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
DRINKING AND DRIVING! It is time for the government to acknowledge that the country’s highways have become the death zones in Guyana. Every effort must be made to reduce the senseless carnage on the roadways. The fact that only a handful of the thousands of drunk drivers are apprehended is a testimony to the failure of the police and the authorities. The deaths of 10-month-old Aiden Anderson on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway and 65 year old Shanty Dallana on the Corentyne Highway over the weekend are two deaths too many. Added to these is the death of 23-year-old Devon Deene of Fyrish Village on Monday. It was reported that all the drivers were speeding. Based on the current available police statistics on road fatalities, it is likely that the year 2015 will surpass 2014. Almost 100 persons have died in traffic accidents so far and alcohol and speeding have contributed to the majority of the fatalities. People tend to think that pedestrians and bicyclists are the most vulnerable to the dangers of the road but the truth is drunk drivers and their passengers are more at risk of losing their lives in traffic accidents. Most drunk drivers are impaired and tend to drive recklessly. They are not afraid of the police. The government and the police must take drastic action to make the roads safer and reduce the high number of fatalities, especially among children and senior citizens. Not only must the police and the government be blamed for the accidents and deaths on the roads, but also drivers, particularly those operating minibuses and passenger cars. Motor cyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians and alcohol must also be blamed. Drivers must not drink and drive; they must be alert and should be more sensitive to the presence of other road users. They must exercise caution at all times so as to make the roads safer. While some feel a stricter regime of licensing is needed to reduce fatalities on the roads, others have demanded more traffic enforcement by the police and more severe penalties for drivers who violated the traffic laws. They also believe that there should be an apprentice period for new drivers in order for them to gain sufficient experience before allowed to drivealone, especially at nights and in rainy conditions. Passing a driver’s test and obtaining a license are not enough for drivers or motorcyclists to drive or ride by themselves as is currently the case. Statistics have shown that most traffic accidents and deaths are caused by drunk drivers, speeding and by drivers who overtake other vehicles in high-risk areas such as intersections, entrances to shopping malls and in areas where there are solid double yellow lines. Also, some motorcyclists do not wear their helmets and protective equipment properly. Drivers and motor cyclists must always assume that other drivers have not seen them or that they are in their blind spot. Unfortunately, some drivers are easily distracted and often forget that animals also use the roads. They must be aware that animals are considered kings in their own kingdoms and this applies to the roads that they use at will. It is better to save a life than to take one, therefore it would be wise for drivers to respect the speed limits to ensure that their ability to control their vehicles are not compromised. Drivers should also adjust their driving to adapt to hazardous road conditions such as rains. Motor cycles should avoid the show-off spectacle and be considerate of others. Safety requires all users of the roads to remember the five “Cs” and to know what defensive driving is. The APNU+AFC government must urgently implement policies to make the roads safer and to prevent the loss of life—a sign of good governance. Life is precious and one traffic death is one too many. The government should take heed.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Letters... Where your views make the news
CJIA is providing a service as good as any other developing country’s international airport DEAR EDITOR, In a letter which appeared in the media on Sept. 18, Leon Suseran expressed the view that the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri is an embarrassment to Guyanese national pride. It is apparent from his remarks and observations that he lacks international travel experience as he claimed, “that nationals of the USA and Canada and other world class airports do not have to join any line upon arrival at immigration”. This statement is far from reality as my experience and that of many Guyanese arriving at the JFK International Airport in New York, one of the three largest in the USA, clearly illustrate. Most flights from Guyana arriving at JFK normally disgorge their passengers at the farthest end of one of the wings of the International Terminal Building and from there they have to walk indoor over 2000 feet with their hand luggage to the Immigration Hall. On arrival at the Hall, Guyanese passengers join other international passengers who are directed to visitors and residents immigration booths both usually with long winding lines of passengers leading to them.
After clearing Immigration, passengers head for their respective carousel to pick up their luggage. After collecting their luggage some 30-60 minutes later they head for the shortest Customs counter line for examination of their belongings after which they are free to exit the airport and head for their destinations. The Immigration and Custom experiences at Heathrow airport, London, Pearson international, Toronto and elsewhere are not much different than that of the USA. The departure experience from the USA and many other countries are much more exacting than in Guyana. Here again Suseran is ‘off the rail’. The USA has no departure check by Immigration and boarding an aircraft is security oriented as checking is done b y t h e Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Security Administration (TSA) and this exercise could be an unforgettable and trying experience. Guyana is a small and p o o r c o u n t r y. I t s international airport - CJIA is as good or even better than many in its class. Its terminal building is clean, functional and as comfortable as could be expected. Its employees are generally polite, competent and efficient as
those found in any developing country. The departure terminal sidewalk at CJIA is comparatively not cramped and small as claimed. In fact it is slightly bigger than that of International Terminal: 4 at JFK. The non-passengers and vehicles which crowd the sidewalk entry area at CJIA should not be there nor should families be allowed to accompany passengers in restricted areas as is the case with most airports of the world. People elsewhere do not use their airports for excursions and picnics outings and that is why security guards are there at CJIA to check passengers’ credentials from wanderers before they enter the Terminal Building for check in. During my many trips to Guyana I have never seen immigration lines extending to the tarmac. Therefore Suseran’s claim is no more than an imaginary ‘stretch’. The five Immigration officers who are usually on duty are more than adequate to check in a timely manner and with due diligence the status of Shiv Chanderpaul and all those passengers arriving on a Boeing 767. Shiv Chanderpaul, who is Guyanese born and was travelling on a foreign
passport may have alerted the Immigration authorities who have regulatory responsibilities to check his credentials in greater detail and detained him for further questioning if he had looked suspicious and satisfactory answers were not given to them at the Port of entry. After all it is well known that foreigners as well as Guyanese of all shades and status entering the country usually engage in hanky panky activities of one sort or another. Evidently there is room to make CJIA a modern, e ff i c i e n t a n d t o u r i s m attractive airport but it will not come cheap and contrary to Suseran’s claims, Guyana does not have the resources for such extensive improvements. CJIA is providing a service as good as any other d e v e l o p i n g c o u n t r y ’s international airport and with incremental improvements such as extending the runway to accommodate larger aircrafts and providing a few buses to ferry passengers from plane to terminal building and vice versa during inclement weather would be worthwhile improvements for a start. Suseran may probably have a few more to add. Charles Sohan
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 5
Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news
IS IT THE ROTTEN APPLE OR THE BARREL? DEAR EDITOR, The vexed question may be asked- is it the bad apple or the barrel that is damaging the image of the Law Enforcement. Swope believes, “The Rotten Apple theory that some administrators proposed as the cause of their demise is usually nothing more than self-serving superficial facade, intended to draw attention away frown their own failure. He posited that, “It is the unethical breeding environment of the barrel that generates the major difficulties. It is the barrel, the culture of police organizations that can cause the root shattering scandals that periodically face some police organizations.”He further stated that,” an officer’s behaviour is influenced more directly by the action or lack of action in response to ethical shortcomings of his superiors than by the stated directives or written ethical code of an organization. Perry (2001) argued, “The Rotten Apple theory won’t work any longer. Corrupt police officers are not natural-born criminals..... The task of corruption control is to examine the barrel, not just the apples, the organization, not just the individuals in it, because corrupt police are made, not born.” I may add that sometimes we need to replace some of the staves, the hopples, and other tainted materials that make up the barrel. Indications are that whenever some apples go out on lucrative details, on their return they have to leave something with the barrel or they cannot go on similar operations again, thus causing both the apples and barrel to be contaminated.
A good starting point to promote ethical behaviour and integrity is to eliminate the code of silence. That thin blue wall of silence. The code of silence encourages people not to speak up when they see another officer doing wrong. Fulton (2000) stresses: “Police Commanders must exemplify the honesty and integrity they seek in their subordinates.” In addition: “Ethical mentoring and role modeling should be consistent, frequent and visible.” All is not lost. McCarthy (2000) presents seven steps that can help prevent unethical behaviour, “(1) Recruit with care. (2)Establish proper policies and put them in writing. (3)Adapt a good employee evaluation process. (4)Make sure your Sergeants share management’s values and philosophies. (5)Develop operational controls. (6)Perform regular anti-corruption inspections and audits. (7) Implement ethics and integrity training into every training activity.” Ethical behaviour is what is “moral and “right”. Law enforcement must at all times develop high ethical standards on and off duty. Benette and Hess explain that the key elements of corrupt behaviour are that the conduct (1) is prohibited by law or rule, (2) involves misuse of position and (3) involves a reward or personal gain for the officer.” Developing honest and ethical individuals and team players is important because most future law enforcement leaders will emerge from the lower levels of the organization. Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner Of Police (Retired)
Freddie’s objection to the use of Red House smacks of political petty-mindedness
DEAR EDITOR, Nothing could be more insulting to the memory of Dr. Cheddi Jagan than Freddie Kissoon’s objection to the use of a government owned edifice (at a nominal rent) to host the Dr. Jagan Research Center (KN Sep 22). Although rented out to Dr. Jagan’s party, the PPP, the center is opened to the public; it is not partisan but accessible to the entire nation. The PPP is merely the manager and caretaker of the center dedicated to the memory of Jagan. Ironically, Dr. Jagan’s personal home in Bel Air has been granted to the state for free (no rent charged) and Freddie sees no problem with it. But he finds objection for cheap rent to the host (PPP) of a Jagan Center. Freddie’s problem is not the rent but Jagan. Freddie hates the
freedom fighter with a passion, probably because Freddie himself can never rise to the iconic status of a Jagan. It is quite apparent that Freddie and his acolytes (those who put him up to this mission of opposing the rent for the building) are not willing to let the center be. Freddie finds it prudent to oppose the use (for cheap) of a government owned building dedicated to research that is centered on or around Jagan, including research on other subjects applying Jaganite views. Freddie has called on the APNU-AFC government to cancel the agreement signed by the PPP government for use of the building. Freddie has a personal dislike for Jagan, as he does for me and those who take an objective position on issues. If one does not hate Jagan or the
PPP, then Freddie hates that person. So Freddie’s opposition to anything pertaining to Dr. Jagan is not surprising. It is doubtful that the APNU-AFC government will pay heed to Freddie’s latest idiocy. Freddie is trying to raise an unseemly controversy over a non-issue of the approval of a rental fee for the use of the building. If it is an unjust act, then let the government cancel it as Freddie seems to feel the government would do and that he is advocating. Although disagreeing with his views and positions on issues, many (including this writer) revere the memory of Jagan. He is admired for his courage, loyalty and dedication to a cause – something Freddie never committed to. Freddie is Continued on page 29
Page 6
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Fate of GAIBANK rests with new study With the financial strain prevalent among rice farmers in Guyana, plans are on for the re-establishment of the Guyana Agriculture and Industrial Development Bank (GAIBANK). This facility will provide credit facilities for those involved in Agriculture on a developmental basis. On Monday, Finance Minister Winston Jordan said that GAIBANK’s return was indeed on the cards, though its composition would be dependent on a study that would take into account the circumstances of GAIBANK’s collapse and other developmental banks within the Caribbean. GAIBANK was first established in 1973 by the Government as a state-owned development bank catering for the Agricultural and
- Finance Minister
Finance Minister Winston Jordan Industrial sectors. It helps with grants and loans from the International community. The bank was intended to fulfill the financial needs of farmers that were not being met by the terms provided by the Commercial banks. GAIBANK, Guyana’s only development bank at the time, was rendered defunct by the then Dr. Cheddi Jagan administration in 1995. In a
bid to redress financial difficulties and recover its loan portfolio which was lagging behind, GAIBANK was merged with the Guyana National Co-Operative Bank (GNCB). According to Jordan, GAIBANK does not have to take the infrastructural form of a bank, but could be a window/division operating from a commercial bank. That bank could be paid via a commission. But, he advised, a study of the GAIBANK proposal will be necessary in order to reach a determination. He also observed that with its establishment, increased diversification of the industry could be achieved. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jarvis, expressed the necessity of the Bank’s reestablishment, since Development banks give the
borrower a moratorium (delayed repayment) for the life of the loan. He also noted that stakeholders have been calling for the establishment of a development bank since the space to repay a commercial bank was limited and farmers were having difficulties meeting those obligations. Jarvis noted that one of the issues holding farmers back is the fact that they don’t have the capital to expand. He provided as an example, a coconut farmer who has to pay back a commercial bank loan. In such a case the farmer will be working just to pay off the remnants of his loan. But if he has a loan from a developmental bank, the Permanent Secretary said, he can diversify into other streams such as coconut oil etc.
Non-traditional crops are expected to receive a boost with better sources of capital With the dismal performance of the sugar and the current production challenges afflicting rice farmers, there have been repeated calls for increased diversification of the agriculture sector. Guyana has one of the highest import bills in the Caribbean for non-traditional agriculture products. Cognizant of this fact, Jordan had spoken of several policy changes the Government would employ, such as the increase in exports of nonsugar and non-agricultural products by at least 25 percent over a five-year
period. To meet such an increase, it follows that production must also be hiked. During the budget allocations Government had indicated its intention to place greater emphasis on agro-processed food such as shrimp, fruits and vegetables to increase production by at least 50 percent. Minister Jordan had also pointed to some of the crops that will become the face of the diversification initiative in hinterland areas- corn, soybean, cassava and legumes, in addition to fish and poultry rearing.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Pope Francis brings message about power and the poor to U.S.
President Obama and Pope Francis share a laugh as President Obama and first lady Michelle welcomed the Pontiff upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, yesterday. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque Reuters - Pope Francis arrived on his first visit ever to the United States yesterday, bringing to Washington a message that its power and wealth should be used to serve humanity. Bestowing on Francis an honour that few foreign dignitaries receive, both President Barack Obama a n d Vi c e P r e s i d e n t J o e Biden personally greeted the 78-year-old Argentine on the tarmac after the Alitalia papal plane landed at Joint Base Andrews near the capital. Schoolchildren cheered the pontiff in his first moments on U.S. soil, chanting “Hello, hey, hey, welcome to the USA.” Obama, his wife Michelle Obama and their daughters shook the pope’s hand on the red carpet. The six-day visit to America gives Francis an opportunity to deliver his message of compassion and simplicity to the world’s richest and most powerful country. Francis ended a four-day Cuba trip and headed to the United States with a message of reconciliation for the former Cold War foes while avoiding controversy on the U.S. trade embargo or human rights on the Communist-run island. The first Latin American pope has electrified liberalleaning U.S. Catholics, Democrats and many nonCatholics with a shift in emphasis towards concern for the poor and immigrants and his appeals for action against climate change. But his criticism of unbridled capitalism has unsettled U.S. conservatives. In keeping with his
unpretentious style, the pontiff left the air base headed for Washington in a small Fiat car, in contrast to the long motorcades of large SUVs used by U.S. presidents. Francis will give the first speech by any pope to the U.S. Congress tomorrow, an address to the U.N. General Assembly in New York on Friday and an open-air Mass in Philadelphia where 1.5 million people are expected to attend. The leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Roman Catholics, whom conservatives have accused of being too liberal, said his pleas for social justice were based on Church teachings. “I am sure that I have not said anything more than what is in the social doctrine of the Church,” he told reporters on the plane carrying him from Cuba. “My doctrine on all this ...on economic imperialism, is that of the social doctrine of the Church,” said Francis. “If you want me to read the Creed, I can,” he told a reporter who asked about the criticisms, referring to the prayer of Catholic beliefs said in the Mass. It is unclear what kind of tone he will strike while in the United States, a country he has never visited despite his extensive travel and his Church leadership positions before becoming pope in 2013. On the plane from Cuba, Francis told reporters he hopes the United States will lift its long trade embargo on the Communist-run island as a result of negotiations between the two countries but does not plan to raise it in his
address to Congress this week. “My desire is that they end up with a good result, that they reach an accord that satisfies both sides, an accord, certainly,” said Francis, who helped broker a thaw between the two countries after more than five decades of conflict. His decision to go from Cuba to the United States is weighed with symbolism as the pope pushes the Church to pay greater heed to people who live on the periphery. Obama and the pope meet more formally on Wednesday at the White House where the atmosphere is likely to be cordial. “I think that you can say that both President Obama and Pope Francis, have, over the course of their careers, both demonstrated a commitment to values related to social and economic justice,” White House spokesman Josh Earnest told reporters. After the meeting, Francis will then parade past Washington’s major monuments before a crowd expected to reach tens of thousands. A poll on Monday showed that 51 percent of Americans viewed Francis favourably, with just 9 percent of respondents to a MSNBC/ Telemundo/Marist poll reporting an unfavourable view. U.S. Republicans, who control Congress, often struggle to agree with Francis’ economic messages. But they applaud him for defending Church teachings that oppose abortion and samesex marriage.
Page 7
Page 8
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
EU backs refugee-sharing plan, exposing east-west rift Reuters - The European Union approved a plan yesterday to share out 120,000 refugees across its 28 states, overriding vehement opposition from four excommunist eastern nations. The European Commission, the EU executive, had proposed the scheme with the backing of Germany and other big powers in order to tackle the continent’s worst refugee crisis since World War Two. But the rift it has caused between older and newer members was glaringly evident as the interior ministers of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary voted against the plan at a meeting in
Brussels, with Finland abstaining. “We would have preferred a consensus but we could not reach that, and it is not for want of trying,” Luxembourg Interior Minister Jean Asselborn, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the EU, told a news conference. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said pushing through the quota system had “nonsensically” caused a deep rift over a highly sensitive issue and that, “as long as I am prime minister”, Slovakia would not implement a quota. And Czech Interior Minister Milan Chovanec tweeted: “We will soon realise
that the emperor has no clothes. Common sense lost today.” This year’s influx of nearly half a million people fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Asia and Africa has already sparked unseemly disputes over border controls as well as bitter recriminations over how to share out responsibility. Refugees and migrants arriving in Greece and Italy have been streaming north to reach more affluent nations such as Germany, prompting countries in central and eastern Europe alternately to try to block the flow or shunt it on to their neighbours. European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans said no country had challenged the decision before the vote, and that the Commission would make sure it was implemented. “We know some member states were not in favour of the proposal, but those member states said: ‘Let’s have a vote, we will respect the outcome of the vote’. And so all the member states respect the outcome,” he said. “The Commission is under an obligation to enforce what was agreed.” French President Francois
Syrian migrants hold a sit-in protest as they wait to be allowed to continue their journey to Greece or Bulgaria, at the Sarayici oil wrestling arena in Edirne, Turkey, yesterday. REUTERS/YAGIZ KARAHAN Hollande said there would be consequences for countries that refused to implement the deal. Governments can be fined by EU courts for failing to implement EU law, and ministers in some wealthier, western states have also warned that they could reduce future subsidies to
poorer neighbours that do not show “solidarity” in the refugee crisis. “The sanctions exist,” Hollande told the French TV station BFMTV from London. “So these countries will be putting themselves in a situation where what they are receiving from Europe could be suspended. You cannot ask
Europe for support and refuse when Europe asks for solidarity.” At an emergency summit on Wednesday, EU leaders want to focus on boosting aid for Syrian refugees in Turkey and the rest of the Middle East who have not set off for Europe, and tightening control of the bloc’s external frontiers.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 9
Guyana needs regular changes in government Now that the PPPC’s hold on power has ended, now that it is possible for a party or coalition of parties other than the PPP to win democratic elections, the question needs to be asked whether Guyana needs national unity. In her address after being sworn in as Leader of the Opposition of Trinidad and Tobago, Mrs. Kamla Bissessar made a compelling argument as to why there was no need for the country’s two parties to put aside their differences. She asserted that indeed the very political and constitutional system of her country’s Republic made provision for a government and for an opposition. Then she laid out a case for the need for
there to be both. She said that democracy is about taking a side. Her address can be read in the Trinidad Express newspaper website. I think she is right. Parties do not always share the same opinion. Differences are important. They allow for various options to be put on the table. They allow for an alternative to government. These things are not destructive. What is destructive is the unwillingness of politicians to admit that they may not be right all the time or that others have a differing view to what they have. It is not the differences that are the problem; it is the nonacceptance of those differences. Voting in Trinidad and Tobago takes place under a
different electoral system. They have a first-past-the post system unlike us in which PR is still the dominant mode. But voting patterns in both Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana are the same. There is strong ethnic voting in both countries and this is why in both countries we so often hear about the need to set aside differences and come together. You do not hear that in countries where voting patterns are not as polarized. In those cases, the refrain is more that all the people have chosen and it is time for all to work for the good of the country. This does not mean that they should bury their political differences. There is, of course, a major difference between elections in Trinidad and
Dem boys seh...
Jagdeo prove he is de devil When neighbours beg you fuh move out is one thing, but when de whole street demand that you get de (bad word) out of de area, is another thing. If you is a scamp and a thief, and people do that you can understand. But when you ain’t do nutten and deh pun de side of honesty, decency, integrity—in fact you fighting de scamps, and people still want you move out, you know that de society ain’t got no good. That happen to de Waterfalls boss man. Fuh 23 years de govt neglect de street that he live in. Under Jagdeo was deliberate. Was a vindictive, deliberate and most wicked act. Up to now de road nah fix. Is because of de road de people want he move out. Five of dem tell him when de road fix you can come back. De whole country remembers how de trench outside wheh Freddie live was skipped by de contractors. Uncle Adam couldn’t get he pension fuh more than 23 years. Up to now he nah get it. Just how de road nah fix is just suh Adam still waiting pun he pension. That is de nature of de beast de whole nation had to put up with. When dem thief de Santa complex, he, Jagdeo, go to pave de street into de complex just so he can drive in. Dem boys seh if you is a friend or you good to him or to he party or he like you, you get everything pave, even de walkway to you s**thouse. Look wha he do fuh C fuh Hicken. Dem pave up to he house right in line wid he fence. All this happen because he coulda jump in a
trench in Buxton and bring up a gun after two li’l duck, not duckling. Jagdeo allow de city to stink because he didn’t like Hammy, a poor old man who can’t stand up pun one foot and who is a senior citizen. Look wha he do to GPL. He lef de whole GPL to fall apart. All because of another 3-card trick he did plan fuh pull pun de nation wid de Amaila Falls. That project
woulda end up just like de Berbice Bridge project in which dem put in five per cent of de cost and end up owning de bridge. If de project was allowed to go through it would have been you great-grandchildren paying dem great grand children all de profits fuh de same projects. Talk half and hope Jagdeo get ketch like de smart fly.
Tobago and Guyana or at least, there used to be a major difference. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago ruled his country for twenty-five years. But when his party did lose power, there was no extended reign by any party. Governments have come and governments have gone in Trinidad. Kamla Bissessar only had one term. There has been stability in Trinidad and Tobago because after Williams’s rule there has always been a possibility of a change of government, and there have been such changes. After democracy was restored in Guyana after twenty-six years of rigged elections, the PPP ruled for another twenty-three. In that period it was almost impossible for the supporters of the opposition to feel that they had a chance. This is why Guyana’s politics is so problematic and why there has been so much political instability. For a long time, it mattered not what the PPP did, the party was able to ride to reelection on the back of predominantly ethnic vote. That has changed now. The PPP was defeated by a
combination of a change of demographics and a preelection coalition. Guyana needs a dose of regular electoral change for political stability. It does not need national unity. That is a vague concept. Guyana does need the government and the opposition to be working together. It needs a strong opposition to offer a different perspective to the government. But more importantly, it needs guarantees that the party which in the past rigged its way to electoral successes in 1968, 1973, 1978, 1980 and 1985 will not go down that road again. Democracy must be respected if there is to be political stability. There must be possibility
of change, a strong possibility, not a remote possibility. If there are regular changes in government, insecurity will be reduced and there will be greater political stability. If this is allowed; if ethnic polarization no longer guarantees an electoral victory, then Guyanese can stop wasting its time asking the two main parties to set aside their differences. These differences can make a difference between democracy and totalitarianism, as the former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago said.
Page 10
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
The reason I went to see Justice Roxanne George and the DPP I was contacted by several persons, including two lawyers, two prominent politicians, and five other persons about a High Court case (that concluded two weeks ago) before Justice Roxanne George. The accused penetrated a close relative with his finger and was sentenced to 45 years. He was a car wash attendant who conducted his own defence. The State had two prosecutors – Shawnette Austin and Diane Kaulesar. I have no medical evidence but from what I know I think this convicted person is a bit
mentally challenged. The other five persons that made contact with me were two of his family members and three friends from his car-wash workplace. A close relative told me the accused had no money for a lawyer. Since my involvement, attorney, Madan Kissoon, has filed an appeal so I will not discuss the case further. I cannot discuss t h e c a s e i n this column because the Sexual Offences Act precluded the press from any kind of reporting, a position I don’t agree with but more in future columns. My editor, Adam Harris
offered some advice on a certain aspect of this column. We spoke because Ms. Liz Rahaman, the Public Relations Director of the Office of the DPP contacted Adam to make a complaint for which I offer no apology to Ms. Rahaman and would repeat my action because I think m y a c t i o n w a s p r o p e r. When I visited the DPP chambers, I asked Leonard Craig to accompany me because I know my country. I know the nature of a group of people named Guyanese. I am glad there was a witness, a prominent Guyanese at that. Ms. Rahaman came out of her office and discussed with me the route journalists have to take to speak to the DPP. You must fill up a form, state your business and she will forward the request to the DPP. Early in the day, Ms. Rahaman called my cell to ascertain the nature of my request. I declined to divulge details to her asserting that because of the sensitive
nature I will only dialogue with the DPP. In the presence of Craig, Ms. Rahaman insisted that I must fill the form because this is the DPP’s position when journalists want to see her. I then told Ms. Rahaman I was changing my hat and will make the request as an academic. I was trained at three universities, including reaching the doctoral programme. I have twentysix years teaching at a university with publications. I believe I have earned the status of an academic and my change of status was proper because it then changed the route you have to use to see the DPP. Ms. Rahaman complained to my editor about my two hats. I stand by my changing of hats. I went to see the DPP, not to discuss the case, but a legal term called “State Brief.” The DPP refused to see me. I went to speak to Justice George about “State Brief.” She declined to speak to me. I simply wanted to know why in this particular trial there
wasn’t State Brief. The State only provides a lawyer to an accused if he/ she doesn’t have one in murder and treason. Those are capital offences. But a judge in a serious criminal case in which the defendant doesn’t have legal representation can petition the DPP to provide legal assistance. This is called “State Brief.” I felt that the accused was facing life imprisonment and should have had legal representation. Back to the advice of my editor, Adam Harris. Adam suggested that I should not pen my disagreement with the 45 years sentence. He said in other countries rape carries a more draconian punishment. I believe a citizen has a right to offer his/her opinion once it avoids libel or sedition. Christopher Ram offered a pungent public disagreement with the Chief Justice’s ruling on the two term presidential limit. The Guyana Human Rights Association vehemently criticized
Frederick Kissoon Justice I n s a n a l l y ’s d e c i s i o n a g a i n s t an Amerindian village in favour of a gold miner. Roger Luncheon rejected Magistrate Beharry’s verdict that freed t h r e e t r e a s o n accused. The same judge, Justice Roxanne George sentenced Stanford Dick to fifteen years’ imprisonment after he went to rape a child. The mother intervened and she was brutally raped and assaulted. Justice Brassington Reynolds jailed Dennis Evans for ten years for rape of a child. Justice Dawn Gregory gave Ray Thomas 18 years for raping an eight-year-old. Justice Reynolds gave Harold Naurayan 19 years for rape of a child. I could cite hundreds of cases with sentence disparity. This explains why I found the 45 years jail of interest. I will look at the Sexual Offences Act in greater details.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 11
UGSS fostering strategic partnership with UWI Student Guilds The benefits of partnership were accentuated by outgoing President of the University of Guyana Students’ Society (UGSS), Joshua Griffith, during a recently concluded visit to the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s University of the West Indies (UWI) St Augustine Campus. The visit is one that has paved the way for future partnerships between the UGSS and the UWI Student Guilds. Griffith’s recent visit to Trinidad was one that resulted from an invitation from the Executives of the Guild of Students at the University to attend the InterCampus Guild Council (ICGC) meeting. There he was able to meet with student representatives from the Guilds of the four UWI campuses: Mona in Jamaica, Cave Hill in Barbados, and St Augustine and the Open Campuses in Trinidad and Tobago. His trip ended on Saturday last. The UG student body invitation to the inter-campus guild meetings came out of discussions between Griffith and the President of the UWI St Augustine Campus Guild of Students, Makesi Peters, at the 19th Commonwealth Council of Education Ministers (CCEM) Conference held in the Bahamas in June of this year. The outgoing UGSS President arrived in Trinidad and Tobago last week Thursday; on that very day he presented to the body the benefits of partnership among the student representative bodies, which included advocating for the interests of tertiary students in the Caribbean, building a
From Left: President of UWI Open Campus - Ms. Aneka Lee; President of the St. Augustine Guild of Students’ - Mr. Makesi Peters; President University of Guyana Students’ Society - Mr. Joshua Griffith; Pro-Vice-Chancellor UWI St. Augustine - Professor Clement Sankat. regional identity among university students, exchange of experiences and governance strengthening in student representative democracy. Griffith noted the unanimous support from the regional student bodies to his proposal, which has culminated into the drafting of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among these student bodies. The MoU will pave the way for future partnerships between the UGSS and the UWI Student Guilds, which account for tens of thousands of Caribbean tertiary education students. The MoU, according to Griffith, will be signed in Guyana in the coming weeks pending the document’s completion, a request that was made by the UWI St Augustine Guild President. Griffith envisions that the
move by the UWI and UG bodies could evolve into student exchanges between the UWI and the UG student bodies, thus, this reality will be considered in the longterm goals of the agreement. “This is a legacy in the making, and it can only work towards strengthening and improving student governance and the quality of education among the relevant stakeholders,” Griffith said. Griffith also spoke of the
possibility of Guyana, once again, becoming a paying member to UWI and emphasised the benefits of students not only in accessing the array of programmes offered at the UWI campuses, but also in the exchange of culture for strengthening regional identity. “If we are going to revitalise the strength of regional identity, of CARICOM, of the Caribbean, then definitely we need more
exchanges among the islands,” said Griffith. He went on to endorse the intention of the Guyana Government to look into the country contributing to the UWI. “I do believe it stands to benefit and improve the quality of service and the development of our human resource in Guyana, significantly.” Griffith noted, too, that the nationalist arguments in defence of UG competing
with the UWI even as he recalled his conversation with UWI St Augustine Campus Principal, Clement Sankat, where the idea of UWI campus in Guyana, which focused on Post-Graduate education to complement the degrees already being offered at UG. Griffith is hopeful that exchanges at the student level could see the future involvement of the Administrations of the UWI and the UG, but he said the involvement of the Administration is not in the initial phase of the studentdriven agreement, but could form part of the vision moving forward. Griffith, while attending the 19th CCEM Conference in June, was elected Chairman of the Interim Commonwealth Students’ Association (CSA). He assumes his full position in a matter of days and will soon step down from the position of UGSS President, as that body will be holding its elections next month. Griffith has committed to working along with the new UGSS representatives when the October election concludes, so as to ensure that there is a smooth and efficient transition of initiatives such with the regional student bodies.
Page 12
Kaieteur News
Brazilians reportedly slain while heading to Bartica The Brazilians whose bodies were found in a swamp at Cuyuni may have been slain while heading to Bartica. This is the word that police have received about Jose Carlos Barbosa Araujo and Adonias Ferreira, whose remains were discovered last Sunday. Araujo, 45, also known as “Irmao Francisco,” is a mechanic, while Ferreira, 37, is a gold miner. According to reports, the men left their worksite in the Oku mining area, Cuyuni, on Tuesday, September 15, on an
ATV. They were said to have been heading to Bartica to purchase spares for an excavator. Their bodies were found in a swamp around 14.30 hrs on Sunday and taken to the Bartica Hospital mortuary. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said that police are awaiting post mortem examinations to ascertain if they are dealing with a case of foul play. The discovery has brought back memories within the Brazilian mining fraternity of the discovery, last
year, of the badly decomposed bodies of a Brazilian couple along the Puruni trail early 2014. A number of other Brazilians have been slain for the year in the crime-prone interior. Last April, Antonia De Sena, a 58-year-old Brazilian, was shot dead by bandits at Arau Landing, Wenamu River. Police were told that De Sena was killed after resisting the bandits who had demanded gold and cash. On June 2, Marco Nunes Continued on page 27
Wednesday September 23, 2015
More than one year later…
PI into death of BV taxi driver continues The murder Preliminary Inquiry (PI), into the death of taxi driver, Raphael Campbell, whose body was found with a gunshot wound to the head last year January, at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, continued yesterday in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Courts. Murder accused, Sean Collins, of Ketley and Drysdale Streets, Charlestown; Michael Bishop, of Lot 21 Hill Street, Albouystown and Shawn Edinboro, a/k Shawn Perriera , 21, of Thomas Street, Kitty, are on trial before Magistrate Zamilla Ally. They are accused of murdering Campbell of Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, between January 2 and 3, 2014, at Liliendaal. When the matter came up yesterday, Police Prosecutor, Lance Corporal, David Goodridge called his sixth witness, Detective Lance Corporal, Redrick Melville to testify. Attorney, Latchmie Rahamat is representing Edinboro. She grilled the police witness with questions after he had given his evidence. Collins was unrepresented by an attorney and declined to ask the witness questions. Thereafter, the matter was further adjourned until September 28, when one of the witnesses is expected to be cross examined by Jad Vasconcellos, Attorney for Bishop. The lifeless body of
MURDER ACCUSED: Michael Bishop
MURDER ACCUSED: Sean Collins
MURDER ACCUSED: Shawn Edinboro
MURDERED: Raphael Campbell
Campbell was found with a gunshot wound behind the left ear, at Liliendaal, January 3, 2014. Campbell, who was at the time a taxi driver at Pegasus Hotel, reportedly picked up some male passengers on the night of January 2, 2014, on Camp Street. He supposedly took the passengers to East Coast Demerara, where he was slain after an argument ensued between him and the passengers over the fare. His
body was found the following day and positively identified by his sister. According to police, on January 3, Edinboro, Bishop, Collins and others were stopped at a roadblock on the Soesdyke/Linden highway while they were in a black Toyota Premio that was stolen from the dead taxi driver. They were taken into custody but reportedly denied killing Campbell.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 13
Prisoners set fire to Camp Street prison Pandemonium broke out in the Capital Section A of the Camp street prison about 19:00hrs yesterday as a result of the desperate attempts by prisoners to air their grievances to the media. As part of their ploy to get attention, they began to burn newspapers in the Capital Section Block ‘A’ of the prison, This resulted in officials from the Guyana Fire Service, armed prison officers and the Guyana Power and Light rushing to the scene. While the fire, according to fire officers at the scene, could have been worse, they were able to extinguish it before it got out of control. The Capital Section of the prison houses three blocks each of which has in excess of seventy prisoners, most were shouting their stories. The prisoners’ complaints included, unfair and inhumane treatment by prison officials and some police ranks; some of whom they say are favoring some prisoners over others. Allegations include prison officers being paid to set prisoners up and cause fights among one another. “Dem does take out people from cells and let other prisoners beat them up in here.” Some shouted their need for a more effective and efficient DPP as they labeled her as unfair in the execution of her job. They also sought to clear the air about the alleged gang fight which led to the wounding of Romel Ross last week Friday during a similar riotous scenario. As it relates to that issue, the prisoners at the top of their voices debunked the story of there being a gang
The scene outside the Camp Street Prison last night
war in the prison. “We ain’t got no gang war in here; some people got problems with one another but is not no gang thing. Plus we ain’t do Romel nuttin.” They alleged that contrary to reports, “Romel was tekking advantage of a boy, and the boy deal with he case. That wasn’t no gang nothing. The boy get tired of he tekking away he things and deal with he case,” one prisoner shouted with full endorsement from other prisoners. Another issue raised by the prisoners was that they are not being fed on time. “Since six we ain’t eat nothing.” In their sharp boisterous swipes at the Director of Public Prosecution they proclaimed their innocence and accused the authorities of bias against them because of their financial and social standing. “Nuff of we innocent in here, DPP giving big ones attention and she ain’t got no
respect for people like we. Some of we in here for as much as six years and no trial. That ain’t fair cause we got
families. She got them running up and down behind she and she can’t make up she mind what she doing with we.”
They are calling for intervention on their behalf. They want early trials and proper investigations to be
done by police as opposed to “forcing people to sign statements admitting to things including murder that people ain’t do.” They also decried the use of tear gas. Another issue that sparked the protest involved one prisoner who identified himself as Jermaine Otto. He said that he is in the jail for a murder that he did not commit and that a constable (name given) “wanted to take me to a strong cell for another prisoner to chop me up. He say how the OC want to see me but I get to understand that it was a lie and he wanted to feed me to the prisoner. “ Last Friday Police and prison authorities were called out to quell a brawl between rival gangs in which inmates set mattresses alight. The brawl left a 19-year-old Continued on page 26
Page 14
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Public Administration Reform...
Admin. Regions to be granted some level of financial independence Over the coming months, the Ministry of Finance is expected to engage the Ministry of Communities, Regional Chairpersons and Regional Executive Officers on the most effective ways to give life to the recently passed Fiscal Transfers Act. This legislation provides the mechanism for the formulation and implementation of objective criteria for allocating resources to local democratic organs. The Act also provides for local authorities to increase their revenues by way of a
limited number of specific measures. According to Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, these are useful steps in expanding democracy by providing some level of financial autonomy to the regions. Jordan stated that based on his findings, very few, if any, of the local democratic organs have availed themselves to these opportunities. With these measures in place, he believes that the resourcefulness and creativity of the inhabitants of the regions will be given
impetus and there will be better and faster development across the country. With regard to further developments in the public administration sector, the Finance Minister said that the coalition government in charting the course for a better life for all Guyanese, is focused on improving the way its systems deliver services to the public. He said that enshrined in this mandate is the need to employ tools which foster the basis for smarter, faster, and more effective systems. In this light, he said that
Government will emphasise results-based approaches in the functioning of its systems. The Finance Minister said that his government will also strive to ensure that policy decisions taken will be supported by timely, accurate and trustworthy empirical evidence, and every Government agency will be mandated to be guided by a strategic plan for their sector. For consistency, he said that his ministry will ensure that the process methodology for the exercise of strategic planning is standardised across Gentral government. To strengthen public expenditure tracking, Jordan said that the government will conduct capacity building training for officers across Central government so as to impress upon them the importance of utilizing this model to improve the delivery of their services to the public. This year, the Granger administration is also expected to introduce strategic planning frameworks for the regions.
He said that the regions have been treated as poor step children in the strategic planning focus too. He said that President David Granger, in his address to Heads of Government agencies and Permanent Secretaries, said that the Public Service was the engine of the executive; hence, it was important to have an efficient public service, one that was responsive, relevant and reliable. “In essence, the government could not function without the public service. It is against this background that plans are being concretized to revamp the public service,” he added. Jordan said that since a lot more will be required from public servants, the present training centre will be upgraded to the Public Service Staff College, to build capacity and improve efficiency in the public service. He added that the conditions of service of public servants, including salaries, will be improved. In this
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan respect, Professor Harold Lutchman has been appointed to prepare an in depth report. Without prejudice to the completion of this report, a tripartite committee, comprising representatives of Ministry of Finance, Public Service Management and the Guyana Public Service Union will examine the allowances granted to public servants. These were last increased nearly 20 years ago.
PPP prepares questions for Finance Minister - GS With just over two weeks remaining before the Eleventh Parliament comes out of recess, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has already begun preparing questions to be answered on the floor of the National Assembly. Most of the questions are to be posed to Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan. This was made known during PPP’s most recent press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street Georgetown, and hosted by PPP’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee. Rohee was asked if there were any Bills in the pipeline which the PPP wishes to take to the House soon after it comes out of recess. He responded in the negative, but said that while no Bills are on the table for now, several questions are being crafted. According to Rohee, most of the questions will be pertaining to financial and economic matters. He said that many of the questions will focus on matters relating to the National Budget passed just
PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee a few days before the Parliament went into recess. Rohee told the media that there may very well be questions pertaining to other issues but conveyed a message to the effect, that most of the PPP’s concerns surround the National Budget. The House, just before going into recess, passed the amended Appropriation Bill which now authorizes the Coalition government to
Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor. Say no to it.
spend some $181.7B – exclusive of the statutory sum of about $39B. Statutory money is not inspected or requires the approval of the House. This sum has first claim on monies in the Consolidated Fund. Statutory money includes the public debt and salaries for Judges and the Ombudsman. Any other money that does not fall into this category has to be appropriated for by the National Assembly. The only amendment made to the Budget was to the format of arriving at the said total in the Appropriation Bill. The PPP Opposition, in the Committee of Supply, grilled the government at length on most line items. Many of these questions were permitted by House Speaker, Dr. Barton Scotland, however, a significant number were put down because they did not relate to the line items. Eventually, both sides reached an agreement that the monies allocated for each Constitutional entity would be passed with no questions asked. These agencies included the Parliament Office, the Office of the Auditor General, Supreme Court, Office of the Ombudsman, Judicial Service Commission, Human Rights Commission and Guyana Elections Commission.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 15
Govt. courts Microsoft, Cisco on E-Governance project Government is talking to US tech giants, Microsoft and CISCO Corporation, for possible help in the country’s E-Governance project. According to the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday, Adviser on E-Governance, Floyd Levi, recently met with regional representatives of Microsoft and CISCO Corporations to discuss support for government’s planned Information and Communications Technology (ICT) initiatives. The team of IT executives included Senior Systems Engineer at Cisco Systems Inc., Garfield Gordon; Territory Business Manager Trinidad and the Caribbean Cisco Systems Inc., Richard Doldron, and Corporate Territory Manager for Microsoft Trinidad & Tobago, Jonathan Jagai. “These initiatives are geared towards centralizing key services and licensing for Government Ministries and agencies,” the ministry explained yesterday. Levi informed the group that Government agencies will soon consolidate internet access and email services for ministries which would see email addresses for these agencies being moved to the gov.gy domain. The US$32M EGovernance was launched a
few years ago to create a network linking government and other State agencies throughout the country. But its rollout has been delayed with the collapse of a fibre optic internet cable from Brazil which has been suspended because of technical difficulties. The new administration has vowed to revamp the EGovernance project, promising on the campaign trail to the May 11 elections to examine costs, among other things. The E-Gov. Guyana Unit is primarily focused on facilitating the implementation of two ICT ventures integral to development in Guyana. The first project, the Transmission Network, revolves around the roll-out of a fiber optic network that allows high speed data, video and voice communication. The aim of the project is the installation of a robust infrastructure that will be utilized for the consolidation of government processes It involved the deployment of a fiber optic cable along the coast connecting Georgetown to Moleson Creek in the east and Anna Regina to the west, to Linden and Lethem in the south by utilizing fiber links. It is the latter that has broken down.It was envisioned that
wireless sites will be constructed to provide the “last mile” connection utilizing 4G technologies (LTE TDD). Government agencies such as police stations, airports, schools and hospitals will receive coverage in order to access the network service. More than 50 towers have been erected along the coastlands. Part Two of the E-Governance project involves the construction of a Data Network. This project is committed to the establishment of one centralized facility which will host most of the government ICT applications, offer internet service, operational and maintenance service. The Data Center has been built and is housed behind Castellani House, Vlissengen Road.
From right: Senior Systems Engineer at Cisco Systems Inc., Garfield Gordon; Territory Business Manager Trinidad and the Caribbean, Richard Doldron; Adviser on E-Government, Floyd Levi, and Corporate Territory Manager for Microsoft Trinidad & Tobago, Jonathan Jagai.
Page 16
The Consolidated Fund... Article 216 of the Constitution dictates that all “revenues or other moneys raised or received by Guyana … be paid into and form one Consolidated Fund”. This has created much controversy over the years and for some time, remained clouded in uncertainty as it seemed to only apply to some State agencies. With plans to overhaul the financial system, Finance Minister Winston Jordan hopes to ensure that Article 216 of the Constitution is respected by all statutory institutions. He recalled that the controversy over respecting that aspect of the Constitution was further agitated when former
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
New ‘transfer’ system to remove monies held in private accounts by State agencies Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, gave the Audit Office advice in relation to the Lotto Funds. The advice flew in the face of Article 216. Jordan said, too, that it did not help that the Acts establishing a number of statutory bodies which collected moneys on behalf of Guyana, contained conflicting provisions on how the annual surpluses of those entities are to be accounted for. The Finance Minister said that what this meant in a number of cases, is that every time a statutory body is established to take over the functions previously carried out by a ministry or department of the Government, the revenues
previously collected by that ministry or department were at least temporarily lost to the State. “Immediately, officers from my Ministry will begin consultations with those bodies with a view to effecting transfer of the accumulated balances on their accounts, and will work out modalities for regular inyear transfers to the Consolidated Fund,” Jordan stated. With regard to the Lotto Fund case, Nandlall had said that the court was clear in its ruling that the then PPP Government had not acted unconstitutionally by not placing the proceeds from the Lotto Fund into the Consolidated Fund.
But the Public Accounts Committee of the Tenth Parliament had ordered the Auditor General, Deodat Sharma, to seek “independent” legal advice with regard to the controversial fund. Former Chairman of the Committee, Carl Greenidge, had said that the PAC was of course divided on the matter as those who represent the interest of the then PPP government communicated that the matter was already dealt with at the level of the court, and as such they were not in agreement with the Auditor General being told to seek independent legal advice. “He (Sharma) was told to get independent advice, because the advice given before was by the (former) Attorney General, and it was not appropriate because the AG advises the Cabinet, not the Auditor General…” Though the Committee may be divided on the issue, Greenidge was of the firm belief that the Lotto Funds and others should be paid into the Consolidated Fund, “because these aren’t bodies
established under the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act which allows for the establishment of extra budgetary agencies, and it is not established as such, for them to keep the money out of the fund and as such I maintain my position on the issue.” Trevor Williams, of the Alliance For Change (AFC), who served as a Member of Parliament, had insisted that the law is clear about the destination of State funds. Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram, in a letter back in January 13, 2013 had said that Nandlall gave his own interpretation on the decision handed down by Justice Diane Insanally in the case of Desmond Trotman versus Attorney General, popularly known as the Lotto Funds case. Nandlall claimed that Justice Insanally decided the case on its merit, finding that “the deposit of the monies in the Development Fund of Guyana (Lotto Fund) is in accordance with Article 216 of the Constitution, the provisions of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act and the Lotteries Act, thereby vindicating the Government’s position.” The truth cannot be more different, Ram contended in his letter. The action, he reminded,
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan was initiated in April 2010 by Desmond Trotman, a Political Activist and now Member of Parliament for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). Essentially, Trotman asked the Court through his Attorneys, Miles Fitzpatrick, S.C and Christopher Ram, whether the share of the revenue received by the Government from the Guyana Lottery Company Limited, a private company incorporated under the Companies Act 1991, is required to be paid into the Consolidated Fund in accordance with Article 216 of the Constitution and Sections 21 and 38 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003. He also asked whether as a consequence, the expenditure by the (Continued on page 18)
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Crabwood Creek man charged with friend’s murder A Crabwood Creek man was arraigned for the murder of Ganesh Permaul, at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Rohan Persaud, aka Mango, 37, of Crabwood Creek, was not required to plead to the charge after it was read to him by Magistrate Rabindranath Singh. Persaud, a father of three, is accused of murdering Ganesh Permaul called Bunjal on September 17, last. Persaud an automobile body works specialist stood in the dock and seemed rather distant and puzzled. He was unrepresented in court. Prosecutor, Inspector Godfrey Playter, requested that the next court be adjourned for two weeks, since the police are still seeking advice on the matter. The request was granted, and
Charged: Rohan Persaud Persaud is expected to return to court on October 12. Meanwhile, an autopsy that was performed on Permaul, revealed that the mechanic who was found dead on the bridge leading to Persaud’s home at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne last Thursday, died as a result of
asphyxiation. Permaul, 29, of Lot 32 Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, was found dead by Persaud, who told Police that he discovered the body after returning home. Family members said they were told that he was beaten to death. They explained that the man was found with lacerations about his body. However, Persaud reportedly told investigators that before leaving home, he saw Permaul on the veranda and he appeared to be okay. Persaud revealed to them also, that he sent Permaul to buy Narcotics at a nearby shop but he returned empty handed, this he stated aggravated him. Neighbours stated that they overheard an argument between the two the said night.
Alleged Montrose granny killer further remanded Colin Alleyne, who is accused of murdering Montrose Granny, Danrasie Ganesh, appeared in low spirits as he made his second court appearance yesterday in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Courts. Alleyne, a welder of Lot 7 Public Road, Timehri, Cemetery Road, East Bank Demerara was further remanded to prison until November 12, by Magistrate Zamilla Ally. He is accused of murdering Ganesh, on August 1, in her Montrose, East Coast Demerara home. He has still not retained an Attorney. Kaieteur News understands that the police file is still incomplete and in possession of the Director o f P u b l i c P r o s ecutions (DPP). Danrasie ‘Carmen’
Murdered: Danrasie ‘Carmen’ Ganesh
Murder Accused: Colin Alleyne
Ganesh’s battered body was found in her home on August 1, last, by relatives who went to check on her after she failed to answer her neighbours’ calls. The gruesome murder was captured on surveillance camera. It was reported that
Ganesh’s killer, believed to be Alleyne, clubbed her on the head with a tyre wrench and dragged her into a corner, where she collapsed. It was then the killer wrapped a hand-towel around her neck, kicked and stomp the old woman until she lay motionless.
CHI Cardiologist sheds light... (From page 23) department of the Ministry.” Once in receipt of that correspondent the request is assessed and a decision is made on whether or not patients are eligible for assistance and the amount that would be forthcoming. And this level of support has been ongoing since the introduction of CHI in 2006 save and except for a period when the Ministry’s fund intended to support needy patients had reportedly dried up. Despite a change in Government earlier this year the support has been sustained,
according to Dr. Carpen. “We have been having a fairly good relationship with the Ministry of Public Health as far as patient funding is concerned.” As part of the continued collaboration with CHI and the Ministry, Dr. Carpen disclosed that “we are in the process of finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to guide operations.” This publication understands that one of the key points in the pending MOU is that “we have to be able to treat the patients in the GPHC, in the public sector, who have
an emergency need for the services we provide.” “A lot of what we do are life saving and life changing procedures, and are completely unacceptable that patients are denied timely care because of their social or financial situation,” said Dr. Carpen. He said that the cost for the services offered is of importance since the cost recovery mechanism is important. Cost recovery, he noted, is essential to the extent that it is necessary to keep CHI operational and for it to grow and expand at an appropriate pace.
Page 25
Page 26
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Bids opened for UG loan agency construction During yesterday’s session at the National Tender and Administration Board (NPTAB), bids were opened under the Ministry of Finance for bidders to construct the students’ loan agency, University of Guyana. The engineer’s estimate was $17,808,924.
Under the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), there were also bids for the supply and delivery of office supplies.
Under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD), bids were opened for the supply of spares for vessels.
Under the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), bids were opened for the supply and delivery of LED lamps and occupancy sensors.
And finally, bids were opened under the Ministry of Agriculture for the construction of a multipurpose building at Mabaruma, Region no. 1.
Prisoners set fire to Camp.... From page 13 prisoner hospitalized with stab wounds. The vendetta is said to be
between inmates from Agricola and East Ruimveldt, and has resulted in at least two recent execution-style
killings. Injured last Friday was remand prison Romel Ross, 19, of Agricola, East Coast Demerara. He was rushed to the GPHC with what appeared to be multiple stab wounds, but did not appear to be in a critical state. Relatives said that Ross has been in prison since January. He has reportedly been attacked twice before, and a relative said that they had pleaded with prison authorities to have him isolated for his safety. Kaieteur News was told that members of one gang have threatened to harm inmates from Agricola, and that this stems from the recent murder of 23-year-old Kellon Hinds, called ‘Baige,’ who was gunned down a few weeks ago in East Ruimveldt. He was killed hours after being released from custody. Hinds himself was a suspect in the murder of Sherwyn Barrow, who was slain in ‘Warlock’, East Ruimveldt last May. Shawn Barrow, a relative of the slain Sherwyn Barrow, was charged two weeks ago for Kellon Hinds’s murder. He is currently an inmate at Camp Street. (Additional reporting by Akola Thompson)
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 27
Ex-GuySuCo worker busted with coke, gun after sting operation, remanded Businessman, Seekumar Rambarran, who has been under police radar for some time now, was hauled before City Magistrate Ann McLennan on Monday, after being busted with narcotics, an illegal gun and ammunition. Rambarran, a former pest controller at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) of 805 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice is accused of having a shotgun in his possession on September 18, last, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence. It was further alleged that on September 18 also, he had 51 live rounds of 12 gauge ammunition in his possession, when he had no firearm licence. The third charge alleged that on the same day, Rambarran had 26 grams of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. And finally, the businessman was accused of having 36 grams of cannabis in his possession, also for the purpose of trafficking. Rambarran pleaded not guilty to all four charges after they were read to him in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. He was remanded to prison after the Magistrate ruled that no special reasons were brought forth by his attorney, James Bond. The defendant is scheduled to make his next court appearance on October 5, in the
Seekumar Rambarran Springlands Magistrate’s Court. In highlighting special reasons to the court, Attorney Bond told the court that his client is a very sickly man. He argued that the illegal items were not found in his client’s possession. Bond continued, “The items found by the police – my client had no custody, control or knowledge of any single item.” Further, Bond urged the police to be truthful. He claimed that the items mentioned in the charge were found some 200 feet away from his client’s home – in an empty lot infested with bushes. As Bond continued to present special reasons, he explained that Rambarran and his wife were both arrested and dragged to the Criminal
Investigation Department (CID), Eve Leary, where they were interrogated. He argued that the police subsequently released Rambarran’s wife by some ‘special logic’; after they decided she had no custody of the narcotics, ammo and gun. Furthermore, the lawyer attested that Rambarran never provided the police with an oral or written confession. Attorney Bond told the Magistrate, “I am urging this court to grant my client bail in a reasonable sum”. He pointed out that his client was forced to sell “sweetie and cigarettes” because he cannot be sustained by pension. However, Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones objected to the defendant being granted pre-trial liberty. In doing so, Jones provided the court with reasons to uphold his request. Firstly, the prosecutor presented the facts of the matter to the court. Jones explained that ranks at CID, after receiving certain information went on a two-week sting operation, where they placed Rambarran under surveillance. He added that after the ranks gathered sufficient information, they entered the defendant’s home and saw him throwing away something in white containers. Jones disclosed that the police retrieved the containers and found the narcotics inside.
Venezuela sends troops, anti-aircraft... (From page 3) an exercise to the east of the country, exercising operational deployment.” He called on “the people of Venezuela to remain calm because we are really getting ready... even with all fronts we are taking today.” The minister also reported that deployments will be made in the Paraguana peninsula. Paraguana Peninsula is in the Caribbean Sea, and borders Colombia, Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire. On August 19, President Maduro ordered the closure of some borders with Colombia in 16 of the 23 municipalities following a shooting attack against three Venezuelan military by “paramilitary suspects”. Venezuela is set to receive early next year dozens of Chinese-made military amphibious units, including artilleries. Recently, the Venezuelan leader announced he is purchasing 13 warplanes from Russia to boost his military capabilities. Venezuela’s aggression to Guyana took on harsher tones in May after US-owned ExxonMobil announced a significant oil find in concessions belonging to this country. Maduro reportedly dispatched its patrol ships, issuing decrees that said it owns the majority of Essequibo, the biggest county in Guyana, and even the waters where ExxonMobil had made the dis-
covery. All the while, Maduro and Venezuela kept insisting it wanted to keep bilateral relations with Guyana. However, he recalled his ambassador. C o i n c i d e n t a l l y, Venezuela’s aggressive stance was made known on May 26, 2015- the same day that Guyana celebrated its independence anniversary and when President Granger was inaugurated. The new Government has said that it will not pursue the UN Good Officer process which had attempted to find a resolution to the claims by Venezuela. Rather, Guyana has approached the United Nations with an international court matter not ruled out. Venezuela has already signaled intentions to end oil-
for-rice deal with Guyana in November. This country has increased its oil shipments from Trinidad and Tobago, reducing its dependence on Venezuela. There are thousands of Guyanese living in Venezuela with cross border trade significant. The border issue with Venezuela has been simmering for more 100 years now. Venezuela’s aggression would also come at a time when that country is preparing for General Elections later this year and amidst food and other critical supplies shortages. The border issue with Guyana and other neighbours of Venezuela has been seen as ploy by Maduro and his party to distract voters ahead of the elections.
Brazilians reportedly... From page 12 DaSilva, 40, was found dead in the Tamakay Backdam, Mazaruni River. A post mortem performed by Government Pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh, revealed that the man died of asphyxiation. According to reports, Da Silva had left his campsite on June 1, in the company of four workmates to run an errand at a shop. The men later returned to the campsite, but Da Silva did not show up with them. A passerby found his body the following day. In July, 57-year-old Antonio Rodriguez Da Silva was chopped to death in an argument with another man. And a few weeks ago, Josi Mar Perrieria Silva, 51, of Boa Vista, Brazil, was found dead in his camp at Mowasi Backdam. His body bore a gunshot wound to the forehead. According to reports, Silva left his camp to check on the gold mat on his dredge which is located some distance away. It is believed that his attackers ambushed and killed him before disappearing with the mat.
Prosecutor Jones related that the gun and ammunition were found in Rambarran’s garden. Jones said that the defendant offered the police a bribe of $1M, to not institute charges against him. But Attorney Bond, after
hearing the allegation rose immediately to his client’s defence. Bond confidently told the court that Rambarran never offered to bribe the police. He informed that on his visit to CID headquarters, the police never
indicated such to him. Magistrate McLennan after listening to submissions from both parties remanded Rambarran to prison after she found that there were no special reasons to support Bond’s case.
Page 28
Kaieteur News
FOR RENT
SERVICES
WANTED
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Supervisor to work at hotel in charity rtilak@adamantiumholdings.com or contact 223-5273/4
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana Passport application. Graphics design, Advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. PARTY DECORATING: balloon creation, back drops etc. for weddings, birthdays, anniversary etc. Make your event extra special! Tel Maya: 642-6664 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES,AIR-CONDITIONERS, WASHINGMACHINES,TVS, MICROWAVES,FREEZERSCALL: 629-4946 OR 225-4822 REPAIRS & SPARE, FRIDGE, FREEZER, A/C, WASHERS, STOVES CONTACT NICK: 6831312, 627-3206 Floor sanding & Lacquering House plans, Estimate & painting, Boat for Santa Mission - Call: 650-4362 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building. visadocumentsgy@yahoo.comCall : 225-6496, 662-6045 Jadesco: offers architectural designs, civil engineering estimations, construction & rehabilitation -Call: 612-0468; 629-3605 or email: jadesco15@gmail.com Eagle’s fridge re-gas @ 99-100 New Market Street - $8,000 & washing machine repairs. Phone: 697-2969, 223-5818 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Desmond Repair Services Fridge, AC, gas stove, microwave, washer, etc on the spot repairs –Call: (592)678-8683; 687-9709 Landscaping: Palms, largest varieties of plants, Used in every one of our unique landscapes- Call: 648-1821/ 219-0468 FOR SALE/RENT American pool tables –Call: 277-0578
Experienced hire car driver & dispatcher @ Princess Hotel Providence-Call: 616-5419 Two female bartenders at Tajoes’s Sports Bar, Pouderoyen W.B.D must have good communication skills –call: 264-0041/ 6841838 Ranger Must Know How To Use GPS contact 223-5273/4 1Cook to prepare local / international dishes for catering establishment – Call: 660-4904; 223-5621 between 9am-2pm Live in home aid in Republic Park, 1 week on, 1 week off $13,000 weekly –Call: 6750767; 627-5098 Honest, experienced sales clerk. Apply at Nanda’s Boutique-223 Camp Street, next to Gas Station Urgently needed live in waitress –Call: 670-2323 One welder fabricator, to work in workshop on the West Coast, on a percentage basisCall: 679-4992 One live in maid –Tel:6755256 Field sales agents @ Max Consultancy & Accounting Services, preferably males, must be experienced in this field –Call: 223-1855 Senior Mechanic to work in Georgetown –Call: 218-5105 Single Nurse wanted to care for elderly woman 25-35, life changing opportunity – Call: 687-5837 Canter Driver to work on W.C.D -$30,000, porter $20,000 –Call: 684-8231 One pastry maker, must also be able to make finger foodsCall: 660-4904; 223-5621 between 9am-2pm
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 One bedroom apartment for couple -$30,000 monthly – Call: 223-3958 or 660-9463 House and land at Canal #2 Polder -$35,000 monthlyContact: 613-1860; 685-9721 2 Self Contained rooms; water (hot & cold) A/C & phone$US1500 @ Vlissingen RoadContact: 660-9478; 672-0865 One four storey building at Lot 14 Croal and Lden Street to rent- Contact 6631876 Three Storey 75ft’X30ft’ bldg, open floors, 2 offices, 2 washrooms, driveways, 25B Princess St, Charlestown. Call: 223-0654; 225-0605 Two -2 bedrooms apartment @ 35 Howes Street- Contact Pet Boy Shop, between the hours 11am-6pm - $45,000 & $50,000 monthly 1-3 Bedrooms upstairs, 1-2 bedrooms downstairs for rent @ Cornelia Ida W.C.D – Contact: 277-0108 Three bedrooms apartment for rent at Section ‘A’ , Diamond E.B.D. For more information please call: 954479-7454/ 685-5023 Two bedroom apartment for rent Section A Diamond. For more information please call: 954-479-7454/ 685-5023 3 Bedroom upper flat for rent at Vreed-En-Hoop JunctionCall: 661-0162 Business place to rent for Supermarket or Restaurant or Bakery-Call: 665-6919 GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW & MORE- CALL: 6750767, 627-5098 Business place to rent at Mon Repos E.C.D four two bedroom apartment for rent at Block 8 Mon Repos E.C.DCall: 618-1754; 681-1508; 2206168 LAND FOR SALE 33 Acres prime agriculture land located at Plantation Flensberg W.B.D-price negotiable-Contact Erick Boodhoo: Call: 654-6229; 627-0556 Eccles $5M, Parfaite Harmonie -$1.2M, $1.5M $2.8M, Zeelugt -$2M, Uitvlugt -$2.5M- Call: 6117223; 604-2207 Concrete fenced land in residential high income area at Republic Park, Water, light, etc-Call: 233-0570
VACANCY Male & female workers, accountant, checkers, bond clerk @ RA Soda Factory Rosignol West Coast Berbice: Tel: 330-2399; 6235920 Joiners and semi skill joinerCall: 699-9671; 642-5797 Drivers, Drink machine operator, anyone with mechanical ideas @ RA Soda Factory Rosignol West Coast Berbice: Tel: 330-2399; 623-5920 One maintenance worker with at least 5yrs experienced to work @ ice factory meadow bank wharf –Call: 231-1408; 642-9191; between 8am-2pm 1 Driver to drive delivery truck – apply at Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling. Branch manager wanted to work in New Amsterdam, attractive salary –Call: 6093650 Diesel Mechanics to work at Mining Firm must have knowledge of Perkins engine & excavators- Contact: 2269768 One experienced driver/ purchaser. Must have recommendations, must between35-45years old – Contact: 226-9768; 661-5307 Indoor Salesman with sales skills, secondary education, customer friendly @ Key Food Trading, Mc Doom, next to Post Office . Immediate vacancy- 1 cook $18,000 weekly, 4 waitresses $17,000 weekly, free meals & accommodation, EBD-Call: 684-2119 One experienced hair dresserContact Magic Touch SalonTel: 225-6492 Salesgirl, send written application & passport size picture to Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff Street, Cambellville-Call: 227-5286-9 Handyman, room attendant, security guard-male –Call: 225-0198 or 233 South Road, Lacytown Engineer for road work contact 223-5273/4
Wednesday September 23, 2015
SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Affordable salon services: pedi, mani, wash & blowout, facials, etc $2,500 each. Vogue @ Kalyan Mall, Lamaha Street. Tel: 647-1773/660-5257
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Land at Schoonord (Next To Demerara Harbour Bridge), 45' X 100' $ 6 M, 60' X 100' $ 7.5M- Contact 650-0402 / 260-4988 Canadian made, white bath tub Jacuzzi - $275,000, baby food processor, stroller/car seat -$20,000-Call: 666-4634; 644-2646
TO LET Flat house, two bedroom with toilet and bath -$35,000 a month –Call: 684-8877 Three bedrooms executive concrete top flat in South Ruimveldt Gardens –Call: 218-1949 One bedroom apartment Grove, E.B.D -$36,000 –Tel: 642-1956 Furnished 2 bedroom apartments in Nandy Park, parking available. For further information – Call: 619-4824 Space for salon with three work stations –Call: 227-3626
Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games & applications. Delivery also – Call: 672-2566; 265-3232 One Pool Table for sale contact 223-5273/4 1 Aqua Sol water heater price- $150,000 negotiable, interested person can contact: 264-2946 Transported property in Tuschen Scheme, Main Road/ bank loan available$10.M negotiable-Call: 6848231
4 Gold claims located in Mining District #5, Wanamu 2 Bedrooms unfurnished Calalu, area Barama River – bottom flat – no children-Call: Contact: 690-7932 227-3626 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc Call: 225-9032, 647-2943
VACANCY Head Chef and Chef Carnegie training or grilling experienced would be an asset. Call: 600-7388, 225-7933 Male supervisor to work in Housekeeping Dept. Call: 225-0198 or 233 South Road Lacytown E&N Beck Establishment: experienced milling machine & late operator, experienced driver with police clearance & reference-Call: 225-6272; 2275273
Hauler operator contact 2235273/4
Neil’s Body Work- Call: 6490659; 670-1637
Foreman for road work contact 223-5273/4 Motor grader operator contact 223-5273/4
Office assistant Sales Clerk preferably with experience and from West Coast Demerara- Call: 254-1801
Compactor operator contact 223-5273/4 One ice machine operator to work at ice factory on Meadow Bank Wharf, please Call: 231-1408; 642-9191 between 8am-2pm Salesgirls @ D. Singh & Sons –Call: 226-1316
Manager wanted, for horticulture nursery, On lower Linden Highway- Call: 2190468 Housekeepers/cleaners, females only- Contact Aagman Restaurant/ Email: aagmanrestaurant@gmail.comCall:219-0161; 219-0158
Reduced Prices: Dell/HP laptop & desktop computers complete, from $49,000, free games and educational software @ Future – Call: 231-2206 Mazda Axela: 2008 service, excellent condition, price $1.5M negotiable, serious enquiries only-Contact Shawn: 668-3412, Farida: +1868-318-0650 1 Motor Car, 1 Toyota Corolla (AE91), PGG3474-Call: 6844094 One male Mastiff/Doberman large breed, ears cut, vaccinated, de-wormed, 6 months old-Call: 233-0570; 629-7426 One new 6" land dredges complete. 4 Cylinder 4.236 Perkins Engines price $4M negotiable – Call: 642-4133 or 225-3818 Pools table (slate) & house hold items –Call: 616-0398; 676-7643; 269-0916 LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 MASSAGE Relaxing massage servicesCall: 674-8147 Continued on page 29
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 29
Letters... Where your views make the news
Is succession planning an active consideration in the Public Sector? DEAR EDITOR, Several questions keep coming to my mind when I ponder on the performance of certain organisations if say their top three executives were separated by retirement, resignation, termination or for medical reasons. Would they continue to run smoothly? When I consider that in some public sector institutions senior functionaries seek permission to defer their vacation leave, or request payment in lieu of said leave, I wonder if the issue of succession planning is ever an active consideration. One of the highest priorities for any Chief Executive should be to develop his or her staff and to have a succession plan in place for at least his successor. During a leadership change, a succession plan maintains the
continuity of the organisation’s mission and reduces uncertainty and resistance to change. Succession planning - as a process, facilitates a review for leadership talent while identifying possible successors, and then providing those individuals with the training, mentoring, and support they need to prepare themselves for critical roles within the organisation when vacancies occur. In Police Forces, although succession planning - when it takes place, is often associated primarily with the Chief Executive’s (or Commissioner’s) position, it is also essential to identifying and preparing leadership at all levels of the organisation. Having a succession plan at every leadership level ensures that no matter what the change, there will be
experienced and trained personnel to step into leadership positions. In other words, nepotism would have no place to secure a foothold in any sort of law enforcement agency, regardless of size. Therefore, it is for this very reason that leadership development for staff is critical particularly in an organisation moving towards modernisation. Determining in a structured manner which withstands scrutiny, on who will ultimately step into police leadership and senior management roles is imperative for maintaining momentum and stability, particularly in a public safety and security environment that is vulnerable to economic and social shocks, and susceptible to political manipulation. Police Forces which do not have in place a
succession plan are sometimes subject to agendas that do not have organisational development as a number one priority. These are manifested in several ways, including unwillingness to proceed on vacation leave over an extended period with one of the reasons being that the exigencies of the police service do not permit departure at the time. What this explanation does is prove the point that a succession plan is an absolute necessity as no one is the fount of all knowledge and none is indispensable. Editor, the International Association of Chiefs of Police Leadership Conference Continued on page 30
Freddie’s objection to the... From page 5 committed to himself and family. Given Jagan’s stature and contribution to our freedom, no rental fee should have been charged for the use of a government building to host his papers or a research center dedicated to such an iconic figure. Dr. Jagan was a hero to current Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Vice President Khemraj Ramjattan, two key figures of AFC, as well as to several of its M.Ps and many of its members. It is doubtful that they will venture into the direction being suggested by Freddie to cancel the contract for use of Red House, where Jagan dwelled when he was Premier. Even APNU M.Ps and President Granger admire and respect Jagan that they expressed no objection to the rental fee for use of the building to honour the legendary figure. Only “a gachu” like Freddie, as we say among Indian folks, would render such an objection. Freddie is determined to wage a fight over the great legacy of Jagan that has been institutionalized in the form of the Jagan Center (a research library). Freddie had penned several letters to that effect ever since APNU-AFC formed the government calling on it to cancel the binding contract. Nothing could be more insulting to the memory of Jagan than this sordid idea coming from a Jagan hater. Dr. Jagan, in addition to being a freedom fighter, was a respected scholar (author of several books and numerous articles and a sought after
lecturer); Freddie is not even qualified to shine his shoes. The Jagan Center is a tribute to the nation’s founding father, his vision and dreams for the country. It is intended to inspire generations of people who will get an opportunity to learn about the contributions of this great figure in our freedom struggle. The Center also makes available Jagan’s views on various global issues pertaining to development, justice and equality. Freddie’s objection to the use of the building as a memorial smacks of political petty-mindedness. It also undermines the very purpose such a memorial was meant to serve, as repository of history relating to great man who led the revolution against colonialism as well as against Burnhamism. Indeed, the objection over use of the institution seems but only a small part of a larger project of Freddie and his acolytes to challenge the contributions of Jagan to the nation as well as recent historiography and to erase collective memories we suffered under colonialism and Burnhamism. Not unexpectedly, the PPP thinks (thought) of the Memorial Center as its fiefdom and nothing is wrong with that – the PPP was Jagan and vice versa. The PPP’s action to rent the building at a nominal rate was not secretive. It was well known to the public. There was no public or private opposition to it; not even the PNC (APNU) opposed it. In fact, the PNC must have queried why there was a rental fee at all when Dr. Jagan
turned over all of his possessions to the state and did so much for the country. What is a few thousand dollars or lost rental income (of a few hundred American dollars) to the state in giving a building in memory to such a great figure? It should be noted that Dr. Jagan was quite sensitive about (extravagant) spending of state money to the point of being described as “miser” or “canduce” as we say among IndoGuyanese. He would have saved millions of US dollars in his frugality of use of state funds. In addition, Jagan was the kind who would return his paycheck or travel funds to the state. That was the nature of the man. So one cannot understand why Freddie would object to only a nominal rental fee for the use of a state building that has historic ties to Jagan. The small rental fee was meant to provide institutional stability for the use of the building. The Jagan center is a memorial to all who fought for the liberation of the nation, for all the nationalists who were Jagan’s contemporaries, as well as those who fought for free and fair elections, including this writer. It is representative of their/our collective vision. Freddie did not contribute significantly to that struggle, not like some of us anyway. So he can never understand the purpose and value of a building dedicated by the state at a nominal rent to Jagan’s contribution to the nation and managed by the PPP. Vishnu Bisram
WANTED Two experienced General Managers for a hinterland operation. One experienced General Manager for a crusher. Applicants should contact 644-4284 or 223-5180 Attractive salaries offered 2yrs Experienced seamstress – knowledge: flat/ over lockers/ Serger machines, meeting of deadlines/target a must; preferably E.C.D Contact: 270-4852 & 645-5533 One domestic to work in Diamond- Call: 216-2502 Straight stitch/Over edge machine operators- Call: 2222541 (8:00am-4:00pm MonFri) One hotel/club manager to work on the Essequibo Coast: Contact: 615-6172; 226-9768 We buy land with or without title only residential house lots, Farm, Herstelling, and Eccles-Call: 611-7223; 6042207
From page 28
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Mazda Axela, PTT series, low mileage, e x c e l l e n t condition -owner migrating Tel: 649-0956 Toyota Rush- Unregistered $3M negotiable; Honda CRV 2003 model PSS 2018- $3.1M negotiable, pre-order any vehicle. Call: 655-3400 1 Unregistered 2006 Toyota Rush -$2.8M negotiable , unregistered 2007 Mitsubishi Convertible, both fully loaded -$2.8M negotiableContact:629-2314 1-192 Carina AC, Alarm, music deck, PLL/HC series now -$650,000 negotiable, owner migrating-Call: 6873241 One Honda CRV Immaculate Condition 17" mags, CD, AC, price -$1,850,000 negotiable – Call: 626-2884 Kaw a s a k i N i n ja 650R, excellent condition, lime green $650,000 asking price Tel: 655-2561 Unregistered pit-bull bus (3M) Noah, Voxy (1-8)-Call: 603-9700 One 1.5 Ton Toyota Toyoace Canter, good working condition-Contact: 623-1202 Toyota Starlet Glanza Turbo, PPP series –price -$1.350M negotiable –Call: 624-7155 Pitbull minibus-Call: 6886316; 603-4494 1 AE100 Toyota Sprinter: AC, CD, Mag fully powered never worked hire in excellent condition $875,000 –Call: 619-1047 2007 RAV4-$5,800,000, 2007Allion-$2.9M, 2009 IST $2.8M, 2007 Duelis -$4.6M, 2007 Fielder -$2.4M – Call:226-8953
Waitress to work a bar- Call: 612-2522
2007 Premio - $3.3M, 2006 Ractis - $2.2M, 2006 Escudo $4.3M, 2006 Rush -$3.0MCall:609-3650
Farm in need of, Large quantities of Paraquat- Call us today: 219-0468
HB Yellow 192, good condition -$650,000 – Call: 647-0271; 684-2539
Female domestic to work in Trinidad- Call 1868-683-1528
Unregistered Fielder Wagon, Spacio, fully loaded, rims, camera, bodykit, HID, dark interior-Call: 617-5536 Old Model Toyota Mark2, good working condition$340,000 – Call: 667-8561 EDUCATION
EDUCATION Register now! 6 weeks course, pedicure & manicureCall: 618-8536; 696-2295
Princeton College Forms 1-5 (5000) CXC adult classes $1,500 a subject, Phonics/ Grade 2,4,6,9 lessons Call: 231-1209, 690-5008,657-7398
PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461. 2 Storied transported concrete property upstairs 2 bedrooms, downstairs 2 bedrooms, fully grilled, block ‘8’ MonRepos, E.C.D -$18M- Call: 625-1514; office 231-7255 Property @ West Minister W.B.D, 3 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom & 2 Verandahs Property Vacant possession- Call: 660-9478; 672-0865, see T&T Realty on FaceBook. 1 Flat house on 1 acre land with chicken pen & fruits tree at Unity E.C.D- $11M-Call: 642-7898 Business Property for sale @ Friendship Public Road –Call: 621-6878 One-two storey house with four bedrooms at 160 Stewartville, land -50’X120’, building 24’X60’ – price $10.5M –Call: 220-9419; 627-9794 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities - Call: 662-9335; 612-3244 2 Storey 45x35 concrete property, lower flat incomplete. Land 65x120 @ Diamond N/S 5th Avenue,E.B.D- Call: 664-5052 House and land for sale, situated at lot 95 La Penitence Street Albouystown. Call: 687-5851; 1604-589-1852 Transported Property @ Grove/Diamond, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained, concrete fence, grilled store room & Shed, (45X26) – Call: 660-1353, 216-4338
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL:CARS&SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 2193900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807
Page 30
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news
I am sure other businesses Our political actors have read and learnt are feeling the same pain the script of our colonial masters well DEAR EDITOR, My friend owns a business on Robb Street, and is having a hard time attracting customers because of the new parallel parking rules that were put into effect by the Traffic Department of the Police Force. Potential customers have to find parking on Waterloo Street, which is also near impossible. His downturn in sales affects his VAT contribution, which in turn leads to less revenue in the government coffers. I am sure other businesses are feeling the same pain. He felt the brunt of the law when a friend visited
in the late evening to collect a package. She was sitting in the car when an officer came up and threatened to write a ticket, even though the engine was running! Whether she was victim of “leff or write” only God knows. While I understand the need to ease traffic congestion, the Traffic Chief should have had a meeting with the stakeholders to address how the change would affect them, and also to implement a customer friendly arrangement such as a one hour limit for parking or another workable alternative. Yuri Westmaas
DEAR EDITOR, Good day to you, I write to air a constant view I have noticed. Before I do so, allow me to congratulate the new government more specifically the Minister of Education Mr Rupert Roopnarine and the President of Guyana, H.E David Granger for their acknowledgment of a serious problem, youth unemployment. Many obstacles are visible such as opportunities for entrepreneurship training and the availability of part-time jobs. The Minister within the Ministry, Ms Henry as recorded in the newspaper alluded that they cannot force skill training on the youth, they have to want it. A very good point, but I disagree. As a member of the public service, it is your duty to re-evaluate the failure of the field and if needed, source possible solutions through diplomatic channels if necessary or consensus as I’m sure that our unemployment issue is not original to Guyana only and there are means to address this issue. If a message is not communicated correctly then the next step is to evaluate how the message can be clearly understood, most
times leading to a change in the methodology. Recently, I started a group on Facebook called ‘Job Market Guyana’ and in 7 days we have over 5000 members and growing. With membership of mostly youth, I get messages of people requesting part-time jobs so as to facilitate study or family time. I found that most businesses in Guyana are opposed to that concept. Can anything be done to consider the option of having more part-time jobs available on the market? Can the business sector consider this as a means of employment? With four-hour workday, a condensed work schedule can be very effective to any business for specific purposes such as record keeping, data entry, etc. I hope that we can address this issue through more consensus. As a young Guyanese aged 27, I represent the majority of the current population. We will be the leaders of tomorrow, and we are closely paying attention to how much or how little our voices and interests are represented. Marvin Wray
Most businesses in Guyana are opposed to part-time employment
I agree with the calls for an efficient Commercial Court DEAR EDITOR, In the September 15, 2015 issue of your newspaper, you reported extensively on a grant initiative funded by the Canadian Government to the tune of Can. $750,000 for a project that is designed to improve the local justice system from the ground up. Four days earlier you
published a letter written by Attorney-at-Law Jonas M.F Codett, which focused on deficiencies and inefficiency of the Commercial Court {The Commercial Court needs to be more efficient, KN, Sept. 11, 2015}. Well over one year ago you reported on the functioning of the Commercial Court and asked the same question,
Is succession planning...
From page 29 in 1999 recommended that to minimise the potential for cynicism and burnout, Police Chiefs through their Commanders and Supervisors should monitor the outlook of police officers to get a feel of changes in their perceptions and feelings. Chiefs were also cautioned against assuming that their brand of leadership is well received by all officers or that their own expectations and outcomes match. In that regard, the conference suggested that formalised feedback mechanisms should be used to gauge officer opinion on issues. I hold the strong view that an effective leader is one who is open to critique and has the capacity to adjust his leadership model to meet legitimate concerns of staff. Finally, the best legacy a Chief Executive can leave is to ensure through succession planning, that the transition after his departure is smooth and the organisation is well prepared with an adequate pool of potential leaders to take the his place. Any other path is destructive. Patrick E. Mentore
i.e. if this court is simply inefficient or suffers from other defects. In the aforementioned letter Attorney-at-Law Coddett recommended the necessity of having another judge presiding in this Court to deal with the deficiencies outlined. Mr Coddett’s recommendation is that “... the time has come for a reassessment of the working of the Commercial Court in an effort to determine what steps ought to be taken to make it more efficient.” Editor, I agree with the calls for the necessity of an efficient Commercial Court. Foreign investors will be hesitant to invest in a country where commercial disputes are not resolved speedily. Our economy could suffer if the issues relating to this court are not addressed by the authorities. The Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General and the Justice Education Society need to take note of this as well. E. Walker
DEAR EDITOR, The International Day of Peace, sometimes unofficially known as World Peace Day, is observed annually on 21 September. It is dedicated to world peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. The day was first celebrated in 1982, and is kept by many nations, including political and military groups. In 2013, for the first time, the Day was dedicated by the SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations to peace education, the key preventive means to reduce war sustainably. To inaugurate the day, the United Nations Peace Bell is rung at UN Headquarters in New York City. The bell is cast from coins donated by children from all continents except Africa, and was a gift from the United Nations Association of Japan, as “a reminder of the human cost of war”; the inscription on its side reads, “Long live absolute world peace”. I believe it must be stated that the pursuit for total and complete peace is indeed very ambitious. Ambitious because we live in a world with people of varying beliefs and strong convictions that are rooted in the DNA of their philosophical thoughts that give directions to their actions—actions that at times may bring about violence that ultimately threatens peace either in the home, community, country or among nations. This quest for absolute peace however, is one that citizens of the world must never relent in pursuing. It was Nelson Mandela who once said and I quote ‘No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.’ This quotation is one in which I endeavour to premise my presentation. Guyana, our beautiful country is very unique in many ways and its uniqueness is one I would like to categorize as a blessing. We are a nation that is blessed with six peoples of different beliefs, culture, customs and practices all blended together to form a unique people we call Guyanese. It is our differences that make us an exclusive and exceptional grouping of people in the Caribbean region, in South America and I dare to say the rest of the
world. These differences should not divide us but rather unite us like different pieces of a puzzle coming together to form a beautiful picture of one people, in one nation with one destiny. The quest to achieve this peace, which coincides with the theme for international Day of Peace 2015 “Partnerships for Peace Dignity for All” is one that requires the genuine involvement of all stakeholders, in all sectors of Guyana. For far too long we have allowed the political players of the land to hoodwink and bamboozled us like our colonial masters into believing that some of us are better and more special than the other. It is this belief some of us fall victims to, that continues to divide us even today. Our political actors have read and learn the script of our colonial masters so well, that it has now become their play book and they use it so skilfully that they have succeeded in spewing “race hate” and division among Guyanese brothers, sisters and their children. How long will Guyanese allow themselves to fall prey to this “divide and rule” play? When will we realise we need each other to coexist in this society? When will we come to the realisation that for Guyana to reach its developmental apex, all Guyanese people have to play its part? It is in this regard I am of the firm conviction that our religious, political, civic, business, NGOs, but most importantly the education sector, must take the lead in
creating an environment of peace and social cohesion. If Guyana is to become a safe and peaceful community where its citizens and businesses can strive, then the business of education in our nation must have a different approach. The role of education is one in which we must have, as his Excellency David Granger posits, an “Education Nation”. Education as it is must surpass its primary role and function of teaching our children how to read, write and count. Education in our country, that is so diverse in our people, culture, religion and moreover our way of life, must play a more significant and pivotal role in leading the path towards building a culture of peace among all our citizens. Education must inculcate mutual respect and tolerance for others in our communities, townships, regions and all of Guyana where our citizens exist irrespective of our differences. It must be used as a tool to help create a more just, peaceful and inclusive society for us as Guyanese to live. Education of peace must be the process of acquiring values, knowledge and develop attitudes, skills and behaviours to live in a harmony with oneself, with others and the natural environment where we all exist. One Love, Salaam Alaikum, Shalom, Shanti, One Love Happy belated International Day of Peace to all. Jermaine Figueira
Police must develop more skills to disarm hostile or potentially dangerous persons DEAR EDITOR, The killing of Police Constable Antonio Dawson is a sad and sorry story. I know both the assailant and the police. The latter worked with my detail while a member of the City Police before enlisting in the Guyana Police Force. His killer, better known as ‘Buxton’, was recently released from the Psychiatric Ward of the hospital. We read about Antonio’s brother, also a policeman being convicted for the shooting of a man in ‘Globe Yard’, some two years ago. Some feel that with the memory of the trauma of his brother being hauled before the court, Antonio and his buddies may have been reluctant to use effective force. Last week I called on the Chief Constable and asked him to ensure that all ranks are better trained. I suggest this route to the Commissioner of Police and Minister of National Security, Honourable Khemraj Ramjattan. Our law Officers should know these strange mentally challenged persons by sight. Second, we must develop among our law Officers, the skill to protect themselves and how to disarm hostile or potentially dangerous persons. We cannot afford to lose our young people. It is not for me to go into any detail suffice to state that a better programme of intensive training will save lives on both sides of the divide. My condolences to the Dawson’s family and the police force fraternity. Hamilton Green
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Page 32
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Trinidad Commonwealth secretary general nominee withdraws
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Dr Bhoendradatt Tewarie, the newly elected member of parliament for Caroni Central in Trinidad, has formally withdrawn his candidacy as Trinidad and Tobago’s nominee for the post of Commonwealth secretary general. He made this known, curiously, by writing last week to the secretary-general of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat rather than the Commonwealth Secretariat. In fact, the CARICOM Secretariat itself has no locus standi in the matter, since its membership is made up of countries of which only some are also members of the Commonwealth. “This letter is to withdraw my name from consideration
for the support of CARICOM heads for the post of secretary general of the Commonwealth. I shall be grateful if you would inform CARICOM heads of same,” Tewarie said in his letter. He explained that, as a member of parliament, he must meet his obligations in Trinidad and Tobago in that capacity. Tewarie’s withdrawal was not unexpected and had been reported by regional media some months ago, although, when asked by Caribbean News Now to confirm or deny such reports in July, he declined to comment, while at the same time seeming, at best, ambivalent about his continued nomination. Following the September 7 general elections in Trinidad
and Tobago, Caribbean News Now contributor, Melanius Alphonse, also noted that Tewarie’s standing for parliament indicated in itself an absence of any real commitment to the Commonwealth. He noted that, in any event, following the assumption of office of Trinidad and Tobago’s new Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, it seemed to be a foregone conclusion that Tewarie’s nomination would not survive the change in government. In March, then opposition leader Rowley urged his predecessor Kamla Persad-Bissessar to withdraw her nomination of Tewarie and instead to ba c k Caribbean academic/ diplomat, Sir Ronald Sanders, who has the support of at least nine nations in the Commonwealth Caribbean. He said Tewarie’s nomination had no chance of going forward, and so Trinidad and Tobago should instead back Sanders, “a quintessential Caribbean man”. Rowley repeated his position last month when he said a People’s National Movement (PNM) government would back Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s nominee.
Trinidad Guardian National Security Minister retired Major General Edmund Dillon said that there should be no politicising of crime as he responded to claims by former health minister Dr Fuad Khan that the People’s National Movement is to be blamed for the number of murders since election. Khan, the Member of Parliament for San Juan/ Barataria said in a statement on Sunday: “This escalation of crime and murders affects communities and individuals in a manner in which they feel that they can no longer trust the police to protect them, which creates vigilantism and increased violence when people decide to fight back. “This PNM needs to assume the responsibility of their office and immediately implement measures to decrease the murder rate before it reaches a point where it can no longer be contained. Because asking the nation to “Let’s do this together” does not work if the Government isn’t doing anything at all.” Asked about the
statement Tuesday following a meeting of the heads of the various national security agencies at the Ministry of National Security, Dillon said: “We cannot politicize crime, we must take a methodological approach in dealing with the issues of crime and that’s the approach that we want and I am taking.” Asked what, if anything, will be done to curb the escalating murder rate, Dillon said that was an integral part of the discussions of the agency heads, including Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Kenrick Maharaj and acting Commissioner of Police (CoP), Stephen Williams. Asked what if any changes will be made to the existing national security layout, Dillon said he was unable to say now as the national security heads have to review all that they have and move from there and Tuesday’s meeting was assessing that. Dillon said that the ministry will use the recently received Coast Guard vessels to protect the borders. When asked about offshore patrol vessels, Dillon
said the need for such equipment will always arise but the security services will use what is available for now. “The Commissioner of Police continues to do the gun-retrieval programme. It must be a collaborative approach because not only do we need these guns off the streets, we need to focus on how do the guns get in the country, and how can we prevent them from getting here,” Dillon said, adding that all will be done to weed out the rogue police officers in the process. He added: “As we continue to deal with the strategic ideas, we have to understand the reality on the ground is what confronts us. The CoP and the CDS will work on the operational aspects. In fact as we speak there are operational aspects in play now. From since early yesterday morning dealing with the crime situation so there are simultaneous approaches. We cannot deal with strategic things without an understanding of the reality on the ground.
Dr Bhoendradatt Tewarie
Dillion: no politicising of crime
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Water taxi service begins to bite ...Bridge Company begs for meeting with NIS
Striking minibuses As the Government of Guyana pushes ahead with its stated objective of making life better for all Guyanese, the introduction on Monday of the water taxi service across the Berbice River has started to bite. The Number 56 route minibus operators who operate the Rosignol to New Amsterdam route across the Berbice River Bridge took strike action on Tuesday and the Berbice Bridge Company (BBCI) began calling for a meeting with The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to discuss the lowering of the bridge toll. The minibus operators stated that they were already finding it extremely difficult to make ends meet due to the high cost to cross the bridge. Now with the introduction of the water taxi service and the free crossing for students, nurses and pensioners it is even more difficult. On Tuesday, they staged a protest in the vicinity of the Berbice River Bridge at D’Edward demanding that someone looks into their plight. There are 49 buses that operate the route and according to the owners they were already not being able to work every day, with 14 being off each day limiting them to five days work during the week. Too many buses are on the route. The buses would sometimes make two trips per day, especially on Mondays. However, on Monday they were reduced to one trip for the day with some not being able to make any as the commuter decided to take advantage of the cheaper and faster water taxi service provided by the MV Nicholas and MV Shanit across the Berbice River.
The minibus operators said that it is no longer profitable. If the BBCI does not reduce the fare or the water taxis do not stop working then many of us will starve. One official of the minibus association stated that before the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) used the pontoon service which operated in the morning and afternoons only. However the water taxis are working whole day and carrying the people free, so who will travel with the bus. Persons are required to pay $120 to cross. The government has also agreed to pay the operators $1,500 per trip. The operators are calling on the government and the BBCI to come to some compromise as quickly as possible so that everybody could get to live. “The bridge company should come clean and state the true position with the bridge. They cannot play selfish and greedy and allow us to starve.” They operators stated that what is happening is hampering their chances of earning a full day’s pay. They feel that the government and those who are involved should come to a quick arrangement. One driver is asking why put systems in place for only children who are crossing the river and not those who have to travel down the coast. He stated that he has 11 children, seven of whom are attending school and he has to fend for them. He is working someone’s bus and is already struggling to make ends meet. He is wondering how he is going to make out now that they are hardly getting work with the
introduction of the water taxis. By Tuesday the water taxis service had begun to bed in, with more commuters utilizing the service for the entire day. On Monday the two taxis only did good business in the morning and afternoon hours. On Tuesday business was bright for most of the day. The boats which begin operation at 06:00 hrs and continue until 18:00 hrs operate on a touch- and-go basis and had by 14:00 hours, completed 16 trips. The government was forced to introduce the water taxis across the Berbice River after the hardline stance taken by the BBCI in refusing to reduce the toll to cross the Berbice River Bridge by the $300 which was announced by the Government, even though it had agreed to subsidize the cost. By Tuesday afternoon there were indications that there were more water taxis that were ready to take the river with the arrival of a third boat on a truck.
Page 33
Speeding minibus kills motorcyclist The police are investigating an accident that occurred about 23:50 hrs on Monday on the Albion Public Road, Corentyne, that resulted in the death of a motorcyclist. Dead is Devon Deene, 23, of Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Berbice, who worked as a feeler table operator at the Albion Estate sugar factory. Deene was riding his motor cycle along the Albion Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, heading home from the Berbice-Expo when the accident occurred. Police investigations revealed that Devon Deene allegedly collided with a minibus that he was attempting to overtake. He sustained injuries to his head and face and was taken to the GPHC where he succumbed yesterday morning. Eyewitnesses report that Deane was riding his motorcycle west along the Albion Public Road. Minibus PHH 3410, driven by Goberdhan Seeratan, 32, of No 1 Village, Corentyne was heading in the same direction. They said the accident occurred when Seeratan
attempted to turn north into a nearby street with his direction indicator on. . Deene reportedly attempted to overtake the bus before it turned into the street and his motorcycle reportedly hit the right side of the bus. He skidded a few feet away before slamming head-on to a utility pole. The eyewitness stated that the bus driver immediately ran to the Albion Police Station located a few houses away to report what had happened, and then he rushed back to the scene. Medical reports indicate that Deene was apparently not wearing a helmet and sustained injuries to the head and face. However, when contacted, Kevon Deene said his brother had just left the Berbice Expo when at Albion, just after the police station in front of the orphanage, he was hit by a speeding minibus. “The bus was speeding and the driver was drunk when the police tested him with the breathalyzer,” Kevon reported. The brother also reported, “After Devon was
hit the driver reportedly refused to take him to the hospital, but an angry mob forced him to transport my brother to the Port Mourant hospital for treatment.” However, because of the severity of the injuries to his head he was referred to the New Amsterdam hospital, but the ambulance at Port Mourant had battery problems. “The driver at Port Mourant couldn’t get the ambulance started so he made his exit while me brother was still alive. We then had to contact the Guysuco ambulance and they came and take my brother to the New Amsterdam hospital,” Kevon recalled. Nothing much could’ve been done at that hospital, and the critically injured man was further referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he died. He was one of four children for Colleen Williams and was described by relatives as cool and jovial. The driver of the minibus is in police custody assisting with the investigations. (Mondale Smith)
On Friday, President David Granger travelled to the town of Linden to communicate his government’s gratitude for the immense support received from the community in the 2015 polls. He reassured them of his government’s dedication to the further development of the Mining community. The ‘walkabout’ by President Granger was well
received by Lindeners. It saw throngs of excited residents trying to get a closer look at the peoples’ president as it was his first visit to the community since he took office. Mr. Granger admitted that the town of Linden has many problems, one of which is the high unemployment rate
amongst youths. He pledged that his administration would tackle the problem of youth unemployment in the region. He promised to return to the Mining community in October to sit down with the people of Linden to find solutions to the community’s various problems.
President Granger to address unemployment in Linden
Page 34
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Venezuela and Colombia to normalise ties after border row
President Nicolas Maduro (left) and President Santos (right) have agreed to “normalise ties” President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela and his Colombian counterpart, Juan Manuel Santos, have agreed to “a progressive normalisation” of their common border. Venezuela closed parts of the border a month ago and launched a major antismuggling operation. Mr Maduro says up to 40% of Venezuelan goods are smuggled out of the country. Meeting in Ecuador, the two presidents also said they would return ambassadors to each other ’s capitals immediately. “Common sense, dialogue and peace between our peoples and our countries have triumphed today,” said Mr Maduro after the talks in Quito aimed at defusing the crisis. The Venezuelan leader
ordered the closure on 19 August after three Venezuelan soldiers and a civilian were injured in an attack in San Antonio del Tachira near the border. He has since extended the measure to a total of three border states. The closure was first imposed for 36 hours but has since been prolonged indefinitely. The two sides on Monday agreed to a “normalisation” but did not set a date for a re-opening of the border. Government officials from both sides are due to meet today to work on the details of the “normalisation plan”. More than 1,500 Colombians living illegally in Venezuela were also evicted as part of the anti-smuggling operation.
Another 20,000 are estimated to have left fearing deportation. Some said they had been mistreated by the Venezuelan security forces, prompting Colombia to recall its ambassador from Caracas in protest. Venezuela later recalled its ambassador from Bogota. President Santos said on Monday that Venezuela “should have respected the rights of Colombians” that were forced out. The 2,200km-long border (1,400 miles) between the two countries is p o r o u s a n d there has historically been a steady flow of people both ways. It is a haven for smugglers and criminal gangs, as well as Colombia’s left-wing guerrilla groups, who often extort local residents. (BBC News)
Portia going after child abusers KINGSTON – Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller used the platform of the People’s National Party’s (PNP) 77th annual conference to tout an agenda of progress and prosperity, while saying very little on the issue of crime which many were expecting her to address. On the issue of crime, which the Opposition last week insisted that the prime minister address at the conference, Simpson Miller said the Government is improving the operational capabilities of the security forces, and highlighted the passage of several pieces of legislation aimed at boosting crime-fighting, as well as the refurbishing of court facilities across a number of towns. A passionate Simpson Miller also reminded party supporters inside the National Arena in Kingston that stricter laws are coming for
those found guilty of rape and carnal abuse, and also parents who neglect their children. But, for the most part, the party president’s speech focused on the Government’s achievement to include efforts to improve social security, through a $5.5-billion expenditure on social programmes, an additional $600 million for pensioners, and increases in grants to students under the Programme of Advancement through Health and Education. She also pointed to additional expenditure in the health and education sectors, as well as improved infrastructure across vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, Simpson Miller chided the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) for its harsh criticisms of the Government’s policies and programmes, pointing out that
up to September 2007, when the JLP took over, the economy was growing. “The number of persons below the poverty line was less than 10 per cent...the unemployment rate was 9.6 per cent, the lowest in our history. Jamaica had eight consecutive quarters of positive economic growth up to 2007. Jamaica enjoyed good relationships with the multilateral agencies. Jamaica was headed in the right direction,” she told the mass of chanting, dancing, vuvuzela-blowing supporters. The prime minister charged that when the JLP left office at the end of 2011, however, “the economy was in shambles”, although partially because of the global economic crisis, “but mainly because of poor management”. (Jamaica Observer)
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Plenty at stake in seasonending Tour Championship It is a numbers game at this week’s Tour Championship, with numerals one, three, five and 10 dominating conversation at East Lake Golf Club. The Sept. 24-27 Tour Championship brings together the top 30 players on the FedExCup points list, but besides the nearly $1.5 million first prize on offer in this fourth and last event of the playoffs, there is much more at stake. The number one ranking in golf, which now belongs to red-hot Australian Jason Day, is yet again up for grabs. Day, winner of four of his last six events and five overall in 2015, ascended to that coveted perch atop world golf with his spectacular win at last week’s BMW Championship, where he blew away the field. But the title of golf number one has been passed around like a hot potato between the Big Three of four-times major winner Rory
McIlroy, Masters and U.S. Open winner Jordan Spieth and PGA Championship winner Day in recent weeks and this event could settle the issue for the rest of 2015. Meanwhile, the top five players in the FedExCup list Day, Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Henrik Stenson and Bubba Watson - can clinch the playoffs title and $10 million bonus should they win the elite Tour Championship event, which begins tomorrow. Besides those significant numbers, there is also the Player of the Year award at stake in a season where Day’s extraordinary finish has set up a duel with Spieth for the coveted award voted on by their PGA Tour peers. “Of course it’s between Jason and Jordan and someone with the first letter of a ‘J’ will win it,” 2013 FedExCup winner Stenson told reporters yesterday. “I would still wait until this week is over before I would put my
final vote on that. I think it comes down to what happens this week.” Players Championship and Deutsche Bank Championship winner Fowler, who like Day (27), Spieth (22) and McIlroy (26) is a member of the emerging under-30 set, agrees it is a two-man race for Player of the Year. “We have a tough decision between the two of those guys,” 26-year-old Fowler said yeseterday. Stenson, who is without a tournament victory this year, would claim the $10 million prize with a win or by finishing second or third if the other leading contenders finish down the list at East Lake. “There’s no one that’s playing great and is sky high on confidence and no one with a bunch of majors and no one hits it 330 off the tee, so it shouldn’t be that hard,” Stenson joked, in pointed reference to Day, Spieth and McIlroy. (Reuters)
Wednesday September 23, 2015 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) A lack of support and negativity have been the main problems. Those you work with may have little consideration for the underdog. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Wait and get all the information before consulting your boss. Make sure any presentation you have is ready. Don't count your chickens before they hatch. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You would be wise to socialize with as many people as possible. Avoid purchasing expensive items. CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Take the time to sort out your personal papers and double-check your financial investments. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You can get ready to celebrate your new direction. You'll find it easy to deal with government agencies or large institutions. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Residential moves will be favorable, and larger quarters the most probable direction. You will profit from home improvement projects and real estate deals. Concentrate on work.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Look into career choices and courses being offered. Try to join groups of interest such as ballroom dance classes or perhaps an internet organization. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Be aware that a female you work with may be trying to hold you back. You will find that money could slip through your fingers. SAGIT. (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Keep your feet on the ground, if you can. You may as well work on projects that will allow you to make progress. CAPRI. (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) This is a great day to start that new health regimen you've been talking about. Be quiet about your intentions or ideas that might bring added cash. AQUAR. (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) You may be experiencing emotional turmoil in regard to your mate. Changes regarding your career direction will payoff handsomely. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Speak of your future goals, intentions, and commitments. You may find yourself in the midst of a pretty good deal.
Page 35
Lewandowski hits five to write Bundesliga history Robert Lewandowski wrote Bundesliga history and sent records tumbling by scoring five goals in just nine minutes in Bayern Munich’s 5-1 win at home to Wolfsburg. Bayern were 1-0 down at the break thanks to a goal by Wolfsburg winger Daniel Caligiuri when coach Pep Guardiola opted to swap midfielder Thiago Alcantara for Lewandowski. It proved to be an inspired move which saw Bayern go top of the table from Borussia Dortmund, who are at Hoffenheim today. The Poland striker scored just six minutes later to start his record-breaking haul as he demolished the Wolfsburg defence in a dazzling display. “I am very happy, that was crazy,” beamed Lewandowski. “We were 1-0 down when I came on and I knew we had to give some gas, but it’s unbelievable to get five goals.” It was his best haul since scoring all four for ex-club Borussia Dortmund in their 4-1 win over Real Madrid in the 2013 UEFA Champions League semifinal. “To score four goals in a Champions League semi-final was very important and a big story in my career, but to score five goals means this is another big evening for me,” he added. The 27-year-old set the record for the fastest hattrick, as he needed just three minutes, 19 seconds to hit his first three goals. His five minutes, 42 seconds for the fourth goal was also a Bundesliga record, as was his nine minutes for
Mobile Wizards T10 set to start Sunday From page 38 Wizards will be at the grounds to showcase their phones and services to the public. The company has already indicated that the public will be recipients of some giveaways. The people of West Demerara are urged to take advantage of this opportunity at the matches in their respective areas. The atmosphere will be family oriented and there will be a noticeable police presence. Teams still wishing to be part of the competition can contact the following persons to uplift registration forms: Selena Azeez 646-0568, 2682458; Amiel Azeez 629-0844; Asif Azeez 657-2220; Ravendra Ramgobin 276-1381, 693-2429; Mobile Wizards (Parika) 260-4967, 655-0767. Completed forms can be handed to the aforementioned persons and also at Wolf ’s Furniture Store, Leonora.
the fifth. It was the first time five goals have been scored by one player in the Bundesliga since Michael Toennies in August 1991 in a 6-2 win for Duisburg against Karlsruhe. His haul was the first time a player has come off the bench to score five goals in a Bundesliga game. Lewandowski fell just short of matching the record goal-haul for a single Bundesliga match of six achieved by Cologne’s Dieter Muller in their 7-2 win over Werder Bremen in August 1977. A superb goal from right winger Caligiuri gave Wolfsburg the lead on 26 minutes when he drilled his shot inside the near post and past Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer after cutting in from the wing. Bayern were dealt an almighty scare and were only saved by the post on 39 minutes. Neuer left his area, but misjudged a clearance near the halfway line and France midfielder Josuha Guilavogui
launched a 50 metre shot at the empty goal, but Munich’s blushes were spared as it span harmlessly off the left post. The game then changed in dramatic fashion when Lewandowski came off the bench and scored his first when he stabbed the ball home on 51 minutes. The second followed just seconds later when Xabi Alonso, who looked suspiciously offside, headed forward and Lewandowski buried his shot inside the left post with a superb shot. He claimed his hat-trick on 55 minutes when his shot gave Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio no chance before he saved the best two goals until last. On 57 minutes, Lewandowski converted Douglas Costa’s cross with a volley at point-blank range, then produced a superb turning volley to claim his fifth on 60 minutes and came within a whisker of his sixth just moments later. It was little surprise that he was named man of the match. (FIFA)
Page 36
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Rugby World Cup 2015 Fifa will discuss December executive meeting venue change South Africa inspired by Spain footballers
Sepp Blatter FIFA will discuss on Friday a possible new venue and date for December’s executive committee meeting which was originally scheduled for Japan. Seven of the governing body’s officials were arrested in Zurich on 27 May on corruption charges by United States authorities and face
extradition. FIFA President Sepp Blatter is not among those who have been indicted. But the 79-year-old would be more vulnerable to an extradition request if he left his native Switzerland. He would have protection from extradition from his homeland because Article 7 of
IMAC (the governing Swiss law) prohibits the extradition of Swiss nationals. Since the corruption charges Blatter’s only official trip abroad has been to Russia for the World Cup qualifying draw in St Petersburg in late July. A FIFA spokeswoman confirmed the venue change was under discussion but gave no reason for its debate. Blatter won a fifth consecutive FIFA presidential election on 29 May but following claims of corruption announced his decision to step down on 2 June. He will leave the role at a FIFA extraordinary congress on 26 February. The agenda for the congress will be approved b y B l a t t e r ’s e x e c u t i v e panel in a two-day meeting in Zurich later this week. (BBCsport)
South Africa Rugby Team South Africa hooker Bismarck du Plessis says his team have been drawing solace from Spain’s 2010 triumph at football’s World Cup after their own openingmatch defeat against Japan on Saturday. Spain lost to Switzerland in their first group game but triumphed in the final 25 days later to lift the trophy. “We can see it’s been done and we want to hang on to that hope and give hope for our nation,” said Du Plessis, 31. He added that finalists at
the last two Rugby World Cups had also lost ma t c h e s . England were defeated 36-0 by South Africa in Pool A at the 2007 tournament, before France lost to both New Zealand and Tonga in the group stages in 2011 but advanced and were only just edged out in the final by the All Blacks. South Africa face Samoa on Saturday in their second group game and Du Plessis added that, after coach Heyneke Meyer’s apology to
their nation, the squad were now concentrating on ensuring their place in the knock-out stages. “The loss to Japan is now in the past and we can only change the future,” he added. “We have to trust our own process, trust what the coach wants us to do.” After their encounter with Samoa, the Springboks play Scotland on 3 October and the United States on 7 October in their final two matches in Pool B. (BBCsport)
Cristiano Ronaldo invites Syrian Refugee Tripped by Camerawoman onto Field
The Almohsen family, refugees from Syria, received a personal invitation to a Real Madrid game from the team’s president, Florentino Pérez. Uosama Alabed Almohsen, the father of Zied and Mohammad, made headlines earlier this fall when he was tripped by a Hungarian camerawoman while fleeing Syria across the HungarySerbia border. Almohsen was holding his son, Zied, who is seen crying in photographs. The camerawoman was fired for tripping the refugees. She later apologized, saying something ‘snapped’ inside of her. The Almohsen boys are big fans of Real Madrid and received a tour of the stadium, trophy room and pitch from team executives. “In Syria we dreamed of seeing a Real Madrid match, and now that’s going to come true. I’m really happy,” Almohsen said. To make the event even more unforgettable, Zied got to walk onto the pitch with soccer superstar Cristiano
Cristiano Ronaldo Invites Syrian Refugee Tripped By Camera woman Onto Field. Ronaldo. Ronaldo wore a Tshirt with the slogan, “Professional football stands with the refugees.” Real Madrid has been a
strong supporter of refugees taken in by Spain. In early September, the team donated one million euros to the cause. (Newsweek)
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 37
Zico says FIFA elections Bartica, Essequibo adopt outdated, lack legitimacy new constitution
GFF’s Richard Groden (2nd right, back row) and Deidre Davis (left front) with representatives of the clubs in Bartica following the meeting. Former Brazil soccer player Zico speaks during a news conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, June 10, 2015. Reuters/Pilar Olivares FIFA presidential candidate Zico believes that the rules for electing the head of soccer’s governing body are unfair, outdated and subject voting federations to outside pressure. The Brazilian, who played at three World Cups and is regarded as one of the finest footballers ever to have graced the sport, was also disappointed that the current generation of players were afraid to speak their minds on important soccer issues. Speaking to Reuters on a tram taking him to FIFA headquarters to meet President Sepp Blatter, Zico said it was wrong that candidates had to have written backing from five national football associations. He said that the rules led to national FAs being subjected to pressure from the continental confederations who often wanted their members to vote as a block. “I knew about this and the difficulties other candidates went through but you always have to try in life,” he said during a 20-minute journey on the number six. “I have been involved in football for 45 years and there are other professionals like myself who have missed out on being candidates because of this five association rule. “The (continental) confederations stick their noses in and put pressure on the national FAs who don’t have the independence to make their choices.” Asked if he sensed that national FAs feared reprisals for backing a candidate, he said: “I have had similar thoughts. The FAs should have their freedom and
independence.” Zico, who has said from the outset that he would struggle to get sufficient backing, was also baffled as to why the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) had decided to back Frenchman Michel Platini as their candidate. Zico is one of a number of candidates who have put themselves forward to replace Blatter, who announced shortly after being re-elected in May that he would lay down his mandate on Feb. 26. World soccer’s governing body was thrown into turmoil in May when 14 sports marketing executives and soccer officials, including several from FIFA, were indicted in the United States on bribery, money laundering and wire fraud charges. Candidates must submit their bids four months before the election, together with the backing of five FAs. Since ending his playing career with Japan’s Kashima Antlers in 1994, Zico has coached the national sides of Japan and Iraq, as well as club sides in Turkey, Greece, Russia, Uzbekistan and Qatar. He is currently in charge of Indian Super League side FC Goa. He repeated his proposal that the players, coaches, supporters and the media should vote in the FIFA presidential election. “The election in its current form is completely outdated; the whole world of football needs to take part,” he said. “When we vote for the Player of the Year, the coaches, players, captains, the media and fans take part so why not do this for
president (of FIFA). At the moment, there is no debate and the elections are increasingly lacking in legitimacy.” Even as a player, Zico was often an outspoken critic of soccer officials, something he thinks contemporary players would not dare to do. “I would love players to speak up, but a top player is involved in so many things, so many contracts that the lad can’t open his mouth,” he said. “I’ve always had the independence to say what I think, I feel, I never worried about my image and nobody ever told me what to say,” he added. “I took part in trade unions, on committees in Brazil, I was Minister of Sport in Brazil, on World Cup committees. I’ve had always my freedom of expression.” He added: “I could be more comfortable and relaxed in Japan after doing a great job there, but I like challenges, and they keep coming up.”(Reuters)
The Bartica and Essequibo Football Associations recently met and adopted new constitutions which will now pave the way for elections to be held in the Region 7 and 2 locations on October 17 and 18 respectively. Guyana Football Federation (GFF) General Secretary Richard Groden along with his assistant Deidre Davis, journeyed to both areas where they first met with club representatives at the Xenon Hotel in Charity, Essequibo.
Present were Henrietta United, Queenstown, Wakapoa United, Super Eleven FC, Devonshire Castle FC and Charity X-treme Club. Their AGM has been set for October 17 at the Oasis Hotel, Queenstown. The meeting was chaired by Groden, who informed the representatives of its purpose; he also guided the constitution adoption process whilst also sharing the timelines for electing a new executive. In Bartica at the St. John’s
The Baptiste Primary School, Lazio FC, Rivers’ View FC, Beacons FC, Wolves United and Mil Balls were the clubs represented; absent were Potaro Strikers and Rising Star football clubs. After the constitution review process was completed, the clubs voted in favour of adopting the new document and agreed that their AGM will take place on October 18 in the Boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council.
Page 38
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Club Licensing embraced in Barbados
Participants to the Club Licensing workshop conducted by CONCACAF and FIFA in Barbados gather for a group photo.
Bridgetown, Barbados – An attractive aspect of the CONCACAF Club Licensing program is its capacity to strengthen leagues/national associations of all sizes, structures and formats. That feature was fully evident on September 12, when CONCACAF and FIFA conducted a workshop in conjunction with the Barbados Football Association (BFA), informing local men’s and women’s football clubs of the developmental approach to the new Club Licensing system. The Barbados Domestic Club Licensing system, in its inaugural year, will apply to all Premier League, Women’s League, First, Second and Third Division football clubs. The leagues in Barbados
launch annually in January, meaning it is essential that all clubs be licensed by the end of 2015 to ensure their participation. Compliance with the new system is key as required documentation must be submitted by the November 2, 2015, deadline. This will allow ample time for the BFA’s Club Licensing administration to analyze all presented documentation and, subsequently, take a decision on whether to award or deny licenses through the First Instance Body on November 27, 2015. In addition to other minimum requirements, clubs will be obliged to complete four online forms, submit a budget for the upcoming season, appoint at least one individual to the roles of
General Manager, Finance Officer, Marketing Officer and Media Officer, as well as submit their statutes. In order to establish and act as the licensor of the new system in Barbados, the BFA has finalized its Club Licensing Regulations and Support Manual and appointed a First Instance Body, an Appeals Body and a Club Licensing manager. The overall vision of CONCACAF’s Club Licensing system is to improve the quality of all men’s and women’s clubs that participate in sanctioned football, futsal and beach soccer leagues through the implementation of 41 unique Club Licensing systems in partnership with each one of our Member Associations. (CONCACAF)
Barbados Pride name 15 man 4-Day squad
Barbados Pride cricket team Bridgetown, Barbados The Cricket Franchise of Barbados selectors chose a fifteen-man squad to represent the Barbados Pride team in preparation for the 2015/16 WICB Professional Cricket League Regional 4Day Tournament which will be played between Nov 2nd, 2015 and March 21st, 2016 in various Caribbean countries. The squad commenced training from August 5th at Kensington Oval and sessions are held daily from 9.30 a.m.-12.30 p.m. They have already completed all their fitness, medical and eye tests and are currently involved in training sessions and lectures both of which are held at Kensington Oval and beach recovery at Brandons beach. The original Barbados Pride Franchise squad is: Carlos Brathwaite, Shamarh Brooks, Jonathan Carter, Roston Chase, Kyle Corbin, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Justin Greaves, Shai Hope, Preston McSween (Grenada, Windward Islands), Ashley Nurse,
Omar Phillips, Kevin Stoute, Hayden Walsh Jr (Antigua, Leeward Islands), Jomel Warrican. Subsequent to the naming of the squad Messrs. Carlos Brathwaite, Shane Dowrich, Shai Hope and Jomel Warrican have been selected to the West Indies squad for its tour to Sri Lanka. As a consequence, an additional ten (10) cricketers were selected to compliment the training squad and they commenced training on Aug 31st. The additional selected
are: Rashidi Boucher, Antonio Greenidge, Chaim Holder, Trevor Ifill, Jerome Jones, Carlos Maynard, Mario Rampersaud, Dario Seale, Michael Sobers, Kenroy Williams. The squad will play in approximately three (3) trial matches prior to the start of their first 4-day game to be held in Barbados from November 6th - 9th at Kensington Oval. The first game will be played from September 29th to October 1st, 2015 commencing at 10.00 a.m. each day. (BCA)
Fruta Conquerors FC to host constitutional reform meeting on Friday Registered members, players and former players of the Fruta Conquerors Football Club (FCFC) are being invited to Constitutional Reform Meeting by the Executive Committee of the club that will take place this Friday at their Club House, Takuba Road, Tucville. A release from the club states that the meeting is in keeping with the directives of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) with regards to each affiliate adopting new constitutions. The meeting on Friday will commence at 17:00hrs.
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
RHTY&SC teams host activities for Rose Hall Town residents The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club cricket teams continue to observe the club’s Silver Jubilee activities and the Township’s 45th anniversary by hosting several programmes for the residents of Rose Hall Town and surrounding environs. Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Female and Gizmos and Gadgets Under-21 and First Division, organised three major events over the past weekend. These included a public exhibition on the history and development of the club and township, a free medical outreach programme for the residents in conjunction with the New Amsterdam Public Hospital and an evening of music featuring the steel band and musical band of the Guyana Defense Force. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that with the completion of the three projects, the club has successfully attained 185 of its projected target of 200 for the Silver Jubilee. The public exhibition, the first of its kind to be held in Rose Hall Town featured trophies and awards won by club and ten huge banners showcasing the
history of the Town, profile of Rose Hall Village, Mayors and Town clerks 1970-2015, names of the 57 slaves who bought the plantation of Rose Hall in 1842, outstanding citizens produced by the Town, places of interest in the township and a pictorial review of the village and township over the period 1940-2015. The club also launched a leaflet on the township which was distributed free to the residents who visited the booth. Among the residents featured at the exhibition were the late Clarence Hughes S.C, Test player Assad Fudadin and Andre Percival, youth leader Alex Foster, businessman Imran Hamid, Director of Protocol Vic Persaud and Assistant Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine. The Medical Outreach programme was coordinated by the cricket teams with the new CEO of the New Amsterdam Public Hospital Colin Bynoe and Medical Supt. Dr. Sharma. Dozens of residents visited the JC Chandisingh Secondary School on Sunday last to be treated for a wide range of illness and received supplies of needed medicine. The Hospital also used the opportunity to collect blood from residents as part of its blood drive. A large
crowd of residents also turned out at the Arch Square on Sunday evening to be part of a musical Evening. They were richly entertained by the Guyana Defense Force Band under the command of Major Burns for over three hours. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster praised the cricketers and club execution of the projects and for working beyond the call of duty to ensure its success. Foster also expressed gratitude to several donors who contributed especially Republic Bank, Scotia Bank, Bobby’s Boutique, Imran and Son and Guyana Beverage Company among others. The main aims of the RHYT&SC cricketers personal development programme are: to made sure that all members fully understand their roles as a sports ambassador, to develop skills to properly represent themselves and club and to make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate. West Indies female player and Metro Captain Shemaine Campbelle stated that the teams are proud to be associated with the township of the Rose Hall and the three programme were dedicated to residents as a thank you gesture for the support over the years.
Sir Curtly for Dominica charity match Bridgetown, Barbados – West Indies fast bowling legend Sir Curtly Ambrose is coming out of retirement to turn his arm over in support of a very worthy cause. The icon, who retired from international cricket 15 years ago with 405 Test wickets and 225 in One-Day Internationals, announced his availability for the “Rally Round Dominica” charity match this Saturday. He will line-up for the University of the West Indies Vice Chancellor’s Celebrity XI against West Indies Cricket Board President’s Celebrity XI, which begins at 7 pm (6 pm Jamaica Time) at the historic Kensington Oval. “When I retired from cricket, I said I would never play again – any form of cricket,” said Sir Curtly. “I came back to play a few games here and there and now. Now, I have been asked to represent the UWI Vice Chancellor’s Celebrity XI and I immediately agreed to participate in aid of such a worthy cause.” Admission for the event
– jointly hosted by the WICB and UWI – is US$10 for adults and US$5 for children under the age of 12, with all proceeds going directly to the Dominica Government to assist with recovery efforts in the island which suffered severe damage to property and loss of life from the passage of Tropical Storm Erika, and continued to be affected by heavy rainfall in the recent days. “I don’t mind sending down an over of two for such as worthy cause,” said Sir Curtly, who celebrated his 52nd birthday on Monday. “I was very touched when I heard the news and then saw what happened on television. “I knew the storm had passed and then I heard they had a lot of rain, but initially I didn’t realize the devastation. I saw the clippings and it was really a tragedy. We all have to play our part to help rebuild the country, hence the reason why I decided to be part of this fund raising event. “Generally, I am expecting
a very good game and I want to urge all the fans in Barbados to fill the Oval on Saturday night. I also want to encourage those not in Barbados to make donations through other means, so the people of Dominica can get back on their feet as quickly as possible.” Each side is expected to field half-dozen current players from the West Indies team currently preparing for next month’s Tour of Sri Lanka and a number of celebrity players. West Indies legend Brian Lara, former Trinidad & Tobago and Manchester United football star Dwight Yorke and Jamaican Olympic medallist Yohan Blake are among the first celebrities to confirm their availability for the match. New West Indies Women’s captain Stafanie Taylor and teammate Deandra Dottin, as well as UWI Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Hillary Beckles, are also expected to make appearances during the match. (WICB)
Page 39
Guyana NRA / Industrial Safety Supplies Action Pistol Shoot
Gordon Richards (senior) and Jermaine Softly (junior) are top shots The Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) Smallbore section with sponsorship from Industrial Safety Supplies on Sunday last held an Action Pistol competition at the Timehri Range. Senior and junior competitors competed in three stages each of fast paced shooting using a specified amount of rounds within a given time limit. Taking the over top trophy in the senior category when the smoke from the multiple shots disappeared was Gordon Richards who accumulated 190 points
winning ahead of David Dharry who got 184 with Smallbore Captain Dale Hing in third place on 180 points. The junior winner was Jermaine Softly with 150 points; Randy Sarjoo took the runner-up spot (136 points) while Shawn Smith who tallied 127 points placed third. Following are the results from the respective stages among the senior and junior shooters: Senior Category Stage 1 - Lennox Braithwaite, Gordon Richards, David Dharry. Stage 2 - Murtland Smith,
Lawrence Layne, Dale Hing. Stage 3 - Ray Beharry, Gordon Richards, David Dharry. Junior Category Stage 1 - Jermaine Softley, Shawn Smith, Erwin Chapman. Stage 2 - Randy Sarjoo, Jermaine Softly, Surujballi Persaud. Stage 3 - Romesh Latchana, Surujballi Persaud, Jermaine Softly. Meanwhile, the next competition is slated for this Sunday at the same venue when a Practical Shoot will take place.
Page 40
Kaieteur News
Wednesday September 23, 2015
Linden Softball Cricket League T10 GDA team departs for Puerto Rico Int’l tourney competition continues Sunday at Bayroc A 24-member Georgetown Dominoes Association (GDA) team departed yesterday to participate in an international tournament slated to commence in Puerto Rico today. The Guyanese will compete in the King, Queen, Three-Hand and Pairs competitions in the Spanish speaking country. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport prior to their departure at the National Sports Commission office, Homestretch Avenue, President of the GDA Faye Joseph expressed confidence that the team will do well. “We are aware that the
competition will be tough, but our players participated in a number of local tournaments recently so we are ready for the challenge,” she said. Guyana are the favourites to win the male three-hand title since they won this format at the World Championships in Barbados last year but Joseph indicated that they will also be looking to take the other categories. “Our team has a wealth of experience, the players are competent of holding their own at this level something we have done with distinction in previous tournaments,” Joseph added. The team’s Public
Relations Officer Orin Boston expressed gratitude to the National Sports Commission and Ministry of Tourism for their assistance. The team left in two batches. The squad reads; Faye Joseph, John Chance, Althea Chase, Leroy Edwards, Orin Favourite, Sonia Goodluck, Clement Henry, Paul Lewis, Noel Mc Kay, Andrea Mendonca, Parker Carter, Martin Permaul, Rawl Peters, Godfrey Samuels, Errol Seymour, Frank Small, Azeez Richmond, Ken Redmond, James Collins, Colin Mc Ewan, Barbara Marshall, Orin Boston, Colin Boyce and Lyndon Boston.
Member clubs of the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) in keeping with a directive from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Saturday last met and adopted a new constitution at the West Demerara Secondary School Auditorium. Clubs attending the meeting were Pouderoyen, Den Amstel, Golden Warriors formerly Bagotville, Stewartville and Wales. Absent were Eagles, Beavers and Uitvlugt despite being
properly informed. The other WDFA club, Slingerz was not part of the meeting since they are now an Elite Club. According to reports, discussions on the new document went well and the members are satisfied that the sport will grow from strength to strength going forward. The members agreed that October 24 the Annual General Meeting will take place with October 16 being nomination day. The WDFA is imploring
on clubs who have not yet been licensed to ensure that the process is completed in a time.ly manner which would enable them to be a part of deciding on the new executive for the association. The WDFA further informed that only three clubs are licensed under the new CONCACAF led initiative; Wales, Golden Warriors and Den Amstel. The defaulting clubs are Eagles, Pouderoyen, Uitvlugt, Stewartville, Beavers and De Kendren.
An on-field brawl between two Bermuda club cricketers during the country’s Champion of Champions final on September 12 has resulted in one of them being banned for life and the other slapped with a lengthy suspension by the Bermuda Cricket Board. At the end of an over during the game, Cleveland County Cricket Club’s wicketkeeper Jason Anderson, while changing ends, smacked the Willow Cuts Cricket Club’s batsman George O’Brien on the head to spark off a massive fight. O’Brien swung his bat at Anderson, who - after a moment of calm - then rushed
the batsman and pushed him to the ground. Anderson then appeared to aim at kick at O’Brien’s body too, and the pair had to be separated by a large number of players and officials as play was stopped. Anderson was given “a life ban from all cricket, and any involvement in the game of cricket in Bermuda in any capacity” by the BCB, while O’Brien was suspended for a length of time that will include six 50-over matches at the start of the next season. The Cleveland Club imposed more sanctions on Anderson, banning him from representing the club “in all sporting activities for life.”
Cleveland coach Clay Smith wrote in his column for The Royal Gazette that the incident was a new low in Bermuda cricket. “Our standards of discipline have slipped tremendously, and what is deemed acceptable on the field of play is completely unacceptable,” Smith wrote. “Too few players are being written up for what some may deem minor infractions. “There is a solution to this madness, it just requires the Bermuda Cricket Board to implement the code of conduct that players are expected to play under at the ICC international level.” The incident was criticised in Bermuda’s parliament. “What was to be a family and community event, has instead been marred by a repugnant incident of violence, lawlessness and unsportsmanlike conduct,” Shadow Sports Minister Michael Weeks said. (ESPNcricinfo)
Linden Softball Cricket League T10 competition continued on Sunday last at the Bayroc ground with Sunrise, Bad Boys, Hill Foot Vipers and Kairuni being among the winners. In Game one of action last weekend, Kairuni squeezed past Pacesetters by 2 runs. Kairuni amassed 111-4 in 9.4 overs. Sonnel Griffith top scored with 45 (2x4 4x6) and Andy Daniels 24. Shawn Adams and Andel Mendonca took one wicket each for Pacesetters who in response
Top scorer Romona Stellingburg made 36 and Basmattie Randeo 16. Allison Duncan bagged 2-19 in 2 overs. All Star Conquerors could only manage 105-2 in 10 overs. Charlene Belle 48 and Malinda Jeffers 25 were the principal scorers. In the third game, Speightland Challengers were hammered by Hill Foot Vipers by 10 wickets. Batting first Speightland Challengers were bowled out for 128 10 overs. Desmond Spinner top scored with 51 (2x4 6x6); Vicky
Delon Williams were the joint top scorers with 13 apiece. The main destroyer with the ball was Bodie Bridgelall with 4-9 in 2 overs. In reply, Bad Boys eased to victory at 65-2 needing just 5.3 overs. Eon Reddock led with 25 and Deon Belle 14. Game Five, Hill Foot Vipers defeated Bad Boys by 61 runs. Batting first Hill Foot Vipers posted 160-6 in 10 overs. Ruel Alleyne slammed 50 (2x4 5x6) and Lantie Hinds 37 (1x4 5x6). Calvin Charles took 3-24 in 2 overs.
New constitution to govern WDFA passed; elections set for October 24
Brawl in Bermuda club game leads to life ban
Two of the teams involved in the competition, Speightland Challengers (Above) and Hill Foot Vipers pose for photos.
could only muster 109-5 off their 10 overs. Top scorer Delon Williams with 65 decorated with 8 fours and 1 six while Leon Moseley hit 25 (3x4 1x6). Carlos Hall bagged 2 for 22 in 2 overs for the winners. In the lone female game, Sunrise got the better of All Stars Conquerors by 3 runs. Batting first Sunrise made 108-6 in 10 overs.
Raghubeer bagged 4-24 in 2 overs.Hill Foot Vipers romped to victory at 132 without losing a wicket in 6.1 overs. Avinash Mahabir led the way with 65 (2x4 8x6) and Lantie Hinds 53 (2x4 7x6) orchestrated the win. Game four saw Bad Boys thumping Pacesetters by 8 wickets. Batting first, Pacesetters were sent packing for 64 in 10 overs; Lester Thom 10 and
In reply Bad Boys could only manage 99-9 off their 10 overs; the batsmen found it difficult to negotiate the Hill Foot Vipers bowling, only Dodie Bridgelall 12 and Eon Reddock 10 manged double figures. Game six saw Sun Run winning by a walk over from Kairuni. Matches will continue this weekend at the same venue. (Jacquey Bourne)