adversary of counsel by participating in a picket against him. These facts do not indicate a relationship that would have been favourable to Mr. Hughes or his client, Hyles. We, therefore, do not agree with the findings of the Court of

Appeal on this ground of appeal. In light of the foregoing, the failure to disclose could not reasonably have affected the impartiality of the jury or the fairness of the trial, and therefore gave rise to no material irregularity.”

Regards C. A. Nigel Hughes Partner, Hughes, Fields & Stoby

appreciative of my work and some of them marvel and thank me in the end for doing what God has called me to do. So, beloved Bishop Edghill, “Stay calm, continue steadfast and see beyond.”

Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

Matt. 16:18. Sometimes the devil and his angels are right behind the pulpit; you know how to cast those imaginations and thoughts out of the way. I wish you God-speed!

Maranatha! Maranatha!

Finally Editor, kindly permit me to use my privilege and authority given me to caution anyone and I mean anyone, whether rich or poor, high or low that is tempted to speak evil of the church, to hold their peace and avoid saying good or bad; less or more; of the church if they don’t have an understanding of the mandate and mission of the church let them be silent.

Furthermore, Mr. Ed-

itor, if our leaders both secular and ecclesiastical pray: Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed by thy Name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done…for thine is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory for ever and ever Amen. We will see each other in the light of his glorious plan and purpose for our lives and the Nation of Guyana.

Regards Apostle Vanrick Beresford

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

House pays tribute to fallen PPP stalwarts

MEMBERS of Parliament on both sides of the House stood as one on Friday to pay tribute to the lives of former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) MPs Mr. Alli Baksh, who at one time served as Junior Agriculture Minister, and Mr. Mooner Ahmad Khan.

Eulogising Baksh, who was 70 when he died on

November 23, 2017 following a prolonged illness, was Opposition Chief Whip Ms Gail Teixeira, who described her colleague as a humble, faithful, quiet, respectful and hardworking member of the PPP. “He represented the best of the PPP, making it a political force to be reckoned with. Alli remained

unshakable in his commitment and dedication to his party,” she said.

His widow, children and grandchildren who were present in the Parliament Chambers, heard of Baksh’s dedicated service to Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), which he served as Regional Chairman for several terms from 1992.

Beat his wife then says he’s sorry A HUSBAND was on Friday sentenced to six months in prison by Magistrate Leron Daly for assaulting his wife.

It was alleged that on January 18, 2018 at South Sophia, Omaid Batson assaulted and maliciously wounded Keisha Henry causing her bodily harm.

The father of four pleaded guilty to the charge.

According to the facts that were presented in court by police prosecutor Sanj Singh, the virtual complainant went home in the company bus in which she was the only occupant other than the driver. As a result, Batson

became annoyed and gave the wife several cuffs to her face which caused her to become temporarily blind for three days.

The prosecutor also told the court that the virtual complainant (VC) gave a caution statement that she lived in an abusive relationship with the defendant but was afraid to talk out.

Before passing sentence the magistrate asked the defendant if he wanted to say anything. His reply was: “It was a misunderstanding and I am very sorry for my action.”

After listening to Batson, the magistrate sentenced him to six months in prison.

Attempt to forge tint permit OKEMAH Edwards on Friday appeared before a city magistrate on a forgery charge.

It was alleged that between April 24, 2017 and February 16, 2018 at Georgetown, with intend to defraud Edwards conspired to forge one motor vehicle tint permit issued by the Ministry of Public Security.

Prosecutor Sanj Singh had no objection to bail being granted to the 25-year-old miner of Friendship, East Coast Demerara, who pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Bail was granted in the sum of $50,000

by Magistrate Leron Daly before whom he appeared and the matter was adjourned to May 18, 2018.

A born Essequibian, Teixeira said Baksh was always representing the people of his region, and played an integral role in the development of the region’s agriculture, education and health sectors.

He always pushed for the upward mobility of women in politics, she said, and was Guyanese to the bone, which was demonstrated in his many fights for the working people who were discriminated against for various reasons.

Government MP, Mr Hemraj Rajkumar, who also hails from Essequibo, described Baksh as a true son of the soil who served the people of Essequibo in various capacities, demonstrating a special interest in agriculture and in particu-

lar the rice sector, since he himself was a rice farmer.

“Even though we were on the opposite side of the political divide, we were cordial and shared mutual respect for each other,” Rajkumar said.

“We were honoured to have such a prime gentle Guyanese patriotic soul amongst us. We wish to convey our undying respect, and we send our deepest sympathy to Mrs Baksh, the children, grandchildren and all relatives of Alli’s,” Texiera added.

Opposition MP, Mr Clement Rohee eulogised the life of the late Mooner Ahmad Khan, who died on November 14, 2017.

He was hailed for his dedicated service to the party since he became a member in 1953. He was

appointed senator in 1961 and an MP in 1972. “He believed in representation of all Guyanese, and passionately took part in debates so that he could obtain justice for all,” Rohee attested. The House heard that Khan’s specialty was agriculture, and was thus appointed Chairman of the Guyana Rice Marketing Board, which organisation he kept alive during trying socio-political changes in the country. An articulate and powerful man, Rohee recalled that he also passionately represented farmers. “Mr Mooner Ahmad Khan was passionate about the rice industry, being the son of a rice farmer from the island of Leguan,” he said.

His immediate family members were also present in the Chambers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

AFC: Gov’t ‘actively pursuing’ campaign financing legislation by 2020 AS Guyana prepares for its first oil production by the year 2020, the Government is “actively pursuing” the securing a Campaign Financing Legislative draft to manage the funding of upcoming political campaigns.

At a press conference hosted by the Alliance For Change (AFC) on Friday, it was highlighted that the increase in revenue the country will soon experience must be properly managed to avert exploitation.

Speaking on the matter, AFC Chairman and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan said that discussions have been held on such matters with the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Akbar Khan.

Ramjattan said that through these interactions, the government hopes to be guided by the Commonwealth’s drafts. “We support Campaign Financing Legislation; we are going to tap into those resources to ensure that we come up with a Campaign Financing Legislation that is modern enough to take care of all the concerns,” he said.

AFC Chairman and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan

Continuing on matters pertaining to the oil-and-gas sector, AFC Vice- Chairman and Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson reminded the media that the Natural Resource Fund Bill is soon to be passed in the National Assembly.

The Bill, which seeks to effectively manage the country’s natural resources wealth, will be tabled and hopefully passed before the end of the year.

“I am satisfied that in Cabinet, we would have had the full update on it,” Minister Patterson said, adding: “There’s one outstanding issue before we send it to the

AFC Vice- Chairman and Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson

big assembly, so it will be here and in place long before any oil is produced.”

Patterson then spoke on the topic of local content, stating that the obligation rests not on ExxonMobil to solicit Guyanese to fill available positions in the industry but for Guyanese to position themselves to benefit.

He made these remarks because of his own observation that many local companies are not applying to be a part of the oil and gas sector despite the fruitful opportunities which exist.

Elaborating further, he revealed that within the maritime sector he has personally gathered the documents of

AFC Executive Member and Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes

companies presenting them to ExxonMobil for employment.

In previous years, he met with a group of cruise ship company owners who hired over 100 local mariners who are now employed in the

maritime industry across the world.

Patterson said that he is unaware of a company within the maritime sector which has been rejected having provided the necessary documents for application and cases of rejection are very rare.

“We have companies that are eligible here in Guyana but for some strange reason, don’t actually apply…maybe they feel they won’t get through [but] sometimes the onus is not only on Exxon, the onus is on us,” he said.

“It is all well and good to sit down and shout that it’s an overseas company, we must be able to say that we have a company that can do it or we have pathway to get a company that can do it,” he said.

Meanwhile AFC Executive Member and Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes recommended that to improve chances of being employed in the oil and gas sector, companies should band together.

“Quite often, one particular company may not have the capacity and I think one of the areas we’re not focusing on sufficiently in Guyana is how do two or three companies partner and collaborate so that they stand a better chance.

“Because it’s a competitive process, we don’t have a history in this industry and more and more local providers have to come together and create their own joint venture partnership,” she said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

‘Government to take a second look at Cyber Crime Bill’ - AFC

DUE to concerns arising with regards to the sedition clause within the Cyber Crime Bill currently before the National Assembly, the Government will be “taking a second look” into the choice of wording within the bill.

Assurance of this came from Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan on Friday, during a press conference hosted by the Alliance for Change (AFC) at its headquarters in Georgetown.

Much debate have arisen from Clause 18.1 of the Bill, which states that a person can commit an offence of

sedition through publication, transmission, online circulation or any other means such as a statement or words, either spoken or written, a text, video, image, sign, visible representation, or other thing.

Ramjattan, Chairman of the AFC, acknowledged that the formulation of certain words within Section 18: 1 of the Bill, has also caused concern by some members within the AFC party leadership He explained that along with himself, members from the party including Michael Carrington and Audwin Rutherford were a part of the Special Select Committee examining the Bill.

But although the representatives had once approved of the proposed legislation, concerns that are now surfacing suggest that the necessary persons “will have to take a second look at that wording.”

Ramjattan said that though many are concerned that the Bill will pose a threat to press freedom,this is far from the truth.

“I want to make it clear that those who indicated as if we are affecting freedom of expression; I have written major pieces on freedom of expression within the press… and it is not in any way going to affect it.

“That is why we were very cautious, although we have a Section 18: 1 that says sedition by use of computers

or Facebook and internet is an offence, we also have a paragraph 18:4 (b) that says criticism of the Government, criticism of any minister and even wanting to lawfully change the Government does not constitute the offence of sedition,” he said.

The public security minister said, too, that with this inclusion, at the time it was believed that all possible concerns were covered but due to recent alarms, the government will look into the matter.

He dispelled myths that a sedition law is bad, stating that it is a “good tool to have in an executive branch” and is common to many countries across the world helping to protect against violent and hateful actions.

“Sedition… is an offence that goes to the heart of civil strife in your country and people publishing letters and all of that, to ensure that there is civil disorder. It’s a part of American law, it is a part of the law of most Commonwealth countries,” he remarked.

He said, further, that the existing sedition law does not cover the issue of online activity and must be put in place to protect against same.

“When you go on a public platform and you get your microphone and you start causing civil stress, or if you write things in the newspapers that can cause civil strife

and disorder.

“But when you write it inside of Facebook or by use of a computer, that ingredient is what we now want to capture…we have a lot of things that are presently the law but if you do them on cyber space you can’t charge people, ” the minister explained.

Speaking too, AFC Executive Member and Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes said the contentions with the Bill which was in a Select Committee since 2016, should have been brought up earlier, especially by the Opposition.

“Every single organisation that has concerns regarding the current design of the Bill and the contents had an opportunity to write to the Parliamentary Select Committee, and to ask to go in and to make a presentation to the committee,” she commented.

“Why aren’t we, as a country, as civil society, as non-government organisations (NGOs), going through the proper channels of presenting any kind of concern you have, because the channels exist.”

When passed into law, the Bill is geared towards creating offences out of actions of a cyber nature, making provision for penalties, investigation and prosecution on those in breach of the law.

‘Pretend cop’ granted bail A MAN who allegedly pretended to be a policeman on the Essequibo Coast was on Friday granted bail for obtaining money under false pretense.

Forty-three-year-old Hemant Shilchand Narine of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo made his first appearance before Magistrate Esther

Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

It is alleged that on May 10 at La Union, on the Essequibo Coast, he uplifted $23,000 from housewife Bissondai Das under false pretense. He claimed that he was a police officer and he was conducting duties in relation to a sexual matter.

Wannabe policeman, Hemant Shilchand Narine Bissondai Das believed the man, and issued the money.

She later found out that the man was a con man, and was falsely obtaining money.

She then made a report to the police, where he was subsequently arrested.

He pleaded not guilty, and was granted $40,000 bail. The matter was postponed until June 13.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

CCJ ends E’bo family land dispute

THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on Thursday brought to an end a family dispute involving lands in Essequibo, Guyana.

In 2002, Kowsal Narine filed a claim against his brother, Deonarine Natram, claiming that their father, Mr. Nateram, had been in possession of the lands since 1959, and had therefore acquired prescriptive title to the lands.

Narine also claimed that he had acquired prescriptive title to the lands. The CCJ allowed the appeal, and declared that Narine had been in sole and undisturbed possession of the land since June 1, 1991, and that any title, right or interest of his brother had been extinguished.

According to the facts, in 1959, Mr. Nateram entered into an agreement to purchase the lands from Ashbourne Chan and Foster Chan, who were also named as defendants.

The lands totalled 5.21 acres, and are situated at Cultivation Block, number 62 in Section C, Golden Fleece, Essequibo at $360.00 per acre.

Mr Nateram had paid a deposit of $100.00, and was put into possession of the land by the Chans on April 4, 1959. The balance of the purchase price was to be paid off in six years, with interest running at the rate of 10% per annum.

Between August 1959 and August 1965, the deceased made five payments towards the purchase price totalling $1,630.00.

Thereafter, no further payments were made, except for the sum of $950.00 made in 1981 by his son Kowsal Narine on his behalf.

However, in 1989, Mr Nateram signed an agreement by which he gifted the land to Mr. Deonarine Natram, another son.

Natram subsequently approached the Chans, and they agreed to sell the land to him for $9950 on the same day, but transport was not passed to him by the Chans until 2002.

RESTRAINING ORDER Thereafter, Deonarine instituted court proceedings against Kowsal and another brother, Narine Nateram (also called Narine Natram) in which he sought damages, an injunction restraining them from working the land and an order that they yield up possession of the land.

Deonarine discontinued the claim in March 1990. Meanwhile, in May 1990, Mr Nateram made a will giving the lands to Narine. He died on May 31, 1991.

In his will, the deceased stated that the balance of the purchase price shall be paid by him, and have transport passed to him. On June 21, 2002, Deonarine obtained Transport Number 521/2002 from the Chans, and on August 20, 2002, he entered the land, burnt six bags of seed paddy, and warned Kowsal not to enter the lands anymore.

As a result of Deonarine’s actions, Kowsal began legal proceedings in the High Court. However, Deonarine appealed the decision of the trial judge.

The principal issue on appeal was whether a purchaser of land who was put into possession by his vendor entered in adverse possession. The Court of Appeal found that the deceased was not a tenant at will, but rather a purchaser under a contract of sale who was given exclusive possession pending comple-

tion of the contract. In those circumstances, and given recent decisions, such a purchaser was regarded a licensee.

The court said that though the deceased’s agreement with the Chans was for the purpose of sale, the pleadings supported the contention that he was “put into possession” by the Chans, so it was not unreasonable to conclude that he did so with their permission, and therefore could not acquire prescriptive title.

The court also disagreed with the trial judge’s finding that Kowsal had acquired prescriptive title, in his own right, as the evidence was not of the quality that should have satisfied the trial judge that he had the requisite intention to possess.

COSTS AWARDED The court concluded that, in any event, Kowsal could not succeed in his claim due to non-compliance with the Rules. The appeal was allowed, and costs awarded to Deonarine agreed in the sum of $100,000.00.

Three issues were considered by the Court in the appeal: Whether time could run for the purpose of prescriptive rights in favour of a purchaser who enters into possession with the agreement of the vendor, but who has not paid the full purchase price; whether Kowsal possessed the land in his own right and acquired prescriptive title following the death of the deceased; and whether a litigant can obtain a declaration of title without approaching the Land Court and complying with the Rules of the High Court.

The CCJ agreed with the Court of Appeal that the deceased was not a tenant at will. It also disagreed with the submission that paying the deposit entitled the deceased to enter into possession in his own right. Instead, the deceased’s entry on to the land was on the basis of a gratuitous licence created independent of his agreement to purchase from the Chans.

Thus, time could not run in his favour for the purpose of prescriptive rights until the license was terminated by the Chans, or the purchase price was paid in full.

Meanwhile, the Court also analysed the jurisprudence in Guyana as to the status of a purchaser put into possession of land by the landowner/vendor, pending the full payment of the purchase price.

In the Court’s view, where a purchaser paid the full purchase price and entered into possession pursuant to an agreement for sale, he entered into possession as of right, and time began to run in his favour on his entry.

Where, however, he entered into possession under an agreement for sale, but had not paid the full purchase price, the question of whether that purchaser’s possession was as of right was a matter of construction of the agreement for sale, having regard to the circumstances of each case.

WITHIN HIS RIGHTS As to whether Kowsal acquired prescriptive title in his own right, the Court accepted his evidence and found that he had satisfied the requirements of Section 3 of the Act. He had been in sole and undisturbed possession of the land since June 1, 1991 when the gratuitous licence granted by the Chans terminated upon the death of his father.

The Court’s finding on this issue was further supported by Deonarine’s evidence that he was never in possession of the land, as well as his failure to commence proceedings for the recovery of land within twelve years after Kowsal entered into possession.

The Court noted that when Kowsal commenced this matter on August 27, 2002, he had not yet been in possession for twelve years. But when he filed his Statement of Claim on October 29, 2003, he had acquired the statutory 12-year period, and the title of any paper owner had been extinguished.

The Court also found that neither Deonarine’s counterclaim, filed on November 13, 2003, nor the passing of transport from the Chans to Deonarine could stop time running in favour of Kowsal, or from overriding the rights that he had acquired.

Additionally, the Court did not agree that Kowsal’s non-compliance with the Rules was

fatal to his claim. Instead, the Court held that Kowsal could file a petition for a declaration of title pursuant to Section 4(1) of the Act, and Rule 3 of the Rules.

As such, the appeal was allowed, and the CCJ ordered and declared that Kowsal had been in sole and undisturbed possession of the land since June 1, 1991, and that any title, right or interest of Deonarine had been extinguished pursuant to the Act. Kowsal was represented by attorneys Messrs C.V Satram, R. Satram, Mahendra Satram and Visal Satram, while his brother and the Chans (the respondents) were represented by Messrs Anil Nandlall and Manoj Narayan.

The case was heard before Justices Adrian Saunders, David Hayton, Winston Anderson, Maureen Rajnauth-Lee and Denys Barrow. The judgment was delivered by Justice Rajnauth-Lee.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

CCJ frees Lusignan Massacre duo

THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on Friday freed Lusignan murder accused James Hyles and Mark Williams

despite substantial procedural errors at trial.

The duo was acquitted in 2013, but the

Director of Public Prosecutions appealed the acquittals under the newly amended Court of Appeal Act, on the basis that there were material irregularities in the trial.

The Court of Appeal agreed, and allowed the appeal, overturned the verdicts of not guilty and sent the matter back to the High Court for a retrial.

On January 6, 2008, gunmen went from house to house in the East Coast Demerara village of Lusignan with high-powered rifles and killed 11 persons, five of whom were children, as they slept in their homes.

Hyles and Williams were indicted on 11 counts of murder.

At trial, the judge allowed a request by Hyles’s attorney to question jurors before they were sworn in, due to the widespread pre-trial publicity of the case. The trial judge as well as State and defence counsel actively participated in this exercise.

The main prosecution witnesses were two members of the gang allegedly responsible for the massacre, one of whom was charged in connection with the massacre.

However, the charges against him were withdrawn a mere two weeks before the trial began. Hyles and William both denied involvement in the killings.

The jury rendered its verdict on August 2, 2013, and both men were found not guilty on all counts. On appeal to the CCJ, the appellants urged the Court to allow the appeal on the basis that the DPP’s new power to appeal an acquittal breached their constitutional right to the protection of law.

In their view, the new law offended the principle against double jeopardy, which prevents an accused person from being tried again on the same or similar charges, and on the same facts. However, the CCJ rejected this argument and reminded the appellants that the wording of the Constitution contemplated the possibility of such

an appeal, and that in principle, the rule against double jeopardy only protected acquittals which were affirmed by the appellate courts.

The court held that the appellants’ acquittals did not fall into that category.

Before considering the specific procedural issues, the Court acknowledged that the requirement that the acquittal had to be the result of a procedural error(s) or flaw(s) of the trial judge, was a steep hill for an appellate court to climb.

As such, the CCJ constructed a test specifically for application in prosecution appeals against acquittals. The Court held that the prosecution must satisfy the Court that “given, on the one hand, the nature and weight on the evidence and, on the other hand, the seriousness of the judicial error(s) or procedural flaw(s) it can with a substantial degree of certainty be inferred that had the error(s) or flaw(s) not occurred, the trial would not have resulted in the acquittal of the accused”.

While the Court did not agree fully with the findings of the court below, it found that there were some material irregularities, including the way in which the questioning of the jurors was conducted and the failure of the trial judge to investigate an allegation of improper communication between a juror and man alleged to be Hyles’ father.

However, on application of the test, the Court held that it could not with the required degree of certainty infer that the acquittals were the result of the errors and that it was possible that the jury simply did not believe, beyond reasonable doubt, the evidence presented by the state.

The CCJ, based on the aforementioned, allowed the appeal, set aside the decision of the Court of Appeal of Guyana, and restored the jury’s verdict of acquittal of the appellants.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

Ramjattan favours investing in communication equipment – says gov’t may very well chip in to help combat piracy at sea

By Lisa Hamilton

MINISTER of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan says fisherfolk owe it to themselves to ensure they are safe at sea.

And they can best do so by purchasing communication devices for swift onshore contact with law enforcement officials, he told the media at an Alliance For Change (AFC) press conference on Friday at the party’s Kitty headquarters.

Noting that it was not the first time he was making such a suggestion, Minister Ramjattan said he had pleaded before with fisherfolk in Rosignol and Number 66 and 43 Villages to equip their boats with communication devices such as transponders

and radio sets, but it all fell on deaf ears.

In response to a comment that they may not be able to so readily as such equipment can sost as much as G$100,000, Minister Ramjattan said: “Have you seen the houses of some of these fishermen? Have you ever noticed how much cars they have and vans they have? I don’t believe that at all. They have the monies, and if you can’t spend G$100,000 to affix some mechanism on your boat so that it can secure you, well c’mon...”

He would later come around, saying that perhaps the government might very well have to step in and render some assistance by way of providing loans for the purchas-

ing of the devices.

“I now feel that what we’ll have to do is probably get some monies for this, so that we can loan to them and they can pay back by installments, because we have to modernise our fleets,” he said.

“But with the old and ancient attitudes of some of these fishermen, we’re not going to get there unless Government stumps up, I suppose,” he added.

AFC Executive Member and Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes, who was at the ‘presser’, seized the opportunity to speak on the recent “pirate attack” on some 20 Guyanese fishermen in Surinamese waters which rendered several either dead, missing, or injured.

On behalf of the party, Hughes condemned the attack, extended her condolences to the families of the deceased, and wished for the speedy recovery of those who were injured during the “harrowing ordeal”.

Said she: “The AFC condemns this abominable and inhumane attack. The party looks forward to the perpetrators being brought before the courts and facing the full extent of the law.”

Among other party members at the briefing were Party Leader, Mr Raphael Trotman, Vice-Chairman, Mr David Patterson and Members of Parliament Messrs Michael Carrington and Audwin Rutherford.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

Suspect confesses to previous high-seas crimes

AS the police investigation into the recent piracy attack on Guyanese fishermen in Surinamese waters continues, a 39-year-old local businessman has been charged with two armed robberies committed on two fishing vessels years ago.

He is Nakool Manohar, called “Fyah”, of Number 43 Village, Corentyne, who is also one of the persons of interest in the recent pillaging of four Guyanese-owned fishing vessels off Suriname and the concomitant slaying and or disappearance of some 20 fishermen in the commission of this dastardly act.

While being interrogated by local police, Manohar reportedly confessed to having a hand in other high-seas robberies.

He was subsequently charged, and brought Friday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, but was not required to plea to the two charges.

Particulars of the first charge allege that Monohar, while being in the company of other men and armed with guns and knives between April 1, 2015 and April 30,2015 robbed the ‘Sir Navin’, a vessel owned by one Daneshwar Reddy, of two 48HP outboard engines valued

Nakool Manohar $1.8M while in Guyana’s territorial waters on the Corentyne River.

It is further alleged that between April 1, 2016 and April 30, 2016, at the same location and while being in the company of others armed with guns and knives, Monohar stole the ‘Captain Vikash’, a vessel owned by Vikash Balkisson valued $2.3M. Manohar’s attorney, Joel Edmond, during his application for bail, explained that though his client is the owner of over 10 fishing vessels, he stays on land, while his employees go to sea.

Edmond further stressed that his client was in police custody since May 2, and the charges brought before the court are “concocted”, since the crimes for which he’s been charged occurred since 2015 and 2016.

The attorney further charged that the police have no evidence linking his client, who’s diabetic and suffers from severe back pains, to the crimes at reference.

However, Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield objected to bail being granted Monohar on the grounds that he’s a suspect in the ongoing police investigation into the recent pirate attack on four fishing vessels which resulted in the death of five fishermen and over 15 others going missing.

Prosecutor Mansfield said that the defendant was positively identified as one of the perpetrators in the robbery during a police identification parade.

The Chief Magistrate refused the businessman bail on the grounds of the seriousness attached to the charges. Monohar was remanded to prison until May 31, when his matter will be recalled at the Springlands Magistrates Court.

After his court appearance, he was then handed back over to the police as the investigation continues.

According to reports, on May 2, policemen went to Manohar’s home at Number 43 Village on the Corentyne and arrested him after word surfaced that he is the brother of “Sinbad”, who resides in Suriname and is being hunted by law enforcement there as investigations indicate that the deadly April 27, 2018 attack as being a “revenge act”. “Sinbad” is said to be the leader of the group of pirates who carried out the recent attack.

According to sources in Suriname, another sibling of theirs was murdered at his home in Suriname back in March, and the man alleged that the act was committed by fishermen. According to reports, he vowed to take revenge and attack fishermen.

Since then, there has been another pirate attack in an area in neighbouring Suriname called Matapica Creek, which saw the captain of the fishing vessel being fatally shot.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

One Mile Primary returns as Spelling Bee champion

FOR the second straight year, One Primary School has carted off the championship hardware when the Linden Fund USA once again hosted its annual Spelling Bee Competition for primary school children in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) as part of Linden Town Week celebrations.

The decade-old event, which comes under the aegis of the non-profit organisation operating out of the USA, saw eight primary schools across the mining town participate in the contest this year at the Linden Concert Hall and School (LICHAS)’s auditorium, with the officiating being done by members of the Regional Education Department.

Once again this year, Ansa McAl, which has partnered with the Linden Fund over the years as main sponsors, has donated the top three trophies and replicas, along with samples of its beverages to be enjoyed by the participants.

Among the top officials in attendance were

Regional Chairman Renis Morian and Linden Mayor Ms. Waneka Arrindell.

It was a feisty competition among the competing schools, which saw Zaria Jacobis of One Mile Primary copping first place from Wismar Hill Primary’s Kennard Seenauth, who placed second, while Oletta Rose of St. Aidan’s Primary came in third.

The three winners were each rewarded with a trophy and tablet, while the other contestants received replicas for their effort and participation. One Mile Primary’s Somira Dainty, who placed fourth, was presented a scientific calculator by the Regional Chairman.

In a release, LFU ViceChair Keith Semple said the championship owes its success to “the strong collaboration of the Regional Education Office, especially its liaison officer, Ms. Kean Adams.”

He also thanked LFU Office Manager, Ms Cheryl Waithe, who coordinates the competition in conjunction with the Regional 10 education officials and engages with the individ-

WINNERS ROW: Linden Fund USA members with, from left: This year’s Spelling Bee champions Zaria Jacobis of One Mile Primary; Kennard Seenauth of Wismar Hill Primary; and Oletta Rose of St. Aidan’s Primary ual primary schools and the donor and partner, Ansa McAl. Among LFU members who came home from the US for the competitions were Mr Keith Semple, Mr George Parris, Ms Chairmaine Critchlow, Mr Gordon Alleyne and

Mr Desmond Bacchus.

And among local supporters in attendance were members of For

The Children Sake Foundation, which is the primary partner of the LFU on a number

of ongoing community projects, and the Learning Channel, which covered the event.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May12, 2018

Cabinet approves all out-of-court settlements …Gov’t ties Nandlall’s tardiness to big judgements

CABINET had agreed to all out-of-court settlements regarding judgements against the state, State Minister Joseph Harmon has said.

Harmon also said that almost all of the matters where judgements were given against the State were as a result of the inept leadership of former Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall that caused the cases to collapse.

Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday, Harmon lambasted Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo for saying that the government lost billions from the treasury through out of court settlement that could have been won.

“By now they would have settled cases that could potentially lead to about $85 billion of liabilities to the treasury. Already we are paying all of that,” Jagdeo told a press conference on Thursday. Jagdeo said that the several out of court settlements were in fact being used as a conduit to pay kickbacks.

However, Harmon said the issues of settlements are as a result of the previous administration inept level

of defence in many of the matters which caused the courts to made determinations against the State. “All of these matters were so badly handled that even at the level of appeal it could not be reversed, the matters which we settled were matters decided by the court, and we felt that it was important to establish a regime of the rule of law which says that we respect the judgments of courts,” Harmon said.

He explained that the settlements were addressed at the level of Cabinet and approval was given for Attorney General, Basil Williams to proceed with the proposals he recommended. “Mr. Jagdeo can say whatever he wants the root cause of these problems started in the administration of the PPP (People’s Progressive Party).

Mr. Nandlall, as the then AG, failed miserably to prosecute these matters on behalf of the State, it all falls back into his lap,” Harmon added.

The Minister of State said at the appropriate time he (Williams) will issue a full statement on the matters, “and we would recognise the deep hole into which the PPP has put us in this country.”

Adding that the government is doing its best to keep the country in order, Harmon said, but on a daily basis “you are faced with some ignorance or some nonsense done by the previous administration that you have to deal with now.” Further, he said most of the concessions the APNU government is faced with were given out contractually under the PPP government. “Hundreds of them, we have to literally start to reel back in.”

Only recently, the Attorney General Chambers made a public appeal to all attorneys who are currently working on or have been assigned cases through the Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers prior to May 2015, to submit in writing a list of the said cases to the Chambers before May 7.

In the notice published in the Guyana Chronicle, the AG’s Chambers had said those (attorneys) not authorised by the current AG, to represent the Chambers in outstanding matters are required to “immediately notify the Chambers of the said matters.

“You are asked to give a written report to the Honour-

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

able Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senior Counsel Basil Williams, MP, regarding the status of each case for which you have conduct,” the notice stated.

Williams said that over the past few months, in many of the cases inherited from the PPP administration, no documentation can be sourced at his office. He added that oftentimes cases had been outsourced, but no reports were filed at the AG’s Chambers, an act he described as in contravention

of norms.

In the November 2017 Dipcon Engineering Limited case against the government, where the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) dismissed an appeal by the AG of Guyana in the $446M contractual dispute, Williams told reporters that the case is one of several that were inherited from the PPP. He stressed that no notice was given to the APNU+AFC coalition government until the period allotted under the rules of the Court of Appeal to appeal, had expired. “Further to that, there was no evidence of the file at the AG’s Chambers – it is a new AG and it wasn’t until February at the budget that I was informed by the leader of the opposition about the case.”

Back then, the AG had indicated that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) would be asked to probe cases where attorneys recruited to act on behalf of the state, in turn represent the intended opponent.

Similarly, last month’s ruling by the High Court to have government pay over $1.7B in damages to Toolsie Persaud Limited (TPL), after losing its challenge to that company’s ownership of land at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara (ECD), resulted in

a similar claim by the AG. “The Toolsie Persaud case is just like the Dipcon case. My chambers had no knowledge of the case, there is no file in the chambers …we are surprised that we are represented by the old regime under Mr Nandlall.” The State was represented by Ashton Chase. “We are investigating it now and of course we will appeal it,” he assured, noting that his office had requested a list of cases outstanding from the chief justice and the Court of Appeal as well as certain practitioners.

Williams said it is unusual for the State to outsource a case and not have any record of same. He told the Guyana Chronicle that while he had received responses from the chief justice, the Court of Appeal and the practitioners asked, none made mention of the case. “Yes, but no case like that. We weren’t told they had the case…we have to examine now, look at it and read the records. If you had a case since 2008, weren’t you supposed to bring in the case?” Williams said too that the crime chief was asked to probe cases where attorneys recruited to act on behalf of the state, in turn represent the intended opponent.

Harmon: Guyana heightens counter-piracy activities

Prithima Kissoon loses challenge to dismissal

CABINET has agreed to heighten counter piracy activities in order to assure Guyanese fisher folks of the government’s commitment to them plying their trade.

This is according to Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who was speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday.

Underscoring that government was concerned with the fishermen’s livelihood, safety and security, Harmon said there would be collaboration between the security forces of Guyana and Suriname until the perpetrators of the massacre are brought to justice before the courts.

He said that the Surinamese government had agreed to assist the families of the deceased by resuming the search for the missing fishermen, and providing moral, psychological and financial support in burial.

The Minister of State said that the day-to-day operations by the Surinamese police will be shared with Guyana’s security officials, on what had been done subsequent to the pirate attack.

Two weeks after a deadly pirate rampage on Suriname waters that left 12 Guyanese fishermen missing and five dead, authorities in both coun-

Chief Justice, Roxanne George-Wiltshire has dismissed an application by Former Deputy Solicitor General, Prithima Kissoon on allegations that she was wrongfully dismissed and also awarded cost amounting to $200,000 to the AG Chambers.

In a release the AG Chambers said that on the 10th November, 2017 Kissoon had filed an application in the High Court seeking orders of Certiorari directed at the Public Service Commission and/ or Delma Nedd, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Legal Affairs. By the action Ms. Kissoon alleged that the Public Service Commission’s decision to dismiss her from the Public Service for leaving the jurisdiction without permission was excessive, without merit, unlawful, ultra vires, unconstitutional and wholly in excess of its jurisdiction.

She further contended that she was not given a fair hearing or the right to legal representation by the Commission and that the Public Service Commission failed to serve on her in writing the charge together with the particulars of the charge. However, the chambers said during the pendency of those proceedings Ms. Kissoon on the 7th March, 2018 through her Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes

tries believe that they have a clearer idea of what transpired.

Fifteen persons remain in police custody in Suriname, among them are ‘Crack Head’ and ‘Dick’ and a close family member of Somnath Manohar, who was killed at the end of March following the death of a fisherman.

The drive-by shooting of Manohar was said to be an ongoing battle for control of the fishing grounds by mainly Guyanese fishermen who operate in Suriname.

Following the death of Manohar, it was believed that a revenge plan was hatched by the fishermen who worked with him, which resulted in the massacre and some fishermen missing.

The missing fishermen were said to be living in both Guyana and Suriname.

On Monday, the Guyana team met with Suriname’s ministers of justice, defense and agriculture.

Also, the team communicated with Police Commissioner Anthony Chin and was briefed.

It was made clear that the current situation of fishing will see more regulated with checkpoints established and more demands for identification of fishermen.

…High Court awarded cost to AG Chambers

Former Deputy Solicitor General, Prithima Kissoon

instituted proceedings touching and concerning the same issues and subject matter before the Public Service Appellate Tribunal (of which her uncle Nandram Kissoon) is the uncle seeking concurrent and identical reliefs.

The AG release said that in response to Ms. Kissoon’s application Ms. Kim Kyte, Solicitor General and Ms. Oneka-Archer-Caulder, Principal Legal Adviser on the 28th March, 2018 filed a Notice of Application in which it alleged that Ms. Kissoon, as the former Deputy Solicitor General came under the ambit and jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission and Rules therein provided a statutory remedy for the review of administrative actions within the Public service. The chambers contended

that Miss. Kissoon should have availed and exhausted all and any available statutory remedies before seeking judicial review of this Honourable Court and more so that that the instituting of concurrent proceedings amounted to a flagrant abuse of the processes of the Court and the administration of justice. Further, it was noted by counsel for the Attorney General Chambers that at no time did Ms. Kissoon disclosed to the Court the fact that she had since filed concurrent proceedings for identical reliefs before the Appellate Tribunal.

The matter came up for hearing on Friday before Chief Justice George-Wiltshire who ruled that the filing of identical proceedings for identical reliefs before two separate bodies amounted to an abuse of the process of the Court and further, that since counsel for the applicant Nigel Hughes had failed to file an Affidavit of Defence in response to the Attorney General’s claims he is taken too have conceded to the claims therein. The Attorney General’s Chambers was represented by Ms. Oneka-Archer-Caulder, Principal Legal Adviser and Ms. Kezia Williams appeared for and on behalf of Mr. Nigel Hughes for Ms. Kissoon.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

PM’s wife donates to Berbice schools

DELIVERING on a promise to Region Six, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, wife of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, yesterday visited two schools in the Berbice region.

Mrs. Nagamootoo’s first stop was at the Lower Corentyne Secondary School in Rose Hall, where she donated a number of items to the school’s Home Economics Department, along with sports gears.

In brief remarks to students, Mrs. Nagamootoo reminded of the importance of education and wished the students much success in their studies.

She also encouraged them to heed the advice of their teachers and parents.

“First of all, you have to say to yourself that I am very important and I want to be the very best person that I can be in my society and country and when you set your goal, you have to work to achieve that goal.

Fire leaves Mon Repos family homeless A FAMILY of three is now homeless after a fire of unknown origin destroyed their house at Agriculture Road, Mon Repos on Friday.

One of the occupants of the East Boast Demerara home, Paulie (only name given), who lived there with two of her five daughters,

the blaze.

And though firemen acted quickly, they were unable to save the wooden house from being destroyed by the raging fire.

Said one neighbour, “We smell smoke and an alarm was raised; we just picked up buckets and start dip water and throw it in an effort to

The Mon Repos fire in all its glory on Friday (NCN photo) was reportedly in the hospital undergoing surgery at the time of the fire.

According to her neighbours, Paulie left home since Thursday night to go to the hospital, and they believe that no one has been home since.

The neighbours said the fire started at around 08:05h and quickly spread throughout the house. Even some of the nearby houses were scorched slightly by

contain the fire.”

An elderly man, Soanadath Sanasi, who lives next to the house that was on fire, was burnt after the blaze spread to a part of his house.

He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has since launched an investigation to ascertain the origin of the fire.

All that was left when the firemen were done

Each of us has a purpose and is here to perform a special duty and in order to perform well we have to be intellectual and morally prepared,” she said.

Over at Fyrish Primary School, Mrs. Nagamootoo interacted with the students, while distributing teaching aids, sport gear and a water dispenser.

Management of both schools expressed gratitude to Mrs. Nagamootoo for her timely donation and visit. (DPI)

Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, students and teachers along with items donated

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

(BBC) - Juventus’ Gianluigi Buffon has been charged by Uefa over comments about referee Michael Oliver after their Champions League defeat

by Real Madrid.

Buffon was sent off for dissent after Oliver awarded Real a late penalty, which they scored to go through.

Following the quarter-final second leg on 11 April, Italian Buffon said the official had “a bag of rubbish” rather than “a heart” and should “sit in the stands” and “eat crisps”.

Real progressed 4-3 on aggregate.

Uefa says the 40-yearold Italy goalkeeper has been charged with breach-

Buffon charged over comments about Referee

ing its “general principles of conduct” after his outburst against the English referee.

European football’s governing body, which also charged Buffon for the red card, said in a statement the case will be dealt with on 31 May. Referee Oliver and wife Lucy were offered police support after both were targeted on social media following the incident, with police also investigating threatening text messages.

Immediately after the game, Juventus captain Buffon said: “It was a tenth of a penalty.

“I know the referee saw what he saw, but it was

certainly a dubious incident. Not clear-cut. And a dubious incident at the 93rd minute when we had a clear penalty denied in the first leg, you cannot award that at this point.

“The team gave its all, but a human being cannot destroy dreams like that at the end of an extraordinary comeback on a dubious situation.

“Clearly you cannot have a heart in your chest, but a bag of rubbish. On top of that, if you don’t have the character to walk on a pitch like this in a stadium like this, you can sit in the stands with your wife, your kids, having your drink and eating crisps. “ Yo u c a n n o t r u i n

the dreams of a team. I could’ve told the referee anything at that moment, but he had to understand the degree of the disaster he was creating.

“If you can’t handle the pressure and have the courage to make a decision, then you should just sit in the stands and eat your crisps.”

Several days later, Buffon defended his comments on Italian TV: “The content remains and I stand by all of it. I’d say them all again - maybe with a different type of language.

“You find a way to speak, right or wrong, that at times can seem excessive - but this is me, I am Gigi Buffon.”

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Essequibo Islands hold nerve to beat Parika Salem by 4 wickets ESSEQUIBO Islands Secondary School held their nerves to clinch a four-wicket win over Parika Salem, when play in the Guyana Cricket Board/Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sport Commission/National Secondary School Cricket League continued.

Played at the Tuschen ground on the East Bank of

Essequibo, hosts Parika Salem opted to take first strike but were made to work hard for their runs, due to the excellent bowling and fielding by the Essequibo Islands players.

In the end, Parika Salem crumbled to 76 all out from 22 of their allotted 30 overs. Wazim Mohamed 19 and Travis Christian 19 were the main contributors.

Bowling for Essequibo

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday May 12, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Dwayne Bravo (CSK) (2) Sam Billings (CSK) Today’s Quiz: (1) Against which team MI won their first game in

this season’s IPL? (2) Against which team SH suffered their first defeat

in this season’s IPL? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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Ryan Atkinson

Islands, left-arm spinner Ryan Atkinson grabbed 5-12, while Henry Gladwane Jr took 3-11.

In reply, the touring team, Essequibo Islands labored to achieve the meagre target, reaching 79-6, as their calm and watchful batting approach was slightly affected by the loss of key wickets at vital periods.

Ryan Atkinson was the

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highest run-scorer for his team with 14. Bowling for Parika Salem, Shivraj Mohabir took 2-16, while there was one wicket each for Wazim Mohamed, Travis Christian, and Orlando Adulphus.

Essequibo Islands will now face the winners of the Essequibo Coast contest in the Essequibo County District final, on Friday, May 18.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

33 Days to go …

SPAIN

A

S THE 2018 FIFA World Cup date get closer expectations continue to build. 32 nations will be playing. In the first stage; the teams have been divided into 8 groups, 4 teams into each group.

CIES Football Observatory has revealed the most likely World Cup winners. The conclusion is derived from an exclusive Power Index.

The index combines the average percentage of the matches played at domestic league level since July 2017 by the 23 most fielded players per team in the World Cup qualifying campaign, with the average sporting level of employer clubs. Spain top the list ahead of Brazil.

Spain are tipped to be in the best position to win the FIFA World Cup 2018 title.

The 23 Spanish footballers, most fielded in the qualification stage, have on an average played 81.1% of domestic league matches in the current season. This happens to be the highest percentage among all the measured teams, who have made it to the FIFA World Cup Finals 2018. The average sporting level of the clubs employing Spanish players is also the greatest overall at 1.37.

These analytics place Spain in a strong position with a perfect 100 Power Index to repeat their FIFA 2010 World Cup title triumph.

Brazil, France, and Germany are the other three teams to have an 80 plus Power Index. Panama are placed at the bottom of the Power Index chart with a mere 12 points. Iran and Saudi Arabia too have Power Index scores of less than 25.

The reports suggest that teams with less than 25 Power Index points will struggle to reach the pre-quarter-finals stage.

The Russia FIFA World Cup Finals are scheduled to start on June 14 with hosts Russia taking on Saudi Arabia in Mexico.

Here, we look at top teams who will go into the tournament as favourites.

GERMANY

The current world champions, Germany, won the 2014 FIFA World Cup and will be chasing history as they look to be the first team in 56 years to win back-to-back World Cup tournaments.

Strength: The ability to win games and play as a team. The German national team have the nickname Die National Mannschaft, which refers to working together to achieve a common aim and thus being responsible for each other.

World Cups Titles: 1974, 1954, 1990, 2014

BRAZIL

Brazil are undisputedly the best team in the history of the World Cup. They are the only nation with five titles and will be looking to add a sixth as they try to avenge their 2014 humiliation at the hands of Germany in their own backyard.

Strength: The Seleção have talented players in abundance, known for their flair. Brazil can call on a

BRAZIL

Potential teams likely to win FIFA World Cup list of players to produce moments of magic to win a game. From Neymar to Coutinho, Willian, Firmino, Marcelo and Gabriel Jesus, the team will be banking on the talented roster to bring home the trophy.

World Cups Titles: 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002

ARGENTINA

The 2014 FIFA World Cup finalists will be looking for redemption in Russia as they aim to go one better and win the cup that has eluded them and one particular player, Lionel Messi.

To be considered the best, you must have won a World Cup. Argentina will want to write their names in the history books and win their first World Cup since 1986.

World Cups Titles: 1978, 1986

SPAIN

Spain, the 2010 FIFA World Cup champions who made history in South Africa, are going through renaissance as they usher new generation of Spanish technical maestros. They will be hoping their expansive brand of football can land them a second World Cup title.

Strength: Tiki-taka football is a style of play that involves short passes and starving the opposition of possession, meaning they can dictate the game.

BELGIUM

Belgium have been dark horses since the 2014 World Cup, but disappointing results 2014 and the 2016 Euros, as well as the lack of a top-quality manager, have cost the side dearly.

Belgium may have failed to live up to their potential in those competitions, but may turn things around at the 2018 World Cup. Strength: A talented starting 11 with top-quality bench make Belgium a potential contender in Russia.

FRANCE

Le Bleu will be coming to this year’s tournament off the back of a successful 2016 Euro campaign, even though they lost in the final against Portugal. The team’s depth is unreal, with at least three top quality players in each position. Can Le Bleu win the World Cup exactly 20 years after France last won it? Only time will tell.

World Cup Title: 1998

GERMANY

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

Hamilton on top with Red bulls in chase (Reuters) - Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton returned to the top of the timesheets in the second Spanish Grand Prix practice yesterday, with the charging Red Bulls of Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen hot on his heels.

The Briton, who leads the championship by four points from Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel after four long-haul races, lapped the Circuit de Catalunya in one minute 18.259 seconds on the soft tyres.

Australian Ricciardo’s car had some eye-catching aerodynamic upgrades for the start of the European season and ended 0.133 seconds slower after crashing in the morning, while Verstappen was third.

The two Red Bulls collided in Azerbaijan two weekends ago and are under close scrutiny by team bosses who could intervene if their rivalry risks overheating again in tomorrow’s race.

Vettel, who will be chasing his fourth successive pole

position today, was fourth and Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri Bottas fifth.

Vettel’s team mate Kimi Raikkonen suffered a power unit problem.

Bottas set the day’s overall fastest lap in the opening session with a time of 1:18.148 seconds on the soft tyres, a remarkable 0.849 faster than Hamilton who won from pole in Spain last year.

Hamilton has not felt fully comfortable with his car and knows his championship

Grosjean took a spin in both practice sessions - at the same corner.

advantage owes a lot to luck.

“The day was pretty good, but it was a tricky one because it was so windy out there,” said the Briton, who was gifted a win in Baku two weeks ago when Bottas had a puncture in the closing laps while leading.

“Every driver was strug-

Rain foils Ireland Test debut

gling with the changing direction of the wind. You’re constantly arriving at each corner and the wind direction is never the same, so we saw lots of drivers going off.

“These conditions make it very difficult to define where the set-up needs to go.”

The virtual safety car

was deployed in the morning when Ricciardo’s car ran across the gravel and into the barriers.

“Thankfully, the damage is pretty light,” team principal Christian Horner told Sky Sports television.

“It was the old front wing so he’s a lucky boy.”

Archer’s Royals stun Bravo’s Super Kings

Barbadian fast bowler Jofra Archer.

Not an easy day for using umbrellas, Ireland v Pakistan, Only Test, Malahide, 1st day, May 11, 2018.

(ESPNCrincinfo) - The first day in Test cricket for Ireland’s men fell foul of some thoroughly Irish weather, as play at Malahide was abandoned without a single ball being bowled.

After several inspections, umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth eventually called things off shortly after 15:00hrs: Ireland thus achieved the dubious distinction of becoming the first team to have the opening day of their maiden Test washed out.

The anticipation in north

Dublin quickly gave way to the realities of the game in this part of the world in May, with rain throughout the day meaning the covers barely had a chance to be removed.

A poor forecast was fully realised - hail fell at one point during the afternoon - but the outlook is better from day two onwards.

It is understood that Cricket Ireland have spent Euro 1M to stage the country’s first men’s Test. Ticket-holders were due to receive a 100% refund - around 5 000 of the 6 300 capacity had

been pre-sold - and, alongside the hit to food and drink sales, the washout is likely to come at a significant financial cost for Ireland, even accounting for insurance payouts.

The miserable conditions did not allow time for a toss, with those in the ground retreating to covered marquees for an early opportunity to sample the Guinness while the players were left to kick their heels, some venturing out to speak to the fans.

The abandonment meant Pakistan have now lost three

full days out of nine to bad weather since arriving in England for the start of their tour (play was only possible on two days of their warm-up match in Canterbury).

As puddles formed on the outfield, it became clear that Ireland’s big moment would be delayed and, after the issues with drainage that caused the abandonment of an ODI against West Indies last summer, they will be praying the rain does not upstage them any further over the coming days.

CMC – Barbadian speedster Jofra Archer produced a two-wicket haul to help Rajasthan Royals stun Dwayne Bravo’s high-flying Chennai Super Kings by four wickets with a ball to spare, in the Indian Premier League here Friday.

Opting to bat first at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, CSK chalked up a decent 176 for four off their 20 overs, with Suresh Raina top-scoring with 52, Australian Shane Watson getting 39 and captain MS Dhoni, 33 not out.

Archer struck as early as the third over, when he bowled Ambati Rayudu for 12, as the batsman dragged on a wide ball.

Raina then put on 86 for the second wicket with Watson who struck a brace of fours and sixes before becoming Archer’s second wicket, caught behind attempting to pull a quick in-swinging delivery.

Dhoni and Englishman Sam Billings (27) added 55 for the fourth wicket to bolster the innings, as the right-arm Archer finished with two for 42 from his

four overs.

The Sussex paceman now has 11 wickets from six matches.

In reply, wicketkeeper Jos Buttler struck an unbeaten 95 at the top of the order to guide Royals over the line. He put on 48 for the first wicket with fellow England star Ben Stokes (11) and a further 46 with Sanju Samson (21) for the third wicket.

Royals required 12 from the final over sent down by West Indies medium pacer Dwayne Bravo, and the equation remained close when only four runs came from the first three deliveries.

But with eight runs needed from the last three balls, Buttler smashed Bravo’s fourth delivery over mid-wicket for six to put the result to rest.

Bravo finished with one for 31 from three overs and five balls.

The victory was the Royals’ fifth of the season and it left them sixth on 10 points while CSK remained second on 14 points.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

TO THE

Examination of Coaching Methods Needed AS of May 2018 the West Indies cricket team was in ninth position in the ICC Test rankings, just ahead of Zimbabwe; and in the ODI rankings the team nudged out Afghanistan for the ninth place. That was a bit of a surprise because Afghanistan defeated West Indies in their last three encounters.

Outdated structures, adversarial and self-defeating environments, as well as increasingly dysfunctional and autocratic leadership within the organisation contributed greatly to the team’s downfall. So too have ineffective performance-enhancing programmes, poorly designed development agendas and major changes in the players’ and the board’s values, attitudes, priorities and responsibilities.

Today, a private business performing at the same level as the current West Indies team would abruptly dismiss its chairman/president and its board of directors in order to survive and change its fortune.

Over the years, numerous head coaches and specialist coaches have tried but failed to arrest and reverse the West Indies’ failure spiral. Their teams were not the most talented but even so, they played well below their potential. The good news is that the team’s performance can be improved with just a few intelligent and fundamental changes.

Our coaches must now undergo a thorough and honest examination of themselves and their teaching methods, find out why their players are not learning and performing better, stop blaming the players and making excuses for them, and take full responsibility for the team’s performance.

When West Indies dominated world cricket in the Worrell/Lloyd eras, professional coaches were not around. There was no formal or structured coaching and yet, the teams played excep-

tionally well. How did the captains and players manage to get so much out of each other? A few thoughts on coaching from Sir Garfield Sobers, Jacques Kallis and Richie Benaud, three of the world’s greatest players, might give us a hint.

A few years ago, I asked Kallis what he would change if he had a free hand in coaching. He said: “I would decrease the players’ dependence on the coach and focus them on self-reliance, self-awareness and self-responsibility. In some ways coaching today is like a dictatorship. By that I mean that players are too dependent on their coaches and that coaches don’t encourage them to stand on their own feet and think for themselves.

“When you are batting in the middle, the coach can’t help you and if you can’t think for yourself, make proper decisions and deal with the different situations you are going to face you won’t do well. Today when something goes wrong, one of the first things a player does is to go to the coach to get his opinion about what went wrong and what he has to do to correct it, instead of trying to figure it out for himself.

“The coach can be helpful in these cases but the player must take responsibility for finding the solutions to his problems.”

Sir Garfield highlighted important facets of coaching like mastering the basic skills, identifying and dealing with different game situations, believing in self, thinking simply and clearly, and learning to improve and maintain concentration, especially in periods of crisis.

He stressed: “If I had a free hand in coaching I would first spend most of my time teaching the basics of the game. Thereafter, I would spend an equal amount of time teaching players how to identify and deal with the many different situations they are likely

to face in the game. They would then know how to tailor their skills and strategies to meet those demands.

They would know what to do, how to do it and when to do it.”

Sir Garfield added, “The proper use of the mind is the one thing that separates champions from the merely good players. It helps them to cope with difficult situations. No matter how good a player you think you are, you won’t make it to the top unless you develop your mind.

“The top players know how to think, how to concentrate and what to do in tough situations. When you are faced with a tough situation you must believe in yourself and trust your skills. If you doubt yourself and your ability you will be severely handicapped. You must talk to yourself sensibly, approach the situation calmly and try to apply the appropriate skills to deal with the problem areas. If you do this you are likely to get the best out of yourself.”

Richie Benaud, Australia’s cricket captain during the Worrell era emphasised the importance of learning to cope with pressure and how to capitalise on it. He once said to me, “There is never any shortage of talented sportsmen either in this age or past eras, some have even been potentially great but have never quite managed to take that little last step. It is in fact a giant stride! That advance is the difference between the good and the great player. The successful sportsman is the one who knows how best to handle the pressures of the day and the situations about to land upon him, the one who is able to gauge when the pressures are being applied to him and when they must be applied to others.”

“I don’t know how much attention the modern-day coach is devoting to these important performance-enhancing and match-winning

factors. Ignoring them or allowing them to fall into the basket of forgotten factors will not just undermine the principles of teaching, learning and achieving peak performance but will also guarantee substandard performance.

Physical technique is extremely important but it should be the servant not the master. Many coaches feel that the physical skills are the ultimate component of performance and look at faults and mistakes through that lens. They will do well to remember an old African saying: “When a man falls, don’t look at where he falls, look at where he slips.” So when looking at technical faults they should find out what went wrong just before the fault occurred. In most cases the trigger will be found in the mind, not the body.

Our coaches must now identify the best ways to teach and learn good techniques. They might be surprised to discover how much technique can be learned without technical instructions. There is great value in these instructions so long as they don’t interfere with the players’ natural learning style. This is a mistake that coaches are repeatedly making with West Indian players.

“Imagine how difficult it would be for a baby if he understood language before he learned to walk. His parents would confuse him with their instructions, interfere with his natural learning process, diminish his confidence and make walking a more difficult task.

Finally, our coaches should constantly remind themselves of this tale. A centipede was happy and quiet until a toad in fun asked, “Pray, which leg comes after which?” This set his mind in such a pitch he lay distracted in the ditch thinking how to run.

Rudi V. Webster

Action heating up in Woodpecker Junior Nationals DAY 3 of the Junior National Squash Tournament, sponsored by Woodpecker Products on Thursday saw play heating in the Girls Under-11 competition.

In the match-up of Leshante Berkley and Rylee Rodrigues, Leshaunte came out storming for an 11-0 win.

Rodrigues was not about to go down without a fight and she battled through the second game and pushed Berkley all the way but wasn’t able to take this one, as Berkley managed a 12-10 win.

Rylee, not giving up, took the following two games 11-7, 11-7 and the last game went to the wire in a 12-10 victory for Berkley to take the match.

A similar scenario played out for Safira Summer and Malia Maikoo when each girl showed determination and grit to fight five games, with Summer triumphant in a close matchup ending in 11-13, 11-4, 8-11, 12-10, 11-8.

In a thrilling Under-13 Boys’ bout, James Mekdeci and Nicholas Verwey had the spectators’ full attention as they traded shot for shot in a four-game match. Both boys worked hard and used the court well.

Verwey dominated the first game to an 11-6 win. Showing signs of fatigue, Mekdeci still dug deep in an effort to push ahead and he secured a successful second game 11-4, but was unable to catch Verwey, who regrouped to edge ahead in the third 11-8 and hold on in the fourth 11-9.

The Girls’ Under-15 match between Abosaide Cadogan and Madison Fernandes did not disappoint. Both girls played outstanding squash, with well thought-out rallies, excellent court movements and sound tactics.

The girls displayed a full repertoire of shots; powerful drives, low drops, trickle boasts and lobs. Cadogan retained her unbeaten record by pulling ahead in a three-game match finishing 12-10, 11-7, 12-10.

FULL LIST OF MATCHES PLAYED:

Under-11 Girls Safira Summer overcame Malia Maikoo 11-13, 11-4, 8-11, 12-10, 11-8 L Berkley prevailed over Rylee Rodrigues 11-0, 14-12, 7-11, 7-11, 12-10 Under-11 Boys Shiloh Asregado beat Grant Fernandes 11-9, 11-5, 11-0 Joshua Verwey overwhelmed Breno DaSilva 11-1, 11-6, 11-3.

Under-13 Boys Michael Alphonso blanked Lucas Persaud 11-0, 11-0, 11-0 Ethan Jonas beat Mohryan Baksh 11-8, 11-5, 11-5.

Nicholas Verwey defeated James Mekdeci 11-6, 4-11, 11-8, 11-9 Under-15 Girls Kirsten Gomes beat Aliyah Persuad 11-8, 11-3, 11-6.

Abosaide Cadogan bettered Madison Fernandes 12-10, 11-7, 12-10.

Under-15 Boys Shomari Wiltshire crushed Zachary Persaud 11-1, 111, 11-1.

Shomari Wiltshire thrashed Demetrius DeAbreu 11-1, 11-3, 11-2.

Under-17 Boys Daniel Islam ttounced Osmond Mack 11-2, 11-1, 11-4 Anthony Islam whipped Gianni Carpenter 11-6, 11-4, 11-6 Samuel Ince-Carvalhal got the better of Lucas Jonas 11-4, 11-6, 11-9.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 12, 2018

Berbice Cricket is Semple re-elected Malteenoes president on the move again PRESIDENT of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Hilbert Foster is hailing the achievements of his first three months in office and the strides that cricket in the Ancient County has made.

Calling it a mini-revolution, Foster disclosed that cricket is on the move again and praised the hard work of his fellow administrators, the support of every Berbice stakeholder, while acknowledging the outstanding contributions of corporate Guyana and overseas Guyanese.

He recalled that on his election on February 18, 2018, he stated that it would take a superman and collective effort to turn around the fortunes of Berbice Cricket and while much more needs to be done, he was satisfied with the progress made in such a short time.

He expressed delight with the support he has received from clubs, umpires, players, administrators and the general public.

Over the last three months, the Berbice Cricket Board has l a u n c h e d t h e M i k e ’s Pharmacy Under-15 Cup, Ramnaresh Sarwan Under-17 Tournament, New York Business Group Under-19, Elizabeth Styles Under-21, RHTYSC/BCB Female Cup, Mogu Mogu

Inter-Secondary School tournament, Berbice River 40-Overs Cup, four Magic Moments Internal Zone tournaments for West Berbice, New Amsterdam/ Canje, Lower Corentyne and Upper Corentyne.

BCB president Hilbert Foster

Other tournaments launched included the Brian Ramphal Double Wicket, Ramnaresh Sarwan’s Upper Corentyne 40-Overs, Raffik & Sons 100 balls for Lower Corentyne Teams, Carib Beer 20/20 First Division while sponsorship has already been acquired for a 40-Overs Countywide Second Division tournament.

Sponsorships would also be unveiled shortly for a Double Wicket Competition in Upper Corentyne, 100 balls tournament in the New Amsterdam/Can-

je and West Berbice areas, an Intermediate Berbice-wide tournament and at least three more First Division tournaments.

T h e U n d e r- 1 5 , U n der-17, Under-19, Under-21, Magic Moments 20/20 tournaments have already started but have been put on hold pending an improvement in the weather.

The Berbice Cricket Board has also invested heavily in the preparation of its Inter-county Under-19 and Female teams while it has launched an Inter-county Cap System, Player-of-the-Match Award for every Berbice game and a MVP Award Programme for every tournament.

For the first time in its history the Berbice Cricket Board also provided financial stipends to its junior national cricketers, with the Under-15 and Under-19 players receiving a combined $200 000.

The BCB also honoured former West Indies Cricketer, Joseph Solomon, and held a Conference with its junior players.

Twenty-two clubs benefited from $1M worth of gear, balls and scorebooks in a joint project of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and the BCB. It also honoured its

winning Under-15 team while the Under-19 and Female teams would be honoured shortly.

He expressed gratitude to the following sponsors and individuals: Mike’s Pharmacy, Ramnaresh Sarwan, New York Business Group, Elizabeth Styles, Sueria Manufacturing, Mohamed Raffik, New Building Society, Ansa McAl and the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club.

The RHTY&SC he stated, used over $500 000 of its fund to assist the Berbice Cricket Board until it gained access to its bank account.

The $500 000 would not be repaid as the RHTY&SC views it as a contribution to Berbice Cricket.

Special thanks are also extended to Brian Ramphal for his contribution of $1M, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh for his commitment of close to $900 000, Tony Amerally, the Management of J.R. Engineering, Food-for-thePoor, MC Samaroo and the National Sports Commission.

The Berbice Cricket Board also extends gratitude to DTV-8, LRTVS CH10, NCN, TVG, Guyana Chronicle, Stabroek News, Guyana Times, News Room and Kaieteur News for their coverage of the Board.

FORMER first division batsman, Winston Semple, was re-elected president of the Malteenoes Sports Club MSC) when the Thomas Lands Club held its Elections at the Club’s pavilion, last week.

Deborah McNichol is the first vce-president while former National Youth batsman Shawn Holder is the second vice-president.

The other members on the Executive are, Adrian Smith (secretary), Troy Lewis (treasurer), Marcus Watkins (asst secretary/treasurer), Steven Jacobs (Club captain) and Sean Devers (PRO).

Oswald Pearce and Owen John were elected as Committee members of the club which was founded 1902 by Ferdinand Archer.

Seven of the eight executives have played Division One cricket for MSC with Jacobs being a current National player.

Semple, the elder brother of West Indies ODI batsman Keith Semple, spoke about some of the plans the new executives hope to accomplish by the end of the year.

“We hope to increase our general membership and our pool of youth cricketers, especially U-13s and U-17s. We

also hope to complete our practice facility which will include concrete and turf pitches” the 49-yearold Semple informed.

The president disclosed that some sponsorship for the practice facility has already been acquired.

In the late 1980s, Malteenoes launched the first-ever Cricket Academy in the Caribbean during the August school vacation and plans are in place to revive that academy which has produced several players from as far as Berbice who went on the represent Guyana at various levels.

Semple lamented that the main problem was getting coaches for the academy since CPL is played during that period and most of the top coaches will be involved in that tournament.

Members were encouraged to attend the monthly ‘Club Night’ held on the last Friday of each month.

John Trim, Clayton Lambert, Rex Collymore, Barrington Browne, Colin Stuart and Indomattie Goordial are MSC players who have played for West Indies.

Former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop represented MSC in the 1980s while in 1987 seven players in the National U-19 came from that club.

Guyana aiming to make impact in CONCACAF Nations League GUYANA’S ‘Golden Jaguars’ are looking to make an impact in the 2017/2018 CONCACAF Nations League and are hoping that a positive showing in the competition can be instrumental in their goal to become a top-five ranked Caribbean nation by 2021.

According to Technical Director of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Ian Greenwood, Guyana sees the Nations League as the perfect stage for the country to have sustained international participation which will aid in the country’s overall development.

“For Guyana and the region, the CONCACAF Nations League is the ideal competition for development,” Greenwood told CONCACAF.com on Thursday.

“Having sustained international fixtures is the only way that we can develop as a region.

It’s been too many times where the countries are not playing enough competitive football.

For Guyana itself, it is a great platform to really establish ourselves as one of the top teams in the Caribbean.

“Having a structured format where we will be playing competitive international fixtures on a regular basis can only lead to positive things for us as a country. It is also a clear pathway for our younger players being developed in Guyana to have something to aspire to in terms of realistic opportunities to qualify for further CONCACAF tournaments,” said Greenwood who is a former academy and youth team coach with English clubs, Leeds United and Huddersfield Town.

Greenwood noted that Guyana are in a rebuilding phase at the moment with their biggest accomplishment in recent years being their progress to the CONCACAF semi-final round of the 2014 World Cup qualification.

“We are currently in a rebuilding phase. We have

young players based in Guyana and Guyanese based in the UK and North America. We have the raw materials to be a top-five team in the Caribbean and have had a lot of key players coming through our system. We feel that we can be very competitive going into

GFF’s Technical Director Ian Greenwood

these first set of games in the Nations League. We are expecting positive performances and good results along the way,” Greenwood said.

Guyana will be facing Barbados, Turks and Caicos Islands, French Guiana and Belize for the opening phase of the Nations League qualifiers. Guyana will play hosts to Barbados and Belize in September 2018 and March 2019 respectively in the first and final qualifier while the Turks and Caicos Islands and French Guiana will host Guyana in October and November 2018.

The Guyana Women are also engaged in the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualifiers in May. “The female programme has been recently relaunched in the country as well with a big focus on young players coming into the setup,” Greenwood noted.

“We recently competed in the CFU Women’s Challenge Series in Trinidad with a lot of 15- and 16-year-olds in the

squad. We also have a mix of Guyanese players based abroad. We are confident that over the next three to four years we can be a strong team in the region.”

Overall, Greenwood is pleased with the assistance being received from CONCACAF towards Guyana’s football development, particularly as it relates to coach education and league development.

“From CONCACAF’s standpoint, one of the major aspects we have been engaged in recently has been the coach licensing programmes because coach education is massive for us. Recently, we had three coaching instructors trained

by CONCACAF which will help raise the level of coaching in the country. The support we have been getting from CONCACAF in club development is also a major aspect we are looking to move forward with.

“Overall the engagements

we have with CONCACAF on the development side through the One CONCACAF funding is really helping to establish our development programmes and raising the level of professionalism and capacity within the country,” said Greenwood.

He was also clear on the objectives of the GFF, stating that the Federation has “recently established a national academy structure which is the first time Guyana has had such a structure. We are looking to have our youth teams participate in every competition.

“We have goals for our national senior team to be top a Caribbean team and a top FIFA one hundred-ranked team in the next two to three years. Ultimately, we also want to triple our licensed coaches in the country and increase the player population. We have 40 qualified CONCACAF D Licensed coaches which we intend to double and also move up to the C Licensed.”

BY Stephan Sookram A SIXTH place finish for overseas based Guyanese Calvin Ming was the result of round three of the Cooper Tyres USF2000 series in Indianapolis yesterday.

Ming started in sixth position after a six way battle for the pole position was separated by just over two-tenths of a second.

In race one; he was able to fight back after losing positions early to finish where he started, bringing home valuable points for the Pabst team as their highest finisher.

Ming spoke to Chronicle Sport saying, “Decent day to score points again and maintain 5th in the championship. But we have far more to go. So will be pushing for even more tomorrow [Today].”

He added, “Indy is definitely an amazing track for racing.

Every fine detail counts on this track as almost everyone is separated only by tenths. 0.1[of a second] can be the difference between 1st and 10th.”

“We have the pace to run upfront however the draft at this track is huge. So it becomes a race where you have to make smart decisions to keep your place. Hopefully I can improve my position by making those moves in the draft.”

He finished behind Sawn-RJB Motorsports Alex Baron, Cape Motorsport’s Kyle Kirkwood, DEForce Racing’s Jose Sierra, Jamie Caroline of BN Racing and Kroy Enders of DEForce.

Race two is billed for 09:15 and will see Ming starting sixth again behind Rasmus Lindh, Caroline, Baron, Lucas Khol and Kirkwood.

Ming finishes among the points in USF2000 Round 3

Calvin Ming in the Pabst USF2000 machine.

Hamilton on top with Red bulls in chase

Semple re-elected Malteenoes president

See Page 29

Essequibo Islands hold nerve to beat Parika Salem by 4 wickets See Page 27

Berbice Cricket is on the move again

See Page

See Page 31

31

Malteenoes SC President Winston Semple (middle sitting) and his new Executives after their Elections.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

SATURDAY, MAY 12, 2018