Issuu

CDB pumps $42M into 10 local gov’t development PAGE

SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Price: $80

Bandits shot dead No. 105202

(VAT Inclusive)

... two others in custody following brazen Berbice robbery

PAGE

Flood watch ...

All hands on deck

PAGE

–– as gov’t puts relief measures in place

–– relevant agencies assess the damage

Painting 09 the town, Holi style PAGE

The drama and the destruction that unfolded yesterday as the the Atlantic laid seige to the sea defence at Den Amstel, on the West Coast of Demerara (Photos by Alva Solomon and Samuel Maughn)

–– in a profusion of bright colour

Gov’t, CDC on high alert –– as unusually high tides wreak havoc on ‘West Dem’

PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Gov’t, CDC on high alert –– as unusually high tides wreak havoc on ‘West Dem’

By Navendra Seoraj AS people all across Guyana played Phagwah on Friday, dousing each other with abeer and powder and just making merry, some battled to stay dry after the Atlantic breached the sea defences in their communities in the wake of some unusually high tides over the past few days. This rather unexpected turn of events has left hundreds of West Demerara residents, especially those at Uitvlugt, Stewartville and Leonora in tears and at a loss for words as they watched helplessly as the advancing waters laid seige to their belongings. As one Uitvlugt resident, Joel Yansen told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, there was very little that any of them could have done. “People were sleeping when the water started breaching the seawall around 3:00am this morning,” he said. “Some of us woke up to water already knee high, and the most we could do was start moving out some of our appliances and taking our children away from the

water.” The waves were reportedly higher than some two-storeyed buildings, so aside from fearing for their material belongings, residents also feared for their lives. Yansen said that most residents decided to evacuate their homes and stand on the public road, but away from the seawall. REAL TOUGH “We had it real tough here,” he said. “People house fall down, and they did not have anywhere to go or anything to eat. So a few of us rushed to see how we could assist. ” Residents started working together to get those who lived in dilapidated houses, especially the children, to relative safety. Yansen said that a group of villagers from Uitvlugt ran across to neighbouring Stewartville to lend a helping hand there. Even parts of the roadway were broken and washed away by the strong waves that lashed over the seawall. The effects of the overtopping were visible even up to noon that day, as residents

Fences torn down by strong waves at Uitvlugt

Richie’s shop after the flood

Uitvlugt residents preparing for the next high tide (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

busied themselves cleaning their houses, removing fences that were destroyed and even goods that were destroyed by water. One Uitvlugt shopowner named Richie was reduced to tears, as he has lost millions of dollars in goods due to flooding caused by the overtopping. Richie said he somehow knew there was going to be a flood and was somewhat prepared for it, because on Thursday afternoon it was raining heavily, but nothing could have prepared him for what happened on Friday morning. “I heard the rumbling this morning, but at that time it did not come over as yet, so I start move one and two things,” the distraught shopkeeper said, adding: “But before I know it, water was coming into the house from all corners… The li’l sandbags I put around the house to keep water out get wash away like nothing.” FIRST IN YEARS Like many of the other villagers, he said this was the first time in years that they have experienced such massive flooding. “I have been living here for 55 years and never seen something so bad… I thought this water gon destroy we,” Richie said. He, however, said that although the water receded fast after the tide went down, the losses were still a lot to cope with. Over at Stewartville, residents started creating their own drainage systems to get water off the land and out of their yards. One young man from the community named Nicholas lost his house due to the overtopping. He recounted that around 03:30hrs, he heard the water rumbling and decided to check because he also felt his house starting to shake. “I had to do something, because I feel like the house would come down. And so said! De water wash down See page 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Lindo Creek CoI …

Bonny Harry’s family recalls last moments; father breaks down By Svetlana Marshall MINUTES into his testimony, 85-year-old Winston Harry broke down in tears as he recalled the last moments spent with his son Bonny, who was not only reportedly shot dead along with seven other miners, but was burnt beyond recognition at a mining camp at Lindo Creek in June,

leging that it was the Joint Services which had committed the gruesome act. But the government of the day had said that it was the notorious gang led by Rondell ‘Fineman’ Rawlins that was responsible. For President David Granger, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Lindo Creek massacre will not only unfold the truth about what

Eighty-five-year-old Winston Harry recollecting the last moments spent with his son Bonny Harry. (Samuel Maughn photo) 2008. For 10 years, the mass murder has remained unsolved with relatives and friends of the deceased al-

really transpired at that mining camp, but is also pivotal in unravelling the tapestry of criminality that engulfed the country between 2000

and 2008. When the commission commenced its first round of public hearings into the Lindo Creek massacre on Thursday, Winston Harry was among four persons who took the stand before the Chair, Justice Retired Donald Trotman in a packed chamber at the Department of Public Service. He had last seen his son in March, 2008 – approximately three months before receiving the devastating news that he had been murdered. Responding to a series of questions posed by the commission’s Attorney Patrice Henry, Harry said his son was working at a mining camp in Lindo Creek with (Leonard) Arokium at the time of his death. Bonny Harry was a husband and father of three girls. Winston Harry told the commission that his son had returned home in March, 2008 upon the passing of his mother. He was living in Zorg on the Essequibo Coast, approximately three miles from his father’s Annandale home. Harry said approximately two months after seeing his son, he got the devastating news that he had been murdered. He was at the Supenaam Stelling when he was approached by a woman known to the family. “She asked me if I hear anything, I said no, what happened,” Harry recalled as he broke down in tears. After a small break, he continued “She said that Bonny died. He get shoot up. Eight men get shoot up at Lindo Creek.” The elderly man said several days after on the

Bonny Harry’s wife Maureen Harry, testifying before the commission on Thursday television, the names of the eight murdered miners were announced. His son was among the set. “After then, couple days after I turn on my TV and the President at the time…He got on the TV and said that ‘Fine Man’ killed them, so after I hear that, I said well we ain’t get nothing to get, cause is Fine Man.” According to Harry, aside from what he heard on the streets and on the television, he was never formally informed about the death of his son. Shortly after receiving the news, Bonny’s family and close friends held a memorial service at a Methodist Church in Zorg. The elderly man said a few years ago he was approached by a young policeman, who questioned what should be done with the remains of his son. Prior to that Harry said he had provided a DNA sample for testing. Maureen Harry, Bonny’s wife, subsequently took the stand. For her, Bonny was

a husband, father, and the breadwinner of the family. “He never wanted me to work,” Maureen told the commission, while adding that her husband was the sole provider of the family. According to her, Bonny would return to their Zorg, Essequibo Coast home from the interior location where he worked during the Easter or August holiday, but in 2008, he returned in March after receiving news that his mother had passed. That was the last time she saw him. Maureen told the commission even before she had got the news that her husband was murdered, she knew something was not quite right. “Before we get message that he died, I know that his spirit was in the house. Because one night we all went into bed, myself and was two daughters then because the other one, she was in nursing school in Linden, so we went into bed and about 20

minutes after we heard this heavy walking in the house,” she recalled. According to Maureen, she was never formally informed by the police that her husband was murdered, nor was she informed of funeral arrangements for the remains. She said once some Neighbourhood Police visited her home to enquire, but she wasted no time in sending her away. Fighting the tears from flowing, Maureen Harry thanked the President and government for launching the CoI into the massacre that struck the nation in June, 2008. Dax Arokium, Cedric Arokium, Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes, Clifton Wong, Lancelot Lee, Bonny Harry and Nigel Torres were the miners killed and burnt at Lindo Creek. Their charred remains were discovered by the owner of the mining operation, Leonard Arokium on June 21, 2008.

Gov’t, CDC on high ... From page 2

meh house and wash away everything inside,” he said. He said that for the time being, he intends to stay with his relatives, but called on the government to provide some assistance to him and other residents of the area who were affected. Residents of Stewart-

ville who were doing subsistence farming also lost everything, and said they were still afraid because the highest tide of the spring season was expected around 4:00pm on Friday. DPI UPDATE The Department of

Public Information (DPI) has reported that Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings, a team from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and other government officials, including Col Kester Craig and officials of the Civil Defence

Commission (CDC), were on the ground assessing the situation, and distributing supplies and sandbags. DPI also reported that the Guyana Fire Service had assisted in cleaning and securing the Leonora Cottage Hospital that was under water, and was also assist-

ing with the distribution of sandbags. Another high tide and overtopping were forecast for 15:00hrs on Friday. According to the DPI, the CDC team was expected to remain on the ground for the next high tide and provide requisite assistance and guidance.

Residents in the affected areas were asked to take all necessary precautions, and to stay away from the seawall and sea dams during the high tide. They have also been warned to avoid all unnecessary contact with floodwaters.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Two killed following Berbice River robbery -two in custody

TWO bandits were killed on Phagwah Day following a daring robbery on the Berbice River . The bandits have been identified as Indarjit ‘Danny’ Sham,37,of Betsy Ground Village ,East Canje and Amar ‘Punk’ Bissoon,21,of Adelphi Settlement ,East Canje . According to the police, an investigation revealed that about 05:00hrs on Friday morning, six male suspects, two of whom were armed with guns, went to a ranch house at Potocco Creek ,Berbice River and held three male labourers at gunpoint . In the process, the bandits stole a number of animals and equipment and loaded same on a boat and escaped. Among the items were 23 sheep, 15 ducks, a solar panel, a radio,a quantity of rope, and other valuables, all of which belonged to a 50-year-old businessman of Vryheid ,West Canje,Berbice. Police said that shortly

after the robbery, the lawmen were informed and a team commanded by a senior detective acting on intelligence, intercepted a boat with the two suspects in the Berbice River who were taken into custody. Based on further information, the ranks pro-

ceeded to a location where the robbery allegedly occurred and found all of the animals with their legs bound and the other stolen property loaded inside of a camouflaged aluminum boat. Reports are that around 10:00hrs, the lawmen disem-

barked their boat and were confronted by gunmen who discharged several rounds at them; the officers quickly adopted tactical positions, returned fire and fatally wounded two men who have been positively identified by the victims as members of the

A flock of sheep which the bandits stole from the victims. Arms and ammunition which police seized following the robbery.

Saturday, March 03, 2018 Sunday, March 04, 2018 Monday, March 05, 2018 Tuesday, March 06, 2018

05:00 hrs 05:00 hrs 05:00 hrs 05:00 hrs

The boat which the police seized following the robbery.

gang who had committed the robbery earlier in the day. A 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, a .32 pistol, 11 live cartridges, and five live.32 rounds were found in the bandits’ possession. The police noted too that three spent cartridges and a .32 spent shell were retrieved at the scene. Investigators are making strenuous efforts to apprehend the other suspects. An investigation is in progress.

DATE: Wednesday, February 28, 2018

4 11 25 12

Thursday, March 1, 2018

11 16 21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Rowley urges CARICOM to get serious about Cotonou Agreement negotiations TRINIDAD and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley says Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries must “get their act together now” in order to successfully negotiate a successor to the Cotonou Agreement that expires in 2020. Rowley, who attended the 29th CARICOM Inter-Sessional summit that ended in Haiti earlier this week, told reporters here that the matter was discussed during the two-day meeting in the capital of the French-speaking CARICOM country. The Cotonou Agreement is a treaty between the European Union and the African-Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group that was signed in June 2000 in Cotonou, Benin’s largest city. It came into force in 2003 and was subsequently revised in 2005 and 2010. It is regarded as the most comprehensive partnership agreement between developing countries and the EU and in 2010, ACP-EU cooperation was adapted to new challenges such as climate

change, food security, regional integration, state fragility and aid effectiveness. The fundamental principles of the Cotonou Agreement include equality of partners, global participation, dialogue and regionalisation. The agreement is re-examined every five years. The communique issued at the end of the summit makes no reference to the discussion on the successor agreement, but Rowley described the situation “as a major issue that will take up a lot of our time in the coming months. “As you know the Cotonou Agreement….is coming to an end very soon, I think it’s 2020 and the new negotiations towards the new agreement would have to take place, I think at the beginning of August this year and therefore we as a part the ACP to negotiating trade arrangements with the developed countries, we have to get our act together now and be in a position to negotiate the next trading arrangement” He said what exists under the current Cotonou Agree-

ment is the basis on which trade is conducted between these blocs of nations. “So to go forward beyond 2020, we have to have a new agreement which must be negotiated now,” Rowley said, adding, “it will take about

Prime Minister, Trinidad and Tobago, Keith Rowley

two years for the negotiations to take place, so we start in August and we hope that by 2019…we can have an agreement and a new and hopefully improved agreement. “Now if we don’t put ourselves in a position to handle this properly …we can end up living by the terms of other regions. So if we want to influence the decisions to

have our requests and terms and conditions be part of the negotiations, we have to participate from now.” Rowley said “fortunately,” the Jamaica Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson-Smith is chairing one of these groupings and the CARICOM heads will be focusing very heavily on supporting Jamaica with the rest of our inputs and to put us in a position to take part in those post-Cotonou discussions. “And that is against the background of the Brexit negotiations, which is something that we also have to bear in mind, because we are trading quite well with Europe, particularly Britain and the Brexit negotiations are ongoing at the moment would pretty much be paralleling the Cotonou negotiations and there would be considerations one way or the other for the post-Brexit. “So we have two separate sets of trading arrangements which will emerge out of the coming months. So CARICOM as a bloc, a unit have [sic] to have its act together

Alleged armed robber walks --after prosecution fails to bring him in guilty

TWENTY-year-old Kevin Boston is today thanking his lucky stars after being freed on Thursday of all charges pertaining to an armed robbery he allegedly committed a little over a year ago at Crane, West Coast Demerara.

quantity of cash and items valued $1.6M. In setting him free, Magistrate Lambert concurred with the defence that Boston had been wrongfully identified, and that the police had not done a proper job during their investiga-

Freed: Kevin Boston

Boston was on trial before Magistrate Cristel Lambert at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrate’s Court for the charge which alleged that on January 20, 2017 at Lot 40 Church Street, Crane, while being in the company of others and armed with guns, he robbed Dawn Martin of a

tions. Defence attorney Dexter Todd, in his submission to the court, outlined several major factors and loopholes in the prosecution’s case, one of which was that during Boston’s first court appearance, he denied the allegation and maintained his innocence

throughout the trial. The attorney also noted that the victim, during her testimony in court, explained that on the day in question she heard an explosion and then saw her son coming with his hands in the air and saying, “Come, ah gon give you everything; alright brudda.” The attorney further pointed out in his submission that the victim had told the court that she saw a fair-skinned man pointing a gun at her son as he lay on the ground. She’d also told the court, Todd said, that while there were three men standing behind the fair-skinned man, she did not see if they had firearms in their possession. Todd noted that the woman recalled that the incident lasted about five minutes, and that she’d recognised one of the men to be a man who was wearing a flop hat. That man’s name, she’d said,

Defence Attorney, Dexter Todd

was ‘Boney’, the defendant, and that he’d gone to school with her daughter. But when arrested, as well as throughout his trial, counsel argued, Boston had always maintained

to be able to get the best out of what comes out of these agreements.” Rowley said that his government will make available documents pertaining to the negotiations on the website for public scrutiny. In January, ACP Secretary-General Dr P I Gomes said Caribbean countries would have to quickly develop their strategy priorities as Europe begins the process of negotiating a new, open agreement with the ACP. He told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), the proposals will form the basis for the EU negotiating memorandum to be exchanged with the 79-member ACP group in May and that the negotiations would begin in Brussels over the coming weeks. “We on our side in the ACP will be working on how we want to shape our negotiating mandate around three levels”. He said the first level would be the broad context internationally, where the ACP countries would want to see the United Nations Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs) “as the overall framework, ending poverty, gender equality, food security, ocean governance … all 17 goals as a framework which we are engaging in this agreement. “What we are pleased about is that this is an open-ended agreement without a fixed period. So it is a political engagement between the two groups of countries. ‘We will concentrate on what we call the counterpart to their foundation, which we call our central negotiating themes …and they will deal with the issues under the SGDs, but also specifically for what our three regions will address in the ensuing agreement.” Gomes told CMC that the agreement is helpful, because the European Commission is speaking “about an EU-African compact which will be one pillar, an EU-Caribbean compact which will be a second pillar and the EU-Pacific compact which will be a third pillar. (CMC)

that he was at the ‘Ten to Midnight Beer Garden’ at the material time of the robbery, as was attested by no less than five witnesses. Todd further contended that his client was still charged, even though the police had checked out his alibi and found that he’d

been telling the truth, and that he’d been mistakenly identified. The magistrate, after listening to the attorney’s submission, ruled that the prosecution failed to prove their case due to a lack of evidence, and dismissed the robbery charge against Boston.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Editorial

Putting the past into context APPROXIMATELY 64 per cent of Guyanese today have not had first-hand experience of the events of the 1960s, ’70s and some part of the ’80s. It is for this reason that those who are opinion shapers are obligated to help this group to understand that era by objectively putting into context events that occurred, and situating same within the socio-economic and political atmosphere at the time, both local and external. To do otherwise is to deny this demographic, development which is required for personal and national growth and fostering an environment of peaceful co-existence. More importantly, this generation is part of the present leaders and will be the main leaders of tomorrow and therefore deserve to be equipped with the requisite tools to make the future better. The temptation for finger-pointing, though it be can lucrative, is more reflective of settling scores or proving points at the expense of the nation moving forward. For if the young, who constitute the majority, are denied the opportunity of history being examined through appropriate lenses, unnecessary friction can be created which threaten friendships, familial associations and the strengthening of the nation’s fabric. Distorted examination has the potential of entrapping the minds and making persons captive of the actions of an era that today is not being used as a barometer for moving the country forward, but a tool for settling old political grievances, perceived or real. The esteemed Nelson Mandela, who stood up against the South African apartheid regime in defence of the coloured population to be treated equally was harassed, considered a terrorist, tried and imprisoned. The Western powers led by the United States and Britain under the leadership of Ronald Regan and Margaret Thatcher supported the apartheid regime

against the will of the majority in the society. While the South African majority were denied the right to participate in electing leaders of their choice, this denial was not without the support of the two nations considered by the world as purveyors of democracy and co-founders of the United Nations, which declared all men are equal and should be treated with dignity and respect. And given this reality, the wholesale replication of the perceptions expressed by the United States and Britain has to be put into context by examining the activities of these two major players, internally and externally. For while these countries are used as standard bearers in determining acceptable and unacceptable standards of behaviour and engagement, historical and present evidence show that they too are not without blemishes. As external spotlight has been placed on Guyana’s politics, making known events of the ’60s and ’70s, there still exists the Confederate flag flying on government buildings in some southern states in the United States. The Confederate flag evokes painful memories of an era in American history characterised by racial hatred, African-Americans denied basic fundamental human rights and freedoms, such as the right to vote, free movement and to be treated equally. Recently, through activism by the citizens of South Carolina supported by national pressure, it led to actions that resulted in Governor Nikki Haley in July 2015 signing a bill to remove the flag from the Capitol grounds where it was flown since the 1960s. The point being made here is that there is nothing unusual or uncharacteristic of Guyana’s political evolution/ development, but an understanding of this can only be achieved when put into proper perspective, including doing comparative analyses with other countries, including those considered

beacons. The electoral path the country has travelled has not been without contentions and contestations. From disagreement of changing the system from First-Past-The-Post to Proportional Representation, allegations of rigged elections, refusal to accept elections results, court vitiation of elections, electoral challenges in the court, to the attempt and awarding of a seat to the wrong party are features of this society, similar to that of others. In 2008, the Barack Obama campaign had to deal with accusations of taking on characteristics of the infamous Chicago corrupt and ruthless politics. In 2000, there was the issue of the hanging chads, where Democratic candidate Al Gore was denied the presidency by 500-plus votes in an election it was generally felt he had won, because the Supreme Court controlled by Republican judges ruled to refer the matter to the Florida Republican-controlled government, who made a decision in favour of the Republican candidate, George W Bush. Notwithstanding the deficiencies in the systems of the developed societies, they use these events and pitfalls to refine and improve systems to bring about growth or preferably what they call ‘a more perfect union.’ In Guyana, there is need to be mindful that these issues are characteristics of human nature. For in looking around the world, it would be recognised that Guyana is not alone in its politics and actions; what Guyana may be alone in, is the obstinacy to be wedded to the past and refusal to put the past into context, learn from the past and move on.

National Mining Syndicate Firearm licensing process leaves room for abuse elects first female president Dear Editor THE National Mining Syndicate (NMS) on Thursday hosted its second elections and elected as its new leader, Cherryl Williams. Williams, who hails from the mining town of Bartica, replaces former NMS president Renwick Solomon, who served in that capacity for one year. She brings to the post a wealth of experience, having been involved in the mining sector for some 28 years. Williams’s team comprises Troy Duncan, who was voted in as vice-president. Carol Nurse, Dana Jones, Michael Bacchus and Carol

Fredericks were elected to serve as secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer and assistant treasurer respectively. New executive committee members are Amanda Peters, Andre Joseph, Betsy Williams, Malcolm Perreira, Troy Broomes, Sean Roberts and Aurthur Thorne. An elated Williams said, “I feel privileged to be elected not only as President of the National Mining Syndicate, but also as the first female president.” The miner said she understands that her role is not to be taken lightly and acknowledged that much work has to be done to take the syndicate and by extension, miners, forward.

“Much has to be done and I am up for the challenge,” said Williams. Meanwhile, immediate past President Renwick Solomon congratulated Williams and committed to supporting Williams and her team as they lead the mining syndicate which was established last year. Williams can be contacted on mobile number: 660-4354 or via email address, Gabrieltheresa51@ yahoo.com . The NMS elections took place at the Girl Guides Pavilion located on Brickdam, Georgetown. Regards National Mining Syndicate

Dear Editor

IF what was carried in the media is half accurate, then the unmitigated gall of Seelall Persaud in this last imbroglio is the proverbial straw. This is a man who as commissioner of police has ascribed to himself the mantle of a know-it-all. By what stroke of logic would any reasonable thinking person believe that he can approve for himself a firearms dealership licence? To my mind, the entire firearm-licensing arrangement should be reviewed, since there is still much room for abuse of the process. Editor, I admit I have an abhorrence for anything (and anyone)

resembling an abuse(er) of authority. While I am on that subject, I would suggest strongly that an audit be conducted on all vehicles assigned to the service, even if it is to ensure that none are in the hands of any one’s family member or other relative. A lot of wrong things have been happening in the force with little or no system in place to check and balance out matters. We are constantly bombarded with talk about this or that SOP; ask them to provide one SOP and you will be met with a deafening silence broken by the inanity of “well we don’t have it in writing.” What absolute crap and poppycock. Regards Gervy Grandison

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Lack of communication by Tender Board

Dear Editor

HOW can a tenderer for the provision of security services find out which security service won a security contract? I dare say that common courtesy would dictate that letters be sent to successful and unsuccessful tenderers, notifying them who were

successful and who were unsuccessful. Or does one have to wait until the winner is in the news for all the wrong reasons? Integrated Security Service is a good case in point. Incidentally, the Ministry of Communities had stated in one of its tender documents that a security service provider who won a large regional contract (Regions Three, Four and Six are

large contracts) would be awarded that contract only. Is the awarding of two regional contracts (Regions Five and Six) to Integrated Security Service in conformity with the instructions in the bid document? Why include such instructions in the document which no one adheres to and besides, no one in authority takes the time to ensure

that there is conformity? This speaks volumes of the lack of communication between the subject ministry, the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board and the evaluators; it also sends a message that no one read the bid documents in their entirety. Regards Julius Williams

Mash must return to its original route

Dear Editor,

FIRST and foremost, I ventured out to witness the Guyana Mash Celebrations 2018 to capture my ‘Kodak Moments’ and my first point of placement was the National Park, because I am almost certain that I heard the float parade was starting from that point. However, I was informed that the starting point was at Thomas Lands and Camp Road. If I am correct, it got started after 11 am instead of 10 am.

Well, that’s a norm with most events in Guyana. My first impression and my personal belief was that it was a dead zone. I was expecting persons in the hundreds taking up spots on the lawns of the National Park and the roadways, but it was not evident. The persons I saw were like a few rain drops in the Atlantic Ocean. I stand firmly and say publicly with absolutely no apology that until Mash is given back its original route of Church Street, then we will have the full

blown Mash celebrations as it should be and was over the years. I always remember the late President Hoyte and Former First Lady sitting on the balcony of their historic building enjoying the Mash Parade and waving to the citizens as they passed by. I reiterate that the National Park is the original home for the Mash Parade and I appeal to the government of the day to return that home to the general public. Perhaps they can transform the National Park and have cushioned seats for the President, government

The politics at City Hall has become rotten Dear Editor AS I read the letter written and published in the Stabroek News, captioned “Town Clerk is in control with the blessing of the Mayor and some councilors,” by Councillor Bisram Kuppen of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, this letter brought back painful memories about atrocities and dark ages of the PPP/C tenure in this beloved country, Guyana. The sins of Guyana under the PPP/C regime, Kuppen, are many; money laundering, corruption, narcotic trading, trafficking in persons, sale of State lands, organised crime, extra-judicial killings and much more. Councillor Kuppen spoke of corruption and mismanagement of the Council’s resources. Could it be that Mr Kuppen had lost his voice, vigour and pen when the PPP/C was in power? Where was Mr Kuppen when Transparency International declared that Guyana is one of the most corrupt countries in the English-speaking Caribbean? This happened under the tenure of the party Coun-

cillor Kuppen represents, the PPP/C. Therefore, Councillor Kuppen has no moral authority to speak to anyone in this nation on issues of corruption. The records show that the 2012 Annual Corruption Perception Index (CPI) placed Guyana at 133 out of a total of 174 countries. What a disgrace, and Mr Kuppen comes to the Council to lecture on mismanagement of funds. When the PPP/C’s functionary headed the administration of the Council, where was Mr Kuppen? When unsavoury characters were employed and given super-high salaries? Wasn’t it appropriate for him to speak up, since security is a main function of the City Constabulary, since all security issues, details and protocols fall under the ambit of this section of the Council? This councillor did not call for a forensic audit at City Hall when a PPP/C functionary headed the city administration; and during the tenure of that person, money belonging to a pensioner disappeared. That very administrator bought a luxury sofa for half a million

dollars from the Council’s coffers without knowledge, permission and consent of the council. Kuppen has forgotten that under the PPP/C regime, Georgetown was called the garbage city. Citizens should remember that a PPP/C minister had wished publicly that the city would have an outbreak of disease; thank goodness that his wish never became a reality. In conclusion, from my perspective, a new “dirty laundry cabal” has emerged in the Council. The fight is on for the seats of mayor and deputy mayor. It is obvious that the plan is to ridicule and discredit whom they can, so that they can have an opportunity to sit in those chairs. Their policy and objectives are consistent with lies, hypocrisy and deceit. What I have observed, is that they are also seeking to attack and discredit an honourable man in the person of Mr Oscar Clarke. I conclude that the politics at City Hall has surpassed stink, it has become rotten. Regards Peter Padmore

officials, the diplomatic corps and implement a seating facility like the Providence Stadium for citizens. If the government of the day is bent on having the Mash Parade headed to the ‘Cuffy Backdam,’I would accept, but at least return the Church Street route and they can turn off to the new venue. Also, if it is a case that the government of the day insists that they don’t wish citizens to use the mall on that day, they can have it locked off in some way and I am sure citizens will work on using the

roadways and stand around. I will admit that there were some quite impressive costumes for Mash 2018, but many of the ‘FLOATS’ were a disaster. The one that blow me away was the ‘Egyptian Queen’ in her carriage. I hope that float is rewarded with a prize. The other impressive scene was to witness a Chinese national revelling on the road. That was a knock-out. Perhaps the Chinese should be contracted to design floats for the 2019 Mash Parade. Respectfully GTT, I was totally disappointed...

When I heard that GTT was hitting the road for the 2018 Mash, my first thought was that they would be coming with a bang and would showcase a band with its newly added colour of ‘ORANGE.’..I don’t think the colour orange was evident and I wish you had contracted your independent music band, rather than merging with the Pulse Music Band. Well, perhaps funding was not available. Regards Trevor Pemberton

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Flood watch ...

All hands on deck –– as gov’t puts relief measures in place –– relevant agencies assess the damage

FOLLOWING flood conditions which left several areas inundated on the West Coast of Demerara on Friday, the Leonora Cottage Hospital has been temporarily closed and Health Centres at Den Amstel, Uitvlugt and De Kindren will be used to address medical emergencies. Two temporary relief centres have also been set up at the Uitvlugt Community Centre and the Uitvlugt Secondary School. The centres will house residents affected by the flooding, Deputy Director-General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Colonel Kester Craig has advised.

The impacted areas were visited by Acting Prime Minister, Mr Carl Greenidge; Minister of Communities, Mr Ronald Bulkan; Junior Minister of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings; and Junior Minister of Public Infrastructure, Ms Annette Ferguson. According to reports, the health centres at Den Amstel and Uitvlugt are now operating on a 24-hour basis, while members of the Guyana Police Force will increase their patrols in the affected areas. An assessment of the damage done so far by the tidal activity indicates that at the Ocean View Housing Scheme at Stewartville, 32

The scene late yesterday as waves pounded the Den Amstel sea defence (Photos by Alva Solomon) households have been affected by flooding. And at the seashore at Ocean View, some of the boulders have been displaced from their original position by the wave activity. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Tuschen-Uitvlugt Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Mr Vishal Ambedkar is gathering dam-

age information there. So far, several household appliances have been damaged, and wood and concrete fences destroyed. The wave was reported to be in excess of 25 feet high, and travelled a distance of over 50 feet to the roofs of some homes. This event happened at approximately 03:30 hours on

Friday morning. The CDC will be deploying 100 camp cots, 100 blankets, 100 pillows, cooking utensils and meals to the area, and this will be distributed between the two shelters at Uitvlugt. Hot meals will be provided for the affected from Friday evening until Monday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Painting the town, Holi style

--in a profusion of riotous colour

By Vishani Ragobeer IT’S Phagwah morning in Georgetown and to anyone unfamiliar with the holiday’s celebrations here, there is a sheer explosion of colour and water and people bunched together. The Hindu festival is most popularly known as the Festival of Colours. And while not only Hindus celebrate the festival in Guyana, it definitely earns the right to be called the Festival of Colours. If you just want an idea of what Phagwah’s really like, take a trip through Albouystown. The Guyana Chronicle took the drive and found that the streets were filled with children and some adults soaking each other with water. A word of caution! You should keep your windows up if you have every intention of staying dry. At least for now. It didn’t matter who you were, or what you drove, the children were just excited to greet you -- with a bucket of water! They ran up to the vehicle, urging you to join them outside, too. And they were very convincing; some even blowing you kisses through the win-

dow. Or travel to Cummings Lodge on the lower East Coast, where you’d be convinced that everyone is inside their homes enjoying the festive cuisine, until you see people grouped together, just chilling, in the streets. The Guyana Chronicle met a group of male friends all eager to have their photos published in this newspaper. But the highlight was seeing one of them covered all over in what appeared to be more than powder or water. Then, as the day wore on, it was amazing how fast people filled Station Street, Kitty. At around 13:00hrs, there were a few families and friends gathering on the street, but after 14:00hrs, there was barely space to walk freely. More than that, it was impossible to stay dry, since there were persons spraying water at you; spraying water in the air; and actual overhead sprinklers. Towards the end of the day, thousands descended on the National Stadium tarmac just outside Georgetown, where Inspire Inc., for the seventh year in a row, put on a gigantic Phagwah mela,

An overhead shot of the action in Station Street, Kitty

replete with melodies and dances from local talent. According to the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, Yog Mahadeo, “The aim of this show is to have persons come together in their numbers in one place and celebrate and have good, clean fun together.” Even as the day was drawing near to its end, pa-

trons remained energetic, dancing to Indian, Chutney or sweet Soca music. A walk through the masses indicated that scores had turned out with their families or friends, but in the spirit of the season, each passerby was greeted with a dash of powder across the face, or cold water down the back. You could’ve stayed at

the stadium and enjoyed the vibes, but there was just one more hotspot to visit. The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha held their family-friendly Phagwah mela at the Everest Cricket Ground, and featured local and foreign Indian talents. At around 18:00hrs when it was pitch black, floodlights illuminated the

cricket ground and patrons seemed to have no intention of heading home any time soon. Powder was thrown in the air and almost made you forget how late it was. Eventually, the cool sea breeze all but complemented the soaked clothes, and the curtain had come down on the festival of colours.

More photos on page 17 ►

At the Inspire Inc grand mela at the National Stadium

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

CDB pumps $42M into local gov’t development –– bank’s economic director says local organs have potential to accelerate economic growth

GUYANA’S local democratic system is set to benefit from an upgrade through institutional strengthening and capacity building for local government reform, with a grant from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to the tune of US$218,020 (approximately GY$42 million). Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, signed on to the CDB grant agreement, which paved the way for capacity building for the local government reform project. The signing between the

minister and the Director of the CDB’s Economics Department, Dr Justin Ram, took place at the Cara Lodge in the presence of Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, mayors and representatives of local government organs on Thursday. Bulkan explained that since the ‘A Partnership for National Unity’ and ‘Alliance For Change’ (APNU+AFC) was elected to office in 2015, their focus has been to reform the local democratic system in order to ensure that municipalities and other local organs have the autonomy and liberty to

function effectively. He said the project is timely and in line with national priorities regarding local government reform. Some aspects of reform to which the minister alluded during his remarks included the renewal of democratic credentials of councils and financial sustainability of the councils, among others. The project he said will address some of those areas especially, since focus will be placed on ensuring that the municipalities have the resources to deliver on reform; improve the approach

Director of the CDB’s Economics Department, Dr Justin Ram (left) and Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, signing the grant agreement at Cara Lodge on Thursday (Samuel Maughn photo) to service delivery and Dr Ram also emphasised facing the local communithe Guyana Association the importance of good gov- ties. of Municipalities (GAM); ernance for good developWhile they might know highlight areas of coopera- ment, noting that the project the challenges, he said that tion and potential synergies was implemented at an im- during an appraisal of the that will reduce public ex- portant time in the country’s local municipalities six penditure. development cycle. months ago, they discovered “The project will help Like the minister, he that local organs face many organs to address vulner- spoke about the importance challenges such as access to able groups; build skills of local government reform funds; lack of the technical and create employment op- at a time when Guyana’s know-how and understandportunities… look at so- revenue will increase with ing how to utilise resources, cio-economic, sector and the advent of the new in- among others. gender disparities,” said the dustry. Despite the challenges, minister, adding that it will The director of the Dr Ram believes that local also promote sustainable CDB’s economics depart- government could be more economic development and ment believes that local than a conduit for the proviso forth. government has the poten- sion of central services and Five towns were chosen tial to accelerate economic instead work closer with by the CDB to be a part of the project and those were Georgetown, Linden, Bartica, New Amsterdam and Lethem. Minister Bulkan said the selection is a representation of government’s commitment to ensuring that there is a decentralised model of governance. “The grant for capacity building speaks to the tools that are necessary to equip the organs and meaningfully empower them,” he said. Once the organs are equipped, he believes that they will be able to discharge their lawful responsibilities properly and as Finance Minister Winston Jordan hands over the opposed to the past, without signed agreement to Minister of Communities, undue interference by cen- Ronald Bulkan, whose ministry will benefit from tral government. In addition, considering the grant economic prospects with the budding oil industry, he said growth, once it is managed communities to find soluit is also necessary that there carefully to ensure maxi- tions to various problems. is proper governance, so mum benefit to the Guya“We will support the that Guyana does not follow nese people and business ministry and respective the path of economies that community. municipalities to strengthsuffered the resource curse. “Local government can en the local government “Local government is a help transform the economy framework…we hope to vital part of public admin- as Guyana looks for growth make a solid start with the istration, since it deals with opportunities in the hin- project,” he explained, addthe efficient and effective terland,” he said, pointing ing that the CDB is optimisdelivery of local services out that local organs have tic that the project will be that can contribute to pov- immediate access to their a catalyst for local governerty reduction,” the minister respective areas and also ment improvement across explained. know about the challenges the Caribbean Region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Guyanese-American delegation ends successful Cuba tour

A 50-member Guyanese delegation from the diaspora in the United States has ended a week-long people-to-people visit to Cuba during which they enjoyed the open friendship and warm hospitality of the Cuban people. The delegation, comprising members of the Sunshine State Softball Cricket Association (SSSCA) and the Guyanese-American Chamber of Commerce (GACC), visited Cuba as part of the 48th Republic Anniversary celebrations, as well as celebrations marking the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Guyana and Cuba. The visitors opened their encounter last Thursday in the city of Holguín, which is home to hundreds of Cubans who visit Guyana to engage in trading. While there, members of the delegation interacted with Cuban children and adults who displayed their cultural talents in the city square. Later, the team travelled for three

are the World.” The band hopes to be able to perform in Guyana in the not-too-distant future. Scores of people from the community flocked the small hall and the streets surrounding the venue to view and listen to the performances. Speaking through a translator, the director, members of the band, and community members thanked Guyana for assisting with the formation of the band, which has since received additional assistance from Guyana’s CARICOM sister nation-- Trinidad and Tobago. This was followed by a meeting at the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce of Santiago, at which welcoming remarks were delivered by its executive director, Ms Alba Luis Blanco Mendez. A response was made on behalf of the visitors by Mr Wesley Kirton. The chamber celebrated its 55th anniversary on February 23rd. The Hotel Melia in Santiago was the venue for Guyana’s Republic Anniversary celebration

Members of the SSSCA and the GACC at the presentation of trophies following the cricket competition between teams from South Florida and Cuba hours by road to Santiago de Cuba. On Friday, February 23, Guyana’s Republic Day, the SSSCA played two softball cricket matches against a Cuban team and against another comprising Caribbean students studying at universities in Santiago de Cuba, both of which were won by the visitors. An appreciative gathering, including a group of schoolchildren, watched the matches amidst a musical performance by a local guitarist/singer, one of whose renditions was a song he composed, titled Guyana. On Friday, some of the visitors also interacted with Cubans at the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, where the remains of several of Cuba’s heroes, including the ashes of Fidel Castro, are entombed. They witnessed the changing-of-theguard ceremony at the memorial. Some four decades ago, the Government of Guyana donated a set of steel pans to the Cuban community in Santiago de Cuba, as well as provided two steel pan tuners to assist with the launch of Cuba’s first steel orchestra. On Friday afternoon, two of the organisers of the visit, Guyana’s Honorary Consul for Florida, Ramzan Roshanali, and president of the GACC, Wesley Kirton, were guests at a special event where performances were given by both the children and adult sections of the steel band. Both sections performed a variety of popular Cuban, Caribbean and American songs, including “We

on Friday evening. Sponsored by Surinam Airways, which is the only airline currently providing non-stop service to Guyana from Florida, some 200 guests gathered for the event. Remarks were made by Mr Ramzan Roshanali, Mr Wesley Kirton, and a message was sent by Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, Mr Halim Majeed, who is currently hospitalised. Ms Maria Adams, director of international affairs of the City of Santiago, spoke on behalf of the government and people of Cuba. The Guyanese visitors left Santiago de Cuba on Saturday morning via aircraft for Havana, where they enjoyed the rich culture of the Cuban people at the internationally famous Tropicana on Saturday night. On Monday, the interaction took the form of a cricket match which was won by the visiting team. On Tuesday, the visitors were received by the Cuban Chamber of Commerce, during which they were brought up to date on the activities of the chamber. Later, a courtesy call was paid to Ambassador Majeed at the hospital at which he is recovering well after recent surgery and then they visited the Guyana Embassy, where they heard an impromptu presentation from Guyana’s Housing Minister, Ms Valerie Patterson-Yearwood. (This report was written by Ms Abbisola Oxley and is made possible through the support of Surinam Airways and DMC Travel)

Guyana’s Housing Minister, Valerie Patterson-Yearwood (standing fourth right) with members of the GACC delegation during a visit to the Embassy of Guyana in Havana, Cuba

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Town Clerk appeals to relatives for maintenance of tombs …stench from broken ones posing health risks to nearby residents

THE deplorable state of tombs within Le Repentir cemetery poses a grave public health issue for residents living in communities nearby. Town Clerk Royston King is calling on persons whose relatives have been buried at the location to visit

City Hall to discuss the way forward in terms of rehabilitating broken tombs. King said in some cases, bones of the dead are visible and noted too that sections of the cemetery are water-logged. “We need to pay more attention to our cemeteries, particularly Le Repentir

Cemetery. I am very worried about what is happening at that cemetery at this particular point in time…if you go now, you will see where we have already cleared…all the tombs are broken. This has huge potential for serious public health consequences,” King told reporters this week.

Broken tombs at Le Repentir cemetery. Stagnant water is also visible in the cemetery (Samuel Maughn photo)

He said too that at certain parts of the cemetery, a strong stench emanates and this he said poses serious threats to the health of those who live and traverse the area. Currently, City Hall is working on a programme whereby relatives of those who are buried at the cemetery, are being invited to talk with officials about the repair of their relatives’ tombs. “We are really in a bad shape,” declared King, who said that as part of the programme, City Hall intends to donate materials to help relatives fix the tombs of their loved ones. “It won’t cost them anything other than coming on board with us, accepting the donations and fixing the tombs of their loved ones,” King said. Though City Hall has not budgeted for the programme, the town clerk said, Council is seeking donations from civil society and the business community to forge ahead with the programme. “It is a really serious thing when you look at the condition of the cemetery. As town clerk, I am bothered and I think we need to do something about it,” he stated. King said all spots are identifiable and noted that if relatives do not come forward to assist in the repairs of their loved ones’ tombs, then City Hall will be forced to take up that responsibility. “On our own we would have to do the tombs…they can be identified, because we have cleared that area. If the relatives do not come forward, we would have to take the responsibility to repair those tombs.”

The town clerk explained that relatives are supposed to maintain the tombs of their loved ones, but in most cases, this does not happen. “They should, but they don’t…that is why we have to put a new arrangement in place to secure the integrity of these tombs. We have broken tombs and in some cases you are seeing bones,” he said, noting that Le Repentir is in a state of emergency. “…No responsible council could sit idly by and allow a cemetery to continue to exist like that in almost the middle of the city…this is the capital! I am appealing and calling on relatives…to come forward and talk with us, so we can get ahead with repairing those tombs and painting them…so as to secure the integrity of the cemetery.” Like King, residents of North-East La Penitence, Princes Street and along Cemetery Road are also concerned about the state of the cemetery. Requesting anonymity, residents told the Guyana Chronicle that the situation is worsening. “Is like nobody ain’t care…I ain’t know is who responsible, but people just bury their families and don’t turn back. Look the other day I sitting on my step and heard one of them lil boys say look bones in the tomb…this should never happen,” said a resident of Princes Street. Another resident told the Guyana Chronicle that she has young children who have been ill frequently over the past few months. She attributes their ailment to the “dirty environment” at the cemetery. “I don’t know why City

Hall can’t do something about this. This place stink… first we had to deal with the garbage site and now is the broken tombs and stench coming from them. Every two morning my children sick…it is frustrating. I need them to do something; this is not healthy,” the frustrated woman told the Guyana Chronicle. Another resident of Cemetery Road said while he cannot see broken tombs from where he lives, he gets a strong stench frequently which he believes comes from the cemetery. “This never used to happen…but as of late, it really stinks and when it is breezy, Lord help us,” the man said as he called on the relevant authorities to remedy the situation. “It is unsafe for us and our children,” he added. Meanwhile, under the Municipal and District Council Act 28:01, the council has the responsibility for establishing, maintaining and controlling burial grounds and crematoriums. In addition, the Office of the Sexton has burial registers which contain the names of persons buried, the dates of burials, and the locations of the places of burial within the cemetery. Burial registers often serve as an important resource for genealogy. Le Repentir Cemetery was first established in March, 1861. Subsequently, a road was constructed through the cemetery to link La Penitence with Lodge, Wortmanville and Werk-enRust. The first person interred at Le Repentir Cemetery was Antonio Gonzales, 45, on March 15, 1861. He was from Madeira.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Electrical contractors challenged to embrace correct practices …as country prepares to ‘go green’

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson encourages correct practices in the electrical sector

ELECTRICAL inspectors, workers, students from technical institutes and other organisations were encouraged to follow correct practices while pursuing the “Green Economy” initiative at the 5TH Annual Electrical Conference yesterday. The event, held at the Umana Yana under the theme ‘Embracing a Green Energy Sector to Power a Green Economy’, was hosted

“It has been reported that they are a number of persons going around the country, calling themselves electrical contractors, when they know they are not certified by the GEI. I want to admonish you that all electrical contractors must be certified,” she stated. She further encouraged representatives from the electricity sector to be a part of Guyana’s “green” progressions by complying with

and green model town” as it recently opened its solar-powered West Indian Housing Scheme Park, a $31M project funded by the government. She concluded: “As we can see, solar energy is really the future for Guyana. Your government will continue to invest more in solar energy to meet the demand of new technologies. I wish you a fruitful and successful conference.” SAFETY IS KEY Even as Guyana intends to move forward as a ‘Green State’ the government understands that ‘safety is key’ and, as such, GFS Fire Prevention Officer, Andrew Holder was invited to speak on fire hazards associated with solar-powered systems. Holder said that the installation of solar-powered systems also known as photovoltaic (PV) systems

The Umana Yana was filled to capacity with students, members and organisations in the electrical field (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

by the Government Electoral Inspectorate (GEI), which comes under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. It saw the attendance of organisations such as the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), and the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC). In delivering the feature address, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Anette Ferguson established solar energy as Guyana’s future and called for an increased importance to be placed on eliminating ill electrical practices. Ferguson said that the common notion that GPL is responsible for all homes destroyed by electrical fire is not always true as faulty electrical products sold by stores across the country continue to play a significant role.

the National Electrical Code (NEC) as well as the Electricity Sector Regulations Act. “As we ‘Embrace a Green Energy Sector to Power a Green Economy’, I would like you to remember, that this initiative by your government is all inclusive. It means that you as electrical contractors, business owners and suppliers of electrical products must follow these standards,” Ferguson implored. Providing an update for works conducted in 2017, she said that a total of 178.5 Kilowatts (kW) of new solar photovoltaic (PV) installations were completed enabling eight secondary schools, the National Library, the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), State House and other agencies to be solar powered. Bartica too, she said, continues to progress towards becoming a “clean

brings about a new dimension of fire safety, firefighting and fire response for the fire service. This is one of the main reasons the GFS discourages private home owners and contractors from attempting to extinguish PV fires without first contacting the fire department. He revealed that when solar panels are exposed to sunlight, they cannot be turned off, and further explained: “In the event of an emergency situation, such as a flood, storm or a fire, solar panels continue to produce lethal amount of direct current (DC) voltage.” Although the most standard means of extinguishing fires in Guyana is water, for solar panels, the GFS utilizes foam which is able to eliminate the risk of high voltages and this method was demonstrated by members of the GFS. Speaking, too, was

Chief Electrical Inspector of the Electrical Inspectorate Division, Arnold Barclay who said that this

accomplishment of a safe electrical industry is not only the responsibility of the GEI but of other agen-

cies, organizations and personnel. Along with the Turn to page 14 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

UG Public Management students maintain Shirley Field-Ridley playfield

PUBLIC Management students of the University of Guyana (UG) have been engaged in the rehabilitation of community grounds and other facilities, as part of their Municipal and Re-

gional Government course. Donna McKinnon, Head of Department for Government and International Affairs and the lecturer for Local Municipal and Regional Government course, told the

Guyana Chronicle on Friday that this is the first time she has decided to have her students engage in the practical aspect of the course. She explained that there are several groups of approx-

imately 12 students each who are engaged in community projects across Regions Three and Four. “They have been given a project as part of their course assessment this year and so, in different communities, we have students who have chosen a project,” said the lecturer, who was at the time at the Shirley Field-Ridley Square, where a group of her students were busy rehabilitating that community’s playground. That playground has been in a state of disrepair since the early 2000s, residents said and since then, the children of the community have not been able to benefit from it. Though the projects are not funded by the University of Guyana, the students have reached out to civil society, the business community and residents for assistance. “The students have taken it upon themselves mostly to engage the community, fund- raise, approach sponsors for donations…and so that’s how they are being funded …not by the university, but through their own means of funding.” The project should be completed by the second week in April, McKinnon stated. She added that some of the students are working in North Ruimveldt, Plaisance, and Diamond in Region Four, as well as communities in Region Three. Further, the lecturer noted that several orphanages will benefit from the projects. “Local government should not just be theoretical – they are expected to go into the community and do these things…if we want to have them involved in the community, these things are necessary. These are ways they can start contributing to their communities,” she said.

Students and lecturers of the University of Guyana began rehabilitation work on the Shirley Field-Ridley Square playground on Friday

The students have received permission from the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to execute their projects. Meanwhile, Sandra Barker, a resident of Shirley Field-Ridley Square, told the Guyana Chronicle that she is pleased that the students of the University of Guyana have chosen her community. “I think it is a very good initiative and it should give impetus to the community to continue the good work… to maintain and sustain the effort, so that as the President said, we can have a real green space in Shirley

Field-Ridley.” Barker, who started living in Shirley Field-Ridley Square in the 1990s, said the playground went into a state of disrepair in the early 2000s. “I guess the young people that grew up in the community with their parents a lot of them have migrated, and you have new persons coming in--- this effort should motivate persons to really maintain it,” she stated. Like Ms Barker, other residents are happy that the playground is being rehabilitated. From page 13 ►

Electrical contractors ... support of the GFS, he listed the GNBS, insurance companies, manufacturing companies, utility companies and technical institutes as some of the entities whose participation would be required. Meanwhile, Department of Environment Officer, Aretha Ford delivered a presentation on the government’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) intended to

be the country’s long-term national development plan. She said that the green economy rests on the three pillars of the economy, environment and society and shared Barclay’s stance that in order for Guyana to accomplish its goals, both its citizens and government needed to work together. “’Going Green’ is not about a colour, it’s about

a concept. The rest of the world is embracing a green economy and in order for Guyana to advance…we all need to get on board,” she said. Ford later added: “The way we will get there is to have meaningful input into the GSDS, it’s to follow the GSDS once it’s crafted… Our development is something that is worth fighting for.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

President Granger hails Phagwah as a unifying festival for Guyanese

AMIDST the colours, songs and dances, President David Granger celebrated Phagwah and highlighted that the festival is one which fosters unity in Guyana. Speaking at the celebrations hosted by the Indian High Commission, at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) in Bel Air, Georgetown, the President noted that Phagwah (or Holi as it is otherwise known) is not a festival celebrated by Hindus only, but by Guyanese of all walks of life. “We feel in Guyana that this is a unifying festival for us,” he said. The President also drew from remarks

given earlier in the day by opposition member Priya Manickchand, on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo. He acknowledged that Phagwah is a “great equaliser.” “When I come here, I am no longer President, I’m just an object of abeer and abrack and we’re all the same today,” he said and noted that the festival serves as a medium for cohesion within Guyana’s multi-ethnic society. He joked too that he has probably never been greeted in so friendly a manner by so many members of the opposition. According to him, Guy-

ana is a multicultural country and will always be, since “when yuh mix, yuh can’t unmix’. To this end, he stressed, “We appreciate the differences among the people in this diverse country; we appreciate that festivals like this foster unity rather than disunity.” In May, Guyana will be celebrating 180 years of the arrival of East Indians to Guyana. The festival of colours -- known as Holi worldwide, but called Phagwah in Guyana due to the influence of the Bhojpuri indians -- presents a wider scope of culture in Guyana. And the President expressed his pride that indi-

Children playing at the Indian Cultural Centre

President David Granger and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Venkatachalam Mahalingam, engage in a conversation at the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) after the Phagwah celebrations

ans, and more importantly Guyanese, have been able to maintain the tradition of Phagwah. Phagwah, according to the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam, is a festival of many significant elements. It ushers in the season of spring, it celebrates the triumph of good over evil and represents love. Adding to this, President Granger noted that many persons regard the festival as a sacred one, but it also functions as a “social festival” in the Guyanese context. President Granger posited, “Regardless of the religious significance, it is clearly one that is popular. Popular because of its vitality and popular because all of us could share in it without feeling like it is intruding

Chowtal singing was part of the programme put on by the Indian High Commission

in our personal religious beliefs.” With the advent of regional radio stations in Mabaruma, Mahdia, Lethem and Bartica, President Granger also advanced that unity and cohesion can be further fostered through the festival and its music could be broadcast in those locations. He mentioned that he sees no reason why people in Lethem should not be listening to the music enjoyed by those in Georgetown. “I do believe that a festival like this helps to break down barriers, it helps to make us understand that we Guyanese have come from different backgrounds, but we have a common destiny,” he said, urging all to embrace the festival and its celebrations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

QC students celebrate Phagwah

STUDENTS of Queen’s College celebrated Phagwah on Thursday, as the school’s Hindu Society hosted its annual Phagwah show and celebrations. Beginning at 13:00hrs, the show featured an afternoon of storytelling, dancing and singing in observance of the national holiday. Hindus were joined by the wider school population in celebrating the Holi (or Phagwah as it is normally called). Holi is observed for many reasons. It signals the beginning of spring and is

called the festival of colours and it is also called the festival of love, because of the timeless love story of the Gods: Radha and Krishna. It also advances the triumph of good over evil. This year, the show was structured around the classic ‘Radha Krishna’ love story. As in Bollywood movies, songs and dances would be cohesively weaved into the story enacted by the students. Upon the completion of the formal programme, the ‘tassa’ drums signalled

the commencement of the most anticipated aspect of the day’s celebrations- i.e., playing Phagwah on the lawns. Here, all students came together to douse each other in water or smear their friends’ faces with the coloured powder. According to the President of the Society and Sixth Form student, Akarshini Singh, “The show brought out the spirit of Holi in the college and united the student population.”

Models who took part in the school’s annual Phagwah show

The finale of the Queen’s College Hindu Society (QCHS)’s annual Phagwah show

Students playing Phagwah in QC

PPP urges Guyanese to heed pertinent messages of Phagwah AS Guyanese at home and abroad, especially the Hindu community, celebrate the joyous festival of Holi or Phagwah, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings to all on this occasion. Holi is a festival that has truly become national and one that is most anticipated, having transcended religious boundaries. This is manifested through the participation of a wide cross-section of Guyanese throughout the country. The fun and frolic that have come to be associated with it remain a catalyst for

the forging of harmony among all of our people. The kaleidoscope of colours that exemplify the celebrations, heralds the dawn of spring, reminding not only of nature’s beauty, but the vibrancy of our rich diversity. Our party urges all Guyanese to heed the pertinent message of this festival – that of the triumph of good over evil. The story of Prahalad reinforces that hope must always remain alive for in the end, evil will ultimately be defeated.

Shubh Holi to all!

The show culminated in a grand school-wide ‘playing’ of Phagwah. Students assembled on the lawns for a photo

Man of the cloth to stand trial shortly --for alleged rape of one of his flock COME March 13, the paper committal against Bishop Joseph Persaud, who is charged for allegedly raping one of his female church members at his Diamond, East Bank Demerara home, is expected to commence. The matter will be presided over by senior Magistrate Leron Daley at the Georgetown Magistrates Court. Persaud, 32, was charged for the offence in January 2018, but was released on $350,000 bail. According to reports, the 22-year-old victim had once been in a relationship with Persaud, but ended it after his wife found out about the affair. It is, however, alleged that even after the relationship was terminated, Persaud, who is the bishop of a church in La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, kept calling the woman’s phone

and stalking her. It was further reported that Persaud, during October 2017, invited the woman to his home for counselling, but raped her instead. Reports are, too, that while Persaud was arrested and placed in custody at the Diamond Police Station, he called the victim’s phone to persuade her to drop the charge. A recording of that conversation was released by HGPTV Nightly News, and the Bishop could be heard telling the victim, “Would you come to the station and drop this matter? I let go of you; there is no more me and you anymore. “You can go your way for free. I’ll make a paper with the JP today; I will no longer call you or look in your direction…not a text or a message to you.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday March 3, 2018

Painting the town ...

Inspire Inc patrons showing the love

These young men were thoroughly enjoying the musical selection at the Stadium (Photos by Vishani Ragobeer)

A group of friends at the National Stadium

Playing Phagwah in Cummings Lodge

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Greaves set free of Christmas Day murder MARK Trevor Greaves walked out of the Georgetown High Court a free man after a no-case submission made by his defence attorney George Thomas was upheld by Justice Navindra Singh on Thursday. As such, the judge directed the 12-member jury to return a formal not guilty verdict in favour of the accused. After the judge told Greaves that he was free to go, since he was freed of the James Street, Albouystown killing which took place on Christmas Day in 2015, the man calmly exited the court smiling. Justice Singh told Greaves that there was insufficient evidence for the case to go forward and he was free to go. The state’s case was led by Abigail Gibbs, who told the court that Freed: Mark the accused, Mark Trevor Greaves Greaves was held for the December 25, 2015 murder of Winston Fredericks called “Fluffy” in the county of Demerara. The accused had pleaded not guilty. The state called nine witnesses to take the stand. In her opening statement, the prosecutor told the court that the accused reportedly stabbed the deceased during a heated argument. She added that the men had a row and during the exchange, the accused reportedly inflicted the fatal stab wound on the deceased, who did odd jobs in the area. The state called its first witness, Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan who testified that he performed the postmortem on the body of the deceased on December 31, 2018 at the Georgetown Public Hospital mortuary. Dr. Brijmohan told the court that he observed a stab wound to the left upper neck near the ear lobe on the body of the deceased. He gave the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage as a result of a stab wound.

Much fun as Region Two schools celebrate Phagwah THOUSANDS of Region Two students from all walks of life on Thursday joined in celebrating the ancient Hindu festival of Colours--Phagwah. Schools in the region organised special Phagwah programmes to observe the national holiday which was officially celebrated yesterday. Children were told of the significance of the festival and many of them engaged in chowtaal singing. At the Suddie Primary School, scores of students were given a special treat by the Essequibo Dharmic Nawjawan. The group distributed powder to the students as part of activities to celebrate the festival. The message of Phagwah was delivered by Vice President of the Dharmic Nawjawan Reema Natram at the Suddie Primary School. She urged the students to celebrate the festival to the fullest, noting that Phagwah is the celebration of good over evil. At the end of the programme, the students used the opportunity to smear each other with coloured powder. Members from the Essequibo Nawjawan also mingled with the children and exchanged wishes.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Starc leads the charge against South Africa (Reuters) - A devastating spell of swing bowling by Australia’s Mitchell Starc may well grab the second-day headlines, but it was his namesake who laid the platform for a commanding 189-run, first innings lead in the first test against South Africa.

his side’s first innings total of 351, could yet prove pivotal on what is an abrasive wicket that offers assistance with both the new and the old ball. “It was an important innings and I was proud how I was able to bat with the tail,” Marsh told reporters at the

Marsh’s innings laid the platform for an above-par Australian total, before Starc (5-34) and spinner Nathan Lyon (3-50) skittled out their hosts - who lost their last five wickets for just 12 runs - for 162. Marsh believes that when Starc gets the ball to reverse-swing, there is little a tail can do, while Lyon’s strike-rate in the last year has been a perfect foil for the team’s pace attack. “When you are bowling at (Starc’s) pace it’s almost impossible to play and his (Lyon’s) last 12 months has been amazing. You know he

is always going to have an impact.” AB de Villiers, who struck a brilliant 71 not out as South African wickets fell all around him, believes his side are not out of the test yet. “Australia had a really good intensity about them,” he said. “...But it’s not all lost. Some guys looked really good out there and we just didn’t convert. We came up just short. The wicket is getting harder by the day and it won’t be easy for them (Australia) to bat out there tomorrow.”

SCOREBOARD

South Africa trail Australia by 189 runs Australia 1st innings Cameron Bancroft c Quinton de Kock b Vernon Philander 5 David Warner c AB de Villiers b Vernon Philander 51 Usman Khawaja c Quinton de Kock b Kagiso Rabada 14 Steven Smith c AB de Villiers b Keshav Maharaj 56 Shaun Marsh c AB de Villiers b Keshav Maharaj 40 Mitchell Marsh c Morne Morkel b Vernon Philander 96 Tim Paine c Quinton de Kock b Kagiso Rabada 25 Pat Cummins b Keshav Maharaj 3 Mitchell Starc b Keshav Maharaj 35 Nathan Lyon c Theunis de Bruyn b Keshav Maharaj 12 Josh Hazlewood Not Out 2 Extras: 4b 8lb 0nb 0pen 0w 12 Total: (110.4 overs) 351 all out Fall of Wickets: 1-15 Bancroft, 2-39 Khawaja, 3-95 Warner, 4-151 Smith, 5-177 Marsh, 6-237 Paine, 7-251 Cummins, 8-300 Starc, 9-341 Marsh, 10-351 Lyon

AB de Villiers went on the counter-attack to keep South Africa moving, South Africa v Australia, 1st Test, Durban, 2nd day, March 2, 2018

Middle-order batsman, Mitchell Marsh compiled an excellent 96 in Durban, falling just short of a third test century when, in search of a boundary, he miscued a Vernon Philander delivery to Morne Morkel at mid-on. But the 114 runs he added with the Australian tail in

close of play.“I have worked extremely hard on my defence and keeping the good balls out. That’s given me a lot more confidence to be patient. “I used to be quite intense at the crease every ball, it wears you out. I try to keep my mind clear and it seems to have helped me.”

Bowling Morne Morkel 22-3-75-0-3.41, Vernon Philander 27 -12-59-3-2.19, Keshav Maharaj 33.4-5-123-5-3.65, Kagiso Rabada 25-7-74-2-2.96, Aiden Markram 1-0-2-0-2.00, Theunis de Bruyn 2-0-6-0-3.00 ............................................................... South Africa 1st innings Dean Elgar c&b Nathan Lyon 7 Aiden Markram c Cameron Bancroft b Pat Cummins 32 Hashim Amla c Cameron Bancroft b Nathan Lyon 0 AB de Villiers Not Out 71 Faf du Plessis c Tim Paine b Mitchell Starc 15 Theunis de Bruyn c Tim Paine b Mitchell Starc 6 Quinton de Kock b Nathan Lyon 20 Vernon Philander c Tim Paine b Mitchell Starc 8 Keshav Maharaj b Josh Hazlewood 0 Kagiso Rabada lbw Mitchell Starc 3 Morne Morkel b Mitchell Starc 0 Extras: 0b 0lb 0nb 0pen 0w 0 Total: (51.4 overs) 162 all out Fall of Wickets : 1-27 Elgar, 2-27 Amla, 3-55 Markram, 4-92 du Plessis, 5-108 de Bruyn, 6-150 de Kock, 7-158 Philander, 8-159 Maharaj, 9-162 Rabada, 10-162 Morkel Bowling: Mitchell Starc 10.4-3-34-5-3.19, Josh Hazlewood 13-5-311-2.38, Nathan Lyon 16-3-50-3-3.12, Pat Cummins 12-2-47-1-3.92

13:10 hrs Author’s Dream

American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park Race 1 Wishfully Race 2 Kikinboy Race 3 Perfect Tay Race 4 Daring Duchess Race 5 Celestine Race 6 Maraud Race 7 Amertume Race 8 Take Charge Paula Race 9 Croninthebarbarian Race10 Galleon Mast Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 08:35 hrs Ajraam 09:10 hrs Sultanaa

09:45 hrs Storyboard 10:20 hrs Pupil 10:55 hrs Mister Parma 11:30 hrs Galesburg 12:05 hrs Murrayfield South Africa Racing Tips Kenilworth 08:27 hrs Robert Frost 09:02 hrs Kampala Campari 09:37 hrs Count Rosberg 10:12 hrs Bendy Bullet 10:47 hrs Commander Bond 11:22 hrs Quickfire 11:55 hrs Know The Ropes 12:25 hrs Elusive Touch

Turffontein 08:50 hrs Will Pays 09:25 hrs Emily Jay 10:00 hrs Fish River 10:35 hrs Ideal Secret 11:10 hrs Dromedaris 11:40 hrs Zouaves 12:10 hrs Layren Of Rochelle English Racing Tips Lingfield 09:45 hrs Chevallier 10:20 hrs Iballisticvin 10:55 hrs Atletico 11:30 hrs Bengali Boys 12:00 hrs Roy’s Legacy 12:35 hrs Porrima

Newcastle 10:05 hrs Bournville 10:40 hrs Ballycrystal 11;15 hrs Ahesd Of The Cyrve 11:50 hrs Forest Bihan 12:20 hrs Golden Jeffrey 12:55 hrs Ballyvic Boru 13:30 hrs Jamacho Chelmsford City 13:45 hrs Kodiac Express 14:15 hrs Jellmood 14:45 hrs Ocean Of Love 15:15 hrs Excellent George 15:45 hrs Rock On Baileys 16:15 hrs Pulsating 16:45 hrs Ravenhoe

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

FIFA’S REGIONAL DIRECTOR CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL VISIT TO GUYANA “Overall, I think it was a very successful trip. A lot of times you speak with the MA’s to try to get an understanding as to what they are doing. It’s good to be on the ground, the positives I saw included lots and lots of kids playing football in Guyana. Additionally, there are many programs, at both youth and senior level, which allow the playing of the game in Guyana. I spoke to President Forde and the GFF about their plans for the future, what they will do, some applications for funding for some of the programmes they would like to do, but you don’t really get an understanding (of each MA’s uniqueness) until you are on the ground. I’m very impressed by what the GFF is doing with their limited

resources. We are aware they are trying to get out of their compliance issues they found themselves in, once those are resolved, which should be achieved shortly, I think we will see a lot of development here. I saw the U15 competition at some of the different Regional Associations and I was very impressed by the standards, especially the one in Georgetown. I see the level of the senior players tonight that also shows that football here is at a very good standard, and I am hoping in the next couple years, with the launch of the grassroots programme and more youth development programmes that GFF and Guyana will be a football force in the Caribbean.” MARLON GLEAN - FIFA Regional

Director on Sunday, 25th Feb, as he wrapped up his visit to Guyana. Glean conducted his first official visit to Guyana from Feb 23 - 26, 2018. During this time, the newly-appointed Regional Director participated in, among others, two media events (the Scotiabank Bursary Awards and launch of the GFF-Guyana Beverages Inc.’s “Kool Kidz” Grassroots programme respectively), visited the construction site of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (FIFA Forward Progarmme), Providence and two GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centres (ATC), viewed a match of the GFFPele Alumni Frank Watson U15 Intra-Association tournament and a double-header of the GFF Elite League.

MARLON GLEAN

GFF ELITE LEAGUE CONTINUES TOMORROW:

WAYNE DOVER, INTERIM

HEAD COACH PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE

For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096

e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Rutherford excited about CPL 2018 By Rajiv Bisnauth

Sherfane Rutherford was one of the stand-out for the Guyana Jaguars in the just-concluded Super50 tournament.

THE emergence of young Sherfane Rutherford as a future star was given a major boost, when the talented all-rounder from the citybased Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), was snapped up by the Guyana Amazon Warriors for a first time for this year’s Hero Caribbean Premier League. Rutherford, was rewarded for being equally effective with both bat and ball in his maiden stint with the Guyana Jaguars during the last regional four-day and Super50 tournaments, where he filled one of the all-rounder’s position with absolute permanency. The 19-year-old who was bought for US$ 4,000 when the players’ draft was held on Thursday in London, is anxiously awaiting the sixth edition of the League as yet another

chance for him to continue his swift rise to recognition. In an exclusive interview yesterday, Rutherford indicated that while he is extremely excited to be a part of this year’s tournament, he is equally excited to make it count. “Definitely I am very excited to be on board,” he said. The all-rounder further pointed out that he is even more excited to rub shoulders with the foreign players and gain from their experiences. Commenting on the squad, he said, “I think we have a well-balanced squad and I am confident we will cross that final hurdle this time.” Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd and Akshaya Persaud are the local fresh faces in the squad. Veerasammy Permaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Devendra Bishoo, Gajanand Singh and

Keemo Paul, are the other Guyanese. Guyana Amazon Warriors, one of the most consistent sides in the tournament, confirmed all-rounder Shoaib Malik, batsman Cameron Delport, leg-spinner Imran Tahir and ICC Americas player Saurabh Netravalkar as their international newcomers. The Warriors have retained their best batsman and bowler from last season-Chadwick Walton and Sohail Tanvir. Opener Walton had 458 runs, the most in the competition, while Tanvir had the most wickets (17) in the tournament. All-rounder Rayad Emrit, Luke Ronchi, Jason Mohammed, Singh, Permaul, Paul and Roshon Primus were retained from last season. The 2018 tournament will run from August 8 to September 16.

Windies women trash Canterbury Magicians

THE Windies Women romped to a 7-wicket victory over the Canterbury Magicians at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval, as part of their preparations for Round 2 of the ICC Women’s Championships versus New Zealand White Ferns, starting on today. Windies women won the toss and elected to bowl first. Canterbury lost Frances Mackay for 7 and the dangerous Amy Satterthwaite for 1. Then Evelyn Jones and Kate Ebrahim consolidated for the Magicians, scoring 98 and 84 respectively, as the Magicians posted 216/5 from their 50 overs. Leg-spinner Afy Fletcher had the best bowling figures for the Windies women, taking 3/44 from her allotted 10 overs. In their reply, the Windies Women got off to the perfect start thanks to openers Hayley Matthews and Kycia Knight, who put on 75 for the first wicket. Matthews and Kycia blasted the Magicians bowling with Matthews being the ag-

gressor, smashing 13 fours on her way to 61. Captain Stafanie Taylor had a short stint at the wicket, before Kycia was joined by Chedean Nation. Kycia and Nation both reached half-centuries in a partnership worth 109 runs before Nation fell for a well-played 55. Kycia and twin Kyshonna then took the Windies Women to the target in 34 overs, finishing on 70 and 14 not out, respectively. Speaking after the game, Captain Stafanie Taylor said “I thought we bowled and fielded well, especially the opening spell from Shamilia Connell and Tremayne Smartt. Then Kycia and Hayley set the tone and pace in the powerplay, which gave us the start we needed, and it was backed up by Chedean Nation and Kyshonna. Our preparation for the championships are coming along as expected and we are ready for the challenge that I know that team New Zealand is coming with.”

GKC to host Frank Woon-A-Tai Law calls for ‘smarter’ Windies championships this weekend

KARATEKAS young and old will on Sunday vie for top honours when the Guyana Karate College (GKC) hosts the Frank Woon-ATai championships at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH). The tournament which has been dubbed the ‘Woon-A-Tai

Cup 2018’ will feature four different categories; the Kate, Kumite, Bunkai and Enbu. Competitors will compete in the U-9s all the way up to the Over-40. The event is being held in honour of the 50th anniversary of ‘Teaching traditional karate in Guyana’.

In an interview with Chronicle Sport, Sensei Jeffrey Wong noted that the competition will be of the highest quality and he anticipates a packed venue as the karatekas are rearing to showcase their skills. Action gets underway at 9:00hrs on Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall will be abuzz with action on Sunday with young karatekas competing in the Kate, Kumite, Bunkai and Enbu categories. (Samuel Maughn photo)

THE Windies coach, Stuart Law, has said his side will have to be smarter in their approach in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018, which will produce two sides that will complete the 10team line-up for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 to be played in England and Wales from 30 May to 14 July. “It is not going to be making 300 plus and then bowling teams out. It is going to be working out how to get to 180 to 220 and then deciding how to get the 10 wickets. To be honest, the wickets (in the warm-up matches) weren’t as conducive as we want to play and so we just have to come up with different ways to go about it. “We do target 300plus as we found in New Zealand, that’s probably a benchmark score these days in One-Day Internationals. Here, we have to lower that target just to make sure we are safe to play better cricket or make better decisions out in the middle and get the job done,” said Law, in Harare on Friday. The Windies, along with Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe, had missed out on an automatic qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 by finishing outside the top eight

on the MRF Tyres ICC ODI Team Rankings, at the 30 September 2017 cut-off date. The four sides have been joined by Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Nepal, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and the United Arab Emirates. The ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier begins on Sunday, March 4, and the Windies will play their opening match against the United Arab Emirates, the side which nearly beat them in the second warm-up match on Thursday. “The strength of a lot of Associate teams is based around spin and the quicks they have seem to be pretty reasonable as well. We can’t just go out and blast and dominate against these attacks. We have to be a little smarter to go about it. “Our bowlers have been consistently taking wickets upfront and we have a good mix of offspin, left-arm spin and leg-spin. I think it is a well-balanced attack that we take into each game. “Our quicks are a bit more capable of getting the ball up at high speed, which the Associates don’t probably get to see a lot of, and this is something that we can use to our advantage. As the event will progress, the wickets will spin more and we have

quality spinners as well.” Law, who played one Test and 54 ODIs for Australia from 1994 to 1999, valued the presence of stalwarts like Chris Gayle, Marlon Samuels and Nikita Miller in the side, saying it was up to the youngsters to observe and learn from these players. “You can’t buy experience on a shelf. You need these guys in these tough conditions to stand up as well and guide the youngsters through the difficult periods. Then it is just up to the younger or less-experienced players to listen, heed the advice and carry forward into their game.” Afghanistan coach Phil Simmons, who played in 26 Tests and 143 ODIs for the Windies from 1987 to 1999, shrugged off the ‘favourites’ tag, when he said: “I am not putting the ‘favourites’ tag on me. We have just come here to play cricket, we need to play proper cricket and win this tournament. “I am one of those who want to win all the time, and I think these guys are the same. So, the more we will win, the easier it will get for us in the Super Six stage. You win the Super Six stage you are in the World Cup as well as in the final. That’s how we look at it.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Excited about his selection, says Hemraj By Rajiv Bisnauth

TALENTED batsman Chandrapaul Hemraj is among the 11 Guyanese who will be a part of the biggest party in sport, the Hero Caribbean Premier League for the sixth edition, which bowls off on August 8. The 24-year-old joined Steven Jacobs and Ronsford Beaton, as the Guyanese, who will ply their trade outside of the Warriors’ camp. The left-hander from Strathavon, Cane Grove, was snapped up by the St. Lucia Stars for US$ 5,000, when the players’ draft was held on Thursday in London. “I knew I would get pick[ed]…I’m really excited to join the St. Lucia Stars for this year CPL,” the former West Indies Under-19 player said yesterday. Hemraj, who had taken a self-imposed exile from the game after the 2014-15 first-class season, returned with a bang. After finishing as the fourth highest run-scorer

(566 runs) in the last Jaguars Franchise League, a three-day competition that replaced the tradition Inter-county tournament, Hemraj was awarded a recall to the national setup and he grabbed the oppor-

nese and the fifth highest in the competition. But, it was his consistency in the just-concluded Super50, where he chalked up 227 runs that earned him a West Indies ‘A’ team selection.

with the likes of global T20 stars Kieron Pollard, Lendl Simmons, Darren Sammy and Mitch McCleneghan in the St. Lucia Stars line-up, an opportunity he hopes to learn as much as possible.

Chandrapaul Hemraj said he is excited to join the St. Lucia Stars for this year CPL.

tunity with both hands. Hemraj piled up 623 runs from 10 first-class games. He made five fifties with a highest of 90, while his tally of runs was the most by a Guya-

However, while his focus is on the three-match, one-day series against the England Lions, Hemraj is eagerly looking forward to the CPL as well. He would rub shoulders

“We have some guys there with a whole lot of experience and I will try to learn as much as I can from them, whenever I get the opportunity I will try to make an impact,”

GTT supports Rickie Williams CARIFTA Games bid THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) has sponsored local distance athlete, Rickie Williams, as he heads to Trinidad and Tobago this weekend. Williams is hoping to make the qualifying standard time in the 5 000 metres in his effort to represent Guyana at the March 30 to April 2 games, set for the Bahama at the Thomas A. Robinson National. It is the view by Williams, that running in Trinidad and Tobago at their CARIFTA Games trials, will give him that competitive edge to make the time needed.

BCB to host Secondary School K.O. Cricket Tournament

- Sueria Manufacturing on board PROMISING young cricketers at the Under-19 level attending Secondary Schools and Technical Institutes across Berbice would be able to showcase their cricketing skills as the Berbice Cricket Board would be organising an Inter-Secondary School Under-19 Tournament. The Berbice Cricket Board with the support of Sueria Manufacturing CEO Frank Sanichara would be hosting the tournament after a long absence of school cricket organise by the Berbice Cricket Board. Newly elected President Hilbert Foster was overjoyed at securing the sponsorship from the Berbice born Sanichara and hailed the tournament as a red letter day for Berbice Cricket. The main objectives of the Berbice Cricket Board, he stated in 2018 would be to make sure that all youths are given all the opportunities to fulfill their potentials, to play cricket at all levels and to rekindle the love of the game among students. The tournament would be officially launched in Mid March and is expected to bowl off in April. Schools are encouraged to get their teams ready for the tournament and the cutoff Date of Birth is on the 1st September, 1999. Players must be attending the school that they represent and must have a 85% attendance rate. The following Region Six Schools would be involved in the Tournament - Line Path, Skeldon High, Tagore Memorial, Central Corentyne, Black Bush Polder, Manchester High, Winifred Gaskin Secondary, Corentyne Comprehensive, Port

Mourant Secondary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Lower Corentyne Secondary, Canje Secondary, Berbice High School, Vryman’s Erven Secondary, New Amsterdam Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute, Tutorial Academy, New Amsterdam Technical Institute and Upper Corentyne Technical Institute. The Region Five Schools would be Rosignol Secondary, No. 8 Secondary, Fort Wellington Secondary, Woodley Park Secondary, Bush Lot Secondary, Belladrum Secondary, Mahaicony Secondary, Bygeval Secondary and Mahaicony Technical Institute. Matches would be played 30-Overs per side and the Cricket Board would delegate Coaches and Berbice Selectors to matches with the main aim of spotting talents for coaching sessions. All of th3 schools are encouraged to host internal practice sessions with the objective to select the best available fourteen cricketers to play in the tournament. Each of the teams would also be required to walk along with eight a Manager or Coach. The Berbice Cricket Board in 2018 also intends to host a Cricket Tournament for Primary Schools. This Tournament would be played using either softball or Tapeball. Schools are encouraged to contact or call President Hilbert Foster on Telephone number 337 4562, Vice President Albert Smith on Telephone number 610 3371 or Secretary Rabindranauth (Robby) Saywack on 232 0255, 660 0049 for more information.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday March 03, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Anisa Mohammed-111 ODI matches (2) Deandra Dottin-94 T20 Int’l matches Today’s Quiz: (1) Who has scored most runs for the WI women in ODIs to date? (2) Who has scored most runs for WI women in T20 Internationals to date? GTT CEO, Justin Nedd makes the presentation to Rickie Williams

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 3, 2018

Kares Engineering Fitness Challenge set for March 11

THE fourth edition of the Guyana Fitness Challenge, sponsored by Kares Engineering will feature five gruelling stages when the action gets going on March 11, at the National park. The event, launched on Thursday evening at the Giftland Mall’s strip was attended by several athletes and sponsors, with the former of putting on a demonstration following the launch. Public Relations Officer, Jordana Ramsay, contended that, “we have our top athletes returning, the big names like Dillon, Semonica, Anis and Delice will all be returning to our crossfit playground. We also have a team from Suriname coming to challenge our athletes, so we are encouraging all Guyanese to come out to support our local champions.” “Another notable mention, this is the first year that we have had so many women willingly sign up for the

fitness challenge. It just goes to show that our efforts have been paying off. Women are joining the world of crossfit and fitness in general and are feeling empowered. We love that,” she said. “We excited to introduce our Mascot, Harpo the eagle is a brand a new feature and mascot of the Guyana Fitness Games designed by Bernard Ramsay as the link between athletes and spectators to keep things light and funny throughout the various events all day long,” the PRO stated. Also present was Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, who showed his support for the event by signing up for the annual celebrity challenge. “It is games like this which help to fight those NCD’s [Non –communicable diseases] and we are always interested in promoting fitness,” Jones added. Included among the oth-

Georgetown Grand Prix on today KARTING fans are eagerly awaiting the first of this year’s Georgetown Grand prix, set for today at the GMR&SC Thomas Lands facility. The event will be run under the auspices of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club. According to information, a team of Trinidadian drivers are expected to be on show among them are Kristian Boodosingh and Zachary Boodhram. Meanwhile, several class changes have been made for the 2018 season, including the merger of last year’s Easy Cup Light and Heavy into one category, dubbed the Easy Cup Super. However, the four-stroke Honda powered engines with the Easy Cup ‘Rookie’ remains the same. The 125CC class will also benefit from the addition of a Masters Category for drivers

over 30 years or over 205 lbs, but the Juniors (12-15 years) and Seniors (15+) have not been changed. The 60cc class has been split into the IAME Micro Swift for ages 6-10 which features a restricted 60cc engine, while the IAME Mini Swift will feature an unrestricted version of the same engine but for an 8-12 grouping. The Mini allows for a maximum weight of 245lbs as against the Micro which features a max weight of 225lbs. The Pro Cup Shifter class remains the same. Admission to the event is free, but for a VIP experience the cost is $6,000 per person. Action will get underway at 18:00h (6pm). Corporate support has been garnered from Stag Beer, Exxon Mobil, GMR&SC, Rayne Inn and Sun Burst Juices.

er sponsors are Lucozade, Icool Water, Mix 90.1FM, Scotiabank, Degree, Lipton, Courts, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Baganara Island Resort, Windjammer Restaurant, Giftland Foodmaxx, Trophy Stall and Two Pears Health Mart. Tickets are available at Fitness Express, Sheriff Street; Genesis Fitness Gym on Durban Street and Fitness Paradise.

One of the stages for this year’s Kares Engineering Fitness Challenge

SEE INSIDE

Kares Engineering Fitness Challenge set for March 11

See Page 31

Sponsors in a photo shoot following the launch of the Fourth Kares Engineering Fitness Challenge

Georgetown Grand Prix on today See Page 31

Part of the action in the last Grand Prix

GKC to host Frank Woon-A-Tai championships this weekend Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

See Page 29

SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018