Guyana Chronicle E-paper 9-25-2019 by Guyana Chronicle

WEDNESDAY 25th September, 2019

IT’S ON! No.105771

… GECOM to open claims and objections from October 1

…President to address nation on elections today

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Border controversy hearing set for March 03 PAGE

… ICJ to determine jurisdiction after oral arguments

Norway releases US$50M in forest funds to Guyana 05 PAGE

BoG blocks Scotiabank takeover 08 PAGE

… Governor says move would have created ‘systemic issues’

President David Granger (right) shares a toast with the son of Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Jose Omar Hurtado Contreras (second right) and the Ambassador’s wife Ms. Waleska Sarai Salinas Martinez (left).

IT’S ON!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

… President to address nation on elections today … GECOM to open claims and objections from October 1 PRESIDENT David Granger will address the nation today on the holding of credible regional and general elections, the Department of Public Information said. The announcement came following a meeting with the President and his Cabinet on Tuesday. The President has repeatedly said he was anxious to name a date for elections but was awaiting advice from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). On Tuesday, in the aftermath of another statutory meeting at GECOM, government-nominated commissioner, Vincent Alexander, said the outcome of the meeting dealt with three decisions. The three decisions, he said started with the qualifying date for elections. This

was determined to be December, 31, 2019; secondly, claims and objections will commence from October 1, 2019 for a period of 35 days; and thirdly, it was agreed to write the US and Commonwealth for advisers for the elections. He said the encoding pro-

cess for the claims and objections was not dealt with and a report was not submitted. “What we understand is that process will conclude in a sufficient time for the information to be available for use in cross-matching,” he said. Alexander also said the commission is working to-

wards the timetable set by the GECOM chairman for the commission to be ready for elections by February 2020. Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, has accepted the February 2020 timeline of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for new elections and has called on

President David Granger and members of his cabinet during the meeting on Tuesday

his supporters to “get registered” during the upcoming claims and objections period. The GECOM Secretariat has been actively training polling-day staff countrywide. Thus far, training of polling day staff has been completed in several regions. In South Georgetown at 20 locations, 1,185 participants have been trained; on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) at 20 locations 1,201 were trained; on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) and in Region Five at 21 locations, 1,596 were trained; in Region Six at 25 locations 1,940 were trained and at 25 locations between Regions One, Two and 10, 2,030 were trained. The commission must now conduct training in the hinterland and in other parts of Georgetown with all training expected to be completed by October. ALL ARE INVOLVED Meanwhile, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) says it stands in tandem with the Commonwealth Secretary-General (CSG), Patricia Scotland, (who) in a press release issued by the commonwealth secretariat, “recognises CONSTITUTIONAL RULE IN GUYANA is not

the preserve of any singular entity or actor.” In said release, the CSG “urges the President of Guyana and all relevant stakeholders and institutions to restore constitutional rule in Guyana.” She said restoration hinges to, “immediately setting an early election date in consonance with its constitution, enabling elections to be held without further delay.” According to the GTUC, whereas the CSG recognises the responsibility of various actors in this process, the GTUC has concerns that in the absence of a clear understanding of the roles of those with responsibility and the impact of one on another, the important synergies derived from these can be overlooked or underestimated. Such underestimation will only serve to exacerbate the present state of confusion thus allowing for some taking advantage of others for partisan gain. The GTUC said every Guyanese or individual following Guyana’s current political situation is aware of the following, some of which have been made clear in the CSG report. It is this simple: The President of Guyana is not the only party responsible for See page 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Border controversy hearing set for March … ICJ to determine jurisdiction after oral arguments

THE International Court of Justice (ICJ), in March 2020, will begin hearing arguments on whether it has jurisdiction over the case filed Guyana – Arbitral Award of 1899 (Guyana v Venezuela). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in making the disclosure on Tuesday, said it welcomes the no-

tification by the ICJ. The oral hearings will be held in The Hague from March 23 to 27, 2020. “This hearing will determine whether the court has jurisdiction over the case filed by Guyana on March 29, 2018. By that case, Guyana seeks to obtain from the court a final and binding judgment that the 1899 Arbitral Award,

President to address nation ... From page 2

the restoration of constitutional rule in Guyana. This requires the input of “relevant stakeholders and institutions.” Those “relevant” we believe to be: a) the government and the political opposition; b) GECOM and the National Assembly. They must each play their respective roles and work together where and when necessary to achieve election within the appropriate timeframe. According to the GTUC, both the interim opposition and interim government must recognise the independent role of GECOM and allow it to do its work without acts of destabilisation that can result in delaying elections already legally and constitutionally delayed due to judicial challenges and appeals which both government and opposition sought to activate. Given the passage of the no-confidence vote, elections are required to restore normalcy in government. Elections must be held, “... in consonance with the constitution” and with the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruling. Times are noted in: Article 106 (7) which states “within three months...or such longer period...”, the ruling of the CCJ which on the upholding of Article 106(7). The issue of “constitutionally overdue elections” becomes relevant only after GECOM gives the ‘green light’ that it is ready and capable to conduct a credible election process and the President fails to call same. In this instance given (a) the successful no-confidence motion, (b) the constitutional delays resulting from exhaustive judicial recourse, (c) already by-passing the three months as noted in the court ruling and (d) after a 2/3 vote of the National Assembly allowing the government to function constitutionally so as to be able to call an election. “GTUC is reminded and we remind the Secretary General and all other concerned parties, local and international, that Guyana must resolve this crisis constitutionally, peacefully and in a manner that does not add to our chaotic state or further ethnic tensions. Our constitution provides a return to parliament and an extension of time and interim/caretaker/ Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, must be called upon as a ‘relevant stakeholder’ to return to the institution of the National Assembly and vote to restore ‘constitutional rule in Guyana’ via conduct of a constitutionally called election in keeping with Article 106(7). GTUC calls on the CSC and others to join us in ensuring ‘all relevant stakeholders’ are held to account. GECOM is doing its job, the others must do theirs,” the release stated.

which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid and binding, and that Guyana’s Essequibo Region belongs to Guyana, and not Venezuela,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry explained in a statement. Guyana filed its case before the ICJ after United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres, in January 2018, referred the controversy between Guyana and Venezuela to the world court. In taking his decision, the Secretary-General was exercising the power vested in him in the 1966 Geneva Agreement between Guyana, Venezuela and the United Kingdom to decide how the controversy should be settled, the Foreign Affairs Ministry explained. In a letter to the court, Venezuela contended that the Secretary-General exceeded his authority under the Geneva Agreement, and that the court therefore lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate Guyana’s lawsuit. On that basis, Venezuela has indicated that it will not participate in the proceedings. On November 19, 2018, Guyana submitted its memorial to the court refuting Venezuela’s arguments and demonstrating that the court has jurisdiction. “Under well-established judicial precedent, the court will proceed to decide if it has jurisdiction over Guyana’s claims, irrespective of whether or not Venezuela participates in the proceedings. If it decides that it has jurisdiction, the court will proceed to rule on the merits of those claims, and decide whether the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and the border between the two States should be confirmed,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said. It noted that under the

The International Court of Justice United Nations Charter and the court’s own rules, its final judgments both on jurisdiction and the merits, will be legally binding on Guyana and Venezuela, whether or not Venezuela participates in the proceedings. Nonetheless, Guyana remains hopeful that Venezuela will participate, to indicate respect for the court and the international rule of law, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the promotion of friendly relations between both States. “The Government of Guyana welcomes the prospect of a final and binding decision by the court that will definitively resolve this longstanding controversy, and allow Guyana and Venezuela to proceed to develop excellent and close relations as neighbouring states,” the ministry stated. Although it is contending that the ICJ lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate Guyana’s lawsuit, Venezuela failed to submit its Counter-Memorial on Jurisdiction – in response to Guyana’s Memorial on April 18, 2019 – a date which was fixed by the court. In its submission, Guyana pointed out that the boundary with Venezuela

was established by an arbitral tribunal constituted pursuant to a treaty concluded by Venezuela and Great Britain in 1897. It said the record would show that Venezuela accepted the unanimous award rendered by five eminent jurists on October 3, 1899. The Spanish-speaking country had also participated in a joint commission to demarcate the boundary on the ground, and insisted on the award’s strict implementation. “Only decades later did Venezuela, in anticipation of Guyana’s independence, cease recognising the award’s validity and binding nature, using that pretext to lay claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s territory,” the country noted. In an effort to ensure a final resolution to the controversy through peaceful means, the Government of British Guiana, Venezuela and the United Kingdom concluded that the Geneva Agreement on February 17, 1966. Article IV of that treaty authorises the Secretary-General of the United Nations to decide which of the means listed in Article 33 of the United Nations Charter shall be used to

resolve the controversy. Notably, it includes binding adjudication by the ICJ. In agreeing to Article IV, Venezuela consented to the court’s jurisdiction in the event the Secretary-General decides that the controversy should be resolved by the court, Guyana stated. “Efforts over more than half-a-century, including a four-year Mixed Commission (1966-1970), a 12-year moratorium (19701982), a seven-year process of consultations on a means of settlement (19831990), and a 27-year Good Offices Process under the UN Secretary-General’s authority (1990-2017), all failed to end the controversy. On January 30, 2018 United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, acting under the authority bestowed upon him by the Geneva Agreement, chose adjudication by the court as the means for resolving the controversy with finality,” the government outlined. Guyana’s representation before the court is led by its agent Foreign Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; and by its co-agents, Sir Shridath Ramphal and Ambassador Audrey Waddell.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Democrats launch formal Trump impeachment inquiry US Democrats have opened a formal impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump over claims that he sought political help from Ukraine. The decision by top Democrat Nancy Pelosi follows growing demands from her party. She said the president “must be held accountable”. Mr Trump has denied impropriety and argued that impeachment would be politically “positive” for him. No US president has ever been removed from office by impeachment. There is widespread support among Democrats in the lower house for impeachment

US President, Donald Trump - more than 145 out of 235 members are in favour. But if impeachment

moves forward it is unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled Senate and opinion polls show it is unpopular among US voters. Last week reports said US intelligence officials had complained to a government watchdog about Mr Trump’s interactions with a foreign leader, who was later revealed to be the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky. That whistleblower’s complaint, deemed “urgent” and credible by the intelligence inspector general, has been demanded by Democrats but the White House and Department of Justice have

refused to provide it. What exactly was said remains unclear but Democrats accuse Mr Trump of threatening to withhold military aid to force Ukraine to investigate corruption allegations against Mr Biden and his son Hunter. Mr Trump has acknowledged discussing Joe Biden with Mr Zelensky but said he was only trying to get Europe to step up assistance by threatening to withhold military aid. Ms Pelosi said Mr Trump had committed “a violation of the law”, and called his actions “a breach of his constitutional responsibilities”. “This week the president

has admitted to asking the president of Ukraine to take action that would benefit him politically,” she said, adding: “The president must be held accountable.” Mr Biden has also backed impeachment proceedings unless the US president complies with investigations. Impeaching Mr Trump “would be a tragedy”, Mr Biden said. “But a tragedy of his making.” The former vice-president is frontrunner to take on Mr Trump in the 2020 election. In a series of tweets Mr Trump said Democrats “purposely had to ruin and demean” his trip to the UN

“with more breaking news Witch Hunt garbage”. “They never even saw the transcript of the call. A total Witch Hunt!” he added. Earlier in the day, Mr Trump said “they’re going to lose the election and they figured this is a thing to.” “If she does that, they all say that’s a positive for me from the election,” he said. “You could also say, who needs it? It’s bad for the country.” He has promised to release a transcript of his conversation with Ukraine’s president to show it was “totally appropriate”. (BBC News)

Suspending UK Parliament unlawful, says historic court ruling BORIS Johnson’s decision to suspend Parliament for five weeks was unlawful, the Supreme Court has ruled. Judges said it was wrong to stop MPs carrying out duties in the run-up to the Brexit deadline on 31 October. The PM, who has faced calls to resign, said he

“profoundly disagreed” with the ruling but would “respect” it. The Labour conference finished early following the ruling and MPs are returning to Westminster ready for Parliament to reconvene on Wednesday. A senior government official said the prime minister spoke to the Queen

after the Supreme Court ruling, but would not reveal the details of the conversation. It comes after the court ruled it was impossible to conclude there had been any reason “let alone a good reason - to advise Her Majesty to prorogue Parliament for five weeks”. Mr Johnson, who returns to London from New York on Wednesday, also chaired a 30-minute phone call with his cabinet. A source told the

BBC that the Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg said to other cabinet ministers on the call that the action by the court had amounted to a “constitutional coup”. The prime minister insisted he wanted to outline his government’s policies in a Queen’s Speech on 14 October, and to do that, Parliament must be prorogued and a new session started. But critics said he was trying to stop MPs scrutinising his Brexit plans

and the suspension was far longer than necessary. During a speech in New York, the PM said he “refused to be deterred” from getting on with “an exciting and dynamic domestic agenda”, and to do that he would need a Queen’s Speech. The court ruling does not prevent him from proroguing again in order to hold one, as long as it does not stop Parliament carrying out its duties “without reasonable justification”. (BBC)

UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Norway releases US$50M in forest funds to Guyana …money represents final payment

NORWAY has agreed to pay over some US$50M of climate funds to Guyana, which authorities said represents the remainder of the pledge made by that country back in 2009. Minister of State, Mrs. Dawn Hastings-Williams and Norway’s Minister for Climate and Environment, Mr. Ola Elvestuen on Monday met on the margins of the UN Climate Summit in New York where the agreement was reached. In a release by the Ministry of the Presidency the two ministers welcomed successes and results achieved under the partnership between Guyana

and Norway. In accordance with the bilateral agreement between the two countries, the two ministers agreed that Guyana has met its commitments and therefore Norway would disburse all final payments totaling approximately US$50 million, equivalent to the remainder of the pledge made in 2009. The disbursement of the monies will be made to the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund, GRIF, administered by the World Bank. Minister Hastings-Williams acknowledged that at this juncture both countries indeed would have met their responsibilities with the final

release. She also highlighted important successes of the partnership and how it yielded enhanced forest governance; that Guyana is better placed through institutional strengthening to deliver the Green State Development Strategy. With the final payment, Minister Hastings-Williams has pledged to significantly increase the resources for the Opt-In project. Minister Elvestuen emphasised at the meeting that Norway is most impressed with the continued low deforestation rates in Guyana over many years, and also with the substan-

Both teams after fruitful discussions on the Guyana-Norway partnership. Fifth and sixth from right are Minister Hastings-Williams and Minister Elvestuen. From left Mr. Nikolaus Oudkerk, Coordinator of the Project Management Office (PMO); Ambassador Troy Torrington; Head Office of Climate Change Guyana, Ms. Janelle Christian; Dr. Marlon Bristol, Head of PMO; Ms. Vedis Vik, Senior Advisor Nicfi; Mr. Andreas Dahl-Jorgensen, Director of Nicfi; Ms. Ragnhild Eikenes, Nicfi’s Communication Adviser.

tive progress made on forest governance. The world

looks to Guyana for what sustainable development

in forest rich countries can be, Minister Elvestuen said.

Mexico celebrates 209th Independence anniversary

GUYANA has recorded its appreciation for Mexico’s support in providing scholarships, specifically in the fields of advanced agriculture, civil engineering and biology. This sentiment was shared by President David Granger during his address on Mexico’s 209th Independence anniversary at the Marriot Hotel on Tuesday night. “We look forward to continued cooperation with Mexico to strengthen our human resource capacity,” he said. The President said Guyana and Mexico have enjoyed cordial relations for over four decades, while extending congratulations to His Excellency Andrés Manuel López Obrador and to the Government and people of the United Mexican states. President Granger said ‘the Grito de Dolores’ of 16th of September 1810, which initially inspired ordinary

folk to revolt against the Spanish Empire, ignited the War of Mexican Independence. The ‘Grito’, he said has resounded for 209 years as an eternal encouragement to generations of Mexicans to preserve their hard-won Independence. “Guyana and Mexico have enjoyed cordial relations for over four decades. We remain committed, as states of the greater Caribbean, to work together to preserve the hemisphere as a zone of peace,” the President said. The President explained that Guyana and Mexico are committed also to mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs and mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. These are, he said, essential elements of respectful international relations and the foundation for the maintenance of regional

peace and security. The President noted that the fourth CARICOM-Mexico Summit held in Belize on October 25, 2017, attended by President Enrique Peña Nieto and Caribbean heads of state and government, served as a forum to strengthen the relations of the Caribbean Basin. “Mexico remains the single, largest export destination for Guyana’s rice. We are open to exploring export avenues for traditional and non- traditional products in order to strengthen initiatives aimed at increasing bilateral

trade,” the President said. He explained that Guyana looks to friendly regional states such as Mexico for cooperation as it establishes the regulatory framework to govern the emerging petroleum sector. The three Memoranda of Understanding concluded on March 15, 2017 with the Mexican Institute of Petroleum will assist in building much needed capacity in the sector. Further, the President said Guyana and Mexico have implemented technical cooperation programmes in the fields of disaster manage-

ment. The devastating effects of hurricanes and the wildfires necessitate continued collaboration in pursuit of the objective of the adaptation and mitigation of the adverse effects of climate change. The head of state also said that Guyana and Mexico have been recognised for their environmental policies. Mexico has been ranked as one of the world’s leading ecosystems. Guyana, the President said was recently listed among the hemisphere’s leading ecotourism destinations. “Guyana is committed

to the implementation of policies that promote sustainable growth and development.” The President explained that Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy aims at the preservation of its environment. “Much emphasis has been placed on the protection of the environment, the preservation of its biodiversity, the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation,” the President stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Our children are depending on us

GUYANA is currently observing Child Protection Week under the theme: “Promoting Social Change to Stop the violation of Children.” Child Protection Week was first observed in 2004 with the aim of sensitising the populace on how they could get involved in protecting children from abuse. In 2017, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) recorded the highest rate of child abuse and recent statistics show that from January to May, 2019, there have been 1,902 local cases of child abuse. According to a breakdown of the statistics from the Child Protection Agency, 1,015 of the cases were girls, while 887 were boys who have been abused. The highest number of cases was child neglect, which totalled 865, of which 402 were girls and 463 were boys. From January to March, there were 400 reported cases of child sexual abuse. Child protection as a matter of rights, laws, policies and programmes is an everyday event, starting in the home and extending to the wider society. Our children need protection from violence, exploitation and abuse. This protection is the collective responsibility of society, one that ought not

to be ever let up on and should see continuous work through institutional strengthening and deepening. A survey conducted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with Guyana three years ago, found that 18 percent of our children between the ages of five and 17 are engaged in child labour. This figure in a small society such as ours is relatively high and stamping it out requires concerted efforts on the part of government, in tandem with society. The denial of the child’s right to a normal childhood, whether it may occur out of ignorance, power play, or socio-economic circumstances, must not be condoned. In addition to continued and intensified public education on what constitutes child labour, socio-economic depravities have to be addressed, and the full brunt of the law must be brought to bear, including making the penalty sufficiently draconian to serve as deterrence. Government has done a lot of work in collaboration with organisations such as UNICEF to strengthen institutions. Ours is a society born out of historical experience, that to spare the rod is to spoil the child. Consequently, children have been whipped

if they engaged in what the parent or responsible adult considers bad behaviour. This in many instances is born out of wanting the best for the child. This form of discipline is also incorporated into the school system, and is known as corporal punishment. Today, such is considered violent and abusive. As national conversations on this issue flare up ever so often, including from teachers as to whether this form of discipline is appropriate or not, the fact is once it remains on the statute books it is legal. It may be opportune therefore for teachers, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Social Protection and other stakeholders to examine corporal punishment in our laws. Discipline is important to a child’s growth and development as it is to every individual. However, it becomes necessary to revisit appropriate forms of discipline that will not constitute abuse. Our children are getting education from different sources and in unrestricted environments which can be unhealthy. With technological advancement, Guyana has to develop its code of standards that will protect the type of information to which children are exposed and explore ways of aiding the family in ensuring so. In addition

to the type of movies children watch, it may be helpful to seek to work with television stations in determining the type of shows aired at certain hours. There is the issue of cyber-bullying which is becoming ever prevalent. The internet is also a haven for paedophiles; the unrestricted flow of pornography; recruiting for terrorist acts and other forms of exploitation, violence and abuse. Ways have to be found to insulate our children from such a toxic environment, even as they are taught that their bodies are private, what constitutes safe spaces, how to deal with those who seek to violate them, and appropriate sex education. In the field of education, children learn what is to come into contact with their senses. Adults have to be mindful of the things they say and do because children often take their cues. Leaders in society must not only speak to the issue of abuse in forms of intolerance, but must also be seen demonstrating that level of intolerance. While children may not be of the intellectual growth as adults, they are very discerning and perceptive. Stopping the violation of children requires collective approaches and action. Our children are depending on us.

US, Britain in political, constitutional crises Dear Editor I refer to the statement from the senior sections of the international diplomatic community in Guyana: the UK, USA, and the EU, accusing the President David Granger–led government of being in ‘breach of the constitution’, because of not holding elections in keeping with the ‘orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice’. There was also a recent one from the Commonwealth, which stated that Guyana must ‘restore constitutional rule’. Irrespective of the international rating, status, power or not, of the states represented, and the Commonwealth, these statements have all crossed the bounds of time honoured diplomatic conventions, and are therefore open to criticisms. Editor, that these statements are shorn of any reasoning is an understatement – they are most hypocritical and filled with double standards from representatives whose respective states, and continent are

themselves reflecting a plethora of human rights abuses and constitutional breaches even as I pen this letter. The irony of such national crises, is that they have always been perceived as traditional of third world states, which have attracted so many criticisms, reprimands and even sanctions from these countries which, for so many decades have played judge, handing down sentences on these states. First of all, the United States: How does this envoy explain her country’s chief executive, who has ridden roughshod over every facet of his country’s traditional executive traditions, by actions, one of which, has just resulted in impeachment proceedings being announced - demanding that his Ukrainian counterpart investigate the son of his main 2020 presidential rival, Democrat Joe Biden’s son, reportedly threatening to withhold economic aid, if his request was not granted. These and other acts, constantly committed by this country’s president, has America in an utter rudderless position.

Secondly, and certainly complementary of her greatest ally, the United States is the extant political crises surrounding BREXIT in Great Britain, where Britain’s Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Tuesday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s five-week suspension of Parliament was “unlawful, void and of no effect”, with the aim of denying MPs the right of debating his plan to leave the EU by October 31, without a deal. Britain is in utter social and political chaos, as thousands of English citizens protest in the streets of London; impacting on its economy as a result of serious divisions over the BREXIT question, which has already resulted in the forced resignation of the previous Prime Minister. And as to the third representative the EU whose representation of the Integration movement for an entire continent, is about the latter which has seen the rise of far right political parties and governments, which continue to pose a clear and present threat to the continent’s democratic tradi-

tions wherever these exist; seen the spectre of racism and intolerance at an all- time high, especially with regard migrants from former colonies. Ironically, the diplomatic statements are absolutely reflective of the internal status quo of very dangerous crises in each of the states which are now chiding Guyana. Surely, Guyana is a sovereign nation, the President is Head of State and Government. It is unacceptable that diplomatic envoys from these countries would insult us, moreso based on falsehoods. It disregards the fact the court never made such a ruling, and we are nine months to the date of the no-confidence vote, requiring Parliament’s input. We can and should be allowed resolve our constitutional or other fundamental governing law without veiled threats from the ABE countries which plays to the narrative of one side. Regards Ryan Maraj

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Guyanese must vote on issues not race

Dear Editor,

THE political arena is no play park, this I have come to know with the passage of time and I have gained my own experiences that confirm this view. People I had great respect for, confidence in and looked up to, turned out to be well dressed wolves in sheep’s clothing. Some have besmirched my character with their stranger-to-the-truth lethal tongue and even colluded with law enforcement to bring me before the courts, but justice prevailed and my belief in the power of Almighty GOD is now more supreme. Despite my life-changing experiences, the knowledge and views I now hold, most were largely influenced by the many who mentored, guided and provided me with many perspectives. I have been blessed with the opportunity to tap into the minds of some of the wisest, educated and experienced Guyanese directly and indirectly. Some are the likes of Aubrey Norton, Joseph Harmon, Dr. Kirton, Eric Phillips, David Granger, Eslene Shockley, Winston Jordan, Gordon Moseley, Larry London, Ms Sampson, Mr Vic Persuad, Ms Amna Ally, Colvin Heath-London, Christopher Matthias, Mr Bynoe, Raphael Messiah, Selwyn Sills and countless others too numerous to mention. In the final analysis it comes down to the saying we all agree with, “knowledge is power.” It influences a change in behaviour, it helps us to make informed and correct decisions about very important things. One such thing I believe, should be about the elections and voting. It is therefore important that the population is knowledgeable and becomes more aware of facts and truths that are at times blurred by media sensationalism in an effort to sell its product to make profits/money. Voting is your democratic right and you should exercise that right when that time comes, and make the right decisions. I, like most Guyanese, believe that voting for the APNU+AFC government means having a prosperous future and an equal opportunity to be empowered and to have increased access to government services. On the contrary, casting a vote for Jadgeo’s PPP means massive corruption, untrustworthy and discriminatory conduct, drugs, migration, extra-judicial killings, economic marginalization and threats to freedom of the press as we experienced during their reign in office. Poverty, distress, premature death for opposing political views and the further enrichment of the few in Jagdeo’s elite circle/class, more so now because of oil money. Before you dismiss what I say as an elections gimmick or propaganda, let me provide you with undisputed, accurate and factual information and I dear you to fact check. Let’s examine how land was distributed under the PPP by Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan

Ali, I mean Mohammed Irfaan Ali. Within the Ministry of Communities (formerly known as the Ministry of Housing and Water) is the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). CH&PA was established in 1948, via the Housing Act, Chapter 36:20, “to address the housing needs of the citizens of Guyana by divestment of government land to eligible Guyanese for residential use.” The PPP blatantly violated the tenets of the Housing Act, commercialised the CH&PA and began to distribute the best lands to Jadgeo’s friends and cronies of the PPP cabal, who bought huge plots of lands at giveaway prices, then resold these lands to Guyanese and earned as much as 1600% to 6000% profits. Hundreds of acres of land on the East Bank of Demerara in areas such as Eccles, Little Diamond, Republic Park, Providence, Herstelling and Grove were sold by the former PPP/C administration to more than 20 of Jagdeo’s acolytes and some Chinese companies. The former PPP administration put 25,000 housing applicants on pause, on hold and then proceeded to parcel off lands to whomever they wished. Many of these lands were sold for between $500,000 per acre to up to $9Million per acre with no credible valuation. Prices were allegedly determined by affiliation to the PPP. In 2011, PPP/C Parliamentarian Odinga Lumumba allegedly received 150 acres of land at Providence, East Bank Demerara (6,450,000 Square feet). This is the equivalent of 1,433 (50 feet*90 feet) house lots. The CH&PA claimed that they were unaware when these lands, which are worth billions of dollars, were given away. Jagdeo and his Cabinet gave these lands to Lumumba in exchange for 6,700 acres of lands that Lumumba leased in Canje, Berbice, after the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission was about to repossess the land from Lumumba, due to issues regarding non-payment of leasing fees. When Lumumba surrendered the 6,700 acres in Berbice he was not required to pay for 150 acres of land on the East Bank – ironic-- considering the fact that he had defaulted on payments for the Berbice land. Lumumba was also given land measuring 0.786 of an acre (30,100 square feet- 200*150feet) in dimension. This land is situated behind the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown. The PPP Cabinet gave these lands to Lumumba in 2004. He paid $1.5 million for the land and re-sold the land for $38 Million in 2009. Jagdeo again bypassed the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission and gave his friend, Edul Ahmad, who is currently serving jail time in the USA for a US$50M real estate fraud, a portion of land which belonged to the Guyana Public Service Union. This land is situated at the corner of Thomas Road and Irving Street. Edul Ahmad was allowed to lease the 3.1 acres (133,000 square feet) of land for G$500,000.00 per year. The highway robbery and skullduggery

by the PPP didn’t stop there. Jagdeo’s bedfellow, Edul Ahmad also received 17 acres (731,000 square feet) of prime land at West Coast Demerara. Ahmad bought these lands for about $4.7Million per acre. In other words, Ed Ahmad paid GYD$109.00 per square foot. The covetous, red-eyed Jagdeo continued on his trajectory of land-grabbing and disenfranchising of the 25,000 housing applicants who were awaiting house lots, by taking possession of land that was owned by the then Guyana Broadcasting Corporation and parcelling it off: to himself, Dr Roger Luncheon, Floreen Ramnaught, Priya Manickchand, Clement Rohee, Rear Admiral (ret’d) Gary Best, Lisaveta Ramotar, daughter of former President Donald Ramotar, Ramesh Dookhoo, Dr Nanda Gopaul, Dr Ghansham Singh, Rajendra Singh, Dr Compton Bourne, Safraaz Khan, Sheik Baksh, George Halla, Dave Narine and a company called Future Developers of Guyana Inc – 19 properties in all. The PPP administration spent GY$578.4 Million to develop the land and parcelled off same in 28 plots. Most of those lots are 18,853 square feet and were sold for an average of $1.5 million each; even though these lots were each worth about 10 times more, based on their market value and the amount of money spent to develop the area. Jagdeo took two acres (86000 square feet) and paid only 14 million (basically paying about G$162 per square foot). In addition, over 500 acres on the East Bank of Demerara were allegedly given to friends of Jagdeo to build housing schemes for their own enrichment. India’s coffee maker mogul V. G. Siddhartha was also given 1.8M hectares of Guyana’s forest. V. G. Siddhartha acquired a 30-year lease from the PPP. Ajeenkya DY Patil Company from India also received 60,000 hectares of land in Berbice for farming, plus he was given tax concessions. Even a famous Guyanese cricketer was given prime land at Providence for his mall, while 25,000 people were awaiting house lots. Eddie Boyer, the former President of the Private Sector Commission, was given a glorious sweet deal by Jagdeo. Eddie Boyer, owner of National Hardware, was sold 103.88 acres of land for G$510Million (which amounts to $115.00 per square foot). These lands are now being sold for about $7 million a plot (when they were purchased for about $500,000.00 a plot).This plot of land can hold about 984 house lots. If one were to do the math, one would see how Jagdeo made his friends super-rich and totally excluded you and I, the ordinary Guyanese, he now again wants to fool for their votes. Mr. Editor, even Scady Business Corporation from Tortola, British Virgin Islands, received prime lands at giveaway prices. In a disturbing comparison, the citizens who actually acquired house lots under the PPP were given swampy, snake-infested former

canefield lands with “no” “none” infrastructural development such as proper roads, electricity and water. But they were sold 4,500 square feet plots for about $2million in many cases, while 18,853 square feet plots were sold to Jagdeo and Ali’s friends for $1,515,000.00. Guyana re-migrants suffered as well; they paid 10 times the price that former President Bharrat Jagdeo paid for his house lots. Remigrants each paid between $4 to 5.5M (at $1,111 per square foot as compared to Jagdeo’s $114 per square foot). Mr Editor, if you concluded that was bad, know that the insanity continued as Jagdeo and the PPP gave away to Bai Shan Lin, several combined Caribbean territories land mass of 960,000 hectares of Guyana’s pristine forest; additionally, 20 kilometres of riverine gold-mining concessions; a five-kilometre square construction area for a Guyana-China Timber Industry Economic and Trading Cooperation Park, and 400 acres of land for real estate development. Wow! I know that you, like most ordinary Guyanese who will determine the outcome of the elections, didn’t know this. Mr Editor, It is evident that Jagdeo and his cabal felt that he possessed the transport for Guyana, for he has stated that he considered “giving a part of Guyana” to Venezuela in order to solve the border controversy. Could you believe this man? As real Guyanese patriots would say, “Not a blade of grass” Jagdeo! The 23 years of PPP governance resulted in a massive giveaway of Guyana’s lands, many of which were ancestral lands, to Jagdeo & Ali’s friends, families and close acolytes. Jagdeo never empowered the poor; the cane-cutters remained cane-cutters; Jagdeo showed no care for 25,000 housing applicants, but sought to enrich only those who were a part of his clique, his elite circle. Jagdeo’s friends purchased prime lands at cheap prices, made gated communities and sold these properties for mega-millions. Jagdeo created a corrupt elitist group who are now filthy rich, while the CH&PA is still grappling with a housing applications backlog that has existed since the 1990s. We as a people owe the future of Guyana to know the truth, to know the facts so informed decisions at the polls will be made. A vote on issues and the future of Guyana must trump a vote of race. Mr Editor, I put it to your readers that Guyana is going to be a new Guyana and the David Granger-led coalition government is better equipped to continue serving this nation for the benefit of all Guyanese. We must never allow ourselves to forget that most evil, wicked and corrupt PPP administration. Regards Jermaine Figueira Member of Parliament

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Guyana shouldn’t look to Ghana for local content guidance Dear Editor, THE most recent version of Guyana’s local content policy has sparked much commentary this week, some helpful and some less so. As Guyanese cast about for other examples from which to draw lessons, I was surprised to see sections of the media lauding the “highly successful” plan Ghana has in place. It is my understanding that opinion is actually quite divided on the effectiveness of Ghanaian policy. First, allow me to state the obvious: local content policy is constructed on the basis of local circumstances. Ghana and Guyana cannot be compared as a 1:1. Local content policies share the same general goals of creating opportunities for local businesses, promoting technology and knowledge transfer and increasing tax bases for governments. How those policies pursue those goals can vary greatly. For example, Ghana’s local content policy framework, as it stood in 2010, called for maximum local participation across all parts of the supply chain. There is a widespread belief that the targets set are unrealistic, given the state of local businesses. An article by one of Africa’s top analysts, Stephen Yeboah, points out that it can lead to unfair or corrupt contract-award processes. He proposes that policies should instead favour only local businesses with proper qualifications and technological expertise. Despite concerns, Ghana’s local content policy was revised in 2013 to be even more strict, requiring 90 percent of goods and services in the oil industry to be sourced locally by 2020. Experts have criticised this target

as even more unrealistic, likely leading to reduced quality of services. International investors and companies, forced to rely on less than effective local businesses, often delay projects as a result. Naki Mendoza, of the Council of the Americas, discusses this issue. He believes that the target cannot be achieved due to, “capacity bottlenecks to allegations of corruption and graft. The setbacks stem from a mismatch between an industry’s demands and the constraints of a local market and can serve as a cautionary tale for countries that are in the early phases of managing natural resources.” In short, blanket applications of high local content requirements has handicapped Ghana’s local content policy and potentially slowed the evolution of local businesses as a result. And lest there be any confusion about the effectiveness of Ghana’s policy, I note for readers that the government is currently re-examining its local content policy and considering changes to address the issues mentioned above. There is no simple solution for Guyana’s local content policy. While I am sure that Anthony Paul feels his policy for Ghana has been “highly successful,” we must be wary of taking the easy route and simply applying a template to Guyana. Our government has consulted a number of experts thus far, and it seems foolhardy to think that only one will have the right answer. Let us be patient, seek further inputs, and craft a policy that works for Guyana in the years and decades to come.

BoG blocks Scotiabank takeover …Governor says move would have created ‘systemic issues’ By Alva Solomon THE Central Bank has denied Republic Bank Financial Holdings (RBFH) plans to take over the operations of Scotiabank in Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga has confirmed. Dr Ganga, the Central Bank Governor, told the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday night that both of the banks were informed of the decision. He said that the denial of the application for takeover by RBFH branded as Republic Bank was due largely to the high level of concentration of the banking system, noting that

business. Scotiabank said it planned to sell its banking operations in Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Maarten, St Vincent & the Grenadines to Republic Financial Holdings. In a statement subsequent to the announcement, Guyana’s Ministry of Finance frowned on the move. It said Republic Bank currently held 35.4 per cent of the banking systems assets and 36.8 per cent of deposits in Guyana and the acquisition of Scotiabank would up this to 51 per cent of both assets and deposits.

“it would lead to systemic issues” which would have affected the health of the financial system here. Dr Ganga explained that the move would have led to lower cost efficiency, adding that it would have stymied competition in the sector here. He said Republic Bank would have had over 50% assets and deposits in the local sector adding that it would have raised “major concerns” such as impact on competition. Both banks have done very well in Guyana, Dr Ganga said. He said the Republic Bank has played “a very good role in Guyana and this is why they would have wanted to advance their footprint.” However, he reiterated that the planned move would have had an adverse impact on the banking system. He said Scotiabank is free to sell their operations and with the evolving oil and gas industry here, it can take advantage of the opportunities which lay ahead. In November 2018, Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS.TO) trading as Scotiabank, reported that fourth-quarter earnings were marginally below expectations and said it planned to exit nine countries in the Caribbean as part of a shake-up of that

“This too will have an impact on competition and the potential for Republic Bank to have too much influence on pricing of banking products and rates. The sale will also have an impact on issues related to correspondent banking options and the loss of jobs with Republic Bank likely to consolidate branches,” the Finance Ministry said. Earlier this month, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), in consultation with the ECCB Monetary Council, approved the application for the transfer of the assets and liabilities of the Bank of Nova Scotia to the Republic Financial Holding Limited in several regional territories. According to a release, the Trinidad and Tobago-based bank received the green light to take control of the operations of Scotiabank in Anguilla, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines, pursuant to Section 43 of the Banking Act. Discussions on the future of Scotiabank’s operations in Antigua and Barbuda are ongoing, the release said.

Regards Clement Smith

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Georgetown Seawall in line for a facelift –– as part of elaborate plan to upgrade the city’s sea defences

By Wendella Davidson

THE rehabilitation and upgrade of the Georgetown Seawall and repairs to the infrastructure of the Georgetown and Vreed-en-Hoop Stellings are included in a 55M pounds sterling project being funded under a United Kingdom grant. On Sunday, visitors to the Georgetown Seawall, in the vicinity of the Bandstand, had the opportunity of viewing a draft of the infrastructure development plan for the coastal frontage, ask questions, and of-

ment of the coastal defence are establishing a terminal rock groyne between Fort Groyne and the Bandstand; increasing and maintaining the width of the beach; establishing a rock revetment with beach access step along a significant length of the frontage for protection against coastal erosion; upgrading a wide section of the promenade at the top and behind the seawall, thereby making it ideal for recreational activities; along with landscaping the land-side of the seawall to allow for designated vending areas.

Peter Phipps, Project Team Leader and Caribbean Regional Representative of Mott MacDonald House The ‘Zone B’ plan

The proposed ‘Zone A’ of the coastal frontage in the Coastal Infrastructure Development fer their own ideas of how it should be done. The importance of upgrading the coastal defence has been identified by the Government of Guyana, and provides possible solutions to enhance the communities therein and upgrade the coastal defence. The coastal frontage extends from Fort Groyne in Kingston, all the way to the Ogle Outfall on the lower East Coast, and according to the proposed works, it has been divided into three zones, with ‘Zone A’ being from Fort Groyne to Kitty; ‘Zone B’ from the Kitty Pump to Liliendaal; and ‘Zone C’ from Liliendaal to Ogle. Among the several solutions that have been proposed for the enhance-

Peter Phipps, Caribbean Regional Representative of the UK-based Mott MacDonald House, a multi-disciplinary consultancy organisation and team leader for the local project, told the Guyana Chronicle that the funding has been provided for Guyana to invest in infrastructural projects. According to him, the rehabilitation and reconfiguration of the city’s sea defences is necessary to meet the challenges associated with climate change and sea level rise in order to help to manage the risk to Georgetown. The project also seeks to enhance the environmental and social setting by providing better facilities to the people of Georgetown, and other visitors from the

different communities and internationally. He noted that prior to Sunday’s first engagement with the public to garner their views, discussions have been held with key officials at the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI), the implementing agency here; the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD); and the Mayor City Council (M&CC). STELLING VISITS Last week, visits were also conducted at the Georgetown and Vreeden-Hoop Stellings and the Stabroek Market Wharf for a first-hand view of the condition of the infrastructure there. Commenting on the condition of the infrastructure,

Phipps said they are in a deplorable condition, and will be demolished, including the Stabroek Market Wharf. Alluding to the rehabilitation works, Phipps said the aim is to improve the access of commuters to the water taxis, and that the idea is to allow commuters to gain access to at least six crafts simultaneously, by way of a floating pontoon, as it has been observed that an increasing number of people now use the facility on a daily basis. The project is presently in the design development feasibility stage, and this aspect should be concluded by March or April next year to allow for the start of the procurement process to enable a contractor to come

on board. There will, however, be a formal public consultation process around the planning stage and before the final designs are completed. Asked about the public’s perception of the proposed works, Phipps said he is enthused that people understand that some sort of work needs to be done. They have been very open about providing their own ideas about different things, including how the place should look on completion, and what security should look like. He said that having the public complete questionaires are all part of the public consultation plan. BUILDING SMARTER With the current per-

formance of the structures and the problem of rising sea level and lots of flooding in many different parts around the world, the idea is not just building higher, but building smarter. Phipps disclosed that his company is also involved with the MoPI in the upgrade of the Linden to Lethem Highway, through the Mabura Hills section, and with the bridge crossing at Kurupukari. He said that it is another of the projects that comes under the Caribbean Infrastructure Fund/UK government grant. The monies, he said, is being channeled through the Caribbean Development Bank, so it is focusing on infrastructure.

A member of the public pays keen interest as an official explains the draft development plans for the coastal frontage (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

PPP in panic mode –– Hamilton Green says as the electorate rejects its ‘propaganda’

WITH the electorate openly rejecting its “propaganda,” the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), now in a state of panic, has resorted to hooliganism, former Prime Minister, Hamilton Green said on Tuesday. In an interview with Guyana Chronicle, Green, who also served as the Mayor of Georgetown, said

the PPP/C has embraced the Stalinist policies and ideas of governance and disturbance as he alluded to the “disruptive protest actions” being led by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali. “I think they are disciples of Adolf Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda, Joseph Goebbels, whose idea was,

if you repeat a lie often enough, it would soon be accepted by the populace,” the former Prime Minister said. Geobbels was a German Nazi politician and Reich Minister of Propaganda of Nazi Germany from 1933 to 1945. He was one of Adolf Hitler’s closest and most devoted associates. Like Geobbels, the PPP/C

is employing all forms of media to peddle misinformation, Green said. “So if you look at the newspapers, and the radio and the television, wherever they are, that is their philosophy – repeating that the government is illegal, it is not; repeating that the president is out of order. The president has done all things within his power to ensure that there is some balance and sanity brought to the affairs of the country,” he said. Since the December, 2018 No-Confidence Motion, Green said, the Government and the Opposition have utilized the maximum legal procedures. The No-Confidence Motion was upheld by the High Court on January 31, 2019 but on March 22, 2019, the Court of Appeal by a 2-1 majority invalidated the motion on the basis that an absolute majority was not acquired although the Opposition has secured an extra vote to defeat the Government. It was not until June 18, 2019 that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) – Guyana’s final appellate court – validated the No-Confidence Motion. In handing down its consequential order on July 12, 2019, the CCJ stated clearly that the Government, as a result of the passage of the No-Confidence, will remain in office as an “interim government,” until a new President is sworn-in. The former Prime Minister said notwithstanding this fact, the Opposition is demanding that the President Granger and his Government step down, and in keeping with its Stalinist policies, is attempting to create conditions of uncertainty through these disruptive protest actions. “I think they are wrong because they are not dealing with a 1960’s generation. I have been through

the 1960s with the horrors of the PPP. I was General Secretary from 1962 and had to face the onslaught of bombs, the machine guns imported in bags but today you have a new communication opportunity, so people are reading what is happening in Guyana from the Far East, in England, in the United States, and not easily fooled by the machinations and gyrations of these people,” Green reasoned. According to him, at the forefront of PPP/C’s mission are people who have no credibility. “One man is a Bishop; Bishops don’t behave that way, they go and preach and try to win souls for the Lord; I have talked about McCoy and I asked him to sue me, because I employed McCoy as my personal assistance once, and he stole letter-heads from the secretary’s office, forged my signature, and attempted to secure funds, so he has no moral authority to speak on anything. Irfaan Ali, I don’t even think the PPP supporters take him seriously. So in the frontline they are using people who have no credibility,” Green told this newspaper. With elections months away, Green said the PPP/C is now “panicking.” He said President Granger is unmoved by the party’s constant threats, and will proclaim a date for General and Regional Election at a fitting time in keeping with the advice of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “No Opposition, no set of diplomats can force him to make a decision before he is ready,” he said while adding that “no credible leader rushes into an election.” “The PPP didn’t do it; they fixed dates to suit themselves. So what we see here is a manifesto of

Former Prime Minister, Hamilton Green a group that is panicking, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this coincided with the return of Roger Khan,” he further added. Green is of the opinion that the PPP/C maybe attempting to distract the populace from the fact that under its administration, convicted drug lord Roger Khan and his Phantom Squad were given ‘license’ to kill. “We all know that Roger Khan was hand mitten by the Jagdeo regime. He took 400 lives…I wouldn’t be surprise if this new wave of fancy-foot works is somehow related to Roger Khan’s return as a diversionary measure from being reminded that Roger Khan was a product of the PPP,” he said. He reminded that Khan, before being captured in Suriname, had placed a full page ad in the local newspapers confessing that he was acting on behalf of the then PPP/C government. The nation, he said, must never forget. The former Prime Minister is therefore urging Guyanese to throw their support behind President Granger and his coalition government. “I would advise the people to stick with the coalition first of all, there is no alternative. Secondly, citizens must press the two major political actors to sit down and talk,” he said. President Granger, having met with his Cabinet, is slated to address the nation on the political situation in the country tonight. It is likely that he will proclaim a date for elections then.

PPP members blocked the path of the vehicle of Dr Karen Cummings, Minister of Foreign Affairs. They reportedly threatened to overturn her vehicle

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

CPA ropes in Reg.10 headteachers –– to help take the fight to child abuse

By Vanessa Braithwaite HEADTEACHERS of schools across Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are now better informed on the very critical role they and supervised staff play in ensuring that every case of child abuse that is brought to their attention is immediately reported to the Region’s Child Protection Agency (CPA). Failure to do so, they’ve learnt, can have dire consequences not only for themselves, but more importantly for the abused child, as many times they are the first responders in cases of abuse, and therefore serve as a critical link in the channel of bringing justice to the child. This was encapsulated at a symposium held in Linden on Tuesday in observance of Child Protection Week 2019. Participating were scores of Headteachers from nursery to secondary schools, who joined other relevant stakeholders to form a conversation on the social phenomenon affecting the region, and how best it can be stamped out at the earliest possible time. Senior Child Protection Officer Huette Moore, in her opening remarks, emphasised that it is the CPA’s mission to prevent child abuse by providing the needed services and resources to ensure all players are involved. “If we could have zero reported cases of abuse, this

would be excellent,” Moore said, adding: “But since we are living in a world where things have changed greatly, we have to work towards reducing that amount. We are hoping that our headteachers can assist us with that, because you are the first responders; you get to see them more than we do.”

named Blossom Inc. has been playing an integral role in this chain of command since its establishment of a ‘One-Stop-Centre in 2018 at the Linden Hospital Complex, where the entire investigation process is done at one time, so the victim would not be re-traumatised.

INFORMATIVE DISCUSSION The observation opened the door for a very informative discussion among participants, who included Linden’s Town Clerk Orleena Obermuller; Linden Hospital Complex Social Worker Laurette Smith, and Regional Chairman Renis Morian. Cameal Jeffery, Senior CPA Officer attached to Kwakwani, informed participants of the role and protocol of the CPA, in that it is the mandated organisation to commence the process of investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse, by first taking an official report of the allegation from the victim and those around him or her. And even after the matter would have ended up in court, follow up counselling sessions are done with the victim. This course of action highlighted the channel the investigation takes, and if the headteacher holds back from making a report, it would affect the entire channel. In Linden, an NGO

BLOSSOM INC’S ROLE Blossom Inc. Social Worker Melissa Chapman highlighted the role the Centre is playing by ensuring an integrated approach is taken by putting the child in one place, where the representatives from the many units such as law enforcement, child protection, police, social workers and doctors will be. She explained that the representatives of the different organisations work together to make decisions about investigation, treatment, management and prosecution of child abuse cases. Giving an overview on the role the police plays in investigating sexual offices, Corporal Keaisha Erskine of ‘E’ Division’s Sexual Offences Unit said that the Guyana Police Force upholds zero tolerance for sexual offences. Every matter that is reported is thoroughly investigated, she assured stakeholders, in that a detailed file is sent to the Director of Public Prosecution seeking advice on charges.

SYSTEMIC LOOPHOLES Toshao Flagran Carter, of Rockstone, highlighted some of the loopholes in the system with dealing with child sexual abuse in the outlying areas. In addressing the concerns, Corporal Erskine related that the Division has taken a proactive approach in dealing with matters of incest, statutory rape, rape and various forms of molestation occurring in the hinterland district, and has been venturing into the communities to engage the officials and residents there on how consequential it is to cover up cases of abuse. Regional Chairman Renis Morian pledged to support the fight against child abuse in Region Ten by offering

Presenters at the Symposium financial and other forms Child Protection Week of assistance to the regional was first observed in 2004 CPA office, as well as to con- with the aim of sensitising tinue championing the call for the populace on how they all stakeholders, including can get involved in protecting the church, to get involved in children from being abused. rooting out this social ill. In 2017, Region Ten record“Don’t just look at to- ed the highest rate of child day as an academic gath- abuse, with the most recent ering, but look deep within statistics showing that from your hearts to say what January to May 2019, there else can we do,” he said, have been 1,902 local cases adding: “The message is of child abuse. pertinent,” as he urged According to a breakstakeholders to seek out down of the statistics from different approaches to the CPA, 1,015 of the cases get the attention of a wider were girls, while 887 were audience such as drama and boys who have been abused. television programmes. The highest number of cases was child neglect, WEEK IN RETROSPECT which totalled 865, of which Child Protection Week 402 were girls and 463 were 2019 is being observed un- boys. From January to der the theme, ‘Promoting March, there were 400 reSocial Change to Stop the ported cases of child sexual violation of Children’. abuse.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

GTT courts teachers Former GCAA chair dies with mobile plan following home invasion

TEACHERS across Guyana will continue to benefit from 25 per cent more on any prepaid mobile service from the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) through its special Teacher’s Prepaid Mobile Plan. The company on Tuesday announced it has made it easier for teachers to register for the special plan. “The purpose of the plan is to give back to our teachers in recognition of the integral role they play in shaping and developing the country’s future workforce. We want them to know that GTT appreciates all they do for the future generation of this country,” GTT’s Product Development Executive Jamal Delph explained Since the relaunch of the Teachers Plan,

with a more simple sign-up process, close to 200 teachers have registered. The plan is specially designed to provide all teachers with a 25 per cent bonus on all purchased mobile products and service, including data plans, mobile bundles and top-up credit. “To fully benefit, teachers must have an active GTT SIM card, a job letter from their school or the Ministry of Education and a valid photo ID. Once the teachers have these documents they can go to any GTT retail store and sign-up for the plan,” Delph said. He added: “Additionally, we recognise that it might be challenging for teachers to visit our stores given their work schedule and our hours, so we will also have our representatives visiting schools to do activations.”

GTT officials with teachers at a recent outreach

THE aviation fraternity in Guyana is mourning the passing of former Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) board chairman, Hugh Denbow, who died on Monday after he was hospitalised following a home invasion. Reports are that Denbow was found tied-up at his home in North Sophia over the weekend. He was found in an unconscious state with his hands, feet and neck tied together with several shirt ties. It is unclear how long he was in that position. He was taken to the Georgetown Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he died while being treated on Monday night. When news broke of the man’s death on Monday night, many who worked with him reacted in shock. He was an expert in airline

management for years and has worked as a consultant with the GCAA for some time. GCAA Director General, Retired Lieutenant Colonel, Egbert Field, told the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday that Denbow was always willing to offer support and advice to the aviation body even after his stint as board chair ended. After Denbow’s stint as chair ended, he worked along with the body as a consultant until early in 2018 when he assumed another job. Field said during the time Denbow was chair of the GCAA, he was able to contribute to the body’s development and under his watch as chair, the body made several important decisions to ensure aviation in Guyana continues in the right direction. He said many things needed to be done at the time

Hugh Denbow and Denbow started the process to ensure training and development, among other things, were undertaken to further advance the GCAA. “He was a very knowledgeable individual, he was very talented, very learned and it’s a pity that he had to go at this time when there is so much he could have offered to the aviation community,” Field said. Field said that Guyana “is poorer for having lost such a son of the soil,” as he extended condolences to the family of Denbow. Police are investigating the man’s death.

Cutting gets QCT scholarship By Wendella Davidson YOUNG Guyanese activist and animator Ms Jubilante Cutting is among 54 young leaders who will participate in the One Young World (OYW) 2019 Summit being held from October 22 to 25, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. For the 2019 summit, the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust (QCT) offered a scholarship in partnership with One Young World, to connect young leaders driving positive social impact in the Commonwealth with the opportunity to attend the OYW Summit, according to a release from the Queens’s Commonwealth Trust. OYW received over 5,000 scholarship applications for the scholarship. The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust exists to champion, fund and connect young leaders who are working hard to change the world. Using its platform to amplify the voices of young changemakers across the Commonwealth, QCT shares their stories and experiences. QCT also works in partnership with a network of organisations and individuals who share their belief in young people, to offer grants to those leading their own not-forprofit organisations. The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust has been working with OYW since 2018

YOUNG Guyanese activist and animator Ms Jubilante Cutting and earlier this year the Duchess of Sussex, a One Young World Counsellor, was named vice-president of QCT, with the Duke of Sussex its President. Her Majesty The Queen is Patron of the Charity. The QCT scholarship in particular sought to support 53 young leaders who are active in one of the following areas: Achieving change through sport; preserving and protecting the environment; creating healthier communities and increasing access to quality education. In addition to attending the OYW, the scholarship awardees will be provided with hotel accommodation on a shared basis during the summit, catering which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, transport between the summit accommodation and the Summit venue, hand-outs and

support materials and the cost of travel to and from London. The flight to and from London must , however, depart from and return to one and the same international airport. With a combined population of 2.4 billion, the 53 countries comprising the Commonwealth are home to nearly a third of the world’s population, of which 60 per cent are under 30. From Antigua & Barbuda to Zambia, young people across the Commonwealth are at the forefront of positive change in their communities, countries, and the world at large, the release added. In 2016, at age 19, Cutting founded the Guyana Animation Network Inc., an organisation that empowers young people with skills in digital media and animation. The following year, 2017, she was one of four awardees who received the coveted Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards for 2017 in front of an audience of almost 700 civil society leaders from across the globe. The awards ceremony was held in Fiji. The Awards, named for human rights icon Nelson Mandela and former First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique, humanitarian Graça Machel, honour remarkable bravery and innovation in creating social change and empowering future generations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

GTT records major decline in landline service

–– 20,000 persons dropped the service within three years

PERSONS from across the country have been giving up their landline services as technology continues to contribute to the advent of new and innovative ways of

communicating. The sole local provider of landline services, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), has recorded a massive reduction in the

use of the service over the past few years. “In three years, we saw a reduction in the use of landlines… there was a 20,000 reduction in landline services,”

North Ruimveldt Multilateral School Top CSEC student honoured by Guyana District Ground Lodge THE aspiring accountant granted financial boost to further Education. The Guyana District Ground Lodge #1 and Harmony #112-2, on Sunday 22, 2019, honoured Erykah Baptiste who performed exceedingly well at the recent Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination. Miss Baptiste, who wrote eleven subjects, secured Grade 1 in English A, Office Administration, Principles of Business, English B, Geography, Social Studies, Principles of Accounts and Grade 2 in Economics, E.D.P.M, Integrated Science and Mathematics.

The aspiring accountant has since applied to the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service (BCCPS) in pursuit of her dream. She was granted a substantial financial boost to further her post-secondary education by the Lodge. Baptiste explained to the Guyana Chronicle, in a recent interview, her reason for applying to the college. She stated that, at a time when securing a job remains a difficult task, due to the lack of opportunities or extremely high requirements, the College, after laying a foundation, guarantees its graduates employment within the Public Service.

Members of the Guyana District Ground Lodge #1 and Harmony #112-2 and Erykah Baptiste.

said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GTT, Justin Nedd, during a press briefing on Tuesday. Nedd said persons have been giving up their landline services not just in Guyana, but in other countries. The company has been reviewing similar trends in other countries and adopting ways to minimise the effects of the reduction. The CEO said the reduction in landline services is a reality which the company will have to accept. “It is not surprising, but the advantage we have in Guyana is that we are not the first to see something like this,” said Nedd, adding that the company is still in a good position. The company intends on continuing to roll out its internet services and meet the needs of the thousands of customers across the country. GTT has been extending

its services and now even offers fibre optic services in parts of Guyana. According to Nedd, the company has been extending its footprint in Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica). There are also plans to widen the reach in the coming months. “We have 80,000 homes and businesses connected to the internet…around 2012 we celebrated 10,000 so there has been a 700 per cent increase over the years,” said Nedd. The company has not just been providing internet, but quality services which could go up to 50 megabits per second. “We are doing more to speed-up the internet and customers can surely see a difference in the speed,” he said, adding that just nine years ago Guyanese used dial-up and now they can enjoy

GTT’s CEO, Justin Nedd faster internet. Not just faster internet, GTT has also implemented online systems which expedite the payment process and improve persons’ ability to report faults, among other things. “Everything is now online, you do not have to complete a paper form and come back and check...they complete a form online and get updates on where they are with that process,” said Nedd. He said the company is in a good position overall and will continue to improve the quality of service offered to Guyanese.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

South Ruimveldt students schooled on traffic safety

ONE hundred and ten students and 12 teachers of South Ruimveldt Secondary School, on Monday, benefitted from a traffic awareness lecture which focused on road safety practices. These practices focused on road safety rules, safety rules for pedal cyclists, pedestrian crossings and the curb drill. The lecture was conducted by Sergeant, Kenyatta Bishop of Traffic Headquarters, who is attached to the education section. Additionally, Sergeant

Sergeant Kenyatta Bishop of Traffic Headquarters with the South Ruimveldt Secondary School students and teachers who benefitted from the lecture

Bishop, who is eager about piloting youths in the right direction, spoke to the students about issues such as weapons in schools, saying no to drugs in all forms, peer pressure and healthy hygiene practices. He also gave a lesson on discipline, consequences of good and bad decision- making, having good role model characters, consequences of loitering on the roadways during and after school hours and suicide. The teachers commended Sergeant Bishop for his great initiative.

Drug lord Roger Khan released without charge …gets $200,000 bail, to report to the police every week

CONVICTED drug lord, Shaheed “Roger” Khan, was released on $200,000 bail after being held by the Guyana Police Force (GPF)

since he arrived in Guyana last Friday. Khan, who returned to Guyana on Friday after serving just about 10 years in a

US detention facility, was being held by the GPF for the murder of political activist Ronald Waddell and Boxing Coach, Donald Allison.

Khan’s Attorney, Glenn Hanoman, said his client was not charged for the two offences, but will have to report to the police once every week. “No charge was brought against him (Khan)…they (the police) are investigating the two matters…I am not sure if he (Khan) has to report to them as a consequence of

him being a deportee or based on the allegations,” said Hanoman. The attorney said every deportee, under the law, when they are processed, have a requirement of reporting to the police on a regular basis. Despite Khan’s release, police are still investigating the murder of Waddell and Allison. Waddell, who was a journalist and a political activist, met his demise in 2006 after he was gunned

Convicted drug trafficker, Shaheed “Roger” Khan

down in front of his Bel-Air residence. The now-deceased jourTURN TO PAGE 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

UG female empowerment movement turns three THE University of Guyana Female Empowerment Movement (UGFEM) celebrated their third anniversary on Friday evening with a small group of students sharing their individual reflective stories. Speaking at a forum held in the Education Lecture Theatre, Turkeyen Campus, founder of the organisation, Lisa Hussain, said redefining the meaning of “empowerment” for females in society, was the main reason for founding of the organisation. “I realised that the percep-

tion of being an empowered women was twisted. Instead of us helping out each other and looking out for our fellow sisters, I realised that female empowerment meant that I have to be amazing and great, and if I needed to step on you to empower myself………” Hussain said. She added: “To me that’s not what it is about. Who developed the pyramid... a lot of women, it starts with jealousy. I see you have prettier hair, I see you’re brighter, I see something more amazing about you and instead of see-

Drug lord...

FROM PAGE 14

nalist was known at the time for his harsh criticisms of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government in his television programme, ‘Taking Care of Business’. Allison, on the other hand, was killed in September 2005. Allison, a popular boxing coach, was executed in a drive-by shooting carried out by men armed with machine guns. Allison was 43 at the time and had resided at Titus Street, Agricola. He came under a barrage of withering gunfire outside the Ricola Boxing Gym on the Agricola Public Road. Allison, a former local amateur champion and professional boxer, was credited with resuscitating the Ricola Gym almost single-handedly since he was deported to Guyana from the US in January 2002. On June 15, 2006, Khan was arrested in Paramaribo, Suriname with three of his bodyguards in a sting operation that Suriname police said netted more than 200 kilograms of cocaine – the biggest cocaine haul in Suriname of that year. Instead of being deported to Guyana, then Minister of Justice of Suriname, Chan Santokhi, ordered that Khan be flown to Trinidad. Upon arrival at the airport in Trinidad, Khan was handed over to immigration authorities who then handed him over to US officials. Less than 24 hours after being expelled from Suriname, Khan was arraigned at the Brooklyn Federal Court in New York City on June 30, 2006, on a charge of “conspiring to import cocaine” and was ordered to be detained at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn. Khan, who was jailed in October 2009 for up to 15 years, asked the US court earlier this year to release

him early, based on new regulations. Khan was sentenced to a total of 40 years’ imprisonment on three separate charges by US Judge, Dora Irizarry, in 2009, after she accepted the plea bargain agreement he had reached with prosecutors. However, two of the sentences – 10 years for an illegal firearm possession, and 15 years for witness tampering – ran concurrently with the other 15-year jail term. In addition to the jail time, Roger Khan had to undergo supervised release for five years although, according to the judge, he is to be deported. Khan was also accused of executing competitors in the drug trade. POWERFUL DRUG LORD Khan was considered to be the country’s most powerful drug trafficker. He was said to have close ties to the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic, with the late ex-Home Affairs Minister, Ronald Gajraj, acting as conduit for a “Phantom Squad”. The squad was accused of murdering several criminals, competitors, and others. Although the PPP government had sought to distance itself from Khan, the drug-trafficker had stated publicly in an advertisement in local newspapers that he had been fighting crime on behalf of the Bharrat Jagdeo-led government. Khan had also implicated former Health Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, in his escapades, and documents bearing the then minister’s signature authorising the purchase of a sophisticated wire-tapping device were produced in U.S. courts during Khan’s trial. President David Granger has referred to the Roger Khan-era as the “Troubles”; a period pre-

ing that you’re good at that and I am good at something else, I end up being jealous…

So UGFEM, we started with embracing each other, and thought of ways how all of us can work together and become stronger.” After evolving over the years, Hussain said they have adapted the motto “Her empowerment, our development”. “Once women are empowered, educated and have opportunities that give development for the entire campus and by extension, the entire Guyana… Our first campaign was hashtag, compliment a girl (#complimentagirl), where we walked

around campus with compliments in a jar, and walked up to random girls on campus to pull a compliment,” she said. That campaign sparked the interest of more girls on campus and the entire movement expanded and produced results over the three years. Hussain said the organisation later accepted males, since it is also important that they know how to deal with, and respect women, and they have been seeing and experiencing tremendous results. “The pace of it is changing and girls are more willing

to open up, talk about their self-esteem issues and so on. We have leadership workshops, self-esteem workshops and other things that will help us to be equipped to execute our mandate,” she said. Hussain graduated from UG last year. However, an executive body is elected every year to continue with the work of the organisation. The new body was elected on Friday, and its members are already looking to execute programmes and increase collaboration with other organisations.

sided over by the Bharrat Jagdeo-led administration. The President said it was the “darkest hour” that was

characterised by drug-driven chaos and bloodshed. Jagdeo was President of Guyana from August 11,

1999 to December 3, 2011, during which there were three massacres: Lusignan, where 11 people were

killed; Bartica, where another 12 were killed; and Lindo Creek, where seven miners were slaughtered.

Founder of UGFEM, Lisa Hussain

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

‘GRAIN-H’ programme launched in Region 4 -Minister Valerie Adams -Yearwood encourages Guyanese to sustain healthy eating habits

ON Monday, the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Region Four, Demerara Mahaica’s Health Service programme, launched the Guyana Re-Aligning Agriculture for Improved Nutrition and Health (GRAIN-H) programme. The launch was held at the Herdmanston Lodge in Queenstown where Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Hon. Valerie Adams-Yearwood delivered the keynote address. Minister Adams-Yearwood stated that “Guyana

Re-aligning Agriculture for Improved Nutrition & Health, or GRAIN-H to paraphrase that concept, is a welcome convergence of ideas to address the objectives of the agriculture and health sectors.” The Minister encouraged Guyanese to get back to the soil and have kitchen gardens established to promote a healthy lifestyle, through the ‘GRAIN-H’ initiative, which was created in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council, Region Four. She explained that the initiative is established to address the goals of the Agriculture and Public

Health sectors. She noted that the primary objective of ‘GRAIN-H’ programme is to ensure that Guyana has access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among Guyanese. The project will undergo a pilot period lasting up to December of this year. Participants in the project will be drawn from the Geriatrics, Antenatal and NCD clinics. They will be taught to view food as their medicine both in terms of its nutritional content as well as how it is prepared and consumed to ensure that it is healthy. They will be given guid-

ance on improving their nutrition through the growth, preparations and consumption of healthy and wholesome foods. This will be done by providing them with the training to establish and maintain their own kitchen gardens at home. The Ministry of Public Health, with the Technical Support of the Ministry of Agriculture, will establish demonstration Kitchen Garden Plots at all participating health centres in the project. They will allow for the demonstration of the various crops that could be grown and used to have a positive bearing on the nutritional

The Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Valerie Adams –Yearwood

needs of the participants. Country Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Gillian Smith, endorsed the project. “This is the kind of initiative that can help persons to think more purposefully, and make more radical and drastic changes in their consumption patterns, in the consumption patterns of their families, in the consumption patterns of our communities and the consumption patterns of our nation. By helping people to utilise more healthy foods, more locally produced, fresh foods we are helping ourselves and we are helping the nation to ensure that we maintain a produc-

tive and healthy population” Regional Health Officer(RHO), Dr. Quincy Jones, who also gave remarks at the launch, stated that far too many Guyanese suffer from Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD)as a result of unhealthy eating habits. He pointed out that the initiative will not only be beneficial to the residents of Region Four but to the entire population of Guyana. Also in attendance at the launch were–Minister in the Ministry of the Presidency, with responsibility for Youth Affairs, Simona Broomes; Chairman of the RDC Region Four, Ms. Genevieve Allen; Supervising Medical Officer Region Four, Dr. Mark Vyfhuis; Regional Executive Office(REO), Pauline Lucas and Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communities, Mr. Emil McGarrell. The ‘GRAIN-H’ inititiave is in keeping with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

Elderly Berbice woman killed by bees BASMATTIE Singh called “Lil Gal,” an 84-year-old resident of Black Bush Polder, Berbice, died Monday morning when a swarm of bees, believed to be the Africanised bees, attacked and stung her to death. The mother of 10 formerly lived alone at Lot 39 Mibicuri North, Black Bush Polder, but one of her daughters, Omapattie Singh, and two grandchildren lived next door. The woman was attacked around 08:00hrs and was already dead by the time the police and Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) officers arrived on the scene to render help, another daughter, Devika Ledra informed this newspaper. A granddaughter tried to help by throwing a bucket of water on the woman but she ended up being stung as well. Ledra remembers her mother as a very simple and down to earth woman, who worked hard in her earlier days as a seamstress and a vendor at the New Amsterdam Market; she sold fruits and vegetables. She said her mother would always say that

Basmattie Singh

she loved living in her own house, and would always refuse her offer to move in with her and family. The family is shocked at the manner in which Singh passed, as she was a strong woman who had no health issues. “No pressure, no sugar, no cholesterol, nothing! She was always up and about, and if she didn’t like my sister’s food, she’d go cook her own. I always imagined she’d die of old age in her sleep one day, so this was shocking to me.” Singh, grandmother to 22 and great grandmother to seven, was married to Roopnarine Singh who died 34 years ago.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

WPA continues push for cash transfers from oil wealth THE Working People’s Alliance (WPA), in its continued pitch for cash transfers through Guyana’s oil wealth, has debunked many of the myths associated with the initiative. One of the main myths discredited was that the US$5,000 cash transfer per household proposed by economist, Professor Clive Thomas, will cause Guyanese to become lazy. At a Public Symposium on Cash Transfer on Monday at the Critchlow Labour College, Prof. Thomas stated that challenges faced to the various forms of cash transfers are due to lack of information, prejudice, the spread of opinions over facts, out-of-date theories and more. “I cannot imagine a more preposterous statement,” Prof. Thomas said, in reference to the stance regarding laziness. “Because the cash transfer is going to every household, it meets the test of being non-racial. I’m not suggesting that you give the black families or the Amerindian families or Indian families…I still believe that the foundation on which the WPA has always founded itself is respect for the working people.” He was seated amongst WPA Executive Member, David Hinds and General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, who met with scores of interested individuals. Dr. Hinds told the gathering that in pushing for the cash transfer initiative in Guyana, the WPA hopes to bring about “qualitative change” in the country. He called on those in the position of leadership in the country to recognise the wisdom of the idea, treat it as a “serious proposal” and to visualise what it would mean for the average Guyanese. THERE MUST BE A PLAN Meanwhile, in explaining the benefits of cash transfers, it was noted that prior to the implementation of such an initiative, there must be a careful plan. Data was sited from sources like Rystad Energy Analytics, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)

and the World Bank. Research from the latter showed that certain types of cash transfers aid social inclusion; food, nutrition and health; education; labour; early childhood development and hinders the impact of poverty and inequality. At the same time, Prof. Thomas said that the initiative – if accepted – is not likely to be fully operational until the latter part of 2020 and is not intended to be permanent as most Guyanese will be better off each new year into oil production. Also, Prof. Thomas stated that phasing in and out of how cash transfers would be administered must be linked to the number of barrels of oil and how much is produced per day. It estimated households which would be reached in Guyana is 210,000, while the estimated annual cost for the initiative would be $US1.05B. Prof. Thomas lamented that most Guyanese do not have an idea of how much potential wealth is out there for them to benefit from. Nonetheless, he told those in attendance that Guyana has the world’s fastest rate of oil discoveries and by 2025 the country could become well respected as one of the largest oil producers. STEADY SUPPORT During the question and answer segment, several persons from the audience stood up to make queries or to support the intention of the cash transfer initiative. “Without the details that I saw here tonight, I strongly support the proposal,” said one, John Woolford, who believes it is the way for persons to come out of poverty. He hopes that such an initiative can support the work of small farmers for greater agriculture success in Guyana. Meanwhile, Arthur Thorne of Region Three called on Guyanese, especially those who stand to benefit from cash transfer, to rise up in their numbers in support of the initiative. Another person urged persons not only to think about the ways in which they could spend $US5,000,

but to think of ways in which they can invest their money for greater returns. Prof. Thomas said that he will be moving towards the documentation of his strategy for cash transfer to be best able to provide information on the same and kick into action if or when the time comes.

Members of the head table (L-R): Professor Clive Thomas; WPA Executive Member, David Hinds and General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis meet with several interested persons at the WPA’s Public Symposium on Monday (Samuel Maughn photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Procurement Commission hosts sensitisation engagement

THE Public Procurement Commission conducted a stakeholder meeting with public procuring entities at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown, on Tuesday. According to a release, the attendees were permanent secretaries and heads of department from various ministries and government agencies with their procurement staff, and representatives of the Guyana Defence Force, Local Government Commission and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Stakeholders at the workshop hosted by the Public Procurement Commission on Tuesday

The release stated that matters discussed during the meeting included recent legislative developments and their impact on the public procurement system, the requirement for submission of procurement plans, procurement expenditure and contract award information and areas of ongoing training for procurement staff. “Clarifications were sought on the issues discussed and, at the end of the proceedings, the sensitisation programme was deemed by the participants to be most educative and highly suc-

cessful,” the release said. The lack of capacity through the shortage of trained staff has been an area of concern to most of the entities. This issue will be raised at governmental level to ensure that procurement departments in all entities are adequately staffed. The Public Procurement Commission has identified several areas where training will be conducted, and will continue to engage with all entities to ensure that their procurement programmes are fully and effectively realised.

Commonwealth, PSC join call for elections date Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland has urged President David Granger and all relevant stakeholders and institutions to “restore constitutional rule in Guyana” without further delay. The call comes even as President David Granger maintains that he is acting within the confines of the Constitution and treating “urgent” the selection of a date for new General and Regional Elections. “…in accordance with the ruling of the CCJ, a general election in Guyana is now constitutionally overdue. A general election should be held in accordance with the unambiguous constitutional imperative to do so. The Secretary-General has spoken with the Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and discussed Commonwealth support to GECOM,” Scotland stated. She added that the rule of law and constitutional governance are fundamental Commonwealth values to which Guyana has subscribed. Scotland therefore advised the immediate setting of an early election date in consonance with the Constitution. Making similar calls on Monday was the Private Sector Commission (PSC) which stated that the Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), having relayed a deliverable elections timeline by the end of February 2020, should see the President now naming a date. “The Private Sector

Commission now calls upon President Granger to name a date for the holding of Regional and General Elections by the end of February as defined by GECOM without any further prevarication or delay,” the PSC stated on Monday. Meanwhile, just on Sunday, President David Granger stated that he intends to meet with his fuller Cabinet today with the hope of arriving at a consensus on an election date. While the President convened a meeting with this Cabinet members of the date that he was informed by Singh, all ministers of Cabinet within the six-party coalition were not present at the time. The newspaper was able to confirm that at least two ministers were out of the jurisdiction at the time. “When I left Pegasus Hotel, I went straight into Cabinet meeting. Some Ministers were travelling, so we have had the first Cabinet meeting. Regardless of what other misinformed media outlets [are saying], we have had the first meeting and it will be coming up again,” the Head of State told the DemeraraWaves and Stabroek News on Sunday. “Prime Minister was there; Minister of Public Security was there; the two ministers who were affected by the hooliganism were there; but the fuller cabinet will meet again on Tuesday…this is urgent.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

China Focus: China's green development wins recognition, creates new opportunities BEIJING, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- China's economic growth has long impressed the world with its blistering speed. Now its accelerating green transformation is expected to offer inspiring lessons in coordinating the economy and the natural environment. Ant Forest, a green initiative on the world's leading payment platform Alipay, last week won the 2019 UN Champions of the Earth award for turning the "green good deeds of half a billion people" into real trees planted in some of China's most arid regions. It was not the first time that China won the UN's highest environmental honor for outstanding contributions in terms of a positive transformative impact on the environment. Last year, the Zhejiang green rural revival program won the award for inspiration and action for its work to regenerate polluted waterways and damaged lands. In 2017, the Saihanba afforestation community was recognized in the inspiration and action category for transforming degraded land in northern China into a lush paradise. The awards came amid China's solid progress in curbing pollution, which is a key part of China's "three tough battles" that also include forestalling and defusing major risks and targeted

poverty alleviation. The importance attached to the environment is now greater than ever. Policymakers have reiterated that China's modernization is characterized by harmonious coexistence between man and nature. China's economic growth has not come without negative consequences for the environment and climate. In the late 1970s, China's economy began expanding, and the expansion accelerated in the following decades, during which problems of environmental pollution also increased. To strike a balance between economic boom and environmental burden, the

country has strived to wean its economy off excessive environment-damaging development and advance well-coordinated environmental conservation. In the 1980s, China enshrined environmental protection as a fundamental national policy. The sustainable development strategy was formulated and put into practice in the 1990s. Since 2012, the development of an ecological civilization has gained greater momentum. Now the country follows a maxim illustrated in the catchphrase: "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." The connection between China's pollution and eco-

nomic growth has been weakening since 1995, according to new international research published in the Science Advances journal that was based on statistics including economic growth and environmental conditions in China during the 1977-2017 period. Researchers from five countries also point out that increased environmental awareness and investments in China over the past decade have produced results. Air quality in China continued to improve with more cities reporting a drop in major pollutant indicators. Surface water quality kept improving in general. In terms of soil pollution con-

trol, the country had reduced solid waste imports by 46.5 percent last year. Vigorous environmental protection has injected impetus into related sectors. Total revenue of China's environmental protection industry is expected to surpass 2 trillion yuan (about 281 billion U.S. dollars) in 2020, up from 1.5 trillion yuan in 2018, according to estimates by the China Association of Environmental Protection Industry. Green finance also took off. In 2018, the country issued a total of 31.2 billion dollars in green bonds, remaining the world's second-largest green bond market, according to the China Central Depository & Clearing Co. and Climate Bonds Initiative. The country announced a plan in 2016 to establish a national green finance mechanism, becoming the first country in the world to do so. It also helped push green finance to be included on the G20 agenda. In recent years, China has adhered to the path of giving priority to ecology and green development, said Minister of Ecology and Environment Li Ganjie. "Ecological and environmental protection has become an important force and a key to promoting high-quality economic development."

Interview: China's achievements in 70 years impressive, commendable -- Chilean party leader SANTIAGO, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- China's achievements in various fields in the past 70 years are impressive and highly commendable, Secretary-General of Communist Party of Chile Lautaro Carmona said. Carmona told Xinhua in a recent interview that he has visited China three times in recent years, and was impressed by the changes in the

Chinese society. "I saw them with my own eyes," he said. Carmona said that the Asian country is building a socialist system with Chinese characteristics, designed and developed according to its actual conditions and situations. No other country in the world has been able to achieve such tremendous social progress as China in a relatively short period of

time, said Carmona, hailing China's poverty reduction efforts as well as its attention to ecological protection in the process. He said he saw in China a society functioning efficiently and safely, with people enjoying advanced transportation and power facilities. Moreover, technology development has brought convenience to municipal management as well as peo-

ple's daily life, he added. Indeed, China still faces challenges of unbalanced and insufficient development, especially in rural areas, he said, but the government is making efforts to crack the problems. Speaking highly of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Carmona said the initiative facilitates exchanges between countries in terms of politics,

economy, trade and culture on the basis of equality and mutual respect. Lauding the initiative as a people-centered one, Carmona said that since Latin American has experienced overexploitation of mineral, marine and forest resources, it would be very meaningful to promote exchanges on environmental protection between Latin America and China.

China issues white paper on human rights progress over 70 years BEIJING, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) -- China on Sunday published a white paper on its progress in the field of human rights over the past 70 years. The white paper, titled "Seeking Happiness for People: 70 Years of Progress on Human Rights in China," was released by the State Council Information Office. "Living a happy life is the primary human right," the document said, adding that China regards the rights to subsistence and devel opment as the primary and basic human rights and has been improving the rights of its people in a coordinated manner since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, especially after the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2012. Seventy years ago, under the leadership of the CPC, the people of China were emancipated and became masters of their country. Over the past seven decades, the Chinese nation has stood up and grown prosperous and is becoming strong; all basic rights of the people are better respected and protected; and China has made regular contribution to the international cause of human rights, the white paper said. China has opened a new path of human rights protection based on its national conditions, and increased the diversity of human civilizations, it said. In the future, the Chinese people will certainly enjoy to the full more extensive rights and realize well-rounded development at higher levels, it said. The white paper noted that, in the new era, China will continue to uphold cultural diversity, com municate with and learn from other civilizations and work with the international community for common development and prosperity, for progress in human rights worldwide, and for building a community with a shared future for humanity.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Commemorative stamp unveiled NIS golden … at Mayor Narineanniversary tells M&CC By Naomi Parris

THE National Insurance Scheme (NIS) celebrated its 50th anniversary with the launch of a commemorative stamp at the Umana Yana, Kingston, Georgetown on Tuesday. NIS was established three years after Guyana gained independence from Britain, in May, 1966. Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who spoke at the launch, said NIS, over

of NIS came at an historic period in Guyana, the arrival of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading Facility (FPSO), which Minister Jordan and the First Lady, Sandra Granger visited. “We are all anxiously awaiting the arrival of first oil. The developments in the oil sector have made Guyana prominent on the world map and the recent discoveries of Exxon+14 and Tullow+2, just a few days ago, have catapulted our country among

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan the years, has evolved in spite of challenges. “[It] is a living testimony of the foresight and wisdom of the PNC and the ability of the government that it led to make wise policy decisions that are beneficial to Guyanese citizens,” he told the gathering. Government, he said, will continue to make every effort to keep NIS relevant and viable so that Guyanese can continue to enjoy bigger and better benefits. “As the minister of finance, with responsibility for general oversight and policy guidance to the National Insurance Scheme, I am aware of some of the challenges that the organisation faces, in its efforts to maintain financial sustainability. Some of these challenges are similar to those faced by other National Insurance Schemes in the region,” he noted. The 50th anniversary

the world’s top oil producing nations per capita,” Jordan said. Oil production will propel significant economic growth in Guyana, creating employment opportunities at all levels of the supply chain. The minster noted that it was up to the board of directors, management and staff of NIS to seize the moment and expand the scheme’s revenue base and enhance its financial position. He added that NIS should continue to build capacity and put the necessary institutional measures in place to ensure all employers, employees and self-employed individuals are registered with the scheme and their contributions remitted in a timely manner. John Seeram, the chairman of NIS who also spoke at the celebration, praised the management of NIS for the production of the stamp.

“This commemorative stamp will go a long way in terms of recognition and sustenance of this most cherished institution. As we launch this commemorative stamp, let’s reflect and ponder on the major role NIS continues to play in Guyana’s national development and well-being,” he said

The commemorative stamp commissioned on Tuesday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Anna Catherina murder trial continues today

THE 2012 trial into the murders of Anna Catherina liquor store owner Jennifer Persaud and her sons Afridi Bacchus, six, and Jadon Persaud, 18 months, who was killed in 2012, during a home invasion, continued on Tuesday, September 24, 2019. The former reputed wife of murder accused Abishai Caesar, was recalled by the state for further cross-examination, before Justice Brassington Reynolds and a mixed 12-member jury at the High Court and gave evidence

Abishai Caesar against her ex-lover. Caesar denied the charges which stated that, between

September 21, 2012, and September 22, 2012, at Sea View Anna Catherina, he murdered 41-year-old Jennifer Persaud, called “Jenny”, and her sons Afridi Bacchus, six, and Jadon Ernest, 18 months. Phillips told the court that during September 2012, she was 17 year old at the time and lived in Anna Catherina with her reputed husband Caesar. Zoey Phillips was grilled by defense attorney Maxwell McKay, while the state was represented by Prosecutors Lisa Cave and Seeta Bishun-

dial. Phillips had earlier testified that she lived with Caesar and Persaud was her neighbour. “Abishai said to me that he was going over to Jenny to get some money because he was broke,” Phillip had told the court during her first appearance. The couple then went into the lower flat of their home, into the kitchen, where Caesar armed himself with a wood-handle knife, a pair of green gloves, while being clad in a 3/4 pants.

Jennifer Persaud, and her sons Afridi Bacchus, six, and Jadon Ernest who was 18 months old at the time The witness said that Caesar went to the back of their house and gained entry into their neighbour’s yard through an opening in the zinc fence. Phillips told the court that her neighbour had clear glass windows and she was able to see Caesar in the woman’s home by peeping through the louvre window in her bedroom. After seeing Caesar as he went up the step in Persaud’s home, Phillips claimed that she went to bed and fell asleep. However, she was awakened by the sound of a woman screaming and sat in her bed. Thirty minutes later, Caesar called for her, and she went downstairs into the kitchen and opened the back door for him. According to Phillips, Caesar had a small cardboard beer box in his hands, and told her that that was all he got from raiding Jennifer’s home. The box contained a number of $20 and $100 bills which amounted to $3,000.

He also came back with the pair of gloves and a knife, both of which had what appeared to be blood. There was also what appeared to be spots of blood on his pair of pants. The witness disclosed that her reputed husband told her that Jennifer awoke and saw him inside of the home and he killed her because she saw his face and knew him well. Caesar, Phillips explained, told her that, while he was stabbing Jennifer, the older son woke and saw him. This caused him to kill the older son plus the baby. The couple then went to the sea walls, where Caesar threw the knife into the river. Then they went into the street and Caesar threw the gloves and pants into some bushes. The witness explained that they went back home and into bed where they slept. The trial continues today

Rape accused freed

TEVIN Vickerie was, on Tuesday, September 24, 2019, freed of a rape charge by the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court, after a jury returned a not-guilty verdict. Vickerie, a 23-year-old taxi driver was on trial, before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall, for allegedly engaging in sexual penetration with a 13-year-old between January 1, 2018, and January 31, 2018, at Soesdyke/Linden Highway. Vickerie was represented by attorney Tiffany Jeffery, while the State’s case was presented by Prosecutors Tariq Mohamed and Sarah Martin. Justice Morris-Ramlall, after the unanimous verdict from the jury, told Vickerie that he was free to go. He was out on $400,000 bail during trial. According to reports, the FREED Tevin Vickerie teen was a passenger in Vickerie’s motor car when the offence allegedly occurred. Vickerie drove pass the teen’s home and headed to a location along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. He then locked the car doors with them inside and asked the teen for sex. The teen had refused, causing Vickerie to become annoyed. He then held onto the teen and allegedly raped her. After the act, he drove the teen home where she told her relatives what transpired after crying out for pain. The matter was reported to the police and an investigation was launched.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Taxi driver accused of sexual assault remanded CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday, September 24, 2019, remanded a 32-year-old taxi driver of North Ruimveldt for sexually assaulting a girl under the age of sixteen. Neville Thomas appeared at the Georgetown Magistratesâ€™ Court and was not required to plead to the charge. It is alleged that, between April 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, at Diamond, East Bank, he engaged in sexual penetration with a twelve-year-old child. Police prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that the victim and Thom-

as were known to each other since he picked her up every day from school. Mansfield further told the court that, on the day in question, Thomas picked up the victim from school and, on their way home, he took her to a hotel in Diamond, where he had sexual intercourse with her. The matter was reported and Thomas was arrested and later charged. Magistrate Ann McLennan, after listening to the prosecutor, remanded Thomas to prison and adjourned the matter until October 4, 2019.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

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Powerlifting team exceeded expectations – coach Smith … racked up 91 medals - 38 gold, 34 silver and 19 bronze GUYANA’S team to the Pan American/South American Powerlifting (FESUPO) and Bench Press Equipped and Classic Championships returned home over the last two days with a performance that was beyond exceptional. The team racked up 91 medals - 38 gold, 34 silver and 19 bronze to finish third in the 13-team event. Coach of the team, Erwin Smith, told Chronicle Sport, “The performance exceeded my expectations.” “The team beat my expectation,” Smith said, adding that their first plan was to end the tournament with all their athletes uninjured. “One of our goals was basically to beat our last medal haul (2017) championship and we did that and doubled it plus extra and it was very much an experience. “This was my first stint in coaching and such a large team, but I think I did well.” Chronicle Sport also spoke to Runita White, who outlined her performances throughout the event. “I am proud of my accomplishments even though it was not my best performance of my powerlifting experiences but, at the end of the day, I still tried my best and I got second in my category and first place for heaviest squat.” White ended with two gold and six silver medals. The other members of the team were Nadina Taharally (4 gold, 5 silver), Natoya Robinson (6 gold, 2 silver), Lisa Oudit (1 silver, 4 bronze), Noel Cummings (8 gold, 1 silver, 4 bronze), Frank Brisport-Luke (11 silver, 3 bronze), Bjorn Williams (2 gold, 4 bronze), Frank Tucker (8 gold, 4 bronze) and Naranjan Singh (8 gold, 4 silver, 4 bronze).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Six former Berbice cricketers honoured at BCB 80th anniversary celebration

Former national coach Albert Smith (left) presents trophy to Andre Percival

SIX outstanding former players have been recognised for their performances on the cricket field and for being ambassadors of the game in the Ancient County, as part of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) 80th anniversary celebration last Friday. The players honoured were Sudesh Dhaniram, Kevin Darlington, Orvin Mangru, Andre Percival, Deonarine Persaud and Zaheer Moakan. BCB president Hilbert Foster, in a review of the programme, stated that the current batch of Berbice

players need to know of the achievements of yesteryear players who had dedicated themselves to the game despite the low financial returns. While the current players enjoy huge financial incentives, the majority of past cricketers were involved in cricket due to their love of the game.Foster promised that the BCB would continue to honour players, umpires, officials as long as he remains the president. The six players were selected by the pro-active BCB-based on their performances on the field, role model status,

Orvin Mangru (right) receives his award from BCB Secretary Robbie Saywack

personal discipline and contributions to Berbice cricket. Sudesh Dhaniram represented Albion Community Centre, Port Mourant cricket club, Berbice, Guyana and West Indies ‘B’. He became a household name across the Caribbean when he scored two majestic centuries on debut against Barbados and Leeward Islands. Foster stated that Dhaniram, if he was playing today would have walked into the West Indies team. Kevin Darlington for many years during the 1990s was a permanent member of the fast-bowling attack and rep-

resented Bermine and Berbice and Guyana.. Orvin Mangru, a product of the Albion Community Centre cricket club represented Berbice and Guyana at the Under-19 level and holds the national record for the most wickets in an innings - 9 for 116 - versus Barbados in 1999. Andre Percival would forever be remembered for leading Guyana to three consecutive Under-19 Championships and his leadership of the dominant Port Mourant Cricket Club in 1990s. Percival was also a member of the Guyana team

Albert Smith presents gift to Zaheer Moakan.

which won the first-ever Stanford 20/20 titles and also played for the West Indies Under-19 and B teams. Deonarine Persaud for a number of years captained Port Mourant Cricket Club to numerous titles including the National Bristol Cup. Persaud also represented Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies at the Under-19 levels. Zaheer Moakan was widely respected and known for his duties as an umpire, but was a productive cricketer at the First and Second Division. A solid left-handed batsman, he represented Police Sports Club and Young Warriors Cricket Club be-

fore turning to umpiring. Moakan, speaking on behalf of his fellow awardees, expressed gratitude to the BCB for making them feel special on the 80th anniversary of Berbice cricket. He hailed the work of the current executive and urged all Berbicians to work together for the development of the game. Each of the retired players received framed certificates, trophy, medal and a gift. The 2019 Tribute to Retired Programmes was sponsored by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and Republic Bank.

Somerset edge past Port Mourant Secondary advance to RHTYSC/GBTI final 200 against Essex … J.C. Chandisingh cruise into semi-fianls PORT Mourant Secondary School defeated Central Corentyne Secondary School by nine wickets to advance to the final of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/RHTYSC/GBTI Region 6 Inter-Secondary School Under-19 cricket tournament. Port Mourant drew the bye into the final while J.C. Chandisingh Secondary defeated arch-rivals Berbice High by 43 runs to reach the lone semifinals, where they will clash with the Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) to decide the other finalists. Play in the tournament restarted after it was postponed for five months due to the long rainy season and summer holidays. The tournament is sponsored by the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Ltd (GBTI) and was organised under the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTYSC) Say Yes to Education and sports programme. Central Corentyne Secondary won the toss against Port Mourant and elected to bat at the Port Mourant ground. They were bowled out

for a meagre 39 in 18 overs.. National Under-15 player Matthew Pottaya claimed three wickets for three runs and received support from D. Harripersaud 3 for 8 and P. Ramkhelawan 2 for 6. Needing to score 40 to win, Port Mourant raced to 43 for 1 from 6.3 overs as West Indies Under-15 star Rampersaud Rampertab ended on 22 not out. At the Area ‘H’ Ground, J.C. Chandisingh batted first after losing the toss and reached 150 for 7 off their allotted 20 overs. Jonathan Rampersaud stroked a sold 5 3 (3x4, 2x6) and received support from Riyah Mohabir 29, Surendra Ramcharitar 18 and Jeremy Sandia 18. Bowling for Berbice High, S. Seeram took 2 for 8 while Abdul Ramsammy had 2 for 26. In response Berbice High was restricted to 107 for 9, with Zeynul Ramsammy 11 and S. Seeram 15 being the only batsmen to reach double figures. Left-arm spinners Lucas Arthur 2 for 16 and former National player Pavendra Gnesh 4 for 16 bowled well for J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School.

A LAST-wicket stand of 59 between Roelof van der Merwe and Jack Leach kept Somerset’s hopes of beating Essex and claiming a first County Championship title alive. Somerset were reeling on 144-9 on another rain-affected day at Taunton, but van der Merwe (60) and Leach (11 not out) took them to a decent score. Leaders Essex closed on 25-0 as more rain saw play called off at tea. Somerset must win to become champions, while a draw is enough for Essex. Time is now against Somerset who have two more days to try and take 20 wickets and force a victory, although the forecast is looking better for the remainder of the game. On a day when several matches were washed out, the rain relented in the south west of England and allowed play to begin at 12:00hrs BST - 90 minutes after the scheduled start. Somerset had stuttered to 75-4 on a rain-shortened opening day of the title decider, and were soon five down when George Bartlett poked Simon Harmer (5-105) to leg slip.

Wickets continued to tumble either side of lunch with seamer Sam Cook (4-26) providing excellent support for Harmer. The Essex spinner picked up the crucial wicket of Somerset captain Tom Abell (45) lbw straight after lunch and the hosts looked set to post less than 150 when Dom Bess was bowled by Cook to leave them nine down. But van der Merwe, who has a first-class double hundred, opened his shoulders batting at 10. The 34-year-old struck four sixes into the leg-side, including three off Harmer, while Leach looked comfortable at the other end. Having taken Somerset past 200, van der Merwe was eventually bowled by spinner Aaron Nijjar attempting a reverse sweep. Alastair Cook and Nick Browne saw out a tricky 11 overs for Essex before tea with Craig Overton and Lewis Gregory both bowling testing spells. However, the rain returned during the interval and play was called off at 16:50hrs with only 45 overs bowled in the day. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Six-try Samoans exploit tired Russians as three players see yellow

By Padraic Halpin

KUMAGAYA, Japan (Reuters) - Samoa survived being reduced to 13 men for almost 10 minutes in the first half and struggled to overcome a limited and exhausted Russia team to open their Pool A campaign with a bonus-point 34-9 victory at Kumagaya Rugby Stadium yesterday. The Pacific islanders scored six tries but did themselves no favours in a scrappy game that saw Rey LeeLo and Motu Matu’u shown yellow cards for high tackles within two minutes of each other, while Russia’s Kirill Gotovtsev was also sinbinned for a similar offence. “It was a tough game, we knew the Russians were going to come in the first 20-40 minutes, we just had to stick it out and I’m really proud of the way the boys came back in the second half. We’re here to create a legacy,” captain Chris Vui said in a pitchside interview. They will have to be a lot more accurate to stand any chance of matching the trailblazing Samoan quarter-finals of the 1990s with Scotland, Japan and Ireland to come, even after some

Bristol Bears’ Alapati Leiua scored the only try of the first half as two Russian penalties saw them lead at the break.

impressively worked tries for Lee-Lo, Afaesetiti Amosa and two each for wingers Alapati Leiua and Ed Fidow. After going at Japan hard in the tournament’s opening game and giving the hosts a scare in the process, Russia set out with the same gameplan and again found themselves in the lead early on in front of a crowd packed with

enthusiastic local fans. The noticeably fresher Samoans struck first though after a fine skip pass from Clermont Auvergne’s Tim Nanai-Williams found Leiua and the Bristol man, who shifted to the wing in a late injury-enforced change, jinked his way over in the corner. But the Russian setpiece

and kicking game that concerned Samoa coach Steve Jackson before kickoff tested his side’s discipline and as the penalty count ticked up, Russia flyhalf Yury Kushnarev knocked two over for a 6-5 lead. With World Rugby publicly criticising the officiating over the first weekend of the World Cup shortly

before kickoff, Romain Poite had a decision to make on 28 minutes when centre Lee-Lo went in high on Russia captain Vasily Artemyev. Poite and his television match official deemed that Artemyev had dipped slightly into the tackle and made the same call two minutes later when a near identical tackle sent hooker Matu’u to

the bin. Their opponents were unable to make anything from the two-man advantage, something Artemyev rued after the game as the punishing four-day turnaround from the Japan defeat began to show among their unchanged side in the second half. Amosa put the Samoans back in front with a try just after the break and Gotvotsev’s yellow card for catching him high just as he was about to score ended Amosa’s night too after his knee buckled in the collision. Matu’u also failed a head injury assessment and could miss their September 30 clash with Scotland in Kobe. Samoa showed how to use the 10-minute advantage and put the game out of sight by the time Gotvotsev returned, first with the kind of flair Vui promised before the game as replacement hooker Ray Niuia’s delicious nolook reverse pass put Fidow through. The winger got his second minutes later before Lee-Lo and Leiua rounded the score off against the Russians, who now have nine days off until they meet Ireland in Kobe.

Warne gets 12-month Umpiring dispute mars OMSCC Division One final driving ban for speeding TORONTO, Canada – On what was certainly a picture-perfect day for cricket, the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) 2019 season ended on a disappointing note at the St Bede’s ground here, last Sunday, with an umpiring dispute marring the Division One final between Warriors and Rebels. The encounter promised much with heavy bragging rights at stake following Saturday’s semis which saw Warriors defeat defending champions Our Own, and Rebels getting past Reliance Lions. However, what transpired left a very bad taste for the spectators. With just four overs into the contest, controversy erupted over the legitimacy of a catch, prompting disgruntled players and some unruly spectators to invade the playing area. The officiating umpires, from what could

be observed, apparently reversed their decisions in favour of both teams at different intervals during the more than one-hour delay. Even the intervention from members of the executives of the OMSCC failed to break the deadlock, as neither sides budged on their respective stands, one claiming that the original decision of out should be upheld while the other claimed the decision should be reversed in their favour. The executives eventually abandoned the game with neither side being declared winners. At that stage Rebels were 24 for two in 4.2 overs (that’s if the player in question Yadram Bogh’s dismissal was upheld). Unconfirmed reports indicate that the OMSCC will be making attempts to replay the game. (Frederick Halley)

CRICKET legend Shane Warne has been banned from driving for 12 months after he admitted speeding. The 50-year-old pleaded guilty at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court to driving at 47mph in a 40mph zone in a hired Jaguar car; in Kensington last August. The Australian, who was not in court for the hearing, already had 15 penalty points on his licence for five speeding offences from April 2016. He was also ordered to pay a total of £1,845 to the court. Deputy District Judge Adrian Turner told the court: “It may well be that none on its own were particularly serious but for points disqualification purposes the triviality of the offences is not to be taken into account. “A period of 12 months is necessary for the purposes I have mentioned.” Warne, of Little Venice, west London, is regarded as one of the best bowlers in cricket history. The Australia leg-spinner took 708

Shane Warne already had 15 penalty points on his licence.

wickets in 145 Tests between 1992 and 2007. He was ordered to pay £775 in costs, fined £900, and must pay a surcharge of £170. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Tallawahs keep playoff hopes alive with five-run win over Tridents

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – All-rounder Dwayne Smith returned to haunt his former team Barbados Tridents as Jamaica Tallawahs inflicted a demoralising five-run defeat on the hosts, in a low-scoring, last-over thriller at Kensington Oval here Monday night. With Tridents needing 15 runs off the last over in pursuit of a paltry 128, Barbadian Smith – ignored by his home franchise in this year’s draft – then conceded only nine runs and grabbed the key wicket of Raymon Reifer, to deliver victory for Tallawahs. Tridents put their noses in front when Sandeep Lamichhane scrambled a single off the first ball and Reifer then cleared the ropes at square leg, leaving eight runs to get from the last four balls of the over. Reifer skied the third ball into the deep for a couple but Smith then exacted revenge off the fourth delivery, inducing the lefthander to loft a slower ball to Shamar Springer at deep cover. Tridents were still in with a chance with six runs needed off the last two de-

liveries but Smith kept Lamichhane scoreless off both in a dramatic finish. Opener Johnson Charles top-scored with a painstaking 31 off 35 balls while Reifer’s 26 came from just 12 balls down the order and managed to re-energised a feeble run chase. Leg-spinner Imran Khan (3-19) and Barbadian fast bowler Springer (332) snatched three wickets apiece while Smith produced a crucial spell of two for 22 from his three overs. The result for the hosts extended their wretched run at the Oval to eight straight defeats dating back to the 2017 season, and was their fourth in six outings overall for the current campaign. Tallawahs, meanwhile, kept alive their slim playoff hopes with what was only their second win of the campaign – both coming over Tridents. Both teams now have four points but Tridents remain fourth courtesy of net run rate while Tallawahs lie fifth. Sent in earlier in a match watched by England’s Barbadian fast bowling sensation, Jofra Archer, Tallawahs batted poorly and were dismissed for 127

Medium-pacer Shamar Springer celebrates one of his three wickets after removing Ashley Nurse. (Photo courtesy CPL)

off their 20 overs, with inform opener Glenn Phillips stroking 41 off 35 balls and Ramaal Lewis providing a late flourish with 27 off 22 deliveries. Nineteen-year-old Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane, in his last game for Tridents, finished with two for 17 while captain Jason Holder (2-21) and left-arm seamer Reifer (2-31) also chipped in with two wickets apiece.

Playing without explosive all-rounder Andre Russell, it meant Tallawahs needed a score from talisman Chris Gayle but he chopped on to pacer Holder for one in the second over with 11 runs on the board. Chadwick Walton (13) sparkled briefly with a four and a six before edging Lamichhane to slip where Ashley Nurse took a brilliant reflex one-handed, diving catch in the fifth over.

And when George Worker (6) and Smith (1) fell in quick succession, Tallawahs stumbled on 55 for four in the ninth over. Phillips, who struck five fours and a six, put on 22 with Imran Khan (10) for the fifth wicket which appeared to be steadying the innings but both perished in another cluster of wickets that saw three wickets tumble for one run in the space of 11 balls. The visitors

needed Lewis’s fireworks at the end – he took 17 runs from the final over – to get up to their eventual total. In reply, Tridents managed just two runs from the first two overs before Alex Hales (16) responded with two sixes off Worker’s leftarm spin in the third over but perished in the following over to a diving catch by Englishman Jade Dernback at backward square off 20-year-old left-arm spinner Zahir Khan. When Justin Greaves (6) and JP Duminy (3) fell in successive overs, the scoring rate had slowed to a trickle at just over 4-⅕ an over to leave Tridents going nowhere at 43 for three in the ninth over. Jonathan Carter injected some urgency into the innings with 17 off 15 balls, posting 31 with Charles who counted three fours but Springer struck in successive overs to remove both in a devastating 27-ball period which saw five wickets tumble for 16 runs. On 90 for eight at the start of the 18th over, the game was Tallawahs’ for the taking, and Smith held his nerve to ensure there was no Tridents comeback

Priyanna Ramdhani lands Badminton Scholarship at Olds College GUYANA’S badminton ace Priyanna Ramdhani has gained a Badminton Scholarship at the Olds

College, Alberta, Canada and will represent her College Badminton Team BRONCOS.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday September 25, 2019) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: 1. Warriors vs Tallawahs 2. Chris Gayle Today’s Quiz: 1. Who is Nicholas Pooran's first 'stumping victim' in CPL 2019? 2. In which CPL season not a single century was scored? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Priyanna, the country’s National and Caribbean champion, will also be studying for a Diploma in Business and Sports Management. The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) in a release stated that they’re “quite pleased that this opportunity came at a time when Priyanna can develop her game further and is only heading in one direction, which is, playing in the Olympics which we know with all her great performances that her ambition will one day materialise.” Ramdhani’s recent Classic performance was just a month ago when she was crowned Triple Champion at the Carebaco International Open Championships held in Barbados. Head coach of Broncos, Mary Smith, who drafted

Ramdhani noted, according to the GBA, “Priyanna is a force on the courts, winning a triple crown at the Caribbean games this past year, and ranked #1 in Guyana.” Smith said, “Priyanna has grown up with badminton since she was a young girl having her father as her coach and her brother as a team mate. Priyanna has a champion’s heart on and off the court. Her positive attitude, determination, commitment to her studies, and support of her team mates exemplify what it is to be a Bronco student athlete. Priyanna also has her sights on the Olympics and we are here to help her achieve her dream. Olds College Broncos badminton team is thrilled to have Priyanna join the team this season.”

Priyanna Ramdhani

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Chandrika, Montfort star in Vikings Super 9 triumph By Frederick Halley

TORONTO, Canada – Led by fine batting performances from former Guyana and West Indies opener Rajendra Chandrika and current Canadian all-rounder Mark Montfort, Vikings retained the Toronto & District Super 9 title with an easy six-wicket victory over archrivals Centurions in last Sunday’s final, played at Maple Leaf Cricket Club ground, King City. The game, reduced to 36 overs because of a damp pitch, saw Centurions restricted to 176 for eight and Vikings reaching the required target with five overs to spare. Chandrika, who is aiming to regain his place in the Guyana team, stroked a fluent 60 off 70 balls, which included four fours, two fives and a six. The stocky right-hander, who batted at number three, shared in two

important partnerships after Vikings lost experienced opener Rayyan Pathan (12) with only 13 runs on the board in the second over. The second-wicket partnership between Chandrika and opener Marvin Small (32) yielded 61 runs while the Enterprise-born batsman added a further 98 for the third wicket with his Guyana-born teammate Montfort whose 48 off 52 balls was laced with eight fours. By the time Chandrika and Montfort were dismissed within 14 runs of each other, both aiming to finish off the win in a hurry, Vikings were well in sight of victory which was duly achieved with skipper Royston Crandon and Raj Nannan on 16 and two undefeated, respectively. There was one wicket each for Ruvindu Gunasekera, Balaji Rao, Raymond Byone and Atiba Alert for 23, 28, 34 and 48 runs respectively. Earlier, Centurions

Players and supporters of Vikings celebrate their Super 9 championship win.

started disastrously with former Guyana Under-19 fast bowler Jeremy Gordon sending back opener Vidhu Adhihetty and number three batsman Mehrab Hossain for golden ducks in the first over with a mere three runs on the board. It took a brave innings of 70 from Pathirana Dhanuka

to bring some respectability to the innings. Dhanuka, who batted at number four, and struck three fours and two sixes, shared in several useful partnerships before he went via run-out off the final delivery of the innings. He added 60 for the eighth wicket with Atiba Alert (20 with two fours) to resurrect the in-

nings from 116 for seven in the 19th over to the eventual 176 for eight after 36. Gordon ended with two for 46 off seven overs while Montfort completed a fine all-round performance with two for 50, also from seven. Crandon, Nannan and former Guyana Under-19 skipper Eugene LaFleur chipped

in with one wicket each. Vikings advanced to the final after their semi-final encounter against Victoria Park was rained out the previous weekend. Based on T&D playing conditions, there are no rain days for semifinals; hence the team with the highest points during the season will advance to the final. Centurions defeated JB Masters in their semi-final clash. In last year’s final, Vikings inflicted a huge 116run defeat on JB Masters to end a 21-year drought, although they were declared joint-champions in the 2017 controversial final versus Centurions - a decision that did not go down well with executives and players of the club. Vikings’ long-standing president Bhowan Persaud praised his charges for a fantastic display, not only in the final but also for their outstanding performances throughout the 2019 season.

Competitors from Suriname Heritage Games 2019 Archery competition a success ‘likely’ for 1320 Heat re-match

Surinamese competition could be a major boost to the 1320 Heat rematch.

THE upcoming 1320 Heat rematch drag racing event could have the added boost of competitors from Suriname. A source close to the hosts, Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), confirmed that with the recent announcement that the Guyana-Suriname ferry service is up and running there is a real possibil-

ity of having the longtime supporters here. The source said, “We have been in talks with the Surinamese since the International Drag race meet and they were interested in coming. However, the ferry service was an issue then.” “This time around, the service will be back and there are already talks of guys showing interest in

coming here.” The source, however, said that they are awaiting word from their Surinamese counterparts, with their involvement expected. Still, with less than a month to go before the event, drivers have begun their test and tune-up for the event that is regarded as the ‘last chance’ to prove the worth of their cars. In addition, the club has also announced that one hour will be set aside for the ‘callouts’ segment, where competitors can choose against whom they want to race. The absence of this segment at the last event meant several competitors permanently stalled proceedings to race specific opponents. This time, those competitors will have a chance to lock in their requests prior to race day in order to run within that allotted time segment. The 1323 Heat re-match is billed for October 20

THE culmination of a two-day competition of traditional archery saw archers battle it out for top honours at the Indigenous Heritage Games 2019 on Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, at the Everest ground. Among the more than 60 registrants were members from De Chief Archery Club team of Mainstay in Region 2, and the Archery Rupununi team from Region 9. The day’s shooting began at 12:30hrs on Saturday with the ranking rounds and by the day’s end saw archers qualify in six categories. Sunday’s event began with the finals for the Cadet Females U-12 with Marisha Melville (Region 4) gaining 1st place, Aliya Melville (Region 4) in 2nd place and Anjalie Adams (Region 7) in 3rd place. The Cadet Males U-12 were next and were dominated by Region Two’s Ravedo Kanhai in 1st, Robeno Kanhai second and Stephon Pearson third. Moving on to the Youth Males 13-17,

Vlysses Edwards, who is confined to a wheelchair, caught in action competing for Region 3.

only 2 boys competed with McLee George gaining 1st place and Bert Paul in 2nd place. The Youth Females 1317 resulted in 1st place going to Sarah Fredericks (Region 2), Serena Clenkian in 2nd and Beyonce Dundas 3rd (both of Region 4). In the Adult Women 18+, Ausilda Paulin (Region 9) gained 1st place, while Rushell Dundas (Region 4) came in 2nd and Brenette Gordon (Region 3) came in 3rd. And in the final category Adult Men 18+, Alex Pearson (Region 2) shot to 1st place over Jude Edwin (Region 8) who came in 2nd and Aubrey

DeSouza (Region 8) in 3rd. The trophy and cash prizes, provided by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affair, were handed out to the winners of the six categories by Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Valerie Garrido Lowe, Archery Guyana’s president Gamal Khan and Archery Guyana’s head coach Nicholas Hing. Archery Guyana is pleased for the fifth year to have partnered with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs for another grand weekend of archery at the Indigenous Heritage Games.

Coach Erwyn Smith (second from left) and lifter Runita white (centre) having returned from Uruguay pose with Ed Caesar, (extreme left) President of the GAPLF, Merano Isaacs (second from right) of the National Sports Commission and David Gomes (extreme right) committee member of GAPLF.

Powerlifting team exceeded expectations – coach Smith

… racked up 91 medals - 38 gold, 34 silver and 19 bronze

Bumrah out of SA Tests with stress fracture JASPRIT Bumrah, India’s No.1 fast bowler, has been ruled out of the Test series against South Africa, which begins in Visakhapatnam on October 2. Bumrah has suffered a “minor stress fracture in his lower back,” according to a BCCI press release. The injury came to light “during a routine radiological screening.” Umesh Yadav will replace Bumrah in India’s Test squad. The emergence of Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami as India’s first-choice fast-bowling combination has reduced Umesh’s opportunities of late, limiting him to only five Tests since the start of 2018. In his second-to-last Test, however, he picked up a career-best match-haul of

10 for 133 against West Indies in Hyderabad. Bumrah’s injury is a significant blow to India. Since his Test debut in January 2018, he has quickly established himself as one of the world’s most dangerous fast bowlers, picking up 62 wickets in 12 Test matches at an average of 19.24. He already has five-wicket hauls in each of the four tours he has been on - South Africa, England, Australia and the West Indies - and the series against South Africa was to be his first at home. This is the second time Bumrah has had to miss Tests due to injury. A thumb injury, picked up during a T20I against Ireland in Malahide, forced him to miss the first half of India’s tour of England last year, including the first two Tests. The stress fracture,

though, will worry India a little more since it was not sustained on the field of play. India have been mind-

ful of Bumrah’s workload, resting him from the limited-overs legs of their tours of Australia, New Zealand

and the West Indies earlier this year. Some, though, believe it will help Bumrah’s fitness to play as much cricket as possible. “Bumrah should play as many games as possible, I always endorse that,” the former India quick Zaheer Khan told The Indian Express when asked what the best way to preserve Bumrah would be. “More matches you play, more experience

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you get. “That bowling rhythm and fitness is very important. You have to strike that right balance. “The way Bumrah has evolved in such a short span of time has been remarkable. He is a thinking bowler. You can achieve such success, when you keep improving, keep thinking, keep upgrading.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

Jasprit Bumrah celebrates a wicket.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2019