Weekend Mirror 17th February 2018 by Weekend Mirror

17-18 February, 2018 / Vol. 10 No. 9 / Price: $100

Internet: http: //www.mirrornewsgy.com / e-mail: weekendmirror@gmail.com

PPP calls APNU+AFC out on State Monitoring…

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Guyanese being asked to declare political affiliation Granger is either being dishonest or suffering from memory failure – Jagdeo PAGE 3

SEE INSIDE

No one shows up for day one of Lindo Creek CoI PAGE 3 APNU PAGE 21 Parliamentarian guiding GRO team for birth certificate issuance in Region 1

PPP/C takes APNU+AFC gov’t to court over its move to hide US$18M

One hardship after another

– sacked sugar workers

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Amerindian communities still without solar panels

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‘There is an active threat to our PAGE 3 territorial integrity’ – Jagdeo

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

PPP calls APNU+AFC out on State Monitoring…

Guyanese being asked to declare political affiliation C

itizens accessing several services, including attempting to secure insurance for their vehicles, are being asked to declare their political affiliation on ‘In-

dividual Customer Verification Forms’, despite the fact that there is no law that demands them to do so. The People’s Progressive Party has since called on the APNU+AFC Coalition government to not only take action to reverse what has been described as a “retrograde” move, but to also come clean with the Guyanese people. “The PPP calls on the Government, and related entities, to disclose if this is a new policy, and, under what statute has this been implemented, and why has there been no public announcement on this new requirement,” the Party said in a statement released

this week. The PPP made clear that it is unaware of any law, passed in the National Assembly, which authorizes reporting agencies to engage in the collection of such information. “In fact, any such law, were it to exist, would be in violation of Article 149 (1) (a) of the Guyana Constitution which unambiguously states that: “No law shall make any provision that is discriminatory either of itself or in its effect.”, and any such law would therefore be null and void. Furthermore, Article 149 (2) specifically protects all Guyanese citizens from discrimination on many grounds, including “political opinion…conscience, belief.” Article 147 also guarantees citizens’ right to freedom of association, the right to belong and form political parties. Therefore, any request for one’s political affiliation would be in violation of these Articles of the Constitution,” the Party said. The PPP added that Recommendation 12 of FATF and the 2015 AMLCFT Amendment Act and regulations with regard to “Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs)” states the following: “A politically exposed person (PEP) is defined by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as an individual who is or has been entrusted with a prominent public function. Due to their position and influence, it is recognised that many PEPs are in positions that potentially can be abused for the purpose of committing money

laundering (ML) offences and related predicate offences, including corruption and bribery, as well as conducting activity related to terrorist financing (TF). These requirements are preventive (not criminal) in nature, and should not be interpreted as stigmatising PEPs as such being involved in criminal activity. Refusing a business relationship with a PEP simply based on the determination that the client is a PEP is contrary to the letter and spirit of Recommendation 12.” As such, the Party pointed out that this definition does not refer to nor require any citizen to state their political party affiliation. In addition, S18 of the 1998 Prevention of Discrimination Act, which specifically addresses ‘Application forms, etc.’, states that it is unlawful for a person to request or require any other person to provide information relative to their political opinions. All considered, the PPP charged that the demand for Guyanese to declare their political affiliation is an “unconstitutional imposition” on the Guyanese people.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Granger is either being dishonest or suffering from memory failure – Jagdeo C

omments from President David Granger have found him on the receiving end of criticisms from People’s Progressive Party (PPP), General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo. Earlier this week, Granger said, “The courts cannot be paralysed by the behaviour of one person….we cannot be without a Chancellor and a Chief Justice, and right now, two persons are acting and I had hoped that we could have moved forward by having substantive or fulltime appointment agreed, but this has not happened and the Constitution requires me to await the approval of the Leader of the Opposition and

this hasn’t come.” Jagdeo in response said, “Is this president still living in Guyana? He lives in a dif-

ferent university. It is totally dishonest…can you be more dishonest than this? This is pure unadulterated dishonestly from Granger.” Given the accusation that the courts will be paralysed by not having a substantive Chancellor and Chief Justice, the PPP General Secretary and Opposition Leader noted that Granger was a former Opposition Leader, from 2011 to 2015, and he withheld his agreement for the substantive appointment of a Chancellor and Chief Justice. Jagdeo added that even as President, he took almost three years before naming persons to be substantively appointed in the positions.

He added, “…I don’t see how the work of the judiciary is being stymied. The judiciary functioned for 12

years, during which the PNC, APNU withheld approval.” Granger nominated Antigua and Barbuda’s Justice Kenneth Benjamin as Chancellor and Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards as Chief Justice. “I made it clear that after the due diligence I did, I could not offer my agreement as required in the Constitution,” the PPP General Secretary said. Meanwhile, Jagdeo made is clear that he is prepared to meet with the President to “settle on a process” that will allow nominees to be named, in the interest of securing agreement on both sides. Jagdeo noted that Granger seems to be look-

ing for an excuse for the possibility of a move to unconstitutionally and unilaterally appointing substantively a Chancellor and Chief Justice. “If he moves to appoint a Chancellor and Chief Justice, he not only violates constitution, but the excuse he is using will be spurious,” he said. According to him, the persons acting as Chancellor and Chief Justice are performing well. “We have people acting and I think they are doing a good job in their positions,” he said. “If is not dishonestly it has to be memory failure,” Jagdeo concluded about the state of affairs.

is an active threat to our territorial No one shows up for day one ‘There integrity’ – Jagdeo of Lindo Creek CoI S tressing his awareness of the need for confidentiality in dealing with border issues, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, stated that this has to be balanced with the need to inform Guyanese of the state of affairs. “You have to balance need for confidentiality with the necessity to keep our public

he Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (COI) – which was hurriedly put together by President David Granger – has been postponed because of failure to put certain systems in place and because witnesses did not show up. In a matter of days, the APNU+AFC Administration announced the establishment of the COI, sworn in a lone commissioner who is the father of a Minister and set today as the first public hearing. Critics say that the activity was done in haste and there was not enough time to properly plan and give notices to persons who may wish to give testimonies. The Commissioner, Donald Trotman told media operatives who were waiting for over an hour at the Ministry of Public Service where the COI is being held that it will be postponed. He could not say when the COI will recommence. Trotman – who is the father of the Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman – admitted that witnesses who were expected to testify did not show up. “We were expecting relatives of the deceased whose deaths are being inquired into at Lindo Creek but some of them have been unable to come, some may arrive late and the uncertainty of their presence is one of the factors that would make the hearing possible,” Trotman said.

informed, particularly when there are active threats to our borders,” he said. While restating the Parliamentary Opposition’s support for the Government’s efforts to defend Guyana’s territorial integrity, Jagdeo said, “I believe there is an active threat to our territorial integrity and our gov-

ernment is not forthcoming in addressing this threat and informing the public of this…it is the people who will be called on to defend our country.” The Opposition Leader added that this matter cannot be a partisan one, moving forward, particularly given new developments.

Jagdeo questions if AFC’s partisan comments represents the new approach of Coalition gov’t to border controversy

He dismissed suspicions that the witnesses did not show up because they were hesitant to testify. Trotman also indicated that there were important prerequisite arrangements that had to be put in place but this was not done. The Lindo Creek Massacre was set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of eight men at at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara- Berbice Region on, or about June 21, 2008. Opposition Leader, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo had welcomed the idea of a comprehensive COI that addressed

the entire crime wave period and called for it to not be politically tainted. However, given the haste in which it was established, Jagdeo raised questions of the true intentions of the activity. In a statement, the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) had expressed that it appears that the Commission was established with a political objective. “Due to the partisan approach in establishing the Commission, which does not inspire trust and confidence, persons with vital information may be reluctant to come forward,” the Party had noted.

he political Opposition is currently looking to see if the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy will now become a partisan issue, according to Opposition Leader, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who noted today that he was appalled at the comments by the Alliance For Change (AFC), which were published by the Kaieteur News on February 4, 2018. “I want to see if the Coalition Government wants to go the route of making this a partisan issue. We are prepared for that,” he declared. The AFC’s Sunday column – headlined ‘How dare you, Mr. Jagdeo? Watch and learn’ –claims that Jagdeo “had seriously considered surrendering parts of Guyana’s land and sea space to Venezuela ‘just to ease the pressure’ on his government and appease the land-hungry Venezuelans.” The AFC’s column is not the first time that the Party has misrepresented of comments made by Jagdeo in 2015. At a news conference in October 2015, Jagdeo explained

that in addressing the border controversy several internal discussions were held, there was an internal technical analysis and several options were reviewed. When pressed by the media corps on the nature of the options, Jagdeo said: “There was one view, let me say, one view, that you could probably, on the maritime area, give Venezuela a channel out to the sea. So you could have made a concession in the maritime area, but make sure you do not concede any territory that is land based, because the maritime boundaries are still yet to be determined…that was only one view.” However, he also stressed that at no decision was made. Jagdeo today reiterated that the Coalition Government has the political Opposition’s full support as it moves to defend Guyana’s territorial integrity. He said, “Government has our full support on this matter. The PPP continues to treat this as a matter of national interest and not a partisan matter…this is why I

am appalled at AFC column.” However, he noted that Guyana has seen the People’s National Congress (PNC) undermine national solidarity on border matters before. In 2004, a PNCR delegation travel to Suriname to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Desi Bouterse, at a time when Guyana was making progress in moves to resolve the Guyana/Suriname offshore maritime dispute. “They have done it before, in the Suriname issue. The PNC sought to undermine me as president. I am not going to do that in this case,” Jagdeo said. The Opposition Leader explained that he has refrained from sharing certain views on how the Coalition Government is handling the border issue. “ I have refrained to do this because of fear of undermining national solidarity,” he said. On that note, he reiterated that the position of the political Opposition remains unchanged, unless the Coalition Government wants to “change their approach” to the matter.

EDITORIAL

Time to stop the reversal in Amerindian development T

he People’s Progressive Party/Civic government had a clear-cut vision of hinterland and Amerindian development as part of a larger, farsighted national strategic plan for the entire country. The PPP sees the all-round development of our first peoples as integral to the progress of the nation. This emphasis on distinct policies and programmes to enhance the living conditions of Amerindians and their mostly isolated communities deep in Guyana’s forests, rivers and savannahs, derives from the historical neglect of this section of the population and the country. Under British colonialism and the post-independence undemocratic rule of the People’s National Congress, the Amerindians, then about 10 percent of the population, were reduced to second class citizens, left abandoned without any help from central government. Basic necessities for a normal life were absent. This was especially evident in the areas of health, housing, education water, electricity and infrastructure. Communication between and among villages, and with the coast, was negligible. The economies of the villages were essentially to produce food for themselves. There were no means of getting jobs, as there were no other economic activities taking place. Soon after taking office in 1992, the newly-elected PPP/C administration, under President Chaddi Jagan, established a Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, in order to focus on this important aspect of development. Successive administrations under Presidents Sam Hinds, Janet Jagan, Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar, implemented programmes that gradually saw Amerindians enjoying an increasing higher standard of living. Villages were experiencing transformation and small sustainable village economies were taking roots along with more robust subsistence farming. Within a period of two years, the PPP achieved a virtual revolution in the hinterland. The villages were bustling with life. Schools were being built. For the first time since they came to these shores, Amerindians were enjoying secondary education right in their regions. More and more hospitals and health centres were being established. Road networks were being improved. More and more villages were enjoying pure drinking water. Again, for the first time, many places were enjoying electricity and the use of modern telecommunication facilities. The PPP government had created opportunities for Amerindians to access university education at the University of Guyana and overseas. Today, there are many Amerindian medical doctors and other qualified professionals, as a result of those initiatives. An outstanding achievement of the PPP Administration has been the vigorous land titling programme, whereby Amerindians got titles to their traditional lands. In the latter part of the PPP governance, the future development of Amerindians and their communities were captured in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) through which huge amounts of resources were to be channeled in this direction. These positive results were accomplished through several specific programmes, including the Amerindian Development Fund, the President’s Award and the National Hinterland Secure Livelihood Programme. As these progrmmes became successful and more resources were allocated for hinterland development, some in the then opposition, and now in government, exhibited hostility claiming that Amerindians were getting too large a slice of the national cake. Guyanese will recall how the then opposition (APNU-AFC) cut the national budget presented by the PPP/C by some $20 billion. Within that amount were significant allocations for Amerindian development. Apart from these, the PPP/C government allowed the growth of democratic norms, transparency and accountability in the affairs of Amerindians. The PPP/C established local democracy in the villages, elections for Toshoas and the creation and maturing of the National Toshaos Council that governs the affairs of the communities. One of the complexities of this situation of bringing Amerindians into the national mainstream of development was to find that balance between uplifting the social-economic conditions of Amerindians and the protection and preservation

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

The crime wave must be dealt with in time for Mash Dear Editor,

ith the upcoming Mash season and its importance to the economy, no time must be wasted in putting a stop to the crime wave taking place. If not properly nipped in the bud it will damage the livelihoods of many small businesses and their communities, as Mash season is extremely important to the income of many families and sets the tone for the economy throughout the year. It’s time for the police to have a

strong presence on the roads as well as establishing checkpoints. No opportunity to manoeuvre or room for escape should be allowed these criminals. They are showing an utter lack of concern for the power of the justice system and the strength of the police and military in this country. It’s time for zero tolerance for these offenders. President Granger is a pillar in the armed forces and these criminals should feel the heavy hand of justice upon them as soon as possible. All deportees should be rounded

up and made to check in with the relevant authorities as well as those on parole as required by the court. No further gaps in the follow-ups with criminal elements should be tolerated and the strength of public involvement should be encouraged even more. The country is too small for these criminals to be able to get away with such heinous acts for that length of time. Sincerely, J. Changlee

GuySuCo’s downward revision of production target concerning Dear Editor,

he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is very disturbed to learn that GuySuCo has revised downwards its 2018 sugar production target. This information is moreso of concern considering that as yet not one stalk of cane has been harvested for 2018. From the corporation’s First Crop 2018 Weekly Production Incentive memorandum dated January 29, 2018, the GuySuCo, it was stated, was expected to produce 103,002 tonnes sugar this year. It must be noted that Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan in his 2018 Budget address announced that the GuySuCo would produce 115,447 tonnes. In effect, in a matter of weeks, and we reiterate without a stalk of cane being harvested, the corporation had

already reduced its target by nearly 11 per cent. This announcement, for us, is not comforting and reminds us of what took place in 2017 when the production target was reduced on several occasions and the industry ultimately produced a little over 137,000 tonnes sugar, the worst production since 1990. The fact that reductions are already taking place causes us naturally to wonder what is really taking place in GuySuCo, especially when a number of executives, experts, advisors, etc, have been taken on in recent times, and who reportedly are still on the job despite four estates being closed. Clearly, something is not right and those who are charged with leading and managing the corporation have seemingly fallen asleep at the wheel, while thousands of hapless workers are being

affected. The industry obviously has lost its way and in this hapless condition has pursued myopic and senseless measures which have brought on suffering to thousands of workers, their dependents and those who earn a living from the industry’s full operations. Again, we are seeing the early results of an industry that is set on an ill-advised track and clearly headed by stubborn decision- makers who seem to be unable to give the required leadership to the industry at this time. The decision-makers posited that the closure of the estates will return profitability to the company, but from the way it is being managed that “profitability” is nothing but a pipe dream.

region with indications of whether it is still ongoing or has been completed. This may minimise the possible belief that the government is not do-

ing much for the nation in terms of projects and general development.

Yours faithfully Seepaul Narine, General Secretary, GAWU

There is no information on projects Dear Editor,

am wondering if this government cannot on a quarterly basis publish what work is being done in each

of the rights, ethnic identity, language, culture, etc. The PPP has made Amerindians equal to any other citizen Guyanese and placed them in a position to play a vital role in the development of the country. Unfortunately, with the APNU/AFC coming into power, that pattern of progress has been disrupted and not only for Amerindians, but for the entire country. It seems that Amerindians are in for a hard time as the neglect that was shown to them is here again. The mass dismissal of some 2,000 young Amerindians employed to assist communities, is symptomatic of the general attitude of this government towards indigenous

Yours faithfully, K. Prasad

peoples. Very little attention is being placed on Amerindian development and many of the programmes initiated by the PPP/C are at a standstill. Much of what is being done, half-heartedly, is what the previous government had put in place. It is time for Amerindians to stand up to this reversal of their fortunes. Just like they have spoken out against the establishment of the Land Commission, which sought to put on the table rights already won, they would have to stand up and let this government know that they will not take it easy. And the Amerindians must feel that other Guyanese are with them.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Guyanese should call on the government to renegotiate the oil contract Dear Editor,

ou do not have to be an oil expert to appreciate the fact that the Exxon contract is skewed in favour of the oil companies. We do not have to be oil experts to discern the many instances where we stand to lose and where our future generations stand to lose. Moreover, we do not have to be oil experts to appreciate the fact that other countries have gotten far better deals for their oil and that Exxon had tried in several instances to rob some poor nations who have demanded that their Exxon contract be renegotiated and were successful. As a non-expert in oil we do understand that we are contracted to pay a hefty US$460 million cost recovery with an endless list of cost recoveries that will deplete the revenue by 75%. Then after deducting operating costs the profit available is split 50:50. We pay all interest on pre-contract loans taken by Exxon; our royalty is a paltry 2%; our signing bonus is a beggarly US$18m compared to other countries; there is no ringfencing which means the cost recovery can be inflated; we gave incomparable tax concessions (VAT and duties); there is no corporation tax and we pay the income taxes for Exxon. More than 250 classes of uncapped items imported will not be inspected by GRA; we pay all litigation fees; and we pay for donations made by Exxon. There is no provision for any adverse effects on fishing grounds, coastal communities or neighbouring countries; provisions for oil spills are yet to be seen. The Minister must give 7 days notice if he wants to visit the site; there is the unconstitutional Stability of Agreement clause, and the list goes on. We do not have to be oil experts to understand this. In addition, Annex C is evidence that we are not going to get any reprieve from the op-

erational cost as well. There are many items of expenditure which are disallowed in other countries but which are allowed in this Exxon contract. This again will put a serious dent in the oil profit available for splitting. Even the crumbs will be fewer. When this is looked at in the light of our inability to accurately audit these costs we will then appreciate our serious debilitated condition. The IMF has even urged the government to commence the auditing of all exploration and development costs by ExxonMobil, and it was pointed out that GRA has limited skills for this type of audit. Despite this GRA is now doing the audit. Indonesia had 600 persons involved in the verification of cost recovery claims by Exxon, and they failed. Tanzania also had a problem with verifying oil costs. Will GRA be able to do that? Oil production is projected to begin in 2020 but the government has failed to put specific measures in place to ensure that cost recovery claims can be authenticated. Our future benefits from oil seem bleak. In July 2016, Minister Trotman had said that Guyana will be dictating its own terms and conditions for the companies which are drilling for oil, and was adamant that no one was dictating to the government. Unfortunately, soon after he said this he became signatory to the worst lopsided oil contract this world has ever seen. A contract which has become an affront to all Guyanese, one which was negotiated by a Harvard trained negotiator and his band of oil experts. All Guyanese should call on the government to renegotiate this contract. From all the indications, Exxon has all the trappings of a state within a state. This new state has a name: Exxon Guyana! Yours faithfully, H. Yusuf

Gangaram water pump has been shut off with closure of Rose Hall Dear Editor,

ver the last few months the closure of the Rose Hall Estate has been causing serious spin-off effects for the people of East and West Canje, East Bank Berbice, New Amsterdam and the surrounding areas. There is a serious water crisis in the Betsy Ground and Gangaram villages in East Canje. This is due to the fact that the Rose Hall

Estate supplies fuel and maintains a pump in Gangaram which in return supplies water to the neighbouring villages, so because of the closure of the Rose Hall Estate the pump station has been closed, with no alternative for the people. The most important point to note is that the residents were not paying any water rates. Now that the pump is closed it will be interesting to see what the next step by

the government would be. After the government has terminated the workers, if they now implement a new burden of water rates it would indeed be to trample on their backs. The government should ensure that fuel is available and maintenance schedules in place so the operation of the pump could commence immediately. Z. Hussain

We need more internet providers and strong regulations Dear Editor,

hen the PPP/C government started an ICT fibre optic cable from Brazil, Guyanese were elated. I think it was recognized that Gtt seemed incapable of delivering fit and proper internet service. However, knowing another cable was coming I sensed the company was making some effort to boost up and improve its service. However, news of the demise of this project has dashed that optimism. It is no secret that Guyanese have been enduring the most obnoxious internet service in this part of the world. Editor, I would use the internet after work mostly from 6 pm to 11 pm daily mainly for reading and research. I pay $6299 for 1.5mbs download. I would sit 15 to 20 minutes hoping a simple web page would open. This has been most noticeable for the past six months. I have been doing regular speed tests at Gtt

speedtest.com and Ookla. com Both sites revealed than I was getting less than 0.20mbs download speed. I made checks with several persons just to ensure I have an accurate opinion. My findings were alarming. Persons who were paying for 5mbs and 10 mbs were getting an average download of 1.5mbs average or less. This is mostly prevalent during the peak hours. It is clear that we are not getting what we pay for. Everywhere the subject discussion came up, it ended with the strong belief that Guyanese were shortchanged. This has been skilfully masked with daily PR gimmick such as “Getting better all the time”, “lightning speed”, “Bigger Better Network” and “do more with GTT”. I filed 2 complaints with Gtt (Ref-# 1989062 and 1986130). Nothing happened. I furthered my complaint to the PUC and I am still waiting. I have lost

faith in this whole process but more so Gtt. My appeal will now go to Minister Cathy Hughes. If Guyana is to rank in development with the rest of the world, a fit and proper ICT sector is integral. We need to stop quarrelling with Gtt. We need to have more internet providers and strong regulations in place. This is most urgent as we have a lot of catching up to do with the rest of the world. Minister Cathy Hughes needs to ensure she has proper feedback mechanisms so she will be properly guided. Opening 200 ICT hubs is excellent news. But the quality of connectivity is most important. I know the busy Minister has been working very hard and has every good intention. I trust that she will fulfil Guyanese expectations and ensure fit and proper internet service descends on this land. Yours faithfully, C Woolford

Did the new GPL CEO come with new generators? Dear Editor,

write with great disgust and terrible disappointment about the operations of the Guyana Power & Light Incorporated. Although this is nothing new to the populace, we would have thought with almost 10 years of black-outs, any government would have taken a serious look at the power plants and do something to alleviate the suffering of citizens. Why do we have to suffer like this in our homes, our schools, our offices and shops, as well as provide a means for bandits to operate at night? Do you think ministers of government, big boys with money and special generating sets care about the small man? Not at all. The greatest black-outs occurred on the first day the new CEO took over; what a calamity. Over the past two weeks beginning from the Friday the new man was em-

ployed, we have had black-outs nearly 3-4 times per day, and as I write today, Monday 12th February, the black-out started two hours ago and I am not expecting lights in a hurry. Let me ask what can this new CEO do with all his qualifications; did he walk with new generators for us? Editor, can I make a suggestion? With all this talk of the expectation of billions of dollars from oil revenue, couldn’t we ask the following countries to lend us money to purchase new generators: either UK, Germany, Belgium or Japan, and promise to pay them back with interest from our expected revenue? If I am talking sense, then the government should please act now and return GPL to Guyanese management, and let there be light. Yours faithfully, S M V Nasseer

Fuel prices increased again: Drivers say ‘customers cannot afford any increases’

he Guyana Oil Company Limited (GuyOil) has increased its rates for fuel prices, but taxi and minibus drivers have expressed concern as to what this holds for them. Taxi drivers, whose prices are higher than the bus fares charged, have related that if they should raise their prices any further, it would lessen the amount of customers they receive on a daily basis. The increased price for fuel will have to be met with their fares remaining unchanged. “People ain’t want to pay if we raise the fare for

a drop-off. If the gas price increase and we raise the fare from $500 to $600, they will not travel with us. So we taxi drivers does have to do through with the same thing all the time. There’s nothing that I personally can do. The gas raise, I still have to work. We have to wait and see,” one driver, who asked to remain unnamed in fear of victimization, said. However, minibus drivers have expressed that this is affecting them because their fares are way lower than those of taxis, while the distance is almost the

same, or even much greater. “The gas prices always going up, but we can’t raise the fare. The price for gas never decreased, it always increasing. Every time it increasing, we still have to work with the same fare. We don’t really make much at the end of the day,” said a minibus driver, who asked to remain unnamed. Fuel prices were increased this week, and gasoline now retails at $204 per litre. Kerosene, which was priced at $130, is now $137 per litre; while diesel, which was $188, has now been increased to $204 per litre.

Guyanese to pay more for sugar

ocal consumers will now have to pay more for sugar, as the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has moved to increase the cost of each bag of sugar on the local market. This was confirmed on Monday by acting Chief

Executive Officer (CEO) of GuySuCo, Paul Bhim. “We had just finished reviewing the price on the local market and we thought it was an opportune time to increase,” he said. Asked whether this increase was also triggered

as a result of the reconfiguration of GuySuCo and the sugar industry as a whole, the acting CEO tried to brush aside those assumptions. “Well, no. We haven’t increased the price for a number of years and we thought that now is the best time to do it. I mean, it was only increased by five per cent, so it won’t make a huge difference,” he added. The new increase was implemented early in February. The increase is for each 50-kilogram bag of sugar, which has now increased from $4900 to $5145.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Consumers reject GWI’s push for increased rates, no audited statements presented since 2015 T he Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) attempts to increase rates in a number of categories were staunchly resisted by consumers; some of whom vented their frustrations with the utility company during a public hearing on Monday (February 12, 2018). GWI was forced to defend its proposed increases to consumers at a public hearing at Cara Lodge, in Georgetown. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) facilitated the hearing. However, it soon turned into a fiery exchange. GWI claimed that the increase is necessary, since revenue flows to the water company have slowed. However, members of the public asked for evidence of this and questioned the status of audited financial statements. GWI Chief Executive Officer, Dr Richard Van WestCharles revealed that the entity was still in the process of finalising 2016 statements. The PUC chair, Deb Britton ordered GWI to make the pertinent documents available, so that the Commission can review them. She also instructed GWI to address

issues raised about the possible effects of ancillary rate hikes. For unmetered residential properties, a monthly fixed charge of $500 along with $1500 per month is on the table. Their metered counterparts face charges of $500 per month and $112 per cubic meter. For unmetered pensioners, a water usage charge of $740 per month is proposed, while the fixed charge will be waived. Metered non-residential customers face a monthly charge of $500 and a monthly consumption charge of $150 per cubic meter. Unmetered non-residential customers are charged based on the category of their operations

– small, medium and large. All these categories are proposed to pay a fixed monthly charge of $500. In the case of small operations, it is proposed that they pay $3750 per month, while medium operations are facing a $12,000 charge. Large scale consumers can end up paying $24,000. For the sewerage tariff, GWI is proposing $417 per month for residential customers and pensioners; while a monthly charge of $2860 is being proposed for non-residential metered and unmetered small-scale consumers. Medium-scale consumers face paying $4350 and large-scale consumers $6375 per month.

Amicable, bi-partisan approach to dealing with changes to ExxonMobil contract could receive support – Jagdeo

he APNU+AFC Coalition Government’s Cabinet has not concluded that the ExxonMobil contract is a bad one, according to Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo. “The problem is the asinine comments in defence of the contract by Trotman, when they incompetently went to the table, they were not prepared,” he said. President David Granger, this week, said that there is no immediate intention to review the contract between Guyana and ExxonMobil, indicating, however, that the matter is before Cabinet. “These matters are before Cabinet and it depends on what determination Cabinet arrives at but the Contract is an agreement between two parties and these things that have to be approached very carefully. There is no prospect at the present time that it is the intention of Cabinet to review it, but as I said it is before Cabinet,” he said. When asked about support for a parliamentary motion on the renegotiation

of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) between Guyana and ExxonMobil, he said, “If the government comes with a motion of that nature, once the motion is in defense of the interest of Guyanese and in the interest of Guyana, not a company or anyone, to address the problematic aspects of the contract, it will be supported. “…we will support anything that brings benefits for our country and our people… if the other party agrees to come to the table, it can be done amicably….the amicable approach is the best suited one…if they want to approach amicable renegotiation in a bipartisan, we will participate this.” Asked whether, based

on his experience as a former President, that such an agreement could be renegotiated, Jagdeo said,. “Anything that any sovereign government negotiates with a second party, with another party, could be renegotiated if the other party agrees to come to the table, it could be done amicably.” Jagdeo recalled that back in the 1990s, the PPP had been concerned about contracts between the then People’s National Congress (PNC)-led administration and Omai Gold Mines, and Barama Company. However, on coming to power in 1992, he said the PPPC did not renegotiate those deals “because we were very worried about the signal that it sends to the country.” Jagdeo stressed that, “Any motion, any public position that supports the interest of Guyanese people- I made that clear- that will see them get wealthier, better off, etc in the long run using oil resources or any other resources, you can count on the PPP’s support for that.”

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

History will recall AFC as the destructors that let sugar fail ‒ Ramsaroop T

he imminent death and soon fading away of the Alliance for Change (AFC) from the landscape of Guyanese politics has come at a price - a price the sugar workers that voted for the likes of Khemraj Ramjattan and Moses Nagamootoo have been made to pay. As such, the current economic quagmire with which Guyana finds itself in can be laid in great part at the feet of the AFC, a party whose marriage of convenience with the PNC,…years ago on the now famous Valentine’s Day Accord inked at the Georgetown Club. Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop in an interview this past week reflected on the AFC and what he termed “a marriage of convenience,” which will quickly come to end. “It was as if the sugar workers were sacrificed on the altar of the PNCled APNU since it was the AFC that secured the votes for the coalition in the May 2015 Elections.” The Economic Analyst was adamant that the fate of the sugar industry has found itself in what has to be seen in the context of the promises the AFC leaders had made to those workers in the sugar belt….“promises they were expected to hold the PNC to keep.” According to Dr. Ramsaroop, the AFC leaders, having been seduced with the promise of power was willing to “sell the sugar workers’ votes to David Granger and the PNC knowing full well that party was not supported by or supported in the sugar belt.” Ramsaroop, in his analysis, said that the end result is that PNC Granger Government now has control— with the help of the sugar workers’ votes handed to it by the AFC—and has instead gone about shutting down the industry, already laying off thousands of workers. Dr. Ramsaroop reminded worse yet that these workers in some cases were

only paid a portion of their severance packages. Reflecting on the pact between the AFC and the PNC-led coalition; Dr. Ramsaroop said the AFC’s Leaders were all out with a single motive in mind—getting power for themselves. According to Dr. Ramsaroop, now that the AFC top tier have been positioned in cushy jobs they are all too willing not to rock the boat with the David Granger Administration. This, he said, is evident in the party’s private, since made public, internal consternations over the appointment of a geriatric chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, but was powerless to influence the likes of the ‘de facto President’ and the President by not making more of that questionable decision. According to Dr. Ramsaroop, at the time the AFC signed ‘its marriage certificate with the PNC’ in the Cumminsgburg Accord, there was an agreement to share various government positions. “What the AFC was promised on paper sounded at the time as though they could be able to hold Granger and his boys to account but having been appointed to senior positions with fat salaries and accompanying perks, the

Ramjattans, Nagamootoos, Trotmans and Pattersons discarded any thought of accountability throwing the principle completely out of the window.” Inked on Valentine’s Day in 2015 ahead of the regional and General elections, the AFC promised prime ministerial position that boasted a range of new powers and control. That. Alas, according to Dr. Ramsaroop, “no sooner than the ink had dried on the Cummingsburg Accord that Nagamootoo, a supposed lawyer, was told that none of what he was promised was catered for under the constitution.” “I do not want to speak ill about a man who is currently not in the best of health but his absence from Government will not be detrimental since he only cuts ribbons at openings. Dr Ramsaroop used, too, as example of the PNC’s disregard for the AFC, the fact that the President did not see it fit to select a member of AFC faction of the coalition to act as Prime Minister, while he is unwell and unable to perform his functions. “Sadly this is the reality with which the AFC has found itself in and this 2018 is its last year of existence as any kind of a political force in Guyana”, the Analyst stated.

Dr. Ramsaroop qualified his position by pointing that the upcoming Local Government Election, an election that the AFC said it will go at alone since the popular view is that it has begun to lose its identity. “Sugar workers will not forget the betrayal that was perpetrated on them by the likes of Nagamootoo and his sidekick Ramjattan and come election time the sugar workers’ vote that was entrusted to the AFC and sold out to the PNC will be returned to the Peoples Progressive Party.” He concluded by saying that with the AFC most

likely to be decimated next year at the Local Government polls, Granger will then have no use for the party since it would have lost the important sugar vote that had given it power in 2015. “Voters will also not be kind to the AFC come the next general election as the party once thought to be a viable third force, would have been remembered by the sugar workers that they were cast aside by political opportunists who not only destroyed their lives, but also the economic base of the country for their own personal gain ”

There was a grandiose promise at the end of December on the part of the AFC and its leadership to renegotiate its Cummingsburg Accord to ensure that Granger not only deliverers on what was promised in the first place, but also to expand its power. He posited “the AFC is dreaming if it thinks that the people of Guyana ever really believed that it was in any position to renegotiate with Granger….This week we celebrated Valentine’s Day, promoting love but there appeared to be none for AFC as there was no renewed Accord .”

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Gov’t still to issue titles to several Indigenous Communities W

ork on the extended Amerindian Land Titling (ALT) is still to be completed – an admission that was made by Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock . Among the villages to receive titles are: Four Miles in

Port Kaituma, Region One; Rockstone, Region Ten; Kambaru Region Seven; and Mashabo, Capoey and Mainstay in Region Two. Prior to 1992, only 74 communities were titled. Since, then 24 more villages were granted titles, bringing

the total of titled villages to 98, seventy-seven of which had been demarcated. Six titles were to be approved prior to May 2015 and another seven extensions were investigated and in preparation for approval. In 2010, MoAA together

with UNDP and the Office of the President, had initiated a Land titling Project that sought to process applications for titling and demarcation. Under the Guyana REDD + Investment Fund (GRIF), the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government in 2013 signed a US$10.7M document for the implementation of the Amerindian Land Titling and Demarcation project. Since then, an additional $165M was earmarked for the advancing

of the remaining identified areas for land titling. A Project Management Unit was established in June 2014 to facilitate the implementation of the project. However, under the APNU+AFC government, this unit was disbanded. The ALT project seeks to achieve three major goals: completion of land titles issues and demarcation processes for all Amerindian villages that submitted requests, increased use of existing and alternative mechanisms to

resolve land titling disputes and thirdly a communication strategy including a handbook describing the process of titling, demarcation and the social economic impact of secured land tenure. While Indigenous people in many Countries have right of use of the Land only, in Guyana where the Indigenous People account for approximately 9.7% of the population, Amerindians own land including the forests resources within their Titled Lands.

APNU+AFC buckles under pressure but only providing partial assistance to flood hit residents in Region 8

ore than seven months later, the Coalition Government has buckled under pressure from the Parliamentary Opposition and from Guyanese. Some $10M has been set aside to support the reconstruction of homes for residents of Kaibarupai and Chenapau, Region Eight. These communities were severely affected by floods during heavy rainfall in May 2017. However, there are now new concerns about whether the $10M will be sufficient. Junior Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe has said that the monies will be spent to

purchase generators, power saws and zinc sheets for the residents. The issue of compensation for persons, particularly farmers who lost crops and livestock and those in the hinterland regions who lost homes, after the recent flooding, was raised in the House by the Parliamentary Opposition in July 2017. At that time Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan, told the House that the compensation is not usually provided by the State. “Compensation is not normally provided,” Bulkan said. Bulkan was also questioned on whether any

form of assistance will be provided to the communities. The Minister did not detail what form the ‘assistance’ will take, when he grudgingly stated that there will be consideration of possible assistance. In 2017, several farmlands and homes at Kaibarupai, Waipa, Chenapau, Itabac, Kanapang, Kopinang and Sand Hill Settlement, Region Eight were flooded to a depth of 10 to 25 feet. A total of 521 households and 266 farmlands were affected during the flood while 61 houses were damaged and 56 were washed away.

19 cases of rape reported in January alone

whopping 19 rape cases were reported in January 2018, according to statistics released by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Tuesday (February 13, 2018). It is unclear how many cases have been filed from the 19 reports and how many cases have been cleared up, including the cases from 2017 No other information, as per protocols, was disclosed to the public on the cases of reported rape.

Female Special Constable allegedly raped by colleague

female Special Constable, 18, was allegedly raped by a colleague in the wee hours of Saturday, last weekend, at a Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown hotel. Reports are that the male constable forced himself on the female rank, despite her resistance. After the assault, the woman

lodged a complaint at the Brickdam Police Station and the alleged rapist was arrested. She was further taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was examined by a doctor, who confirmed the assault. Investigations are ongoing.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Gov’t pushing ahead One hardship after with making changes another – sacked sugar workers to Amerindian Act

he Coalition Government, undeterred by criticisms, is pushing ahead with its plans to make changes to the Amerindian Act. The Parliamentary Opposition has warned the APNU+AFC Coalition against advancing any move that will not bring more benefits to Amerindians in Guyana – changes that will dilute the rights of our Indigenous Amerindian people. The Indigenous People’s Affairs Minister, Sydney Allicock, to date, has been unable to say what the government’s intention is. All he has said is that, “There were lots of ideas, proposals, and suggestions that we can review, to see what

might be adequate or relevant to today.” The Amerindian Act 2006, passed under the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), was hailed as an embodiment of policies that covered the protection of the general welfare and rights of Indigenous Peoples. It affirms the declaration of rights of indigenous peoples in specific stipulations that include governance, land rights and preservation, and Amerindian heritage. Passed a year before the UN-DRIP declaration, Guyana’s 2006 Amerindian Act includes key provisions relating to Amerindian people that are not dissimilar, in

most instances, from those outlined in the declaration, and has thus been the legal stronghold for Amerindian development. Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Opposition has also called on the Coalition Government to respect the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), which is enshrined in the 2006 Amerindian Act – which means that nothing ought to be done with the involvement of the Amerindian people. It is unclear which Amerindian communities have been consulted on changes to the Amerindian Act. The Government’s move to change the Act was announced in 2016.

Gov’t ban on scrap metal trading: New Association says Coalition unwilling to meet with stakeholders

he APNU+AFC Coalition Government placed a ban on the multi-million dollar scrap metal trade shortly after it assumed office in 2015, and to date, it is yet to be restarted – causing major hardship for the hundreds of persons who earned a living in the industry. And President of the newly formed Guyana Metal Dealers and General Exporters Association, Malek Cave,

contends that the Coalition government seems unwilling to engage stakeholders. He explained that he has been trying desperately to meet with any government official to discuss the continuation of the trade, but to no avail. “This government has shown that it has little regards for us,” he lamented. Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Opposition has stated that it is willing to engage

the Association and is ready to meet with the group, in an effort to make informed representation at available forums, including the National Assembly. To date, the Association has approximately 60 members and it is encouraging more persons to get on board and join the fight against the coalition administration for the scrap metal trade to be resumed.

One sub-machine gun, other illegal weapons seized A total of 19 illegal weapons were discovered in January 2018, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Among the weapons were: 12 pistols, 3 revolvers, 3 shotguns and the sub-machine gun.

Majority of the weapons were found it the ‘A’ Division district. Meanwhile, there was a 20 per cent increase in Fatal Accidents. According to the Force, Serious, Minor and Damage Accidents have been decreased by 17%,

15.3% and 13% respectively. Speeding, speeding/ driving under the influence of alcohol and Pedestrian crossing in the path of approaching vehicles were the main causes of the fatal accidents.

ife after the closure of the sugar estates continue to take a toll on the retrenched sugar workers who say hardships keep piling on top of the other. At a press conference on Wednesday (February 14, 2018) organised by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), a handful of former sugar workers complained of how difficult life has been since they were thrown on the breadline. Two former workers of the Wales Sugar Estate complained how a lot of their friends’ wives are leaving them because they are unable to provide for their families. Mark Salmon said: “Sometime yuh wife gon go wake up 6 ‘o’ clock to look for a job and the people them where she working hustling she more than you. They tryna fuh tek way you wife

cause she nice. That’s the disadvantage that we getting as poor people right now.” Michael Chatoo said: “I got pickney going to school and everyday they coming home saying ‘daddy, look this paper, I have to go do assignment for $200 and $300’. I can’t afford it. From 2016 to now, I can’t afford it. Me wife go away and lef me for the same thing.” The former workers also complained of difficulties in finding jobs. Glendon Grant, who worked at the Rose Hall Estate, said communities in East Canje Berbice are extremely depressed. Grant said: “Starvation might kill me soon. It rough. People nah get work. Tax ah raise, bills ah raise and you nah get work. How you gon live?” The former workers noted that the monies they receive in severance are not

enough to invest as GuySuCo and the government is telling them to do. Grant said: “We can’t afford to invest it [severance]. You can’t afford to do nothing because you have to secure it [money] to secure yourself. You have to pay for your children to go to school, you can to live on it, you can’t invest it.” Herlene Lewis, who worked at the Skeldon Sugar Estate, said: “Even if we invest we money, it wouldn’t last long. We will still need a job because who will buy from who? Because business is slow and everybody just crying out at Skeldon.” The former sugar workers are demanding that the government reopen the sugar estates as people are suffering and will continue to suffer as there are no jobs available for them to continue earning an income to provide for their families.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Corruption, breach of procurement rules, spending irregularities and more...

Coalition gov’t has racked up 50 scandals in less than 36 months

he Parliamentary Opposition has been monitoring the APNU+AFC government use of public funds and the levels of transparency and accountability. From June 10, 2015 to date, about 30 scandals have been uncovered – an average of one scandal for each month. 1. The cost of the inaugu-

ration ceremonies at the Parliament Buildings and, more particularly, the one at the National Stadium has never been revealed. 2. The removal of 8 con-

tainers containing steel by BK International from the Ministry of Public Health’s compound worth millions of dollars - in the first week after government changed in violation of a court order. The government did nothing to retrieve the containers and has been silent. 3. The dismissal of 1,972

Amerindian community service officers at “one stroke of the pen” with no cause by the third (3rd) Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous Affairs. Despite a promise by VP Allicock in the National Assembly, during the 2015 Budget debate that the government would create a new programme to hire Amerindian youths, they instead replaced this programme with the Hinterland Entrepreneurial Youth Skills Programme (HEYs). HEYS is a six-month training programme with no entrepreneurial or employment component, which is under severe duress as there are complaints that the facilitators and students have not received their stipends despite the budgetary provision of $1Billion. 4. The appointment of 33

foreign honourary advisors to assist the government and the appointment of a top heavy bureaucracy of Presidential and Ministerial advisors, which have only been partially disclosed in the National Assembly in response to questions to Ministers in 2016. The total numbers are approximated to be nearing 100 advisors (local and foreign) at a huge cost to the taxpayers.

5. India/GoG funded Spe-

ciality Hospital – the government gave a contract to Fedders Lloyd (VP Ramjattan was its lawyer) without going to tender at a price yet unknown and in violation of the procurement laws. Despite public outcry, the government refused to terminate the contract for the Speciality Hospital. The company was delisted by the IDB and the Indian government and Eximbank withdrew the money for the loan. There has been no disclosure as to how much Fedders Lloyd was paid and what work had been done when the company was delisted and the project halted. 6. The first act of the gov-

ernment was to give themselves enormous salary increases between 50 -100 % of what the former government ministers received. This was quietly done in September 2015 and the parliamentary opposition had to wage a struggle in Parliament to bring a motion to reverse this. When the motion was finally heard in December, it was defeated by the government’s one-seat majority. It should be remembered that the media, having leaked the fact that the government was embarking on increasing the salaries of the President, VPs and Ministers, Minister Trotman, on behalf of the government, denied that the government was contemplating any salary increases for the Ministers. This was also denied during the debate on the 2015 Budget in August 2015. Having gone into recess mid-September, the government stealthily published Order No. 6 of 2015 in the Official Gazette, dated September 25th, 2015, increasing their salaries and making it retroactive to July 1, 2015. Contrast this act with the government’s refusal to increase the salaries of the public servants in accordance with their campaign promises. 7. Durban Park Develop-

ment Project for the Jubilee celebrations - The govern-

ment has refused to provide information on the “private company,” which was in charge of the preparations of the Durban Park prior to the Minister of Public Infrastructure “take over” of the project on the orders of the President. It is estimated that the costs, when finally exposed, will be close to $1Billion - for a one-day event. 8. The President pardoned

over 100 convicted felons in 2015 and stated that this would be done annually. He promised that these would be felons with non-violent crimes and juvenile offenders. In fact, this was not true. A number of these persons had been sentenced for violent crimes and a number of them are back in prison. 9. The Rudisa case at the

CCJ and the pay out to Rudisa - The APNU and AFC twice caused the defeat in the 10th Parliament of attempts by the PPPC government to amend the Customs Act in order to pre-empt the case going to the CCJ and save the country millions of US dollars. The APNU+AFC Coalition government settled to repay the entire amount of the Rudisa USD$16M claim without any negotiations for a debt repayment schedule and despite the fact that the company owed and appears to still owe millions of dollars in taxes to Guyana. The first payment was made late last year and the second budgeted for in the 2016 Budget. 10. Hundreds of millions of

dollars spent by the Government and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council on the “Clean Up Campaign” in the city with no public tendering and handpicked companies. In some cases, new companies were created with no experience to facilitate this corruption. There has been no accountability of the amount of monies spent and the Mayor and Town Clerk have rebuffed efforts to allow the Auditor General’s office to do a forensic audit. 11. The write off of debts

owed to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA)

and the nation by DDL worth billions of dollars (April 2016). If DDL had not issued a press release announcing the write off, this would not have been known. 12. Other write-off of debts

by the GRA for other companies who financed the APNU+AFC Coalition electoral campaign, worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Minister Trotman said these companies have to be compensated for their financial investment. 13. Following the March

18, 2016 Local Government Elections, Minister Bulkan in violation of the statutes governing the local government system, appointed the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and the 5 Chairpersons and vice chairperson of the 5 NDCs in the 6 tied LAAs. All of these persons were APNU, although there was a plurality of votes in 3 of the 6 tied LAAs for the PPP and 3 for the APNU+AFC. 14. Write-offs by the

APNU+AFC dominated Georgetown Municipal Council to many companies for millions of dollars owed in rates and taxes for undisclosed amounts. This is a City Council that is now cash-strapped and cannot pay contractors for garbage collection nor timely payment of salaries of its employees. The cost to the Treasury of these write offs by the GRA, the Georgetown City Council and other Local Authority Areas alone earmarked in this list of scandals is estimated to be between 23% to 36 % of the total 2016 Budget. 15. Parking meters contract

- with no public tendering, no involvement of the Georgetown City Council, no consultation with the citizens – the scandal deepens, even as the APNU+AFC Georgetown Mayor is being advised to do some damage control by attempting to amend the 49-year contract and make it less embarrassing for the government. 16. The three-year Phar-

macy Bond contract between the Ministry of Pub-

lic Health and the Linden Holding Company was not tendered for by Minister Dr Norton’s own admission on the floor of the National Assembly. The PPP/C will be submitting its motion of privilege, calling for the Speaker to send the Minister of Public Health to the Privilege Committee for wilfully misleading the National Assembly and the nation. 17. The GoG/BK Interna-

tional settlement of $1.17 B for Haags Bosche - The Ministry of Communities’ settlement of $1.17B to BK International for the Haags Bosche project came to light as a result of a Supplementary Financial Paper on August 8th where the country learnt that this settlement was made and would be paid in three tranches, even though the court did not award costs to BK Int’l. The government paid BK Int’l the first third of the payment in January 2016, which begs the question where did this money come from? It was not provided for in the 2015 budget, nor was there any SFP in the interim nor in the 2016 Budget or since to cover this first payment of G$500M. The August Supplementary Financial Paper covers the payment of the second tranche of $501M to BK int’l from the Consolidated Fund. The third payment the Minister stated would be reflected in the 2017 budget. This is a scandal like the RUDISA and the DDL write offs. Interesting and of note is that BK International is being paid the entire $10M USD for the contract though BK Int’l only worked for 3 of the 5 years of the contract at substandard work. The PPP/C government had terminated the contract due to substandard work and delays. Ministers Bulkan and Patterson late 2015 both publicly stated that BK Int’l had done substandard work on the project! 18. Two fuel scandals relat-

ing to the issuance of fuel licenses for the importation of fuel to companies that are made up of persons related to top officials or who are

top officials themselves in the government, who have no fuel bonds, no storage facilities and no offices. The withdrawal of the fuel importation license to the Chinese company, which has invested millions of US dollars for storage facilities, appears to have been calculated to make room for these alternative importers. In August the second set of fuel licenses came to light regarding licenses issued to Dr. Van West Charles, CEO and other officials in GWI under a private company. It should be noted that an applicant for a fuel license has to acquire an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and 4 additional licences - provision of a bond under detailed specifications, transportation, storage, importation, and restrictions on where fuel storage can be located. It normally takes a long time for an applicant to obtain all these licenses---impossible to do so in 9 months. The licenses were issued in the month that Van West Charles became CEO GWI and, therefore, he had ample time to remove himself from the company. At a parliamentary opposition weekly press briefing several months ago, this gentlemen’s role in soliciting donations for pipes for the wells in Region 9 was exposed. It was reported that the Brazilian contractors hired by GWI to dig 8 wells in the Rupununi region were unable to pay their workers as they allege that GWI is not paying them (the contractors). 19. Consistent and frequent

violation of the Procurement Act by line ministries - e.g, the Minister of Agriculture admitted that the MOA nor the NDIA had gone out to tender for works totalling $234M due to emergency works for El Nino and flooding in regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10. In fact, these monies should have been provided for in the SPF # 2 of 2016 for the Consolidated Fund. 20. Requests for informa-

tion during questions to Ministers and questions during the debate on the (Turn to page 11)

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Coalition gov’t has racked up 50... 2 SFPs on August 8th revealed that the govt ministers’ will not release contracts unless they have the permission of the other person/company/party to the contract. This is unheard of and a violation of the role of the legislature under the constitution to hold the government accountable. 21. Undermining the judi-

cial process- the establishment of a Presidential Tribunal to inquire, investigate and recommend whether Carvil Duncan, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, should be removed from office for inability to discharge his duties. Since the charges against Mr Duncan are still pending before a Magistrate of the Georgetown Magistrate’s court, the establishment of this tribunal is premature, pre-emptive and repugnant to the very “due process” to which the President says that his Administration is committed. (matter still in court; AG –Justice Holder confrontation; interference and bullying judiciary). 22. Auditor General’s spe-

cial audit of GECOM expenditure in 2015 prior to the general and regional elections—this is on-going, with the use of sole sourcing by the GECOM estimated to amount to $700M in the months prior to the May 2015 elections. However, unlike other investigations where the heads were sent on administrative leave such as the Head of NICIL, Head of the NDIA, PS of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, head of the Public Hospital Georgetown, to name a few, this CEO has not been sent off on administrative leave.(silence on findings). 23. $240M spent on refur-

bishing the Kitty Market. Photographic evidence exposes the corruption by City Hall. There are no scope of works, estimates, etc that is available and the project was not put to tender as the city has hired the workers and is implementing the works itself. (still not complete). 24. The awarding of the

contract for boxed juices for the school feeding programme to a Surinamese beverage company owned

by RUDISA that was not the lowest or even the second lowest bid. The impact on the local farmers and manufacturers will be felt. DDL has come out publicly to criticise this, so too, has another company Guyana Beverages. 25. Award of the contract

for quarry stone to a Surinamese company for the CJIA will have tremendous impact on the local quarries. Toolsie Persaud, one of the stone producers, has protested. There is more to come to light on this issue and this we have earmarked an emerging scandal where government needs to provide answers. The discriminatory dismissals of hundreds of employers in the public service and in the state entities on the basis of their ethnic and assumed political affiliation which started in June 2015 is continuing unabated. 26. Chicken importation li-

cences have been granted to non-existent/ non registered companies. 27. Some $1.64B was spent

regionally on health, plus an additional added $2.5B that was spent on pharmaceuticals and medical supplies at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) without tender – a massive total $4.17B that was spent by the Coalition Government in breach of the procurement rules. 28. The D’urban Park saga

continues. Mired in controversy, millions more are being spent in preparation for the flag raising ceremony to mark Independence. 29. Not satisfied with the

huge increases in salary and benefits, some Ministers are greedy and the reports of paying off Ministers for licenses, contracts etc., is astounding. The government has got into the habit of putting out tenders in the press and then cancelling them repeatedly until their chosen contractor wins the tender. 30. These scandals, which

have been uncovered expose a level of corruption and discrimination that has not been seen since the Burnham era. The APNU+AFC govern-

ment lacks transparency and accountability, and is prepared to undermine and even violate the procurement and financial laws of this country, as well as other constitutional provisions and statutory provisions. 31. Chicken importation licenses to non-existent/ non-registered companies as well as another company in the name of the CEO, GWI, Van West Charles. 32. The Removal of 6,000 solar panels purchased for the Hinterland Household Electrification Programme and re-allocating them for use at the Ministry of the Presidency and State House. 33. The Wind Farm project being done by Lloyd Singh, an AFC financier. Minister Trotman has said that it is “payback time for one of their election financiers”. 34. Antinfek in drinking water purchased by GWI without tender and without warnings of the health hazard by a CEO who was employed for years by the PAHO. Only after questioning by the Opposition in the National Assembly has the government provided minimum disclosure. 35. Contract for GPL Prepaid meters, awarded after 3 re-tenders to a contractor whose bid was the highest of all bids; in fact, $ 1 B more than engineers’ estimate. 36. Contract for the Water treatment plants- tenders cancelled twice before finally being awarded to their preferred contractor, who was higher than the other tenders. 37. Tendering for the GOG/ IDB Sheriff St road project was repeatedly done and no awards made until we lost that part of the IDB loan of $20M USD while at the same time paying penalty fees. 38. Procurement of drugs and medical supplies, in breach of procurement laws. 39. Consistent and on-going violations of the Procurement Act, financial rules and the Fiscal Management and Enactment Act are pervasive. The most recent ex-

(From page 10)

amples were exposed during the August 3, 2017 debate with regard to funds for the State Assets Recovery Agency and constitutional bodies including the Public Procurement Commission and the Public Service Appellate Tribunal. 40. The on-going saga of the Durban Jubilee Park. It is estimated that expenditure has reached $1.5 B. Auditor General Deodat Sharma aims to wrap up his special audit into the controversial Durban Park Project before the end of the year even if he does not receive certain financial records which appear to be missing. 41. Bribery at the highest levels –not satisfied with the huge increases in salary and benefits, some Ministers are greedy and the reports of paying off Ministers is astounding for simple licenses, contracts, taxes owed, etc. 42. Contract for CCTV cameras for the Ministry of the Presidency- not delivered and paid for since 2015. The company has been declared bankrupt. So where is the taxpayers’ money? 43. Purchase of the Prime Minister’s SUV- bullet proof, latest model, extraordinary extravagance for a poor developing country. Noticeable is the acquisition of a fleet of new vehicles for every Minister yet many have not been budgeted for in the annual budgets. 44. Secret COI targeting constitutional rights commissions, in particular the Public Service Commission and the Ethnic Relations Commission. This is a form of intimidation. No report available. 45. President’s instruction to the Police Service Commission to halt police promotions in contravention of the constitution. 46. The COI into the Police with regard to the way it investigated the intention or plot to assassinate the President. The real plot behind this move appears to be the decapitation of the Guyana Police Force

leadership. The President’s instruction to the Police Service Commission to halt these promotions appears to give credence to this theory. 47. The Georgetown Prison Camp Street Jailbreak and fire on July 9, 2017 and the Lusignan escapees coming after the March 2016 riots and fire that lead to 17 inmates being burnt to death. The COI of the March 2016 prison disturbances and fire has been kept secret but more evidence coming to light indicate that the government did not act on those recommendations, including the establishment of a multi-agency multi-sectoral body being appointed by the President to implement the recommendations. Budgetary allocations for the Prisons, especially capital works to increase the inmate accommodation at the Mazaruni Prison in the 2016 budget was unspent and rolled over to 2017 and as of July 2017 these works are still not complete. The new request for $753M appropriated in Parliament on August 3 2017 cannot account for $ 153 M requested. 48. The Amendments to the Broadcasting Act passed in the National Assembly by the one seat majority government are an infringement on the freedom of expression and freedom of the press. Despite public appeals to the President by reputable international organizations such as Reporters without Borders and the International Press Institute as well as denunciations by the Guyana Press Association, private sector, broadcasters, civil society, and the Parliamentary Opposition, the President as of August 17, 2017 denied requests to defer his assent and hold consultations. 49. The Commission of Inquiry into Lands – communal, joint and individual lands and any other lands – with specific focus on Amerindian land titling and land of Freed Africans. There was no prior consultation with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) or any Amerindian communities on the establishment of this COI. The NTC, five Amerindian

non-governmental organizations and the Parliamentary opposition protested the appointment of this COI as it threatened Amerindian land rights which are enshrined in the constitution and in the Amerindian Act. The Parliamentary Opposition brought a motion in parliament calling on the President to revoke the COI or at least the component which is treating with Amerindian land titling which was defeated by the government’s one seat majority. The government 4 months after it established the COI held its first consultation with the NTC. This COI is a recipe to drive rifts and strife between different ethnic groups in the country. 50. Repossession of lease and transported lands and property - the revocation of 30 MMA farmers leases by the President, the Central Housing and Planning Authority ( CHPA) repossession of transported houses and land and its CEO’s recent renewed threats to take away land from private developers are all unconstitutional. The judiciary in early August 2017 ruled that the President’s revocation of the leases of the farmers in the MMA was unconstitutional. In another instance the court issued a conservatory order to prevent the government from seizing and taking possession of the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre until case is properly heard. 51. Rental of residences for Ministers- $500,000 each to 2 junior Ministers and one Minister $ 1.5 M. This has been exposed in detail in the media and by members of civil society and the Parliamentary Opposition. 52. The appointment of the Chairman of the GECOM in violation of the constitution and the ruling of the Chief Justice. 53. US$18MMUSD signing bonus from ExxonMobil placed outside of the Consolidated Fund. 54. Painting state properties in APNU colours. 55. Reduction of constitutional bodies budgets 2016, 2017, 2018 in violation of the 2015 amendment to FMA Act

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Significant progress made under succe administrations to improve welfare of LEGISLATION

The Amerindian Act 2006 is an embodiment of policies that cover the protection of the general welfare and rights of Indigenous Peoples. It affirms the declaration of rights of indigenous peoples in specific stipulations that include governance, land rights and preservation, and Amerindian heritage. Passed a year before the UN-DRIP declaration, Guyana’s 2006 Amerindian Act includes key provisions relating to Amerindian people that are not dissimilar, in most instances, from those outlined in the declaration, and has thus been the legal stronghold for Amerindian development. TOURISM SUPPORT

In 2012, the Ministry financed eco-tourism projects for 19 Villages, each receiving utmost $1.5M. In 2013, twenty villages will be receiving grants at $1.5M each to the eco-tourism industry in their respective regions. The initial implementation of the first 27 Community Development Plans (CDPs) funded through the GRIF, 11 % account for projects that are related to ecotourism. HEALTH

The Amerindian Hostel data on inpatients reflect access to medical services at Georgetown Public Hospital thereby reducing further aggravation of health situations of Hinterland patients and providing better access to quality health services; safe and adequate accommodation for patients and welfare cases help ensure the psychological health and general well-being of those that are affected by sickness and other social issues. The fact that all villages have a health hut/health centre makes access to primary health care easier in villages and thus improving health conditions of villagers. Amerindian Residence accommodated a total of 7017 patients with their accompanying relatives up to 2014. The Residence provides a shelter for those patients who have been referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for medical attention. Over the years, the purpose of this facility had evolved such that the most significant proportion of persons being accommodated is patients and those accompanying them. The Residence has also expanded its services to encompass persons in difficult situations including Domestic Violence, Trafficking in Persons, labour issues, discharged prisoners or any other similar situation. The Maternity waiting room at the Amerindian Hostel was constructed at a cost of $1.2M. The aim of the new facility is in keeping with Government’s commitment to ensure the safety of mothers and their babies and to ensure that every mother and child have access to adequate health care and provided with the best care and treatment. SOLAR PANEL AND ENERGY ACCESS

A total of 11, 000 solar panels were installed across all the regions. A mini-hydro power plant is about to be constructed in Cheung Mouth River to supply renewable energy to Region 8 villages. An additional 6000 solar panels are being procured for distribution to additional communities including some riverine communities CORE HOMES/HOME SUBSIDIES

A sum of $107.2M was spent on home improvement and 127 Core home were completed in the hinterlands

GOVERNANCE

Every year since the passing of the Amerindian Act, MoAA hosted the Annual National Toshaos Council Meeting (with an average budget of $50 M) to build capacity on: • Best practices in governance that includes transparency and accountability (audits); • Improved leadership for Toshaos and Village Councils in accordance to the Amerindian Act 2006; • Improved Community Management geared towards a holistic approach in Community Development; • Promoting dialog with government officials for the advancement of Amerindian welfare and total development of Amerindian villages; • Providing an opportunity for All Amerindian elected leaders to be able to have dialogue and exchanges on development priorities which challenges them; and • To provide a platform for the Amerindian Leaders have direct access to Government Ministers to dialogue on development challenges in various sectors and finding solutions ADF-GRIF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLANS

A total of 187 Amerindian Villages and Communities were considered for economic projects under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) - Guyana REDD+Investment Fund (GRIF). Some US$6.3M from GRIF is allotted for said projects under the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). Twenty- Seven (27) projects from across all regions have been chosen for the initial implementation of the project which has commenced early part of 2013 with a budget of US$1.8M. Sixty-seven percent (67%) of all the projects are in agriculture with the aim of securing Amerindian livelihoods. ADF Project Management Unit were up and running to facilitate full implementation of 160 CDPs. CULTURE

The preservation and promotion of Amerindian heritage is germane to Amerindian’s identity. The cultural activities have been the media for Amerindian culture to be accepted and understood by other groups in Guyana, at the same time, an avenue for all Amerindians to celebrate their heritage and embrace their indigenous roots and identity. By continuing to protect Amerindian culture, Amerindians are able to understand the significance of their dances, languages, practices, local knowledge, cuisine, crafts, songs, and literature to the total development of their villages. The government is cognizant of the fact that culture is one of the pillars of sustainable development, and without it, and then development is not fully achieved. Some $25M was spent on average annually in for Amerindian Heritage Celebrations to promote traditions, values, literature , dances of Amerindians. Another $6M was spent annually for other cultural activities The Initiatives include: Arawak Revival Language Project launched in Capoey; Support to Cultural Expo (North Pakaraimas) - $5M; and Support to cultural groups of Aisalton ($1.4M) and Santa Rosa ($7M) OTHER INVESTMENTS

• Mining including gold, diamond, various metals, bauxite • Forestry • Agriculture • Information Communication and Technology- 99 hubs were completed by 2014 to accommodate the computers 20 in number to commence the computer literacy training of youths, women and residents including children.

LAND OWNERSHIP

Prior to 1992, 74 communities were titled. Since, then 24 more villages were granted titles, thereby bringing the total of titled villages to 98, seventy-seven of which had been demarcated. Six (6) titles were to be approved prior to May 2015 and seven (7) extension were investigated and in preparation for approval While Indigenous people in many Countries have right of use of the Land only, in Guyana where the Indigenous People account for approximately 9.7% of the population, Amerindians own land, including the forests resources within their Titled Lands. YOUTH DEVELOPMENT/SUPPORT

The MoAA has launched the Youth Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP) aimed to train young Amerindians while employing them at the same time and become powerful partners in development. Some $200M was spent on YEAP in 2013. Focus was placed on developing 2,000 Community Support Officers (CSOs) participate productively in Education, Health, and Social Welfare, Community Development, Culture, ICT, Infrastructure and small business. The CSOs received training in various areas, including: • Management of Photovoltaic System • Management of Basic ICT hardware • Governance & Amerindian Act • Youth Voices for Climate Change (Sponsored by the US Embassy/Caribbean Development Bank educate youths on the importance of Climate Change and its impact in the Caribbean) • Business & Sustainable Development • Various aspect of the Community Development Project training The Youth Apprenticeship Programme was aimed at training young Amerindians while employing them at the same time is a medium to empower the young as partners in national development. These youths will be our partners in the implementation of CDPs and other socio-economic activities that are taking place in the villages now. The inclusion of the young in gearing their villages towards progress by letting them participate productively in technical, mechanical, computer, and agricultural activities will definitely enhance the capacity of the villages’ human resources. AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT

Tractors, farm implements, fertilizers, acoushi ant bait, irrigation systems, and other infrastructures provided for villages every year An average of $50M per year was given in agricultural support for various villages through the years COMMUNICATION

Computer Accessibility through 100 computer hubs commenced in 2013. Some $287.7M was allotted for solar systems for ICT hubs; and 57,000 person-beneficiaries. As at 2014: 72 of these hubs are completed;9 hubs near completion and the HUBs were constructed into Regions of 1, 7, 8 and 9. All villages now have radio sets for fast communication, each one costs $500,000 Telecommunication facilities built in Mabaruma, Port Kaituma, Red Hill, Morucca, Aishalton, Annai, Lethem, Ominaik, and Mahdia, thus improving communication in the hinterlands!

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

essive PPP/C Amerindians AMERINDIAN LAND TITLING PROJECT (ALT)

In 2010, MoAA together with UNDP and the Office of the President initiated a Land titling Project that sought to process applications for titling and demarcation. When it started, some 13 new communities were considered for titling, 32 applications for extension of land were made; and 33 Villages were demarcated. Some US$10.75 was been allotted for the project under the LCDS-GRIF. A Project Management Unit was established in June 2014 to facilitate the implementation of the project. Under the APNU+AFC Government, the Unit was disbanded. Government of Guyana has also allotted $77.9M in its 2013 national budget for this purpose. This means that 89% of eligible villages have thus far been titled, and only 11% remains to be titled by 2015. TRANSPORTATION

The PPP/C government consistently allocated funds for Land and Water Transport to improve transportation services in villages, and thus improving Access to hospitals and health centers and posts. Boats, outboard engines, ATVs, Mini-buses, Pick-ups, Motorcycles have been provided to almost all the villages through the years; and more. PRESIDENTIAL GRANTS

From the year 2007 to 2013, the Government of Guyana invested $1,172,000,000 to 189 Amerindian communities for Economic, Agriculture, Tourism, Infrastructure, Transportation, and Social Projects. In 2012 and 2013 alone $M359, 800,000 was allotted for this program to 189 Amerindian Communities. In 2014, 200M is allotted for this project, and 28 villages have thus far received their grant. EDUCATION

Access to Primary Education was advanced and 100 % of villages have primary schools Better access to secondary education was pushed and through 14 secondary schools in the hinterland were set up. Under the Hinterland Scholarship Programme sixty two (62) students were awarded Hinterland Scholarships in 2014. In 2013, 430 total students are in the roll which is an 18% increase from the total of 362 students in 2012. An average of 50 Hinterland students per year for the past decade is added to the list of grantees. Some $94.5M spent for Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, with state of the art facilities, was home to an average of 90 students per year . All secondary schools have dormitories. The cost per student per year in the Dormitory is $994,780; (inclusive of transportation and allowances). The Cost per student living with Guardians in the Interior is $214,000 per year. For those living in Dormitories in the region including President’s College is $99,000 per year. School Uniform Distribution commenced in 2007 to increase school attendance in hinterland areas by ensuring students have the necessary uniforms. The programme benefitted 30,000 hinterland students from Regions 1, 7, 8, and 9.

Granger still to return 6,000 solar panels taken from Amerindian communities

tudents in the hinterland who are studying need “proper” light (electricity), according to President David Granger. However, he contends that a solar panel will not solve the need of many hinterland communities for steady electricity supply. “Giving them a little panel (solar panel) is not going to solve it,” he said, without saying what solution will be advanced. The President’s comments come after his Government came under fire for taking some 6,000 solar panels that were purchased for several Amerindian communities. The panels will be used at the Ministry of the Presidency and State House. Recently, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira, charged that the

panels should be handed over to the communities and not used at the office of the President and State House, as announced by the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government.

“Hand over the 6,000 solar panel and install them where they should be,” Teixeira declared at news conference. The disclosure that the solar panels will not go the Amerindian communities was made when the PPP/C, in the National Assembly, questioned the spending of $48.6M on furniture and equipment for the Ministry of the Presidency and State House. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, in response, disclosed that part of the $48.6M was spent on 6,000 solar panel systems for the Ministry of the Presidency and State House. Teixeira, then, had questioned the fact that 6,000 panels were intended for Amerindian communities. No clear response was given again. She also asked where the panels were installed.

Harmon, in response, said, “These are within the care and custody of the Ministry of the Presidency.” Harmon was also asked when other Guyanese will benefit from solar panel systems, given his Government’s push for a green economy. He declined to address this issue. A vote was soon after called by House Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland, and a government-majority vote resulted in the approval of the monies already spent. The monies were spent between September 1, 2015 and December 31, 2015. Notably, while Granger charged that his Government wants to see hinterland development advanced on par with that of coastland communities, he did not expound on how this will be done.

APNU+AFC refusing to trace assets abroad because it would be ‘totally embarrassed’ – Jagdeo T he call for an international firm to be engaged to investigate what assets are held, specifically abroad, by past and current government officials was repeated again this week, by PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo. Given the APNU+AFC government’s refusal to have this done, Jagdeo charged that the findings of such an investigation would implicate several government officials, hence the refusal. “They will be totally embarrassed by the findings,” he said. He noted that once an

investigation is done, the report must be presented to Guyana. “Granger cannot absolve himself from all of these things. He is ultimately responsible,” Jagdeo said, noting that corruption levels in all government ministries have not gone unnoticed. The call has been repeated by former President and current Opposition Leader, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, for more than two years now. Jagdeo had also stated that engaging an international firm will put an end to the claims being spouted by the Coalition government and remove the ‘cover’ being used to target political oppo-

nents. “They are targeting opposition people and private individuals only, what about government officials?” he had asked. The Opposition Leader added, “…we are prepared to do this, ask them if they are prepared to do this; to go with us jointly and make a request of anybody, if not Interpol, an investigative firm, together to look at all of the holdings of everyone.” Government has not responded to his call. However, it has moved ahead to pass, by government majority, a law to empower what is now the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) – an agen-

cy whose powers have been widely criticised by civil society, including the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA). The involvement of the Special Organised Crimes Unit (SOCU) in the arrests of several top Opposition members has also drawn criticisms, specifically given that SOCU was established as part of Guyana's international obligations to strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) apparatus. It was established as a Unit within the Guyana Police Force.

Gov’t has no sensible approach to building new Demerara River Bridge – Jagdeo T he new Demerara River bridge “is on” for 2018, according to Public Infrastructure Minister, David Patterson, despite the fact that there is no budgetary provision for the project in Budget 2018. Patterson contends that his government will seek a supplementary provision to fund the bridge if necessary, but Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, contends that this is impossible, since there was no initial provision in the first place. “How can you get a supplementary, and addition, to something that was never budgeted?” he questioned. Patterson, in further addressing the approach to fi-

nancing the project, stated that the aim is to have at least three contractors who would provide proposals either to fund the bridge directly or to have a public/private partnership with the government. This comment, according to Jagdeo, is nonsensical, since it is clear that the government has no clear approach on how it will go about dealing with the construction of a new bridge. The Opposition Leader pointed to the former PPP/C government’s approach to dealing with the Berbice River Bridge and explained that a public-private partnership was decided on first, then moves were made to deal with advancing the

project along this line. Notably, Patterson said, “We (the government) would like to do prudent financing, when we would have finished assessing in the next quarter or two and the contractors have arrived at a certain amount, we will know the extent of financing we will need, if any, on the part of the government and we will be going to approach the assembly for supplementary, that will be by June this year.” However, Jagdeo charged that name-dropping terms like ‘prudent financing’ do not hide the fact that the government has no sensible approach to constructing a new bridge.

The Opposition Leader added that the PPP/C will only support a new bridge once certain conditions are met. “We will not support any bridge that will have to open again. We will support a high-level bridge that is fixed and has no opening. Once it is transparently pursued we will support it,” Jagdeo said, regarding the position of the Parliamentary Opposition. It is unclear what moves will be made by the government to address the way forward for a new Demerara River bridge – the procurement process for a feasibility study and for contractors, already tainted with criticism of corruption.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Cheddi Jagan - The Intellectual I

n my previous article, I referred to some of the factors that shaped the political and ideological outlook of Dr Cheddi Jagan, whose life and works are being celebrated this month. I made the point that Dr Jagan’s “world view” was influenced by a constellation of factors, which included his early years in the sugar plantation, where he saw firsthand the inhumane and degrading conditions in which the sugar workers lived on the estates. According to Dr Jagan, there existed ‘two worlds’ on the plantation - the ‘world’ of the rich and powerful and the poor, and the world of the poor and downtrodden. Other factors which impacted on his consciousness were his experiences in the United States of America during his years as a student of dentistry. Dr Jagan saw and experienced for himself the exploitative and discriminatory character of the capitalist system, especially with respect to minority groups. He successfully demystified and ‘deglamourized’ life in the United States, which is often projected as the ‘land of plenty,’ where there existed as he puts it, “two chickens

in every pot and a car in every garbage.” America is undoubtedly a rich country, but the riches are highly stewed in favour of a handful of Americans, while the vast majority of people has to contend, as it were, with the ‘crumbs that fall from the master’s table,’ especially the Blacks and the coloured, who were pushed to the bottom of the social ladder due to an unjust reward system. Another important factor that influenced the thinking of Dr Jagan was his exposure to the literature of radical thinkers such as Marx, Engel’s and Lenin who provided him with a theoretical basis on the class character of the capitalist system which was inherently exploitative and anti-worker. These, along with other developments, such as the independence struggles of India and other developing countries fired his imagination and strengthened his resolve to become not simply an ‘armchair’ intellectual, but an active participant in the change process. Dr Jagan was possessed with extraordinary powers of intellect and reasoning. He was able to correctly define

undercurrents to which these countries were subjected to. Dr Jagan was a strong advocate for debt relief and a New Global Human Order, one that puts people at the centre of developmental activities. Unlike some pseudo- academics that hide under the clock of academia, Dr Jagan’s writings reflect profundity and depth of analysis, which suggested workable prescriptions on this way forward. This is a quite unlike “intellectuals” whose only claim to academia is to churn out useless articles based on gossips, lies and halfDr Cheddi Jagan interacting with a roadside vendor in the late 1990s truths. Some of them have global trends and understood British Guiana and to desta- Dr. Jagan demonstrated by no credible publications to the dialectics of change and bilize the PPP administration, way of hard facts and figures their names and their research development. He was utterly with the active collaboration how ‘aid with strings’ was profiles are at best minimal. convinced that the current of local reactionary forces resulting in a net outflow of The University of Guyana is system of capitalistic produc- that included at that time the resources out of the region basically research-oriented tion relations could not solve PNC and the United Force to the major industrialized and to the extent this is lackthe problems of humanity along with a section of the countries, in particular the ing the university is operating United States of America. In sub-optimally and to an exand could only lead to greater labor movement. In his other works, such order to liberate themselves, tent is failing to live up to its impoverishment and human as the “Caribbean Revo- come out of this vicious cycle mandate as a major catalyst degradation. Dr Jagan was the author lution: Whose Backyard?” of debt accumulation and for change and development. And for those who conto several scholarly publi- he showed how the current balance of payments diffiveniently may wish to forcations, which included the models of development based culties, developing countries get, it was Dr. Jagan who ‘West on Trail,’ in which he on unbridled capitalism and were forced by circumstances exposed the intrigues of An- uncontrolled market forces to borrow money, which established the University of glo-American vested interests were leading to the underde- in turn led to unsustainable Guyana from, which many to deny political indepen- velopment of Caribbean and debt burdens, not to mention of the ‘critics’ graduated and dence to the then colony of Latin American countries. the political and ideological currently work.

APNU+AFC fails on promise Contract with controversial to release other oil contracts ‘drug bond’ still not scrapped

espite promises to ensure that all other oil contracts will be revealed, the APNU+AFC Coalition Government has instead ensured another failed promise. At a press conference on January 25, last, at his Brickdam Office, Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman. promised that at least two of the contracts would have been released by the end of January. It is now February and no other contract has since been made public. Trotman had previously stated that the website developed by the Government to publish its contract with ExxonMobil will be used to disclose the others. No reason has been given for this latest failure. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil is on record saying that it

wants a level playing field to be created and thinks that all other contract should be published. The ExxonMobil contracts was released last year and, when reviewed, had exposed a number of issues that has resulted in strong criticisms from civil society. In addition to ExxonMobil and its joint venture partners Hess and CNOOC Nexen, oil companies operating concessions in Guyana include: Canadian-based CGX Energy Inc., Repsol, Tullow Oil, Eco Atlantic, JHI Associates Inc. and Ratio Oil Exploration. Total also recently joined the local industry. Notably, the publication, titled ‘Past the Tipping Point’, published earlier this year by the Natural Resource

Governance Institute and written by Don Hubert and Rob Pitman, concluded that it is becoming increasingly normal for member countries of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) to disclose the contracts and licences that lay out the terms for resource exploitation. According to the publication, ‘Past the Tipping Point’, there are twenty countries which have no legal obligation to disclose and that do not disclose. Among those are Norway, Germany and Trinidad and Tobago. Also, in total, of the 51 countries covered by the review, 29 disclose at least some of these agreements, while several more are taking concrete steps to join their ranks.

fter promising that the contract with the controversial Sussex Street ‘drug bond’ would be terminated, it is unclear whether any moves have been made towards having this done. Some $12.5M in monthly rental ($150M annually) was budgeted for the continued rental of the controversial Sussex Street ‘drug bond’ for another full year in Budget 2018. Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, during the budget debates, when asked, confirmed that the drug bond rental deal will be in effect for another 12 months. Lawrence also said, “It is our intention to end the contract on December 31. As we speak right now, it seems as though we may go over to another two or three

months…it seems that it (the end of the contract) will not happen within the next two to three weeks.” The controversial ‘drug bond’ property is located at 29 Sussex Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, and the contract is for three years. The proprietor is a prominent member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Lawrence Singh. The PNCR is the majority partner in the current Coalition Government. Investigations turned up a private residence, unfit for the storage for pharmaceuticals and medication. On those grounds, the political Opposition called for the contract to be scrapped. When the contract was finally released, after pressure from the political Op-

position, it showed that Government was renting a professional office, not a storage bond for pharmaceuticals. The scandal surrounding the ‘drug storage bond’ came up after some $87.5M for the bond came up for debate and approval in the National Assembly on August 8 - $25M having already been spent as a security deposit and $12.5M earmarked for rent from August to December 2016. Former Health Minister, Dr George Norton, has since been sent to a Parliamentary Privileges Committee for misinforming and misleading the National Assembly on the controversial ‘drug bond’ debacle after moves for the same were advanced by the political Opposition.

STRAIGHT TALK 15

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

(This speech was first made public on May 1, 1988. Its re-printing is among several activities being undertaken during 2018 to mark the 100th birth anniversary – March 22, 2018 – of the founder of the People’s Progressive Party, Dr Cheddi Jagan.)

The PNC and its ‘Get rich quick syndrome’ By Dr. Cheddi Jagan

“I

ndiscipline is bedeviling us. Our workers' will to produce has been seriously impaired. Malingering is rampant. There are too many 'make-believe' situations while vital areas remain badly in need of workers. Too many of our skilled workers and managers, trained at our expense have migrated. Corruption is eating, like cancer into the sinews of our society. Black-marketing, smuggling and open peddling of contraband goods are afflicting us. The disease calls for drastic cure." The Chief Government spokesman had apparently forgotten the above editorial comment of the New-Nation (14 February 1982), the organ of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC). He was charging in a National Assembly debate that the Integrity Committee had not condemned the government but was only making recommendations for future action. MORAL RUIN

The Committee's Report was very explicit. And members of the opposition People's Progressive Party said that it fully vindicated its criticisms of the PNC

for over a decade. It was, they charged, an indictment against the PNC which has brought Guyana to economic, social and now confirmed moral ruin. The Integrity Committee referred to "a get-rich quick syndrome" and "bribery and corruption has reached if not, almost, epidemic proportions” and noted that a “number of public officers seem to think that the public funds are theirs for the taking.” Hitting out against racial and political discrimination, the Commission observed that "selection and promotion on merit are sacrificed on the altar of political partisanship, party loyalty, nepotism and personal friendship". As regards sexual harassment, the Report stated: "We have formed the impression from the evidence generally that as regards sexual gratification, public office holders show particular favour to those who submit to their urge to be sexually gratified". In its concluding remarks, the Integrity Commission observed: "Guyana needs a new moral vitality. A fresh flow of values must now be infused into the life stream of society…indiscipline, inattention, discourtesy…fraud and other corrupt, immoral

and dishonest acts - the cumulative effect of all these social ills which are so manifest in public sector bodies, seriously hinders progress." BRIBERY AND FAVOURITISM

In my remarks during the debate, I called for urgent action. Way back in 1969, I said, the Archbishop of the West Indies and Guyana Dr. Alan John Knight had called for a real cleanup of the society. ."For example", he had charged, "bribery and corruption in all forms are prevalent. Money in the hands of the unscrupulous can outbid social justice at every level. It is amazing to see what $5,000 can do! And much more modest sums can secure appointment for the less qualified; make files and

Coalition gov’t claims over 3,000 trained, silent on providing jobs for Indigenous youths

ome 1,872 Indigenous youths received training through the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, in a number of skilled areas. Another 1,958 youths are nearing completion of their training, making it a total of 3,830 trained over a two-year period, according to Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock. However, the Coalition government remains silent on job creation initiatives for the hinterland regions.

Economic activity in the hinterland communities have been on the decline, while commodity prices have been on the increase. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, insists that the PPP/C and the Amerindian peoples are not interested in rhetoric from the Coalition government, which continues to speak about its ‘love’ for Amerindians. According to Jagdeo, the current administration “has

a lot of ministers who do very little during the day” and are not taking the necessary steps to address the hardships in the hinterland. “Look at the callous disregard they had for the Amerindian People,” he lamented. The Opposition Leader maintains that funding is available and the Government must, instead of dragging its feet, accelerate the process to ensure sustainable prosperity for hinterland communities.

records conveniently disappear, miraculously reduce amounts due in tax, secure contracts, evade penalties and secure privileges". I referred also to the statement of the President; of the Police Federation, Joe Braz. Giving evidence before the Collins Commission on July 27, 1968 he had charged that favoritism was rampant in the promotion system in the police force. He had declared: "The merit principle is seldom applied. Many men have belittled and degraded themselves in order to find favour with an officer in the hope that they would be recommended for promotion... there have even been Cases where men who have been before the court on charges touching on their integrity and honesty, have been favoured when neither characteristic could recommend them." OMBUDSMAN AND PROMISED CODE OF CONDUCT

In 1971 after two ministers had been brought before the Ombudsman on corrup-

tion charges, Prime Minister L.F.S. Burnham promised integrity legislation. He said he was in possession of a draft bill. But it was not made into law. Soon after, a Parliamentary Committee was appointed to explore the question of the extension of the scope of the Ombudsman's functions to include the investigation of corrupt practices. But nothing came out of it. In 1974, the ruling PNC announced a Code of Conduct for its leaders. Reports would be published, it was announced. The reports referred to were concerned with the requirement of party leaders to declare their assets or interest in public corporations, etc. In this connection, the then Minister of Information and Culture, the late Shirley Field-Ridley was quoted in the Guyana, Chronicle of 12 January 1 975 as saying that the Code of Conduct "will eventually have to be accepted by all members of the PNC". But

the Code of Conduct never emerged. When the non-publication of the reports was queried, the late President and then Prime Minister said he had received them and he was satisfied. In the early 1980's, a presidential anti-corruption committee was appointed. But it died without any hearings and any report. The PNC government, with great fanfare, sponsored a motion for the acceptance of the Integrity Committee's Report. The parliamentary proceedings were also video-filmed. And the Prime Minister said that the government was bent on uprooting misconduct. No doubt, all this will be used overseas for image-building. Whether anything tangible will or can be done by the regime is another matter. Corruption has become embedded in the structure of the society. It has become a way of life. Only revolutionary change can uproot it.

At least 25,000 jobs lost under APNU+AFC to date – Jagdeo F or almost three years the creation of an enabling environment for jobs creation and investments has been touted by President David Granger and his Finance Minister, Winston Jordan. To date there has been no job creation initiatives advanced by the APNU+AFC Government. Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, recently disclosed that some 25,000 Guyanese have lost their jobs since APNU+AFC took office, the bulk of the job losses seen in the sugar sector with the mass firings of over 5,000 sugar workers. According to him, some 10,000 Guyanese have lost jobs in the formal sector, while another 15,000 are jobless in the informal sectors.

“We are seeing massive job loss and this government says it is not our position to create jobs and we have no major job creating initiatives now,” Jagdeo said. He acknowledged the comments from Dominic Gaskin, Business Minister and son-in-law of President David Granger, who claimed that some 5,725 jobs will be created in 2018. The Opposition Leader trashed these claims, noting that nothing has been done to realise such a goal. Jagdeo also noted that Gaskin pegged potential investments at $157B and noted that this has been revised downward from Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo’s claim of investments worth $187B. “Even this is a fic-

titious figure,” he said of the $157B boast. Leading up to the May 2015 regional and general elections, the APNU + AFC Coalition had promised that it would aim, “To create a new economy that will stimulate rapid development through Guyana’s transformation from a raw material producer to a manufacturer of value added goods and services.” To date, Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates have dropped from previous years, with rates for 2017 being revised twice due to the fact that targets were not met. Looking at the economy in general, the former Finance Minister and President said, “Nothing is happening.”

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Coalition Gov’t Repor President pardons prisoners

Reporter under fire from Nagamootoo, he says Chronicle is a ‘gov’t paper’

Guyana slips 6 points on 2015 Global Democracy Ranking report

Harmon says 34 ‘Honorary’ Advisors APNU+AFC Ministers appointed, admits under fire for ‘selling’ political favours APNU+AFC supporters received positions

The Democracy Ranking 2015 released the new results and data scores of its latest report over the weekend and Guyana slipped from the 55th position out of 113 countries to 61st place – a slip of six points.

Granger mocks judicial system; pardons prisoners without revealing names or crimes.

WEEKS after promising to address the scandal over the appointment of Brian ‘BK’ Tiwari as a Ministerial Advisor, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, released a short statement. And reiterated that persons who supported the campaign of the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Administration were appointed to various positions.

Two months after declaring of the Guyana Chronicle is “bastion” of public information and committing to reform of the Public Information sector, so that it informs and empowers members of the public to make wise choices, rather than fall prey to narrow and partisan agendas. And switching from the position he held in while in Opposition, now as Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo contends that the Guyana Chronicle is not a State newspaper, rather it is a government newspaper.

AFTER public comments by his Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, about supporters being given appointments, and Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, defending a wind energy power purchase agreement with a party supporter, as a political investment, President David Granger made public another view.

Granger ‘recycling incompetence from Gov’t buckles under one Ministry to ‘criticisms’: Granger another’, Cabinet confirms demotion of reshuffle fools Norton, other moves no one - PPP in Cabinet reshuffle The criticisms that bombarded the David Granger-led Coalition Government have seen the Administration buckling. And President David Granger has confirmed that Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, has been demoted to head the Department of Social Cohesion – which falls under the Ministry of the Presidency. As such, Norton will not have to report to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Norton, over the last few weeks, has had to apologise to the National Assembly for misleading the House on the matter of the controversial ‘drug bond’ issue. He has also been at the centre of another scandal where he allegedly mandated the release of large consignments of imported foods, which the Food and Drug Administration deemed unfit for consumption.

The Cabinet reshuffle confirmed by President David Granger, has been dubbed as an “appeasement measure by Granger towards its junior coalition partner” – the Alliance For Change (AFC) – by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

Office of the President’s operatives tear down ‘Cheddi Jagan Research Centre’ sign Several men, in shirts emblazoned with the Ministry of the Presidency logo, reigned nothing short of terror down on the staffers at Red House – saying that they were acting on the instructions of Minister of State, Joseph Harmon

Drug bond scandal: Rental contract reveals professional office leased for over $14M, not bond The recent release of an incomplete unsigned contract (Agreement of Tenancy) between the Ministry of Public Health and the Linden Holdings Inc., to the Parliamentarians, is adding more shock waves to what is now being popularly called the “drug bond scandal’.

Jordan says Bill to impose more fees a ‘win-win’, PPP/C MPs argue against more hardships on Guyanese The Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2016 – Bill No. 25/2016 – was first up for debate at the sitting of the National Assembly, the first sitting of 2016. And the political Opposition kicked off 2017 in the National Assembly with a fight against what it called oppressive tax measures that will make the lives of Guyanese people worse.

Granger tells Congress – ‘PNCR ‘constitution’ is our supreme law’ “Our Constitution” is our supreme law, President David Granger declared at the opening of the 19th Biennial Delegates Congress of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR).

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

rt Card ... in headlines Politically appointed REO in Region 9 facing sexual assault charges

After allegations of sexual harassment leveled against the politically appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) in Region 9, Carl Parker, by a top elected female official in the region, he was charged on February 8, 2017, and brought before Judge Judy Latchman. Released on bail set at GY $200 000, he is scheduled to return to Court on February 16, 2017.

2016 ends with robberies near the 3,000-mark The Guyana Police Force has disclosed its report on the crime statistics as at the end of 2016. And the various cases of robberies almost at the 3,000-mark, with 1,267 reports being cases of break and enter and larceny.

First sitting for 2017: Speaker called out for attempt to muzzle PPP/C MPs

At the close of the first sitting of 2017, House Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland, expressed his intention for the House to sit up to 22:00hours at future sittings and attempted to dictate the content of speeches made by People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Parliamentarians.

Rice Industry Shocker… Alesie walks away after 25 years

Government supporter and Chairman of the Alesie Group, Turhane Doerga, has confirmed that the company is closing its five mills and will cease doing business in Guyana because he claims the rice industry is in rapid decline and government is bereft of ideas to halt the decline.

68 out of 86 drugs on essential drugs list in short supply at Public Hospital Despite government denials, over 50 per cent of essential drugs are in short supply or have run out at the Georgetown Public Hospital. These include paracetamol, aspirin, insulin and other essential drugs. It was reported to PAC earlier that 186 drugs were out of stock or in short supply, earlier this year.

Ramjattan admits to ‘having drinks’ with UK advisor to SOCU, after Luncheon and Jagdeo arrested Days after British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn, denied that staff from the British High Commission were with a Government Minister at a café in Georgetown a day after the arrests and detention of top People’s Progressive Party (PPP) officials, Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, confessed a different story. The matter relates particularly to British Advisor to the Special Organised Crimes Unit (SOCU), Sam Sittlington. At a fundraising dinner, Ramjattan said, “The fact (is) that I had some wine with Sam on Wednesday evening at Oasis was because I wanted to thank him for the great work he did at SOCU.” The ‘drinks’ came after top PPP leaders were arrested. Opposition Leader, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has called for an investigation.

Overcrowded St. Ignatius Nursery School forces children under dilapidated APNU+AFC inks five benab for classes Parents of students at the St. Ignatius Nursery School in Central Rupununi, Region 9, have expressed concerns over the fact that representations of a major issue have not been addressed.

PSC condemns moves to restrict foreign currency market The Private Sector Commission (PSC), has said that it has read with consternation the pronouncements of the Minister of State as these relate to the introduction of stricter regulations and closer monitoring of the foreign exchange market in Guyana.

Economic slowdown threatening businesses Businesses are scaling down operations, while several others are closing down, contributing to the increased unemployment levels.

multi-million dollar loan agreements in less than two weeks

The David-Granger led government continues to plunge the country into early inextricable debt, borrowing heavily from IDB. The IMF has said that the debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to reach 61 per cent of GDP by 2019 and has recommended fiscal adjustments.

‘Basil Williams remains in contempt of court’ Attorney General, Basil Williams, despite a court order, has failed to appoint the Governing Board to the Deed Commercial Registry Authority, (DCRA) and has filed an appeal in the matter. However, former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, contends that the filing of an appeal does not translate to operating as a stay of execution of the High Court’s decision for him to appoint the Registry’s Board. (Continued on page 20)

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Coalition Gov’t Report... PNCR youth arm voices dissatisfaction with Gov't

The Guyana Youth and Student Movement, the youth arm of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) held its Extended General Council in the Hall of Heroes at Congress Place Sophia. And the meeting saw complaints from youths dissatisfied with the PNCR, specifically with the performance of the Coalition government.

Jagdeo calls out Granger for not meeting with local miners

It has been a month since local miners called for a meeting with President David Granger and he has not responded.

Millions in taxpayers’ dollars being used to fund advisors, special and regional assistants for Nagamootoo More than two months later, questions put to Prime Minster, Moses Nagamootoo, by the political Opposition during the review of Budget 2017 have finally been answered. And it has been disclosed that Guyanese taxpayers are funding almost a dozen special and administrative assistants for him.

$605M bombshell corrupt deal: Volda Lawrence approves sole sourcing of medicines, supplies claiming emergency Another bombshell corrupt deal has been exposed. This time it is a $606M corruption involving Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence.

(From page 17)

PSC voices concerns about sole sourcing, increases taxes, decline in value of Guyana dollar and more with IMF

Linden Town Clerk’s appointment revoked by Bulkan without notice

Bulkan acted as ‘king’ and knocked out statutory mechanism to manage local gov’t system – Luncheon

The move of Ronald Bulkan, the Minister of Communities, to pen a public letter (published on April 3rd, 2017) upbraiding the Editorial team of the state-owned Guyana Chronicle about editorial decisions has been rejected by the Guyana Press Association (GPA).

The Private Sector Commission met with the International Monetary Fund Mission (IMF) team currently in Guyana. And the Commission raised concerns about instances of sole sourcing of contracts, which have occurred despite the existence of the Procurement Commission. Concerns were also raised over the decline in the value of the Guyana dollar and the IMF representatives suggested that a flexible exchange rate, which would allow the currency to revalue itself in response to market forces, was ideal.

The Coalition Government is pursuing “nothing short of abuse of power” when it comes to the management of the local government system, according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Executive, Dr Roger Luncheon. His comments were made in relation to the continued delay in setting up the Local Government Commission (LGC).

Prominent local Attorney heading State Board part of leading fuel smuggling ring

More than a year has passed without government action on the matter of illegal fuel smuggling, despite multiple reports on the issue. And a prominent Attorney-at-Law, involved currently in two high profile political cases, and head of State Board is part of what has now become the leading fuel smuggling ring in Guyana. Reports about the illegal activity first surfaced last year.

Attorney General threatens High Court Judge: says ‘the last Magistrate who did that to me was later found dead’

During a hearing in the matter involving Carvil Duncan – regarding the challenge of his suspension as Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC) – High Court Judge, Franklin Holder walked off the bench without adjourning the matter after being threatened by Attorney General Basil Williams.

Just three weeks after being cleared by an investigative committee to resume duties as the Linden Town Clerk, Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan, revoked Ms. Jonellor Bowen’s appointment without notice.

Press Association blasts Coalition gov’t over ‘unmistakable’ signals of Executive control

Basil Williams targets another professional woman After coming under criticisms for targeting professional women, Attorney General Basil Williams, is now moving to take action against the head of the Head of the Deeds Registry of the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority, Azeena Baksh, who is also the daughter of a former PPP/C minister.

Jordan tells forestry sector stakeholders to ‘bring the evidence’ to show that VAT is hurting industry Facing criticisms over the pressures being put on stakeholders in the forestry sector, particularly as it relates to tax policies, Government remains seemingly unmoved.

Coalition in danger of falling apart, violations of Cummingsburg seen Political commentator, Ralph Ramkarran, has lamented the fact that the Cummingsburg Accord – which inked the partnership between APNU and AFC – is being honoured in the breach and has warned about consequences of broken trust and broken promises.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

APNU Parliamentarian guiding GRO team for birth certificate issuance in Region 1 ‒ concerns about GRO still unaddressed by gov’t

four-person team from the General Registrar’s Office (GRO), is being led by Member of Parliament, Mr. Richard Allen, to deal with the issuance of birth certificates in Region 1. This is the latest of similar moves by the GRO to hinterland regions. Meanwhile, evidence continued to be gathered on the issuance of documents by the Department of Citizenship, which falls under the Ministry of the Presidency, to persons who are not eligible to receive them, according to Opposition Leader, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo. He charged

that such a state of affairs can impact not only the national documents, such as the status of Guyanese passports, but also the electoral system, with persons registering as voters under false pretenses. He has since called on the public to communicate any additional information related to the matter to his office. In 2016, the political Opposition questioned payments for 300,000 birth certificate documents in the National Assembly. Citizenship Minister, Winston Felix, was grilled by the Opposition on the project-

ed sum of $37.5M to be spent in 2017, as opposed to the $9.5M which were set for the funding of print and non-print materials for 2016. In response, he told the National Assembly that the cost for the print material was increased. At a prior news conference, Jagdeo underscored the concerns of the PPP with Minister Felix in charge of the Department of Citizenship. “We have concerns about Felix and we have expressed those already, about the birth certificates and the possibility of tampering there,” the Opposition

Leader said. He had also stated that the Party will not let its guard down as it relates to any attempt to rig the next General and Regional Elections. “I know it is a big concern of this country about the signals they are hearing about rigged elections. That is a fear of many people. They believe that given the PNC’s history and that a significant number of the actors of the past are in the current government, that there will be a concerted and sophisticated attempt to rig the next election,” he said. As such, Jagdeo stressed

that the PPP will be vigilant for any such attempt. “We are working internationally to get international eyes on Guyana. Secondly we will expose any attempt to tamper with the process,” he said. According to him, the PPP has also expressed concerns about the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) machinery, with Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, in charge – particularly given his move to have the Party’s elections petition, a challenge to the results of the May 2015 General and Regional Elections, not be heard in the High Court. “He has acted in a partisan manner in this case,” Jagdeo said.

He noted that moving forward special focus will be placed on the continuous registration cycle and the voters list, to ensure that there is no tampering with the process or the final list of electors. “We are aware that a few people have gone underground, missing from APNU camp, and they are busy working on matters,” the Opposition Leader said. Jagdeo made clear that the Guyanese people must not think that the Party will “walk in unaware” of their concerns. “We will not lie down, roll over and give up. We are going to look at every single issue they may use in falsifying the results of the next elections,” he declared.

APNU+AFC leaders on the council are fully responsible for the woes of the City

‘monkey on our back’ was the description used by President Granger in referring to the false and almost stifling claims of Venezuela, regarding our precious County of Essequibo. Comparatively, the fair observer at his best, would use the term ‘Parasitic Monkey’ in referring to the decades old debacle of his Party’s influence on the Georgetown Mayor & City Council (M&CC). Disappointingly, it seems as though things at this Council will maintain in this blood sucking and disease carrying status quo, if changes are not made. Over the decades, the Municipality of Georgetown M&CC was always won and controlled by the PNC; PNCR and now the APNU/AFC Coalition; in which the PNCR holds the largest controlling representation. Their representatives have always held overwhelming voting control as elected Councilors, and have largely controlled the key Administrative Committees, which effected planning, implementation of projects and evaluation of performance, regarding the services required to citizens of our Capital City. It cannot be denied, that their high level of continuous mismanagement have been replicated in the miserable failure results for decades. The controlling influences in this APNU/ AFC Government, proves that they are hell bent in running this Municipality as a one-Party dictator until it becomes dysfunctional. Although in Government, they consis-

tently utilize the myopic mode of advancing approaches, which serves to destabilize, regardless of how it affects citizens. Their behavior, actually addresses the continuance of the one-seat majority tempo used in the National Assembly while in Opposition, as they sought use every good project as a bargaining chip or bury it. The results were so impacting in 2015, that they found themselves in the same hole they dug to bury the projects. They now demonstrate that they do not have a clue about get out of it because ‘what monkey sees, monkey does’. It is utterly repulsive that the Georgetown Municipality did not conduct their Election for the year 2018.

By law, all the Municipalities and NDCs must conduct their internal elections where Councillors would elect all the Chairmen, Vice-Chairmen and the Mayors and Deputy Mayors before the end of December of every year. However, the eye-pass continues in total disregard for the laws of this country. The elected Councilors should be ashamed of themselves and wake up to earn some measure of respect. Importantly, this lawlessness galore must be vociferously rejected. The engrained administrative failures and misappropriations that have resulted from the PNCR’s manipulations at City Hall, justify the need for a forensic audit and a Commission of Inquiry that President Granger loves so much. Why is the president unconcerned that each year, M&CC ends up further in debt? It is noteworthy that public financial information confirms that the incompetent ‘administrative milkers’ at M&CC, ended 2017 with more than $3B in liabilities. This is indeed disgraceful! When the APNU/AFC took office in 2015, M&CC had a positive bank balance of G$180M, but that was not for long as the present administration has spent ‘Wild West’. Information received indicate, that the councilors were given fake statements and reports when they sought details in preparation of the Municipality 2018 Budget. In addition, the councilors were asked to consider the statements without any proper explanations. It is indeed most alarming that this PNCR

dominated Council and Municipal Administrators are spending more than $6M each day above all incoming funds. Further, inside sources informed this Column that the staff strength at the (GM&CC) is more than one thousand. However, there seems to be jobs created particularly for the PNC activists and senior officers’ friends and families. Given that the monthly payroll is in excess of $130m, why is everything that is being done are contracted out to private contractors? The millions of dollars that is paid to private contractors for the provision of services to the M&CC are most alarming and highly questionable. It is also known that the Georgetown M&CC owes millions of dollars in deductions from workers’ salaries for remittance to the GRA, NIS. Utility companies such as GPL, GWI are also owed even as monies continue to be expended with very little accountability as to when these payments would be made. Of course, the Government sees nothing wrong and remains unconcerned. As the residents and businesses are asked to pay more in taxes, other miscellaneous fees are imposed on them including fees for garbage collections, while the services provided, continue to remain poor and sub-standard. Various areas in the city and its surroundings that the Municipality has responsibility for continue to be flooded despite the millions of dollars that were expended over the last two years to address the drainage issues. Negligence is the order of the day and the commitment to provide the necessary services to the ratepayers are been put aside for more moneys to be spent on overseas travelling and benefits for the elite few at the Council. The APNU/AFC leaders on the council are fully responsible for the woes of the City. The AFC, like the PNC, have proven that they cannot be trusted, given the number of broken promises.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

PPP/C takes APNU+AFC gov’t to court over its move to hide US$18M

he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has filed a legal challenge seeking to have Government transfer the ExxonMobil US$18 million signing bonus into the Consolidated Fund. PPP/C Parliamentarian, Anil Nandlall, filed the challenge and stated that the deposit of the signing bonus into a private back account is contrary to, and in violation of, the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA). In his application, the MP is also seeking, among other things, an order from the court directing that Finance Minister Winston Jordan transfer and deposit the bonus into the Consolidated Fund forthwith. He argued that Govern-

ment is in breach of Section 38 of the FMAA, which provides that all public monies raised or received by the Government shall be credited fully and promptly to the Fund. In accordance with Article 216 of the Constitution and Section 38 of the FMAA, Nandlall said the US$18 million bonus and such other sums collected by the Government under the Petroleum Agreement with ExxonMobil are public monies and must, therefore, be paid into and form one Consolidated Fund. This legal challenge follows a lawsuit that was filed in January by Attorney Christopher Ram, on behalf of anti-corruption activist Troy Thomas, who also asked the High Court to order Minister Jordan to im-

mediately deposit the US$18 million received from ExxonMobil as a signing bonus into the Consolidated Fund, while saying his failure to do so is unlawful. When the matter was called, however, the challenge had to be retracted after Chief Justice Roxane George had ruled that the litigation’s format was flawed. It now has to be re-filed and served on all parties before the court can proceed. The legal team, headed by Ram, is currently in the process of reframing the documents and plans to file a new application soon. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has repeatedly debunked the Government’s excuse for holding the funds outside of the Consolidated Fund. Government has said

Allicock admits that HEYS was not structured to incorporate training in multiple sectors ‒ programme to be scrapped

outed as a flagship programme for the APNU+AFC Coalition Government, the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) initiative is set to be replaced by another programme yet to be determined, developed and consulted on. Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Sydney Allicock, admitted that HEYS will be scrapped, since it was not structured to incorporate other training programmes for youths in the various sectors. Just about 700 persons were involved in the HEYS programme, which is a far cry from the thousands trained under the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), which was an initiative under the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government. The focus of YEAP was to train young Amerindians while employing them at the

same time as is a medium to empower the young as partners in national development. Under YEAP, over 2,000 Community Support Officers (CSOs) were trained and participated productively in Education, Health, and Social Welfare, Community Development, Culture, ICT, Infrastructure and small business. The CSOs received training in various, including: Management of Photovoltaic System; Management of Basic ICT hardware; Governance & Amerindian Act; Youth Voices for Climate Change; Business & Sustainable Development; and Various aspect of the Community Development Project training. Also, a group of qualified and eligible Community Service Officers were enrolled for course at the University of Guyana on line programme for a Bachelor’s Degree in Maths and Physics or Computer Science.

The trained youths then collaborated on the implementation of CDPs and other socio-economic activities taking place in the villages. The inclusion of the young allowed them to participate productively in technical, mechanical, computer, and agricultural activities which definitely enhance the capacity of the villages’ human resources. With the HEYS programmes, the participants received six months of classroom training and six months of practical training, but there has been no follow-up support to ensure that they secure jobs or are supported with easy access to financing to launch entrepreneurial activities. Over $2B was invested in the last two years of the PPP/C government in YEAP. Given the scrapping of the HEYS initiative, questions related to value for monies spent are now being asked.

that the money was kept in a private account to pay legal fees for Guyana should it have to take its border case with Venezuela to the International Court of Justice. Jagdeo is contending that the Government’s intention was always to hide the money, but they were caught with their hands in the proverbial cookie jar. The bonus in question was paid to the Government’s Central Bank account by US oil giant ExxonMobil in 2016. The existence of this bonus and the renegotiated oil agreement with the company was kept a secret until evidence of the transaction was leaked in December 2017. The correspondence of September 20, 2016, which was leaked to the media, was addressed to the Governor

of the Bank of Guyana with the subject being, “Signing bonus granted by ExxonMobil – Request to open bank account”. It showed Finance Secretary at the Finance Ministry, Hector Butts, requesting that a foreign currency account be opened at the Bank in order to receive a deposit in the form of a ‘signing bonus’ to be given by the oil company. The letter stated, “This account should not be treated as part of the Bank’s reserves. Instead, the proceeds should be held in the currency of the deposit, that is, United States dollars, and invested in secured interest-bearing securities.” After mounting criticism, President David Granger defended the transaction by saying it was the thing to do at the time. He also noted

that the money was placed in an escrow account, though observers have disputed this. After the fact, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman also defended the secrecy by saying the money would be used to defend Guyana’s sovereignty in the legal process. At present, Guyana is awaiting a ruling from the United Nations Secretary General on whether or not the country would have to proceed to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In the meantime, however, this sum of money remains outside of the Consolidated Fund. The proceedings by Nandlall were filed on Monday, and a hearing on his application is fixed before the Chief Justice on March 13, 2018.

Farmers protest for paddy payments owed by Alesie ‒ RPA joins call for immediate payment

he Guyana Rice Producers Association (RPA) joined scores of rice farmers on Wednesday (Feb 14, 2018) who were demonstrating for payments at the Ruimzeight Rice Processors/ Alesie facility at Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara. The facility is closely associated with Turhane Doerga, who for years now has had numerous issues with payment to farmers for paddy supplied. according to a statement issued by the RPA, “it would appear that every season, Doerga catches fresh victims in his web of lies and deceit as he seeks to improve his financial well-being.” One farmers stated that:

“Doerga gat a sweet mouth”. In this way old debts are not cleared and fresh debts with new suppliers of paddy are added to the books. Some of the farmers have already gone to court and in some cases the court had awarded judgment in favor of the farmers, but because of the many companies operating out of the Ruimzeight location, enforcement of the judgment by way of assets seizure is extremely difficult. The RPA stated that “it is our view that this way of operation was designed to create difficulties for enforcement of court decisions. It would appear that all along the various companies around which Doerga oper-

ates have been preparing for this kind of eventuality.” The Guyana Rice Producers Association has assured the farmers that they will receive maximum support from the association as they seek to get their monies. The RPA is also calling on the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the Ministry of Agriculture to take steps to protect the interests of the farmers and lend support to ensure payments. So far, the court has passed judgment against Turhane .M. Doerga, Vijay Doerga, Ruimzeight Rice Processing Inc, Ruimzeight Rice Industries Ltd and Associated Rice Exporters Inc.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

AFC leaders fail to meet deadline set by members for review of Cummingsburg Accord …failing in attempts to rebrand itself

“H

OW do you rebrand treachery? How do you rebrand spinelessness? How do you rebrand dishonesty? How do you rebrand breach of promises?” These were the questions posed by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, who, at a recent news conference, commented on the moves by the Alliance For Change (AFC) to “rebrand” the image of the Party. Noting the fact that the AFC has re-engaged its foreign consultant to assist in rebranding the party’s image, he said, “It will not work.” According to him, the AFC has lost their support basis, since Guyanese who believed that the AFC stood for principles have been betrayed. “They betrayed all of those people in exchange for the good life for few people…and the few there are no different from APNU…they share advice they think Granger wants, like we saw with GECOM…then

they come out and lie to public as though they are different…they can’t have it both ways….the AFC sits in Cabinet, they agreed to VAT, they voted for it in Parliament and then somehow they come out to tell they people that they do not support it.” Jagdeo stressed that the increasingly embattled AFC will face an uphill task of re-branding, given their actions and vocal acquiescence of actions taken by the Coalition government. ON THE DEFENSIVE

The AFC, over the last few weeks, has been dealing with the backlash of decisions advanced by the Coalition government – decisions unpopular with the Guyanese people, including the unilateral appointment of a Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), which the political Opposition has said is unconstitutional. Some three weeks ago,

Sick Nagamootoo flies to US for heart surgery

rime Minister Moses Nagamootoo underwent urgent heart surgery in the United States of America this week. He was advised that he needed to undergo a heart bypass after being found with cardiac issues. Nagamootoo is in the United States with his wife and several family members. The Ministry of the Presidency on Tuesday (February 13, 2018) afternoon stated that Nagamootoo’s medical procedure was completed successfully. “Prime Minister Nagamootoo is resting and recovering with Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, his children and other family members by his side,” the Ministry of the Presidency said. Nagamootoo and his family are expected to remain in United States of

America for a few more weeks before returning to Guyana. Nagamootoo’s visit to the United States raises again the contentious issue of Government officials seeking treatment overseas, rather than at the Georgetown Public Hospital or even local private hospitals, using taxpayers’ monies. When in the Opposition, the coalition parties had heavily criticised members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for seeking medical treatment overseas, instead of utilising the national facilities. However, Government Ministers have been flying to Ireland and other overseas territories for medical treatment. Also, a health insurance policy is being prepared for Government officials.

key members of the AFC Canadian chapter pulled out from the party, with Secretary of AFC-Canada, Laurence Williams, expressing grave concerns in a letter over the unilateral appointment of the new GECOM Chairman. Leaked emails showed that the sentiments expressed by the party’s Canadian grouping are shared by its United States chapter. In fact, Chairman of the US group, Dr Rohan Somar, ridiculed the manner in which the party handled the situation. He was at the time referring to the October 2017 statement issued by the AFC in which it distanced itself from being involved in the decision-making process but supported the Head of State’s unilateral appointment. “In my view, the AFC's public disclosure of `We played no part in the process… yet… we support the decision to avoid a constitutional crisis!’ Really! This position makes the AFC looks weak and impotent. You are seen by the common man as being treated as a stepchild or a poodle in the coalition,” Somar vented. He went on to point out that the excuse given that the AFC supported the decision to make a unilateral appointment

to avoid a “constitutional crisis” was nothing but a hollow excuse. “You were already in a constitutional crisis with the continued delays in the GECOM and for a variety of other reasons,” Somar posited. In addition to the Canadian and US groups, the leaked emails also show internal upsets over the GECOM decision. In one of the correspondence amongst the party’s local and overseas executives, AFC’s David Patterson, who is the Public Infrastructure Minister within the coalition Government, stated that he had serious issues with the decision to make a unilateral appointment – a move which, he bluntly pointed out, the party would not have accepted had it not been in Government. “Were we out of office, would we have accepted such a decision to unilaterally appoint a Chairman? The answer is NO! Therein lies my first major issue—why are we accepting it now?” detailed the email sent by Patterson on October 22 at 10:02h. He went on to say in the correspondence that, “This appointment now sets an unwanted new political procedure in our country…the PPP paid a heavy price for setting precedence when they prorogued Parliament in 2014. We should not be

supporting the “loopholes” or “tie breaking clauses” in our Constitution – these should only be used in the absolute last resort.” The leaked emails have left the Party on the defensive. CAUGHT IN A LIE

Responding to the AFC statement on the email leaks, Jagdeo called out the AFC for being caught in a lie. The AFC first cast doubts on the authenticity of the email, but later, in the same statement, acknowledged that it was genuine. Jagdeo noted that the AFC first dubbed the email as “purported emails from political opponents,” then, later in the statement, said the email “confirms” the Party’s commitment to robust internal discussions. “When you set out to lie, you get caught up in these sorts of things, and this is what happened,” he said. He also trashed the AFC’s November 16, 2016 statement as an attempt to divert from the real issue at hand – which is that AFC Leader, Raphael Trotman, was involved in the process to select a GECOM Chair, despite the Party’s insistence that it was not involved. Jagdeo said, “In this statement, it says that Trotman was only told of choice of President when

he attended the meeting (on October 19, 2017). It is clever…I accused Trotman of many things more… this is another attempt to mislead and divert from the real issue…there was no attempt to address issues that I raised.” The Opposition Leader underscored the fact that the AFC has been exposed as not being different from the PNC-led APNU. He said, “They betrayed their members and supporters in exchange for the good life for few people...they are no different from APNU…. and they can’t have it both ways, they can’t sit in Cabinet and support decisions then come to the Guyanese people and say they support something else.” Additionally, the deadline set for a review of the Cummingsburg Accord has been missed. AFC Leader, Raphael Trotman, has admitted that there will be no discussion on the revision of the Cummingsburg Accord AFC and APNU – which is something AFC members called for since last year. Instead, Trotman said the AFC’s National Executive Council (NEC) will be meeting this Saturday, February 17th, 2018 where members will again decide on the way forward pertaining to the revision of the Accord.

Granger says AFC did not ‘formally’ request review of Cummingsburg Accord

eader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Raphael Trotman, has been branded as untrustworthy by Opposition Leader and General Secretary of the PPP, Bharrat Jagdeo. Trotman has publicly commented on moves to review the Cummingsburg Accord, after AFC members called for it to be reviewed. The Accord sealed the partnership between A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the AFC. However, President

David Granger and APNU Leader, David Granger, this week publicly stated that Trotman made no formal request to APNU for a review of the Cummingsburg Accord. He said, “The AFC has several options, it can allow the accord to proceed as it is proceeding at present, it can allow it to expire on 2020 or it can make a request for a meeting. The APNU is committed to coalition politics and I can say that the advent of the Coalition into

Government has been good for Guyana. We are better together and we would like to see the Accord continue. “…all I can say at this point in time is that there is no compulsion that the Accord be reviewed because the shortest period is three years, from 2015 to today and the longest period is until 2020.” Granger’s comments come after Trotman disclosed that there will be no discussion on the revision of the Cummingsburg Accord.

Instead, the Trotman said the AFC’s National Executive Council (NEC) will be meeting this Saturday, February 17th, 2018 where members will again decide on the way forward pertaining to the revision of the accord. The indications that there would have been a revision of the Accord and Granger’s contradictory comments, which suggest otherwise, are the latest example of an “untrustworthy” Trotman, according to the Opposition Leader.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Over 200 cases of various types of robberies in January alone C

oncerns continue to grow about the crime rates in Guyana, with the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK) issuing out advisories about the state of affairs in Guyana during the last several weeks. According to reports from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), there have been: • 7 robberies; • 45 robberies where firearms were to date used; • 18 robberies where other weapons were used;

• 16 robberies where violence was used; • 6 robberies with aggravation; • 6 larceny from person cases; • 13 burglaries; and • 92 cases of break and enter and larceny. This brings the total number of various types of robberies to a whopping 203 in January alone. Meanwhile, the Police Force has said that there has been a decrease in serious crimes at the end of January 2018, compared to January 2017.

Prison officer busted with drugs A 26-year-old Prison Officer attached to the New Amsterdam Prison and who resides at Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Berbice, was

about 19:35hrs on Monday evening (February 12, 2018), arrested inside of the New Amsterdam Prison. He was found with 528

grams of cannabis and 20 packs of cigarettes. A case file is being prepared and sent for legal advice.

Ex-policeman, employees arrested with stolen vehicle parts

olice ranks in ‘A’ Division during a 10-hour operation, which concluded at 03:00hours on Tuesday (February 13, 2018) morning at Kurukururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, have arrested six persons.

Two motorcars along with a canter truck, which is registered to a Barr Street, Kitty resident, loaded with the shell of a silver Toyota Spacio and a quantity of vehicle parts, suspected to have been sto-

len or unlawfully obtained, were seized and lodged. The suspects are reportedly employed by an ex-policeman, who is in custody along with others assisting with the investigations.

n Experiment, Bath, West Coast Berbice, goldsmith is presently nursing a gunshot wound to his left leg at a Government Medical Institution. The victim, who is said to be in a stable condition,

was shot by a lone gunman who was unsuccessful in robbing him of a bag containing valuables, at Welfare Street, East Canefield, East Canje Berbice, on Monday (February 12, 2018).

The armed bandit, abandoned his bicycle and fled on foot after the victim discharged a round in his direction from his licensed handgun. Investigations are ongoing.

Grandchildren forced to watch as bandits rob, beat Goldsmith shot, robbed by armed man A elderly woman

pensioner from Ankerville, Port Mourant, was beaten by two armed men, who forced her three grandchildren, including a two-year-old, to witness the attack, during last weekend. The two masked men, one of whom had a gun while the other wielded a metal pipe, attacked the 67-yearold woman, who was at home with her grandchildren.

Recounting the attack, the victim said, one of the bandits hit her in the head with his gun. “Dem put de gun to meh head in front those children and pull out meh earring, ring and chain. Then dem went inside and tumble up de place,” she said. The traumatised woman also disclosed that the bandits threatened to kidnap her

grandson if he failed to hand over her valuables. “Meh beg dem nah carry-way meh grandson. Meh tell dem abee nah getnutten; fuh guh in de house and see. Tek what yuh want in deh, but nah hurt meh grands.” The men escaped with electronics and US$600, as well as Guyanese currency. Investigations are ongoing.

“Kidnapped” child found with father’s relatives, in state custody Alisha Marcus, the mother of 8-year-old Anellie Hoyte, who was reportedly kidnapped from her school over a week ago, said that he daughter was reportedly found by in the care of a relative of her deceased husband in North East La Penitence. Alisha Marcus said she found her daughter on Monday at the elderly woman’s home, and Anellie has since been taken into state custody. She explained that the elderly woman related that she was unaware that it was reported that Annelie Hoyte had been kidnapped, and decided to take the child into her care since she claimed that she was seen wandering the streets of Georgetown. According to the child’s mother, her daughter said that a male had taken her to the Vreed-en-Hoop junction in a dark coloured car, and had left her there. The child then reportedly boarded a route 32 minibus, travelled to Georgetown, and

was seen by friends of relatives, who took her to the North East La Penitence area. Marcus, however, noted that Annelie’s story is not adding up, hence the reason why she is still in state custody as an investigation has been launched. This publication had reported that the child was allegedly abducted at about 09:00hrs on Wednesday last, as she was about to enter her school’s (Tuschen Primary) compound. She was reportedly grabbed from behind by a male, and was placed in a parked, dark coloured car, which then sped away. Students outside of the school who witnessed the incident quickly reported what transpired to a teacher who made contact with the child’s mother. The matter was also reported at the Leonora Police Station. Marcus had disclosed to this publication that her husband died just over two months ago and ever since, his mother who

Bicycle bandits rob schoolchildren

even teenagers from the South Ruimveldt Secondary School students were robbed of their cash and valuables by two gun-toting bandits on bicycles on Monday (February

12, 2018). The students, four girls and three boys, were on their lunch break and had stopped at Keisha’s, a shop on Macaw Lane, South Ruimveldt. In addition to cash,

the bicycle bandits stole cellular phones from the teens. The traumatised school children were held at gunpoint during the robbery. Investigations are ongoing.

Man busted with gun in crotch

North Ruimveldt resident was arrested after he was found with an unlicensed Taurus pistol with nine live rounds in his crotch on Monday (February 12, 2018). The 23-year-old man was in a minibus

when he was apprehended by police, who were informed that an armed man had boarded the vehicle. The man tried to escape on seeing police ranks but was caught. He is expected in court next week.

Chinese business couple beaten, robbed

Annelie Hoyte

resides overseas has allegedly been attempting to take her daughter from her. Marcus reported that in making efforts to do so, the woman made contact with the welfare office in Guyana and made claims of her (Marcus) being an unfit mother. The angered woman and mother to two other children relayed that an investigation was carried out by a group of welfare officers. “The claims she and her relatives made against me were found to be false and Annelie was placed back in my care” Marcus disclosed.

ix armed bandits robbed a business couple at their home at Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara on Monday (February 12, 2018). A minibus, BSS 5412, jew-

elry, cash and other valuables were stolen. The men broke into the residence and held the couple at gun-point. The two victims were beaten, while the men ran-

sacked their home. The victims were taken to the East Demerara Regional Hospital for medical attention where they were treated and sent away. Investigations are ongoing.

Corentyne man wanted for rape of 3-year-old apprehended

he 24-year-old Corentyne man who was wanted in connection with the reported rape of a 3-year-old female child on Friday last has been apprehended and is assisting with investigations. On the day in question, the child was left in the care of the suspect’s mother, as the child’s

mother would have to go to her farm in the backlands. On Friday last, the suspect’s mother had left the child unattended and it was then that her son allegedly committed the act. When the mother of the child collected her daughter after returning from the back-

lands, the girl complained that the suspect interfered with her private parts. As such, the mother contacted the police and the three-year-old was medically examined, where it was confirmed that she was sexually assaulted. Investigations are ongoing.

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Party News PPP Scrutineers and Enumerators engage in house-to-house activities C

ommencing from around mid-January of this year, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) enumeration and scrutineer teams, assisted and guided by District and Regional personnel, have been engaged in house-to housefield work. Similar to the assignments prior to previous national and regional/ local government elections, these ‘labour intensive’ HTH checks are aimed at deriving an adequate insight into the status, the veracity and transparency of the specific Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Preliminary List of Electors (PLE). Basically, the objective confirms the extent to which critical source documents (National ID Card, passport, marriage or divorce certificates, as well as Certificate of Birth can be produced or procured by potential eligible voters (registrants). Registration of newly qualified or aged 14 years and over; registration of new adults such as returned Guyanese, including those relatively small percentage of remigrant Guyanese remains a major feature of the current 10th Cycle of Continuous Registration. UPPER DEMERARA AND EAST BANK DEMERARA

In the Upper Demerara River location, HTH checks have been on going in a number of neighbour-

hoods/constituencies. These include Amelia’s Ward, Half-Mile and OneMile, Wisroc, Christianburg as well as Dadanawa. Activist initiatives include advising qualified voters who may have experienced difficulties in casting ballots on previous occasions. These relate to the alternatives that arise whenever a different polling place is identified other than that which is expected to coincide with the residential aspect of the eligible voter’s status. The other main focus is that of valid National Registration Identification Cards, as well as the problem that arises when a replacement ID card is required (i.e, the time gap involving procuring same).

These persons have to be advised as to the required procedure-location of Gecom office as well as the CR Gecom sub-office.

SOESDYKE HIGHWAY AND UPPER EAST BANK DEMERARA

District Conference for groups comprising Upper East Bank Demerara is scheduled for February 18, 2018. Registration will be 10.00 hrs at a venue conveyed to the groups. Historically, this location has placed demands upon individual groups to assume the responsibility for arranging transportation due to the relatively sparse numbers of mini bus operators who would work this route whenever such meetings are held (invariably Sundays). Upper East Bank Demerara consists of a predominantly cluster village settlement spread as well as a ‘ribbon settle-

HTH checks have been carried out along the Laluni, Moblissa, Silver Hill and St. Cuthbert’s constituencies. Similarly, Kuru Kuru and A-B-C have also had HTH interventions and further meetings are scheduled to ensure that all sections are covered. In one particular location between Adventure and Banbari along the Highway, there exist a number of citizens who formerly were residing in the North West District (region-Barima Waini & Essequibo River).

DISTRICT REGIONAL CONFERENCES

As reported in this column previously (WM 2021 January 2018), Annual District and Regional Conferences in the West Berbice (Region Five A-B-C) were programmed. These were successful and working committees and executives have been confirmed. Regional conferences for this area from Big Baiboo to Blairmont will take place on February 18 2018. Venues confirmed are at Dundee and Bath, W.C.B. UPPER EAST BANK DISTRICT

PPP officials working in Pakuri during last weekend’s house-to-house exercise

ment’ of dwellings, many situated some distance away from the main road. PARTY EXECUTIVE REBUTS FALSITY OF PRIME MINISTER NAGAMOOTOO’S GENERATION CONFLICT IN THE PPP

In correspondence published in the Stabroek News February 3 2008 as well as Weekend Mirror 10-11 February 2018, PPP Executive Committee member and Parliamentary Whip Gail Teixeira responded to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s

assertion that there was a generation conflict in the PPP. Teixeira illustrated a pattern set by the 1950s PPP of combining “youthful leaders” (e.g., Cheddi ad Janet Jagan in the 1950s) with “older and more experienced” individuals. She also made the point that at sittings of the National Assembly he described PPP stalwarts as “racists”, “fat cats” and “fascists” to name a few. Nagamootoo has at times sought to degrade the PPP Veterans as being “dino-

saurs” and “Stalinists”. These political ideological attacks however emerged or, were propagandised at various periods commencing from around 2011-2012. PPP veterans and others who have remained loyal to the party have developed a high degree of awareness much of which is due to the leadership examples of Dr Roger Luncheon, the late Narbada Persaud, Isahack Basir, Donald Ramotar, Philomena Sahoye Shury as well as Gail Teixiera and Dr Bharat Jagdeo.

Two sugar estates likely for limited reopening 24

WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018

Jagdeo says APNU+AFC must admit they blundered

overnment continues to demonstrate “phenomenal incompetence” on major issues, according to

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, at a news conference held at his Church Street office on Thursday (February

15, 2018). His comment was made with reference to developments in the sugar. Just weeks after the deci-

sion was taken to close several sugar estates, Government is likely to re-open the Skeldon and Enmore factories, in

a limited way, according to several sources. There are over 300,000 tonnes of sugar cane at the Skeldon, Rose Hall and Enmore Estates and it is unclear what will become of the crop. Responding to reports of the possible limited reopening of the estates, Jagdeo said: “We need to understand the thinking of this government…do they sit down, assess the numbers and made an informed decision….what we see is that, on the basis of faulty decision, on a whim, they are now likely to reopen the closed estates… what is going on with this government?” he questioned. The Parliamentary Opposition has repeatedly called

for feasibility and diversification studies – studies that would inform the decisions on the way forward. This was not done. And Jagdeo contends that not having done the necessary studies, the decision to reopen, even in a limited way, exposes the flawed decision making process of the Coalition Government. The Opposition Leader added that the Coalition government seems confused. Asked to comment further, he said, “I myself would like to get all the details to make and educated comment.” Meanwhile, the Coalition Government is still to confirm its position on reopening of the sugar estates.

No word on status of reconciliation of Regions’ monies spent by gov’t on drugs and medical supplies

llocations for drugs and medical supplies in several regions came under scrutiny last December, specifically given reported shortages, including shortages of basic vaccines. The system of procurement was changed in 2015. Where the Health Ministry did procurement at the central level and delivered supplies to Regions, monies have been allocated to the Regions for that purpose. The new system demands that monies be allocated to the Regions, which then send the money to the Public Health Ministry, which then purchases drugs and medical supplies and finally delivers these to the Regions. The added layer of bureaucracy, as well as mismanagement, has been blamed for the drug shortages. Communities Minister, Ronald Bulkan, was called on by the Parliamentary Opposition to provide the reconciliation of monies sent by the Regions to the Ministry of Health and the drugs delivered to the Regions. Bulkan, when pressed, admitted that reconciliations take about three months and the reconciliations for 2017 should be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2018. Notably, the Parliamentary Opposition indicated that no information has been

provided on reconciliations for 2016. To date, it is unclear is Bulkan has fully complied in this regard. Region 5 has received $3.26B for current and capital expenditures in Budget 2018 - $176.2M for regional administration and finance; $271.9M for agriculture; $329.8M for public infrastructure; $1.7B for educational delivery; and $741.5M for health services. Region 6 has received $6.45B for current and capital expenditures in Budget 2018 - $160.4M for regional administration and finance; $841.3M for agriculture; $403.4M for public infrastructure; $3.2B for educational delivery; and $1.81B for health services. Region 7 has received $2.54B for current and capital expenditures in Budget 2018 - $284.5M for regional administration and finance; $222.3M for public infrastructure; $1.41B for educational delivery; and $621M for health services. Region 8 has received $1.8B for current and capital expenditures in Budget 2018 - $136.8M for regional administration and finance; $288.1M for public infrastructure; $981.8M for educational delivery; $370.6M for health services; and $23.35M for agriculture. Drug shortages were reported in all these Regions, as well as others.

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WEEKEND MIRROR 17-18 FEBRUARY, 2018