Kaieteur News

Online readership yesterday 95,043

January 22, 2013 - Vol. 6 No. 04 - Price $80

Email: kaieteurnews@yahoo.com Online: http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Parliament's special committee to investigate drugs purchases in detail …APNU alarmed by Ministers' cover-up of $90M storage payments More haste?

The drivers for these two vehicles escaped serious injuries following an accident Sunday afternoon at the corner of Duncan and Middleton Streets.

Constabulary officer Govt. to use police stabbed, foils break to enforce use of market tarmacs and enter attempt

Poor accounting… MPs threaten to stop $3M

subvention to NDCs until compliance

Page 2

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Parliament’s special committee to investigate drugs purchases in detail …APNU alarmed by Ministers’ cover-up of $90M storage payments Parliament’s largest Opposition group, A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) says it will be asking a special committee to investigate Government’s decision to unfairly grant one company billions of dollars in drugs contracts under unclear circumstances.

For years, one company was consistently grabbing up the contracts with other importers now breaking their silence saying that they were sidelined but will no longer keep quiet.

In early 2010, the Cabinet of Ministers, under former President Bharrat Jagdeo, made a decision to allow New GPC, a company with which he reportedly has close ties, to be granted hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts.

It was the same year that New GPC may have failed to deliver $222M in drugs.

Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which examines the Auditor General’s annual report on how state funds are spent,

was told last week that attempts are now being made… two years later… to determine how much drugs the New GPC did not deliver.

New GPC, through its principal, Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop, in recent months has attacked the independent media houses Kaieteur News and Stabroek News. Kaieteur News, especially, has been sued several times for hundreds of millions of dollars by New GPC for questioning the contracts.

Over the weekend, International Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA), a private drugs importer, claimed that it was sidelined and that Government may have deviated from procurement procedures in not allowing New GPC to lodge a performance bond, equivalent to about 10 per cent of the contract price, which would allow for a recouping of monies should the contract develop problems.

Health officials have admitted that they took no

APNU’s MP, Joe Harmon action to sanction New GPC. There were more shocking disclosures of how the company may have unfairly benefitted.

Not only was New GPC granted billions of dollars in contracts under unclear circumstances, but it was paid more than $90M between late 2007 and the end of December 2012 for storing the same drugs it was ordered to deliver.

When questions about measures made to secure these drugs at the New GPC

New GPC’s owner, Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop

Former President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Former Health Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

compound at the former Sanata Complex, Industrial Site, surfaced, Members of Parliament for the Opposition expressed alarm.

According to APNU y e s t e r d a y, i t i s d e e p l y concerned “at the callous manner in which the administration continues to d i s t r i b u t e t h e n a t i o n ’s assets to persons who are favorites of the administration.”

APNU’s Joe Harmon said the recent revelations from the PAC concerning the vast sums of money spent on drugs by the Ministry of Health are nothing short of scandalous.

“A recent report of the Public Accounts Committee meeting indicated that contract for the supply of drugs was given to New GPC in 2010 on a single source

authorization by the Cabinet of Guyana. Monies for this contract were paid in advance. New GPC did not deliver $222M worth of drugs in 2010 yet this entity was awarded approximately $1B worth of contracts in 2011.”

Harmon was heavily critical of the decision to allow New GPC to store drugs on its premises.

Government has been claiming that it lacks storage space for drugs.

The secret $90-plus million payments only came to light last week after health officials admitted that New GPC was paid for the storage.

Government Ministers and New GPC, in attempting to justify the company’s suitability for being awarded drug contracts, have been saying that one of the main factors in using them was

because of the free storage.

APNU said that it has taken note of the government officials’ statements on television defending New GPC and the false claim of free storage, despite clearly knowing that $1.5M was being paid for the services per month.

“In view of these recent revelations by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), APNU calls for a halt to this hemorrhaging of the Nation’s finances and that a criminal investigation be conducted into the matter.

In the meantime all of these single sourced contracts issued for the supply of drugs by the Ministry of Health should be placed under the urgent microscope of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).”

Remains and medical waste are being dumped openly posing a health hazard to residents of Red Village on the Essequibo Coast, the Alliance for Change (AFC) stated yesterday.

Chairman Nigel Hughes displayed photos of human bones and other biological waste, such as bloodied galls, which an AFC team discovered yesterday.

Red Village was

established with the help of Food for the Poor a few years ago. Hughes said that in the past two years, the medical waste started being dumped right next to the village of about 1, 000 persons. In fact, he said there is a sign pointing to the spot as the Suddie Hospital dumpsite.

Valerie Lowe, a Parliamentarian with the AFC, said that her main concern was the children of the area,

who play with the used syringes that sometimes fall from the dump truck.

Hughes said that the dumpsite is not fenced and there appears to be no efforts to bury the waste.

The AFC would be reporting the matter to the Pan American Health Organisation, which requires strict controls in the dumping of medical waste.

According to Hughes, residents complained that sometimes dogs would scavenge the dump and take some of the waste back to the village. He said that the authorities in Guyana are aware of the problem and have done nothing since the matter was reported in the press. Hughes described the situation as appalling, saying it is in violation of the country’s environmental laws and laws governing waste disposal.

He said that the community has expressed fear that the fluids from the waste could seep into the water table and contaminate water they have to use.

AFC alarmed over dumping of medical waste on the Essequibo Coast

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 3

Constabulary officer stabbed, foils break and enter attempt A City Constabulary officer is counting his lucky stars after being wounded by bandits who attempted to break into a Bourda Market stall early yesterday morning.

Constable Samuel Scotland is in a stable condition, nursing a single stab wound to his upper right chest at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The 33-year-old Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara resident, was caught off guard when he walked into an ongoing robbery during his regular patrol of the premises at Bourda Green. Scotland told Kaieteur News that around 2:30hours he was making his regular rounds of the market when he heard a noise emanating from one of the stalls. “I hear de noise and I say that ain’t sound like no cat or no rat. I say it sound like somebody doing something on a roof.”

Scotland said he then proceeded to the area from where he heard the noise and saw a man standing on top of the stall when he shone his torchlight. The rank said he raised an alarm while his eyes remained fixed on the man on the roof. During this time, Scotland said he assumed that the assailant could not have seen him as the man kept looking around.

“He keep looking around and peeping to see wheh I deh, but he couldn’t see me cause I stay in de corner,”

Scotland said. “But den he jump down on de same side where I was and same time I lash he wit de piece of wood I had.”

Scotland recalled that his attacker fell to the ground so he quickly sought to make an arrest. But in doing so, the Constable said that the man got up and a scuffle ensued.

It was during that time that Scotland said he noticed the man pull something shiny from his waist and “fire a bore.” The officer said he pulled away and his assailant took off running.

Scotland said he did not give up there as he took off running after the robber. His chase was however fruitless because the man managed to escape. Another man was however caught hiding in the grocery stall. By the time Scotland said he returned to the targeted stall, his colleagues had already come to his aid.

The Constable however told Kaieteur News that it was not until 15 minutes after being wounded that he realized it. The Constable said he returned to the Constabulary’s headquarters and then he noticed that his shirt was soaked in blood.

The officer was immediately taken to the hospital where he was admitted.

Rupdeo Umrao is however thankful to Constable Scotland for his

vigilance and wishes the officer a speedy recovery. He said Scotland was able to prevent the bandits from taking anything from his 225226 grocery stall. Umrao said that he received a phone call around 5:00hours yesterday from members of the constabulary informing him about the incident.

He said that he went down to the Constabulary headquarters and was led to the stall where he noticed that the persons had attempted entry through the roof. The man said the zinc was raised and the crooks had removed the ceiling boards to get in.

In his 25 years of business, Umrao said he was

Kevin Waterman

Deceased: June Osborne

continuation of the case. It is however alleged that Waterman shot to death the deceased outside her home at Burnham Drive, Silvertown, Wismar, Linden in an alleged love triangle.

Dennis Wharton is charged that he murdered Osborne between November 10 and November 14, 2006. His lawyer, Sonya Parag, made an application for a probation report to be presented.

The matter is being heard

by Justice Roxanne GeorgeWiltshire who upheld the lawyer’s request after State

prosecutors Rhondel Weever and Natasha Backer had no objection.

That matter will be called again on February 7 for the report and sentencing.

The bloated and partly decomposed body of 42year-old June Osborne was found in a drain at the back of her Lot A 64 East La Penitence Squatting Area home in 2006.

The woman’s left arm was completely severed; she had a wound behind the neck and abrasions about the body. Her home was also ransacked.

The injured constable: Samuel Scotland

Two plead guilty in new High Court murder cases

Two murder accused pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter when their trials were called up at the High Court yesterday.

Kevin Waterman who is charged with the murder of Eleanor Jones, and Dennis Wharton who is charged for the death of June Osborne, will both have their matters called again in February for probation reports and sentencing.

Former Police Constable Waterman is charged that between July 7 and July 8, 2007 he murdered Jones who was also a member of the police force.

When Justice Navindra Singh inquired of the accused, he told the court that he was guilty of the offence of manslaughter.

Prosecutor Konyo Thompson and Dhanika Singh held the matter on behalf of the state.

They had no objection when Defence Lawyer George Thomas requested a probation report into the matter.

Thomas also requested to make a plea of mitigation on behalf of his client.

The parties will return to court on February 11 for the

Rupdeo Umrao in his stall that was broken into robbed once before.

Chief Constabulary Officer, Andrew Foo, told Kaieteur News that one man is in custody and as investigations continue, the identity of the other assailant would soon be revealed. The senior rank said that headquarters had received word of the robbery and quickly dispersed assistance.

One of the officers, he said, was hurt but is recovering at the city’s hospital.

Foo also said that Scotland may have stumbled on a bigger case than he

thought. According to him, the bandits may have been the same ones conducting similar break-ins during the last few weeks. Foo confirmed that on Friday, another stall belonging to one Winston Lambert was also broken into. Saturday into Sunday morning, other attempts were made and Sunday into yesterday, Foo said, the persons were apprehended.

The robbers will also be questioned in connection with other recent break-ins where crooks used the same means of entry.

On the issue of defence,

Foo highlighted that City Hall might have to revisit issues of retooling the ranks. While officers may be equipped with batons, Foo pointed out that most times, crooks are armed with guns, knives and cutlasses.

They are often well organized and their plots well laid out. Foo said that maybe officers are not properly armed and equipped to deal with such situations. He said that at least 70 per cent of the constabulary’s staff are women and the need for retooling may have to be reviewed.

Page 4

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

That vote of no-confidence These past few months the National Assembly has been more interested in action against the Minister of Home Affairs than with the business of the nation. At least that is the impression being created. The opposition benches passed a vote of no-confidence against the Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee. The reason the opposition offered was that he had not served in the best interest of the nation; that he presided over the killing of some 400 young men; that he failed to protect the society from criminal elements.

In short, the opposition claimed that Rohee is a failure in the office. It argued that by virtue of this vote it was going to refuse to hear Rohee in the House. The matter has gone even further because the courts have ruled that to bar Rohee from speaking in the National Assembly to deny those who voted for the Government and consequently, Rohee, are being denied their democratic right to speak in the House.

This is being accepted by the National Assembly but the Opposition now claims that it will not hear Rohee present any Bill as Minister of Home Affairs. The members on the other side want President Donald Ramotar to remove him for incompetence and non-performance. This is not going to happen, at least not yet.

The appointment of Ministers is the prerogative of the Executive and the Executive is independent of the judiciary.

It is one of the three independent pillars of the constitution.

The others are the Parliament and the Judiciary. None can dictate to the other. However, the court can make a ruling if it feels that the constitution is breached.

An examination of the opposition move against Rohee raises many questions. Surely the opposition cannot believe that Rohee is the only Minister who may have performed poorly as far as the Ministry is concerned. For example, there has been the almost perennial problem with electricity.

Blackouts can be expected at any time.

Recently, the people of Berbice complained about what they called incessant blackouts. A chart would show that they have been without power for almost as long as they have been supplied with power. Prime Minister Sam Hinds heads the electricity sector. Using the same yardstick that is applied to Rohee, the opposition should also seek a motion of noconfidence against the Prime Minister. This has not been done.

When one looks at the Education sector one sees many problems. Each year thousands of children leave school, many of them illiterate and most of them functionally illiterate.

These children often have no option but to adopt measures, some of them antisocial. More than a few of them have become fodder for the criminal enterprise.

There has been talk about revamping the education sector but each year the situation remains. Surely there could be grounds for a motion of no-confidence against the Education Minister. This has not been done.

There are other Ministers who are presiding over nonperforming or poorly performing areas of their Ministry. There is the roads programme, one of them being the Amaila Falls road project which has been stumbling from one problem to another.

There are the four-lane roads being constructed along East Coast Demerara and East Bank Demerara. These have caused numerous traffic jams along the thoroughfares. Must Minister Robeson Benn be the subject of a vote of no-confidence?

Last week, the raging Atlantic surged across the sea defence along lower east Coast Demerara to the extent that it flooded sections of the East Demerara carriageway and rendered them impassable. Must the Minister be sanctioned?

There are so many things that need to be done in the National Assembly. There are Bills and Motions that could shape the future of the country. There are Bills designed to deal with criminality that have not yet been debated. Instead, the House is spending a lot of time on silencing one Minister.

People are tired of the fight to prove that one side is more powerful. They want progress. When they leave these shores they see so many things that they lack.

And our politicians in Guyana still wonder why the migration rate is so high.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Letters... Where your views make the news

Maxwell’s analysis of Ramkarran flawed DEAR EDITOR, Mr. M. Maxwell has developed a reputation for original thought which is sometimes more stimulating, refreshing and balanced than others who support the AFC. But his letter in KN of 19-113 titled “Ramkarran fails to acknowledge that the PPP has become the PNC it so enduringly fears” has been most disappointing, as it is flawed.

What does Mr. Maxwell really believe? First he applauds the respected former Speaker for “an outstanding piece” (The PPP’s enduring fears, SN, 14 January, 2013) but then he also says “it is devoid of the kind of complete analysis that Mr. Ramkarran is eminently capable of.” Unless Mr. Maxwell is privately familiar with Mr. Ramkarran’s other analyses, one is at a loss to know what he is comparing. Maybe Mr. Maxwell is privy to things we do not know.

In querying the basis of Mr. Ramkarran’s fears, we find Mr. Maxwell informing us that, whether or not “Ramkarran asserts this is the case, it very likely this is how the PPP hierarchy thinks in Freedom House.” If theirs is sanctimoniousness that ideology is a cure for all problems, i.e., Guyana does not have a race problem, what explains their mistreatment of the longtime loyal PPP stalwart?

Who will awake Mr. Maxwell to inform him that Mr. Ramkarran is currently estranged from those who control Freedom House? More proof of Mr. Maxwell’s disconnect is evident whereby he

criticises the PPP’s ineptitude, that ”no party that lives in perpetual fear of another party, or anything for that matter, could make rational decisions, informed choices and do the right thing when necessary…”, but then he brandishes an incomprehensible logical linkage of a PPP not so much “trapped by an unhealthy paranoia” but more so with “a cultural mental illness!”

Is this not a below-the-belt insult to a significant section of Guyanese from such a prominent gentleman as Mr. Maxwell? If befuddled, yet brace yourself for a complete surprise. Sauciness (intended or not) is made honey palatable where he ostensibly takes the entire PPP to task for being “a party of weak-minded individuals and feeble souls who are perpetually afraid to define and defend them(selves), their constituency and their country.

This impotency and weakness leads to selfishness and this focus on self, because of an impotency to act fearlessly, leads to corruption and selfaggrandizement.”

Whilst Mr. Maxwell may be somewhat correct on the first part, he is most illogically, again, off-base in his conclusions.

With Mr. Maxwell’s echoing an awakening call on the PPP leadership, he momentarily pushed Mr. Ramkarran off the target range.

Look how race has even consumed the WPA. Mr. Maxwell can provide enlightening wisdom in adequately explaining how Dr Walter Rodney’s multiracial socialist WPA skeletons dead men walking -

have become more rabidly Afrocentric advocates in open alliance with the PNC/ APNU crowd.

Can APNU’s recalibrated demands for equality in shared government, based solely on race, not present a significant dilemma for the PPP/C considering its consistent ideological emphasis on class?

The fears of PPP supporters based on their consistent ideological and sustaining cultural history and standards, and that of Mr. Maxwell’s obfuscations may well explain why he dismisses ”the PPP’s continued fear of the PNC as largely demented and racedriven.” Surprise?

Recall it was Mr. Maxwell who also condemned the PPP/C government with an inherent hesitancy and ”fear of doing the right thing in the first place, fixing the police force, (which) leaves this country a criminal safe haven and murderous and violent drug-trafficking paradise, and the Guyanese people pay(ing) the price daily for the gutlessness of the ruling party”?

In the same letter we find Mr. Maxwell surprisingly condemning the PPP as also ‘demented because the PNC has not turned out to be what the PPP caricaturized it as in 1992. We have had no civil

war. The pro-PNC military and police have been very balanced. The last two elections have witnessed largely peaceful PNC protests”. How much verbal gymnastics in unreality can we fathom?

Mr. Maxwell can be excused if he is unaware what is so rib-tickling laughable when he claims “many PPP supporters no longer actively fear the PNC. Some fear the PNC less. Others were not even born when the PNC ruled. Thus, we have the present PPP leadership hiding under desks at the mere mention of the PNC while many of their supporters simply do not fear the PNC”.

Providing any credible evidence on which he fixes all such fallacies would be most significantly educational. Go for it. Does Mr. Maxwell really believe that Mr. Ramkarran is intent on political suicide when he does not need the grief? Until the PPP becomes speedily reconciliated with addressing Mr. Ramkarran’s analysis, it seriously jeopardizes any future electoral success. Maybe the PPP will quickly learn some lessons from the 2011 elections, unlike their 28 years of slow recalibration of not treating America as its enemy.

Sultan Mohamed

Don’t we count?

DEAR EDITOR, The census is apparently over. No one visited my home and I live in an area that cannot be easily missed. I wonder if many others are in this situation. This is a 10 year

event and I wonder who planned this very important activity. Is there a number to call and is there a period of time where all like myself can be counted.

Eric Phillips

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 5

Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news

Our new citizens should be healers and peacemakers DEAR EDITOR, The recent issue arising out of an alleged assault upon a female child by a Chinese business couple highlights an open and seeping sore that infects the body of our nation.

And despite the fact that it is visible to anyone who cares to look, those charged with nursing and attending the national body choose to ignore it, and in fact, openly seem to be contributing to the widening of the fissure.

The Constitution of Guyana does not place any individual or group below or above others in its dispensations. In this context, it behooves those of us who with eyes wide open pay attention to what goes on in Guyana, to analyze, document and give public expression when the symptoms attendant to the ailment manifests itself in public view.

We have had a sociological paradigm created in our land that suggests that certain segments of our population are not entitled to

the full rights of citizenship.

That they can be summarily dealt with by anyone who harbours a suspicion, realistic or not, that they might have offended against the law or establishmentarian power structure and its affiliates.

About the most blatant evidence of that reality is the disdain with which incident after incident of vigilante killings was greeted by officialdom.

The fact that many citizens at that time, including Attorneys at Law who ought to have known better, and prominent business persons, felt no ethical or moral reservations about arguing that these killings were justified or acceptable, suggest that I am not off track with my conclusions in this respect.

I cannot conceive of any situation in which a female child whose religious faith endorses a mode of attire that virtually covers the entire body could be beaten and stripped in public, and would

not have produced a groundswell of protestations from other members of her faith. This does not jive with what we have been seeing in Guyana and this world today.

Yet at a time when there were arguments in the Independent dailies by Clerics who supposedly share the same faith of this young female, that conservative attire was conducive to a decrease in the violence of rape, there were no public reactions from them over this crass and indecent violation.

So I had to ask myself why? I had to ask myself why were they not offended? How could they ignore the fact that a female member of their faith was stripped in public view?

But then I realized that they were immune from such concerns because of who the female was. The fact that she shared their faith was of less significance for them, than the fact of who she was.

And she happened to be a member of the population group living under an

Blatant breaches of the Constitution and misuse of democratic powers by Govt.

DEAR EDITOR, The double standards being pursued by government are providing much cause for alarm in Guyana.

GINA, the government information agency, has unambiguously declared, “Whenever, Constitutional doctrines are ignored and are trampled upon and the Constitution is regularly violated by the National Assembly, the Attorney General (AG) has a responsibility to take the issue to the Court as it is the Executive’s responsibility which mandates it to ensure that the rule of law is maintained and the Constitution is observed, both in its letter and in spirit.”(GINA – December 31, 2012) Recent disclosures, however, would suggest that government has failed miserably to meet with its declared obligations and, to uphold and protect the constitution as its keeper, during the administration’s watch.

Findings from an unbiased analysis, is a damning indictment of government misdemeanour and must be credited to the unselfish diligence and hard work of Mr. Christopher Ram. He has presented the public with the dilemma of a ticking time bomb that could explode if government does

not curb its ways.

There is now a greater need for sanctions to be placed against those who insist on violating the Constitution and grabbing hold of absolute powers to fulfill their own selfish desires.

The country is still struggling with the legacy of Forbes Burnham, who devised the Constitution to usurp absolute powers for himself as supreme, and above the law.

The revelations of Mr. Ram have highlighted the conduct of an ex-attorney general.

The ex-attorney has sworn under oath to be the guardian of Guyana’s Constitution and to protect and defend it during his watch. However it appears the ex-attorney general has failed to properly execute his duties.

Mr Ram was not intimidated by those who see themselves as high priests with ‘expertise as a legal mind’. However, the high priest could not tell the difference, when it was a ‘private lottery not a government lottery’ (SN, Jan 20, 2013). In his assessment Mr Ram stated, “With a modicum of diligence, Mr Ramson would have discovered that there is no Development Fund of Guyana whether under the Constitution, the Financial Administration and Audit Act, Cap. 73:04, or the successor

provisions in the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act No 20 of 2003. The latter makes it pellucid and mandatory that all public moneys raised or received by the government must be credited fully and promptly to the Consolidated Fund. The only exceptions, none of which applies to the 24% received from a private company, are: (a) moneys credited to an extra-budgetary fund set up under enabling legislation establishing such a fund”.

Mr. Ram concluded, “Mr. Ramson’s most egregious error was his failure to recognise that the Constitution is the supreme law of Guyana and its provisions, including Article 216, cannot be swept aside by the terms of any agreement however clearly or ineptly drafted”.

It is an indictment if the constitution has been blatantly violated and not recognized, and due diligence not properly executed.

No one should be above the law and, if a guardian chooses to abuse their sacred role in both letter and spirit, then he/she must be held culpable.

Justice should therefore be pursued without fear or favour, and be delivered without compromise, regardless of status.

Mac Mahase

establismentarian premise, that they had no rights that some are duty-bound to respect or recognize.

I have a great deal of regard for the ancient Chinese culture with its sophisticated understanding of human values and worth. The great Chinese philosopher Confucius said, “...By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest....”

It would seem to me that many new immigrants to our nation are being impelled by known circumstances to gain wisdom and understanding of how Guyana is culturally structured by imitating establishmentarian behaviours and attitudes they observe on arrival. Why else would any new immigrant to a nation construe that it was okay to beat and strip a female child in public view because they suspect she might have stolen something?

Why else would they respond to my protesting their attitude with the assertion that I should go back to Africa. Imagine, me, a descendant of virtually every group that have suffered

oppression in Guyana going back centuries, being commanded to go back to Africa by someone who came here recently.

I refuse to judge an entire group by the odious conduct and attitude of a few.

And it is in this context that I will appeal to the Chinese community to treat every citizen of Guyana in a manner that is consistent with their expectations if they were back in their original countries, and they were in the position of the Guyanese.

Our nation is caught up with strife that has endured for over five decades in which they had no role. The only role

they should seek to involve themselves in today as new citizens, is that of the healer, that of the peacemaker, that of the example that diverse human cultures can exist in harmony within a single geography.

If they believe in the wisdom of the wise Confucius then apply his observation “In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of.

In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of......” to the situation in Guyana, and join in removing it from those distinctions.

Mark A. Benschop

Page 6

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Shyam Nokta’s appointment is a Two spurned lovers conflict of interest - Joe Harmon torch spouses’ homes

APNU Member of Parliament Joe Harmon says that even though the Office of the President says that it is not paying Presidential Advisor on Climate Change Shyam Nokta, the man is still exposed to confidential information.

Harmon was at the time responding to the question on whether there is conflict of interest between Nokta’s appointment and the fact that he is the Managing Director of the E n v i r o n m e n t a l Management Consultants (EMC).

According to the Member of Parliament it’s definitely a conflict of interest.

Harmon told Kaieteur News

that the fact that he is not being paid makes no difference.

He said that Nokta is exposed to information which he could in turn use for his own gains for his company.

Harmon said that Nokta has no right to be in that position, if this government is really serious about transparency.

Harmon added that Nokta should make the decision whether he wants to be at the Office of the President or managing his company.

Nokta is the Managing Director of Environmental Management Consultants

(EMC) and at the same time he is the Presidential Advisor on Climate Change to President Ramotar. Mr. Nokta, as head of EMC, a private company, tenders for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Environmental Audits etc that require approval from the Ramotar administration, the same administration to which he has high-level access.

The issue was raised by a letter writer in this newspaper, who alleged that there was some form of “conflict of interest”.

On Saturday this newspaper contacted Mr. Nokta who said that he had not seen the letter.

Lilawattie Das

Linden Johnson, the man who stabbed Lilawattie Das five times in the back, was wanted by the police for torching Das’s house on December 14, last.

Police have said charges are likely to be instituted against the man very shortly.

The recent incident where a woman was abducted and stabbed, at Queenstown came several days after another man, Matthew Johnson, torched Nelly Sookra’s house. Sookra is said to be his reputed wife.

Matthew Johnson will be charged for arson today.

Still physically exhausted, Lilawattie Das who almost lost her life Sunday morning after she was held captive by Linden Johnson, vowed that she would not continue her relationship with her attacker.

Johnson and Das lived

together for the past five months. Recollecting the horrific ordeal, Das recounted going to the toilet, early Sunday morning when she was confronted by Johnson.

She added that upon noticing Johnson she attempted to run away but was overpowered by the man, who carried a knife and a cutlass.

Das said that Johnson held unto her and lured her in the backlands, at Queenstown, but during the course of the journey, Das said she reasoned with Johnson telling him she would reconcile with him.

Whilst in the backlands, Das said that Johnson camped out at his cousin’s camp and was busy preparing a meal of cook up rice.

She said that by that time the police were informed and

had converged at the scene to rescue her. Johnson was still holding her captive and proceeded to stab her five times with the last stab wound almost severing her in close proximity to her heart.

“The police were going to shoot him when he warned them not to come closer,” Das said.

However Das said she managed to push Johnson aside and the police were forced to fire a round to subdue the man off before he was captured.

Das who is now homeless and is fighting to stay alive said she would accept any form of assistance to rebuild her life.

She added that nothing was saved in the fire and that she is currently being taken care of by her aunt, Mala Sookra.

Toddler injured after falling from veranda

The veranda from which the toddler fell

A toddler playing on a veranda landed on a concrete surface after falling several feet from a two-storey house at Lot ‘A’ Public Road, Timehri yesterday.

The child who is almost two years old was identified

as Serika Singh. She was taken to a private hospital in the city by her mother and grandmother.

Reports reveal that the enthusiastic child opened the veranda door and was playing there unattended. She

may have climbed onto the railing of the veranda and fell over. “Her mom had many dreams before of her falling over the veranda, but no one ever believed they would ever come through,” one relative said.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 7

Page 8

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 9

UNDER THE CLOCK Back in the day when you learnt that a patient was placed “under the clock” at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, you planned for the worse.

Being “under the clock” developed into a kind of local folklore with many people actually believing that once you were placed in that particular ward, at that location, you were being consigned to your death bed.

Under the clock referred in those days to a ward in one of the monstrous old wooden buildings in the compound of the Public Hospital (Georgetown).

In fact, almost all of the buildings were dormitory-like wooden structures which overtime were overrun with wood ants and were not satisfactorily maintained.

The result was that the entire place was worse than a prison. The toilets were overflowing, the place was unkempt. It was depressing back in the day to go to that hospital.

Those old wooden buildings, however, were cooler than building a similar concrete structure but the maintenance cost would have no doubt been prohibitive.

The British did their best to keep those wooden structures in good shape, worthy of a hospital but overtime there was simply no money to repaint them, or even to keep them clean and the external

neglect also began to be symptomatic of the treatment one could have expected inside.

Today, the compound where those old wooden buildings used to be is now transformed.

It is amazing what has been put in its place.

Impressive new concrete structures have been established and what is really good about the design is that they are very well ventilated and, in fact, are much cooler than the old wooden structures that they replaced.

The old “accident ward” has now been pulled down.

It was quite an experience going into that old wooden accident ward since you saw the effects of road accidents there and the mangled bodies of the victims. It was not a pleasant sight at all and the musky and drab nature of the old wooden building was equally depressing.

All of that has now changed and the government has built, with the assistance of the Inter-American Development Bank, a really impressive new ward, three stories high. It replaces the old accident and emergency ward.

It is clean, it is modern and it has all the amenities, including a waiting room for visitors. And best of all, it is a concrete and steel structure which means that

Dem boys seh...

Bar Bee hiding he face from he own TV Bar Bee really hiding. He busy defending how he had a right to sell drugs. He call dem reporter who wukking wid he TV station and he newspaper fuh tell he side of de story of how to rob de Ministry of Health and de hospital.

Is a secret that he don’t like people see he face so when he give he reporter de TV interview he tun he back and then he put a sack over he face. Dem boys review de interview and dem tell Bar Bee that it can’t show suh de man call he puppet –Dr Leslie.

He pull one string and Dr Leslie holler how everything de Waterfalls paper write is lies. Bar Bee pull another string and de puppet Dr Leslie holler how de Waterfalls paper envy Bar Bee. Dem boys want to know fuh what. It can’t be fuh de jail suit that bar Bee got waiting fuh he.

Dr Leslie is de one who set up all dem contract fuh Bar Bee. A businessman seh that he de Dr Leslie gone to Agriculture and doing de same thing. He singling out special people fuh contract like how he tek instruction from de King Bee and single out Bar Bee. But is de Bar Bee plan that got dem boys laughing. This is a man who hollering how people lying pun he but he can’t come forward and show he face fuh seh is he people lying about.

De Waterfalls paper keeping he face in de public suh when anybody see he dem gun know who is de thing who tail Dr Leslie like to smell and who does collect de King Bee money.

Bar Bee ain’t got to worry bout space fuh complain. He got a whole paper which got more space than a football field. De only thing that he lef to do is to set up interview pun he radio station but then again, nobody ain’t gun hear it.

But fuh de jokes that Dr Leslie tell, dem boys want to thank Bar Bee. And dem also seh ‘A big thank you Dr Ramroop.” Talk half and don’t stop Bar Bee

maintenance costs will only be a small fraction of what they used to be.

While the old wooden buildings would have been part of our heritage, they had become too run-down and derelict.

The Public Hospital (Georgetown) is now one of the best hospitals, if not the best, in Guyana in terms of the facilities that it has in place and while it is always sad to see an old building come down, it seems now only a

matter of time before some of the other older buildings in that compound are leveled and new structures put up.

The good thing is that everything in there is free of cost and Guyanese unfortunately are taking this for granted.

As I was passing on the pavement outside of the hospital, I heard a scream coming from another new building that has been established and which houses the female surgical

ward. That scream brought back memories of “the clock” when such sounds signaled the death of someone.

The screams that I heard were not, however, about someone dying. They were premature reactions. They emanated from family members of an ailing patient who on seeing him hooked up to all those fancy machines that they now have, felt that he was on his last. They panicked and started to scream and were told to calm

down.

A few days later, when I visited again, the man was unhooked from the machines and was sitting up in bed. The superstition of “the clock” had passed.

Page 10

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

=== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ===

Time to question the great Clive Lloyd In all the decades that I have been doing commentaries I have never hesitated even for a split second to pen a critically negative comment on either an international, Caribbean or Guyanese icon.

I am even more eager to do it because as people who have achieved adulation and respect for their endeavors, they ought to act as examples to the world at all times.

In recent times, I asked a question of Sir Shridath

Ramphal. He contributed a panegyric to President Bharrat Jagdeo’s Day of Appreciation and so I wondered in one of my columns why three years ago, after retiring from international duties, he chose to settle in one of the most populated pieces of land on Planet Earth, Barbados and not Guyana.

I commented most sarcastically on a man who was awarded the Order of Excellence, Dr. Compton

Bourne, when he was Chancellor of UG. I sat next to this man for three years and saw him administer policies at UG and he is a stranger to the process of professional conduct and fairness.

I have no respect and will have none in the future for Dr. David Dabydeen. I don’t think I will ever in the future say a nice word about Rickey Singh. Sir Shridath, Compton Bourne, David Dabydeen and Rickey Singh will probably say to

themselves who gives a damn what some Guyanese nonentity says about them.

That is their right. I reserve my right to say what I think needs to be said. Remember the famous saying; “A man has got to do what a man has got to do.”

There are great Guyanese I have criticized and in the end, I remained committed in my view that they are great. I can think

of the late David De Caires.

We had our quarrels, David had his flaws (God knows I have too many) but David was a superb man and a fairminded one.

I have penned a few critical remarks on the politics of Clive Thomas but he remains a Guyanese hero. I had running disagreements with Tacuma Ogunseye but I will always see him as fantastic contributor to Guyanese liberation.

I now come to the cricket icon, Clive Lloyd. I have done several pieces on the imbroglio between the Guyana Government, its invention of an IMC headed

by Mr. Lloyd and the Guyana Cricket Board. In all the analyses, I did not take a position of support for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).

I don’t know what has played out in the boardroom the past umpteen years and I am not going to push my mouth in that.

My contestation remains the same – the Guyana Government, seeing that there was turmoil in the administration of cricket sought to control it by using bullying tactics. Their answer was the IMC. Enter Clive Lloyd.

I am no big cricket fan but I am aware of the international legacy of Lloyd and it is for that reason I think Lloyd should have thought long and hard before getting involved in a process that could jeopardize his international standing. I guess that when he was called in to work with the Government, he must have been told that there were huge problems with the GCB. But Lloyd had to know that the international administrators of football and cricket see red when Governments get involved with these two sports.

To date, Lloyd and his patrons have not showed

Frederick Kissoon this nation proof of financial irregularities in the GCB despite seizing documents from the GCB and from the individual homes of its Board members.

Against this background how can Lloyd avoid the accusation that the IMC was a conspiracy to take over cricket administration?

Lloyd should have asked himself why the Government has not acted with similar supersonic speed in creating an IMC for football. I will answer that by saying that Lloyd knows the disaster that would have followed.

Why didn’t Lloyd use his international contacts to secure resolutions without governmental interference?

There are thousands of wellintentioned cricket experts in the world that would have helped. Look at how foreign football officials mediated and succeed in the quarrel in local football.

Another road missed by Clive Lloyd is that as the head of the IMC he should have sought a role for wider s t a k e h o l d e r s ’ participation, including opposition parties. Lloyd must be aware that in Guyana once the Government does something the opposition is suspicious, and vice versa.

But Lloyd chose to embrace with the mandate given to him by the creators of the IMC. I can’t help but advising this once great cricketer to stick to sports and stay far from Guyanese politics.

Conflicting address lands man in jail A 20-year-old man was yesterday denied bail because he could not provide the court with a fixed address.

Devon Baptiste faced Magistrate Allan Wilson at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on a charge that he stole an 8520 model of a Blackberry cellular phone from Mahendra Puran. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

However, the young man when providing the court with his address noted that he lives at Norton Street, Lodge but doesn’t know the Lot number since he had recently moved there.

He opted to give the court another place of residence which he claims his mother occupies.

The prosecution objected to bail based on the nature of the offence and the punishment it attracts.

However the magistrate refused to grant the defendant bail on the sole basis that he was unable to provide the court with a fixed place of abode.

Baptiste is scheduled to make his next court appearance on January 30.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Govt. to use police to enforce use of market tarmacs

Enmore market tarmac.

The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is set to aggressively pursue relocation of roadside vendors this year to market tarmacs that were constructed and handed over last year.

Speaking on a recent aired programme on the National Communications Network (NCN) Channel 11, Minister in the Ministry, Norman Whittaker, said that the Ministry will be pushing this issue in 2013. It could even seek support from the police, a statement from the government news agency said yesterday.

“We have constructed at much cost, several tarmacs in several regions in the country and we are disturbed that maximum use is not being made of these tarmacs,” the Minister said.

He said that instead of utilising the tarmacs, the vendors have instead continued to vend on road sides, and in some instances on reserves.

In Diamond, East Bank Demerara, like at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, vendors have been refusing to use the tarmacs.

Minister Whittaker said that the ministry is not prepared to allow this to continue, and with support from the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) will be putting much focus on the issue.

“We have started to engage the NDCs in some of these areas with respect to engaging these vendors and give them a timeline,” he said.

He further said that if this avenue proves unsuccessful, “we will elicit the support of

and the assistance of the police if necessary to have vendors relocated.”

During last year, the ministry handed over about 10 market tarmacs in communities including Diamond/Grove, Best Klien/ Pouderoyen, Toevlugt/ Patentia, Charity, Plaisance, Buxton and Haslington.

The Minister said that the significant investments by the Ministry are part of Government’s aim to curb the practice of road side vending, and to achieve the practice of selling in a healthy and conducive environment.

Residents have been putting the tarmacs to other use for football and even cricket matches. Some persons are even learning to drive on the unused structures.

Gafsons, the major hardware conglomerate, has decided to liquate defunct companies, after shareholders saw no need to keep them in existence.

In notices published in the Guyana Chronicle, it was announced that A. Gafoor and Sons (1982) Limited, National Investments Limited and Plastic Products Limited would be wound up voluntarily. The decision was taken at an extra-ordinary general meeting of the companies on December 18, last.

Mr Harry Noel Narine, Chartered Accountant of PKF, Barcellos, Narine and

company was appointed liquidator with respect to all three companies.

Narine, in an invited comment, confirmed that the three companies are defunct.

The companies have not been in operation for years and were previously used by the Gafsons group to serve the business interests. For example, one of the companies was used to import products which the company would then sell.

The liquidation of the companies is not expected to affect in any way operations of the Gafsons Group of Companies which

employs an estimated 1,000 persons.

The Gafoors have been in the hardware business for over 50 years and have sought to diversify operations over the years.

They got their break in 1957 when Premier Cheddi Jagan abolished the licensing requirements for the importation of most goods, and Gafoor started importing from Romania, Czechoslovakia, Poland and East Germany.

Now, the company has main operations at Land of Canaan and Plantation Houston with branches across the country.

Gafsons liquidates defunct companies

Page 11

Page 12

Kaieteur News

Poor accounting…

By Leonard Gildarie A poor state of recordkeeping at Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) has both Government and opposition parties hopping mad.

Parliamentarians of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), sitting on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly, yesterday threatened to back measures to withhold an annual $3M subvention to the community management bodies guilty of not presenting their finances for state audit.

The committee is the one tasked to examine Government accounts and how state funds are spent.

NDCs are tasked with managing the communities across the country.

This was following admissions by officials of the Ministry of Local Government and the Auditor General that financial statements remain a large problem. The Ministry officials were at the time answering questions on observations made by the Auditor General in his 2010 report on the accounts of the NDCs and the regions.

The Port Kaituma/ Matthews Ridge/Arakaka NDC in Region One was said to be the most problematic with accounts not presented since the 1990s.

The functioning of the NDCs has indeed been a major problem for Government throughout consecutive administrations.

Poorly maintained

Tuesday January 22, 2013

MPs threaten to stop $3M subvention to NDCs until compliance

Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Ministry, Collin Croal (at left) and other officials at the Public Accounts Committee hearings yesterday. infrastructure, like drains and the collection of garbage, coupled with accusations of corruption, have been a major thorn in the side of government. There have been complaints about NDCs, in which some leaders were even accused of becoming power drunk.

With the last local government elections held in 1994 and the National Assembly now preparing to consider key legislative changes, the pressure has been increasing, including a recent, unprecedented public call from foreign donors for the early holding of same.

Last year, the Ministry replaced several nonfunctioning NDCs across the country with Interim Management Committees.

In addition to collecting rates and taxes, the NDCs would depend on the $3M subventions to help with

capital works. $320M In 2010 alone, $320M was approved as subvention to six municipalities and 65 NDCs. The accounts, according to requirements, have to be completed no later than four months after the financial year would have ended. At the time of the Auditor General’s work on the 2010 accounts, only 35 NDCs complied.

According to the Ministry, the 65 NDCs would have collected $195M in 2010 with M&CC $20M; Linden Town Council and New Amsterdam Town Council $10M each; Anna Regina Town Council $9M and Corriverton and Rose Hall Town Councils $8M each.

As of December last year, there were attempts by some of the bodies to present financial statements for

varying periods, with the town councils managing up to $2009.

Odinga Lumumba, who represents Government on PAC, called on the Ministry to consider withholding the $3M until compliance. He was backed by both Manzoor Nadir and Gail Teixeira of the government side. He insisted that the situation has to come to an end.

Volda Lawrence, a Member of Parliament for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), said that while she agreed that

sanctions must be taken, she warned that citizens should not pay the price for what may be the fault of NDCs’ employees.

STRONG SIGNAL At the NDCs, the overseers are the ones responsible for the preparation of the accounts. It was even suggested that one of the measures to be taken is the withholding of salaries of the overseers.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Collin Croal, told the MPs that regional

administrations are the ones that are responsible for disbursing funds.

It was acknowledged that while the regional administrations would have records of the monies paid to the NDCs, it was that of the rates and taxes that citizens were paying that is the biggest problem. Croal said that Government has started training for the regional workers and even working to computerize the accounts.

However, the MPs remained unconvinced that in the short term it would solve the problem of noncompliance. According to Nadir, a “strong signal” has to be sent to the NDCs and other regional bodies that it will not tolerate any slackening.

In addition to Lawrence, representing the Opposition on the PAC were Jaipaul Sharma of APNU and Trevor Williams of the Alliance For Change. The PAC is chaired

by APNU’s Carl Greenidge, a former finance minister under Desmond Hoyte administration.

The Local Government officials will have two weeks to make proposals to PAC on possible measures.

Berbice health care workers urged to deliver quality healthcare

By Leon Suseran Health care workers in Berbice are being urged to deliver quality healthcare as if their salaries depended on it. The call was made by Chairman of the Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA), Anil Beharry, recently.

The forum was a Review and Analysis meeting with the heads of the various health missions in Berbice.

Over recent times, the quality of healthcare, particularly the attitudes of nurses and doctors at the Berbice hospitals have come under heavy scrutiny.

Outpourings from disheartened Berbicians have seen numerous newspaper articles blaming doctors for miscarriages, and poor treatment of patients.

Beharry warned healthcare attendants in both Regions Five and Six to step up to the task of providing quality healthcare to members of the public.

“One of the weak areas I have observed is the attitude of our own staff, the work ethics, mannerisms and the way they talk to people—and I am very disappointed—we have to understand that we are offering a service to people who are ill, who need

caring and attention”.

“We are here to offer health services to people and we have to cross that bridge of race, religion and politics and we need to understand that we are here as a team…our goal is to make sure our people get the best possible healthcare service,” Beharry posited.

He believes that providing medical services to the public is more “psychology than actually giving people medication”.

“I think if people walk into the ward or hospital and you don’t talk nicely to them, you will get them doubly sick….so I call on our staff, please, be human when you are dealing with these patients…they don’t come to burden you, so treat them like a client, like you own a business. If you start looking at the patients as a burden, then you are at the wrong place”.

While admitting that the health sector in Berbice is operating with limited resources, he said this should not compromise the quality of delivery.

“We have limited resources and we are working to try to see if we can improve finance and staff resources.”

Timely inspection of equipment

especially those that are underperforming and failing is also crucial so that the government can plan for the foreseeable future and have those expenditures in the budget early.

Chief Executive Officer of the BRHA, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, noted too that family members of patients at the New Amsterdam Hospital will now have extra time to visit as a result of extended visiting hours. This will be done first on a trial basis, but can become a fixed, permanent arrangement if it works out well.

The BRHA and the hospital administration combined efforts and ideas to make this possible since they thought patient recuperation is heightened when family members spend time with the patients.

“If this goes well, we might be able to expand it even further…the more the dear ones stay with the patients, the better they (patients) can recuperate”.

The extended visiting hours will become effective shortly.

Mahadeo added that a decision has also been taken to allow a female relative of any patient below 12 years to stay with that patient.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 13

Page 14

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Police still to identify elderly accident victim Police up to yesterday were seeking the identity of the elderly man who was on Saturday evening killed after being struck by a car on the Number One Public Road, Corentyne. They have been using a photograph which was shown around after no one had been able to identify the body. The accident occurred at approximately 21:30 hours.

According to information the 212 silver gray motor car, PMM 9379 was being driven

by Leroy Benn of Alness, Corentyne, Berbice. It is understood that the driver was proceeding in the direction of New Amsterdam behind another vehicle when, it is alleged that the vehicle in front suddenly applied brakes, swerved, and continued on its way. Benn stated that he was suddenly

confronted with a pedestrian in the middle of the road. He hit the man who was subsequently picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam hospital where he was pronounced dead on

arrival.

The driver is in police custody assisting with the investigations. His car was damaged.

It is unclear if the dead man was under the influence of alcohol, but according to information, the man was seen earlier walking in the middle of the road heading in the vicinity of Nigg and Albion further up the Corentyne. He was brought in the corner, but continued on his way.

The victim appears to be in his mid-sixties, of medium build and brown complexion.

He was clad in a blue jersey, dark blue jeans, and a pair of black slippers. The body is at the New Amsterdam Hospital Mortuary.

Anyone with information can contact the nearest police station.

The car involved in the accident

Bridge crash

The driver of this 63 ‘A’ minibus BKK 2037 lost control and crashed into the

Berbice River Bridge, recently, severely damaging his vehicle and snarling traffic for hours.

No one was however seriously injured. The police are still investigating.

Post mortem confirms Berbice wife killer drank poison A post mortem examination performed on the body of New Amsterdam, Berbice wife killer, Narendra Thakoor, has confirmed that the man did drink poison after hacking 28-year-old Bhanmattie Bacchus to death.

Thakoor died at the New Amsterdam Hospital, minutes after he was rushed there from the Central Police Station lock-ups where he was being held following the brutal murder of the mother of two of his children last Wednesday.

There was some controversy surrounding the cause of Thakoor’s death, especially since he was discharged from the hospital

on his initial visit there, minutes after the killing.

Thakoor was arrested shortly after he was seen fleeing the scene of the murder with a bottle of suspected poison in his hand.

He later told police that he had ingested the poison.

However when he was taken to the hospital, he was sent away by medical personnel there who claimed that he was okay.

Hours later, while in police custody, Thakoor started to vomit, and was immediately rushed back to the hospital where he eventually succumbed.

Yesterday’s post mortem examinations, which were

conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan, revealed the cause of death of Bhanmattie Devi Bacchus as haemorrhage and shock due to incised wounds.

Bhanmattie Devi Bacchus was attacked and chopped about her body with a cutlass

by Narendra Thakoor last Wednesday at Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Meanwhile, the cause of death of 70-year-old Jasmattie Pooran of Guava Bush, Albion, Corentyne, was given as suffocation.

Pooran’s body was found in her home with her hands tied and mouth gagged on Saturday last.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

SAG welcomes acquisition of new pilot launch The Shipping Association of Guyana has hailed the acquisition of a new pilot launch by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). The Association saw it as a very welcome upgrade of the operations of the Demerara Harbour.

MARAD disclosed recently that the pilot launch,‘ formerly named “Kakabelly” was acquired last December and has since started operations in the Demerara Port.

The basic work function of a pilot boat is to ensure that locally experienced pilots go out to incoming vessels and bring them safely into port.

Officials of MARAD recently disclosed that the Kakabelly, will be used to take pilots aboard vessels to bring them into the Demerara Ships’ Channel, then to the harbour at Port Georgetown.

The fibre glass vessel which came from the United Kingdom and has been complemented by a computerised system, reaches 23 knots, and is

deemed a very fast vessel, MARAD officials said.

Officials at MARAD said that the Department operates on a 24-hour basis, and the ‘Kakabelly’ is also capable of performing at nights.

They added that the ‘Kakabelly’ is faster than the other vessels and this has made their work easier.

The Kakabelly operates out of the MARAD wharf at Stabroek, Georgetown.

An official at SAG said, yesterday, that the operations of the previous aged pilot launch had for long been a major bugbear of the Association in its efforts to ensure a level of efficiency in the shipping industry which will facilitate the movement of imports and exports and so maximize national economic growth.

“The acquisition of a new and competent pilot launch to replace the aged one which was more inoperative than not is we feel one of the very badly needed upgrades at the Demerara Harbour,” the official said.

Page 15

Police investigate death of taxi driver, passenger

Dead: Sarfraz Ali A taxi driver for over a decade, 33-year-old Sarfraz Ali called “Anaconda” left his Lot 14 Sarah Johanna, East Bank Demerara home and never returned to his two children and pregnant wife Sunday night.

He crashed his taxi HB 6611 into a median at Long Creek, Soesdyke/Linden Highway killing himself and passenger 50-year-old Joel Mohamed, of Dora, Soesdyke/Linden Highway about 20:00hs.

The car was taken into police custody and impounded at the Long Creek Police Station on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

The crashed car parked at Long Creek Police Station, Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

According to police, investigations revealed that Sarfraz Ali was driving motor car HB 6611 along the roadway at a fast rate, when he lost control of the vehicle which turned turtle several times.

Sarfraz Ali and Joel Mohamed sustained injuries and were taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where they were pronounced dead on arrival.

Reports are that Ali picked up Mohammed on the Highway and the men were heading to Georgetown at the time of the accident.

One eyewitness told this publication that when they

raced to the scene, Mohamed was already out of the car and Ali was climbing out of the car.

“Like the impact pelt the other man out the car but Ali climb out the car and as soon as he reach out he fall down and left right deh.”

By the time other public spirited citizens reached to offer assistance both men appeared dead. They were placed in the back of a pickup and transported to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre.

Ali’s sister, Zubeda Ali said that she last saw her brother Sunday morning. The distressing call to inform the family of his demise came at

20:30 hrs. Relatives at the man’s residence were in shock. The man’s sister described him as a hardworking and lovable person who always had a smile on his face.

Other relatives said that the highway is sometimes very foggy and this may have contributed to the fatal accident since Ali is known as a good driver. When questioned if he was intoxicated, his sister denied such allegations.

But associates of the dead man at the hospital commented that he was drinking heavily hours before the accident.

Page 16

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Florida National Guard could assist GDF with Disaster Management training

Commodore Gary Best converses with visiting Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard, Major General Emmet Titshaw.

Opportunities for local army operatives to benefit from the expertise of the Florida National Guard in the areas of Disaster Management and Personal Security were explored during a meeting between Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard, Major General Emmett Titshaw, and Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Commodore Gary Best.

These and other issues were discussed when Major General Titshaw paid a courtesy call on Best at his office at Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna last Wednesday.

It was the Adjutant General’s first visit to the GDF and so the two officers mulled

likely areas of cooperation between the Guyana Defence Force and the Florida National Guard. They also initiated points of contact to facilitate easier communication between the two Forces. “Chief of Staff Commodore Best was also privy to the training opportunities which the Florida National Guard has to offer as well as that Force’s experience in the areas of Disaster Management and Personnel Security. The benefits and means for the enhancement of State Partnership programmes also formed part of the discussions,” a release from Camp Ayanganna said.

Additionally, the two officers have explored the

possibility of a reciprocal visit by a team from the Guyana Defence Force.

Commodore Best also extended an open invitation for the Commander to return at any time to visit the GDF. The Florida National Guard is the National Guard Force of the U.S. state of Florida. It comprises the Florida Army National Guard and the Florida Air National Guard. Though it is charged with federal and state missions, the National Guard troops may also be called into active federal service with the United States Army or the United States Air Force and deployed worldwide with the country’s active duty Army and Air Force counterparts.

Sawmillers want unrealistic LCDS quotas on logging removed Local sawmillers are saying that while they agree that Government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy(LCDS) is something desirable, the implementation has had some negative impacts on their operations.

They are bitterly complaining about quotas and restrictions which they have to adhere to that are resulting in downtime, underutilization of their workers and equipment and even underemployment.

They are also charging that a number of foreign owned companies in the forestry sector are not subject to these limitations, a situation they feel is unfair to them as citizens of Guyana.

One local saw miller explained that the problem dates back to the implementation of the LCDS scheme and the resultant implementation of a quota system which restricts the amount of logs they can harvest and process.

The problem for local sawmillers, he said, is that these quotas of logs are generally not enough to sustain continuous operations.

“The quotas we are restricted to translate to

inadequate amounts of logs for full time operations ,” one sawmiller explained.

He said, “The result of the low quotas is that every now and then we have to close down operations or just work for two days a week.

The saw men, the skid operators, the tractor drivers, the mechanics even the welders have to down tools.

It’s not good for them since they can’t get paid.”

Saw millers hardest hit are those who harvest logs along the left bank of the Corentyne River.

The source explained, “We only have one river bank. The other bank belongs to Suriname. This is further restriction.” Another adverse consequence is that skilled workers are moving on to other job situations where employment is more predictable. Regular saw millers are finding it increasingly difficult to acquire and keep skilled workers.

Another effect has been the drop in local production in the sector in recent years.

The businessman said that representatives of sawmillers have complained about this situation to the Guyana Forestry Commission

and promises were made to review the quotas but no action has been taken to date. He said, “Guyana’s forests are so dense and regeneration is so quick and natural that there is hardly any way a few sawmillers could use up even 10 per cent of these resources.”

“So what’s the big deal?” he asked.

He added: “There are foreigners operating in the sector who are getting a better deal than the born citizens of this country.”

Himself and his colleagues are calling on the Government to remove the quotas and restrictions being enforced as a result of the LCDS programme either partially or completely.

“We want to work to our fullest capacity and to provide satisfactory employment for Guyanese.

They need to review the current system and allow us to work as before,” he said.

He said that the sawmillers will continue to press for the removal of the LCDS restrictions.

They also expect the support of allied business organizations in their quest to have them reviewed and removed.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 17

Page 18

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

ALBERT BALDEO LEADS FIGHT FOR COMMUNITY’S EMPOWERMENT …AS GUYANESE IN NY HONOR DR. KING’S BIRTHDAY District and Community Leader, Albert Baldeo, recently led an altruistic coalition of community activists consisting of Chuck Mohan, Kris Gounden, John Albert, Jerry Vattamala, Garth Marchant, Everly Brown, Dhanasar Singh and others, and testified before the NYC Districting Commission, fighting for the residents living in Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park and Ozone Park to have representation in the New York City Council.

New City Council Districts, based on the new Census figures, will be drawn for the next 10 years.

They showed how the area, commonly referred to as “Little Guyana” because of the overwhelming numbers of people who migrated from Guyana in large numbers in recent years and settled there, has been deprived of fair and

Albert Baldeo (L), and community activists keep their message clear to the Commission effective representation due to its division into several federal, state and city districts, leaving residents fragmented and marginalized.

They also highlighted common problems of home foreclosures, poor health care and education,

unemployment, increased taxes and the cost of living, and the lack of government services and funding. Baldeo prevented the threatened closure of the area’s two High Schools-John Adams and Richmond Hill High S c h o o l s l a s t y e a r. T h e

group also threatened legal action for breaches of the NYC Charter and the Voting Rights Act. The State Commission (LATFOR), has already drawn a South Asian/Indo Caribbean Assembly district for the area, due to the efforts

of these advocates and others, and are hoping that the entire community and future generations once again benefit from their efforts at the City level.

“It is important that we continue the fight for recognition and

representation as Americans, and we should always be inspired by the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and what he made possible for minorities in the USA, as we celebrate his life on this auspicious day,” Baldeo remarked.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 19

Measures needed to improve health, education for the deaf In the quest to put an end to discrimination levelled against persons who are deaf, there are a number of measures that must be put in place. This is according to deaf advocate, Pastor Lawrence Hallahan, who currently heads the Guyana Deaf Mission which is situated at Lot 8 Vlissingen and D’Andrade Street, Newtown, Georgetown.

Speaking to the various forms of discrimination Hallahan related that education for the deaf is one of the key areas that must be addressed even as he pointed out that moves are already being made by the Education Ministry to take action in this regard.

He explained that there are two main ways that education for the deaf can be improved.

He pointed to the placement of a deaf child in a hearing classroom along with an interpreter, so as to ensure that the child is not left out from the lessons being taught. Another major way of addressing the deaf dilemma, Hallahan said that efforts can be engaged to establish a

school exclusively for deaf students.

In such a school he said that “there can be both deaf and hearing teachers but all must know sign language and every subject must be taught using sign language.” He explained that while subjects like English and Science will also be taught they must be able to reflect the essence of the subject areas using sign language to aid learning.

Teachers in these areas must however, be very well trained said Hallahan, who related that “what we need in the education system is a large pool of persons who know sign language well so that the deaf students are not left behind.”

He emphasised the notion that training in sign language for teachers is one of the prime factors that must be embraced by the Ministry of Education if deaf education is expected to improve. “ We ( G u y a n a D e a f Mission) have been involved in two programmes to develop interpreters in the past...one of them needs to

be revived this was due to funding,” said Hallahan who currently offers sign language classes through the Guyana Deaf Mission.

As it relates to health, the Deaf Advocate said that discrimination occurs in such a way that hearing people do not even notice. He alluded to the fact that some deaf persons are completely disregarded by health officials when they attempt to seek medical attention.

“When a deaf person goes to a doctor, they take a relative of theirs and the doctor talks to the relative who receives the tablets (medication) and hands it to the deaf person and say take these every day.

The deaf person is completely left out of the conversation. I know this because of my experiences as an interpreter dealing with a deaf person.”

“The doctor always tries to talk with me and I am saying don’t talk to me; this person is the patient ...I tell them directly I’ll sign for them many times...So this is a serious problem and it is a serious

Pastor Lawrence Hallahan signing to a deaf Corine Hunte issue that the Ministry of Health needs to address,” said Hallahan.

With the passage of the

Disability Act in 2010, discrimination of persons with varying forms of disability has been outlawed and

therefore measures must be put in place to arrest forms of discrimination. Hallahan emphasised.

Page 20

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Privileges Committee meeting aborted - Dr Vindhya Persaud replaces Rohee The first meeting of the Parliamentary Privileges Committee set up to determine if the National Assembly has the power to prevent a member from speaking came to an abrupt end yesterday to allow for court proceedings to be completed.

The committee was set up

by Speaker Raphael Trotman given persistent calls by the Opposition for Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee to step down as Minister and be barred from speaking in the House.

But at the first meeting yesterday, committee members engaged in a lot of back and forth about how to proceed given pending court battles on Rohee. As a result Trotman was left with no other option than to call off the meeting to await clarifications.

Kaieteur News understands that the opposition alliance APNU and the government both agreed that there was no basis for a meeting at this time since the matter is before the courts.

The oppositioncontrolled National Assembly

has voted that it has noconfidence in Minister Rohee and on this basis Opposition Leader David Granger has brought another motion seeking to have Rohee banned from speaking in the House.

However, Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang recently ruled that the National Assembly has no right to prevent any member from speaking in the House. Chang stayed clear of ruling on whether Rohee could speak as Minister of the Government.

The Speaker has said that he plans to seek clarification on the ruling and for the Court of Appeal to decide once and for all whether the courts can meddle in the business of the National Assembly and in fact dictate what should happen in Parliament Chambers. The Attorney G e n e ral plans to file a counter-appeal.

Given the resort to the courts therefore, Attorney General Anil Nandlall had written to the Clerk asking for the meeting of the Committee to be “aborted permanently” or be “adjourned indefinitely.”

Nandlall wanted just for the Committee of Selection to meet and elect a new member after Minister Rohee resigned from the Committee.

The Committee of Selection did meet and the government named Dr Vindhya Persaud to replace Minister Rohee.

Shortly after, Persaud showed up for the meeting that Nandlall was trying to put off.

The Speaker had ruled that since the Committee of Privileges was going to meet and decide on the matter, Rohee would not be allowed to introduce new laws in the House.

That ruling did not mean that Rohee could not speak on any matter if he wished to.

In fact, Rohee retained his right to vote in the House and did so on several occasions after the ruling. So his rights as a Parliamentarian were not taken away.

The Committee of Privileges has been set up to determine what, if any, are the powers of the National Assembly to sanction a Member of Parliament, who is a Minister appointed by the President, for failing to resign

Parliamentarian Dr Vindhya Persaud arrives for the first meeting of the Privileges Committee. following the adoption of a Motion of No-Confidence in him.

If the Committee does conclude that the National Assembly can sanction a member, it would then have to determine what sanctions including, preventing the Minister from speaking, are available to the National Assembly.

The Opposition Leader is

arguing that while the constitution allows any member of the Assembly to introduce laws or propose motions for debate, the constitution also provides for the National Assembly to regulate its own procedure and may make rules for that purpose.

On July 30, last year, the National Assembly passed a motion of No Confidence in

Rohee and called for his immediate removal and dismissal from office.

Standing Order No. 47 Rule 10 of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly provides that “Nothing in this Standing Order shall be taken to deprive the Assembly of the power of proceeding against any Member according to any Resolution of the Assembly.”

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Jamaican Consultants conduct training for Criminal and Civil Justice Committees The Modernisation of the Justice Administration System (MJAS) Project yesterday held a training session for representatives of justice sector institutions on the establishment of Criminal and Civil Justice Committees.

The training was facilitated by Consultants, Dr. Trevor Hamilton and Dr. Winston Mc Calla from Hamilton, Brown-Hamilton and Associates, Attorneysat-Law and Business Advisors in Jamaica.

The Civil and Criminal Justice Committees were established to strengthen the accountability and service delivery in the justice sector; enhance linkages and coordination within justice sector institutions; improving access to justice; facilitate coordination and cooperation among institutions responsible for all aspects of the justice system and ensure that the institutions involved in the justice system work more efficiently and effectively.

The training focused on the role of the Committees; structures and reporting relationships; guidelines for conducting the affairs of the committee and performance framework for the committees.

It has been recognised that the current issues in

Criminal cases are delays in the completion of cases, number of adjournments; lengthy time for trials; overcrowding of prisons; improved computerization of records; and alternative sentencing options. While the current issues in the Civil Justice system are: Delays in trials, this would necessitate the expansion of mediation and improved computerization of records.

The functions of the Criminal Justice Committees are to advise on all programmes and policy matters pertaining to the criminal justice area; serve as a focal point for leadership, guidance, coordination, development and implementation of reform programmes and activities in criminal justice area; develop, review and make recommendations for the improvement of the criminal justice system; the promotion of the inter-governmental and inter-agency cooperation and coordination; and promote public awareness of the issues, alternatives and goals in the criminal justice area among others.

The role of the Civil Justice Committees is to review mechanisms for reducing court delays; to encourage mediation and to

provide and disseminate information countrywide on the mediation court and its value; to recommend changes in the law where considered appropriate; to monitor the implementation of proposed changes; to promote awareness of civil justice, in particular improving access to advice and early intervention in dispute resolution and to facilitate participation of court users and other stakeholders in civil justice among others.

The Chancellor of the Judiciary will be the head of the Committees which will comprise representatives from the public, private and civil society sectors drawn from the counties of Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice and their involvement is voluntary.

It is expected that these Committees will assist in enabling more speedy trials in courts; a just, efficient court system which is accessible to the wider community and which delivers timely and fair results; widespread use of information technology to facilitate accessibility; support initiatives to minimize cost and delay in civil and criminal matters and greater involvement and awareness of the community in the administration of justice.

Page 21

Cousins in court over “break in” allegation Leon Sealey took his 24year-old cousin to court after he accused him of breaking into his home and stealing some $590,000 worth of cash and jewelry.

The accused, Quincy Williams pleaded not guilty to the break and enter charge when he appeared before Magistrate Allan Wilson.

The court heard that on January 16, at Lot 7 Joseph Pollydore Street, Lodge, Williams allegedly broke and entered Sealey’s home and stole $60,000 in local currency, US$900 , a gold chain, a gold band and four gold rings valued at $350,000.

The defendant was represented by Attorney-atLaw, Paul Fung –A- Fat. Fung-A- Fat told the court that his client vehemently denies the charges. The lawyer asserted that the police did not procure a caution statement from the defendant neither was he placed on an identification parade. As such, the lawyer asked that his client be released on bail However Police Prosecutor, Kerry Bostwick told the court that the defendant was positively identified by at least two eyewitnesses, who saw him go into the house on the day

of the incident.

Bostwick further told the court that the accused and the plaintiff once shared the same home, giving him knowledge on how to gain entry to the said house.

Furthermore, the prosecutor asked that if bail should be granted that it be on condition that Williams lodge his travel document and report to a given police station on a regular basis.

Williams was nevertheless refused bail until January 30. He is expected to make his next appearance before the Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine –Beharry.

Bandits beat businesswoman after robbery Up to press time last evening doctors at the Balwant Singh Hospital were still performing surgery on businesswoman Seelochanie Budhoo of Hanam Street, Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara.

Budhoo was severely beaten by four armed bandits who stormed her home on Sunday evening. The police have reported that the incident occurred around

19:00hrs. According to the police, the woman was held up by the men in her living room and ordered to lie on the floor. The men then tied her hands and dealt her several kicks about her body and took away $3.8 million that was in a bedroom and escaped.

The woman’s brother, John Persaud, told Kaieteur News yesterday that his sister was beaten so terrible that her jaw and nose are broken. She

also sustained injuries to both eyes. He said that her entire face is swollen. Persaud said that from what he was told his sister was outside on her porch speaking with a neighbour.

After speaking with the neighbour she returned inside her home. It is believed that as she entered her home the bandits pounced on her.

Investigations into the incident are continuing.

Page 22

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

GECOM begins Fourth Continuous Registration Cycle In keeping with the National Registration Act, the fourth cycle of Continuous Registration kicked into motion yesterday. The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) said anyone who will be 14 years or older by June 30, 2013, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalization, or is a citizen from a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for one year or more is eligible for registration during this registration exercise.

According to GECOM, Section 6 (5) of the National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08 makes it obligatory for persons who meet the registration criteria to apply for registration. Further it noted that Section 6 (6) of the same Act, Chapter 19:08, provides that persons eligible for registration could be prosecuted, fined or even sent to prison for failing or refusing to apply for registration.

It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to ensure that the eligible children in their charge apply for registration, the statement added. It was also amplified that ”it is the civic duty of all Guyanese who meet the eligibility requirements to apply for registration during this fourth Cycle of Continuous Registration.

“By so doing, you would (i) be taking the required step towards being issued a National Identification Card upon completion of the registration process, and (ii) be included in the Official

Lists of Electors for future elections, if you meet the other eligibility criteria.”

During the exercise persons eligible for registration are required to visit the Registration Office that is responsible for their areas of residence to apply for registration. Applications for registration, it noted, can be made accordingly at the respective 27 GECOM Permanent Registration Offices across the country or at the relevant Temporary Registration Offices. There are 49 established Temporary Registration Offices across the 10 administrative Regions to make opportunities for registration easily accessible.

According to GECOM persons who are already registered can apply for a name change if they have changed their name(s) by marriage or Deed Poll since they were registered or apply for correction(s) if there is incorrect information on their National ID Card.

Additionally, persons who are already registered could request that their photographs be retaken if the quality of the photograph on their ID cards are unacceptable, or collect their new ID cards if they have not yet done so.

In order to apply for registration, eligible persons must be in possession of the necessary source documents, to facilitate the process. These documents could be an original Birth Certificate issued by the General Registrar’s Office or a valid Guyana Passport; an

Original Marriage Certificate, and original birth certificate (in the case of a name change by way of marriage), or valid passport that was issued in the married name of the person applying for registration.

Also persons should have Original Deed Poll and original Birth Certificate in the case of any change of name

by Deed Poll. They must also present an Original Naturalization Certificate issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and original birth certificate/valid passport in the case of naturalization.

According to GECOM no photocopies or duplicate of an application having been made for naturalization will be accepted.

All persons who are eligible for registration, but are not in possession of the relevant above stated supporting document(s) are urged to take immediate steps to acquire the said documents, in order to facilitate their respective registration during the current exercise. GECOM has further sought to emphatically state that Baptismal Certificates, expired passports, photocopies of relevant documents or letters from Priests, Elders, Head Masters, Village Captains/Toshaos and Justices of the Peace, and existing ID Cards WILL NOT be acceptable as source documents for registration.

The Registration exercise, according to GECOM, will come to an end on Saturday May 18, 2013.

Nightspot shooter remanded to prison Ryan Busby appeared before Magistrate Allan Wilson yesterday in relation to a shooting outside a city nightspot early Sunday morning. Busby has been charged with unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

According to recent newspaper reports the defendant, a nightspot patron walked out of the city nightspot and pulled from his waist a Glock 19 nine millimeter pistol and discharged a round, during an argument with another person.

The police who raced to the scene after receiving the report of a shooting arrested him with the pistol. He could not produce a licence and was taken to the Brickdam Police Station.

Some were of the opinion

that the shooter must have been an important person because wi t h i n m i n u t e s people were calling the station seeking his release.

Some of the callers were said to be senior police officers.

However Busby remained in custody and appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court yesterday to answer two charges for being an unlicensed firearm holder.

He was remanded to prison despite a bail application by his Attorney Glenn Hanoman.

Subsequent to Busby entering a plea of not guilty to the charge which read on January 20, 2013 at Main Street he had in his possession a Glock 19 nine millimeter pistol and matching rounds of ammunition,

Hanoman made an application for the court to grant the defendant bail at an affordable sum.

Hanoman claimed that his client, 22, of Lot 37 William Street, Kitty was not the person who discharged the loaded firearm in the vicinity of the city nightspot. He instead claimed that police ranks planted the gun on his client after they arrived at the scene of the crime.

However the prosecution, “shot down,” these remarks by the defence.

The prosecution related the facts of the case.

The facts stated, during the police search, the firearm was found in the right side pocket of a quite intoxicated Busby.

The case is adjourned until January 30.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 23

Cotton Tree Murder trial ...

Kaieteur News article led to capture of murder accused court told An article appearing in the Kaieteur News back in December 2009 concerning a missing person (school girl ) led to the capture of a murder accused and his school girl lover in Lethem after they had fled from West Coast of Berbice.

This was revealed in the Berbice High Court during the trial of Nazrudeen Jahoot called “Buddy” of Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice, who is indicted for the murder of one time neighbour Ramlall Mangal called “Ochro” and “Dereck”. The trial is being conducted before Justice Brassington Reynolds and a mixed jury.

An alert police Constable Devon Semple who was stationed at the Lethem police station at the time said t h a t h e s a w t h e g i r l ’s picture in the Kaieteur News on December 30, 2009. He said that the girl was behind a supermarket.

She was hiding.

The policeman said that he approached her and when he enquired what she was

doing there and who she was she lied. She gave her name as Anita Singh and told him that she was 18 years old. He subsequently got hold of Jahoot who told him his name was Vicki, a salesman in the area.

Constable Semple, who was being led by State Prosecutor Prithina Kissoon, stated that based on the information in the Kaieteur News he arrested the two and took them to the Police station.

He then contacted the relevant police station. The girl later confirmed that her name was Lisa Mangal. He subsequently confirmed that the male was Nazrudeen Jahoot who was wanted for murder.

They were later escorted to the Police Headquarters at Eve Leary.

Next on the witness stand was a female Detective corporal who testified to transferring Jahoot from Eve Leary to Fort Wellington police station.

Detective Inspector

Kadarnauth Bejaimal was next to give evidence. He told the court that he took a caution statement from Jahoot who along with Lisa Mangal was taken to the station around midday.

He said that after he cautioned Jahoot and told him of his rights, the accused told him that he understood and said, “Me gon tell yo how me get fo kill Ochro.” He agreed to give a statement which he told him to write.

The inspector also outlined to the court the process under which he obtained the caution statement from the accused.

After the accused read the statement he looked at it for a while and said, “Dah ah the truth.”

Kissoon then asked that the Caution Statement be tendered into evidence, however defense attorney Charrandass Persaud objected stating that his client never affixed his signature to the document.

Justice Reynolds in his ruling stated that he was

satisfied as far as the law is concerned that the statement was free and voluntary.

However on the issue of fact it is a matter for the jury to decide. The statement was then read. According to information Mangal was allegedly stabbed to death around midday during a fight,

which ended in a trench. The man allegedly crawled out and sat on a bench outside his home where he allegedly bled to death.

The accused, who was 18 at the time of the crime, fled to Lethem and was cohabiting with the victim’s daughter in Lethem when he was arrested.

They were arrested and brought to the coast where he was questioned. He gave a statement telling the officers how he killed “Ochro.”

The trial is expected to continue today when Defence council Charrandass Persaud will begin his cross examination of the witnesses.

Page 24

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Post mortem confirms Berbice Govt. to use police to enforce use of market tarmacs wife killer drank poison A post mortem examination performed on the body of New Amsterdam, Berbice wife killer, Narendra Thakoor, has confirmed that the man did drink poison after hacking 28-year-old Bhanmattie Bacchus to death.

Thakoor died at the New Amsterdam Hospital, minutes after he was rushed there from the Central Police Station lock-ups where he was being held following the brutal

murder of the mother of two of his children last Wednesday. There was some controversy surrounding the cause of Thakoor’s death, especially since he was discharged from the hospital on his initial visit there, minutes after the killing.

Thakoor was arrested shortly after he was seen fleeing the scene of the murder with a bottle of suspected poison in his hand.

Conflicting address lands man in jail

A 20-year-old man was yesterday denied bail because he could not provide the court with a fixed address.

Devon Baptiste faced Magistrate Allan Wilson at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on a charge that he stole an 8520 model of a Blackberry cellular phone from Mahendra Puran.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

However, the young man when providing the court with his address noted that he lives at Norton Street, Lodge but doesn’t know the Lot

number since he had recently moved there. He opted to give the court another place of residence which he claims his mother occupies.

The prosecution objected to bail based on the nature of the offence and the punishment it attracts.

However the magistrate refused to grant the defendant bail on the sole basis that he was unable to provide the court with a fixed place of abode.

Baptiste is scheduled to make his next court appearance on January 30.

He later told police that he had ingested the poison.

However when he was taken to the hospital, he was sent away by medical personnel there who claimed that he was okay.

Hours later, while in police custody, Thakoor started to vomit, and was immediately rushed back to the hospital where he eventually succumbed.

Yesterday’s post mortem examinations, which were conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan, revealed that the cause of death of Bhanmattie Devi Bacchus as haemorrhage and shock due to incised wounds.

Bhanmattie Devi Bacchus was attacked and chopped about her body with a cutlass

by Narendra Thakoor last Wednesday at Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Meanwhile, the cause of death of 70-year-old Jasmattie Pooran of Guava Bush, Albion, Corentyne, was given as suffocation.

Pooran’s body was found in her home with her hands tied and mouth gagged on Saturday last.

Enmore market tarmac

The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is set to aggressively pursue relocation of roadside vendors this year to market tarmacs that were constructed and handed over last year.

Speaking on a recent aired programme on the National Communications Network (NCN) Channel 11, Minister in the Ministry, Norman Whittaker, said that the Ministry will be pushing this issue in 2013. It could even seek support from the police, a statement from the government news agency said yesterday.

“We have constructed at much cost, several tarmacs in several regions in the country and we are disturbed that maximum use is not being made of these tarmacs,” the Minister said.

He said that instead of utilising the tarmacs, the vendors have instead continued to vend on road sides, and in some instances on reserves.

In Diamond, East Bank Demerara, like at Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, vendors have been refusing to use the tarmacs.

Minister Whittaker said that the ministry is not prepared to allow this to continue, and

with support from the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) will be putting much focus on the issue.

“We have started to engage the NDCs in some of these areas with respect to engaging these vendors and give them a timeline,” he said.

He further said that if this avenue proves unsuccessful, “we will elicit the support of and the assistance of the police if necessary to have vendors relocated.”

During last year, the ministry handed over about 10 market tarmacs in communities including Diamond/Grove, Best Klien/ Pouderoyen, Toevlugt/Patentia, Charity, Plaisance, Buxton and Haslington.

The Minister said that the significant investments by the Ministry are part of Government’s aim to curb the practice of road side vending, and to achieve the practice of selling in a healthy and conducive environment.

Residents have been putting the tarmacs to other use for football and even cricket matches. Some persons are even learning to drive on the unused structures.

Bridge crash

The driver of this 63 ‘A’ mini bus BKK 2037 lost control and crashed into the Berbice River Bridge, recently, severely damaging his vehicle and snarling traffic for hours. No one was however seriously injured. The police are still investigating.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 25

Page 26

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 27

Bouterse not pleased with Ministers

President Desi Bouterse (centre, foreground) with his Cabinet in May 2012. (dWT photo/ Claudio Barker) (de Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO - President Desi Bouterse is not pleased with the performance of at least five Ministries. It is not certain whether heads will roll, but if need be, this will be used as a last resort.

Coalition sources tell

dWT that at first, the Ministries might be strengthened with commissions. The Ministers rumored to be in the hot seat include Falisi Pinas (TCT), Alice Amafo (Social Affairs), Ginmardo Kromosoeto (RGB), Jim Hok (NH) and Raymond

Sapoen (HI).

In early May of last year, Bouterse replaced five Ministers, while three were given a different Ministry to run. Two Junior Ministers were added to the team as well.

In the meantime, one of the Junior Ministers was

dismissed at his own request late last year after a concession scandal and the remaining one has been switched from Public Works (OW) to Agriculture (LVV).

IDOS POLL On Saturday, SPA chairman Guno Castelen stated that the latest IDOS poll was inspired by the need to have an excuse to dismiss Ministers.

After all, 75% of those polled have stated that they support the President, but are not pleased with the performance of the Cabinet.

The poll allegedly should create room to clean house in late February or early March.

“I’ve heard those rumors too,” says Pertjajah Luhur (PL) chairman Paul Somohardjo, “but the President has not told me anything.” The PL leader says he had a meeting with Bouterse on Saturday evening, but claims this issue was never raised.

SCENARIOS Somohardjo says he has also heard of several

scenarios currently floating around, including a rapprochement between the VHP and NDP in the run-up to the coming elections. The VHP allegedly is no longer happy within the Nieuw Front and Bouterse would also be unhappy with Somohardjo.

Waldi Nain would then be Somohardjo’s counterpart in a new coalition. Somohardjo

then asks which party could be bigger than PL. “When elections approach, many people want to start a political party, and some use the phone book to obtain the required number of members,” Somohardjo says laughing. “But the only parties with some real strength are PL, NDP, VHP, A Combinatie, BEP and NPS.”

Chavez expected to return home from Cuba in ‘coming days’ CARACAS, Venezuela – One of Hugo Chavez’s brothers says the Venezuelan president is expected to return home from Cuba in the coming days as he continues to recover nearly six weeks after undergoing cancer surgery.

Argenis Chavez is one of the president’s five brothers and the president of the National Electric Corporation.

He told The Associated Press that the president

continues to recover.

He said after an event yesterday at the Supreme Court that the decision about when Chavez returns is up to his medical team but that he is expected to return to Venezuela in the “coming days.”

The president hasn’t been seen or spoken publicly since he left for Cuba on Dec. 10 for his fourth cancer-related operation.

Page 28

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Federer and Serena power into quarter-finals MELBOURNE (Reuters) Roger Federer delivered a lesson to the next generation at the Australian Open, extending his record to a 35th consecutive grand slam quarter-final after Serena Williams set up a clash with her would-be successor.

The Swiss maestro sent 22year-old Canadian Milos Raonic packing with a 6-4 7-6 6-2 masterclass under the lights of Rod Laver Arena on Monday, providing a blueprint for Williams ahead of her all-American quarter-final against teenager Sloane Stephens.

The 31-year-old Williams appeared in little need for tips, however, as she demolished Maria Kirilenko 6-2 6-0 earlier in the evening session to notch her 35th appearance in the last eight of a grand slam.

U.S. Open champion Andy Murray, who like Federer has not lost a set at Melbourne Park, clobbered shattered 14th seed Gilles Simon 6-3 6-1 6-3 to go to within three wins of back-to-back grand slam titles.

Needing a measly 57 minutes to dispatch the 14th-seeded Russian, Williams will face another woman in a hurry in 19-year-old Stephens.

The wise-cracking up-and-comer has been touted as an heir to the 15-

times grand slam champion Williams and burnished her credentials with a poised 6-1 3-6 7-5 win over Serbia’s Bojana Jovanovski in the afternoon sun at Hisense Arena.

Williams has been branded a mentor to the impressive Stephens, whom she beat in the leadup tournament in Brisbane but with a sixth title at Melbourne Park on the line, she quickly backed away from the role. “I don’t know. I mean, I would need a better definition of the word ‘mentor’,” Williams told reporters. “It’s hard to be a real mentor when you’re still in competition.”

DREW STING Federer smacked down Australian upstart Bernard Tomic in three sets in the previous round, and was in no mood to emulate defending champion Novak Djokovic, who was stuck on center court for five hours the previous night before wearing down Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka.

Federer drew the big-serving Canadian’s sting in a tight second set and romped to victory with 34 sparkling winners to set up a quarterfinal with France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

The 13th seed Raonic, tipped to trouble the heavyweights in years to come, played with a local anaesthetic to ease the pain of a foot injury, and

nearly pulled out of the match.

Britain’s Murray derived little joy from his win over Simon, with the Frenchman reduced to a staggering wreck in the closing stages.

Simon had been exhausted by compatriot Gael Monfils in a fiveset marathon in his previous match and could do little more than stick out his racket and hope as he slumped to his 10th straight loss to the Scot.

Four Frenchmen advanced to the last 16 at Melbourne Park for the first time since 1998 and 36thranked Chardy kept the flag waving with a 5-7 6-3 6-2 6-2 win over 21st seeded Italian Andreas Seppi.

That secured Chardy’s maiden grand slam quarter-final and ensured France would have two men in the last eight, with seventh seed Tsonga grinding down ninthseeded compatriot Richard Gasquet 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-2.

Unfancied and unseeded, the scruffy-bearded Chardy stunned sixth seed Juan Martin del Potro in his previous match and said he had nothing to lose against Murray, who he beat in straight sets in Cincinnati last year after losing all four of their previous matches.

World number one Victoria Azarenka was back at her ruthless best in a 6-1 6-1 demolition of 47th-

Serena Williams (left) will face Sloane Stephens in the next round. ranked Russian Elena Vesnina after being taken the distance in her previous match byAmerican Jamie Hampton.

She faces a stiffer challenge in the quarter-finals against another Russian in Svetlana Kuznetsova, who sent 10th seed Caroline Wozniacki spinning out of the tournament and out of the top 10 when the next round of rankings are released.

Kuznetsova, the 2004 U.S. Open champion and winner at Roland Garros in 2009, spent much of last year on crutches with a knee injury, and was thrilled to secure her third quarter-final at Melbourne Park.

Roger Federer (AP)

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 29

Ramdin credits team Lionel D’Andrade defends T&T Int’l work for 3-peat Denesh Ramdin poses with the CT20 trophy. (WICB)

ROS ISLET, St Lucia – Captain Denesh Ramdin has attributed team work as the main reason behind Trinidad and Tobago’s historic milestone after they blew away Guyana to win the Caribbean T20 title for a third consecutive year.

Ramdin says different players stepped up at different times during the tournament including during Sunday’s final where the Trinidadians crushed Guyana by 9 wickets.

“That’s what team is all about,” declared an elated Ramdin after the game.

“Different guys for different occasions.

Everyone did their part”. Fireworks lit up the sky over the Beausejour playing field as the winners celebrated in front a large audience that included about 300 Trinidadians who flew into to Castries on a chartered flight to back their team. A victory lap was followed by an energetic live - band performance from Dwayne Bravo who grabbed the lead microphone and thrilled the crowded with his enthusiastic hip gyrations.

“It’s amazing three in a row Bish,” said Ramdin in an interview with former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop.

“It was fantastic. Winning the toss was important. Going out there and executing our plans, picking up early wickets. We have a great bunch of guys. I can’t ask for more”.

Half Marathon title

G

The defending champions restricted Guyana to a woeful 116 for six off their 20 overs and then cruised to their target with over seven overs remaining.

Their run chase was highlighted by a 52run stand off 32 balls between Lendl Simmons and Evin Lewis who made 52 and 32 respectively. “We can’t take away anything from Trinidad. They played some good cricket throughout the tournament, “said Veerassamy Permaul, the Guyanese captain.

“We really never had a momentum. We never had any significant partnerships going and we kept losing wickets at crucial stages”.

Lionel D’Andrade wins the T&T Half Marathon Sunday.

G

uyana’s L i o n e l D’Andrade is on a roll early in his 2013 season after defending his Trinidad and Tobago International Half Marathon title on Sunday.

D’Andrade had also won the Suriname 10km Road Race for the third time two weeks ago.

“Despite the fact that I twisted my ankle one week prior to the race yesterday (Sunday), I ran a warm-up 5k on Saturday and I felt good for the Half Marathon,” D’Andrade told this newspaper yesterday, after beating 298 athletes on Sunday.

D ’ A n d r a d e completed the race in 1:20.02, split seconds ahead of Trinidad’s Kade Sobers, who ran 1:20.15 for second and Shirvan Baboolal who was third with 1:22.09 respectively.

Trinidad and Tobago’s ace, Tonya Nero won the female race in 1:23.42 with the United States’ Michelle La Fleur (1:25.32) second and Jenelle Nedd (1:34.07) third.

Page 30

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Mad rush for... Thirteen Guyanese on 2013 FIFA Referees...

From page 32 winner of this competition walks away with a cash prize that could amount to thousands of dollars.

GASP will match the total entrance fee and the three top finishers will share the loot.

Additionally, the best competitor outside the top 10 will receive a

special prize. The entrance fee is $700 but executives will accord a bonus to those players arriving before the registration period gets underwayat09:45hrs.Thoseplayers will enjoy a $200 discount while late comers will also start at a disadvantage as their clocks will be started in their absence.

From page 37 officials in their respective future endeavours.

The local governing body will recognize Ferreira-James and Hamid for their contributions to the game locally, regionally and internationally.

Ferreira-James has been

appointed to the Caribbean Football Union Referees Committee and will serve until 2016, while Hamid has been appointed to the GFF Referees Committee which met last Thursday to chart the way forward for the development of officials.

The GFF Referees Committee is chaired by Wilson with Deputy Chairman being Lawrence Griffith. The other members are Dr. Maxine ParrisAaron, Lindley Langhorne and Carlton Beckles.

APPOINTMENTS The GFF is pleased to an-

nounce that Mr. Sherwin Johnson and Mr. Dion Inniss have been appointed to officiate at the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship from February 18 March 3 in Puebla, Mexico.

The GFF extends best wishes to both officials.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 31

Settle in Seattle an outstanding horse for 2012 have a fantastic year as a two year old although it was among the money with a few wins and its many epic battle with stable mate Storm In a Tea Cup and Serenity of the Jumbo Jet stable. However, venturing into the three year old category, it has taken the racing circuit by storm with win after win.

The animal biggest win was when it moved up in class and competed among the bigger horses and

Settle in Seatle

With the horseracing season coming to a close and all the horses enduring a period of well deserved rest, all the stables, horse owners, grooms and jockeys are in the process of boosting their stocks with new additions, while some are busy examining their animals for bruises, cuts, sprains and any other injuries after a hectic and sometimes eventful 2012.

Others are just simply giving their animals a rest in preparation for the 2013 season which should get started in less than a month’s time.

During 2012 there were some top performers among them was Seattle in Seattle.

Settle in Seattle by now might have settled all doubts that it is one of the top animals in the country, if not the best.

From 9 starts it racked up an outstanding 7 victories, including moving up to capture the Feature B class event once, competing among bigger and older horses.

The animal’s achievement might propel it to be declared the champion animal in Guyana.

By far it was the most successful animal on the racing circuit in Guyana for 2012.

Owned and trained by Mohammed “Nankoo” Shariff of No4 Village West Coast Berbice, the horse is housed at the Shariff Racing Stable and Farm at N06 West Coast Berbice.

Imported from Trinidad as a two year old by the Habibulla Farm some two years ago, Shariff speaking to Kaieteur Sport, stated that, “As soon as I saw the animal, I liked it; I knew it would be a champion.” He stated that his years of experience in the horseracing business, allowed him to know top animals when he sees them, thus the success of his stable in such a short time.

Shariff stated that he has been around for a long time, but had stopped participating and migrated overseas. Back on the racing circuit for about four years now, he has return with a bang. Shariff reminded that he had promised, like any Sheriff, to take charge and is beginning to fulfill his dreams.

Moving in leaps and bounds the Shariff entity has not only been racing horses, but has also been associated with sponsorship, training and breeding of animals.

The stable presently has over 20 horses with about 12 actively racing.

Settle In Seattle did not

captured the B class event and a whopping $1.2M first prize and trophy with a brilliant gate to pole victory last December at the Kennard Memorial Turf Club.

The animal for its exploits during the 2012/2013 season had only two losses.

In fact its only loss as a three year old was to Rock Sonia by a nose in a ding dong battle. It took sweet revenge after that. The other loss was in the B class category after

having a bad start.

The horse trains with its stable mate at the nearby Norman Singh Racing Facility and the man in charge, Zaire Shariff has a number of assistants including a few Jamaicans who add the foreign touch to the stable as they make sure that the animals are well taken care of and groomed. Jockeys Colin Ross and Brian Blake takes turn in whipping the horses into shaped with regular

practice runs.

The Shariff connections have quickly become one of the drawing cards at the races and according to Shariff just how his entity has taken the horseracing scene by storm he is looking for Settle.

In Seattle to do the same in and settle all scores in 2013.

Fans can look forward for an entertaining season in 2013 as the other stables will surely want to challenge.

(Samuel Whyte)

Page 32

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Banks DIH Classic Inter Club Basketball competition...

GVF holds AGM this Sunday at Port Mourant Central New Amsterdam - Gears for busy year squeeze into final

In anticipation of a busy year, the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) will be holding its AGM this Sunday (Jan 27), at the Port MourantTraining Centre in Berbice, starting from 10:00 hrs.

According to a release from the Federation, among the topics to be discussed are the details of the successful engagement between newly elected FIVB President Dr. Ary Graca, CSV executives and GVF President Lennie Shuffler which took place late last year in Rio, Brazil.

The release added that the GVF is gearing for a busy year and will be rolling out its fouryear Development Plan which also includes contributions from the Brazilian Volleyball Federation, one of the leading

Lenox Shuffler countries in all forms of the sport. Shuffler in an invited comment said that once the Plan is approved some of the arrangements could see both

the male and female national teams participate in CSV tournaments with support from FIVB, CSVand CBV, while training for referees, coaches and adminstrators in addition to support for the sport to be played in schools, within communities and the strengthening of beach volleyball are alao part of the Development Plan.

Exchange visits between Block members Amapa,Cayenne, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Roraima, at all levels will be encouraged with Guyana hosting an International Invitational Club Tournament late October or early November 2013. The theme for the development plan is “Development through Activity”.

Touted as the two better teams in the competition, there had to be one winner when Central New Amsterdam faced Smythfield, as the semifinal clash lived up to its pre-match hype with Central Boys holding their nerve to eke out a nerveracking, hard fought one point win to book their place into the final of the inaugural Banks DIH Classic Inter Club Basketball competition.

Central squandered a 12point advantage to eventually squeeze through to a 50-49 win over Smythfield Rockefeller in their semifinal game played on Sunday at the Smythfield Basketball court.

The Central players were out fast and dominated the

first half with some excellent rebounds and fast breaks to take the upper hand as they raced away to a 34-22 lead as Smythfield were caught napping as the large turnout was bracing for a one sided contest.

On the resumption a rejuvenated Smythfield Rockefeller came rocking and rolling, surging forward and taking the game to their Central opponents outhustling them at their own game. It was like two different teams participating in the second half with reverse roles.

However their desperate efforts were not enough, falling just short by one point.

Top scoring for Central was Jevon Vanderstoop with 15 points, while national

player Randy Richardson assisted with 10 points.

Michael Bowen with 13 points and Edmond Semple 10 were the top shooters for Smythfield.

The competition will continue on Sunday 27th with the other semifinal game which has been switched to the Fyrish Basketball court. In that game the Fyrish Black Sharks will be looking to use their home advantage to out maneuver the Rose Hall Town combination in their quest to reach the final. Jump ball time is 16:00hrs.

According to coordinator Vibert Garrett a date and venue for the finals will be decided shortly.

(Samuel Whyte)

Mad rush for honours as GASP stages Scrabble Scramble competition As Muslims prepare to celebrate Youman Nabi on Thursday January 24 next, the Guyana Association of Scrabble Players (GASP) will open their yearly itinerary with

a senior open tournament dubbed, ‘Scrabble Scramble’ at the Malteenoes Sports Club, Thomas lands, on that holiday.

Indeed, one could expect stiff competition, as has

always been the case. It seems also, that the ploys of the executive to identify and reward the best player outside of the top ten rankings, has paid off with many of these

players now posing a threat to the dominance of the seasoned and established players. As such, players the likes of Moen Gafoor, Leon Belony, Abigail McDonald

and Fred Collins among others will have to be wary of Grace Hercules, Maurice Munroe and Wayne Cave among others who have benefited immensely from the

aforementioned ploy.

Whereas during the past year players have been competing for trophies and other lucrative prizes, the (Continued on page 30)

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

WICB rejects Grenada’s change of venue ST.GEORGE’S, Grenada - The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has rejected a request from the Grenada Cricket Association (GCA) for a possible change in venue for next month’s three One Day international matches between Zimbabwe and West Indies carded for Grenada.

The Cricket Association here says it had written to the WICB requesting that it considers a new venue for the games in light of General Elections carded February 19th. However the WICB says its decision to leave the matches in St.George’s was based on a report from the Royal Grenada Police force.

“The board of directors accepted the recommendation that the matches should be hosted in Grenada based on the written report received from the Grenada Commissioner of Police…,” said WICB’s letter to sports minister Patrick Simmons following a board meeting in St. Lucia over the weekend.

“We confirm that the

Page 33

Cyclists gearing up for a hectic 2013 - season pedals off on Saturday

matches scheduled for Grenada will remain schedule in Grenada” the letter further stated.

Zimbabwe’s tour of the Caribbean, February 22nd to March 20th, comprises two Tests, three One-Day Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals.

The ODI’s are carded for the National stadium in St.George’s but the association was suggesting a possible switch to Antigua.

Police Commissioner Willan Thompson has given the assurance that adequate security will be in place for the games.

“Be advised that the Royal Grenada Police Force will provide adequate security for players and patrons for all matches to be hosted by the Grenada Cricket association in conjunction with the West Indies cricket board” Commissioner Thompson said in a letter to the sports minister.

The 2013 cycling season is set to commence on Saturday and a packed programme of activities is anticipated for the remainder of the season.

Activities will get underway with the 20th Ricks and Sari Agro Industries 11race Meet starting at 09:00hrs at the Inner Circuit of the National Park, Guyana’s only track of this nature.

This annual event is expected to attract all the leading riders from the various clubs around the country as they seek to get their respective quests for glory off to a positive start.

According to organizer, National Coach, Hassan Mohamed, an exciting day of races is anticipated as all the cyclists will be eager to start the year on a winning note.

Alonzo Greaves will look to defend his title in the feature 35-lap School Boys

and Invitational race which he won in a time of One Hour, 19 Minutes, 10 Seconds in 2012.

However, it will not be an easy task for Greaves, as seasoned riders, the likes of Robin Persaud, Marlon Williams, Geron Williams and Enzo Matthews will all be harbouring similar thoughts.

The younger brigade, Paul DeNobrega, Raynauth Jeffrey, Michael Anthony and Raul Leal have shown what they can all do and will no doubt be the ones to watch out for. This quartet took the Caribbean by storm at the junior and juvenile levels in 2012 and will be the riders to beat in 2013 once they remain committed.

Michael Anthony will defend the Juvenile trophy won last year at this Meet while the resolute Junior Niles will start as the odds on favourite to successfully

defend the Veterans Under-50 trophy.

As has been his aim for the past years, Mohamed has once again stated that he is seeking to raise the bar with regards to the number of Meets he organized in 2012; having achieved some 37 last year. He however notes that achieving a greater number of events can only be attained through solid support from corporate Guyana.

The national coach said companies and individuals have been very generous in sponsoring events under his purview over the years, but added that more sponsorship will mean additional avenues for the riders to showcase their talents and develop.

Representatives of Ricks and Sari Agro Industries are expected to be on hand to assist in the presentation of prizes to the top performers on Saturday.

Page 34

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

China votes Usain as 2012 Titan Sportsman of the Year Usain Bolt

The winners of the “2012 Titan Sportsman of the Year” hosted by Titan Sports Media Group was announced on December 19 last.

There are two categories voted by specialist panels, including the Chinese Sportsman of the Year and the International Sportsman of the Year. Sun Yang,Ye Shiwen and Lin Dan wrap up top 3 in the Chinese field, and the International winners are Usain Bolt, Lionel Messi and the Spanish National Football Team. As the result, it is the best expression to the Olympic motto “Citius, Altius, Fortius” that two gold medalists Sun Yang and Usain Bolt are named as Titan Sportsman of the Year in the year of Olympics.

It has been four years since the awards were established in 2009. The previous winners were Zhang Lin and Messi in 2009, Shen Xue/Zhao Hongbo and Rafael Nadalin 2010, and Li Na and Novak Djokovic in 2011.

The Nominees of the 2012 Chinese Titan Sportsman of the Year include Sun Yang, Ye Shiwen, Lin Dan, Xu Lijia, Zhang Jike, Beijing Men’s Basketball Team, Zhou Shiming, Chinese National Gymnastics Team, Feng Shanshan, and Lei Sheng.

Correspondingly, the Nominees of the International Titan Sportsman of the Year are Usain Bolt, Lionel Messi, LeBron James, Jeremy Lin, Michael Phelps, Didier Drogba,

Andrew Murray, Spanish National Football Team, Sebastian Vettel, and Rory McIlroy.

The selection process has lasted about one month since November 23. For both Chinese and International Titan Sportsman of the Year, each ten nominees are chosen by the special panels, including 100 Chinese sports media people from TV, print, internet.

In addition, there are five famous international sports journalists from L’Equipe,Corriere dello Sport,Marca, Sports Illustrated, and The Daily Telegraph.

The rules allow each voter chooses three nominees, and points are awarded as follows: 5 points for a first place in a voters’ list, 3 points for second, 1 point for third. In the Chinese selection, 73 voters chose Sun Yang.

46 of them put him in the first place, with 23 in second and 4 in third. Eventually Sun Yang won by total points of 303.

Coincidentally, in the international selection Usain Bolt has received exactly the same 303 points, which is enough to put him on the top of the list. There are 79 voters in favor of the Lightning Bolt, with 45 in the first place, 22 in second and 12 in third. Lionel Messi, who has just finished 91 goals in 2012, incredibly breaking the record of most goal scored in a year, ranked second. (usainbolt.com)

GABA Elections set for Saturday Following Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) VicePresident, Kester Gomes’ assertion last week in an interview with this newspaper that the future of the association is in the affiliated clubs’ hands, an AGM and Elections will be held Saturday.

Gomes told Kaieteur Sport yesterday that a meeting was held yesterday among the clubs and it is decided that the new Executive will be elected at 3pm tentatively at the Mecca of local basketball which is the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The current only executive of the association following widespread

resignations last year, which had also included former President, David Carto, asked all fourteen affiliated clubs to submit their nomination for President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer/ Secretary before the end of Wednesday (tomorrow).

Each club is required to have two representatives at the meeting.

Gomes is the last man standing following the resignation of new President, David Carto, in April last year, and the resignation of all the other Executives during the course of the year. Gomes had no choice but to rally the association until another election.

The GABA last held elections in February of 2011 and the constitutional life of the Executive is two years, which means that elections were due next month. “After the meeting on Sunday, there was a decision to bring forward the AGM and Elections,” Gomes said.

Carto had stepped down from the post, citing what others referred to as ‘personal reasons’ when contacted last year. His move came in the middle of an extensive and impressive GABA League, which was aimed at resuscitating interest in the sport in Georgetown.

Carto had taken over the position in 2011 form popular local designer, Trevor Rose.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

100mph World Cup downhill ski barrier broken by Johan Clarey

Johan Clarey became the first person to break the 100mph barrier French skier Johan Clarey became the first person to break the 100mph barrier during a World Cup race.

The 32-year-old clocked 100.6mph during the Wengen downhill in Switzerland, but could only finish fifth in the race, won by Italian Christof Innerhofer. The previous record of 98mph, set by Italian Stefan Thanei in 2005, was beaten four times during the weekend.

Swiss Carlo Janka recorded 98.66mph then Canada’s Benjamin Thomsen 99.3mph and Austrian Hannes Reichelt 99.6mph.

Clarey predicted he would “hold this record for a long time now”. Innerhofer was

fastest overall down the 2.7mile Lauberhorn course, the longest on the World Cup circuit, in two minutes, 29 seconds.

Klaus Kröll of Austria was second 0.30 seconds behind, while his team-mate Reichelt was third.

The historic Lauberhorn run combines high levels of speed and difficulty in navigating a tricky and energy-sapping course.

It was clear the conditions were right for a speed record after Switzerland’s Janka set a new mark by clocking 158.77 kph (98.66 mph) in the downhill leg of the supercombined event on Friday.

Then on Saturday, the

hard packed snow and good visibility contributed to the record-breaking speeds being reached.

Clarey added: “It’s a good feeling. I felt it was faster than in training and it wasn’t scary.

It’s a little thing in the race but I’m happy to have it.”

More than 30,000 fans were watching as Innerhofer took the honours.

“It’s amazing winning at Wengen. It wasn’t dangerous.

I know people speak a lot about safety, but it’s downhill.”

In the World Cup standings, Marcel Hirscher of Austria currently heads the leaderboard for men and Tina Maze of Slovenia, the women.

From inspirational tale to work of fiction:

Australian library re-shelves Armstrong books after doping confession Daily Mail - Lance Armstrong’s fall from grace after admitting to using performanceenhancing drugs shows no signs of slowing.

The professional cycling fraternity has shunned him, the sponsors have dropped him and just about everyone else he’s ever crossed is about to sue him.

And now, his books - once an inspirational story of how to overcome adversity - have been re-shelved and re-categorised from ‘must-read autobiography’ to ‘fiction.’

Manly Library in Sydney, Australia caused a few smirks after they moved three Armstrong titles this weekend.

A sign at reception read: ‘All non-fiction Lance Armstrong titles, including ‘Lance Armstrong: Images Of A Champion,’ ‘The Lance Armstrong Performance Program’ and ‘Lance Armstrong: World’s Greatest Champion,’ will soon be moved to the fiction section.’

I wonder how many people will be suddenly very keen to find out what ‘The Lance Armstrong Performance Program’ involves.

It comes as Armstrong, 41, took to the Oprah Winfrey chat show in the United States to come clean about being at the centre of one of the most sophisticated doping programmes in the history of sport and appealed for forgiveness from the public.

In a sensational interview, broadcast late last week, Armstrong, the seven-time Tour de France champion, admitted to taking

performance-enhancing drugs during the most successful part of his career.

But his confession came with a belief that he should be given a second chance to compete.

Today, disgraced former sprinter Ben Johnson said that Armstrong will be quickly forgiven by the American public following his admission.

Johnson, who was stripped of his 100m gold medal from the 1988 Seoul Olympics after testing positive for anabolic steroids, said ‘It’s going to be fine for him in a few months.’

Page 35

Page 36

Zambia's keeper Kennedy Mweene dives to save a penalty kick from Ethiopia's Saladin Said (AP)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Zambia 1 Ethiopia 1: Holders held by 10-men... but keeper shown red while on a stretcher!

Daily Mail - Zambia’s title defence started with a stutter after they wasted a 1-0 lead and missed a penalty against Ethiopia, who had their keeper Jemal Tassew sent off after just 37 minutes as they celebrated their first match in the tournament for 50 years.

Collins Mbesuma scored the opener for the 2012 winners after he raced onto a through ball, beating the defence and fired his halfvolley into the bottom corner, but it was all-square when Ethiopia’s captain Adane Girma found the net at the near post.

Bizarrely, Tassew saw red while being taken off on a stretcher, after haring out to the ball and flattening Zambia’s Chisamba Lungu a full 40 yards from his goal.

Tassew’s sending off caused an 11-minute delay as the Group C match descended into near chaos with angry Ethiopian fans throwing bottles and vuvuzelas on to the pitch.

They were already upset after their key player Saladin Seid missed a penalty in the 25th minute having already been deprived of an earlier goal when the ball bounced over an open goal on the hard surface.

Ethiopia made a bright start to their first game in the finals for 31 years and midfielder Minyahile Teshone should have put them ahead after four minutes but somehow hooked a great chance over the crossbar.

In the 17th minute Zambia keeper Kennedy Mweene was caught out and the ball fell to Seid who found himself

with an open goal but his hooked shot towards the gaping net bizarrely bounced over the bar.

Seid had another chance to score eight minutes later when Gabon referee Otogo Castane awarded Ethipoia a penalty after Lungu fouled Seid, but Mweene easily saved his poor kick.

The game then took an unedifying turn after 32 minutes when Tassew raced out of his goal and poleaxed Chisamba Lungu with a reckless tackle which evoked memories of the infamous foul West German goalkeeper Harald Schumacher performed on France’s Patrick Battiston in the 1982 World Cup semi-final.

After an 11-minute stoppage allowing treatment to the goalkeeper, the referee waited until Tassew was on the stretcher before showing him a red card - provoking the Ethiopian fans to throw missiles on the pitch and an official to run on the field and remonstrate with the referee.

Just to add to the mayhem a jet fighter buzzed the stadium before order was finally restored.

Apart from Tassew’s rash attack, and some panicky moments in defence, Ethiopia played some neat football against the champions who paid for not taking their chances.

GBFA/Banks DiH Coca Cola Beach Football League...

Four teams register wins Four teams were victorius when play in the GBFA/ Banks DiH Coca Cola Beach Football League which continued on Saturday, at the Bayroc Sand Reserve ground in Linden.

In the first game, the youthfull Silvertown Allstars came from behind to defeat Alikyu 2-3 with Mark Hope hitting in a double and Jamal Haynes solitary strike helped cancel out the early efforts of Kevin Croal and Andel Norville for Alikyu.

In the second match, Wisroc defeated defending champs Vasco 6 -2 with a hattrick from Deshawn Joseph, while Omeion Wills netted a brace and Colric Beckles the other goal.

Vasco got their goals off the boots of Ameer Allicock.

On Sunday, Timehri Panthers were blown away by a rampant Cool Runnings 11 2. Debutants Timehri Panthers playing for the first in this format of the game went ahead first through Orin Steele, who ended with a pair, but after that Marlon Benjamin 3 goals, Keon Sears, also with 3, Rawle Gittens 2 and one apiece for Jermaine Grandison, Ralph Alexander and Travis Bess, completed their tally.

Timerhi Panthers returned later to trash Vasco in the Cup segment of the tournament 41 with 2 goals each from Dexroy Adams and Steve Gibson, while Mark Moses netted the lone goal for Vasco.

The competion continues on Thursday, at the Bayroc Sand Reserve from 16:00 hrs.

Tuesday January 22, 2013

Kaieteur News

Page 37

Thirteen Guyanese on 2013 FIFA Referees List Sherwin Moore & Deon Feassal are first timers G u y a n a ’s R e f e r e e s continues to hold their own in the football world with a total of thirteen (13) making the 2013 FIFA International List.

Among these officials are first timers Sherwin Moore (Referee) and Deon Feassal who has been appointed as one of two Futsal Referees, the other is Roy Mc Arthur.

Heading the Referees List is Stanley Lancaster, Sherwin Johnson and the lone Female, Nicola Joseph.

The Assistant Referees are Dion Inniss, Venton Mars, Rollin Tappin and Trevor Porter.

Female Assistant Referees are Cynette Jeffrey, Odessa Caleb and Nakaysie Liverpool.

President (ag) of the Guyana Football Federation F r a n k l i n Wi l s o n h a s

Nakaysie Liverpool congratulated the officials for being appointed to the FIFA List and challenged them to continue to strive to be the best and to maintain high standards.

Wilson noted that the officials have been rewarded for their commitment and dedication but that the job of keeping themselves in tip-

top shape physically and up to date with the Laws of the Game is continuous.

“I would like to wish our officials the very best during 2013 and to remind them that they will continue to be under the eyes of all and sundry so it is important for you all to be on top of your game. Train hard and consistent and ensure that you attend all the training sessions that would be put on from time to time.

You are the standard bearers for the other officials so I expect you to be positive role models on and off the field of play for the other officials to emulate.”

CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice President Jeffrey Webb, who was part of the FIFA team that visited Guyana recently, also offered congratulations to the officials whom he

Some of the male referees going through their paces ata recent fitness run. was desirous of meeting whilst here but time did not permit.

“I would like to personally offer words of congratulations to the officials on their appointment and to let them know that they must continue to be disciplined

and committed to the sport.

Guyana has a rich legacy in producing top officials and you must all strive to maintain that positive legacy.”

G u y a n a ’s l e a d i n g official Diane FerreiraJames (Referee) and Abdulla Hamid (Assistant Referee)

both hung up their whistles at the end of 2012 after very satisfying careers.

They have both represented this nation with a high degree of success the world over and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) extends best wishes to both (Continued on page 30)

t r o Sp GCB Senior 4-day Inter County tourney Rd 3...

Demerara, President’s XI take 2nd day honours

Chandrika, Barrington hit half centuries, Latcha takes 5

Chanderpaul Hemraj defends during his brief stay at the crease.

By Zaheer Mohamed and were pegged back by purposeful bowling Half centuries by Rajendra Chandrika by the President’s XI. and Shemroy Barrington gave Demerara the They soon lost their skipper Royan upper hand against GT&T Berbice, while Federicks (01) who was bowled by Steven Steven Latcha grabbed 5 wickets for 26 runs Latcha, he failed to trouble the score. Latcha off 22 overs as the President’s XI gained first then accounted for Dillon Heyliger (00) at 24 innings points from Essequibo when play on before Seon Daniels induced Ricardo Adams the second day of the Guyana Cricket Board (01) to nick a delivery to wicket keeper Senior 4-day Inter County tournament Dexter Solomon to leave Essequibo at 31-4. concluded yesterday.

Herry Green and the promising Vijay After bowling out GT&T Berbice for 168 Surajpaul then attempted to repair early in their first innings, Demerara having lost damage with a 5th wicket partnership of 31 Robin Bacchus for 17 the previous day but Latcha stemmed the revival when he resumed on their overnight score of 87-1 with bowled Surajpaul for 05, he then dismissed Chandrika on 46 and Barrington on 17, the Grayson Paul (00) with the score at 62. pair continued to bat sensibly, rotating the Essequibo never really recovered, losing strike and dispatching the bad balls when it the wickets of Green who faced 150 came along. Chandrika soon brought up his deliveries and hit two fours and one six in a fifty which contained three fours and one six top score of 38, Kenzo Baksh (11), Anthony off 133 balls, while Barrington half century Adams (14) and Kemo Paul (00) as they were came off 100 balls and included three fours. bowled out for 100 in 45.5 overs. Mark Tyrell Berbice finally got he break through was left undefeated on zero. Raj Nanan 3-14 when Zamal Khan had Barrington leg before and Seon Daniels 2-31 supported Latcha. for 64 at 180 after facing 179 deliveries.

The President’s XI with a lead of 57 were Two runs later Gudakesh Motie Kanhai 07 without loss off 3.5 overs when rain sent sent back Chandrika in similar fashion, ten the players off the field at 15:52 hrs. short of what would have been a well Poor work by the groundsmen who took a deserved century. His innings came off 119 lengthy time to get the covers on the pitch balls. Hooper then trapped Vishal Singh in forced the umpires to call off play for the day. front for 17 as Demerara went to tea at 207-4 Chanderpaul is on 01 and Kevon Boodie yet with Chanderpaul Hemraj on 07 and Joseph to get off the mark, Extras has so far on 02. After the interval Hemraj was caught contributed 06. off Kanhai without addition, but Zaheer Mohamed joined Perry and added 53 for the Our sports email has been 5th wicket before Mohamed was bowled by compromised, Hooper for 36(4x4,1x6), while pacer Keon so we have had to get a new one.

Joseph removed Shaquille Williams for a duck at 274 as Berbice fought back.

Please send all sports related Perry who is unbeaten on 31(2x4) and correspondence to: Paul Wintz 02 not out then saw their team to kaieteursportsdepartment stumps at 286-7 after facing 95 overs in the day’s play; Demerara have a lead of 118 runs. @yahoo.com.

Hooper has so far taken 3-57, Kanhai 3-67, Thanks.

Khan 1-32 and Joseph 1-49.

Essequibo started the day on 4-1 at Wales Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210