Guyana Chronicle Epaper 10 05 2018 by Guyana Chronicle

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Teen gangster admits complicity – as caution statement places him at Lindo Creek crime scene By Lisa Hamilton

AS the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the 2008 massacre of eight miners at Lindo Creek continues, the caution statement of alleged eyewitness Dwayne ‘SmallFriend’ Williams places him at the scene of the crime. At Tuesday’s hearing at the Department of Public Service on Waterloo Street, Special Superintendent of Police Trevor Reid who was summoned to testify, recounted his involvement in the case back in 2008, during which period he served as Subordinate Officer in charge of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit (MCIU) at the Criminal Investigations

Department (CID) headquarters. He testified that between June 15 and 16, 2008, he was made aware of the hijacking of a minibus on the UNAMCO Trail, and a later confrontation between the Joint Services and the Rondell ‘Fine-Man’ Rawlins gang. The confrontation, Reid recalled, resulted in the death of two persons. He said, too, that around the same time Williams was arrested in Ituni and brought to CID headquarters, where he was grilled about several crimes alleged to have been committed by ‘Fine-Man’ and his notorious gang. He said that it wasn’t until around June 20 when he received word about

the killing of the miners at Lindo Creek that he was asked to shift his focus to the matter. Reid told the commission that he would subsequently visit the Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara home of George Arokium, owner of the Lindo Creek mining camp, and take a statement from him. Reid said that in that statement, Arokium claimed that the miners were killed by members of the Joint Services. He said that after

speaking to Arokium, he was instructed to assist the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) with the collection of statements. And this is how he came, on July 4, 2008 and in the presence of two pastors and Detective Sergeant Rodwell Sarrabo, to take a caution statement from Dwayne Williams, then only 15, in relation to the Lindo Creek killing. Williams, allegedly a See page 8

Special Superintendent of Police, Trevor Reid, reading the caution statement of Dwayne ‘Small-Friend’ Williams

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS!

Attorney representing the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Roysdale Forde (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

Management, staff and directors of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited on Tuesday celebrated with Chairperson, Mrs Geeta Chandan-Edmond another birth anniversary during a small ceremony at the company’s office. Mrs Chandan-Edmond in (black suit) is all smiles for a group photograph (Samuel Maughn photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE wednesday, MAY 9, 2018

More charges coming

as Singh, Brassington released on $6M bail each

… appear in court handcuffed to answer public misconduct charges By Clestine Juan AMID a small protest by their colleagues, former Finance Minister under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration Dr Ashni Singh and former Chief Executive Officer of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Winston Brassington, on Tuesday appeared in court charged jointly on three counts of misconduct in public office. Handcuffed and escorted under police guard, Singh, 45, of Goedverwagting and Brassington, 50 of Cowan Street, Kingston had only a few hours arrived in Guyana from overseas when they were dragged before the court. The courtroom of Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court was packed with People’s Progressive Party (PPP) officials along with supporters as the two men were ushered into the prisoners’ dock to be read the charge. The first charge alleged that on Monday, December 28, 2009, by way of an agreement of sale and purchase both men “acted recklessly” when they sold to National Hardware Guyana Limited, lands amounting to 103.88 acres, property of the state for the sum of $598, 659, 398 (Vat exclusive) without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer. The second charge alleges that the duo on Tuesday, December 30, 2008, by way of agreement of sale and purchase “without due diligence” sold to Scady Business Corporation, land located at Liliendaal, ECD, amounting to 4,700 acres, also the property of the state, for the sum of $150,000,000 knowing that the said property was valued at $340,000,000 by Rodrigues Architects Associate. The final charge alleges that the former finance minister and former NICIL CEO on Saturday, May 14, 2011, by way of agreement of sale and purchase “acted recklessly” when they sold to Multi-cinemas Guyana Inc. 10, 002 acres of land located at Turkeyen, ECD, property of the state, for the sum of $185, 037,000 without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer. The men were not required to plead to the charge as Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Special Prosecutor Trenton Lake explained to the court that additional investigations into the matter are ongoing. The two defendants were represented by a battery of attorneys including, Anil Nandlall, Stanley Moore, Ronald BurchSmith, Mark Waldron, Sase Gunraj, Priya Manickchand, Marcia Sharma and Euclin Gomes. Attorney Nandlall explained to the court that no summons was served on his clients. “These charges are the first of its kinds in this country,” Nandlall said. The attorneys argued for the two defendants to be released on self-bail, but this was met with much objection by the SOCU Special

Prosecutor, Trenton Lake. The prosecutor noted that both defendants are the subjects of ongoing investigations by SOCU. Lake requested a two-week adjournment for the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) to be applied. This will allow the men to plead to the three charges. The matter was adjourned until June 5, 2018 and the men were released on $6M each. Meanwhile, still in court, Nandlall made an application for the bail to be reduced to $1M, but this was denied by the chief magistrate, who instead allowed the bail to be surety. I HAVE NO FEAR Dr. Ashni Singh, speaking to the reporter after posting bail, said, “I have no fear about the discharge of my duties being subject to scrutiny.” He added that the three matters are not a sudden discovery: “These transactions were publicly disclosed and published in the gazette, additionally in an extremely comprehensive document produced by Mr. Brassington on privatisation transaction. If you read the substance of these charges, there is absolutely no merit in them,” Singh said, as he explained that he is ready to fight the charges in court. Nandlall raised several questions, calling for clarity on the three charges.

Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited, Winston Brassington (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

“What did Ashni Singh and Brassington do? They are not accused of stealing a cent or profiteering…all they are being accused of is selling a property without valuation!? What is criminal with that?” Nandlall asked. Additionally, he stressed that the charges are aimed at humiliating and embarrassing his clients. “That is why when these charges are over, there is going to be a barrage of civil proceedings that are going to be reputation damage caused by these charges and persons are going to be sued personally for what is taking place,” he lamented. Present during the men’s court appearance were former President Donald Ramotar; former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds; former Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill; former Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee; and former Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn, along with other supporters. SCANDALS Both Dr Singh and Brassington had been at the centre of a number of alleged scandals that embroiled the former PPP government. Since the current government took office back in 2015, they were being sought in relation to these allegations, some stemming from the many forensic audits. Brassington in December of 2015 had said he was willing to undergo public scrutiny in the courts of law, maintaining that he is a man of integrity. One of the forensic audit reports on the operations of NICIL suggests that under the watch of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, NICIL engaged in malpractices and had made poor decisions on behalf of the people of Guyana. The audit which was conducted by former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran, had recommended criminal and/or disciplinary action against all those responsible for the interception of state revenues totalling $26.858 billion, in violation of the constitution. Goolsarran had said that several laws were broken. Brassington had left Guyana in December 2015 and was said to be living in Florida, where he is said to be operating a business, while Dr Singh was said to be living in Dubai. The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), which has filed the charges against the two men were trying since 2015 to get in touch with both of them. However, although the men were abroad, SOCU was conducting its investigations. NO APPROVAL The Stabroek News had reported in June last year that among the issues being dealt with by SOCU are the $26.8 billion which was used to meet expenditure without parliamentary approval – this sum represents dividends received from public corporations, as well as proceeds from the sale of state institutions and properties; the agency’s inability to account for $1.3 billion out of $3.7 billion disbursed for the maintenance of

FORMER Finance Minister under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration, Dr Ashni Singh interior roads; the $346.4 million for the construction of the High Street building; government’s inability to recover from Clico the bond lodged as security for satisfactory performance and the $51 million the contractor owes government; the $678.6 million paid out for the 2007 Cricket World Cup; amounts totalling over $749 million which were expended on activities unrelated to the operations of NICIL, but were charged to the agency’s accounts; the money spent on the Sparendaam Housing Project (Pradoville 2); negotiations with bidders for construction of the Marriott Hotel and accountability for money paid out to meet expenses associated with Carifesta X. The Goolsarran report found confiscating of the $26.8 billion by NICIL between 2002 and 2014 to be a violation of Article 216 of the constitution and related sections of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA). It also called for disciplinary action to be instituted against all those responsible for flouting National Assembly Resolution No. 32 of 17 December 2012, requiring NICIL to pay over to the Consolidated Fund “all revenues and proceeds from the sale of all state properties, except for those necessary administrative costs for maintaining and running its operations annually.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

US out of Iran nuclear deal …Trump’s move rattles European allies

US President Donald Trump says he will withdraw the US from an Obama-era nuclear agreement with Iran. Calling it “decaying and rotten”, he said the deal was “an embarrassment” to him “as a citizen”. Going against advice from European allies, he said he would re-impose economic sanctions that were waived when the deal was signed in 2015. In response, Iran said it was preparing to restart uranium enrichment, key for making both nuclear energy and weapons. Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani said: “The US has announced that it doesn’t respect its commitments. “I have ordered the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran to be ready to start the enrichment of uranium at industrial levels.” He said he would “wait a few weeks” to speak to allies and the other signatories to the nuclear deal first. “If we achieve the deal’s goals in cooperation with other members

of the deal, it will remain in place,” he said. The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) curbed Iran’s nuclear activities in return for the lifting of sanctions that had been imposed by the UN, US and EU. Mr Trump had previously complained that the deal only limited Iran’s nuclear activities for a fixed period; had failed to stop the development of ballistic missiles; and had handed Iran a $100bn (£74bn) windfall that it used “as a slush fund for weapons, terror, and oppression” across the Middle East. Former President Barack Obama, who signed the deal on behalf of the US three years ago, called Mr Trump’s announcement “misguided”.

When will the sanctions restart?

The US Treasury said economic sanctions would not be re-imposed on Iran immediately, but would be subject to 90-day and 180-day wind-

down periods. In a statement on its website, it said sanctions would be reimposed on the industries mentioned in the 2015 deal, including Iran’s oil sector, aircraft exports, precious metals trade, and Iranian government attempts to buy US dollar banknotes.

within six months or face US sanctions. All the signatories of the Iran deal, except for the US, have been in favour of keeping it in some form. After weeks of trying to dissuade President Trump, they pretty much knew what was coming. But the

What reaction has there been worldwide?

US President Donald Trump

US National Security Advisor John Bolton is reported as saying that European companies doing business with Iran will have to finish

announcement may have been even starker than they expected, with Mr Trump making clear that the full weight of sanctions would be reimposed,

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allowing little or no wriggle room. This leaves any foreign companies trying to do business with Iran in a difficult position. And it will make it even harder for leaders like the French President Emmanuel Macron to salvage the deal, despite committing themselves before and after the announcement to persevere with it.

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France, Germany and the UK have said they “regret” the American decision. Former President Obama said on Facebook that the deal was working and was in US interests. “Walking away from the JCPOA turns our back on America’s closest allies, and an agreement that our country’s leading diplomats, scientists, and intelligence professionals negotiated. “At a time when we are all rooting for diplomacy with North Korea to succeed, walking away from the JCPOA risks losing a deal that accomplishes - with Iran - the very outcome that we are pursuing with the North Koreans,” he said. The European Union’s top

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

diplomat, Federica Mogherini, said the EU was “determined to preserve” the deal. But Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he “fully supports” Mr Trump’s “bold” withdrawal from a “disastrous” deal. And Saudi Arabia, Iran’s regional rival, says it “supports and welcomes” Mr Trump’s moves towards pulling out of the deal.

What was agreed under the deal?

The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) saw Iran agree to limit the size of its stockpile of enriched uranium - which is used to make reactor fuel, but also nuclear weapons - for 15 years and the number of centrifuges installed to enrich uranium for 10 years. Iran also agreed to modify a heavy water facility so it could not produce plutonium suitable for a bomb. In return, sanctions imposed by the UN, US and EU that had crippled Iran’s economy were lifted. The deal was agreed between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council - the US, UK, France, China and Russia - plus Germany. Iran insists its nuclear programme is entirely peaceful, and its compliance with the deal has been verified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Belize acquires multi-million dollar loan for road project THE BELIZE government has secured a multi-million dollar loan from the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) for the construction of the Airport Link Road. The government Monday said it had signed a BZ$34.2 million (One Belize dollar=US$0.49 cents) with the Belize company, CISCO Construction Ltd. for the project. The proposed upgrades for the Airport Link Road include the construction of one high-level bridge, which will intersect at the George Price highway and cross the Belize River to intersect the airport access road near Gentrac Belize Ltd.; and the construction of earthen embankments, crushed gravel pavements, and two lanes with shoulders conforming to a 100kph design criteria. The project will be implemented by the Ministry of Works – Project Execution Unit while NARCO Consultants of Kuwait will provide technical and administrative supervision. The government said that the works are expected to commence immediately. (CMC)

PM Rowley to pay official visit to China

PRIME MINISTER Dr. Keith Rowley leaves here next week for an official visit to China, according to a brief statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday. It said that Rowley, who is leading a five-member delegation that includes Foreign Affairs Minister Dennis Moses, has accepted an invitation from the People’s Republic of China for the May 14-19 visit. The statement noted that the two countries have been working on a number of

initiatives in various areas including, finance, tourism, construction and the airline industries and towards mutual benefits associated with President Xi Jinping’s One Belt and One Road initiative. “It is expected that Trinidad and Tobago will sign a number of MOUs with the People’s Republic of China on this visit and the leaders will reaffirm the importance of the relationship to each country,” the statement said, adding that .following the visit, Prime Minister Rowley and

Moses will travel to travel to Australia as a result for a working visit at the invitation of the Australian Prime Minister Julia Eileen Gillard. “The discussions in Australia will focus on national security issues, possible financing arrangements and the possibility of purchasing ferries for the sea bridge between Trinidad and Tobago. The delegation is expected to visit Perth, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney in Australia before returning to Trinidad.” (CMC)

ECLAC and Cuba join in a dialogue about its path to sustainable development THE EXECUTIVE Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Alicia Bárcena, reaffirmed on Monday the United Nations regional organisation’s commitment to accompanying Cuba, and all the organisation’s member countries, on its own journey toward sustainable development, in the session prior to the inauguration of the thirty-seventh session of ECLAC, which was dedicated to the host country of the gathering taking place through Friday, May 11, in Havana. During National Day, organized by the Cuban government to analyze ECLAC’s contribution to the economic and social thinking of Latin America and the Caribbean, Alicia Bárcena expressed appreciation for the progress made in Cuba on implementation of the

2030 Agenda and its commitment to a comprehensive approach to development. “ECLAC, as well as the government of Cuba, have both pointed on numerous occasions to the importance of a comprehensive approach to development, which is to say, development in which the economy advances, with social progress and respect for the environment, which gives rise to sustainable development,” the regional Commission’s highest representative stated. During her speech, the senior United Nations official highlighted the historical relationship between ECLAC and Cuba, in which mutual respect and trust have prevailed. She added that, ten years ago, ECLAC initiated a process of reflection that put equality at the center of the development agenda, with proposals for progressive structural change. “Today we uphold

our conviction that Latin America and the Caribbean must continue on the path toward equality,” Alicia Bárcena said. She also stressed that an active State that avoids precariousness with regard to all that is public is a fundamental condition for sustainable development with equality. Furthermore, she reaffirmed the organization’s concern regarding the current global scenario with trends toward the strengthening of protectionism and unilateralism. “As never before, the issues of poverty, immigration, war and inequality are global issues. Climate change and the threat that it represents to future generations is, by definition, an issue that knows no borders. As never before, humanity confronts the need to cooperate globally on a multilateral basis and with mutual respect. This is a cause that

ECLAC has made its best efforts to further,” she stated. National Day was inaugurated by Rodrigo Malmierca, Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment, who affirmed that the thirty-seventh session of ECLAC has a singular relevance due to the pertinence of the issues that will be addressed, its role in the development of Latin America and the Caribbean and its coincidence with the regional organization’s 70th anniversary. In addition, he stressed the importance of the debates that will take place this week, centered on ECLAC’s position paper The Inefficiency of Inequality, which the regional Commission will officially present on Thursday, May 10. Malmierca added that in the last seven decades “ECLAC has not only been present, it has been a protagonist, providing support and serving as

a leader of economic-social thinking in Latin America and the Caribbean.” Other participants in the activity included Stefano Manservisi, the European Commission’s Director-General for International Cooperation and Development; Mario Pezzini, Director of the Development Center of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); and Consuelo Vidal, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cuba, among other authorities. The attendees debated at panels that addressed issues such as the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and sustainable development with equality and foreign investment. They also addressed South-South cooperation, with ECLAC’s Executive Secretary highlighting that international cooperation must take into account the global public goods agen-

da for which horizontal, South-South and triangular or trilateral cooperation are key to a comprehensive perspective. “In addition, international cooperation must seek partnerships with the private sector, development banks, local governments and civil society,” she added. In parallel, a meeting was held at which Caribbean countries addressed, among other issues, climate resilience and regional solidarity. ECLAC’s thirty-seventh session will be officially inaugurated tomorrow, Tuesday, May 8, by the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres; the regional organization’s Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena; the Chief of Staff of Mexico’s Office of the President, Francisco Guzmán; and a Cuban authority. The event will run through Friday, May 11.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Universal basic income DURING the past few weeks, international reports have surfaced that the Finnish experiment with basic income will not be extended, disappointing many progressive thinkers. This is because the Finnish experience has been looked at as a potential model for similar programmes worldwide which have grown in popularity as a potential solution to many modern-day anxieties. Put simply, universal basic income means everyone would receive a small paycheck, regardless of whether working or not, and of income. In particular, there is a very great fear that automation will replace most jobs, and artificial intelligence almost all the others eventu-

ally. Universal basic incomes would ensure citizens earn their fair share of national wealth, even if a group of wealthy corporations produce most goods and services, employing few. It would also prevent the mass concentration of wealth, and perhaps even political power, in the hands of those savvy enough to understand the technology’s intricacies. Guyana is, to be sure, some distance from seriously contemplating such a national policy, but this does touch on an important local issue, that of whether there should be robust unemployment benefits. We may not have robots hungrily clawing after our jobs, but that certainly doesn’t mean Guyanese don’t face great uncertainty and

economic hardship when employed. This relates to what former President Jagdeo didn’t really articulate, but tangentially addressed when he said he would pay sugar workers a monthly income from oil revenues until they found work. While that may or may not be the right policy for Guyana, it is important to recognise the difficulties our brothers and sisters in that industry have faced, and be open to ways of helping smoothen their transition to other forms of employment. Instead, robust unemployment benefits would surely go a long way in cushioning any economic shock we see locally. The question that does need to be asked though, is whether such benefits might

create a perverse incentive. After all, some might never want to stop receiving benefits, preferring to relax at home rather than actively contribute to the economy. This has often been the criticism levelled at Scandinavian countries, which feature some of the most lavish benefits to be found anywhere. Further, what would such a robust scheme cost the taxpayers? Would it mean an increase in VAT? Or would it be funded entirely from oil revenue? These would definitely be critical questions as any policy is sculpted and indeed unemployment benefits is one of the most complex public-policy questions, with a wide array of options and approaches available. These many options come with their

own philosophies on the role of government as well, so debates can be both detailed and difficult to resolve. Perhaps the biggest impediment Guyana faces is that our economy remains a mid-level one, and thus has a relatively high number of unemployed people. The Census Bureau put unemployment at 12 per cent, many times that of the developed economies that most commonly feature good unemployment programmes. This would mean a much wider segment of the population regularly drawing funds from government cof-

fers, a cost that is likely to be unsustainable. Sympathy for our working population fallen on hard times is thus something we should certainly all embrace, even if the particular form it takes remains uncertain. The world awaits further comment from the Finnish government on its basic-income scheme, and on the academic papers that must surely follow this brave experiment. Who knows, maybe it will yield insights that can guide even Guyana’s far distant circumstances.

Come on City Hall: ‘What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander’ Dear Editor, IT would be difficult to find a citizen of Georgetown who is not nauseated and repelled by the photograph in the newspapers recently of the Town Clerk of Georgetown constables pouncing upon and removing over 30 hapless vendors who have been plying their trade on Alexander Street. I say to the ‘King’ and his constables, just as Bayard Rustin once said, “If we desire a society of peace, then we cannot achieve such

a society through violence.” If we desire a society without discrimination, then we must not discriminate against anyone in the process of building this society. If we desire a society that is democratic, then democracy must become a means as well as an end. Why do they not remove the vendors at the corners of Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic, obliquely opposite City Hall, who are selling rat poison and other pesticides? The Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control

Board (PTCCB) of Guyana has said numerous times that the sale of pesticides and other toxic chemicals from roadside vendors is dangerous to health and against the law. Indeed, the law requires vendors to be certified before they sell. These vendors are not certified. It seems as though the folks at City Hall are completely unconcerned that according to the World Health Organization, 44.2 in every 100,000 Guyanese commit suicide every year – compared to the global average of

16. And the epidemic affects young and old with children as young as 10 killing themselves, with the most common method being through the use of poison, generally involving pesticides or rat poison. Why don’t they stop the vendors around the Bourda and other markets from selling chicken, especially after hours? The Municipal and District Councils Act Chapter 28:01, City Market -ByLaws states that: “It shall not be lawful for any person to bring without permission of

the Council uncooked fresh meat into the market. Also, no person shall sell or offer for sale in any market fresh meat, except at a stall set aside and appropriated for that purpose”. So why is the city turning a blind eye to the selling of poultry meat outside the markets? But aside from these two egregious examples, one just has to look at the pavements of Regent, Robb, Water, King, Wellington, America Streets, etc, and one will see them chockfull with vendors.

Are they not as illegal as the ones they are removing from Alexander Street? Are they not interfering with traffic as well and blocking entrances? What about the mobile fish caravan (King Fish) that is illegally occupying a spot at the corners of Regent and King Streets? Should they not be removed? Come on City Hall. “What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” Regards Modi Sankar

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

GRA seizes foreign chicken, mosquito coils --in another high-seas bust

IN another sting operation recently on the Atlantic Ocean, the Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) intercepted a motor vessel containing hundreds of boxes of foreign chicken and mosquito coils. According to the GRA, the captain and two sailors on board the vessel were apprehended and placed in custody. The tax agency has noted that while the pair were firsttime offenders, many of the perpetrators are repeaters. Second-time offenders, the GRA says, are liable to pay three times the duties and taxes as a fine, while third-timers may be prosecuted and/or be allowed to pay three times the value of

The supplies that were seized

the item as a fine, as compensation in lieu of court proceedings. These offences, in many cases, the agency said, also result in seizure of the goods and confiscation of the vehicles involved. “The LEID operation exemplifies the GRA’s commitment to deter, disrupt, and prosecute individuals who attempt to import prohibited items, and evade the payment of their fair share of duties and taxes,” it said, adding: “Whistleblowers have significantly improved LEID’s performance and the agency’s revenue collection, and the general public must be complimented for aiding the authority’s efforts in stamping out this activity.”

We need to be tougher on women abusers Dear Editor

HOW is it remotely possible a man with several kilos of ganja gets a four- year sentence, but a man who blatantly admitted to beating his wife with a rolling pin, severely damaging her body, (not to mention the mental, physical and emotional trauma she must have faced previously), gets only 18 months? The funding, programmes, “initiatives” and women’s groups are all in vain, if men keep seeing light sentences for blatantly brutalising and admitting to brutalising women. It sets a sub-conscious precedent that a woman’s life is worth less than a bag of dope. Newspapers and people preach

constantly about how the “attitude” of the culture needs to change, but what really needs to change is the way the court and law enforcement deal with these sensitive cases. Selling and smoking weed is a non-violent offence; much of the world is beginning to see the benefits of the plant and are legalising it. Yet here we are in 2018, jailing men for a plant, but allowing rapists, child molesters and abusers to run rampant. And you wonder why there is little to no social progress? Why people are getting robbed in broad daylight? Violence begets violence, the abuse witnessed by these young people at home is the trickle-down effect of the

crimes we are seeing within our society today. If people in power, in any capacity, truly cared for this country, implementing ways to fully eradicate domestic violence would be at the forefront of their campaign. We would be creating ways to prevent, not treat, crime. Instead, we keep putting a band aid over a bruise, hoping it would heal the wound. What needs to be done is stricter laws have to be put in place for these atrocious men who feel as if they are rulers over the women in their lives. The police and the other relevant authorities need to be adequately trained and then held accountable if they belittle, disrespect or disregard these abused women or

these abuse claims. Real support and protection needs to be given to these women and their families. How many brave, strong women have somehow found a means of escape from their abusers, trying to raise their families and contribute to society in a positive way, only to find their abuser staking, threatening and in many cases killing them after many unheard cries for help from the police? The creation of wealth from oil and gas means absolutely nothing if we as a country continue to inadvertently cosign on the inhumane killing, abuse and disrespect of our women. Regards Stephanie Persaud

GPA clarifies issues surrounding media passes Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Press Association (GPA) seeks to set the record straight about the issuance of media passes. The GPA met with Director of the Department of Public Information, Imran Khan, on January 30th, 2018, when among other issues the two groups discussed the issuance of media passes. Then, the GPA raised its concerns about the mis-

use of media passes over the years by the politically headed organisation and Mr Khan pointed out that the DPI was not “comfortable” with the issuance of media passes. To this end, the GPA said that it has always believed that the body should issue media passes to bona fide members of the media and submitted a legal agreement for the “Accreditation of media Workers” on February 11th, 2018, to guide the process.

Since there was no formal acknowledgement or response to our submission, several GPA executives sought to verbally ascertain the status of the agreement. We were told that the agreement was with then Acting Prime Minister, Vice-President Carl Greenidge and then at one time the agreement is with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. Another written inquiry sent on April 16th, 2018 about the status of this

agreement has gone unanswered. It is now May, 2018 and our members and colleagues are without legitimate media passes for the year. The GPA stands ready to discuss accreditation in the new year with clear commitments to respecting time and this profession. Regards Nazima Raghubir President, Guyana Press Association

Teen gangster admits...

Miner crushed by rock

A 20-YEAR-OLD miner was reportedly killed when a rock pinned him down while he was working on a dredge at Pepper Camp, Backdam, Upper Mazaruni River on Monday. Dead is Ken Ranny of Kamarang (Warawatta), Upper Mazaruni River. Reports indicate that Ranny was in the mining pit clearing the ‘marrock drain’ when the southern wall of the pit collapsed, causing a large rock to fall and pinned him underneath. The other workers ran to his aid and were able to retrieve him from under the rock. However, when he was pulled out it was observed that he was motionless. He was taken to the Kamarang Health Post where he was pronounced dead by a medex.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

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member of the ‘FineMan’ gang, is currently on trial in the High Court in relation to the 2008 Bartica Massacre in which 12 persons were killed.

A TRUE COPY Asked to say whether the photocopied caution statement provided at Tuesday’s hearing was a true copy of the original document, Reid replied in the affirmative, since the handwriting was his. The reading of Williams’ statement, dated July 4, 2008, outlined the gruesome after-effect of the ‘Fine-Man’ gang’s encounter with the miners. “We walk into them man camp; we hold on pon them and ‘Magic’

tally them up. We cook a chowmein and we stay there till next morning. The morning time, we mek tea and give them fuh drink. The night time, rain been falling; we been fuh beat out the said night, but we didn’t worry,” Williams was quoted as saying in the statement. “About 12 o’clock time, meh been sleeping and meh hear shots start burst. When meh look, meh see them man wuh them tie up; them shoot up them man. “Eight man been there, and all of them get shoot. They pull down them blue tarpaulin from one of the camp, and ‘Magic’ throw gasoline pon them and light them afire,” he added.

By Williams’ account, he later became separated from the gang and decided to hitch a ride with a motor grader, then a truck, but was subsequently apprehended by plainclothes policemen when the latter vehicle made a stop at a shop. Intrigued no doubt by what the caution statement revealed, and curious as to why the case was managed by the OPR and not the MCIU, CoI Chairman Justice Donald Trotman asked Reid:c “Between 2008 and 2012, while you were

in charge of the serious crimes unit, you were not doing anything concerning this very serious crime?” Reid’s response was that although cases investigated by the MCIU include murders, kidnappings, piracy and hijackings, because of the nature of the Lindo Creek massacre, it was not strange that the OPR should take it over. Pressed further by attorney representing the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Roysdale Forde, into saying whether he had seen a completed OPR

report on the conduct of the GPF officers regarding the investigation and whether he believed the investigation is complete, Reid replied: “As an investigator, I think that much more work needed to be done; could have been done, and this what we’re doing here today would not have been needed.” When the hearing continues today, the commission will be visiting the Lindo Creek campsite to engage in dialogue with residents at Constabulary Hall, Linden.

GUYANA CHRONICLE wednesday, MAY 9, 2018

Gov’t wants no role in media accreditation …says GPA had agreed to take full responsibility THE Government on Tuesday said it wants no role in the accreditation of media workers here, but has offered to help finance the production of media cards-something which the Guyana Press Association (GPA) has agreed to, the Department of Public Information (DPI) has said. The DPI was responding to a statement by the GPA on Monday, which sought to blame the administration for the delay in the issuance of media passes. The Director of Public Information Imran Khan, in his statement confirmed having met with the newly elected GPA executive on January 30, 2018. He said the meeting was cordial and productive and a number of matters were raised by the GPA executives. According to Khan, while the GPA raised the delay in the issuance of 2018 media accreditation, contrary to its statement, it was he (Khan) who broached the issue of the rightful agency for issuing media accreditation. Khan outlined that unlike what had obtained previously, government is not the proper authority to issue media accreditation nor was the Coalition Government so inclined. “This was unanimously agreed to by the GPA executives present. As per best practice worldwide, Mr. Khan conveyed that it is the responsibility of the GPA to ensure that its members are duly accredited by whatever mechanism it chooses,” the DPI statement read. ASSISTANCE According to the DPI, Khan being aware of the financial constraints of the GPA and the not unsubstantial cost of producing the media passes, he, in good faith, offered to the GPA, government’s assistance in the form of covering the cost of the production of the media accreditation cards only. “Mr. Khan proposed to the GPA that it should decide on its process for receiving applications, reviewing and approving same and either: (a) send a list with the relevant information for [the] DPI to produce the cards and return to the GPA for distribution, or (b) GPA produce the cards at a provider of their choice and [the] DPI cover the cost (providing that the relevant quotations are submitted beforehand and approved).” According to the DPI statement, Khan explained that given that this proposal involved the use of govern-

ment funds (budgeted for in 2018) it required ministerial sanction. He clarified that at the time of the discussion, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootooo, the subject minister, was overseas for a medical procedure. Vice President Carl Greenidge who acted in his stead, in addition to a hectic travel schedule was exceptionally busy attending to matters relating to Guyana’s defence of our territorial integrity and other matters and only belatedly had an opportunity to review the agreement document drafted by the GPA. By this time, Prime Minister Nagamootoo had returned to Guyana and assumed his substantive function, and has been even as he continues recovery, been attending to a considerable backlog of matters. The DPI said during the meeting with the GPA, Mr. Khan submitted that for events such as post-Cabinet press conferences and other high level events, a special level of accreditation should be done for select members of the media who cover these events. This, he said is not dissimilar to the higher level of accreditation for the White House Press Corps in the United States. “This was strongly resisted by the GPA executives present who were adamant that all media personnel, with their standard media accreditation, should be permitted to cover all events regardless of the nature or stature. Mr. Khan agreed to this on two conditions: (i) that the GPA sends a list to [the] DPI of all media accredited by the GPA so that [the]DPI can distribute to all ministries and government offices (ii) that all media accredited by the GPA receive clearance by the Guyana Police Force (a system which is currently in place). Both of these were agreed to by the GPA executives present.” NOTHING STOPPING THE GPA Meanwhile, the DPI clarifies that absolutely nothing is preventing the GPA from producing 2018 accreditation for media personnel, outlining that it is not government’s responsibility or desire to accredit media and that government will not do so and that the GPA must decide on its own mechanism for same. Additionally, [the] DPI said that media workers are not being prevented from executing their functions in any way, as prior and further

to the discussions with GPA [the] media had been advised that until the new accreditations are produced the 2017 accreditation will be accepted for entry to all government media events. “DPI wishes to reiterate that consistent with best practice worldwide and as a departure from the ‘control freakism’ of the previous administration, this

Coalition Government has removed itself completely from accrediting media and this responsibility falls entirely with the Guyana Press Association. It is the GPA’s sole responsibility. The decision of government to remove itself from the media accreditation process is at the core of freedom of the press and one of the most significant measures taken in

recent history to strengthen press freedom in Guyana,” the DPI statement added. It said that the Coalition Government will continue to act in good faith with the media and provide support to the GPA and media workers where feasible. Further, the DPI and the Coalition Government reaffirmed their commitment to the strengthening of press

Director of Public Information Imran Khan freedom in Guyana and have acted demonstrably in this regard.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Guyana is becoming the land of opportunities

–Swiss envoy

NON-RESIDENT Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Guyana, Mr. Didier Chassot, on Tuesday said that Guyana is becoming the ‘land of opportunities’ as he noted that with the development of an oil and gas sector and the pursuit of the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS), the nation is an attractive destination for investment. In an invited comment at the Ministry of the Presidency, following a meeting with President David Granger, the Swiss Ambassador, who is based in Venezuela, said that in addition to his meeting with the Head of State, he is also in Guyana to explore and expand on areas of collaboration between the two countries as well as opportunities for investment for Swiss and Guyanese investors in both countries. “We… know that Guyana is going through or about to go through a transformative period thanks to the oil findings and this

could have a tremendous impact on the whole country and Guyana is becoming a land of opportunities, so we are also very keen to develop the cooperation on the economic aspect. This morning, I had a meeting with GoInvest [Guyana Office for Investment] precisely to have a briefing on what the opportunities would be for Swiss investors and for the business community to come to Switzerland. Very recently, an agreement on the promotion and protection of the investments between Guyana and Switzerland came into effect so this gives the business communities in Guyana and Switzerland a good legal framework so we want to develop the cooperation,” he said. Ambassador Chassot also noted that Switzerland acknowledges the strident efforts Guyana has been making in its pursuit of ‘green’ development. During a meeting between President Granger and former President of the Swiss Confederation, Ms. Doris

President David Granger and Non-resident Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Guyana, Mr. Didier Chasso Leuthard on the sidelines of the Minamata Convention on Mercury in Geneva in 2017, strengthening of the cooperation between the two countries in matters of the environment were discussed. In this regard, the Swiss Ambassador said that the country looks forward to the transfer of its expertise and experiences to Guyana as it has a common ‘green’ vision to combat the effects of climate change and global warming and create a more sustainable planet. “We are trying to build on this exchange. We identified several areas of possible cooperation. We know of the commitment of Guyana and the President himself, with regard to the environment and its protection, the ‘green’ economy and we believe that there is ground for cooperation and exchange of expertise. Certainly, there is expertise and experience we can share and I am sure we can be able to develop something concrete on a bilateral level. The President has spoken about the rich biodiversity that Guyana has

and the richness of the environment and this is indeed something that has to be preserved not just for Guyana but the whole world and Switzerland is willing to contribute to these efforts,” he said. Ambassador Chassot has also met with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat to discuss areas of collaboration and cooperation particularly in the area of disaster risk management and building resilience to natural disasters. “One of the areas of possible cooperation that we have identified is disaster risk reduction, disaster management, disaster relief and resilience. The region has been affected by hurricanes in the recent past. It is very likely that similar events will occur in the future again and Switzerland already has a commitment in those specific issues in the region. We would like to develop cooperation here in the region with CARICOM and member states,” the Swiss Ambassador noted. (Ministry of the Presidency)

David Rose Special School celebrates 50 years THE David Rose Special School which was opened on May 8th, 1968, celebrated 50 years of existence with an anniversary ceremony held at the school at Thomas Lands on Tuesday. Delivering the feature address at the ceremony, Chief Education Officer Mr Marcel Hutson said that the school’s ability to accomplish 50 years is a testimony to resilience and character. He said that children with special needs are often neglected by society and would receive negative feedback. He added that those attitudes towards special needs children over time have gone through a transformation period in Guyana. Further, he said that the Ministry of Education (MoE) is looking to establish an See page 11

Head Teacher of the David Rose Special School, Ms. Dionne McKenzie

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Lindo Creek crime scene was nauseous

…GDF officer recalls seeing rotting flesh, bones

LIEUTENANT Colonel Lloyd Souvenir on Tuesday told the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI) that the Rondell “Fineman” Rawlins gang may have been mistaken as Joint Services members due to their camouflage clothing and military ammunition. Souvenir was present on Tuesday before the Justice Donald Trotman-led Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the 2008 killing of eight miners at the Lindo Creek campsite. The inquiry is being held at the Department of Public Service on Waterloo Street. During 2008, Souvenir was deployed from 6th-29th of June in Kwakwani as the Operations Officer for the Joint Task Force to capture the “Fineman” gang operating, then, in the Christmas Falls area. Souvenir told the commission of an incident which occurred on Monday, 16th June, 2008 where word came to the Kwakwani headquarters of an attempted armed robbery at Goat Farm during the morning hours. At the time all the patrols were stationed elsewhere, so Souvenir assembled a team of six ranks from persons within the headquarters who travelled to the Goat Farm area, in the hopes of later being relieved by the Joint Services.

The team remained there until evening and around that time came into contact with three armed men who opened fire at the ranks after refusing to give themselves up. “The men fired at us and we returned fire. One of the men run away and keep firing at us but because of the angle he ran from us it was difficult for us to continue to engage him and we went forward to the other two and disarmed them, they were motionless on the ground,” he said. On their way back to Kwakwani, the ranks met up with the Joint Services and debriefed them. A search of the gunmen’s equipment revealed: 2 AK47 rifles, 781 7.60x39mm rounds, credit cards, sim cards, cell phones, torchlights, camouflage clothing, stove, pot, food stuff and a frequent flyer credit card with the name of the late and former Agriculture Minister, Satyadeow Sawh. These items were recovered in two haversacks worn by the men, and Souvenir noted that one of the weapons bore the serial number of the late Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Lance Corporal Ivor Williams who had dropped his weapon when he was shot and killed in Buxton in 2008. The other firearm had the serial number

David Rose Special School ...

From page 10

Autism School to be built in the compound of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) at Turkeyen. The CEO said that Special Education Needs in Guyana will soon be strengthened when the Diagnostic Centre within the said CPCE compound becomes fully operational. That centre became a reality through collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Education, CARICOM and the Cuban Government. He said that the MoE has recognised that persons with special needs can be assisted to become functional and to fulfil their potential. He urged teachers of the school to continue being persons with empathy, since it is a needed quality so that they can effectively cater to the needs of the students. Meanwhile, Head Teacher of the school, Ms Dionne McKenzie in her presentation, spoke of the school’s wish list. She said that by 2025, the deaf children of the school must be able to write all national examinations and that there should be adequate diagnoses of children by 2020. She added that the school would like to have a dietician and a nurse by January 2019. Also delivering remarks was Fashion Designer Sonia Noel, who said that it is important to be accommodating and ap-

preciative of persons with special needs. She urged that much attention be given to the area of special education needs to see what more can be done for the children, while simultaneously allowing the David Rose Special School to be a model to other institutions. During the event, both students and teachers performed a number of cultural items and some teachers were also honoured. Among those recognised were past head teachers of the school, past students, organisations that contribute to the school and some of the long-serving staff. Private sector entities that were recognised include Scotia Bank Guyana Limited, the Sai Baba Organisation, Global Technology, N&S Mattai and Company, New Building Society, Republic Bank Guyana Limited and PNP Insurance. Other partners that support the school and were recognised for their efforts were President’s College, Samaritans’ Purse, the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, United Women’s Organisation and Sabine McIntosh. After the ceremony, attendees were guided to an exhibition prepared by the students and teachers which featured items from the various classes such as craft, agriculture science, cosmetology, dressmaking and art.

of another weapon which went missing from the GDF storage bond. Presented with photographs of the slain gunmen, Souvenir pointed out in two of the photos where he saw camouflage clothing being worn under the t-shirts of the men through holes in their garments. His observations were similar to the ones made by GDF Major Andy Pompey, and Lieutenant Colonel Omar Khan, who testified at Monday’s hearing. Pompey suggested that these factors, along with the stolen weapons, may have resulted in the assumption that the men were part of the Joint Services. Speaking on the matter of the massacre, Souvenir testified that on 22nd June,

2008 a police team which he accompanied visited the Lindo Creek campsite and witnessed the gruesome aftermath. “The camp was destroyed…things were scattered, there was a heap of what appeared to be human bones with the flesh rotting. For me it was nauseous,” he recounted. During the period of deployment in the area, Souvenir recalled that a helicopter was attached to the taskforce for the conducting of aerial patrol. Additionally, Souvenir told the inquiry that around the 25th June, buried ammunition, shot gun cartridges and weapons were recovered along the trail between Goat Farm and Ituni.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Regional consultations on GSDS begin Armed bandits

THE Department of Environment, Ministry of the Presidency, in collaboration with the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) Coordinating Office/UN Environment, has commenced regional consultations for the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). National consultations are required to ensure participation of citizens under the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. The GSDS consultations will be conducted across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions during May and June 2018. In a release on Tuesday, the Department of Environment said consultations commenced on April 26 in Region Three at Bagotville/Vreed-en-Hoop, and were held on May 2 at the Barnwell Conference Hall in Barnwell/Parika, and in Region Four in St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), on April 27. The consultations in each region were hosted by the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs), in collaboration with

the Ministry of Communities (MoC) and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MoIPA), with the help of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). The events saw participation by over 300 persons representing youths and school-age children, and community and village representatives who identified their key priorities for inclusion in the GSDS. The objectives of the consultations are to raise awareness about the GSDS, and to ensure that the people of Guyana can participate in and contribute to development of the GSDS by identifying and prioritising their regional needs and expectations. Participants will learn about the “Framework of the Guyana Green State Development Strategy and Financial Mechanisms”, a document developed in 2017 and approved by the Government of Guyana that sets about to establish key sectoral and thematic priorities of the strategy.

The national consultations are being conducted under the theme, “Time to Think”, which encourages Guyanese citizens to think about how Guyana should be developed economically and sustainably over the Strategy’s 20-year time-frame, and to communicate their ideas and vision. “It is very important for citizens to make a special effort to attend these consultations, which will provide the opportunity for Guyanese from all walks of life to ensure that their concerns and aspirations for themselves and their communities are taken into account in the design of the GSDS,” says Minister for State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, under whose purview the Department of Environment falls. Consultations in Region Five took place on Tuesday at the Mahaicony Community Centre, while another is scheduled for Thursday from 09:30 -15:30hrs at the St. Alban’s Anglican Church in Belladrum, West Coast Berbice.

pounce on drinkers

–– cart off flat-screen TV on bicycle TWO bandits on bicycles rode into a Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt yard and robbed two men who were consuming alcohol Tuesday afternoon. Reports indicate that the victims were sitting outside consuming alcohol when the two men on the bicycle rode into the yard and dismounted. One, who was armed with a handgun, held the duo at gunpoint and robbed them of their cash and valuables. The other bandit, who was unarmed, then went into the house situated in the lower flat and collected a flat-screen TV before returning on the bicycle. The men then escaped west along Laing Avenue on the bicycle. The police were contacted and statements were given as the police continue their investigation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE wednesday, MAY 9, 2018

Thirteen graduate from Davis Memorial foundational nursing course

THE Davis Memorial Hospital, on Sunday graduated 13 students from its Foundation Health Care (FHC) programme who were charged by Junior Minister of Public Health Karen Cummings to be professional in their practice. This is the 17th batch of graduates to emerge from the course, which aims to produce multi-faceted workers who possess basic health care knowledge, skills and attitudes to perform competently at a foundation level. Delivering the main address, Cummings said that as Guyana experiences the

greatest transformation of the public healthcare delivery sector, every health worker must adapt and operate at the highest of standards. She urged the graduates as they manoeuvre the course of their profession, to learn from mistakes, maintain high self-expectations and develop excellent communication skills as they assist the most vulnerable in society. “Always strive to convert the signs and the art of being an exemplary healthcare professional into a life-changing legacy for generations to come. Preserve the best values of the

Junior Minister of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings (centre); Medical Director of the DMH, Dr. Lindon Leach (first left); Chief Executive Officer of DMH, Dr. Beverly Braithwaite-Chan (second right) and Director of Nursing Services of DMH, Sharee Smalling-Leach (first right) stand along with the graduates of the Foundation Health Care (FHC) programme (photo by Lisa Hamilton)

India’s minister of state on visit here INDIA’S Minister of State for Hum an Resources Development, Dr Satya Pal Singh, Tuesday commenced a three-day visit to Guyana as part of the special “Outreach Programme” initiated by the Government of India to meet with leaders and the Indian diaspora. A press statement by the Indian High Commission noted that Dr. Singh, who also has responsibility for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, will be accompanied by his wife Alka Singh. During his visit, Minister Singh is scheduled to

meet with President David Granger; Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman; Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. The High Commission further noted that Dr Singh will also meet with Guyana’s Opposition Leader and former President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo. “During the meetings, various issues of interest regarding bilateral and multilateral will be discussed. He is also scheduled to

India’s Minister of State for Human Resources Development, Dr Satya Pal Singh interact with the Indian diaspora, including Indian expatriates in Guyana at a reception hosted in honour of the visiting minister,” the High Commission stated.

esteemed medical profession that will cause you to inspire others. “Today, we all stand at the precipice of the future; it is no longer a distant thing for one to reach at some point. The future is here, it starts now, it starts with you,” she said. Speaking about the work of the government, Dr Cummings said that the health ministry continues to pursue several programmes which aim to strengthen the public health system, providing equal access to all. These efforts form a part of the ministry’s vision to provide universal access to superior health care by the year 2020. With this in mind, the minister remarked:

“Every health worker, every medical professional, must align his or her work ethic and professionalism with the direction in which the ministry is heading...You will need to be patient, caring, sensitive and professional at all times...I urge you to ground yourselves in your passion and do not allow anything to distract you.” Meanwhile, words of advice and encouragement came from Chief Nursing Officer of the Ministry of Public Health, Tarmattie Barker and representative of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, Pastor Hugh McKenzie. Receiving special tokens were: Best Graduating Student, Simonica Fanfair; Second Best

Graduating Student, Kanata Williams and the Most Improved Student, Orwin Noel. The one-year FHC course is endorsed by the Ministry of Public Health, the University of Guyana and is recognised by the National Accreditation Council of Guyana. Students study in the areas of medical laboratory, dental care, radiography, anatomy, physiology, occupational safety and health, mental health, information technology and much more. Meanwhile, practical attachments are completed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Complex (GPHC), the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and the Davis Memorial Hospital.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

The graceful balance between national security and freedom of speech By Ronald Austin Jr IT is Guyana’s turn to experience the debate on national security and freedom of speech. We are late to the party by global standards. This contestation is often never settled. This deliberation may never cease and it should not. The progressives will continue to baulk at legislative attempts by governments to secure its protection, agents of government globally will maintain their right to protect against digital threats in the age of modern technology. As this healthy national debate ensues, it is important for statesmen and women to approach this issue prudently.

There has to be a graceful balance to achieve too inviolable objectives: national security and freedom of speech. THE CASE OF THE STATE Ever since the modern state was introduced with the Peace of Westphalia (1648), threats to those who provide custody over the state have always been real. Rebellions, insurrections, revolutions and coup d’etats are words dreaded by governments. During the days of no computers, no smart phones and no digital connectivity, this danger was physical. In the modern age, rebellions, insurrections, revolutions and coup d’états can be organised from mobile

phones with internet access. With that in mind, remember, digital transformation will inevitably come along with digital threats, especially to the state. Further, any shadowy character can start a fire on digital sphere. There is no denying that the digital sphere is sometimes the Wild West with the strangest of humans who advocate unlawful acts against the government and seek to bring harm to the leaders in government. Digital threats to governments also come from within the halls of government; this internal peril is silent and often not detected. State secrets can be procured by hackers outside and inside government. Who would dare argue that the state does have an argument in this debate? In its report, ‘Governing In The Age Of Cyber Threats’, Accenture documented, ’50 times more attacks were launched against government in the past year than in any other industry’. An example of the risk to governments is evident where hackers, criminals or political agent provocateurs send a “phishing” email message to government employees, when workers click on the message; the government computer could be rendered useless until a ransom is paid. This digital criminal practice is known as ‘Ransom ware’. ‘Ransom ware’ can also occur when Ransomers send a government agency a letter threatening to take down the computer system of critical parts of government’s computer system unless money is paid. Cyberwarfare against the state is undeniable. State and nonstate actors are pivoting to this weapon in the age of modern warfare. Examples include massive spying by the United States (US) on other countries reported by Edward Snowden: the National Security Agency (NSA) of the US spied on the German Chancellor Angela Merkel and there is the case of the US also becoming the victim of cyber warfare. The US Office of Personnel Management (OPM) experienced a data breach which was widely attributed to China. Non-state actors engage in cyberwarfare to whip up hatred and attacks on governments, even promoting rebellions to serve narrow political agendas. The Case for Responsible Freedom of Expression The digital sphere is not solely a bad place,it is also a place where law-abiding citizens seek to constructively critique their governments. It is sometimes their only recourse against imperfect government. The digital

sphere should not be demonized, on the basis of actions of bad actors. In Pre-2015 Guyana, beset with an ethnocratic dictatorship, social media was our saviour. When Channel 9 was being threatened by the state and the ‘black clothes’ police swooped down on this news outlet, our only recourse was social media. When ads were withdrawn from the Stabroek News and press freedom was under threat, we sought refuge under the digital sphere. When CNS Channel 6 faced closure and journalists at the Kaieteur News received death threats, it was social media that served as the great push back. Lest we forget, our quiet revolution in 2015 and reclaiming our beloved Guyana from a destructive cabal was driven in large part by social media. When there was inflexible arrogance at the level of the state that came with the politics of ‘we have the ethnic numbers’, many young people used social media to seek redress. As we proceed to address cyber threats, this recent history must play on our minds as we consider policy and legislation. We live in an era where it is near impossible to stop the flow of information. Governments must develop thick skins and defend the right of some critics to make baseless, lawful noise in cyber space, using responsible freedom of speech. THE GRACEFUL BALANCE The graceful legislative posture of balancing national security with fundamental human rights, specifically, freedom of speech, is not easily achieved. The United States, the great bastion of protecting fundamental human rights provides a panoramic view of this difficult task at play. The threat of terrorism in the post-9/11 period, caused the US to renege on its core values that speak to the protection of fundamental human rights. Courts in the US were forced to rule on cases of people being charged with speech-related offences and incitement of violence, all related to terrorism offences. This information serves to highlight the fact that not even the US, has figured out how to perform this difficult, graceful balance. At the end of the day, the legalese that is contained in any legislation to address national security threats from the cyber sphere should be air-tight and the drafters must ensure it cannot be easily exploited by autocrats, dictators and totalitarians.

Man, 60, remanded on ‘drugs’ charge A 60-YEAR -OLD man appeared before a city magistrate on Tuesday and was remanded to prison for possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. It is alleged that on May 7, 2018 at Haslington, East Coast Demerara, Edgar Bollers had in his possession 27Kg, 170 grammes of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. The man pleaded not guilty to the

charge According to the police reports, cops carried out the search at the man’s East Coast Demerara home after receiving a tip-off. The marijuana was reportedly found in large packages in the freezer. Boller was remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and the matter was adjourned to May 29, 2018.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Much improvement on 911 system

WHILE in the last few months the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) and Digicel have been working closer with the police on investigations, acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine believes that there is still room for much improvement between the two companies and the force. Ramnarine expressed the sentiments when quizzed on the performance of the improved 911 emergency system at the Brickdam Police Station, Georgetown. “We have made more progress in the new system,” Ramnarine told the Guyana Chronicle. However, he said while the improvements have been vast, performance is yet to reach 100 per cent, as is usually the case with new arrangements. “I say so because when there is, let’s say a call made using whatever gadget to 911 and you have a clear indication that it is a threat to life and limb or property or to cause public terror for example, it would be very, very important if all the players and this includes the telephone service providers would be on the same page immediately with the same interests and enthusiasm, and unfortunately that has not always been the case and when you wish that an investigation would take five days, it takes longer” Ramnarine told Guyana Chronicle. He explained that these hiccups arise due to some little imperfections in the system and which are currently being addressed by the two phone companies and the administration of the

Guyana Police Force (GPF). As it is now, the chief executive officers of the companies are in constant contact with the GPF. The contact person at the level of the force is Crime Chief Paul Williams. Ramnarine said overall, improvements and progress have been made and the three concerned parties are somewhat happy with the improvements thus far as it relates to the operations of the 911 emergency numbers. “I would want to say that we have improved the level of communication between the two phone companies and we are now in contact with them, since the establishment of the new arrangement things have been working a bit better,” said the top cop. Aside from the 911 emergency system, Ramnarine said the acquisition of the vehicles from the Chinese government has resulted in vast improvements in the delivery of services by the GPF in every division. “I am pleased with the patrolling duties and there have been improvements in response time, visibility and prevention,” Ramnarine explained. He said when it comes to the Police ‘A’ and ‘B’ Divisions, the force has seen tremendous reduction in serious crimes and that has a lot to do with the leaderships in those division who have been re-strategising, retooling, regrouping and have placed a lot of attention on hot spot management. He further stated that while there has been an increase in manpower, there has also been an increase in non-human resources which has been very good.

De Sinco clerk granted bail on fraud charges RAWLE Peters appeared on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on two fraud charges. One allegation is that on February 22, 2018 at Georgetown while being a clerk at De Sinco Limited, Peters fraudulently embezzled $164,000, taken by him in the name of the company. It was further alleged that on February 25, 2018 at Georgetown while being the clerk or servant, Peters fraudulently embezzled $288,000 taken by him in the name of De Sinco Limited. The 33 year-old denied the charges and prosecutor Gordon Mansfield had no objection to bail. The accused was thus granted bail in the sum of $200,000 on the condition that he reports to the CID headquarters every Friday until the matter is closed. The case was adjourned for June 1, 2018.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

BV celebrates 178th Anniversary … President calls on Guyanese to emulate resourcefulness of foreparents PRESIDENT David Granger on Sunday charged Guyanese to become more resourceful and to make the necessary provisions for their future generations as their foreparents

had done for them. Speaking at a thanksgiving service at the Bethel Congregational Church at Beterverwagting, he emphasised the need for people to uphold the four pil-

The Bethel Congregational Church was built by freed Africans who purchased the village of Beterverwagting for $52,000 President David Granger worshipping with the congregation

lars on which villages were established by freed Africans. These are the home, the school, the church and the farm. “They [freed Africans] were thrifty people; they were people with foresight. These were not people who went to school and had Degrees and PhDs. These villages were the cradle of the Guyanese society…knock down the churches, knock down the schools, knock down the homes and knock down the farms and the society will collapse,” the Head of State said. Speaking of the rich legacy that freed Africans has bequeathed to their descendants, the President urged the congregation to “bring your children back into the church because this church has sustained the villages for over 100 years, make sure your children go to school…the farm has to be reactivated…and the home is not

something optional or ornamental, the home is at the heart of every community.” The thanksgiving service was organised by the 8th of May Movement in collaboration with the Bethel Congregational Church to mark the 178th anniversary of Beterverwagting Village. Chairperson of the Triumph/ Beterverwagting 8th of May Movement, Ms. Latecia Stuart said that the freed Africans left a proud history of self-sacrifice, unity and determination for Guyanese to emulate. She said that today’s ceremony is fittingly held at the Bethel Congregational Church, which was built by freed Africans. On May 8, 1940, a group of freed Africans, armed with a wheelbarrow of coins, totalling $52,000, purchased what is now called Beterverwagting Village. (Ministry of the Presidency)

A section of the congregation

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Mahdia gets first ever concrete road

EIGHTY per cent of the roads in Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) were upgraded from laterite roads to concrete structures, built to last for decades. Prior to the completion of the road project, residents had contended with dust pollution and potholes. The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke to some of the residents who are benefitting from this infrastructural upgrade. Lindon Baird, a businessman in Campbelltown, Mahdia, recalled “the pre-

tinued development. “It’s been a project long time in the making and it’s quite a relief to see the results. It has transformed the community. Many persons, in my opinion, could not see the long-term benefit, but a few months into the project, everyone welcomed the change.” Drains and other internal roads were rehabilitated in the region. Other ongoing projects include the rehabilitation/construction

Mahdia resident, Lindon Baird

Ongoing works from Mahdia to the Denham Bridge vious laterite road was very said these new roads are disgusting; the dust in the timely and will definitely dry weather caused a lot of attract investors, create emchaos on our rooftops and ployment and boost regional when it rained it was worse. development. “The road work in MahSo, I’m very thankful for this dia has changed the outlook concrete road.” Another entrepreneur, of [the] community, the resFeroze Khan, observed that idents are very pleased with the new road structure is this development and it fits durable and designed to within line with our vision for stand heavy usage. Mahdia development,” he said. Works on the road comis predominantly a mining menced in 2015 and were community and it is quickly transforming. It is also on the executed in two phases. Hinterland Engineer Jefverge of receiving its townfrey Walcott said amidst the ship status. Deputy Regional Exec- challenges, this achievement utive Officer, Gavin Gunga, serves as a motivation to con-

Remanded on dangerous driving charge

DELLON Dublin was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for causing death by dangerous driving. It is alleged that on May 6, 2018 at Land of Canaan, East Bank of Demerara (EBD), Dublin drove motor vehicle PRR 6380 in a manner dangerous to the public thus causing the death of Garfield McPherson. The 28-year-old man who resides at Anna Catherina denied the charge that was read to him in court. The court was told that on the day of the accident, the defendant was transporting two passengers, Diana McGarrell and McPherson to the city, and in the vicinity of Land of Canaan he reportedly swerved to avoid colliding with another vehicle which was travelling in the opposite direction. Dublin lost control and ended up in a trench. He and the two occupants were subsequently taken to Diamond Diagnostic Centre where McPherson was pronounced dead on arrival. Dublin will return to court on May 24, 2018.

of roads from Mahdia to the Denham Bridge, Eagle Mountain Foot/Stone Hill to Konawaruk Junction (Phase 1) and rehabilitation of Mile 78 to Cassandra Crossing. The sum of $1.5B was allocated in the 2018 budget for road rehabilitation in Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine and 10. These projects represent a fulfilment of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s efforts to boost hinterland development.

Recently completed concrete road in Mahdia

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Linden senior citizens benefit from ‘Adopt a Grand Friend’ initiative

– Discount cards made available, transport bus in the pipeline THE Region 10 arm of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) under the watch of recently appointed Chairman Deron Adams, has embarked on an initiative through which scores of senior citizens residing in Linden are benefitting from Adam’s ‘Adopt a Grand Friend’ programme. The initiative has gathered much support from the corporate community and younger citizens of Linden, who have realised their role in honouring the seniors and assisting them in whatever

From time to time also, the party would embark on hamper distributions across the town and seniors in need would benefit from groceries and other necessities. A transportation fund was also started with a view to purchasing a bus. This bus will assist in taking the seniors to the various clubs, the post office on pension days, to church [and]to the hospital amongst other places. “We have started a vehicle fund because they have complained that transportation has become a difficult

PNCR Region 10 Chairman Deron Adams distributing groceries to elderly residents in Linden way possible to make life for them easier. Being cognisant that several senior citizens have been neglected, are residing alone and are finding it difficult to meet their basic needs as well as independently care for themselves, the party rolled out the initiative to alleviate the challenges facing the senior citizens. One of the biggest achievements of the initiative is the Region 10 Discount Card for senior citizens. “It is about looking after our seniors, getting back to that place where we care for them as young people. The message that I have been sending is that you care for those who once cared for us, [it] is one of the highest honours,” Adams noted. Every senior over 60 years can access the card which allows them to get 5-10 per cent discount from selected stores in the mining town.

thing… persons would fly pass them and so we asked corporate Guyana to donate; Minister [Simona] Broomes (Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources)has already made the first commitment to make a donation… Corporate Supplies will be making a donation,so we are asking other entities to donate towards this bus drive for the elderly,” Adams said. One of the oldest senior citizens’club in Linden, Avenue of the Actively Aging, which is attached to the Vivian Parris Health Centre will be celebrating 20 years of existence. The PNCR Region 10 sponsored a tour to Parika for the 32 elderly members of the club. Making a significant contribution to the tour was Minister Simona Broomes who visited the club over the last two weeks and had interacted with the seniors. She also donated some pillows to them. Every second Thursday of each month the seniors would meet at the Health Centre where they would be engaged in various activities to keep them meaningfully occupied. A week of activities is planned to celebrate the club’s 20th anniversary. PNCR Region 10 is also pushing for the renovation of the Dorfolk Home which is the lone elderly home in Linden. It is currently in a deplorable state but is still be utilised by other clubs such as the Golden Age club.

Members of the Avenue of the Actively Aging Club enjoying a game of dominoes during their tour to Parika on Sunday

Minister Simona Broomes poses with members of the Avenue of the Actively Aging club after interacting with them and distributing pillows

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Bath and Hopetown squatters given one-year permits to continue farming

By Clifford Stanley CASH crop farmers who in 2016 had been warned to stop squatting on lands at Naarstigheid, West Coast Berbice (WCB), have been given one-year leases to

continue farming. They will not be evicted. Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ovid Morrison disclosed that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) which owns the land, had put in place an arrangement to

Signing of the agreement in the boardroom of the Regional Administration. regularise the farmers rather than evict them. He said that of the 13 farmers who had been squatting on the lands, 11 have been given permission to continue farming. Regarding the two who were not granted permission, Morrison explained that one was already occupying two plots in an area owned by GUYSUCO, while the other had said that he had been given a title for the plot of land he had been occupying. He would not be considered until and unless he provides proof of legal ownership Morrison said. The farmers who are beneficiaries of the regularisation of their occupation of the State lands are mainly from the neighbouring Hopetown and Bath Settlement villages. The plot of land lies between the two villages, with Hopetown to the west and Bath Settlement to the east. Addressing the matter during a meeting at the administration’s boardroom, Morrison noted that since his assumption of office in the Region he had observed that Region Five had the most issues based on illegal occupation of land. He told the beneficiaries: “It wasn’t right to go and squat on State land but since agriculture seems to be the lifestyle of this Region we will strive to assist people to maintain their lifestyles.” He stressed: “This administration wants people to develop but it must be done in an organised and disciplined manner.” The REO noted that those granted permission to continue farming on the land were

found to be bona fide farmers; not a few merely holding on to the lands for purposes of renting and sub-letting. The farmers expressed satisfaction that the region would allow them to continue to farm. One veteran cash crop farmer said: “I used to plant at the western end of the land and now I am relocated. This is a good move by the administration. We used to squat but we now get more security with the land.” A young farmer in the area, Mark Lalbeharry, said: “Now we get a paper we get more security. It’s better than before.” A veteran cash crop farmer from Hopetown said: “I think the arrangement is fine. We were here before. To be honest we were scared to cultivate much. Now things have changed we know what we can do and what we cannot do, and we will comply with the rules.” Some of the terms and conditions that the former squatters have agreed to, state that the permit requires a year to year renewal and is non-transferrable; there will be no cultivation of long term crops, just cash crops; no animals to be kept on their plots; no construction of permanent structures such as houses, although a moveable camp site is permitted, and no sub-letting or selling of their plots. The farmers were told that those who breach any of these conditions can be evicted with three months’ notice. The administration assisted them in moving large trees and other heavy undergrowth on their allocated plots.

Some of the beneficiaries during the onsite allocation with REO Ovid Morrison fourth from left.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Tucker hoping to cash in big for CMRC round 1 By Stephan Sookram WITH the first leg of the Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) set for this weekend in Jamaica, one rider is looking to make his name known among his rivals. He is Raverio Tucker and he is aboard a Yamaha R6 as part of team Guyana

that will invade the Jamwest Motorsport Park in Negril. Speaking to Chronicle Sport, Tucker, who will be making his maiden tour, contended that he has been doing a lot of preplanning for one of the longest circuits in the calendar. “Well, I’ve been looking at a lot of videos of guys who have done times around the circuit and I’ve

had some overhead views of it, but it’s not the same as practice.” “From what I’ve heard, the containers are already there, so it means when I get in tomorrow [Thursday], then we can get some much needed seat time to learn the track properly.” “All in all, I’m not fazed by what I see; I think it is actually a fun track by the

looks of it and I’m just glad to be mixing it up with the best of the racers from Jamaica and Trinidad.” His sponsors, he noted, are Exxon Mobil, the Track, Rams logistics, El Dorado offshore, Palm Court, BM soat, Samaroo Investments, Rid-o-Pests, A&R Jiwanram Printery, ReadyMix Concrete and E-zone.

GFF host successful ‘Kool Kidz’ Grassroots Outreach

OVER 50 children from the Roxanne Burnham Gardens/South Ruimveldt and surrounding areas participated in the second of a series of Guyana Football Federation (GFF) “Kool Kidz” Grassroots Outreach held on Sunday. The session was held

under the supervision of the GFF’s Technical Development Officers and Youth Development Officers respectively from 11:00hrs at the Roxanne Burnham Gardens Square. The children were engaged in fun activities, which introduced them to “the beauti-

ful game”, as part of a partnership between the GFF and the Guyana Beverages Company Inc., to provide constructive activities for children in vulnerable communities. Martin King, a participant, said he “had fun and learned how to shoot pen-

alty and defend,” while another participant, Nicolas Nuella, said he made friends at the session. The next schedule for the Grassroots Outreach is St. Phillips Green on the May 19, for the children in the Leopold Street and surrounding areas.

Mushtaq to coach Windies spinners for a month

LEGENDARY Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed has signed on to be the Windies spin bowling coach for a month. The 47-year-old leg spinner, who claimed 185 Test and 161 ODI wickets, is expected to join up with the West Indies squad later this month as the team begins preparation to face Sri Lanka in an upcoming home series. Prior to being appointed to the post, Ahmed worked in coaching positions with

the Pakistan Super League, Indian Premier League, Surrey as well as the English Cricket Board . The former spinner served as a bowling consultant to the England team for six years, a very successful period which saw the team win the T20 World Cup and multiple Ashes. Although the position

will start off as a one-month stint reports indicate that it could become a permanent one at a later date. The retired bowler expressed delight at the prospect of linking up with the Caribbean team. “It’s a privilege to work with West Indies cricket team. A team with a very rich history of class, commitment and sheer domi-

nance in the cricket world. The talent from this part of the world has been exceptional and I am quite excited to work with them,” Ahmed said. In February Cricket West Indies (CWI) appointed former South Africa and Somerset fast bowler Alfonso Thomas as the bowling coach of the men’s side.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

The flawed genius of the great Lothar Matthäus

36 Days to go …

ITH only five minutes of the 1990 Wo r l d C u p final to play, Rudi Völler was fouled in the box by Roberto Sensini and the Mexican referee dramatically pointed to the spot. All eyes turned to Lothar Matthäus, West Germany captain and scorer of the winning penalty against Czechoslovakia in the quarter-finals, as he approached Andreas Brehme rather than the ball.

must have been a twinge of regret for Matthäus. He had lost faith in himself at the crucial moment. Perhaps that is why Matthäus is not as fondly remembered by German football fans as some other legends of Die Mannschaft. It is hard to imagine Franz Beckenbauer losing confidence in himself. It is hard to imagine Gerd Müller passing up the chance to score in a World Cup final. Nobody can ever question Matthäus’ commitment

Lothar Matthäus in 1990 Arrogant, impulsive, and to the national team. In self-centred, it was unlike appearing at five different Matthäus to pass up his mo- World Cup tournaments, ment in the limelight. It later he equalled a record set by transpired that the boots he Mexico goalkeeper Antonio had used for the last four Carbajal. He remained availyears had lost a stud in the able for selection long after semi-final against England, his peak, finally bringing his and he felt ill-equipped to international career to an end convert the spot-kick. after Germany’s ignominious Matthäus trusted Brehme Euro 2000 exit. He was 39. to score. The two had played After he was restricted together at Bayern Munich to cameo appearances at and then at Inter, and Mat- Euro 1980 and the 1982 thäus has since described World Cup, it was a move to Brehme as the best he ever Bayern Munich which gave played with. Even so, as Matthäus the attention he Brehme struck the ball into craved. He was the team’s the bottom left corner of Ser- top scorer in three of his four gio Goycochea’s net, there seasons at the Olympias-

tadion as Bayern won three consecutive Bundesliga titles which he considered his “breakthrough”. He scored the winner against Morocco in the last 16 as Franz Beckenbauer’s team went all the way to the final, where Matthäus was tasked with marking Diego Maradona. “That was a mistake of Franz Beckenbauer, I think,” said Matthäus. “I concentrated on Maradona, but we neglected our own game. When they went 2-0 up we changed it around, Karl-Heinz Förster was put on Maradona, I went forward more and we got back to 2-2. Then we made a dumb mistake and lost.” It’s a wonder the Estadio Azteca could contain the combined egos of Matthäus and Maradona. “He is the best rival I’ve ever had. I guess that’s enough to define him,” wrote Maradona in his book ‘I am the Diego’, almost (but not quite) affording the German as much credit as he reserved for himself. Matthäus captained West Germany to the semi-finals of Euro 1988 before he departed for Inter. 25 goals in his first two seasons at the club showed that the change of league had not affected him. When Italia ’90 came around, Matthäus said it was “like playing a World Cup at home”. Matthäus must have known he was in for a good tournament the moment the draw was made. West Germany were to play all of their group games at the San Siro, where Matthäus played his club football alongside Brehme and Jürgen Klinsmann. 13 of Germany’s 15 goals at the tournament were scored by Serie A-based players. Matthäus’ two goals in Germany’s 4-1 win over Yugoslavia was his first and only brace for the national team. “It was the best game of my Germany career,” he said. Another goal against the UAE eased Germany through to the knockout stages, where Klinsmann and

Lothar Matthäus - £900k to Bayern Munich in 1984 and he became one of the most successful players of all time! Brehme scored in the last 16 win over the Netherlands. Matthäus’ quarter-final penalty confirmed a last four meeting with England in Turin – Germany’s first match outside of Milan. Matthäus had a quiet game, but scored in the shootout as Germany set up a repeat of the 1986 final. It was the most cynical final until 2010, and at least that one ended with a well-worked goal. Thankfully B r e h m e ’s p e n a l t y spared the crowd another 30 minutes. Brehme may have stolen the headlines, but Matthäus’ contributions were not forgotten. He was named German footballer-of-the-year and European footballer-of-

the-year, as well as winning the Ballon d’Or by a huge margin. His most prolific season ever followed in 1990/91, as he scored 23 goals in all competitions. A ligament injury ruled him out of Euro 1992 and ended his time in Italy. He returned to Bayern and won four more league titles despite never scaling his previous heights. The Champions League was the only major trophy to elude him, with Manchester United’s 1999 comeback denying him that honour. Asked in 2000 why he was still playing, Matthäus at first spoke like an excitable child. “I like football. It’s fun winning the ball from someone, it’s fun shooting at goal, it’s fun hitting a ball over

60 metres that arrives,” he said, almost endearingly. And then the kicker: “And if you don’t play, you don’t get attention.” Attention! It often seemed to be Lothar Matthäus’ motivation for playing the game. When he retired he went straight into management, lest he should leave the spotlight for a moment and be forgotten. But after ten years and seven jobs, he packed it in – because he wasn’t getting enough attention from German clubs. “In other countries they treat idols differently and I am an idol in Germany,” said Matthäus, humble as ever. “Germany should be ashamed of the way it treats such an idol.” With the arrogance to declare himself an idol, yet the frailty to lose his nerve in a World Cup final, Matthäus really was a flawed genius. No wonder Maradona liked him so much.

Diego Maradona and Lothar Matthäus before the 1990 World Cup Final

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Limited overs tour of England

Paine and Finch to share Australia captaincy duties MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Cricket Australia said yesterday that Test skipper Tim Paine will also captain the one-day international team during next month’s tour of England, but selectors are yet to decide who will lead the side’s title defence at the 2019

World Cup. Paine was named skipper of a 15-man squad for the five-match series, Australia’s first since the ball-tampering scandal which led to lengthy bans for former Test and ODI captain Steve Smith, his deputy David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft.

Selectors have installed Aaron Finch as the ODI team’s vice-captain in place of the disgraced Warner and named the Victorian as captain of the Twenty20 side also released yesterday. Australia will play five one-dayers and a T20 match against England from June 13

to 27, a warmup for the global tournament in the same country next year, before heading to Zimbabwe for a T20 tri-series against the host nation and Pakistan starting on July 1.

has been included in the ODI squad but Paine will retain the gloves in England. The squad features an uncapped player in D’Arcy Short, a left-handed opener who im-

Tim Paine is the ODI captain

Aaron Finch is the T20 captain

“Tim is a strong leader and will captain the side for this series, supported by Aaron,” selector Trevor Hohns said in a media release. “A decision on a permanent one-day captain will be made in due course.” Smith led Australia across all three formats but there are concerns that such a burden could be too heavy for wicketkeeper Paine, who was hurried in as a replacement for Smith as Test captain after the ball-tampering scandal broke during the third Test of the South Africa tour. South Australia’s Alex Carey, a wicketkeeper batsman,

pressed in his debut T20I series against New Zealand in February, while Test spinner Nathan Lyon has been recalled for the first time since 2016. “England potentially have a number of lefthanders in their side and we look forward to seeing what (Lyon) can produce with the white-ball in English conditions,” said Hohns. Australia will be without leading pacemen Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, who were injured during the calamitous series in South Africa and are not expected back until the Test tour against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Josh Hazlewood will instead lead a rookie pace battery which includes Kane Richardson, Jhye Richardson, Andrew Tye and Billy Stanlake. The Twenty20 squad also features a pair of uncapped players, with Queensland all-rounder Jack Wildermuth and his spin bowling team mate Mitchell Swepson. Swepson, who was a surprise inclusion in Australia’s Test squad for the tour of India last year but never played, replaces fellow leg-spinner Adam Zampa. Hard-hitting batsman Nic Maddinson returns to the T20I frame for the first time in four years, with Carey appointed the squad’s vice-captain. ODI SQUAD: Tim Paine (captain), Aaron Finch, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Nathan Lyon, Glenn Maxwell, Shaun Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye. T20 SQUAD: Aaron Finch (captain), Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Andrew Tye, Jack Wildermuth.

Cavaliers beat Raptors to reach Eastern Conference finals

LeBron James scored 29 points and registered eight rebounds and 11 assists in Cleveland’s victory

LeBron James scored 29 points as Cleveland Cavaliers secured a 4-0 series win over Toronto Raptors and ensure their place in the NBA Eastern Conference finals. Cleveland beat the number one seeds 128-93 to set up a meeting with either Boston or Philadelphia. It is the third consecutive

year that Cleveland have beaten Toronto in the playoffs. “We had a lot of challenges, but we had a great game plan,” James said. Toronto coach Dwane Casey described his team as “emotionally drunk after game one and game three”. “I thought we could

bounce back, but we didn’t,” he added. Cleveland will play either Boston Celtics or Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference finals. Boston could have completed a 4-0 series win over Philadelphia, but the 76ers registered a 103-92 win to set up a fifth game today. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Rahane to lead India against in historic Test with Afghanistan MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - Ajinkya Rahane will lead India against Afghanistan, who play their maiden Test in Bengaluru in June, in the absence of regular captain Virat Kohli, the country’s cricket board (BCCI) said yesterday. Kohli will represent Surrey in June after signing a one-month contract with the English county side to prepare for the Test series against England later this year. He will return to lead India in the limited-overs series in Ireland in June before they head to England for three T20 internationals, three ODIs and a five-Test series starting in August.

Afghanistan will play their inaugural Test match from June 14 in Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The South Asian country and Ireland joined the ranks of full member nations of the International Cricket Council (ICC) last year, taking the total number of Test-playing countries to 12. India also decided to manage the workloads of other Test regulars, opting to rest batsman Rohit Sharma and pace duo Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah for the Afghanistan Test. Batsman Karun Nair, seamer Shardul Thakur and left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav were drafted in. Thakur is yet to play in

the five-day format for India. The world’s top-ranked Test side last played the longest format in January

Ajinkya Rahane

in South Africa, where they lost a hard-fought three-Test series 2-1. Uncapped medium-pacer Siddarth Kaul made it into both India’s T20 and 50-

Guardiola lauds Yaya Toure’s Manchester City career …’One of the most important players in history’

YAYA Toure is set to play his final game at the Etihad Stadium when City take on Brighton and Hove Albion in today’s English Premier League clash. Subsequently, he ends an eight-year stint at the club where he won three EPL titles, two League Cups, one FA Cup and a Community Shield. And the Spaniard has hailed him for his impact in helping to place City in the spotlight. “Tomorrow is his last game at the Etihad stadium,” Guardiola said in his pre-match briefing. “We will try and play for him and win for him. “Yaya is part of the club, not just because of the trophies he has won but because he transmitted to everyone the club can be bigger and greater. “He is beloved, he is calm, he loves football and I’m very pleased with the success he has had. “The footballers made the club bigger and bigger and bigger. He is one of the most important players in the whole history. “He helped this club step forward hopefully we can play

a good game and dedicate it to him.” Toure’s final season at the club saw him restricted to cameo appearances - having only nine substitute appearances under his belt in City’s Premier League title-winning campaign.

won, he was so, so important. “We will not judge Yaya on this season. Maybe I was wrong with my decisions. He needs to be judged on his whole career. He is a player with a huge personality. He doesn’t feel the pressure, he loves to play football.

Coach Pep Guardiola (left) with Yaya Toure

But Guardiola, who also coached Toure at Barcelona before he left for the Manchester outfit in 2010, talked up his influence within the team. “Yaya is great in the locker room with the old guys and young guys,” he said. “He deserves the respect from the other ones, no doubt. “He came from the [Roberto] Mancini era, after Manuel [Pellegrini], and the things they

“I took the decision this season on what I saw every day in the training sessions. “He is the only guy last season who finished his contract who we extended because I thought he could help us. “I wish him well. I hope he stays in world football.”Toure featured in 229 leagues games, scoring 59 times since he moved from Spain in 2010.

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Friendship Secondary beat Soesdyke by 38 runs ACTION in the 2017/2018 National Secondary Schools Cricket League continued with Friendship Secondary beating Soesdyke Secondary by 38 runs at the GNIC ground in Woolford Avenue. The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited and National Sports Commission-sponsored tournament saw the Friendship side bat first after winning the toss. They made 114 all out off 16.3 overs of their allotted 30 thanks to middle-order batsman Adrian Lim who top-scored with 40 while Rondel Kaltow was the only other batsman to reach double figures on 12. In reply, Soesdyke stumbled for a meagre 76 off 14.3 overs. Lower-order batsman Noel Henry was the only Soesdyke player to reach double figures with 17. Bowling for Friendship, Rondel Kaltow had excellent returns of 4 for 7 from just 3 overs, while Damion Smith and Jonathan Jagdeo grabbed 3 for 26 and 2 for 20 respectively. Friendship won by 38 runs.

over sides for the tour of Ireland and England after impressive performances for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Batsmen Lokesh Rahul and Ambati Rayudu were also rewarded with spots in the ODI side after strong showings in the IPL. I n d i a Te s t s q u a d against Afghanistan: Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Murali Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara,

Karun Nair, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma, Shardul Thakur India T20 squad against Ireland and England: Virat Kohli (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Lokesh Rahul, Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sund-

ar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Siddarth Kaul, Umesh Yadav India ODI squad against England: Virat Kohli (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Lokesh Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni, Dinesh Karthik, Yu z v e n d r a C h a h a l , Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Siddarth Kaul, Umesh Yadav.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Mohamed seals big World XI squad to play win for Everest Masters Windies in charity game complete A SWASHBUCKLING innings of 76 from Saheed Mohamed gave the Everest Masters a comfortable 64-run victory over Albion Masters on Indian Arrival Day in Georgetown. The friendly T20 match, which was contested at the Everest Cricket Club ground in observance of Arrival Day on May 5 saw the hosts win the toss and bat first in cool conditions. Mohamed muscled his way to the only half-century of the match, hitting seven towering sixes and four welltimed fours. On the wicket which was two-paced, Mohamed was supported by Basil Persaud with 17 and Rakesh Gangaran and Ronald Jaisingh who scored 14 runs each as the home team ended on 153 for 8 from their 20 overs. Veeren Moonsammy rolled back the years to return brilliant figures of 4-23 bowling for Albion Masters. In their turn at the crease, the visitors were

Everest Masters captain Rajesh Singh (left) collects the winners’ trophy from his opposite number, Anil Beharry, in the presence of man-of-the-match Saheed Mohamed (right).

held up by some tidy and steady bowling from the Everest Masters, especially the opening bowlers, Ronald Jaisingh and Rajesh Singh, who shared eight overs, conceded 28 runs and picked up two wickets. The Berbicians never recovered from the ordinary start and were eventually bowled out for 89 from 19 overs. Former senior Berbice inter-county player, Randolph Latcha, hit a six and two fours in the top score of 31 in a losing cause. Rakesh Gangaram and Rohan Sarjoo were the leading Everest Masters bowlers with two wickets each for 15 and 23 runs respectively. Saheed Mohamed was adjudged man-of-the-match. Since 2018 started, Everest Masters have shown consistency winning eight of their 10 matches to date. Trophies for the day’s event were sponsored by the Trophy Stall of Bourda Market.

India decline day-night Test in Adelaide

The Adelaide Oval

England captain Eoin Morgan.

THE World XI squad down to play against the Windies in a one-off T20I match at Lord’s on May 31 is now complete. The last players for the squad to play in a fundraiser to help repair stadia in the Caribbean damaged by hurricanes last year were the New Zealand pair of Luke Ronchi and Michell McClenaghan. The team is to be led by England limited overs skipper, Eoin Morgan, and includes Indians, Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik, Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal, Sri Lanka’s Thisara Perera, as well as Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. Morgan is excited about the melting pot of players and expects a blockbuster game against one of the best T20 teams in the world. “It’s a great honour to be leading a side which has a selection of players from a number of nations, and I can’t wait to get on to the field for what promises to be an engrossing contest,” said Morgan. “It is all for a worthy cause and it feels really good to see so many cricketers from different countries come together for such a reason. To be playing a match which will see some of the very best in action together is a matter of great pride for me. I’m looking forward to seeing a packed house at Lord’s, supporting the relief effort, and an exciting game of cricket,” said Ronchi. The Windies have also put together a powerful side. The ICC World T20 champions are being led by Carlos Brathwaite but also have powerhouses in Marlon Samuels, Samuel Badree, Andre Russell, and Chris Gayle. Tickets for the game are already available and can be bought at https://tickets.lords.org/. All proceeds will go towards rebuilding five cricket venues in the Caribbean, the Ronald Webster Park in Anguilla, the Sir Viv Richards Stadium in Antigua, the Windsor Park Stadium in Dominica, the Carib Lumber Ball Park in St Maarten, and the Cancryn Cricket Ground in St Thomas. World XI squad: Eoin Morgan (captain, England), Dinesh Karthik (India), Mitchell McClenaghan (New Zealand), Hardik Pandya (India), Thisara Perera (Sri Lanka), Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Luke Ronchi (New Zealand), Shahid Afridi (Pakistan), Shoaib Malik (Pakistan), Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh), Tamim Iqbal (Bangladesh) Windies Squad: Samuel Badree, Carlos Brathwaite (Captain), Rayad Emrit, Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Rovman Powell, Denesh Ramdin (Wicketkeeper), Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, and Kesrick Williams. The World XI will be led by England captain Eoin Morgan. CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday May 09, 2018)

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - India have declined to play their maiden day-night Test against Australia, leaving the series-opener in Adelaide a day match, Cricket Australia confirmed yesterday. The Australian board had hoped India would agree to a floodlit match for the December 6-10 Test at Adelaide Oval, where the home side have beaten England, South

Africa and New Zealand in pink-ball matches over the past three home summers. “We can confirm that we have received advice from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that it is not prepared to participate in a proposed day-night Test in Adelaide this summer,” Cricket Australia said in a statement. “As a result, we can now confirm the Test match will

be a day format.” Most established Test-playing nations have competed in the new format, but India remains a hold-out. A series-opener under lights against experienced pink ball cricketers Australia would have been a tough introduction to the tour for Virat Kohli’s side, however. South Africa were also initially reluctant to play their 2016 Test under lights

at Adelaide, fearing the hosts would have an unfair advantage. They duly lost by seven wickets. After Adelaide, Australia will host India in traditional day Tests, in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. Australia have schedu l e d a d a y - n i g h t Te s t against Sri Lanka in Brisbane during their twomatch series starting in January.

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) Rising Pune Supergiants (2) Krunal Pandya (MI) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many WI players have been voted ‘Man of the Series’ in IPL cricket to date? (2) How many Australians have won the ‘Man of the Series Award’ in IPL cricket to date? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Shimron Hetmyer

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – West Indies’ batting group began their preparation in earnest for the Sri Lanka series, with the start of a five-day camp here yesterday. Vice-captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who has emerged as the Caribbean’s leading batsman in recent times, is among nine current Test players who will be involved in the camp at the UWI Cave Hill Campus, under the guidance of West Indies A coach Floyd Reifer. Left-hander Devon

Windies batsmen begin five-day camp ahead of Sri Lanka Tests Smith, who played the last of his 38 Tests three years ago, has also been included along with Windies A wicketkeeper/batsman, Jahmar Hamilton. Following the end of the camp next weekend, the main camp involving the provisional squad for the Sri Lanka series, will bowl off at UWI. Head coach Stuart Law will oversee proceedings. The batting camp sees the return of Windward Islands right-hander Sunil Ambris who was forced out of

the New Zealand series last December with a broken arm. Ambris, 25, had a disastrous Test debut against the Black Caps, trodding on his stumps to the first ball he faced in the opening Test in Wellington. He astonishingly stepped on his stumps again in the first innings of the second Test in Hamilton before being forced to retire hurt in the second innings, after taking a blow to the arm from aggressive pacer Neil Wagner. As expected, Shai Hope

WIFBSC 2018

Preparations for Long and Short Range titles defence almost complete - Fields Sunil Ambris

features in the camp, along with Roston Chase, Kieran Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Jermaine Blackwood, Raymon Reifer and wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich. West Indies will take on Sri Lanka in three Tests which run from June 6-27, with matches set for Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in St Lucia and Kensington Oval in Barbados. The final Test at the Oval will be an historic day/night affair.

Buttler helps Royals claim much-needed win

RAJASTHAN Royals climbed off the foot of the Indian Premier League(IPL) table with a 15-run victory over thirdplaced Kings XI Punjab. KL Rahul made an unbeaten 95 but found little support from his Kings XI colleagues, meaning they fell comfortably short in their attempts to overhaul Rajasthan’s total of 158-8 in Jaipur. Indeed, Marcus Stoinis (11) was the only other player to reach double figures in a Kings XI innings that never recovered from the early loss of Chris Gayle. They finished on 143-7 even with 16 runs coming off the last over, opener Rahul hitting a six and two fours as he posted his high-

est score in the Twenty20 competition. Jos Buttler had earlier led the way with 82 for Rajasthan, who remain in the hunt to reach the play-offs after posting their fourth win of the campaign. CALLING THE SHOTS While he failed to reach double figures during his time at the crease, managing just nine from 10 deliveries, Ajinkya Rahane did make a crucial contribution to his team’s triumph. The Royals captain boldly opted to bat first after winning the toss at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, a policy that immediately paid off when opening partner Buttler lunched an onslaught in the

powerplay overs. The England international registered a third successive half-century since his promotion to the top of the order, hitting a solitary six and nine fours in his 58ball knock. However, from 82-2 at the halfway stage, Rajasthan struggled in the second half of their innings. Sanju Samson made 22 but Andre Tye (4-34) claimed three wickets in the final over to help restrict the hosts, albeit their final score always looked competitive. A POSITIVE SPIN Krishnappa Gowtham (2-12) spun Kings XI’s reply into early trouble, including claiming the prized scalp of Gayle for one thanks to

some smart work by Buttler, who pulled off a leg-side stumping to dismiss the big-hitting left-hander. Skipper Ravichandran Ashwin’s move up the order failed to pay off as he was bowled for a two-ball duck in the same Gowtham over. Ish Sodhi also starred for the Royals on a sluggish surface, the New Zealand leg-spinner recording excellent figures of 1-14 from his four-over spell. Pace on the ball proved more beneficial to the batsmen yet Jofra Archer delivered a succession of yorkers in a 17th over that crucially only leaked four runs, leaving even the in-form Rahul with too much to do in the closing stages.

Dylan Fields

PREPARATIONS ahead for the defence of their respective Long and Short Range titles at the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Championships (WIFBSC) is almost complete ahead of this year ’s championships which will be hosted in the land of the ‘Flying Fish’ at the Paragon Ranges, Christ Church, Barbados from May 20 next. Vice-captain of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Fullbore section, Dylan Fields, has disclosed that practice sessions have been going well over the past few months and he is very pleased with the way things have been progressing Fields stated that adjustments would have had to be made to the team set-up given the sickness and recovery of Fullbore captain Mahendra Persaud who is on the mend following a brief period of illness. “But what I am seeing with the team is positive and the morale is quite high at the moment. We have been shooting all ranges in the last few months but we have been

doing team match simulations for the past two weeks.” Fields also disclosed that there is one more session remaining, based on the preparation plan and that is set for this Sunday at the Timehri Rifle Ranges. Meanwhile, the GuyanaNRA fundraising raffle is set to be drawn this Saturday at the Industrial Safety Supplies Inc. compound, 226 Camp Street, Georgetown. The raffle was originally set to be drawn on April 7 but the association decided to extend the time to this Saturday, persons who would have purchased tickets are asked to take note. The following prizes are to be won: 1st (one 125cc motorcycle – Jailing Guyana), 2nd (one 8HP outboard engine – Crown Mining Supplies), 3rd (one 50″ flat screen TV – Industrial Safety Supplies), 4th (one refrigerator – Queensway Security) along with ten (10) consolations prizes. Modern Optical Service contributed towards printing of the raffle books.

Tucker hoping to cash in big for CMRC Round 1 See Page 26

Mushtaq to coach Windies spinners for a month GFF host successful ‘Kool Kidz’ Grassroots Outreach Raverio Tucker stands with his bike and a GMRSC Marshal

See Page 26

Participants of the GFF Kool Kidz Grassroots Outreach in Roxanne Burnham Gardens.

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See Page 26

Legendary Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2018