Issuu

New ticketing system for littering set Page to kick off 14

––with review of by-laws almost completed

No. 105083

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

President gives AMCAR thumbs up –– says agro-processing model key to economic development across Guyana

With you all the way!

Page 2

PM condemns racist statements Page 3

–– linked to GECOM appointment

Fake kidnapping saga ...

‘Trini’ mastermind remanded Page 10

President of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, Ms Bibi Hassan (third left) and some staff members of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited on Tuesday released balloons into the air to signal their willingness to stand in solidarity with survivors and those persons who are battling Breast Cancer (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

–– accomplices on the run, blacklisted at airports here, in Trinidad

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

President gives AMCAR thumbs up –– says agro-processing model key to economic development across Guyana

WITH agriculture still one of the most important economic activities across the 10 administrative regions of Guyana, President David Granger is urging farming communities and local and international investors to adopt a model that not only promotes agro-processing, but also builds solid partnerships among companies, communities and citizens. Flaying criticisms of his push to encourage agro-processing at the small and medium-scale level as a means of economic empowerment, the Head of State said that the success of that model has been tried, tested and proven in Barima-Waini (Region One) with the agro-processing venture run by the Amazon Caribbean Guyana Limited (AMCAR) over the past 30 years. Speaking at AMCAR’s 30TH anniversary event recently at Drum Hill Landing on the Barima River, President Granger said that it is this form of economic activity, which has the potential to transform and empower hinterland communities, enrich citizens and ensure food security. “We have to move the economy of the Barima-Waini for [sic] the level of the corial, so farmers do not have to depend on a subsistence existence, but they can penetrate a regular and reliable market to take their produce at reasonable prices. Regularity, reliability and reasonableness will transform the farming communities of their region,” he said. President Granger said that the model, which he

President Granger inspects one of the finished bottled products during the tour. referred to as the ‘AMCAR model,’ is a most appropriate vehicle for the country to move its production up the value chain as it emphasises agro-processing, particularly of non-traditional products and can be used to create value for common agricultural produce. AMCAR, a Frenchowned company, has established a name in the international market for itself for its bottled organic hearts of palm (acai palmito). PREVIOUSLY OVERLOOKED “This company has begotten a ‘model,’ which has transformed a previously overlooked commodity into a competitive, industrial product, and a remote area into an agro-processing

centre. This ‘model’ emphasises the importance of hygiene, of marketing, of quality assurance, of phytosanitary and sanitary standards and of due regularity…this industry’s strict adherence to these standards and the certification of its products have allowed local products access to European supermarkets and restaurants,” he said. Noting that Government remains focused on developing hinterland agriculture, the President noted that AMCAR’s success demonstrates that this is integral to economic diversification and advancement. “Hinterland agriculture can foster a more resilient and a more robust agro-industrial sector. It can do so by encouraging food production; by promoting more resilient and higher-yielding crop varieties;

by diversifying production into non-traditional crops; and by stimulating agro-processing to reduce crop losses and increase farm incomes,” President Granger said. Moreover, he said that hinterland agriculture will enhance the standard of living of hinterland residents and their communities through enterprise and employment, while at the same time reducing outward migration of young, working-age persons. The Head of State took the opportunity to speak about the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibitions (RACE), which have the potential to promote production at the ‘cottage’ and community levels and Turn to page 9 ►

PM condemns racist statements

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

–– linked to GECOM appointment

By Svetlana Marshall PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo said it is unfortunate that the issues of race and age have been included in the public discussion on President David Granger’s appointment of Justice James Patterson as chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Justice Patterson is 84 years old. “The issue of race came in and the issue of age which is unfortunate and which is something that is hurting our politics, it is hurting Guyana that we can do this intervention to look at race and age,” Prime Minister Nagamootoo said during a recent televised interview on the National Communications Network (NCN). Alluding to one of the nominees submitted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, the prime minister pointed out that Dr James Rose, an Afro-Guyanese, was a People’s Progressive Party (PPP) candidate for the 1992 General Elections. “James Rose is almost 80 years old, he is an Afro-Guyanese. If President Granger had selected Dr James Rose, the most you would have heard people say is that he is an Afro-Guyanese and he is a person of immense knowledge, immense qualification, immense experience but he is almost 80.”

He said, unfortunately, some have resorted to “gutter politics” now that Justice Patterson has been sworn in as chairman of GECOM. “When Justice James Patterson was named, appointed and sworn in, imme-

statement came at a time when the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) and the Indian Action Committee are engaged in a battle of words over the appointment of Justice Patterson.

on December 21, 2016, he had the racist political gall and incredible audacity to name Rhyaan Shah, Christopher Ram, Ramesh Dookhoo, Major-General (retired) Norman Mc Lean, Lawrence Lachmansingh and Professor

Retired Justice James Patterson receives his instrument of appointment from President David Granger at his swearing-in as chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) (Adrian Narine photo) diately you see on Facebook, the gutter propaganda that Indians have now been displaced. Indo-Guyanese have now been given a Diwali present and darkness has stepped in,” the prime minister explained. The prime minister’s

French ambassador calls on Attorney-General THE Non-Resident Ambassador of the French Republic to Guyana, H.E. Antoine Joly, on Monday paid a courtesy call on Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams S.C., M.P. at the Attorney General’s Chambers. Mr. Joly’s visit comes ahead of an up-coming seminar on trans-boundary drugs trafficking and organised crime, to be held in Cayenne, French Guiana. At the meeting, Mr. Joly briefed the attorney general on the importance of the meeting and the need for Guyana to attend. Representatives from France, French Guiana, Brazil and Suriname are expected to participate. Also sitting-in on the meeting was Ms. Ariel Haynes, Parliamentary Counsel.

In a recent statement, ACDA said: “Former President Jagdeo insulted democracy, the spirit of the constitution, the Guyanese nation and the high offices of the presidency, when in his first and only legitimate constitutional list submitted

Dr. James Rose.” According to ACDA, nominees were not fit and proper as mandated by the Constitution of Guyana. The association stated that Africans in Guyana, the international community and well-intentioned Guyanese

need to support the President in his lawful interpretation of the constitution and for his decision to promptly abide by the Rule of Law in Guyana. “Today, the PSC, GCCI, GMSA, bankers, Indian supremacists, accountants, lawyers and others who have illegitimately benefited under the PPP are showing their true colours as they continue to sabotage our ‘democracy’ with the hope of again plundering Guyana with its new found oil wealth,” ACDA stated. But not long after that the Indian Action Committee rejected the statements made by ACDA. “The Indian Action Committee (IAC) rejects any attempt to instigate a racially charged atmosphere regarding the current stalemate over the selection of the chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM),” the committee stated. The IAC is urging groups and persons to refrain from engaging in race hate and polarising campaigns to support their positions, stating that it will not help the cause of national unity nor allow an environment for meaningful dialogue. “Our ethnic relations situation is too fragile for any extreme, irresponsible and reckless behaviour and statements. We call on civil

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo society, political leaders, the media and the international community to reject and rebuff any effort at instigation and making inflammatory statements,” the IAC said. It said it for this reason that it is important that the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) be reactivated. “We are encouraged by the diplomatic community’s call for dialogue and the urgent resolution of the GECOM chairman disagreement by the Court of Guyana. The IAC urges responsible statements and conduct and absolute respect for the constitution and due process in our land,” the Indian organisation stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, Novemberr 1, 2017

New York truck attacker kills eight At least eight people have been killed and 11 seriously hurt in New York after the driver of a truck mowed down people on a cycle path in Lower Manhattan. A 29-year-old man who emerged from the white pickup truck was shot by a police officer and arrested. US media named him as

Sayfullo Saipov, an immigrant who came to the US in 2010 and had apparently settled in Florida. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said it was “cowardly act of terror aimed at innocent civilians”. He added: “We know that this action was intended to break our spirit. But we

also know that New Yorkers are strong, New Yorkers are resilient and our spirit will never be moved by an act of violence and an act meant to intimidate us.” President Donald Trump tweeted: “My thoughts, condolences and prayers to the victims and families of the New York City terrorist at-

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said it was “cowardly act of terror aimed at innocent civilians” (Photo taken from the BBC)

tack. God and your country are with you!” New York Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner James O’Neill said the injured had “serious but non-life threatening injuries”.

He described what had occurred, based on the latest information he had received: * Shortly after 15:00 local time (19:00 GMT), a vehicle rented from retailer Home Depot struck cyclists and pedestrians while being driven along the West St-Houston St path for many blocks * The vehicle then hit a school bus, injuring two adults and two children on board, and came to a halt * The driver emerged holding what appeared to be two handguns and made a statement “consistent with a terror attack” * He was shot in the abdomen by a police officer stationed near the scene * A paintball gun and a pellet gun were recovered from the scene “The dead and injured were just going about their days, heading home from work or from school or enjoying the afternoon sun on their bicycles,” the commissioner said. “This is a tragedy of the greatest magnitude for many people, for many families here in New York and beyond today.” Mangled bicycles littered the scene of the attack, which occurred as much of the city was celebrating Halloween. One witness, identified as

Eugene, told ABC Channel 7 that he saw the white pickup truck driving fast down the cycle path alongside the West Side Highway, near Stuyvesant High School, at full speed and hitting a number of people. He also reported hearing about nine or 10 shots. Another witness, who gave his name as Frank, told local TV network NY1 that he had seen a man running around an intersection and heard five to six gunshots. “I saw he had something in his hand, but I couldn’t tell what it was. But they said that it was a gun... “When the cops shot him, everybody started running away and it got a little bit crazy right there. So when I tried to look again, the guy was already down.” President Donald Trump had been briefed on the incident, the White House said. In separate tweets, he said: * “In NYC, looks like another attack by a very sick and deranged person. Law enforcement is following this closely. NOT IN THE U.S.A.!” * “We must not allow ISIS [Islamic State] to return, or enter, our country after defeating them in the Middle East and elsewhere. Enough!” (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

‘Strut II: Live the Runway’ on tonight

--at the Marriott THE executives of Traits Model Management are all pumped up and excited to see the execution of ‘Strut II: Live the Runway’ fashion show tonight at the Mariott Hotel, and they promise it’s going to be an international standard show with some of the best in top designers and top models. The designers themselves are also all hyped up and can’t wait to see their months of work finally being displayed. A few were present at a press briefing held at the Marriott yesterday morning, as TMM Co-founder, Junior Kennedy shared that all systems are in place for one of the best nights of fashion that Guyana will ever see. Kennedy noted that the

show will be one that will sure to inspire other young designers, models and fashion enthusiasts. He noted that the last show held in 2015 was particularly inspirational to one designer, who was a patron the last time but will now be one of the designers on show this time around. “We make structured decisions how we do our show; it’s a seamless situation from backstage to front. You don’t want to not be inspired, so you have to be there. Whether you’re a model or designer, this is the place to be to see how things need to be carried out from an international perspective and what is expected for fashion,” an enthusiastic Kennedy said. A total of eight designers,

At yesterday’s press conference are, from left: Representative for designer Peta Odini from St Vincent and the Grenadines; TMM Co-founder, Junior Kennedy; and local designer, Olympia Sonaram-Small

including three from overseas, are set to debut their newest collection. The show will see the return of designers Randy Madray and Mwanza Glenn, who were a part of the show’s first edition in 2015.

There will also be pieces from local designers Sidney François Designs, Olympia Small, and Quinton Pearson. The overseas participants are Roell Gomes Designs out of

Canada, Andrew Harris out of New York, and Peta Odini from St Vincent and the Grenadines. Thus far, the VIP tickets for the show have already been sold out, while a few $4000 tickets still remain at outlets, including

Palm Court, Pieces and Things, Street Styles, and The Kurl Box. The show is set to start promptly at 19:00hrs, with Kennedy asking patrons to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure they secure the best seats in the house. Nonetheless, no matter where you sit, Kennedy says patrons will still be able to get a good view of the stage. “Just seeing the creativity come to life is probably the most inspiring thing. Fashion is uplifted on a different level; I don’t think people should be concerned about where they are seated and just attend the event,” Kennedy said. The night will also see performances by Guyanese singer, Remar, who recently released his newest single, “Baddie”. Remar will be collaborating to perform alongside one of the designers for an entertaining mix.

AFC-Canada talking breakaway CHAIRMAN of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan- one of the parties in the governing coalition- on Tuesday rubbished a decision by his party’s Canada Chapter to pull out until the AFC denounces President David Granger’s recent appointment of Retired Justice James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “Unless and until all these resolutions are complied with in full, AFC-Canada hereby gives notice that it has withdrawn its membership from association with and support of the Alliance For Change party,” Secretary of AFC-Canada, Laurence Williams said in a letter to Ramjattan, AFC Leader Raphael Trotman and the party’s National Executive Com-

mittee (NEC) after a meeting held last Friday. While AFC-Canada said it is no longer associated with The Alliance For Change party or any other political party, for the time being, it said it would “continue to support the Guyanese people’s quest and struggle for national unity, democracy, transparency, accountability and peace and progress.” Ramjattan however told Demerara Waves Online News: “We are not going to retract on that GECOM decision at all,” adding that the AFC was a liberal democratic party and members could do as they are best advised. Williams said in a letter to Ramjattan, AFC Leader, Raphael Trotman and the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) that the Canadian chapter recently met

and expressed grave concerns about James Patterson’s appointment. Williams said his party’s group in Canada has agreed that if the party does not publicly call for the GECOM Chairman’s appointment to be rescinded and for one of the 18 persons nominated by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to be appointed, the group will withdraw from the party. However, Ramjattan vowed that the AFC’s leadership would not give into the Canadian chapter’s demand for the AFC to publicly denounce the GECOM Chairman’s appointment. “Absolutely not. We aren’t going to do that because we have made our decision and our decision is grounded on a whole lot of political history and facts in relationship to why we did what we did and you would appreciate

that Jagdeo is not an easy political animal and we appreciate that it is a presidential choice,” he said. Other resolutions, Williams referred to, are the need to rewrite the political agreement between the AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to ensure legal enforceability with specific time limits for its implementation and the immediate commencement of constitutional reform and the enactment of a reformed constitution before the next general election. A Constitutional Reform Bill has been tabled in the House to pave the way for countrywide consultations.

The AFC Chairman, however, cast some doubt over who attended the AFC-Canada meeting and said recently he learnt that former members of the opposition People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) North American front-group, Association of Concerned Guyanese (ACG), had expressed an interest in joining AFC- Canada. Williams said the meeting was held in North York, Toronto “If that is their position, well then we’ll just do have our work again. Fall-outs like this is [sic] always part of the political landscape because these are

fellows who had really worked hard for the party,” Ramjattan added. He said he was not worried that the AFC would now lose significant financial resources with the withdrawal of AFC-Canada because he was “absolutely certain” that major financiers would remain with the party.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, Novemberr 1, 2017

Reckless driving, excessive speed, boom boxes

THERE are certain social services that define the character of a nation; and this begins with its transportation system that conveys the first line of impression to a visitor, since on arrival at port, the latter has to access conveyance to place of residence. The others, security and telecommunications will, we contend, also offer a window into the daily behavioural dynamics, since it is interactive and reflects the human content. But transportation is a constant necessity, since it is minutely needed by the public, particularly those without the means of personal conveyance. Through the years, beginning from its advent in the very late 1980s, the minibus, the main conduit of public transportation in this nation, has been the subject of national, verbal criticism. So much so, that there is what is now referred to as the minibus culture. And not without good reason. Reckless driving and excessive speed that have resulted in multiple deaths and maiming injuries; grossly discourteous behaviour to commuters; sexual assault; assault and battery; loud and obscene music; and other outrages that define the general minibus, daily operational schedule. Anyone who has travelled via this system would have observed/ been offended by any of these incidents. Of course, not all minibus operators are of ill –behaviour. There is a reasonable number and their operators that offer a courteous and pleasant public service. But, they are few. Since minibus conductors are the journey directors, they are responsible for accepting passengers on their respective

vehicles. Therefore, their role as a contributory factor to the sordid minibus culture should be examined. Their manner of this transportation function is highly questionable. They should be guiding commuters, especially females into their buses; but not touching them inappropriately, using the cover of the rush hour for such sexual gratification. So many females have been victims of these predators cum bus conductors. The well-known ploy of seating females next to the driver is another avenue for this sexual attack. How often has it not been observed that drivers on the pretext of changing gears, deliberately brush their hands against the thighs of females seated next to them? Such acts are undeniably blatant, and we recommend strongly to the traffic department that guidelines be issued regulating the conduct of public transportation, especially minibus conductors. What about the treatment meted out to senior citizens, the disabled/differently abled, and young children by the operators of these buses? Senior citizens are often refused entry on the cruel pretexts of being “smelly” or “too slow’’; those who are disabled/differently abled are also similarly branded; and children, refused on the grounds that they do not offer the required fare, or none at all. No doubt, the sight of our schoolchildren being made to stand for very lengthy periods on the roadways, waiting on the humanitarian and kind- heartedness of a minibus operator to rescue them, especially in the afternoon. It is a daily occurrence on our roads.

The reasons for non-transportation of the two categories may be true, but not sufficiently good reasons not to offer them transportation to their destinations. We urge that some limited form of public transportation be made available for assisting senior citizens, the ably challenged, and children to their destinations. They are very much human after all. Finally, two equally vexed issues that although intermittently attracting attention from the law still persist, because of their deep entrenchment in the daily operational manual of the minibus – touting and playing of loud music. Loud music is a declared public nuisance – an environmental threat. Add the lewd lyrical content, and we have a blatant disrespect for the travelling public. How often, have many of the latter been verbally abused, even threatened because of their objections to lewd and loud music played by minds that do certainly reflect depravities? Why should our young children be exposed to such profanities? Notwithstanding the competitive nature of public transportation, why should passengers be the centre of tugs-ofwar to fill a minibus? These are serious incidents that have with the passage of time, come to characterise the minibus service offered to the nation. They are perpetrated on commuters with impunity, every day. Such ought not to await the coming of oil and gas, before they are remedied. The law must act now, in a decisive and consistent manner. Our system of public transportation needs to be cleaned up; but not through periodic campaigns.

Rising above political partisanship

Dear Editor,

A MOST important constitutional body, a Local Government Commission has been sworn in. For Guyana, this a watershed moment in the nation’s history that a body is charged with administrative responsibility for the country’s second tier of government. It commences a new epoch in local government administration, and comes at a time when central government has been advocating that local authorities must accept the responsibility for their local affairs. In fact, President Granger has made this very clear, especially after the March 2016 local government polls. And in the charge to the commissioners, after their recent swearing-in, he reiterated that, “It will prevent the unlawful, executive and political intrusion

into the work of local government organs and it will promote greater efficiency in the delivery of public services to citizens and their communities.” Indeed, this will be breaking new ground, as it means that the local authorities will have to wean themselves, without delay, from the old order of traditional political influence that has resulted in a system being unable to provide the type of effective and satisfactory services that are in dire need in almost all of the nation’s communities. For the first time, local authorities and their communities will have a fair chance in meeting and discussing plans that are necessary for the advancement of their citizens and communities, without political interference. This in effect, should mark the end of political patronage, since it allows for an independent mind-

set about the direction and affairs of communities. The prescribed functions of the Local Government Commission are indeed profound and illustrate the enormity of the challenges that awaits its members, in the execution of their duties. It reads like a mini-government, as it really is, since it has responsibility for matters ranging from the performance and implementation of policies, the environment, recommendation on policies, procedures and practices of all local government organs, to the critical matter of taxation, employment of staff, transfers, discipline, and dismissal of staff, and remuneration among other key responsibilities. This calls for a commission whose members will have to rise above political partisanship and

petty-minded politics. For this is about an entirely new dispensation where party loyalty will have to be subordinated to the greater good of ensuring the mandate of the commission’s functions; of competency, replacing lethargy because of political loyalty; and of consensus taking the place of rigid positions for effective decision-making; and of loyalty being only to the goals of the commission and its task of ensuring the local authorities deliver to their citizens and communities. As an employer, the commission is expected to tap talented persons based on employment criteria, and not because of political party affiliation and ethnicity. This has also been an issue throughout our system of local government, and with the installation of the commission this is expected to cease. Since taxation is expected

to be the pivot, apart from other legitimate ways of raising much-needed finances at the local level, for providing the fuel for the socio-economic growth and development of communities, the commission will have to ensure that local authorities effect proper methods for ensuring that taxes be paid by all who are eligible. We emphasise this fact, since non-payment of taxes is a perennial problem in most local authorities, continuing to hinder much-needed works within communities. Finally, the Local Government Commission must not become a battleground for the trial/ show of strength. For already, we have observed the disturbing act of the three commissioners from the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic absent from the commission’s inaugural meeting, for

reasons as stated, that made no sense, if one were to interpret what one of the commissioners, Norman Whittaker, said “that the commission(was) holding for two years so a week would not have made that big a difference.” This can only send a negative signal to the public as to the future conduct of this commission. If it is perceived, that such irresponsibility is due to the PPP/C stated strategy of non-cooperation, then it must be rebuffed by the other commission members, who must insist on the body functioning as expected. Such an action by those three members, if continued, can only redound to the detriment of their party’s constituents and their communities. The Local Government Commission must rise to the level of its mandate. Earl Hamilton

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

PPP cooperation or not, Guyana will move positively forward through this government

Dear Editor

WE have heard the leader of the opposition calling on Guyanese, especially. PPP members and supporters, not to cooperate with the government towards having a better future. We must take lots of things into consideration as to what the man is calling for. We must also understand that since May 2015, when this government took office, the PPP has never cooperated with the government, be it at the highest level or the lowest level. At Parliament to date, they cannot name one member from the opposition side to be nominated as deputy speaker of the National Assembly. They are telling all their RDC and NDC chairmen and councillors not to cooperate with the various regional administrations.

They have been lambasting everything this government has been doing to better the infrastructural work in our land. They now see the need to support teachers, sugar workers, rice farmers, fisherfolk, and the many other working class groups of this country. They now create division amongst some religious groups and are celebrating a national holiday or a day that was declared a national holiday on a different day. I was told that the leader and a few members of the PPP attended a church service in Berbice over the weekend. Yet those are the ones who are separating the nation, allowing the racial side to kick in and be in the minds of some people, but yet for all they now decided to show their godly side. I don’t think God will accept

someone that faked his marriage, who is creating division among the people, who said if Jesus was in Guyana he would have voted PPP, and who wants to punish the people, etc. Imagine at the PPP press conference after the chairman of GECOM was announced, those PPP members who attended and sat at the head table seemed to be out of voice, but rather we all know that they were harnessed by the leader of the opposition. The man alone must talk because it seems as if he alone has sense in the PPP. It was shameful. But that’s how dictators behave: they must say everything, go everywhere, etc and don’t do anything. Imagine, this man is telling Guyanese not to cooperate with the government. He is asking workers to stop co-

operating and do what they want. But he is not telling the workers when they do what he wants, who will feed them and their children? For sure, the leader of the opposition won’t take out money from his pocket and give it to every family deciding not to cooperate. The man wants us to believe he cares for Guyana, but yet for all he decided to pull his members out of the Border Commission. Which man will have his country at heart and do not want to defend his land and people? The man is only showing his real side, all he cares about, and for, is power. It is very blatant that the leader of the opposition is using the people who support his party to destroy Guyana. But that won’t happen. Dr. Doom should look at the crowd he attract-

ed at his village meeting in Chesney on the Corentyne over the weekend, a handful of voters with lots of small children. That alone shows that Berbicians won’t listen to the race-baiting from this man. I was told yesterday by someone about an incident, whereby a young man who works with CORE Region Five was chased out of Bath Settlement Freedom House because he was working with the project. It’s shameful that under the PPP they could not have come up with a project that would enhance the environment. So they are chasing those who want to see a better Guyana. Since this government took office, the PPP wasn’t cooperating and no one expects them to at this time. In Region Five, almost the entire work programme for

2017 is being completed without the input of the PPP’s RDC chairman and councillors. Works are being done across the region, within every NDC. In Region Five, the positive works will continue even if the PPP decided to protest day after day and months after months. The people are seeing improvement within the region and that is what the PPP is afraid of - DEVELOPMENT under the APNU+AFC government. I call on all Guyanese to reject the opposition leader’s call and let’s work together for a better Guyana. Regards Abel Seetaram APNU+AFC Regional Councillor Region Five.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, Novemberr 1, 2017

‘Duck curry’ competition sizzles as usual --lights up 63 Beach with heady aroma of exotic spices

SCORES of Berbicians joined their fellow Guyanese and overseas visitors at the Number 63 Beach on Sunday for the much anticipated Digicel Guyana curried duck competition, which saw a large turnout and lots to eat and drink. At the end of the cooking, in which 18 participants had gathered to showcase their culinary skills, NTN’s Channel 18/69 Bramhma Prasad was declared the winner. Prasad, who’d won thrice before and placed second once, walked away with $240,000 in cash, a trophy, three months’ data plan and a hamper. In second place was Purndai Darpat of Number 65 Village, Corentyne, who was presented $140,000 in cash, a trophy, a hamper, and a three-month data plan. His team also won the prize of $40,000, for best presentation. Coming in at third place was Robert Singh of the Curry Crew from Happy Acres, East Coast Demerara, who was awarded $120,000 in cash, a hamper, and a three-month data plan. The fourth place was a tie between Stanley Rampersaud of Berbice and Avinash Narine of Haslington,

Starting from scratch

Stirring the pot

A participant tending her pot of curried duck on Sunday

Enhancing the flavour

Awaiting announcement of the winners

both of whom were gifted $100,000 each, a hamper each and three months data

plan each. There were 13 consolation prize winners who each

got $10,000. According to Digicel Guyana’s Public Relations

Manager, Vidya Bijlal-Sanichara, this year’s participants came from far and

The winners with senior Digicel Guyana managers on Sunday (Photos by Adrian Narine)

wide, from all the way on the East Coast of Demerara, West Coast Demerara, Georgetown, and Berbice. For the Devanands, who hail from Stewartville, on the West Demerara, they were there as a family just for the fun of it. As for Seeranie Bachan and her family, it was their first time at the event and they journeyed all the way from Enmore, on the East Coast, to try their hands at curried duck. The Calypso Hut Posse had a much decorated table of goodies and other dishes for sampling, and that group was in high spirits on Sunday, stating that while they did not win last year, they had still fancied their chances this time around.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

President gives ... From page 2

President Granger looks on as a worker attached to AMCAR demonstrates how the heart of palm is harvested. to generate regional pride. He also made reference to the turmeric-processing factory in Region One and the sun-dried tomatoes facility in Paramakatoi. “Innovation, through agro-processing, also is fundamental to creating a more resilient agricultural sector. The founder of this company did something that no one did before; that is innovation… Agro-processing will increase farm incomes by making products from food, some of which would otherwise have been lost to spoilage. The transfer of technologies by companies from technologically advanced countries like France, can accelerate agro-processing at the industrial, community and household levels,” the President said. THE ORIGINAL MANDATE Meanwhile, AMCAR’s Managing-Director, Mr. Christophe Sureau, who, along with

his brother, took the helm of the company some eight years ago, said that they continue to operate in keeping [with] the original mandate of its founder, Mr. Pierre Saint-Arroman; that is, to produce value-added, organic products, while contributing to the sustainable development of communities in the region. Mr. Saint-Arroman, who moved to Guyana in 1983, served as the Honorary Consul for France to Guyana from August 12, 1991 to August 22, 2015. The company, today, has about 180 employees at its Drum Hill and Berbice factories and at its facility in Georgetown. Additionally, AMCAR employs about 500 hearts of palm harvesters. AMCAR is a Guyanese company that was registered in January 1986 and commenced operations in 1987. Currently, the Drum Hill facility produces about 500-600 bottles of hearts of palm per day. The final product is bottled in a brine solution of citric acid and salt before it is placed in a machine

to be cooked. The bottles are then transported to AMCAR’s storage facility in Georgetown to be labelled before it is shipped out to Europe. In European countries, especially France, the heart of palm is a popular delicacy, served mainly in salads and as pizza topping. At Monday’s ceremony, a plaque, which was built by the company to honour the memory of the late Mr. Saint-Arroman, was unveiled by President David Granger and his (Saint-Arroman) wife, Ms. Yola Saint-Arroman. Additionally, as part of the company’s anniversary celebration, three employees were presented with tokens of appreciation for their long and dedicated service. Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Mr. Sydney Allicock and Minister of Business, Mr. Dominic Gaskin also attended the event, along with Mr. Antoine Joly, Non-Resident Ambassador of the French Republic to Guyana.

President David Granger presenting a special token to one of AMCAR’s staff members, Mr. Andy Pierre, for his long and dedicated service to the company.

Corentyne farmer released on bail for causing death A 67-year-old rice farmer on Tuesday appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer to the charge of causing death by dangerous driving. Cromwell McDonald of Corentyne, denied that on October 28, at Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara, he drove PHH 5516 in in a dangerous manner causing the death of Narine Persaud. McDonald pleaded not-guilty to the charge while his attorney, Patrice Henry, made an application for reasonable bail for his client.

Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore, made no objection to bail but citing the defendant’s age requested that his licence be suspended. Moore told the court, that on the day in question, McDonald was driving along the Grove Public Road when it is alleged that he swerved from another vehicle and collided with Persaud who was standing at the side of the road. The Chief Magistrates released McDonald on $400,000 bail and adjourned the matter until November 16.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Fake kidnapping saga ...

‘Trini’ mastermind remanded –– accomplices on the run, blacklisted at airports here, in Trinidad

THE 33-year-old Trinidad national who faked his own kidnapping here in Guyana and demanded US$700,000 from his relatives back home, was on Tuesday remanded to prison. Sawak Maraj appeared

before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates Court for giving the police wrong information and conspiracy to commit a felony. He now has until November 16, when he makes another

court appearance, to seriously evaluate his silly actions. Particulars of the charge allege that on October 27, at Georgetown, Maraj knowingly gave false information to the police, stating that he was kidnapped and his abductors

demanded US$700,000 for his release. It is alleged that Maraj, on the same day and while at the Madewini Resort on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, conspired with two other persons to assist with negotiations to obtain the ransom. An attorney who appeared for Maraj told the court that his client is not a flight risk, and would stay in Guyana at the Marriott Hotel if granted bail. But Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore objected to his being released on bail, on the ground that the accused is not a Guyanese national. Moore further said that Maraj’s accomplices who assisted him in staging the kidnapping are on the run from the police, and have been blacklisted at the airports here and in Trinidad. It was in light of the objections raised by the prosecutor that the Chief Magistrate remanded Maraj until November 16.

A report from the police stated that Maraj arrived in Guyana last Friday, claiming that he came for a job interview and was picked up at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport by two other Trinidadian nationals, who had arrived in the country earlier in the week. Later the same day, Maraj’s relatives in Trinidad reportedly received a call from an unknown person claiming to have kidnapped Maraj shortly after his arrival, and demanding that a ransom be paid for his release. The man’s family was also sent a photograph showing him clad only in his boxers and socks with one of his alleged abductors holding a cutlass to his neck. The Guyana Police Force and agents from the Force’s Major Crimes Unit, after being contacted by the man’s family in Trinidad, immediately sprang into action and reviewed surveillance video

Trinidad national, Sawak Maraj at the airport. The viewed recording showed Maraj greeting his supposed abductors, these being the other two Trinidadian nationals, and boarding a taxi without incident. Aided by the surveillance tapes, the investigators were also able to track down the taxi driver who transported the men from the airport, and to trace the call that was made to demand the ransom that gave them the location of the phone from which it was made. Armed with such vital information, the agents then hurried to the location where they found Maraj, the supposedly kidnapped victim, in an apartment, “relaxing and sipping on beverages.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Truck driver charged, released on bail

–– for 2016 ‘causing death’ A little-over-a-year after Jonnel and Phillip Armstrong were both killed in a fatal accident on the Friendship Public Road on the East Bank of Demerara, a 27-year-old truck driver was Tuesday charged for their death. Ganshan Ramdass of Tushen Housing Scheme,

East Bank Essequibo, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied two charges of causing death by dangerous driving. He was released on $200, 000 bail on each charge and will return to court on November 16.. Particulars of both charges alleged that Ram-

dass on October 1, 2016 at Friendship Public Road, drove motor lorry GNN 5335 in a dangerous manner which resulted in the death of the siblings, Jonnel and Phillip Armstrong. Attorney-at-law Paul Fung-a-Fat who represented Ramdas, told the court that his client was placed on $50,000 station bail by the police. And with no

Security guard granted bail –– for killing Brazilian

A 55-year-old security guard was on Tuesday charged for the killing of a Brazilian man named “Neymar.” Christopher Ambrose of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD) appeared before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on October 24, at Seven-Hour Backdam,

Dukwarie, Cuyuni River, he unlawfully killed Ramanio Batista, called “Neymar”. Ambrose was represented by attorney-at-law, Latchmie Rahamat, who told the court that her client was attacked by Batista and he was forced to defend himself. The Chief Magistrate released Ambrose on $500,000 bail and transferred the matter to

Christopher Ambrose

Drug traffickers exploiting loophole –– sources say, following last weekend’s drug bust at John Fernandes Wharf IN the light of last weekend’s drug bust at the John Fernandes Wharf, reports have surfaced that drug traffickers are taking advantage of a loophole in the processing of containers to be shipped overseas. This is according to sources within the anti-narcotics bodies who noted that the traffickers are managing to find ways to re-open containers even after they have been sealed and cleared for shipping by the authorities. The loophole, a source noted, is that the shippers avoid moving their containers to Georgetown, citing costs to do so. As such, officers attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) would inspect the containers at the properties operated by the shippers. It was noted that the shippers would re-enter containers by unscrewing bolts and nuts, and in the process, are able to remove the doors without tampering with the seals placed there by the law enforcement agencies after official inspection. Last Sunday, the Guyana Chronicle reported that law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Unit of the Guyana Revenue authority (GRA) and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU)

stumbled upon suspected cocaine destined for Europe. CANU subsequently reported that 67 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine was discovered in the shipment of rice. The rice was being exported to SF Trading BV, Nederland, by Golden Grains Investments Limited of Barr Street, Kitty. The Guyana Chronicle has learnt that the shipment, which was examined and sealed at Perseverance, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, was destined to leave for Belgium aboard a ship from the John Fernandes Wharf at approximately midnight on Friday. But following reports that there may have been a breach of the shipment before it arrived at the wharf for loading, the search was activated. The proprietor of Golden Grains Investment allegedly bought the shipment of rice from a businessman in Berbice and packed the containers at another location which he owns. The company is said to be a first-time shipper and this was among the red flags which the anti-narcotics agencies considered. One person remains in custody as investigations into the drug bust continue.

objection raised by Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore, the Chief Magistrate allowed Ramdass his pre-trial liberty. According to reports, on the day in question, the two brothers and a friend were heading to Linden in a Toyota Rav4 when they collided with a truck that was heading in the opposite direction.

Reports are that the driver, who was one of the brothers and was reportedly speeding at the time, lost control as he was negotiating a turn and ended up in the path of the truck. The driver of the truck managed to swerve but the Rav4 slammed into the side of the truck. The brothers were pronounced dead at the Diamond Diagnostic

Centre. Traffic ranks who responded to the scene are of the view that the wet road might have played a part in the accident. The mother of the dead siblings is the Region 10 Health Officer, Dr. Pansy Armstrong, and reports are that the sons were on their way home to assist her in redecorating.

the Bartica Magistrate Court’s for November 6. Ambrose was also ordered to report to the Bartica Police Station every Friday. According to reports, on the day in question,

Batista and his wife, a businesswoman of Charlotte Street, Georgetown, had an argument which erupted into a fight during which Ambrose intervened and tried to calm

them down. Subsequently the victim picked up a cutlass and attacked the suspect which resulted in Ambrose shooting him to the face.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Guyana to be on par with international food safety standards

A FOOD and Drug Laboratory Complex is slated to be established at the University of Guyana’s (UG) Turkeyen campus following a ground-breaking ceremony. The new complex will lessen Guyana’s dependence on external laboratories to conduct analyses, which has restricted access to some international markets. It will also allow improved monitoring, regulation and compliance with international standards required to penetrate these markets. Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, on Monday explained with new export requirements for European markets, partic-

ularly for seafood products and the implementation of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the U.S. is ensuring the safety of its food supply. This is being done by shifting the focus from responding to contamination to preventing it. Therefore, products which do not comply with the law will be rejected. “The international arena is rapidly changing and Guyana does not want to remain obsolete. We must be competitive, we must be robust and be able to respond to challenges such as those soon to be presented,” Minister Lawrence explained.

“Discussions between the Government Analyst and Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) and Faculty of Natural Sciences and Health Sciences, UG, have been on-going since 2014 and have proven fruitful, Director of the GA-FDD”, Marlon Cole said. The GA-FDD is the unit that facilitates the analysis, licensing and certification of locally produced export commodities such as rice, sugar, rum, seafood, processed foods and pharmaceuticals. It is also responsible for ensuring that the distribution, marketing and production of commodities (local and imported) meet the highest quality and safe-

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence and Professor Ivelaw Griffith, ViceChancellor and Principal of the University of Guyana turning the soil at the site for the Food and Drug Laboratory Complex. ty standards. “It is imperative that our international trade is not jeopardised”, Minister Lawrence emphasised. She noted that Tuesday’s event was a ‘timely and necessary’ one, because the present facility, which is housed in the IAST building, “falls short of international standards.” Approximately $117M was allocated in the 2017

National Budget for the consultation, and construction of the lab. Cole said there is an ongoing conformity assessment and the long-awaited facility’s construction, will begin early next year. The GA-FDD has been preparing the local agro-processing industry to meet the FSMA standards, through requirement training work-

shops for local manufactures and producers. This will allow the department to expand and move forward in the export industry. Meanwhile, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, Vice-Chancellor and UG Principal observed that in building relations such as these, his vision of a research park is well underway. (DPI)

Mayor worried about compensation ––following massive flooding at Riverview, Alexander Village FOLLOWING the flooding at Riverview and Alexander Village earlier this month, reportedly caused by the negligence of those manning the koker, Mayor Patricia Chase-Green has said that no one has since come forward to write to the City Council seeking compensation. “There was no compensation paid; they asked who will compensate us, but I don’t think anyone would have written seeking such compensation,” Chase-Green told the Guyana Chronicle in an invited comment recently. “I know there have been millions of dollars lost. How do we look at compensation? I don’t know,” she said. The two persons left in charge of the River View koker who residents alleged slept through the high tide resulting in massive flooding in those communities, were handed letters to proceed on administrative leave to facilitate an investigation. The two men, the supervisor and pump attendant, were directly involved in the operations of the sluice when the tragedy occurred, and City Engineer Colvern Venture was subsequently asked by Town Clerk Royston King to provide an analysis of the condition of all sluices and pumps

in the city. Meanwhile, residents have blamed the mishap on the koker attendant, whom they said fell asleep and left the koker door open during the rising tide. “I was coming home from wake at 12:00hrs and I noticed that the water was coming in from Ruimveldt (Police) Station area,” one resident of Alexander Village said. “We see the koker door open; it went high. We hear, ‘Get up, get up! Like this man sleep away and left the koker door open!’ “So said, so done! By the time we knock at the door, the water done start coming in. The most we get fuh do is put up the chair them,” he told the Guyana Chronicle. A teacher from the same community was left pondering who was going to compensate her family for their losses. “Everything in my house is damaged right now; the chairs, the fridge, the vanity, the computer. “I am a teacher; that [computer] is one of my main tools. Who is going to reimburse me these things? It is no fault of ours, but the fault of the guy at the koker,” she said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Customer finds dead bug in bread

A GEORGETOWN grandmother was about to prepare sandwiches on Tuesday morning when she stumbled upon a bug in her loaf of bread. According to the woman, she purchased the loaf of bread at a popular Sheriff Street supermarket on Monday. She said she woke up on Tuesday morning with the intention of making sandwiches for her grandchildren. “A sealed bag of bread,” she said, noting that the bug was baked into a slice

of the bread. The woman expressed anger at the situation, noting that it disrupted her morning’s plans. Last week an East Ruimveldt bread vendor was furious after receiving complaints from customers about the bread they had purchased at her shop. She said that the issue was alarming, since more than one customer returned the bread they had purchased earlier as they all had several dead insects inside them. She said she had purchased the bread from a popular bakery in the city.

Chairman, deputy elected by Local Government Commissioners THE eight-member Local Government Commission met in Parliament Buildings Monday with the first order of business being election of a chairman and vice-chairman. This saw Commissioner Mortimer Mingo, the only nominee for the position, being elected unopposed as the chairman. Commissioner Andrew Garnett was elected by majority vote as the vice-chairman of the Local Government Commission. After elections were held, the new Chairman of the Commission, Mortimer Mingo, said that the commissioners had deliberated in a very cordial manner on a number of issues, which included activities that are required for the start-up of the Local Government Commission, while issues of budgeting and identification of a building to locate the commission and its activities as stated in section 12 to 16 of the Local Government Act were foremost in the discussion. The local Government Chairman noted that he was pleased with the progress of the new commission thus far, adding that setting up of the commission should have commenced since 2013 by the previous government when the Fiscal Transfers Bill 2012, Municipal and District Councils (Amendment) Bill and the Local Government Commission Bill were assented to by the then former president Donald Ramotar. The new Local Government Commissioners are Mortimer Mingo, Clement Corlette, Andrew Garnette, Joan Ann Romascindo, Marlon Williams, Norman Whittaker, Clinton Collymore and Carol Sooba.. During the 2013 parliamentary session with its majority in the Select Committee, the APNU and the AFC then opposition had stripped the Local Government Minister of the right to hire and fire Neighbourhood Democratic Councillors and handed them to the Local Government Commission. Government’s desire to give the minister the right to appoint regional executive officers to the Neighbourhood Councils was also struck down by the opposition. The PPP/C Government had, however, argued that it should play a major role in local governance since it was central government that spent the bulk of cash in locally governed areas. The then opposition APNU and the AFC had countered by accusing the then government of attempting to dilute the local government system through ministerial diktat.

There have been several instances in which customers discovered insects in various foods after purchase. Members of the public have been calling on the health authorities to inspect the food preparation practices at food outlets in the city.

The bread the customer purchased, dead bug and all

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

New ticketing system for littering set to kick off

–– with review of by-laws almost completed LAWYERS for the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) have already commenced reviewing the by-laws of the ticketing system for littering, a new initiative that is soon to become a reality in the city. Town Clerk Royston King said last week at a council meeting that such by-laws should be ready early in this week. The M&CC had said that it wanted the new system in place before the end of October. It is to impose fines ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, with imprisonment as the consequence of a failure to pay. The decision to implement this system came as a result of the high level of indiscipline, especially in the business community, regarding littering in Georgetown, King had said when he announced it last September. “Areas freshly cleaned, if you go back right now, you will see those areas littered all over again. People are littering with gay abundance [sic], except if you put in place stiffer fines, sanctions, and the ticketing system,” King had said. He added: “This would allow people caught littering to pay a fine to the Council directly, and almost immediately, so that you don’t have to go through the court system.” He further explained that the new system will accomplish many positives, including providing the Council with resources to manage the city’s waste, and working as a deterrent to people who are bent on hurting the environment. According to King, the City Constabulary’s anti-littering squad is working in all local neighbourhoods, particularly in the central business district, and officers will be armed with cameras so that the litter bugs can be found. The City Council also wants to put in place a programme called “Name and Shame” in the media. Meanwhile, every person who contravenes the bylaws would be subjected to the aforementioned fines, which are to be paid within 72 hours from the time notice is given of the imposition of the fine. Failure to pay attracts an additional fine of $10,000 for every 24 hours payment remains outstanding. Furthermore, according to the proposed by-law, every person who remains in default of payment for more than 72 hours commits an offence, and upon summary conviction is liable to imprisonment for a period of no less than 24 hours, but not exceeding 120 hours. “I believe that because we do not have these penalties and fines in place, people find an incentive to do what they’re doing. It’s unfair to the city, it’s unfair to decent-minded Guyanese and we have to stop it,” King stated. “This applies to even someone throwing a cigarette butt on the ground, to someone throwing a bag away with unwanted stuff. It applies to everyone found littering,” King clarified. According to the proposed by-laws, litter means any solid or liquid material or product such as rubbish, refuse, garbage, paper package, container, bottle, cans, manure, human or animal excrement, the whole or part of an animal carcass, coal, wood, gravel, earth, sawdust, glass, plastic, nails, stables, tacks, scraps or metal, and expended tobacco products. It also refers to the whole or part of any article, raw or processed material, vehicle or machinery of any type. Regarding empty lots around the city, the by-laws state: “No person shall throw, place leave or deposit litter upon private property without the consent of the owner of the property. Where on any grounds, yard or vacant lot or property there is litter, the owner shall move such litter from the land, so that the land is left in a clean condition.” Furthermore, “No person shall urinate or defecate in the city except in a public washroom or portable or other such facility provided specifically for those purposes.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Dorothy Bailey Health Centre gets refrigerator, chairs

THE Public Health Ministry handed over a refrigerator and 50 chairs to the Dorothy Bailey Health Centre on Tuesday. During the simple handing-over ceremony, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, said though small, the donation would be of great service to the health centre, which services a very large catchment area in Georgetown. She noted that the Public Health Ministry continues to collaborate with the municipality of Georgetown to ensure that adequate public healthcare of a high standard is offered at health centres

managed by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. “This partnership between the Ministry of Public Health and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council is one that is evolving to ensure that together we maintain and uphold best quality public health-care standards and practices in the daily delivery of service to the people served,” she said. Minister Cummings said as the ministry continues to foster and strengthen its relationship with the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, it looks forward to more collaborative work, noting that together the lives of people will be improved

Way clear for criminal prosecution of Rasul By Svetlana Marshall THE way has been cleared for Bartica gold dealer Saddiqi “Bobby” Rasul to face criminal prosecution with Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire discharging the order nisi. Earlier in the year, Rasul was charged with six counts of obtaining money by false pretence after he was fingered in a $956M fraud at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI). However, he later moved to the High Court, filing an application for the charges against him to be quashed. But when the decision was handed down on Tuesday by Justice George-Wiltshire the order nisi was discharged, and Rasul was ordered to pay each of the respondents $25, 000. The State was represented by Principal Legal Advisor Judy Stuart-Adonis and retired Justice Ian Chang. Tuesday’s ruling means that Magistrate Crystal Lambert is now free to proceed on the charges and Justice Chang is free to prosecute. When Rasul appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates Court in April, SSS Minerals Trading Enterprise pleaded not guilty to the six charges and requested that bail be granted. He had appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Though the prosecutor had objected, Magistrate McLennan released the 34-yearold businessman on $3M bail. The charges alleged that between March 21 and 22, 2017 at Bartica, with intent to defraud, he obtained the sum of $290M, $298M, $138M, $45M, $89M and $96M from GBTI by falsely pretending he had cash in his account at Citizens Bank to honour the cheques he encashed. His lawyer Sandil Kissoon explained to the court that his client is being crimi-

Saddiqi “Bobby” Rasul nalised for the negligence of GBTI, which decided to pay the money without verifying the standard balance of Rasul’s Citizen’s Bank account. In Kissoon’s application for bail, he explained that his client does not pose a flight risk since he is a prominent businessman in Bartica, who owns several dredges, mining claims and lots. Police Prosecutor Alvin Moore strongly opposed bail on the ground that the accused is under investigation for similar offences. According to the prosecutor, the police will soon issue a wanted bulletin for a female manager at GBTI. Bail was granted and the case was transferred to the Bartica Magistrates Court. According to officials, Citizens Bank had closed the accounts of Rasul, after noticing several suspicious transactions in his accounts. At the GBTI Bartica branch, cheques drawn on Citizens Bank and totalling over $900M were deposited in Rasul’s accounts. It is protocol that banks would normally hold other banks cheques until they are cleared, before making payments against them. However, it appears as though this procedure was not followed by GBTI officials.

and their access to services enhanced. In response, Nurse Marilyn Gordon expressed gratitude on behalf of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. “I would like to thank the Ministry of Public Health for this donation today which will surely help us to better serve our clients. We look forward to engaging the Ministry of Public Health in other similar initiatives, which can help to further enhance the public health services offered here at the Dorothy Bailey Health Centre,” she said.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, handing over the refrigerator and chairs to Nurse Marilyn Gordon in the presence of officials of the City Council and nursing staff of the centre

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Mess to Messenger Saiku is committed to fostering hope and unity

“Man ah plan, God ah wipe out/ True, me nah have no more white mouth/ Go look a job, dem give me stress/ Through dem see me have a ghetto address!” The heart of West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme in the capital city of Georgetown, Guyana, is the location of the ‘address’ to which Saiku, the singer/ song writer/entrepreneur, refers in ‘Pillow Could Speak’ – the opening song of his debut album, ‘You’, launched in May, 2017. The ‘white mouth’ allusion cuts straight to the point of the struggles Saiku faced growing up in a single parent household with nine other siblings and headed by his

mother in a two bedroom apartment. His father, a fish-monger by trade, died while Saiku was only three years old – leaving a wide gap of male influence in the youngster’s life. This was a worrying fact, especially for his mother who worked extremely hard to ensure her family was provided for, as the majority of the male influences of the community were negative in nature. As such, she sought to protect young Saiku as best as she could – from the illicit drugs, the crime, the violence and the overall hopelessness that seemed rampant in the community. He recalls having to “bargain” with his mother for a chance

to play beyond the confines of the small enclosure of their apartment’s front entrance that was bounded by an always locked gate. Like the average boy in West, he relished the idea of “running football” in the neighbourhood streets. Saiku attributes much of his interest and prowess in business and life to the lessons he learnt from his “hardworking and free-handed” mother, attributes that he continues to practice in his own life. “I was just an average student”, he said of his primary and secondary years of schooling. While recognizing education as a means to elevate himself from a life of poverty, as well as his potential to excel academically, Saiku often lacked the interest and personal discipline to apply himself fully to his studies. Nevertheless, he managed to complete his secondary education at the Richard Ishmael Secondary School and subsequently a Bachelor of Science in Economics at the University of Guyana. Saiku Andrews discovered his ability to sing at the age of eleven and dreamt of “making it big” ever since. Yet, it seemed as though his “chance to shine” was always being delayed. He recalled witnessing a neighbourhood dispute from his bedroom window and writing “how are we gonna survive, if we keep taking one another’s life? Like there’s no tomorrow, with all of this war and sorrow!” – the chorus of a song he created and gave to a friend of his that managed the famous Guyanese Rastafarian Group, First Born. The finished song gained international success and was recorded with Jamaican Reggae Legend, Buju Banton. Another opportunity presented itself when Saiku was poised to make his debut on the international stage at Caribana in Toronto, Canada. Everything was set, or so it seemed. Saiku was never able on that occasion to leave Guyana’s shores as the promoter that set the deal was nabbed by local authorities for illegal activities – another hope deferred. In a country that offers little reward, recognition or protection to artistic talents, Saiku focused his energies on entrepreneurial pursuits while not letting go of his musical dreams. After accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour, Saiku began using his writing and singing talents to express his gratitude for salvation at Youth Conventions and Church concerts locally and eventually internationally. It was during this time that he met and married his bestfriend Toisha. It was this union and the support of his wife that enabled Saiku to better realize his entrepreneurial and musical dreams. Saiku remembers the “overwhelming sense of responsibility” that grabbed hold of him as he and his new wife lived in their first home – a tenement yard on Durban Street, Lodge. He felt the walls of the small apartment almost literally “closing in” on him, his family and his dreams. Though he was challenged to surrender, his faith in God and the unswerving support of his wife enabled them to firstly open an internet café, followed by a snackette, then a distributorship and eventually one of the most successful local supermarkets, Andrews Supermarket. However, the journey was far from over. Amidst growth in business and recognition as the lead vocalist for the 2nd Coming Gospel Band, Saiku shares that “God had more in store” for him. He was privileged to meet and host Prodigal Son, Jamaican Gospel sensation, while he visited Guyana in 2016. During this time they developed a friendship unrelated to Saiku’s musical talents. As he puts it, the two became “brethren”, relating as “one man to another”. Prodigal Son later became aware of Saiku’s talents when he stepped in to open a concert Prodigal Son was performing at in Linden. Yet, had it not been for Mrs. Andrews, Mr. Andrews may never have accepted Prodigal’s offer to travel to Jamaica to meet legendary producer, Danny Brownie. The journey to the land of Reggae and Dancehall enabled the three to produce Saiku’s first album – one that’s very relevant in today's world, having something for everyone as it touches real life situations. Saiku's desire is to continue sharing his life experiences and lessons with the world in hope that it brings tangible positive change to the lives of those who listen. He is bent on showing that if he could’ve transitioned from ‘A Mess to a Messenger’ like the second song on his album, anyone, anywhere can rise to the occasion and not submit to being a product of their environment. GTT proudly celebrates and supports the spirit and efforts of Saiku, a Guyanese Warrior committed to fostering hope, love and unity in communities across Guyana. Saiku is one of the key performers along with International Gospel Artiste Travis Greene at the GTT Hope is Rising Gospel Concert on Friday night at the National Stadium, Providence.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Stafrei Alexander found guilty ––to know fate Nov. 23, for Laing Ave. attempted murder

AN 11-member jury on Monday afternoon found recaptured prisoner, Stafrei Alexander, 34, guilty for an attempt to commit murder on March 22, 2015 at Laing Avenue, Georgetown, but he will not know his fate until November 23, next, when he is due to be sentenced After deliberating for about four hours, the jury, one of whom was discharged, returned to the courtroom and delivered the verdict in the proportion of nine to two. The verdict was delivered before Justice Brassington Reynolds, where defence attorney, Stanley Moore, after the verdict was announced made a plea of mitigation and asked for leniency in the sentencing. In the State’s response, Prosecutor Lisa Cave said that any punishment considered and handed down by the court to the accused must reflect the abhorrent nature of the crime committed, and the circumstances under which it was done. It must likewise deter like-minded individuals from committing such an offence. Cave, who noted that the accused used a gun to do the act and the number of times he did, reminded the court that the victim is still suffering from the injuries he sustained and is due to undergo another surgery shortly. However, with a proba-

tion report on Alexander to be presented, Justice Reynolds adjourned sentencing to November 23, 2017 at 13:30 hrs Initially, at the opening of the trial, State Prosecutor Tiffany Lyken, while addressing the court said that in the case of the State versus Alexander, the victim is Curtis Thom who resides at Lot 138 Laing Avenue, Georgetown, with his wife, children and sister-in-law, in an apartment situated on the lower flat of a wooden range house. She related that though the victim is known to the accused for about 10 years, they are not friends. On March 22, 2015, Thom held a christening in celebration of his newborn baby at his home and the event ended at about 01:00 hrs the next morning. Lyken told the court that Thom cleaned his front yard and went to the back to feed his dogs and encountered the accused, who, when he passed him, grumbled something. She added that Thom proceeded to lock up his dogs and go into his house via the back door and by his back, as he was of the belief that with a newborn in the house, he should enter that way to prevent evil spirits from entering. At this point, Lyken said that as Thom was entering his house, he saw the accused in front of him and heard a loud explosion, then felt

India gives US$1.1M to Antigua and Barbuda –– following hurricanes Irma and Maria

THE Government of India has contributed US$100,000 as part of assistance for relief and rebuilding in the aftermath of disaster caused to Antigua and Barbuda as a consequence of hurricanes Irma and Maria in September. Some 90 per cent of the structures on the island of Barbuda were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Irma, which led to a complete evacuation from the island to Antigua. Roads, electrical, communications and water systems were also damaged. An estimated 50 per cent of the population lost their homes. “In addition, the Government of India in support of various reconstruction projects in Antigua and Barbuda following the natural disaster, has committed US$1M through the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which manages the India—UN Development Partnership Fund, to initiate the conversation with the relevant authorities of Antigua and Barbuda for an appropriate project identify by it, following consultation with the concerned UN authorities,” the Indian High Commission in Georgetown, which is also concurrently accredited to Antigua and Barbuda said in a release. The release said the funds have already been released so that the project once identified by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda could start as soon as possible, following consultation with the UN authorities. “This fulfils the commitment made by Indian External Affairs Minister Ms. Sushma Swaraj during the India-CARICOM Ministerial meeting held on September 19 2017, as a token of solidarity with the friendly country -- Antigua and Barbuda,” the release concluded.

Stafrei Alexander being led to the courtroom

a stinging sensation to the right side of his chest. The accused was said to have been about six feet away, and was pointing a shiny revolver and discharging the weapon at the victim. She told the court that Thom asked the accused, “What the (bleep) you shooting at me for?” And as he was falling to the ground, she said, he heard two more explosions. He started to scream, and managed to crawl into his

house, by which time he felt a stinging pain on the left side of his back. Lyken said Thom related that nothing was blocking his view from seeing the accused, whom he recognised since there was adequate light. She said there were no eyewitnesses to the incident given the time of day, and while no gun was found, the victim has injuries to show and spent seven weeks in the hospital after surgery.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Guyana beat rivals Suriname... From Backpage

The outstanding players for French Guiana were Sael Geer and Julien Gaillot in the under 18 boys, who won gold for their country. For Suriname, the Under 14 boys, Yannick Issa and Shane Hermelijin secured the most win for their country. The Guyana team which benefited immensely from being able to train at the GBTI Tennis Courts over the last

through their hard work and dedication. Home court advantage brought additional excitement to the Guyanese team as vocal supporters were able to `egg on’ the players to higher levels and win some very competitive matches. Sponsors for the event included, Demerara Distillers Limited, Desinco, Star Party Rental, Massay, De Sinco, Guyana Olympic

two months, was a well-oiled unit and was finally able to turn the tables in 2017. Special credit also has to go to coaches Shelly Ramdyhan and Leyland Leacock, and all the other tennis coaches who assisted in their preparation. The Guyana Tennis Association, sponsors, parents and friends of tennis were also instrumental in making the achievement possible

Association, National Sports Commission, Assuria, Banks DIH, Mae’s School, GBTI, RKV Persaud Land Surveying Services, Sheltez Tennis Club, Harry Panday, Rorima Tennis Club, Non-Pariel Tennis Club and Le Ressouvenir Tennis Club. The next Cup of the Guianas tournament will be held in Suriname in 2018.

Dowrich and Holder rescue Windies after Raza heroics SHANE Dowrich and Jason Holder moved West Indies into the lead after Sikandar Raza’s maiden five-wicket Test haul put Zimbabwe in a promising position on day three of the second Test. Raza struck a valuable 80 in Zimbabwe’s first innings of 326

in Bulawayo and the all-rounder showed his quality with the ball on Tuesday, reducing the tourists to 230-7. Wicketkeeper-batsman Dowrich (75 not out) and captain Holder (71no) came to the rescue, though, combining for an unbroken stand of 144 for the eighth wicket to move the Windies on to 374-7 at stumps. Kieran Powell, dropped on 11 and 85, fell 10 runs short of a first Test century since 2012 before Dowrich and Holder moved West Indies into a 48-run lead with two days remaining as they attempt to seal a 2-0 series whitewash. Powell brought up his half-century in the third over of the day after

the Windies resumed on 78-1 and added 55 for the second wicket with Devendra Bishoo (23), who was dropped by Brendan Taylor off Graeme Cremer not long before Raza had the nightwatchman caught and bowled. Raza (5-82) struck again to snare Kyle Hope (1) leg before and Cremer put down a chance to get rid of Powell when he closed in on a century, but the opener’s 230-ball knock – which included seven boundaries – ended when Sean Ervine took a fine diving catch in the gully off Chris Mpofu. Roston Chase (32) crashed a delivery against the sightscreen just before lunch as Shai Hope (40) ticked along

nicely at the other end, but Raza continued to wreak havoc, trapping his fellow-spinner lbw and removing Jermaine Blackwood in his next over. The Windies trailed by 96 with just three wickets remaining when Raza cleaned up the in-form Shai Hope for 30, but Dowrich and Holder got their side out trouble with their sixth and seventh Test half-centuries respectively. Dowrich struck nine boundaries in accomplished knock, while Holder struck Raza down the ground for six and hit six fours as Zimbabwe failed to strike again in a frustrating final session which swung the match in West Indies’ favour. (Omnisport)

SCOREBOARD ZIMBABWE 1st innings 326 West Indies 1st innings (overnight 78 for one) K Brathwaite c Masakadza b Cremer 32 K Powell c Ervine b Mpofu 90 D Bishoo c & b Sikandar Raza 23 K Hope lbw b Sikandar Raza 1 S Hope b Sikandar Raza 40

R Chase lbw b Sikandar Raza 32 J Blackwood c Cremer b Sikandar Raza 5 +S Dowrich not out 75 *J Holder not out 71 Extras (b2, lb2, nb1) 5 TOTAL (7 wkts, 150 overs) 374 To bat: K Roach, S Gabriel. Fall of wickets: 1-76 , 2-131, 3-135, 4-163, 5-219, 6-225,

7-230. Bowling: Mpofu 21-7-46-1, Mire 5-2-5-0, Cremer 43-7134-1, Raza 43-12-82-5, Chisoro 34-7-94-0, Masakadza 4-1-9-0. Position: West Indies lead by 48 runs with three wickets remaining.

layeen 15:55 hrs Champagne Rules Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 13:10 hrs Shinko Princess 13:40 hrs Loving A Boom 14:10 hrs Bluesbreaker 14:40 hrs Arstic Melody 15:10 hrs Sheisdiesel 15:40 hrs Pipes Of Peace 16:10 hrs Tenth Amendment 16:40 hrs Ben Rumson English Racing Tips Nottingham 08:30 hrs UAE Soldier 09:00 hrs Ispolini 09:30 hrs Monaadhil 10:00 hrs Whinging Willie 10:30 hrs Lydiate Lady 11:00 hrs Dellaguista

Taunton 09:20 hrs Tunnel Creek 09:50 hrs Rasasee 10:20 hrs Dentley De Mee 10:50 hrs Copperfacejack 11:20 hrs Red Tornado 11:50 hrs Generous Chief 12:20 hrs St Andrews

American Racing Tips Finger Lakes Race 1 Hypnotca Race 2 Cement Job Race 3 Space On the Couch Race 4 Indominus Race 5 Gins Diamond Race 6 Chump Change Race 7 Calculated Risk Race 8 Twist ‘n Shout

Kempton 12:25 hrs Zapateado 12:55 hrs Exec Chef 13:25 hrs Waiting Room 13:55 hrs Dashing Poet 14:25 hrs Damacles 14:55 hrs Innoko 15:25 hrs Yamarhaba Ma-

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 08:50 hrs Sweet Treat 09:25 hrs Princess Analia 10:05 hrs Northern Rebel 10:40 hrs Liquid Rainbow 11:15 hrs Haddington

11:30 hrs Hitchcock 12:00 hrs Rock On Dandy

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, Novemberr 1, 2017

England must end their 31-year winless streak at the Gabba says Anderson (REUTERS) - England fast bowler James Anderson believes his team must end their 31-year winless streak in Brisbane next month against Australia to set a marker for the rest of the Ashes series. draw at the Gabba was enough for England to launch a successful Ashes tour of 2010-11, but Anderson wants to go one better to silence the home crowd. “Both teams have gone through a transitional phase over the last two years,” Anderson, England’s record test wicket-taker with 506 dismissals, told Sky Sports. ”Both teams have start-

ed to show signs of real quality I think but have also been pretty inconsistent, so it is going to be about whoever starts well. “The Gabba has been a bit of a fortress for Australia, they’ve not lost there since 1988 so coming away from there with a result - whether it is a draw or a win - I think is important to how the series will go.” Anderson was the leading wicket-taker as England won the Ashes in 2010-11 but has also been on the receiving end of two series whitewashes by Australia. The 35-year-old be-

England fast bowler James Anderson

lieves the pitches in Australia and Englan d in recent years have offered

similar challenges. “I think the same things apply as they do in England,” Anderson said of bowling in Australia. ”The biggest adjustment for me is that it is not going to swing as much, so finding other ways of getting wickets is important for myself. “Generally though, the pitches are similar to in England. You might get a little bit more bounce and potentially a little bit less grass on them but generally they’re not that much different.” The first match of the five-test series starts in Brisbane on Nov. 23.

Invaders Masters humble Aurora S.C in 40-overs tourney THE South Essequibo Cricket Committee’s -sponsored 40 overs cricket competition continued last Sunday with Invaders Masters being on the winning list. Played at the Affiance Number 1 ground, Invaders Masters won the toss and batted. The game however was reduced to a 25-overs affair due to rain with the Masters compiling 189-9 from their allotted overs. Former national youth player, Beesham Seepersaud, with an unbeaten 39 (4x4), Balram Lakhan 37 (3x4) and Linden Daniels 33 (3x4 and 2x6) all made valuable contributions to the eventual total. In the bowling department two wickets apiece were from

Roshan Alli, 2-41 and Deonarine Singh, 2-33. In reply, Aurora S.C was restricted to 146-8 from their 25 overs, to lose by 43 runs. Medium fast bowler Rayborn Gonsalves 3-15, Devindra Lakhan 3-21 and Richie Bishop 2-27 combined to inspire a comfortable victory for the masters. Meanwhile the competition will continue this weekend with matches slated for the NOC, Golden Fleece and Affiance Number 1 grounds. Cash incentives and trophies will be presented at the completion of the competition which is being coordinated by the South Essequibo Cricket Committee.

Grill Master beat Spartan in thriller to clinch Busta Champion of Champions trophy IN what could be described as the most thrilling and exciting cricket finals ever organised by Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Grill Master defeated Spartan by one wicket to emerge the 2017 Champions of the Busta Champion or Champions softball tournament. Played in front of a large and colourful crowd at the Area ‘H’ Ground in Rose Hall Town in glorious weather, Grill Master held their nerve to clinch victory with two balls remaining and the last pair at the wicket. Grill Master won the toss and elected to bowl first in the 12-overs final. Spartan reached a formidable 141 for 6 off their allotted 12-overs with Krishon Sukhai 43 (3 sixes and 2 boundaries), Joshua Diaram 34, being the principal scorers. In reply, Grill Master was fortunate that opener Keith Fraser was dropped by Kishan Gangaram off the first ball of the innings. Fraser and fellow opener Vishal Phillips then punished the Spartan bowlers to all parts of the ground,

“The Winning Grill Master team celebrate with officials of the Guyana Beverage Company Inc”.

adding 69 runs off just 5.3 overs before Phillips was dismissed for 30. Fraser went on to top score with 44 before he was second out at 85 for 2 in the 8th over. Grill Master lost their way as Balram Samaroo 04, Roy Jaferally 15, Devindra Ramoutar 00, Oliver Giddings 03 were dismissed cheaply to leave their team needing 36 from 3-overs. Keon Sinclair (13) and Wahied Edwards (20) added 30 crucial runs in 2-overs before Sinclair was dismissed off the fourth delivery of the eleventh over. With the dismissal of

Edwards, Grill Master needed six runs off five balls, but a composed No. 10 Steve Sampson struck a boundary to ease the tension. John Percival was then run out for nought and the last pair was required to score two runs off two balls. A nervous Joshua Diaram then bowled two successive wides to hand victory to the relieved Grill Master Team. Earlier in the day, Grill Master thrashed Terry Grocery XI by nine wickets in the first semi-finals. Terry Grocery XI batting first amassed 80 for 2 off ten Overs with Sanesh Sundar 32 not out and Khemraj

Mahadeo 33 not out being the principal scorers. In response, Vishal Phillips 39 not out and Balram Samaroo 26 not out led Grill Master to 84 for 1 off 6.4 overs after Keith Fraser was dismissed early for 8. Spartan defeated Hard Knock by 7 wickets after restricting them to 60 all out. Only V. Emmanuel 21 and Ryan Braithwaite 12 reached double figures as Krishon Sukhai 2 for 10, Sunil Madramootoo and David Lukenauth 2 for 9 bowled well for Spartan. Lukenauth returned with the bat to score an unbeaten 30 to lead his team into the finals. In the third place

match, Hard Knock made light work of Terry Crocery XI to beat them by 8 wickets. Terry Grocery reached 63 for 5 off their allotted 8 Overs before skipper Eldine Mendonca with 33 not out led his team to the 3rd Place prize package. Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the 14th edition of the Busta Champion of Champions Tournament as a resounding success and described the final as the best-ever witnessed in his 26 years at the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club. . General Manager of

the Guyana Beverage Company Robert Selman, Commercial Manager. Arjune and Marketing Co-ordinator Raymond Govindan all praised the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club for organising a Tournament that properly represented the Busta Brand. Selman, stated the bond with the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club was a huge success story for his Company and committed to a long term relationship. The winning team received $150 000.00 and the Busta Trophy, the 1st Runner-up $75 000.00 and trophy, 2nd Runner-up $50 000.00 and trophy while Fraser received a financial reward and trophy after being named Man of the Finals. Fraser and David Lukenauth received special trophies after being named best batsman and bowler in the final respectively. Funds raised by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club during the tournament would be used by its ten cricket teams to provide food hampers for less fortunate families during the upcoming Festive Season.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Deo triumphs in inaugural Silica Sandport golf tourney

In photoe, from Left to Right: Avinash Persaud, Roger Rajkumar, Aleem Hussein, Joaan Deo, Pdt Haresh’s daughter, Pdt Ravi Persaud, Pdt Haresh’s wife, Pdt Haresh Tewari, and President Hilbert Shields.

EMPHASISING that she is still in fine form, reigning twotime Guyana Open female champion, Joaan Deo, triumphed over a field of mainly male golfers to emerge winner of the inaugural Silica Sandport golf tournament. Deo, the only female competitor in the Medal Play format tournament which was contested Sunday last at the Lusignan Golf Club contends that she is ready for the upcoming Guyanan Open. She indicated that she had planned to perform well on Sunday, mentally preparing her for a great performance over

the coming weekend’s Guyana Open tournament. Deo satisfied that she accomplished her plan and therefore by extension is serving all the female competitors notice that she intends to defend well! Lusignan Golf Club president, Hilbert Shields, was on hand to congratulate the winners and golfers on their good performance and to thank (Pandit) Haresh Tewari of Silica Sandport, for their timely sponsorship of this tournament, one week before the Guyana Open. Pandit Haresh, former Treasurer of the LGC, and himself an avid golfer who has won

several trophies, was delighted to contribute to the preparation of golfers for this significant tournament of Saturday and Sunday November 4th and 5th coming. Golfers in the winners’ row were as follows. Best net places: 1st - Joaan Deo – Net 62, Handicap 21; 2nd – (Pdt) Rabindranath (Ravi) Persaud 66/21; and 3rd – Aleem Hussein – 68/17. Best Gross winner – Avinash Persaud, (defending Guyana Open male champion) parred the course for a second time within two weeks with score 72. Nearest to The Pin – approximately 3 feet -was Roger Rajkumar.

Silverwood accepts role as England’s fast-bowling coach By Ali Martin CHRIS Silverwood, the mastermind behind Essex winning the county championship this year, has accepted the role as England’s fast bowling coach. The former Yorkshire, Middlesex and England seamer will become the full-time replacement for Ottis Gibson, who left his second spell in charge of the Test and one-day attack at the end of the summer in order to become the head coach of South Africa. The timing of Gibson’s departure before this winter’s Ashes defence saw England move to bring in Shane Bond, the former New Zealand quick, on a short-term consultancy role up until the end of the second Test in Adelaide that begins on 2 December. But now the process for the long-term vacancy that was advertised last month has been completed by the England and Wales Cricket Board, with Silverwood understood to have been offered the role this week

and which he duly accepted. It is a blow for Essex, who lose the head coach who oversaw promotion in 2016 during his first season in charge, followed by this summer’s title win. Anthony McGrath, his deputy at Chelmsford, is likely to take over in an interim role and is also favourite to get the job permanently. Silverwood is already due to work with England’s Lions during the Australia training camp next month, while the first two Ashes Tests are taking place, but will not take over from Bond when the New Zealander leaves mid-series to take up his role with Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League. The 42-year-old Silverwood, who claimed 577 first-class wickets during his playing career from 1993 to 2009 and won the last of his six Test caps at Perth during the 2002-03 Ashes tour, will instead begin his new assignment when the one-day series against Australia gets under way in January.

Silverwood was among a number of county coaches to work with England’s oneday set-up at the end of the recent international season, along with Glenn Chapple of Lancashire, Leicestershire’s Graeme Welch, Jon Lewis of Sussex and Nottinghamshire’s Andy Pick. The England head coach, Trevor Bayliss, has always maintained he sees the England position as tactical ahead of technical and Silverwood’s reputation rocketed last summer in that regard when Essex were crowned champions for the first time in 25 years. Certainly Jamie Porter thrived under his watch, with the 24-yearold’s 75 wickets central to the triumph. Jimmy Anderson, England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, said at the back end of the summer that he saw the next bowling coach being primarily in charge of bringing through the next generation of quicks behind himself and the similarly established Stuart Broad.(The Guardian)

Demerara Mutual National Schools Cricket League…

Wins for Cummings Lodge, Hindu College, Tucville and Christ Church Secondary THE 2017/2018 Guyana Cricket Board/ Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sports Commission/ National Secondary Schools Cricket League (GCB/DMLAS/ NSC/NSSCL) continued with matches being played in Georgetown and the East Coast of Demerara. At the Enterprise ground, President’s College opposed Cummings Lodge Secondary. President’s College batted first and were only able to muster 69 all out in 17.3 overs with Karen Samaroo top scoring on 23 Bowling for Cummings Lodge Secondary, Andrew Samaroo had magnificent figures of 7 for 8 off just 4.3 overs while Domaun Mohamed supported well with 2 for 26. In reply, Cummings Lodge reached 70 for 2 in 13 overs, Samaroo making an unbeaten 26 as Cummings Lodge won by 8 wickets. In the other match, played at the Enterprise ground, Beterverwagting (BV) Secondary lost to Hindu College by 4 wickets. BV batting first, only managed to make a paltry 71 all out off 11.5 of their allotted 30 overs. Bowling for Hindu College Dhauiram Sukhu took 3 for 16 and Sasnarine Harichand 2 for 8. In reply, Hindu College batted positively to race to 74 for 6 off just 12.2 overs. Bowling for BV, Chandau Rauthal grabbed 4 for 15. Hindu Col-

From left: Bowlers Aaron Beharry took 3-8, Ronaldo Mohamed 3-3, and reaz Drepaul 3-5

lege by four wickets. Over at the MYO ground in Woolford Avenue, Tucville won the toss and sent West Ruimveldt (formerly David Rose Secondary) to bat first. West Ruimveldt, posted 98 all out in 14.2 of their allotted 30 overs. Batting for West Ruimveldt, Aaron Glasgow made 22 and Joseph Semple 20. Bowling for Tucville Dwayne Jones took 4 for 16 and Leon Chesney 3 for 11. Tucville in reply, reached their victory target off just 14 of their allotted 30 overs, ended on 102 for 4, with Dwayne Jones top scoring with 34. Dar-

ren Daly supported well with 28. Tucville won by 6 wickets. Over at GYO ground in Woolford Avenue, Marian Academy batting first were bowled out for a paltry 35, off 25.4 of their allotted 30 overs. Bowling for Christ Church Secondary Aaron Beharry grabbed 3 for 8, Renaldo Mohamed 4 for 2 and Reaz Drepaul 2 for 4. In reply, Christ Church Secondary rocketed to 36 for 1 off just 3.5 overs. Ariel Tiku made 15 not out and Renaldo Mohamed 11 not out. Christ Church Secondary won by 9 wickets.

United close to knockout stage with 2-0 win over Benfica MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Manchester United almost made sure of a place in the knockout stage of the Champions League by beating Benfica 2-0 at Old Trafford on Tuesday to make it a perfect four wins in Group A. An own goal by Benfica’s 18-year-old keeper Mile Svilar on the stroke of halftime and a Daley Blind penalty in the 78th minute were enough for United who struggled at times to find their fluency. Svilar, the youngest

keeper in Champions League history, was unfortunate as a Nemanja Matic shot struck the post and bounced into the goal off his back. Earlier Svilar, whose error had gifted United a 1-0 win when the teams met two weeks ago in Lisbon, had saved a weak penalty from United’s French forward Anthony Martial to keep his team on level terms. United’s Dutch defender Blind made no such mistake with his spot kick after substitute Marcus Rashford was brought down by Andreas

Samaris. Benfica had several decent chances in the game but United’s Spanish keeper David De Gea was his usual reliable self and when he was beaten, Mexican forward Raul Jimenez’s shot struck the outside of the post. The result leaves United top of Group A on 12 points while CSKA Moscow and Basel each have six points with Benfica still without a point. CSKA won 2-1 at Basel in Tuesday’s other game in the group.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, Novemberr 1, 2017

Burnett pilots Georgetown to PNCR 60th Anniversary Basketball title over Linden A game-high 32 points from Travis Burnett helped Georgetown to an entertaining 87 – 81 points win over Linden at the Mackenzie Hard Court, to walk away with the People’s National Congress Reform 60th Anniversary celebrations, Day of Sports / Family Fun Day basketball title on Sunday. Burnett was supported by centre, Shane Webster, who poured in 18 points for the winners, while guard, Nikkoli Smith and Sherlon Legall, supported with 10 and six points respectively. For Linden, Harold Adams registered a team high 19 points, while the duo of Neil Marks and Joel Webster supported with 10 points apiece. The opening quarter underlined the closeness of

Travis Burnett

Shane Webster

the encounter as Georgetown led 17-16 and the one-point advantage was maintained as they went to the break with 31-30 ascendancy. However, it was in the third quarter that the host came into their own, seizing the initiative to

enter the fourth quarter with a 54-52 lead. Georgetown battled back in the crucial fourth quarter, outscoring the home side by a 35-27 margin to clinch the game and title along with the $150,000 first prize and the championship trophy.

Earlier, Georgetown confirmed their presence in the final, courtesy of a 11263 triumph over Berbice after Linden was given an automatic bye to the final. Meanwhile, Turning Point won the dominoes competition after beating a star-studded field, while there were a number of outstanding performances in the Track & Field segment. Lots of prizes were also distributed to the winners of the novelty events, including a guitar, bicycle, lap top computer among others, while the children received prizes for the quiz contest. Among those in attendance apart from Minister Ferguson were Attorney General (AG) Basil Williams and senior Party members Valerie Adams and Jennifer Ferreira.

Final two Turbo quarter- finalists to be decided tonight

The last two quarter -final spots in the Turbo KO football tournament is up for grabs tonight (Delano Williams Photo)

THE final two quarter- final spots in the Turbo knockout football tournament will be decided this evening when the last of the round of 16 action gets going. Set for an 18:30 start at the Ministry of Education ground, on Carifesta Ave, the first spot will either go to Linden’s Winners Connection or East Coast’s Mahaica Determinators. Both teams have strong pedigrees and it will be an interesting opening clash.

The second game of the evening pits Camptown FC against the Buxton Stars football team from 20:30. The teams already in the next round are Kuru Kuru, Pouderoyen, Silver Shattas, Grove Hi-Tech, Police and Pele FC. The teams are playing for a first place prize of $500,000 while the runnersup will receive $250,000, third place $125,000 and fourth place finishers will pocket $75,000.

Swag Entertainment wins PNCR 60th Anniversary Futsal title

...large turnout enjoys Diamond Jubilee celebrations LINDEN’s Swag Entertainment was crowned the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) 60th Anniversary Futsal Champion after squeezing past Bent Street by a 2-1 margin in the final last Sunday at the Mackenzie Sports Club

(MSC) Hard Court, Linden. Watched by a large gathering of supporters and well-wishers, the two finalists, despite a scorching first period went to the break with none managing to score, thereby setting up an anticipated and riveting conclusion and they

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)7 Tests (2)2 Today’s Quiz:

(1)Who are the players that contested the first but

not the second Test of the current WI/ZIM series? (2)Who are their replacements? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Chairperson of the Organising Committee for the PNCR 60th Anniversary Day of Sports, Minister Annette Ferguson (centre), hands over the winning trophy to Swag Entertainment captain, Shane Luckie, in the presence of teammates on Sunday

did just that. Swag Entertainment’s Shane Luckie broke the deadlock in the 12th minute when he unleashed a stunning left

foot volley from just outside the penalty area to grab the lead for the host. Four minutes later he was back in action with another

strike of quality, firing a fierce left-footer into the goal from the left side. Bent Street’s John Waldron made the clash interesting

when he netted in spectacular fashion in the 18th minute, but that was all in vain as the final whistle sounded two minutes later to hand Swag Entertainment a well-deserved victory. Swag Entertainment was presented with the winning trophy by Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Minister Annette Ferguson, who committed to hand over the $200,000 first prize at a later date. Bent Street received the runner-up prize of $100,000 and trophy, while Broad Street and Ol Skool collected $50,000 and $25,000 respectively for their third and fourth place finishes. Earlier in the semi-final action, Swag Entertainment beat Ol Skool Ballers 3-2 with Keon Sears firing in a brace, while Deon Charter added the other. Roy Cassou and Joel McGarrell netted for the losers. Bent Street defeated Broad Street 3-1. Travis Lyken, Sheldon Profit and John Waldron were the goalscorers, while Anthony Barrow netted the lone response for Broad Street.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Gayle could get millions in defamation payout FAIRFAX Media could be faced with a huge payout to Windies batsman Chris Gayle against whom they lost a defamation suit on Monday. A jury of three women and a man found to be untrue, a series of articles published by Fairfax in 2016 that claimed that the Jamaican batsman exposed himself to masseuse Leanne Russell in 2015. Fairfax Media’s lawyer Matthew Collins QC, who said he was “shocked and disappointed” at the decision, admits that if they lose on appeal, “It will cost the company a lot of money…” Gayle, who said after

the trial that he was more concerned about clearing his name than whatever amount is awarded, could be in for a nice windfall if a recent history of defamation cases is anything to go by. In New South Wales, where the case was heard, there is no limit on how much money the court can order in costs to the winner of a defamation complaint. According to reports, a Western Australia court, last year, awarded the largest ever Australian payout in a defamation case brought by three people against a blog-

ger, Terence McLernon, of AUD$700,000. Australia’s Uniform Defamation Act, last amended in 2005, does not differentiate between publishing by a media company or an individual and makes no mention of Internet, print or social media publication. Celebrity status can also play a significant role in how much money is paid out to someone whose character has been besmirched by media. In September 2017, Actress Rebel Wilson was awarded Australia’s highest-ever defamation payout, after suc-

Chris Gayle

cessfully suing Bauer Media over a series of defamatory

articles. According to a story published on news.com.au, “a Supreme Court judge claimed the extent of Wilson’s defamation was “unprecedented” and warranted substantial damages — to the tune of more than $4.5 million — after the jury found articles published in Woman’s Day, Australian Women’s Weekly, New Weekly and OK!, unfairly painted her as a serial liar who’d faked her way to Hollywood.” It’s a huge financial blow to Bauer, the online news site reported, especially considering lawyers for the Pitch Perfect

star claim that before the trial, she had offered to settle for $200,000. Defending a court action for defamation costs can vary from $100,000 to $1.1 million, which far exceeds the legislated maximum damages of $381,000, the figures show. Damages can also be substantial. Fairfax Media’s lawyer Richard Coleman said only about 10 to 15 per cent of defamation claims made against the media organisation, publisher of The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, ever made it to court.(Sportsmax)

Windies going for the jugular, warns Powell BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe, (CMC) – Opener Kieran Powell said Tuesday West Indies would continue to pile the pressure on Zimbabwe heading into the penultimate day of the final Test, as they pressed for a win and a clean sweep of the two-Test series. West Indies dominated the third day at Queens Sports Club, amassing 374 for seven in their first innings in reply to the hosts’ 326 all out on Monday. “We’re only 48 runs ahead but I think it’s good we put lots of miles on their legs. Hopefully we can come back tomorrow, with two set guys in as well, put some miles on their legs, try and stretch the lead as much as possible,”

said Powell, who top-scored with 90. “Any lead is a good lead on this pitch. Tomorrow we don’t know if the pitch will play up-and-down or whatever the case is so we need a big a lead as possible that will help us in trying to push for a result.” He added: “It’s definitely advantage Windies. We’ve got a 48-run lead so it’s definitely advantage for us. If we can stretch this to a 100, 150 runs lead that will be massive for us trying to push for victory.” Powell’s knock carried West Indies in the morning session after they resumed from their overnight 78 for one. When he fell just before

Opener Kieran Powell, who was dismissed for 90 on the third ads … says West Indies looking to ram home their advantage against Zimbabwe.

lunch, Shai Hope with 40 and Roston Chase, 32, com-

bined in a 56-run fifth wicket stand to lift the Windies to

219 for four in the second session. However, Sikandar Raza, who ended with five for 82, snatched three wickets for 11 runs as West Indies collapsed to 230 for seven but wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich (74 not out) and captain Jason Holder (71 not out) combined in an unbroken 144-run, eighth wicket stand to put the Windies in a dominant position. Powell praised the way both players had gone about pulling West Indies out of trouble and establishing an important lead. “Shane hasn’t been making runs recently but we know what he’s capable of and before he went out to bat I told him ‘just trust your

defence’. Once you trust your defence, scoring opportunities will come,” Powell told reporters. “Obviously he has to play to his own game plan and go about his innings however he sees fit but I thought that he really batted well today. Obviously with yesterday being his birthday and this being his birthday match, this was more incentive for him.” He continued: “Jason we know plays a counter-attacking role really well and I think that the way they both went about it with both being familiar with batting with each other – both being from Barbados – sort of helped the partnership.”

Windies going for the jugular, warns Powell See Page 31

Guyana beat rivals Suriname, French Guiana to capture Cup of the Guianas tennis

A jubilant Guyana team celebrate with their trophy and medals

HISTORY was made over the past weekend as a strong Guyana Junior tennis team was able to finally turn the tables on rivals Suriname and French Guiana in their annual meet. It was a decisive win for the Guyanese tennis team who played with passion and a high degree of discipline, as they overcame all odds and were finally able to win the InterCountry competition for the first time in over 10 years of competition. Now rebranded as the Cup of the Guianas (formerly Inter-Guiana Games), the tournament attracted top junior players from Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, who competed in the Under- 12, Under 14 and Under -18 categories. A total of 56 matches were played over three days that included singles and doubles matches, at the GBTI Recreational Centre and the Harry Panday court. It was an event which was thoroughly entertaining as it was competitive. Guyana was dominant this year as they copped an unprecedented five (5) gold medals and one (1) silver in the six categories, with Suriname coming in second (5 silver and 1 bronze) while French Guiana took third (1 gold and 5 bronze). In the final tally Guyana placed first with 29 matches, Suriname 16 matches and 9 matches to French Guiana. Outstanding performances at the tournament came from Jeremiah Kalekyezi and Vadeanand Resaul winning all 6 matches in the Under 14 category. Afruica Gentle and Kalyca Fraser also secured all wins in the Girls 18. Turm to Page 27

Dowrich and Holder rescue Windies after Raza heroics

Turn to Page 27 Shane Dowrich ended day three unbeaten on 75.

Skipper Jason Holder is 71 not out .

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Sikandar Raza was Zimabaweâ€™s best bowler with five for 82 WEDNESDAY,NOVEMBER, 1 , 2017