Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_11_16_2019 by Guyana Chronicle

SATURDAY 16th November, 2019

The last hurdle No.105823

― AFC, APNU to decide on 60:40 ratio Monday

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A section of the massive gathering at the annual Courts Christmas Tree Light Up on Friday (Adrian Narine photo)

Courts ushers 02 in festive season

Cannot be business as usual

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― Dr. Bynoe tells private sector representatives as Guyana prepares for first oil

Demerara offshore cashing in on O&G sector

AFC ‘battle ready’ for 2020 elections

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Courts ushers in the festive season

THE annual Courts Christmas Tree Light Up attracted scores of children and their parents on Main Street, last evening. They were all happy and excited for the kick start of Christmas.

Santa and Mrs Claus

Programme hosts Calvin Burnette and Tamika Henry kept the crowd lively throughout the annual event. The gathering was treated to cultural performances from the National School of Dance, Lerone Souvenir;

Euphoria Dance Group and local singing sensation, Jumo Primo, who brought the Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine into his performance. While some were most

A section of the crowd at Courts Christmas Tree Light Up on Friday

excited to see the trees light up, others were more excited for the arrival of Santa and

his team of characters. Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine did the illumination of the trees, then

ly look forward to an evening of clean family fun and it is a major hit for the children who enjoy the show.

Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine â€˜Stirring the potâ€™ with Soca King, Jumo Primo

the entire crowd went in a happy uproar for the arrival of the truck filled with characters. The children flocked the stage and started dancing and playing in the confetti; everyone chimed in to enjoy the festive celebration. The Christmas Three light up has become a tradition for many Guyanese families with thousands of persons coming to the event every year. Friends and fami-

Interim Managing Director, Ann-Marie Waters, said that every year Courts selects eight charity groups from across Guyana and donates hundreds of gifts during this season. Additionally, the company spreads love, joy and peace to its valued customers through its annual road show. This year, the road show will begin today and culminate on November 25.

The last hurdle

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

― AFC, APNU to decide on 60:40 ratio Monday

By Lisa Hamilton

THE 60:40 ratio within the Cummingsburg Accord for the allocation of parliamentary, ministerial and regional positions is the only matter to be decided upon by the coalition partners and the Alliance For Change (AFC) when they hold a final meeting on Monday. At a press conference on Friday, AFC Executive Member, Dominic Gaskin said the party is not looking to “score points” against its partner, but aims to simply get what it deserves. He is positive that this time around, the deadline will not pass without favourable agreement. Under the old Cummingsburg Accord, which brought the AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) together on February 14, 2015, APNU was allocated 60 per cent of the seats won by the government in the National Assembly, while the remaining 40 per cent went to the AFC. However, as scheduled,

renegotiations on the Cummingsburg Accord began recently, and this saw the parties ironing out several matters, including the muchdeliberated-upon prime ministerial candidacy.

He further stated that the AFC believes that Ramjattan brings “a good balance” to Presidential Candidate, President David Granger, and has been a strong leader of the AFC over the years.

AFC Executive Member, Dominic Gaskin

strength” of the AFC. While Gaskin said the party is not unmoving when it comes to the 60:40 allocation, should less be offered to the AFC, there must be something else put in its place that

is what we want, and there is no discussion.’ We are flexible; we are a mature political party. However, in any negotiation, we do get to a point when I think both sides realise that if we can’t go any

PNC/R Chair Volda Lawrence

(Adrian Narine photos) At its national conference Meanwhile, regarding earlier in the year, the AFC the final matter to be decided identified its Leader, Khemraj upon, there seems to be a Ramjattan as the prime minis- disagreement among the coterial candidate. alition members on whether Gaskin said the AFC’s the 60:40 ratio should remain. naming of Ramjattan as such A proposal is reportedly is in keeping with the Cum- on the table for a 70:30 ramingsburg Accord, which is tio, based on the “perceived still in effect. and real reduced electoral

the AFC is willing to accept. “We’re not looking to score points against our partners; we’re looking for an acceptable outcome, and we have a fairly good idea of what’s acceptable to the AFC,” he said. He added: “This is a negotiation, and we are not going in to it saying ‘This

further, it’s useless to proceed. We are not at that point right now. We anticipate that there will be an agreement by Monday.” In a prepared statement from the party, Gaskin had also hit home the importance of the Monday deadline, stating that it could “no longer be extended”.

and evaluation of the opportunities in the oil and gas sector, the company entered into the joint venture with CWSL from Trinidad and Tobago.” Samaroo added that, “Under this arrangement, we hope that we can add to the local content of the oil and gas sector through the various contracts that we would be entering into, and through the development of the human skills in the country to meet the standards required by the industry.” “Demerara Offshore will bring real value-added opportunities to Guyanese and the Guyana economy. Through our partnerships with world-leading products and service providers, Demerara Offshore will leverage substantial knowledge and expertise to develop Guyanese capacity. Demerara Offshore is in the final stages of negotiations with

KOS Kentintrol Valves out of the UK, and Jotun Paint” he further added. CEO of CWSL, Nigel

Bennett said, “This is a great opportunity for our two companies. In Trinidad and Tobago, given our long

Initially, AFC had hoped to sign off on the revised Cummingsburg Accord by November 10. And while he referred to a separate contesting of the 2020 elections as “an unlikely scenario”, Gaskin noted that the party is prepared, nonetheless, for the same. Apart from these points, Gaskin opted against “confirming too much” on the part that the negotiations are still ongoing. Meanwhile, over at a press conference of the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), Party Chair Volda Lawrence said the negotiations have proceeded well, with present hopes for a conclusion “very soon”. She declined to state whether Ramjattan had been chosen as the Prime Ministerial candidate. “I will say to you that the negotiations are in place, and it is a negotiation, and at the end of that negotiation, both parties will be speaking on all the matters, I’m quite certain, with the full media,” Lawrence said.

Demerara offshore launches with eyes on local content development

DEMERARA Distillers Limited (DDL), through its subsidiary Demerara Contractors and Engineering Limited (DCEL) and CWSL, on Friday, announced the establishment of an oil and gas services joint venture, Demerara Offshore Incorporated. Demerara Offshore will be providing a wide range of services to the oil and gas sector that include the development of a world-class shore base facility, welding and fabrication, electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, blasting and painting, specialized coating, non-destructive testing and inspection, valve repairs, pressure testing, waste management and disposal, catering, equipment rental, and human resource development. DCEL Chairman Komal Samaroo said that, “after very careful consideration

companies worldwide including ASCO and NSL, HB Rentals - a branch of Superior Energy of the USA,

DDL Chairman, Komal Samaroo and CWSL CEO, Nigel Bennett shake hands after the signing of an agreement. Vasudeo Singh, DDL Finance Controller and Darren Debideen, CWSL Chief Marketing Officer look on

industrial and oil experience, we have a lot to offer Guyana as our CARICOM family. We are delighted to support our lead partner DDL. This is an initiative for Guyana’s development and DDL has a long history of serving this country.” Bennett added, that “the efforts of Demerara Offshore will allow for the development of both the technologies and the human resources required for the development of the Guyana oil and gas industry. It is important that Guyanese themselves are trained and prepared to take the sector forward with Guyanese character.” Demerara Offshore is committed to making the cost of services for the oil and gas sector in Guyana more competitive through the development of Guyanese capacity and capability.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Envoy intimated by Trump during live testimony US President Donald Trump has attacked the former US ambassador to Ukraine, Marie Yovanovitch, on Twitter, in the middle of her testimony to the impeachment inquiry. “Everywhere Marie Yovanovitch went turned bad,” Mr Trump wrote. “She started off in Somalia, how did that go?” He said it was “a US President’s absolute right” to appoint ambassadors. Replying in real time, Ms Yovanovitch called it “very

intimidating”. Her response - at the invitation of hearing chairman Adam Schiff - was broadcast live during the televised testimony. Mr Schiff, the Democratic Chairman of the Intelligence Committee overseeing the impeachment inquiry, suggested the president’s tweets could be classed as witness intimidation. The White House later disputed that. “The tweet was not wit-

ness intimidation, it was simply the president’s opinion, which he is entitled to,” said spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham. The inquiry is currently investigating whether Mr Trump withheld US military aid to Ukraine in order to pressure the country’s new president to announce a corruption inquiry into former Vice President Joe Biden, now his rival for the US presidency. Mr Trump denies any wrongdoing and has branded the proceedings “presidential harassment”. Ms Yovanovitch was removed as ambassador to Kyiv in May, two months before a controversial phone call between Mr Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, which is now key to the inquiry.

A rough transcript of the call revealed that Mr Trump had urged President Zelensky to investigate discredited allegations against Mr Biden and his son Hunter, who sat on the board of a Ukrainian gas company. Responding directly to the president’s tweet, in which he appeared to blame her for upheaval in Somalia, Ms Yovanovitch replied: “I don’t think I have such powers, not in Mogadishu and Somalia and not in other places. “I actually think that where I’ve served over the years I and others have demonstrably made things better, you know, for the US as well as for the countries that I’ve served in.” In earlier closed-door testimony, Ms Yovanovitch alleged she had fallen victim to a smear campaign at the

hands of Mr Trump’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani. She said Mr Giuliani had worked to discredit her while attempting to push Ukraine into the anti-Biden investigations. On Friday, the former envoy accused the US state department - headed by Mike Pompeo - of failing to resist “foreign and corrupt interests” she said had “hijacked” America’s policy towards Ukraine. When Ms Yovanovitch left her post, she was replaced by Bill Taylor, the current acting ambassador to Ukraine. Mr Taylor has testified before the impeachment inquiry that a member of his staff overheard a telephone call in which the president inquired about “the investigations” into Mr Biden. In a break during the hearing, chairman Adam Schiff

called the president’s tweets about Ms Yovanovitch an effort to “chill” her and other witnesses who might come forward. He told reporters the ambassador had been “smeared” and “recalled for no reason”, and was now experiencing “witness intimidation in real-time by the president of United States”. Ken Starr, who served as special prosecutor during the impeachment of President Bill Clinton, said on Fox News that Mr Trump’s comments showed “extraordinarily poor judgement”. But Republicans rejected the intimidation claim. “The witness is testifying. She wouldn’t even have known about the quote, if Mr Schiff hadn’t read the tweet,” Representative Jim Jordan said. (BBC)

‘One in a million’ three antler deer spotted in US When retired US legislator Steve Lindberg stepped out of his front door with his camera on Monday, he was hoping to snap some wildlife for his Facebook page. Since 2012, he has uploaded a photo every day of wildlife in his native Michigan. He wasn’t too optimistic due to the winter weather driving many species towards warmer temperatures, so he was pleased when he spotted a river otter eating a fish on the ice. “I thought: ‘Oh jeez, I got my photo for the day,’” Mr Lindberg, 75, told the BBC. But as he strolled back to the car with his dog, he noticed a strange looking deer. “I have thousands of photos of white tailed deer but I immediately recognised that this one was unusual ... he had this little mess of antlers on top of his head,” he said. He took a few shots and drove home, thinking little of it. But when he uploaded the photos to his computer, he noticed something. “I went: ‘Wait a minute, this deer has three antlers!” he said. “I’d never seen one

Sat. November 16, 2019 - 05:30hrs ~07:00hrs

before.” Mr Lindberg was expecting to hit around “100 likes and a few comments” on Facebook but the post started to take off with intrigued members of the public analysing the rare photos. Large-animal veterinarian Steve Edwards told the Detroit Free Press that the deer was a “one-in-a-million” find. As is often the case on social media, not all of the attention has been positive, with some accusing Mr Lindberg of editing the image. He uploaded other photos to quash those allegations. “I’ve stopped reading what people are writing because I’ve been accused of photoshopping ... I’ve been told: ‘I want to know where it is because I want to kill it,’” he said. Mr Lindberg, who used to hunt but stopped years ago, has decided to keep the exact location of the deer a secret to protect it. When he returned later in the day, the deer was in the same spot. But the next day, he was nowhere to be seen. “He’s gone on to greener pastures, so to speak,” he said. (BBC)

Wednesday, NOV 13, 2019

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May 25, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Chile bows to protester demands for referendum Chile has announced it will hold a referendum on the country’s constitution following weeks of anti-government protests. Protesters are demanding social reforms and a change to the constitution which dates back to the pre-democracy era of the military leader, Augusto Pinochet. The vote will take place in April. At least 20 people have died and about 1,000 have been injured in protests that started over a hike in subway fares. The “Agreement for Peace and a New Constitution” was signed at midnight following long negotiations. The referendum will ask

Protesters are calling for social reforms and a change to the constitution (BBC)

voters if they want the constitution to be replaced. It will also ask voters who think it should be replaced to choose between three different bodies to draw up a new constitution. The options are a body of fully elected representatives, political appointees or an equal mix of both. The current constitution does not currently establish the state’s responsibility to provide healthcare and education, which are two demands from the protesters. Chile has been rocked by unrest over the past month with riots, arson and looting. The country’s independent National Human Rights Institute says it has brought

legal action over 179 cases, including alleged murders, sexual violence and torture by the military police. On Thursday, Chilean singer Mon Laferte bared her breasts in a red carpet protest at the Latin Grammy awards in the US. She walked the red carpet and uncovered her chest emblazoned with the words “In Chile they torture, rape and kill”. She has been a supporter of the anti-government protests in the country. Mon Laferte was one of several artists at the Latin Grammys who spoke about the current political climate in Latin American countries. (BBC)

Venezuelan ex-spy chief’s disappearance ‘a scandal’ The US envoy for Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, has called the disappearance of a Venezuelan former intelligence chief from Spain “embarrassing”. Hugo Carvajal disappeared after a court in Spain ruled he should be extradited to the US, where he is accused of drug trafficking. Spanish police have not been able to locate him in since Friday. Mr Carvajal has in the past said that he does not trust the US justice system. Gen Carvajal, 59, was the head of military counter-intelligence from July 2004 until December 2011, when Hugo Chávez was president of Venezuela. In 2011, US prosecutors accused him of personally co-ordinating a US-bound shipment of more than five tonnes of cocaine from Venezuela to Mexico. The indictment also accused him of being on the payroll of a Colombian drug lord and having links to

Colombia’s Marxist Farc rebels. He has repeatedly denied having any links to drug traffickers or the Farc, and says the charges are politically motivated. In 2014, he spent three months in Aruba as Venezuela’s consul general on

a diplomatic passport. He was released and was given a hero’s welcome by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. After another spell as military counter-intelligence chief, he became a politician for the governing socialist

But in February 2019, Gen Carvajal turned against the government of President Maduro and backed opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s leader. He also urged the military to switch sides, which prompted the Venezuelan

Republic and on to Spain, where he was arrested in April at the request of US authorities. Prosecutors appealed against the ruling and on Friday, Spain’s highest court overturned the lower court’s decision. But when police

Mr Carvajal was a close confidante of Hugo Chávez but he recently turned against President Maduro (BBC photo) Hugo Carvajal was freed from prison in September (BBC photo)

the Dutch Caribbean island. During that time, he was detained by the authorities there at the request of the US state department. But a judge on the island ruled that his arrest was illegal because the general held

party and was elected to the National Assembly in 2016.

government to strip him of his rank. He fled Venezuela on a boat to the Dominican

went to Mr Carvajal’s home to detain him, he was not there. Spanish police have

confirmed that they are searching for him. His lawyer told the New York Times that she did not know where her client was. The US envoy for Venezuela mocked the Spanish authorities. “They went to his home and, what a surprise, he wasn’t there,” Mr Abrams told reporters. “Carvajal’s disappearance is quite embarrassing for the Spanish government,” he added. The US authorities have in the past said they believe Mr Carvajal holds incriminating information on President Maduro. The US and the government of President Maduro have been at loggerheads for years, with the former imposing tough sanctions on the latter. (BBC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

The Good Life for All T HE theme and objective of ‘A Good Life for All’ has been associated with the Coalition under the leadership of Brigadier David Granger, ever since that former head of the Guyana Defence Force, author, historian, President and statesman entered Guyana’s political arena. That noble goal, President Granger believes, is the reason for the existence of his administration. The president has emphasised that fact on numerous occasions. Certainly, every right-thinking person would most definitely agree with such a self-evident philosophy. The president has said that the quality of life of a person is “a measure of that citizen’s satisfaction with their life.” His Excellency elaborated that that measure of satisfaction is determined by numerous factors and experiences. Those factors include a person’s state of health, levels of independence, community participation, personal development, physical and material wellbeing, recreation activities, interpersonal relationships, and availability of social support. An examination of that list of factors immediately reveals that a person’s satisfaction boils down to two components: The quality of service that government provides, and, basically, a citizen’s financial security. Since President Granger has committed his administration to providing the highest quality

of government services, and he is obviously delivering on that commitment, a person’s satisfaction with life, at the basic level, simply depends on how financially secure that person feels. In even more simple terms: Does one have sufficient money to spend? Following that line of reasoning to its logical conclusion, a good life depends on having a secure, well-paying job, or, if one cannot work, having access to enough financial resources to enjoy a satisfactory, decent, dignified and happy life. In other words, having sufficient money to be comfortable. That is what the good life is all about. The fact that President Granger continues to deliver on his promise of a good life is evident. His Excellency’s focus on educating young people in order for them to be able to obtain good jobs is a major part of that approach. The administration’s attention to the building of more schools, the upgrading or establishment of information technology ‘labs’, the improvement of vocational training, the establishment of a modern curriculum, and similar initiatives, are intended to equip persons, particularly Guyana’s youth, with the skills necessary to get good jobs so as to have good lives. The establishment of a Ministry of Business by the David Granger government was primarily intended to facilitate and stimulate entrepreneurship and direct investments, again, creating more,

better-paying jobs. In 2015, before the APNU+AFC Coalition was elected, the Old Age Pension was a meager $13,000; today, under the Granger government, it is well over $20,000. This translates into more money in the pockets of our senior citizens, as, they, too, should have good lives. President Granger, much to his credit, has demonstrated that he always formulates policies, and enacts initiatives within a comprehensive philosophical framework, unlike the previous People’s Progressive Party (PPP)’s ad hoc, confused way of doing things. The president has clearly stated that the realisation of a good life rests on seven pillars. Those pillars are: Public trust in government, an administration that works in the public interest, the pursuit of a ‘green’ path to development, investment in infrastructure, enhanced public security, better government services, and, finally, leadership that works in the public good. President Granger’s comprehensive approach to enacting programmes that benefit all citizens, regardless of where they live, is what government is there for. While the administration continues to provide opportunities for all Guyanese to enjoy a good life, it is up to us to take maximum advantage of those opportunities. It is also up to citizens to ensure that those opportunities are not taken away from us.

They were afraid to speak out ― so they took the pittance and zipped their mouths

Dear Editor,

S would be expected, the political haters and the political grudgers have commenced their usual anti-national putridity via Facebook, in the aftermath of President Granger’s delightful announcement of the best wages and salaries increases ever, for public servants. In fact, there is a statement about workers deserving ‘living wages’ mentioned, which is laughable since it is contradictory for all that the PPP/C regime would have done in denying public servants a more than decent living being emitted from either the lost PPP/C political adherents, or their leaders. Whichever it is, it reflects an absence of honesty, and a downright descent into a cesspool of ignorance which continues to have no relevance in the new Guyana that has been emerging since after May, 2015. These sadly, misguided and mischievous waste-of-time social media users must be reminded that their party had over two decades to treat public servants with the respect and dignity which this key category of national workers should have had. Instead, we are all aware as to the policy, deliberate, of their then government which applied the politically backward ethnic strategy of ensuring a mostly African public service be kept at starvation wages levels. The Christmas sop of the annual five per cent was design-

edly insulting for its contemptuous presumption of keeping Public Service workers quiet. It was seen as a method of perpetuating poverty, ensuring that there was never to be adequate remuneration for closing the socio-economic gap which exists among some sections of the Guyanese people, in this instance, the vital segment of the public service that is tasked with delivering vital public services to all Guyanese. An example of this vindictive strategy was the all-out assault on the trade unions, rendering them toothless by contracting State workers directly to the State, and refusing to engage these worker representative bodies in any meaningful discussion towards the process of collective bargaining. Editor, this was clearly a grand design of conspiratorial proportions against the workers of this nation; all the workers, inclusive of even PPP/C supporters, many of whom are within the public service. What must be further underlined is that there were more than enough financial resources within the coffers of the PPP/C regime to give public servants adequate wages and salaries. Thus, for years, this deserving section of the nation’s workers were made to eke out a miserable existence on hand-to-mouth wages. It is a known fact, very, very practical, that in highpriced societies such as Guyana, no amount of wages are really sufficient to cope; but one must accord the President Granger coalition administration every bit of commendation for lifting the national minimum wages to a 77 per cent in

just four years, from $39,000 to the just announced line of $70,000, especially given the background of the GuySuCo collapse and ensuing crises, compliments of the PPP/C criminal mismanagement, in addition to the numerous attempts at undermining the national development programme of the government. GuySuCo saddled the coalition government with a total bill of a reported $42B for rescue, in the form of subsidy and termination of employment payments. One must therefore agree with Finance Minister Winston Jordan when he echoed the fact that had such a sum been available to the government, workers’ emoluments would have been far better than it is. Of course, he is correct in his assessment. Editor, being unconscionable should be deemed a national offence, in a country where it has assumed epidemic proportions, among PPP/C supporters. One is certain that in the coming 2020 BUDGET, and with the imminent flow of oil and gas, that the minimum wage will be taken to a new plateau, considered desirable, which these suddenly interested-in-the-welfare-of-public servants fans never demanded of their PPP/C when it held the reins of governance. They were afraid to speak out, so they took the pittance and zipped their mouths. Regards, Carla Mendonca

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Dr. Jagan had warned PPP members not to be attracted by Walter Rodney Dear Editor,

ECENT publications show the existence of different accounts of the same events, centering on the Commission of Inquiry into the death of Walter Rodney. A speech made by Dr. Patricia Rodney, Walter’s widow and now head of their family, sparked responses. As I argue in this letter, there is a righteous way of closing this matter, if it is not to run for another 39 years. The first came from the Working People’s Alliance and, in response to it, came one from the PPP’s parliamentary Whip, Ms. Gail Teixeira. Ms. Teixeira’s letter served her party’s cause, as she intended, and also raised issues. First, I question, in passing, two things that she said. She claims that the Working People’s Alliance had said that it was accumulating arms. Up to now, this statement has been reported as coming from Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, a co-leader of the Working People’s Alliance, and not from the WPA. Her language is not an error of words, but it seems to me by choice. Roopnaraine made that statement while speaking in a very personal capacity with a film-maker. I have written about a very provocative statement made by the PPP General Secretary and leader, Mr. Jagdeo, but I have not interpreted it as being made by the PPP. Even when there is a maximum leader, as in the case of the PPP, the distinctions should, in fairness, be observed. Next, Teixeira claims that the PPP leader, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, in public and in private, showed a high regard and respect for Walter Rodney. This was true up to a point, but it did not last. During the last year of Walter Rodney’s life, the PPP leader personally warned some of his younger comrades against being attracted by Walter Rodney. We have gone over this before. After Rodney, **during the 1980 General Election campaign, actively boycotted by the WPA, PPP leaders let loose. Dr. Jagan, speaking at a public meeting at Grove, East Bank Demerara, openly jeered at Walter Rodney. A brief report of his comments appeared in the Chronicle, and he denied the report. The next Sunday, the Sunday Chronicle published a longer word-forword report of Dr. Jagan’s comments, and he was silent. At Leonora, in the same campaign, Mrs. Janet Jagan told the crowd: “Ask Sidney King what he did in Wismar in 1964.” Aware that the unfortunate Wismar events had been the subject of a Commission appointed by the PPP, I invited Mrs. Jagan, in writing, to disclose, without fear of court proceedings, my alleged offences. She was silent. I am not writing as a neu-

tral observer; because I am not. Unlike many, I have supported the Rodney political mission, not because of his scholarship and celebrity, but because of his personal sincerity and his solidarity with sufferers at all levels up to the time of his removal. I disagreed with the Rodney family on one issue: That is, when I refused to sign their petition to the Government of South Africa to deny the late President Burnham the Oliver Tambo Award. I have stated privately and publicly that if nothing is done to undo the injustices of the Rodney Inquest of 1988, and the trial of Donald Rodney in 1982, I will be available to approach the Courts of Law to deliberate on these processes and pronounce on them. I should now add that the inquest into the fatal shooting of Ohene Koama on November 18, 1979 was such a farce that it ended without the police officer, who witnessed the circumstances of the shooting, even attending the inquest. He was absent from each fixture held near the victim’s car in the Eve Leary compound, on the excuse that he was in Cuba for medical treatment. President Granger, as a mature person new to the political arena, was in a difficult situation when, on becoming President, the party he led apparently began to press for the immediate closure of the Inquiry. Those who miss this point are missing a lot. The PPP had, in mounting the Inquiry, treated the opposition parties as unworthy of being consulted. It ventured explanations which are not in keeping with parliamentary democracy, but tend to high-handedness. It was the National Assembly that carried a resolution in the year 2006, authorising a Commission of Inquiry. The PPP had abstained on the vote because the word “assassination”, in its original motion, had been wisely amended to read “death”, out of respect for a guaranty of fairness. This treatment of elected parties as things of a lower status angered the PNC in particular which, assisted by Dr. Roopnaraine, had overcome its decades-long opposition to such an Inquiry. Under the Commissions of Inquiry Act (Ch. 19:03), it is the President who creates a Commission, appoints the members, authorises the Terms of Reference, and sets the rules governing the Commission. The need for consultation is not written into the Act, but an enlightened political culture will advise it. The proof of the pudding is the eating. As the hearings of the Commission proceeded, it became known that quite apart from the terms of reference and the written rules, the Government of Guyana, not the Commission, had entered into an agreement with a Guyanese journalist living abroad to write a book about the pro-

ceedings of the Commission for a fee of US$1.4 million and other costs (to be verified). To me, this agreement was an act of political corruption, intended to use tax payers’ money for PPP political propaganda. As the rumor circulated, the journalist in question announced in the Government’s Guyana Chronicle that he had entered into a contract with the Government of Guyana to produce such a book. It is known that he came to Guyana, attended hearings, and selected portions of the testimony of witnesses to publish in the Government’s Guyana Chronicle. This is perhaps too small a sum of money for the honorable PPP Whip to call to account. There is no authority whatever in the Commission created by the President for the Government to enter into such a contract. If the Commission did not make this decision, the Cabinet member who made it in the name of the Government was turning a public treasury into a party account. In fact, in the Guyana Chronicle of July 4, 2014, Mr. Samaroo, the journalist in question, denied being procured by the Commission, and disclosed that he had a contract with the Office of the President. It was a brazen act. The public will recall the tension created when it became known that the Commission would not have the time it desired to finish its work. You can tell a seamstress or a tailor that you must have your job by 5:00 p.m. But you cannot tell a surgeon how long to take for a surgery, or a panel of judges to finish their deliberations within a timeframe not chosen by them. You can give these orders, but then you must take responsibility for any deficiency. The Chairman of the Commission felt impelled to speak out in these circumstances. He said, among other things, that the new Government had the right to close down the Commission, or to issue a time limit. He gave instances in which new Governments had closed down the work of a Commission. He added, however, that if the Commission did not have enough time to finish its work, the fairness of the report could be affected. Previously, he had announced that he was assigning special parts of the report to particular members. Members of the public will have various opinions about whether the Commission had enough time to study, with the required care, the drafts of each of its members. All in all, although the PPP, in mounting the Commission, filled a gap in the human rights and democratic process, the chief beneficiary of the Commission was not the aggrieved Rodney family, but the PPP. The ruling party was able to delight itself with the testimony that revealed and brought back to public attention the numerous violations of law and order,

and of the political process in the period reviewed. Many citizens do not know that the Chairman of the Commission, in answer to a question at a forum in Barbados, said, “It would have been better if the Opposition had been consulted on the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the Commission.” He did not expand this answer he made to a question put to him. The TOR contained a direction to identify “the intellectual author” of the crime that removed Walter Rodney from among us. The quoted phrase originated with Fidel Castro after the bombing of Letelier of Chile on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC. It was placed in the TOR to show how loyal the PPP is to the rhetoric of celebrities. Notably absent from the TOR was any reference, direct or indirect, to redress for the losses imposed on the Rodney family with its very young children. The consideration of redress could not be absent from the President’s mind. In 2012, there were mass

demonstrations in Linden, and the police opened fire, which resulted in the unfortunate deaths of three citizens and injuries to many. It is noteworthy that the TOR of the Wolfe Commission of 5, appointed after this incident, contained a direction to consider necessary compensation for the victims. No such direction appeared in the TOR of the Rodney Commission. **Finally, the PPP Whip, Ms. Teixeira, has gone on record in her reply to the WPA by reminding us that she attempted to move a motion, asking that the report be sent to a Select Committee of the National Assembly for scrutiny. Sending the COI report, already signed without dissent by the three Commissioners to a Select Committee, would have resulted in more talk, more paper, more minutes, without touching the outstanding issues. The PPP, as well as the WPA and others present at the debate of the report, could have moved a motion, especially after the 2012 Linden Commission, requesting Parliament to ap-

point an expert committee of jurists and financiers to study the highly relevant issue of redress, such as compensation, in the light of the involvement of the State in the tragic event of June 13, 1980. The quality of the PPP’s concern is also revealed in the fact that instead of directing its legal officers to seek remedies through the courts, they offered Donald Rodney a pardon which for him would mean an admission of guilt. Without taking legal advice, I am persuaded that means are open to people of good will to find appropriate means for just pursuit of the outstanding issues of redress and justice. In addition to all the wrongs they had suffered, I am willing to argue, subject to informed wisdom, that the Rodney family has now been treated differently from other families of adjudged victims of State violence, contrary to constitutional guaranties against discrimination. Yours respectfully, Eusi Kwayana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

‘Boxing Board’ deeply regrets the passing of Dr. Carl Max Hanoman Dear Editor,

E acknowledge and salute his enormous dedication to the development of the

sport of professional boxing in Guyana over nearly four decades. Our records indicate that Dr. Hanoman served with great distinction from May 1, 1987 to the

time of his demise as the Chief Medical Officer of the Board. He presided at ringside for over 156 boxing cards involving 797 boxers, and served on the executive under

three consecutive administrations. His contribution to the important medical aspect of professional boxing, as best as we are aware, is un-

paralleled in the local history of the sport. His unmistakable and accustomed presence at ringside will be truly missed. The members of the Guyana Boxing

of Control offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Hanoman.

est and deliberately untruthful assertion was made by that party’s General Secretary during his weekly rant that the PPP tries to pass off as a press conference. Editor, I am confident that Guyanese know better than to accept or believe such lies. After

all, the PPP’s record of deceit, dishonesty, misinformation, and attempts at division speaks volumes about that party’s total lack of credibility. Editor, all things considered, one simply expects the PPP to lie. Editor, with regard to disenfranchisement,

may I remind that it is the PPP that encouraged its supporters to boycott the registration process. That boycott may have disenfranchised many young voters. Further, the PPP, by insisting on an election based on a flawed list, is clearly attempting to get into power by dishonest

means. Evidently, one cannot have credible elections if the list on which the entire process is based is flawed. The PPP’s hypocrisy is now on open display. The PPP is accusing the Coalition of something of which that dishonest party is clearly guilty. Editor,

I need not say more; the evidence is right in front of the eyes of every Guyanese. And, I am sure that my Guyanese brothers and sisters can see right through the untrustworthy PPP.

Regards, Peter Abdool

Coalition not about disenfranchising anyone Dear Editor,

EFERENCE is made to the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) claim that the APNU+AFC Coalition administration is attempting to disenfranchise Guyanese voters. The dishon-

Regards, Mark DaCosta

The Head of State must not be burdened ― with those who believe that their ugly way is the right way Editor,

T IS now abundantly clear to me that the phrase ‘Something is rotten in the State of Denmark,’ taken from Shake speare’s Hamlet, unhappily, now applies to my beloved country Guyana. On a daily basis, citizens call or come to see me. They are of all ages and groups. They call on me, hoping I can help to untangle the bureaucratic knots which seem to characterise many of our government and corporate agencies.

From the Engineer Department of the Municipality, the Registry, GPL, GTT, CH&PA and some post offices, where occasionally they run out of funds to pay Pensioners and Vouchers. A few weeks ago, at one of the above offices, the Officer-in-Charge, in the presence of my Assistant, asked if I had given the Officer dealing with a matter anything. This spoke volumes. Of course, the slothfulness of some aspects of our judicial system is now taken for granted. I have been involved in the public sector since the mid-1950s. I became

General Secretary of the People’s National Congress in 1962, and, from 1968, functioned in senior positions for two generations. It appears to me that our society, as from the closing years of the 20th Century has become so corrupted that in many areas, things don’t happen unless some bureaucrat receives a ‘small piece.’ This Sad, Sorry, Situation requires surgery by President Granger himself. Some bureaucrats are giving this Government a bad name, and if I may borrow a phrase from

one of our enduring earlier ministers and super-patriot Sydney King, in 1953 quipped, “This confounded nonsense must stop.” People should not have to wait months to have their plans processed at City Hall, wait for months to obtain a meter from GPL, turn up at a Post Office and be told that there is no money; I witnessed this first hand last Wednesday at a Post Office. I heard the Teller informed the lady who was standing in the line ahead of me at 11:02 a.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2019, that

there was no money. Some days I feel a sense of frustration. People who know me are aware that I am not easily frustrated. But when calls to very high officials are not returned, and you have difficulty communicating with senior people, it is very frustrating. I know we have the Ombudsman, but with the number of complaints I have received at my home, and the television programme, ‘Voice of the People,’ suggest that the President may wish to consider setting up some Council of Youth and Elder to

pursue hour by hour, day by day, legitimate complaints. May I say this, there are still some Agencies and Departments that provide prompt and courteous services. In an earlier correspondence, I mentioned some of those Agencies that perform with excellence, such as the Immigration Department among others. The Head of State must not be burdened with those who believe that their ugly way is the right way. Yours, Hamilton Green

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

‘Re-discover the Ancient County’ ...Canje Creek to be promoted as tourism destination as photographic competition launched

THE Regional Tourism Committee (RTC), in the East Berbice, Corentyne Region, (Region 6) recently launched a photographic competition in observance of Tourism Awareness Month 2019. The competition is open to all secondary school students and professional photographers from within the region. It entails photos submitted by the high schoolers on ‘Must see places in the ancient county’, while the professional photographers are expected to submit photos on ‘Natural scenery in the ancient county’. Co-chairperson for the RTC, Keisha Hamid said registration began on November 8, and will close on November 26, at 16:00 hours. For those students who wish to be part of the competition, Hamid explained they must register by liking

and sharing the Regional Tourism Committee-East Berbice-Corentyne’s Facebook Page, then subsequently posting their entries to the page for judging. The professional photographers must submit entries to the RTC at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Region 6; and enclose name, contact details, the photograph (in JPEG format) and a description of the national scenery depicted in the image. Hamid explained that prizes will be awarded at a public event including cash prizes, trophies and tokens and 20 students will be the designated tourism ambassadors. These students will return to their school and communities to create awareness of the local tourism industry. The winning photographs will be featured in the Regional Tourism Com-

mittee publications and posters. Over the past four days, the team has been visiting schools, across the region, to educate students on tourism in Berbice. Meanwhile, Travis Isaacs, the Chairman of the Committee, explained that the aim of the competition is to heighten awareness, in and outside of the region, of the tourism possibilities which exist in Berbice. It will also generate a bank of compelling tourism images available for use in tourism material and as part of décor in public spaces. “This project was selected so that we can link tourism with education in having the school children involved. For the professional photographers when they would have provided us with their work, we hope to utilise those images so if you go into a restaurant or hotel you

Co-chairpersons for the Regional Tourism Committee, Keisha Hamid [second from right] and Travis Issacs [right] along with Regional Executive Officer Kim Williams-Stephens at the launch of the competition

won’t see a picture of a foreign place but of natural scenery in Berbice,” Isaacs said. Meanwhile, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Kim Williams-Stephens said: “I am pleased with any project that is going to enhance the lives of persons within Berbice. The regional administration is happy to be a stakeholder in such activity. We know that through tourism our region can develop economically apart from relaxation it would be a means where persons can actually be gainfully employed and so, we would have strengthened communities and a strengthened region and of course a better Guyana.” The REO also noted that the competition opens avenues for future photographers, journalists and other exciting professions.

Additionally, a familiarisation tour to Canje Creek for travel influencers will take place on Saturday, November 16. Tour operators and other

travel providers will visit the area to experience its lush flora and fauna, and picturesque scenery to boost tourism activity in the area. (DPI)

Students of Berbice Educational Institute pay keen attention to a presentation

Co-chair of the committee Travis Isaacs interacts with students at the Berbice High School as they share knowledge on tourism

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday November 16, 2019

PNCR warns electorate about PPP

-- says chief opposition party has no interest in putting money in workers’ pockets THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) said that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) never had any interest in putting money in the workers’ pockets. According to the largest party in the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition, the PPP squandered billions of dollars, resulting in the crippling of the Guyana Sugar Corporation and had destroyed a number of manufacturing hubs across the country. The PNCR was, at the time, responding to the PPP’s criticism of the recent government announcement of the 9 and 8.5 per cent salary increases for public servants. The PNCR said it will always fight for the betterment of workers, even as the government works to reverse the many labour misfortunes caused by the People’s Progressive Party /Civic (PPP/C). “We must not forget the PPP’s track record of failure on jobs, salaries and education. Irfaan Ali and PPP are currently trying to whitewash their 23 years in office by making empty promises, telling lies and spreading disinformation,” warned Chairman of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Volda Lawrence, at the PNCR’s weekly press briefing on Friday. She added: “From 2010 to 2015, under the PPP, public servants’ wages grew less than ten percent. It is clear that the PPP had no interest of putting money in the workers’ pockets. In fact, the PPP kept salaries low and took money out of people’s pockets through higher taxes. It was the PPP that introduced a 16 percent VAT in 2007.” President Granger’s announcement of the salary increase, came on the heels of an earlier announcement by Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, who stated that the minimum basic salary in the public service increased from $64,200 to $70,000. All of the increases will be tax-free and will be retroactive to January 1, 2019.

“Under the leadership of David Granger we have made declared. significant strides towards achieving this and we will continue Lawrence noted that, during its tenure, the PPP made to do so in the years ahead. The PNCR, along with the Coali- several decisions that crippled critical areas of the economy tion partners in the APNU+AFC, are building and maintain- that provided jobs. ing critical infrastructure to support growth and drive “History has shown that at no point was protecting sustainable job creation,” Lawrence said. sugar workers’ jobs a priority for the dishonest PPP. It was the PPP that forced the closure of Diamond, The increase in the minimum wage represents LBI and Wales sugar estates. The PPP destroyed an overall increase of 77 per cent since the A Partthe manufacturing sector in Guyana and along with nership for National Unity/Alliance For Change it, jobs, and opportunities for the small man to earn (APNU+AFC) coalition took office. more. For 23 years the PPP and Irfaan Ali failed “When the Coalition APNU+AFC entered ofGuyanese, driving important industries to collapse fice in May 2015, the public servant minimum wage putting people’s livelihoods at risk and costing tens stood at a paltry $39,540. Prior to our accession to of thousands to lose their jobs.” office, we made a commitment to improve the wages Aside from the tax-free, retand salaries of public servants. We kept that roactive salary, there were also promise from $39,540 under the PPP to significant increases in a num$70,000 today under our administration,” ber of allowances for health Lawrence reminded. sector workers, which includPublic Servants have received ed Station Allowances being annual increases in their wages increased by over 260 per and salaries consistently since cent from $2,800 to $10,000; 2015. After taking office in 2015, Hinterland allowances will be the administration immediately increased by between 100 per increased the minimum wage by cent and 600 per cent from 26.4% from $39,540 to $50,000, between $4000 and $12,000 benefitting over 30,700 in the to $24,000; Risk allowance public sector at the time. being increased by nine hunLawrence said that this is PNCR Chairman Volda Lawrence dred percent from $500 to just the beginning of more things $5000; uniform allowance for to come. “Our party – the PNCR – started as a working class party health sector workers will be increased from $13,000 and and we will never give up fighting for the workers and we will $22,135 to $15,000 and $30,000; and on-call allowance for never give up fighting for the workers of Guyana,” Lawrence doctors will also be increased.

Min. Ally holds ‘fruitful’ talks at Crabwood Creek

--urges residents to exercise their democratic right on March 2 SCORES of residents of Crabwood Creek, Corentyne were urged to come out in their numbers on March 2, 2020 and exercise their democratic right, thereby making sure that a committed government takes the helm of Guyana. The call came from Minister of Social Protection Amna Ally during a meeting with them on Friday evening. “This government is about meeting the needs of our people, and we are doing everything possible to arrive there,” Minister Ally said as she reminded the mammoth gathering of all that the APNU+AFC administration has done to make life better for the people in the past four years. “We have commissioned the first well at Moleson Creek,” she said, adding: “This project gave way to hundreds of residents getting access to water. Several streets were resurfaced; many farmers were able to go back to their farmlands because a number of tools were donated. They were assisted with an access road for cultivation from Stelling Road to Jackson Street. The rehabilitation of the Crabwood Creek koker assisted farmers with proper drainage.” Youths attending the meeting were also encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities and training programmes the government has been making available, which will allow them to enjoy the various careers and benefits that the upcoming oil and gas industry has to offer. Upon the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Ally made a sizeable donation to Dewan Dwarka, leader Minister Ally as she engaged Crabwood of a newly-established community Creek residents on Friday group that aims to push for more development in the area. (DPI)

Some of those who turned out for the meeting

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Canje man dies in accident

MERE days away from his 50th birthday, an East Canje man met his demise, after the motor cycle he was riding collided with a motor car, on the Canefield Public Road, on Thursday morning.

Dead: Gourdat Hemraj called “Mahendra”

The man, Gourdat Hemraj, called “Mahendra”, of Lot 20 Goed Banana Land, was on his way to pick up some items in preparation for a religious function slated for Saturday, in observance of his 50th birthday, when the accident occurred. Speaking with reporters was sister of the deceased, Drupattie Persaud, an overseas-based Guyanese, who came in to celebrate her

brother’s birthday. She related that Hemraj left home at around 11:40hrs to pick up a light switch and other items, as he was putting the final touches to the preparations for his celebrations. Hemraj had left on his black motor cycle bearing registration number CJ 8679. According to police reports, while in the vicinity of the Canefield Public Road, he collided with the right front of motor car PLL 8511, which was attempting to turn into a street. Hemraj was heading North on the western carriageway while the motor car, driven by 22-year-old Joseph Samaroo, was in the eastern lane facing south and turning from east to west. Hemraj upon impact fell to the ground and received injuries about his body. He was picked up in an unconscious state by the driver and public-spirited citizens and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he briefly regained consciousness. Persaud said that, about five minutes after her brother left, she received a telephone call informing that he got

into an accident. The family picked up the elder brother of Hemraj and headed to the scene of the accident but discovered that Hemraj had already been taken to the hospital. “When we reached the hospital, the doctors were around him and he looked up to me and said he won’t make it and I told him ‘no it’s ok, you will be out soon

not to worry, I am here’,” the sister related. The inconsolable woman recalled she came out of the emergency room thinking everything was ok with her brother and he was going to be discharged in a little while but, moments later, he succumbed - a mere 30 minutes after the accident. She said the doctors tried to resuscitate him but the

The motorcar that was involved in the accident

injuries he received were severe. Hemraj, she said had spent Thursday night with family sharing childhood stories. He leaves to mourn his wife and siblings. A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted on his remains soon. The driver of the car, a salesman by profession, remains in police custody assisting with investigations.

Cannot be business as usual ― Dr. Bynoe tells private sector representatives

Director, Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe and Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee at an engagement with the Private Sector Commission on Friday (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

DIRECTOR, Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe, on Friday, told representatives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) that as preparations move steadily apace for first oil, there is urgent need to change the way business is done in Guyana in order to extract the maximum value from this resource. The director made these statements during an engagement with representatives of the PSC, which was themed “Preparing Guyanese businesses to meet the demand of the oil and gas industry”. Dr. Bynoe noted that it is essential to have a full appreciation of what the emergent sector will bring; to prepare; research and share information so that the nation is not left behind as it enters this “very complex” global in-

dustry. “We cannot still continue to do business in a manner as though we are operating in the 19th or 20th century. We are entering a very challenging time and it is essential that we also be cognisant of what these challenges are. Understanding that partnerships are vital… between government and the private sector. This has to be founded on mutual respect and continuous engagement,” he said. Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee; PSC Chairman, Ramesh Dookhoo; GAICO Construction and General Services, Managing Director, Komal Singh; CGX Energy Incorporated, Executive Director, Professor Suresh Narine; representatives from Totaltec Oilfield Services and other oil and gas companies also attended the forum, which was hosted at the Duke Lodge, Kingston. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Several sensitised on nature of drug addiction By Telesha Ramnarine

A SEVEN-DAY training for magistrates, police officers, social workers and other team members of the newly-opened Drug Treatment Court that sought to sensitise attendees on the nature of addictions, concluded on Friday afternoon. The team members would have gone through various types of other training leading up to the opening of the court, but the training was the first one organised after its opening. It was a partnership between the National Anti-Narcotics Agency, the judiciary, and the trainer, Wayne Hunte, who works under the Ministry of Public Health. The newly-established court within the judiciary provides an alternative to incarceration for persons who would have committed non-violent criminal offences, just to support their drug habits. “This training is to sensitise those working in the court about the nature and cycle of addiction, and the process that a person would

go through to come out of their addictive thinking,” Tiffany Barry , Head of Drug Information Network of the National Anti-Narcotics Agency, said.

persons dealing with an addiction. Through the court, social services will also be provided to these individuals, along with skills training, job preparedness, and job placement, which all form part of the rehabilitation process. “So we are teaching the participants the necessary skills that they would need to utilise in order to make the outcome of the court more successful, which would be to help the person kick the addiction and to stay sober in the long term so that they

However, there is a specific criterion that persons would have to fit before they can be qualified to go through this court. These are persons who have a drug addiction, and who would have committed a non-violent crime. “The person who would be committing that simple larceny or choke and rob just so that they can go buy that piece of drug… those are the persons we are targeting because if they go to prison and then come out, they might just go right back to that habit,” Barry pointed

Ministry of Public Health Trainer, Wayne Hunte

Speaking with Guyana Chronicle on the conclusion of the training at the High Court, Barry offered that the 30 participants were able to understand the addictive mind, the relationship between addiction and criminal thinking, and how to counsel

The participants on Friday at the end of the seven-day training

Dr Hanoman laid to rest

President David Granger greets a relative of Dr Hanoman at the funeral service at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception on Friday

PRESIDENT David Granger, along with ministers and other officials of the government, on Friday, joined with members of the Hanoman family to bid farewell to their patriarch, Dr. Carl ‘Max’ Alton Hanoman. Dr Hanoman died on November 6, 2019 after a period of illness. President Granger offered his condolences to the wife,

become productive members of society who are no longer engaging in criminal acts,” Barry said. This would ultimately reduce the population of the prison because persons who are in need of treatment would not be incarcerated. “Not everyone who commits a criminal act would necessarily benefit from being incarcerated. We are looking at what the reason behind the action is and the fact that many may be committing these crimes because of their addictions,” he said.

children and other family members who gathered at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, Brickdam, for the farewell service. Dr. Hanoman served in the National Assembly as a Member of Parliament, on the Guyana Medical Association and at the University of Guyana as the Director of the School of Medicine and also played an integral role in its

accreditation. He also sat on the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy and was the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). He was conferred with the Cacique Crown of Honour in 2016 for his long, dedicated and outstanding work in the medical field. (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

out. Meanwhile, Hunte, who would have been trained in the nature of addiction in a programme by the Organisation of American States, told this publication that many of the drug addicts do not believe that using drugs is a problem. The training, he said, helped the participants understand these thinking patterns so that when they engage such persons, they would know if they are in the court just to avoid jail time of if they really want to change their behavior. The court is operating out of the magistrate’s court and will be presided over by several magistrates. It will be in operation two days of every week. Once persons are found eligible to pass through it, they would be placed with a team consisting of the treatment provider, a social worker, and the magistrate who will be overseeing their case. The magistrate will be supervising this person to ensure that they are compliant with their treatment requirements.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

GNBS inspectors equipped to monitor Liza Destiny meters

LEGAL metrology inspectors of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) have undergone training to monitor the custody transfer meters on the Liza Destiny as Guyana prepares for first oil. Guyana’s petroleum sector is progressing swiftly with first oil expected at the end of this year. The Government of Guyana, through the relevant agencies, is ramping up preparations to oversee the exploration, development and production in the industry through capacity-building and other measures.

According to the head of the Legal Metrology Department, Jermaine Softley, “several legal metrology inspectors are currently benefitting from a measurement training that supports monitoring the accuracy of the custody transfer meters which are responsible for the volumes of oil lifted and sold.” The training is part of an overall project to build the capacity of the requisite staff within the GNBS to serve the oil and gas industry and comprises of three phases, which includes to review the flow process of the meter skid on the FPSO and to verify the

measurement points, equipment type, sample points, and valve sealing process. The GNBS inspectors will also be trained on the calibration of a prover loop based on the water-draw method. A consultant from Bureau Veritas is attached to GNBS for the next month and the training will be carried out in accordance with the relevant API standards. “It is anticipated that after the completion of the project, inspectors would become significantly knowledgeable on the fiscal metering system and the importance of ensur-

ing that the equipment used at the critical measuring points are calibrated,” Softley said. Accuracy of the custody transfer meters is essential for any oil and gas platform since this is used to determine the quantity and financial value

of product transaction. The project is supported by the Guyana Petroleum Resources Governance and Management Project and aims to enhance the government’s capacity to achieve its management

goals for the petroleum sector through interventions focused on legal and institutional frameworks, and the strengthening of the capacity of key institutions to manage the oil and gas sector in Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday November 16, 2019

Pursue higher education -- Minister of State tells Diamond Secondary ‘Class of 2019’

MINISTER of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, on Friday, charged the graduands of the Diamond Secondary School to pursue tertiary education so as to equip themselves with the skills needed for national development. The minister was at the time addressing students who wrote the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examination earlier this year. The minister of state told the students that tertiary education would allow them to acquire the requisite skills, abilities and competencies to be competitive in today’s job market. She also urged them to pursue studies in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) field. “If you have a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), go for it because the future points towards STEM. Education and skills are critical to our economic development and to provide our youths with economic opportunities and better-paying jobs… Our government is committed to developing our education system to ensure Guyanese youths have the skills they need for the job market as we transform our economy,” she said. Hastings-Williams also commended the teachers and parents of the graduands for supporting their academic

Some of the graduands at the Diamond Secondary School’s 7th Annual Graduation and prize-giving ceremony

endeavours, adding that they too share in their children’s success. Meanwhile, Headteacher, Lesmeine Collins said that she was proud of the school’s performance at the recent CSEC sitting. She informed that 96.45 per cent of the students who wrote the exam attained Grades one to three. Moreover, the class of 2019, she said, attained an impressive 100 per cent in Agricultural Science, Biology, Physics, Office Administration, Principles of Account and Principles of Business, Food and Nutrition, Caribbean History, Integrated Science, Family and Resource Management, Electronic Document Preparation and Management, Information Technology, Office Administration, Physical Education and Sports and Visual Arts. Valedictorian, Renesha Shiwbalak, urged the graduating class to remain faithful to the school’s longstanding philosophies, values and standards. She reminded her peers that they were ambassadors of the institution and she encouraged them to look enthusiastically towards the future and the achievement of their individual goals. “We must put [in] our minds that Graduation Day is not the end. Instead [it is] the beginning, a stepping stone towards the new step of our lives. At this moment, we are

Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, presents valedictorian, Renesha Shiwbalak with a laptop computer, in recognition of her accomplishments

embarking on the voyage of life… It is up to all of you to make a difference... Society is counting on you going forward and attaining excellence. The kind of excellence that will make your dream become a reality,” she said. Minister, Hastings-Williams later presented Shiwbalak with the President’s Prize, which includes a laptop, a plaque, a certificate of achievement and a gift voucher valued $10,000. The school also received a plaque in recognition of its accomplishments. The graduation ceremony was held at the Diamond Secondary School, Second Avenue Diamond, Georgetown.

Minister of State, Dawn Hastings- Williams (centre) and headteacher of the Diamond Secondary School, Lesmeine Collins (first left) with the school’s teachers at the annual graduation and prize-giving ceremony

Zes Kinderen residents urged to take advantage of local democracy Zes Kinderen is developing rapidly. This is the view held by the residents of the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) community. They also point to the fact that the establishment of an industrial site and other infrastructural developments will help to create more jobs and boost economic activity in the area. This was all highlighted at a community engagement hosted by Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe, on Thursday. During the meeting, residents raised several issues with the view to having them addressed. Some took the opportunity to express displeasure with how the local authorities are executing their duties. According to the residents, there are drainage issues and roads that need fixing. Minister Garrido-Lowe noted that local democracy was a priority for the current administration, hence the re-introduction of Local Gov-

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe addressing residents of Zes Kinderen, Mahaicony.

ernment Elections (LGE) by the Coalition Government. The system, she noted, is designed to allow residents to carefully select capable persons who they think will best represent them, and, importantly, to hold

them accountable when they fail to follow through on their mandates. Chairman of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Wainright Henry, endorsed the minister’s statement

A section of the gathering at a community meeting at Zes Kinderen.

on the subject of local democracy. “A roadmap is being put in place by His Excellency, President Granger where you, as well as I, can have a chance to have a say in relation to what happens, where we go, how we

go, and when we go” he said. Henry noted, too, that all residents must cooperate for development “It is a time when government is saying to you that every single one of us is needed to move this

community forward. And, if this community starts moving forward, the region will start moving forward, and if the region moves forward, the country will not stay behind.” (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Gaskin will not contest as AFC candidate in 2020 elections

Director of Manufacturing and Marketing within the Ministry of Business, Dominic Gaskin

ALLIANCE For Change (AFC) Executive Member and former Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, will not contest as a candidate in the coming General and Regional elections. He confirmed the same on Friday at the party’s press conference. Gaskin was among four other ministers of government who stepped down when the court ruled that to have dual citizenship as a Member of Parliament (MP) is a breach of Article 155 of the Constitution. Article 155 of the Constitution states: “(1) No person shall be qualified for election as a member of the National Assembly who – (a) is, by virtue of his or her own act, under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.” While Gaskin’s case is arguable as he was born in the United Kingdom but is a citizen of Guyana by descent, he was replaced by Haimraj Rajkumar as minister of business. Since his resignation, Gaskin was appointed as director of manufacturing and marketing within the Ministry of Business. Under this new portfolio, he is expected to provide assistance to small producers by facilitating access to markets, particularly Eastern Caribbean markets. According to him, there is much to be done in the areas manufacturing and marketing and, under his stewardship, he will raise the bar. Quizzed in the past about his technical abilities to be in

the position, Gaskin admitted that he does not have university qualifications but has over 40 years of experience in the manufacturing sector. The minister is, nonetheless, currently pursuing a degree at the University of Guyana which should aid him further in this regard. Just on Thursday, director-general of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, announced that he successfully relinquished his US citizenship and is now “fit and proper” to return to the National Assembly as an MP. Harmon was formerly the minister of state. Last month, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge confirmed that his British citizenship was renounced. Greenidge, who now serves as foreign secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said he now looks forward to being included on the list of candidates from which the governing APNU+AFC will make its selection of MPs at the 2020 elections. Meanwhile, former Minister of Public Service, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, has resigned. Over in the Opposition, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s (PPP/C) Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira, a Canadian citizen who served as a an MP since 1992 and Adrian Anamayah and Odinga Lumumba, were also forced to resign for being dual citizens in the National Assembly. In the case of Teixeira, reports suggest that she has relinquished her Canadian citizenship.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

GNBA meets GECOM on MMU THE Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) will soon allocate a representative to work in collaboration with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) to monitor the local media in light of the coming elections. On Friday, the GNBA met with GECOM to discuss what sort of collaboration would be needed to create an environment that is peaceful and conducive for citizens before, during and after the upcoming elections. The two, along with the ERC, will develop and operationalise a collaborative framework to ensure that the proposed tripartite engagement is successful and beneficial to all parties involved. A release from the broadcasting authority detailed that representing the GNBA were Chairman of the GNBA Board, Leslie Sobers; board member and chair of the Monitoring and Compliance Committee, Jocelyne Josiah; Board Secretary, Violet Boyal; head of the Monitoring

and Compliance Department, Christina Bianchini and Public Relations Officer, Joel Ally. They met with chairman of GECOM, Justice Claudette Singh; Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith

date as it relates to monitoring during the elections period and the ERC and GNBA are willing to help. Similar to the ERC and GECOM, the GNBA monitors for content that may incite racial hatred or crime

reviewed and updated in preparation for the upcoming elections. In an interview with Guyana Chronicle in October, Ward had agreed on the same, informing that the Guyana Press Association

certain media progressions. She had also noted the need for greater incorporation of social media news platforms in GECOM’s Media Monitoring Unit (MMU) as new reportage has moved beyond the traditional media

Lowenfield and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Yolanda Ward. There, the GNBA chairman underscored that GECOM has a wider man-

and public disorder with respect to broadcasting. In the engagement, it was put forward that the Media Code of Conduct (MMC) for GECOM needs to be

(GPA) had indicated an interest in briefing media operatives about their conduct during the elections period which could see a revision of the 2015 MCC to include

of radio, print and television. “Social media is trumping all other media. The new convergence of this new media technology is really trumping the traditional me-

dia so it means therefore that we cannot say that we’re just going to monitor the traditional media platforms and leave social media out. Social media will be one of our top priorities if and when we have that unit established,” she had said. The GNBA is in agreeance with the same as GNBA’s PRO, Joel Ally noted that the populace is gradually moving away from the mainstream media and social media is continuously growing. He added that reporters, in addition to signing on to the MMC, should also reflect those principles stipulated in the Code of Conduct when posting content and opinions on social platforms, being cognisant of the fact that they have influence on their followers. Altogether, it has long been established that media can significantly influence information and the atmosphere of the coming elections and bear the responsibility of ensuring that there is balanced reporting which provides the electorate with all sides of the issue.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

AFC ‘battle-ready’ for 2020 elections By Lisa Hamilton

THE Alliance For Change (AFC) is “battle-ready” for the 2020 elections and will launch its elections campaign on Saturday, November 23, 2019. At a press conference on Friday, the AFC said that some 12 temporary campaign offices will be set up countrywide and its management team and international consultants are working assiduously to meet the objectives. However, whether the party is able to head into campaign mode on schedule depends on the completion of ongoing negotiations with its coalition partner, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). The parties are expected to meet again on November 18, 2019 to come to an

agreement on a final matter in relation to the revised Cummingsburg Accord. In the meantime, the AFC has prepared its 2020 manifesto which will be merged with the APNU’s manifesto, creating one document for the coalition. This too is expected to be ‘hammered out’ following the November 18 discussions. Updating the media on its manifesto, Deputy General-Secretary, Lenonard Craig, said the party is confident that what it will put forward is valuable to the coalition and the country at large. “From where the AFC sits, we are clear about what our manifesto will contain and we are clear about an elections campaign we want to carry out but the last stop would be the completion of

the Cummingsburg Accord agreement. Once that is completed, then our plans

informed that campaign offices have already been launched in Lusignan and

Alliance For Change (AFC) Deputy General Secretary, Lenonard Craig (Adrian Narine photo)

will be dovetailed with that of the APNU and then we move forward from there,” Craig said. Regarding preparations for the campaign, he

Corriverton while, on Saturday, another will be launched at Bath Settlement. In the weeks to come, others will be launched

in Onderneeming, Albion and on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), with several other proposed areas to be decided upon. “In all, we plan to open 12 offices throughout the country and in every coastal region. That is part of an AFC programme as part of campaign plans, that the AFC is rolling out,” Craig said. “I wish to let Guyana know that AFC is battle-ready. We desire a partnership with the APNU, it is the preferred way to go in these elections but we are battle-ready and with or without our partners we are ready to go.” When the coalition parties contested separately at the 2011 General and Regional Elections, the AFC won seven seats with its greatest support

of 11,634 votes coming from Region Six where the APNU came close behind in the Region with 10,798. Meanwhile, that year, APNU won 26 seats with the majority of its votes coming from Region Four at 84,828 in which Region the AFC secured only 10,635. Over 340,000 valid votes were cast in 2011 in comparison to over 400,000 votes cast at the 2015 General and Regional Elections. At that election, the APNU/AFC coalition raked in 207,200 votes with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) close behind at 202,694 votes which presented them with a one seat majority in the National Assembly.

GTT employee successfully completed master’s programme in UK SYSTEMS analyst of the Guyana Telephone and Te l e g r a p h C o m p a n y (GTT), Shevon Morris, has attained a master’s

degree in Information Systems Management from the Brunel University, in London. Morris, who benefitted

from a GTT scholarship, has been an employee of the company for over eight years. According to a press

statement from GTT, Morris expressed her gratitude to the company for giving her the opportunity to study abroad and expand her knowledge.

GTT’s Systems Analyst, Shevon Morris

“To know that my workplace has my best interest at heart was moving and I will forever be grateful for the support given to my professional growth,” Morris said. Morris said her recent studies provided the opportunity to examine the integration of people, processes and technology in an organisational context. “I was able to reflect on existing processes and technologies utilised to carry out my duties. I immediately thought of ways to improve processes and how stateof-the-art technologies can be leveraged to achieve the company’s customer-focused vision,” she explained. “GTT is extremely proud of Shevon; not only for successfully completing her master’s degree, but for fuelling the true meaning behind ‘Women in STEM’. Investing in our employees

is one of the many ways in which we accomplish the company’s commitment to employee growth and development,” said CEO of GTT, Justin Nedd. In addition to congratulating Morris, he reiterated GTT’s general commitment to creating a workplace where employees are empowered, engaged and happy. As a technology company, GTT has specifically advocated for persons to be involved in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). In her role at GTT, Morris develops and maintains the data infrastructure of the company, which she uses to generate reports on the products and services of the company. These reports impact decision-making, strategy and adjustments to the benefit of customers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Pegasus expansion on target for November 2020 completion THE expansion of the Pegasus Hotel is moving apace and is expected to be completed by November 2020. This was according to Chief Executive Officer/ Owner of the Pegasus Hotel, Robert Badal, in an invited comment on Tuesday. “Everything is going good, we finished the structure of the 12-storey tower and we are working on the seven-storey facility, which is an office complex,” said Badal. Although construction of the tower, which will be utilised for accommodations, is complete, internal work is yet to be done. The internal work includes electrical, plumbing, installation of a building management system, installation of air-conditioning units, tiling and so forth. “We are on target to finish the tower about July next year and another four months from there on we should finish the office complex,” said Badal. It was reported that close to US$100M will be injected into the extension of the Pegasus Hotel. The project, which entails the construction of two high rise structures which will

house the first world quality office, living spaces and all the services of a first-class hotel, is being done by China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC). Badal had said the new project, which has been in the planning stage for quite some time, will be classed as a “Grade ‘A’ property” and is a timely addition to the country as it moves rapidly ahead in the oil and gas sector. “It’s a very innovative project and I think our country needs it at this time looking at what we’re expecting in 2020 in terms of the oil and gas sector. “This project has been planned for a long time and the team I have, we’ve been working on it for the last year. So, I’m very happy we’re at the stage where we’ve met now and this launch here today is the first step towards doing construction,” the proprietor said. The current facility, which was built by renowned British construction firm, Taylor Woodrow, has hosted guests from all walks of life. Queen Elizabeth II, former President of the Unites States of Amer-

“I AM so frustrated with this country so I decided to break the ambulance window. I want to cause terror in this country cause I am sick and tired with the way it’s going,” were the words of 33-year-old Vishnu Sukdeo, when he appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 15, 2019. Sukdeo pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that, on November 12, 2019, at Brickdam, Georgetown, he broke one left side window of motor vehicle PTT 6114 valued $20,000, property of the Ministry of Public Health. According to statements presented by Police Prosecutor Christopher Morris, on the day in question, the ambulance was parked on the Brickdam when Sukdeo picked up a piece of wood

and hit the left side window several times and ran off, making good his escape. The matter was reported and, following an investigation, Sukdeo was arrested and charged for the offence. Magistrate Bess told Sukdeo that, despite his frustration, he cannot damage someone’s property. He then sentenced him to nine months in prison.

‘Frustrated’ homeless man sentenced for damaging Ministry of Health Vehicle

Vishnu Sukdeo

ica, Jimmy Carter, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bhachan, and pop star Mick Jagger, have all enjoyed the unmatched ambiance and comfort of Guyana’s premier hotel.

An artist’s impression of what the new facilities will look like

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Avoid moving around with large amounts of cash ― acting crime chief urges

By Rabindra Rooplall

Crime Chief (ag), Senior Superintendent Michael Kingston

BUSINESS persons and persons handling large amounts of cash should use cheques, wire transfers and other electronic forms of payments now that the

Christmas season has commenced. This is according to Crime Chief (ag), Senior Superintendent, Michael Kingston, who was at the time speaking about the Guyana Police Force’s security plan

for the Christmas season, at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary on Friday. He explained that many business people and persons are robbed because of lack of investment in proper security at their premises, along with

hiring of competent security personnel or services to handle large cash transfers. On this note, the acting crime chief urged members of the business community not to leave large amounts of cash in safes at their business premises but should utilise the services of a bank to deposit their cash. “They should make use of the reputable security companies when transferring large sums of cash. Citizenry conducting business, shopping should be cognisant of their environment and should try not to carry around large sums of cash, they should utilise debit cards,” he explained. He added, “Leaving large amounts of cash and firearms in vehicles is not advised. Persons are advised to be very careful with the practice of wearing large amounts of jewellery. Persons conducting activities in isolated areas should do so in groups, and be alert. When leaving the bank, persons should be vigilant.” Additionally, the senior superintendent said persons

who have CCTV cameras installed on their premises should ensure that they are in proper working order and in a secured area. Meanwhile, in underscoring some of the challenges faced by police, the crime chief (ag) said the poor quality of CCTV security surveillance cameras are a major issue, along with the relevant cooperation needed to facilitate extraction of footage. He also said failure of witnesses to attend identification parades and court is troubling. Noting other challenges, he said proper monitoring of patrols, road blocks, cordon, searches and other operational exercises can be frustrating. The crime chief said there is also need for better communication between ranks and their superiors as well as among divisions. Other challenges, he noted, were the need for enhanced protective gears for the police, nipping corruption in the bud and issues of recidivism, among others.

Man who stole from his mother sentenced A 24-year-old man, was, on Friday, November 15, 2019, sentenced to prison by Magistrate Dylon Bess, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Kevin Christopher admitted to the allegations which stated that, on November 14, 2019, at Hous-

Kevin Christopher

ton Housing Scheme, he stole $10,000 cash from his mother, Michelle Balkaran. According to the statements presented by Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh, on the day in question, the virtual complaint secured her purse with the said cash and left her home to visit a relative. Upon her return, she saw her son removing the money from her purse. She then reported the matter to the police and Christopher was arrested and charged. Christopher told the court that, on the said day, he was looking for his clothes when he stumbled upon the money and decided to take it. Magistrate Bess, after listening to the statements, sentenced the young man to six months in prison.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Enhanced security for Christmas season

REGIONAL Division Four ‘A’ will be divided into nine sectors in order to effectively and adequately police the City and its environs during the Christmas season. The plan was unveiled by Senior Division Commander, Assistant Commissioner, Marlon Chapman, on Friday, during the Guyana Police Force’s Christmas Policing Presentation at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary. The plan took effect on November 15 and will run until January 15, 2020. Chapman said heightened special operations by CID and Intelligence ranks at identified hotspots have commenced for the Christmas season with a menu of other activities. According to the commander, each sector will be commanded by an officer or inspector who will have adequate ranks under their charge.

Additionally, the assistant commissioner said there will be continued focus on noise nuisance and the enforcement of the curfew.

tween the following hours: 06:00hrs to 10:00hrs; 09:00hrs to 13:00hrs; 12:00hrs to 16:00hrs and 15:00hrs to 20:00hrs daily,” the commander noted.

Senior Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Marlon Chapman

There will be increased patrol around the City, the Georgetown prison, hotels, night spots, places of business, banks and post offices. “This will also be enhanced by snap road blocks, stop and search exercises. Foot patrols will be done be-

Motorcyclist succumbs to injuries in accident

A few hours after being involved in a motor vehicular accident along the East Canje roadway, motorcyclist Gurdatt Hemraj of Lot 20 Goed Bananen Land, Canje succumbed on Thursday afternoon at the New Amsterdam hospital. The accident occurred just before noon on the Canefield Public Road, Canje, where motor car PLL 8511, owned and driven by Joseph Samaroo, a 22-year-old sales representative, collided with Hemraj, 49. Police said that Hemraj was heading north along the western lane of the said public road while motor car # PLL 8511 was proceeding across the road from east to west into the western lane when they collided. Hemraj fell on the road and received injuries about the body. The motorcyclist was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he regained consciousness while receiving treatment. However, his condition subsequently worsened and he later succumbed. The driver of the car remains in police custody.

Further, the commander explained that during the 22-31 December, 2019, the foot patrol timings will be adjusted to accommodate late shopping. He said motorcycle and vehicular patrols will be done on a 24-hour basis,

through a shift system. “Mobile patrols will be enhanced in sub-division two, three and Turkeyen. These patrols will concentrate on places of businesses, night spots and hot spots in their respective sub-divisions, while marine patrol will be maintained,” the commander said. He continued, “Duties will be adjusted to facilitate the commuting public during late shopping hours. Christmas Day, patrols will be deployed as normal. Old Year’s Day and Night special emphasis will be given to places of worship, entertainment spots, commuting public and businesses.” The commander also noted that emphasis will be placed on the East Bank corridor from Agricola Public Road to Ruimveldt, Stabroek Market, Regent and Robb Streets, Homestretch Avenue and Vlissengen Road and all bus parks.

Pensioner who allegedly fondled six-year-old released on bail

A 66-year-old man, who allegedly fondled a six-yearold girl, was, on Friday, November 15, 2019, arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Reuben France appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that, on February 15, 2019, at Supply East Bank Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with a child under the age of sixteen. According to information presented in court, the defendant is known to the family and on the day in question, the child’s grandmother asked him to clean her yard. The child was playing in the yard while her grandmother was upstairs. The defendant after realizing, that himself and the child were in the yard alone, sat in a chair and called the child to sit on his lap and fondled her. The child then told her grandmother what transpired and the matter was reported to the police. Magistrate McLennan released France on $75,000 bail under the condition that he remained 50 feet away from the family and made no contact with the said family. France is also to report to the Timehri Police Station, weekly, until the completion of his trial and is to make his second court appearance on November 20, 2019.

Man sentenced to six months in prison for stealing toilet bowl “I DID not break the place, the place been done bruck so I just took the things,” were the words of 30-yearold Leonard Shaw, when he appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 15, 2019.

Leonard Shaw

Shaw pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that, between November 12 and 13, 2019, at Charlotte and Alexander Streets, he broke and entered the dwelling house of David Coates and stole a toilet bowl set, valued at $27,000 and a receiver sink, valued at $15,000. According to police prosecutor Sanj Singh, on the day in question, the virtual complainant secured his home and went to bed. However, in the wee hours of the morning he was awakened by a loud noise. Upon checking, he saw the defendant exiting his home with the items mentioned in the charge. Shaw was sentenced to six months in prison.

Homeless man sentenced to nine months in prison

A HOMELESS man, charged for break and entering a church, was, on Friday, November 15, 2019, arraigned before Magistrate Dylon Bess. Paul Ramsawatt appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that, between November 11 and 12, 2019, at Waterloo Street, Georgetown, he broke and entered the Christ Church, Parish, with intent to commit a felony. According to the statements presented by Police Prosecutor, Christopher Morris, on the day in question, about 01:00hrs, the security guard, who was on duty at the church, noticed a window on the eastern side of the building broken. Upon further investigation, the said security guard saw the front door of the church open and found a bag containing a lighter and a fan in the door way. A few minutes later

the defendant was seen running away from the premises. The police were summoned and Ramsawatt was arrested and charged. Police Prosecutor Morris noted that, Ramsawatt was before the court for a similar matter and was

Paul Ramsawatt

sentenced to prison. However, Ramsawatt pleaded with the court and told the Magistrate that he’ll never commit an offence again. Magistrate Bess, after listening to the statements presented in court, sentenced Ramsawatt to nine months in prison.

IDB updating access to information policy THE Board of Executive Directors at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), on November 4, launched a plan to update the Bank’s Access to Information Policy. As part of this process, the IDB will hold public consultations in two phases, which opened on Friday and will extend through approximately May 2020. The policy update aims to reaffirm the IDB’s commitment to transparency, and to strengthen corporate governance and accountability. The IDB will also incorporate new disclosure standards adopted by other international financial institutions. The new policy will also increase the amount of information

disclosed and aims to make disclosure more proactive and predictable. The IDB last updated its Access to Information Policy in 2011, adopting a new approach to disclosure based on maximum access to information. The IDB’s implementation of disclosure policies has improved continuously over the years. A ranking of access-to-information programs by Publish What You Fund, the global campaign for transparency in aid and development, is a testament to that progress, having placed the IDB in the highest category.

To further strengthen the IDB’s culture of openness, the Bank is inviting all interested parties to participate in the public consultation process and offer feedback about how it can improve its Access to Information Policy. To engage the widest possible audience, the IDB will carry out web-based consultations and in-person meetings in Washington, DC, and throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Interested individuals and institutions can register online to receive updates, offer feedback and, soon, see additional details about the face-to-face meetings. They can also participate anonymously.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Haags Boshch land fill cell 2 will be ready for January ― Citizens urged to reuse, recycle

R E P O RT E R S w e re o n Thursday given the opportunity to view the current position of works on the $290M ‘Cell II’ of the Haags Boshch Landfill site at Eccles. This was facilitated by the Ministry of Communities through its third annual landfill site media tour. The Haags Boshch Landfill site currently collects waste from Georgetown, along with 15 NDC’s on the East Bank and East Coast of

Demerara. Cell two is slated to accept waste as of January 2020, and is currently undergoing final works to ensure it meets the set deadline. Currently the necessary pipelines, geo fabric, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are being placed that will lead the ‘leachate’, or waste water that is produced by the garbage, into the leachate ponds to ensure that it is treated and

disposed of following environmental protective rules and regulations. A leachate is water that has percolated through a solid and leached out some of the constituents. Landfill Site Manager, Lloyd Stanton, explained the steps of the waste management process, from the collection of garbage from the trucks, to the dissemination of treated leachate into the waterways. He explained that although there is no new

Current operations on ‘Cell I’ at of the Haags Boshch Landfill site at Eccles

Landfill Site Manager, Lloyd Stanton

CARICOM saddened by passing of former BVI Premier THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) says it was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the former Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) Hon. Ralph Telford O’Neal. Premier O’Neal, the longest serving elected representative in BVI history, died on Monday at the age of 85, Caricom said in a release. “Mr. O’Neal’s long and invaluable service to the territory was highlighted by his becoming its first Premier when the constitution was amended in 2007,” CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque recalled in a message of condolence to the Premier of the BVI Hon. Andrew Fahie. He noted that Mr. O’Neal had also previously served twice as Chief Minister and three times as Leader of the Opposition. “The depth of respect that Mr. O’Neal earned was evidenced by the praises

showered on him by all sides of the political divide when he became the first member of the House of Assembly in recent Virgin Islands history to have been bestowed with the title of Member Emeritus,” the CARICOM Secretary-General noted. “The contribution to his beloved BVI spanned much more than politics as he was involved in business, sport and virtually all aspects of the life of the territory,” he added. “His was a voice that was also heard in support of regional integration, both at the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and CARICOM.” “On behalf of the Community, I express deep condolences to his wife, Mrs Edris O’Neal, OBE, and his family and to the Government and People of the British Virgin Islands. The territory has lost an iconic figure”, the Secretary-General said.

technology in place, the operations of the site have seen some improvement. “We have improved on what we have got. We have improved the systems of our monitoring, we have moved to do quarterly monitoring, and we are in the process of introducing ground water testing on the site, one of the things to note is that any of these changes or updating of systems come at a very high cost, and we know the implementation is kind of slow but we have started this year, to ensure that what is going on in the landfill site does not affect the general public.” Stanton further explained that complete process of filtrating, sampling, treating and releasing of the leachate takes approximately 21 days. He disclosed to the media that the treated leachate can be useful in agriculture and that the ministry hopes to, sometime soon, conduct research on what and how it affects vegetation. Stanton further advised that persons should be made aware of the process of waste management, explaining that after garbage is disposed of by an individual and is taken away by the trucks, they usually aren’t interested in what happens to the waste after that. But really and truly, he said, that is when the garbage

One of the leachate treatment ponds

Media Personnel at the site of ‘Cell II’ (Delano Williams Photo)

is prone to become a threat to the environment. He added that every individual produces at least five pounds of waste every day, and that accumulates to over 400 tonnes in total, that the landfill receives on a daily basis. Stanton reminds resi-

dents to practice the three R’s; Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. This, he said, will aid in alleviating environmental hazards. Additionally, Stanton said that the Ministry of Communities has recently signed contracts to rehabilitate and upgrade the sites

that they have for Bartica, Lethem and New Amsterdam, so as to ensure that these parts of the country are able to have this type of facility to ensure that waste management is done in compliance with the regulatory stipulations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

Ambassador Lynch visits Lethem for meetings with Region 9 leaders IN line with the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to help build capacity in remote areas, and strengthen border security, Ambassador Sarah Lynch made a trip to Region Nine and met with the Regional Chairman, the Regional Police, a local school, and made a short visit to the Brazil side of the border to meet with Immigration officials and the Brazilian consulate. “The people of Lethem and outlining communities were extraordinarily warm and friendly. What a beautiful part of Guyana! It was great to meet local and regional leadership to hear about both the challenges and opportunities in the region. And, it was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of the U.S. Peace Corps hard at work in the Rupununi”, said the Ambassador.

Five jointly charged with murder of Corentyne fishermen THE five men, who allegedly murdered four Corentyne Fishermen between October 5-13, were jointly charged for the murders on Thursday. The joint charge came after Police Prosecutor, Althea Soloman, asked that the court discharge the initial separate charges and institute the joint charge on Suresh Sundat called ‘Chu Bai’, 22, and Narine Dhanrajh, 30, both of Belvedere Village; Lennox Arleigh Grimmond called “Breeze”, 38, of Cromarty Village; Ricardo Fraser called “Shines” and Anonth Boodrage called “Andy”. The men were unrepresented when they appeared at the Whim Magistrate’s Court before her worship, Renita Singh. The prosecution’s case, as read in court, stated that between October 5-13, the men murdered Vishnu Seeram called “Kevin”, 20, of Lot 76 Miss Phoebe, Port Morant; Marvin Tamessar, 20, called “Buddy” and Lamar Otto Petrie, 20, both of Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant; and Kawal Kissoon called “Ajay” of 223 Letter Kenny Village, during the course of a piracy attack on the Corentyne River. The fishermen left a pri-

Suresh Sundat (in blue), Narine Dhanraj (in white) as they leave the Whim Magistrate’s Court

vate wharf at Number 65 Village on October 5, with the hope of a successful trip. Their boat, the SARA 1, was later found abandoned at the

Wellington Park foreshore. The men were missing. It was later learnt that the men were attacked about two days into their fishing trip.

Lennox Grimmond covers his face

Ricardo Fraser and Anonth Boodrage

The five accused allegedly tried to loot the catch of the four fishermen and after being recognised, they allegedly beat, bound, chopped and threw the four men over-

board and escaped with their catch and engine. So far, the bodies of Kissoon and Petrie have been recovered. A number of family members of the slain men

turned up at court, and as the accused were escorted down the stairs of the court, tensions ran high. Relatives of the men, who were charged, were accused of saying, “Is good them kill them out” causing some close family members of the victims to break down in tears. A relative of Lamar Petrie said she believes that the death penalty should be instituted on the accused as they showed no remorse for the crime. The five will make another court appearance on January 16 for the commencement of the preliminary inquiry.

Relatives of the victims at court on Thursday

$96M in upgrades for Port Kaituma schools Students hailing from the Matarkai Sub-District are set to receive a tremendous education boost through a $96M rehabilitation of two major schools in the Region. The schools that will benefit from a first of its kind rehabilitation are Port Kaituma Primary and Secondary in the Barima-Waini Region. This was announced by Director-General (DG) of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon in his

post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday. Harmon said Cabinet has noted the $53.6M upgrade to the primary school. Port Kaituma Secondary School, which has also benefited from internet connectivity through the Ministry of Public Telecommunications’ National Data Management Authority, is slated to receive $42.5M rehabilitative works. A burning issue at the school has been the infrastructure and facilities. The school’s dormitory houses

children coming from other areas of the North-West and the rehabilitation of the facilities is seen as timely. The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Education, has been investing heavily in education since taking office in 2015. Other projects being executed in the education sector include the $23M extension of Leonora Primary and a new block for the Region 3 school. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 16, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 16, 2019

Grudge matches in... from backpage

Hassan and Afraz Allie are eager to get themselves on the podium, so this should be an interesting class. Add in Allan Da Silva and fans can expect action from laps one through 10. GROUP FOUR Andrew King is expected to be out in full force to defend his championship from all challengers, chief of which is expected to come from Kristian and Kevin Jeffrey. The former, a two-time Caribbean Champion will also be eager for some on track action at the event after missing most of the year. There is also the dark horses in Vishok Persaud and Neil Persaud (not related), as well as Danny Persaud and there is sure to be a battle worth watching. RADICAL SR3 Zane Maloney has positioned himself as the man to watch in this class having flown in from Europe to be a part of the Radical Caribbean Cup 2019. The reigning British F4 Champion will come up against Kristian Jeffrey as the lone Guyanese with his dad Sean, uncles Mark and Stuart and Jamaican William Myers on track. Trinidad’s Kristian Boodoosingh is also expected in the mix. SUPERBIKES Similarly, team Mohamed’s Enterprise and their riders are the men to beat with Harry Truelove and Richard Cooper returning alongside newcomer Dan Lindfoot. Their challengers are returning former champion Nikhil Seereeram, Steven Vieira and Matthew Vieira who are no pushovers. Action begins at 10:00hrs today and 08:00hrs tomorrow with adults being charged $2 000 for entry and children $1 000. Children under 10 years are free.

Dharry battles, but falls to Australia’s Moloney in the 9th round GUYANA’S Elton Dhar-

ry lost his Interim WBA super flyweight fight to Australian Andrew Moloney in Melbourne when an injury to his eye forced ring doctors to stop the fight in the ninth round. According to reports out of Australia, the gutsy Dharry (24-6-1, 14 KO) had Moloney (21-0, 14 KO) in serious trouble in the fifth round, landing a beautiful right uppercut counter that stunned the 28-year-old Aussie contender. In fact, Moloney’s right knee hit the canvas, and it should have been scored a knockdown, but it happened so quickly that it’s legitimately likely that referee Ferlin Marsh just didn’t see the knee touchdown. For the back half of the fifth round, Moloney was reeling as Dharry, 33, looked to close the show and score a serious upset. But Moloney, whose legs were pretty well gone, managed to hold and hang on through the round. Moloney refocused and bounced back with a nice sixth round, where the tide really turned. In that sixth round, Dharry’s right eye began to close shut due largely to the turn to page 31

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday November 16, 2019

Agarwal’s epic 243 flattens jaded Bangladesh NEW DELHI, India (Reuters) - Opener Mayank Agarwal smashed an epic 243 and forged two century-plus partnerships to flatten Bangladesh and put India firmly in control of the opening Test in Indore yesterday. The 28-year-old clobbered eight sixes and 28 fours in his career-best knock before holing out in the deep as India finished day two on a commanding 493-6 for an overall lead of 343 runs. Ravindra Jadeja, who made a breezy 60 not out, and Umesh Yadav (25 not out) will return today hoping to bat Bangladesh out of the contest at Indore’s Holkar stadium. India plundered 407 runs on the second day, while Bangladesh were left to rue dropping Agarwal on 32 at slip on Thursday, when Imrul Kayes spilled a routine catch off Abu Jayed’s bowling. Abu struck twice in the first 30 minutes after India resumed the day on 86-1. The right-arm quick sent back Cheteshwar Pujara, who made an uncharacteristically aggressive 54 then trapped

SCOREBOARD BANGLADESH 1st innings 150 INDIA 1st innings o/n 86 for 1 Mayank Agarwal c Abu Jayed b Mehidy Hasan 243 Rohit Sharma c Liton Das b Abu Jayed 6 Cheteshwar Pujara c (sub) b Abu Jayed 54 Virat Kohli lbw Abu Jayed 0 Ajinkya Rahane c Taijul Islam b Abu Jayed 86 Ravindra Jadeja not out 60 Wriddhiman Saha b Ebadat Hossain 12 Umesh Yadav not out 25 Extras: (lb-1, nb-3, w-3) 7 Total: (six wkts, 114.0 overs) 493 Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-105, 3-119, 4-309, 5-432, 6-454. Bowling: Ebadat Hossain 31-5-115-1 (w-3), Abu Jayed 25-3-108-4 (nb)-3, Taijul Islam 28-4-120-0, Mehidy Hasan 27-0-125-1, Mahmudullah 3-0-24-0.

Virat Kohli lbw for a twoball duck. Ajinkya Rahane walked in to join Agarwal and they milked the jaded Bangladesh attack with ridiculous ease during their 190-run partnership. Agarwal was adjudged lbw to Mehidy Hasan Miraz on 82 but challenged the decision which was overturned after replays suggested the

ball would have missed the stumps. The nimble-footed opener flicked Ebadat Hossain to bring up his hundred but Rahane missed his century and fell for 86. As Agarwal cruised past the 150-mark, Kohli egged on the opener from the dressing room to push for a double-century. Agarwal reached his sec-

Dharry battles, but falls...

From page 30

basically, Dharry kept landing shots, but Moloney was able to really beat up on him in the eighth round, and at the start of the ninthwhen the doctor took another look, the fight was reasonably stopped, awarding Moloney a TKO victory at 0:01 of round nine.

Dharry, was unbeaten for 10 years, prior to his fight with Andrew Moloney and the Guyanese acquitted himself extremely well in this fight, and he should get more calls. He put in a tremendous effort in what turned out to be a war of a fight, raising his profile significantly in defeat.

American Racing Tips

Race 8 Dance Along Dede

Aqueduct Race 1 So Sublime Race 2 Hellbender Race 3 Brucarita Race 4 Mr Phil Race 5 Nutzforboltz Race 6 Donegal Aces Race 7 Wailin Josie Race 8 Time Limit Race 9 Wish Upon Race10 Ellanation

South Africa Racing Tips Kenilworth 08:15 hrs Isle Of Wight 08:55 hrs General Franco 09:30 hrs Rille 10:05 hrs Secret Depths 10:43 hrs Quintay 11:20 hrs Queen’s Club

08:40 hrs Mick Pastor 09:15 hrs Wholestone 09:50 hrs Ramses adE Teillee 10:25 hrs Siruh Du Lac 11:00 hrs Vieux Lion Rouge 11:30 hrs Remastered 12:00 hrs Midnight Callisto

effective jab of Moloney. By the end of the sixth, Dharry clearly couldn’t see much of anything through that eye, but the officials appreciated his effort and gave him the chance to hang in there and fight back. And he did fight back. Boxing through one eye,

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Phantom Ro Race 2 Seattle Treasure Race 3 Owlette Race 4 Mamitas Chica Race 5 Mustn’t Grumble Race 6 Dani’s Victory Race 7 Act Of Bob

English Racing Tips Lingfield 08:25 hrs Fruition 09:00 hrs Alrajaa 09:35 hrs Alvaro 10:10 hrs Scentasa 10:45 hrs Lord North 11:15 hrs Gifted Master 11:45 hrs Thunder Road Cheltenham 08:05 hrs Thyme Hill

Wetherby 08:50 hrs Fitzroy 09:05 hrs Good Boy Bobby 09:40 hrs Sakhee’s City 10:15 hrs Mr Antolini 10:50 hrs Miah Grace 11:20 hrs Cornerstone Lad Irish Racing Tips Punchestown 08:15 hrs Poseidon 08:50 hrs Faugheen 09:25 hrs Éclair De Beaufeu 10:00 hrs Klassical Dream 10:35 hrs Blue Sari 11:10 hrs Big Tree 11:40 hrs The Big Getaway 12:00 hrs Chosen Mate

ond double hundred in style, hitting Mehidy over longon for a massive six, and celebrated with raised arms looking skywards. Having lived up to his captain’s expectation, Agarwal smiled back at Kohli, who flashed three fingers suggesting the opener should go for a triple hundred. That was not to be though, as Agarwal’s slogsweep off Mehidy found Abu

at deep midwicket. Agarwal added 123 runs with Jadeja. Abu claimed 4-108 but ended up as one of the four Bangladesh bowlers who bled 100-plus runs. “We had lost two wickets, so the idea was to be cautious, but not too cautious,” Agarwal told broadcaster Star Sports of their batting approach. “Once we got a good partnership, it was all about building. I was watching the ball well, so thought ‘why not’ for the big shots. We haven’t spoken about declaration, but we are in the

driver’s seat.” It was always going to be a difficult tour for Bangladesh. Captain Shakib Al Hasan was banned from all cricket for two years with one year of that suspended after the all-rounder was found to have breached the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption code. They are also without opener Tamim Iqbal, who has opted out of the tour to be with his pregnant wife, and all-rounder Mohammad Saifuddin, who is nursing a back injury.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 16, 2019

Lift Sports Journalism to honour Dave Lamy - Jack Warner

JACK Warner, the former CONCACAF president and FIFA vice-president, who has been a personal friend of former sports journalist Dave Lamy, called for the profession to be lifted in his honour. Warner, in his tribute to the veteran sports commentator at his funeral service at the Holy Trinity Cathedral on Abercrombie Street, Portof-Spain last Monday, hailed Lamy as a special person, who was difficult to emulate. He and George Baptiste, another veteran journalist were two peas in a pod, making sports, writing sports and commentating, Warner said. Warner was among a large audience that comprised many futures, present and other veteran journalists, who were there to pay their final respects. Warner, a former Caribbean Football Union (CFU) president who was lucky to have Lamy as one of his employees, said he remembers Lamy as someone who did things with

passion, and also described him as a critical thinker. As Lamy, 80, laid in a casket before being taken to his final resting place, Warner said he has always tried to understand death, so much so that he has given up trying. “People ask why X and why Y. Why now and not then?. These are questions none of us can answer. We can be consoled by the fact that the great maker, the Holy Father above, knows best, and when he says it’s time to go, it’s time.” Meanwhile, Anthony Harford, a former sports journalist himself, now turn sports administrator, in his eulogy said Lamy’s main concern was the future of sports journalism. And though Lamy’s body laid cold stiff and unable to hear or understand anything that was taking place, he (Harford) still uttered kind words to his friend, that he can rest comfortably, knowing that with the Sirjio Du Four’s and Ryan Bachoo’s of this world,

Former T&T sports journalist Dave Lamy

sports journalism was well-taken care of. Lamy passed away on November 1. His concerns for the profession stemmed from a successful career that racked up numerous awards and accolades for excellence in horse racing commentaries, to live broadcasts of the

Olympic Games, to the Commonwealth Games to overall football coverage. According to Harford, Lamy was an unrelenting, unbending professional who never gave up on anything, even though the circumstance was difficult. Though he was a master of all sports, Lamy’s true love was in horse racing, where his style of performing commentaries by drawing and colouring the symbols of each horse on a book, to prevent him from forgetting during broadcasts, was later followed by many. Lamy’s achievements included being the first Trinbagonian to cover the Commonwealth Games in Australia; live broadcast of the World Netball Championship in 1979; live broadcast of the World Netball Championship in 1983 in Singapore and the first Trinbagonian to cover the Olympic Games from Moscow, among many others, Harford said. (Reprinted from Trinidad Guardian)

Fast bowler Ferguson gets New Zealand Test call WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Reuters) - New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been rewarded for his success in white ball cricket with a maiden call-up to the Test squad for matches against England and Australia, the country’s board (NZC) said yesterday. Ferguson finished as the second highest wicket-taker at the 50-overs World Cup in England where New Zealand lost a nail-biting final in a super over to the hosts. Lockie Ferguson finished as the second highest wicket-taker at the 50-overs The 28-year-old has World Cup in England. played 36 one-day internationals and eight Twenty20 after missing the recently concluded T20 international matches for the Black Caps while he has also shown strong series against England with a hip injury. domestic form with 153 wickets from 42 first-class games Leg-spinner Todd Astle was the only other change to at an average of 24.30. the squad from that which drew a two-Test series 1-1 in “There’s no doubt Lockie has been knocking on Sri Lanka in August, with spinners Will Somerville and the door for a while now and we’re delighted to finally Ajaz Patel left out. bring him into the Test fold,” selector Gavin Larsen After hosting England for a two-Test series, starting on said in a NZC statement. November 21 at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand travel to “It’s well documented he has raw pace, but he also possesses a quality bowling skill set and has proved his Australia to play three Tests. Squad: Kane Williamson (captain), Todd Astle, durability. Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, “Our pace bowling stocks are strong at the moment and we feel Lockie will add another dimension to the picture, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, and will create some great competition.” Batting mainstay Kane Williamson will lead the side Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling

Messi goal gives Argentina 1-0 win over Brazil RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (Reuters) - Lionel Messi returned from international suspension to score the winner in Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Brazil in Saudi Arabia yesterday. The Barcelona striker, who missed four games after calling the South American Football Confederation “corrupt,” scored after 14 minutes to give Argentina a deserved victory in the so-called Superclasico. The result extended Brazil’s winless run to five games since they lifted the Copa America in July, their worst such run since 2013. Brazil beat Argentina Argentina’s Lionel 2-0 the last time these teams met in the Copa America Messi in action with semi-finals and they should Brazil’s Alex Sandro. have taken a ninth-minute (REUTERS/Ahmed Yosri) lead but Gabriel Jesus fired a penalty kick wide after he had been brought down in the box. Argentina were also awarded a penalty five minutes later and although Brazilian keeper Alisson saved Messi’s initial effort, the Barcelona striker followed up to put Argentina 1-0 ahead. Messi missed two chances to double Argentina’s lead before halftime, with defender Eder Militao and Alisson blocking the opportunities. Brazil, who were without Paris St Germain striker Neymar, had two-thirds of the possession but rarely threatened the Argentine goal in a game that featured 41 fouls and six yellow cards. Argentina meanwhile looked more sprightly even without Sergio Aguero and Paulo Dybala, both of whom were unused substitutes. Argentina have now won three of the five games they have played since their semi-final exit at the Copa America.

OSCL extends kudos to GSCL for staging of PM T20 Softball Cup THE president, executives and members of the Orlando Softball Cricket League (OSCL) have extended congratulations to Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. on the staging of the third edition of the Prime Minister T20 Softball Cup which culminated with the final at the Everest Cricket Club (ECC) ground on Sunday, November 3. According to OSCL Public Relations Officer Leema Jiawan: “We were gratified at the hospitality extended and the efforts made to facilitate the visiting teams.” Jiawan commended GSCL on the excellent organisation of the tournament, pointing out that their players were having renewed feelings of elation and enthusiasm. “The motivation was strong and OSCL was ready to face the challenges they prepared for. While it was disappointing to lose, it was refreshing to note that the games were played in good spirit and in a very professional manner.” Jiawan posited that overall, OSCL is gratified that the event

was a success, and extended kudos to all who contributed. In response, GSCL president Ian John expressed thanks to Jiawan for her kind words and compliments to the executives and members of the league. “We are overwhelmed to have served you and all the participants in the 2019 edition of the Prime Minister T20 Softball Cup and look forward to your continued commitment and involvement in future competitions,” John assured. Meanwhile,. OSCL also disclosed that Orlando Cup 3 is set for March 20, 21 and 22, 2020. The tournament will be competed in three categories -- All Stars, Masters Over-45, and Legends Over-50. The OSCL pointed out that the relevant rules and regulations together with other registration details will be forthcoming at a later date. The OSCL also reminded that “these games have become a hallmark that is treasured by all teams and resonates with a nostalgic sense of excitement to players, families and friends.”

BCB/Banks DIH Ltd two-day first division tournament bowls off today AFTER an absence of over fifteen years, two-day first division cricket returns to Berbice with the start of the Banks Beer/Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) tournament today. Eight teams are participating in the tournament and would be vying for a combined overall prize package of $400,000 and trophies. The eight teams are West Berbice, Blairmont, Tucber Park, Young Warriors, Albion, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour and Rose Hall Canje. At Area ‘H’ Ground, Rose Hall Town Thunderbolt Flour will be spearheaded by Shawn Pereira, Eon Hooper, Junior Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Delbert Hicks,

Jonathan Rampersaud and Keith Simpson against Rose Hall Canje. The visitors will depend heavily on Ameer Rahaman, Michael Campbelle, Isaiah Thorne, Sasenarine Sukhu, Lloyd David and Joel Seitram. Archrivals Albion and Port Mourant battle at the Albion ground. The home team includes former West Indies leg- spinner Devendra Bishoo, Kelvin Umroa, Adrian Sukhwa, Kandasammy Surujnarine, Anthonio February, Sarwan Chaitnarine, Beesham Surujnarine and Ritesh Umroa. Port Mourant, who is currently in a rebuilding stage, feature names like Demetri Cameron, Arif Chan, Kellon Carmichael, Rampertab Ramnauth,

Devendra Bishoo

Salim Khan and Madhan Budram. Blairmont and West Berbice clash at the Blairmont ground with both teams being even on paper. The youthful Blairmont team includes Seon Glasgow, Marvon Prashad,

Javed Karim, Waqar Hassan, Nigel Deodat and the experienced Shabeer Baksh. West Indies ‘A’ player Keon Joseph, Adrian Dutchin, Shamar Angel, Joshua VanTull, Christopher Bissoon and Keyron Fraser. The final match in the first round features Young Warriors against Tucber Park at the Cumberland ground and that promises to be a thriller. Young Warriors would be guided by Ishwar Singh, Alex Algoo, Trevon Stanislaus, Seon Hetmyer, Suresh Dhanai, Devendra Ramoutar and Ricardo Ramdehol. A confident Tucber Park CC have so far reached the final of the Stag Beer 50 overs tournament include Garfield

Germany not among Euro 2020 favourites - Loew BERLIN, Germany (Reuters) - Germany will not be among the tournament favourites if they qualify for next year’s Euro 2020, coach Joachim Loew said yesterday ahead of their final two qualifiers. The Germans, who take on Belarus today before facing Northern Ireland on Tuesday, are level with leaders Netherlands on 15 points. Northern Ireland are third on 12. The top two earn automatic qualification and Germany could qualify as early as today. “We don’t belong to the tournament favourites,” Loew told reporters. “France, England have been playing with the same players for years. There are the Dutch, Spain.”

“We, with our young team, are not among the favourites because we are still in the process of change.” The Germans suffered a shock group-stage exit at last year’s World Cup and were relegated in the inaugural Nations League, promoting a major overhaul of the team. “Maybe in two or four years when the players are at their peak! I mean a lot is possible with this team and we are working on that because it does have a lot of quality.” Loew has had to struggle with a lot of absences in recent months and his young team has rarely played with the same starting lineup, delaying, as he said, its development.

Coach Joachim Loew

“We have had games where we played really well over 45 minutes and when I was surprised at how well some things worked,”

he said. “But we have not yet managed to do it over 90 minutes against tough opponents. That is the job we have.” Loew said the situation was similar to that of the 2010 World Cup when injuries had forced several last-minute changes and the young team that included Mats Hummels, Jerome Boateng, Mesut Ozil and Manuel Neuer - reached the semi-finals. It also formed the backbone for the 2014 title-winning team in Brazil. “It is a bit like the situation in 2010. But to play for the title will be difficult. There are things that are possible but we don’t have the ‘favourites’ role this time,” said Loew.

Superb Spain destroy Malta 7-0 to win group CADIZ, Spain (Reuters) - Spain clinched top spot in Group F in style by hammering Malta 7-0 at home on Friday for their biggest win of their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign as seven players got on the scoresheet. Spain had sealed their place at next year’s tournament last month in unconvincing fashion by drawing 1-1 with both Norway and Sweden but they created a party atmosphere in Cadiz with a superb display of attacking football. Alvaro Morata put them on their way to a resounding victory by netting midway through the first half, scoring for the seventh consecutive game for club and country. Santi Cazorla doubled their lead shortly before halftime with his first goal for his country in over four years, a special moment for the much-loved 34-year-old who has staged a remarkable recovery from a career-threatening foot injury. Robert Moreno’s side turned on the style in the second half, with defender Pau Torres marking his debut with a goal in the 62nd minute and Pablo Sarabia also netting for the first time for Spain less than 60 seconds later. Dinamo Zagreb striker Dani Olmo then came off the bench to make his Spain debut and moments later marked the occasion by scoring his side’s fifth goal, while Gerard Moreno soon followed by scoring his first goal for Spain.

Spain’s Santi Cazorla celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates.(REUTERS/Marcelo del Pozo)

Jesus Navas scored the most impressive strike of the evening for goal number seven, finding the top corner from outside the area, while substitute Paco Alcacer was not far away from hitting goal number eight when he rattled the post. Spain lead the standings with 23 points from nine matches, five more than second-placed Sweden.

Kevlon Anderson

Benjamin, Martin Singh, Leon Swammy, Gevon Shultz, Zeynul Ramsammy

and Anthony D Andrade among others. All matches start at 10.00hrs and conclude at 17.00hrs, with a minimum of 90 overs to be bowled for that day. For the first time in Berbice, bonus points will feature for both bowling and batting. In an effort to promote the importance of developing fast bowlers, 0.2 points would be given for every wicket taken by a fast bowler. The top two teams in each zone would advance to the semifinals. RHT Thunderbolt Flour, Albion, Port Mourant, RH Canje are in Zone B while Zone A consists of Blairmont, Young Warriors, Tucber Park and West Berbice.

Zverev seals semi-final spot, Nadal out despite win

Germany’s Alexander Zverev celebrates after winning his group stage match against Russia’s Daniil Medvedev Action Images via Reuters/Tony O’Brien

LONDON (Reuters) - Defending champion Alexander Zverev reached the last four at the ATP Finals with a 6-4 7-6(4) defeat of Russian debutant Daniil Medvedev on Friday and consigned Rafael Nadal to an early exit at the same time. The 22-year-old German served superbly throughout and held his nerve in the second-set tiebreak to notch a second group victory to claim second spot ahead of world number one Nadal. Spaniard Nadal had earlier beaten group winner Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-7(4) 6-4 7-5 in a near three-hour battle to keep his hopes alive but needed Medvedev to do him a favour by beating Zverev. Medvedev, 23, dropped his opening service game and never made much of an impression on his opponent’s serve. He double-faulted at 3-4 in the tiebreak to give Zverev a two-point lead and Zverev finished it off with an ace. While it was a great night for Zverev it was disappointing for those who had hoped to see a Nadal versus Roger Federer semi-final on Saturday. Greek debutant Tsitsipas will face six-time champion Federer while Zverev will face Austrian Dominic Thiem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 16, 2019

Ponting’s verdict on Test future for Marsh, Khawaja FORMER Australia skipper Ricky Ponting says Shaun Marsh’s days as a Test cricketer are most likely all but over and hinted that Usman Khawaja’s future prospects may also be dented by a need to regenerate Australia’s batting line-up ahead of their next Ashes campaign. Marsh (36) and Khawaja (33 next month) were among the notable omissions from Australia’s Test squad announced Thursday, the experienced duo not included in a top seven for next week’s Brisbane Test that is set to feature just two players – Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head – under the age of 30. Ponting has long been an advocate of Khawaja, who was dropped during the Ashes this year but had been backed to return this summer given he averages 53 in Tests at home. Ponting stopped short of declaring Khawaja’s Test career over but said Australian selectors must bring some younger batsmen into the side ahead of their next showdown against England in the summer of 2021-22. “That’s a tough question to answer; are they looking past him?” Ponting told cricket.com.au of Khawaja, who has averaged 35 in his past 20 Tests. “Everything they need to be doing now is building towards the next Ashes series. It’s always important a couple of years out to start building if you have those young players there to bring in. “I don’t know if they’ve put a line through him. But all anyone can do is go back and make runs in Shield cricket and hopefully he can do that. “He just hasn’t got enough Shield runs, bottom line. “I’m probably a little bit surprised that he’s not playing.

I’ve always been a big supporter of him, and he’s always been a highly-talented player who does excel in Australia. “One thing he’s done is improved his play of spin. There was always a knock on him playing spin; he’s improved that and if anything, his play against fast bowling has let him down in the last 12-18 months.” Ponting knows better than most the risks involved with not having a varied age demographic in a Test side having watched Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, Justin Langer, Damien Martyn and Adam Gilchrist all retire in the space of 12 months more than a decade ago. Similarly, Michael Clarke, Chris Rogers, Shane Watson and Brad Haddin all retired following the 2015 Ashes series, with Mitchell Johnson joining them three months later. Ponting believes 21-year-old Will Pucovski would have been given a chance this summer had he not made himself unavailable for mental-health reasons, saying the Victorian is a prime example of a young batting talent that needs to be exposed to Test level before the next blockbuster series against England. “The best teams I played in always had an ability to bring a youngster in at No.5 and No.6,” he said. “That’s the way I started and a lot of guys I played with came in down the order … then eventually moved up. “I’m sure that was the plan with Pucovski, which makes it all the more disappointing for him. “Reading between the lines, it looked like he would have been a part of that squad. That’s terrible news for him and obviously we wish him all the best.

Batsmen Shaun Marsh (left) and Usman Khawaja

“That regeneration is always really important. You can’t afford to get to the stage that we got to, where we had four or five or six guys retire basically in the one year. You’ve got to try and avoid that.” While Labuschagne and Head (both 25) are the only members in the top seven for next week’s Test in their twenties, Steve Smith (30), Joe Burns (30) and Matthew Wade (31) are still relatively young, while David Warner (33) and Tim Paine (34) could also conceivably be available the next time Australia face England. But Ponting said the omission of Marsh, one of the leading run-scorers in the Marsh Sheffield Shield so far this season, indicated his 38-Test career may well be over. “He’s the form player in Shield cricket and the fact they haven’t picked him now probably means his time is up,” he said of Marsh, who will be 38 when England next arrive in Australia. “There’s no doubt what a talent he is … but if he was going to get picked, it would be in this series.” (AAP)

Carter, Boucher put Pride in command of Group A BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Captain Jonathan Carter and opener Leniko Boucher struck unbeaten half-centuries in a century stand as Barbados Pride beat Leeward Islands Hurricanes for the second time in three days to install them as favourites in Group A of the Super50 Cup. Asked to chase a paltry 185 at Conaree here Friday, Pride romped to their target in the 31st over to pull off an emphatic nine-wicket win and storm to the top of the Group with their fourth victory in five matches. Carter was at the forefront of his side’s success, uncorking a 58-ball 69 not out with nine fours and a Jonathan Carter … saw Barbados Pride to victory with an unbeaten half-century.

brace of sixes while fellow left-hander Boucher struck eight fours and a six in a 75ball knock. The pair put on an enterprising 117 for the second wicket after opener Kjorn Ottley had carved out a 38-ball 41 before retiring hurt. Discarded West Indies opener Kieran Powell had earlier crafted an attractive 88 from 123 balls but Hurricanes suffered a batting meltdown as captain Jahmar Hamilton (32) and Terrance Ward (28) were the only other ones to reach double figures. Fast bowler Roshon Primus snatched four for 47 while off-spinner Ashley Nurse picked up two for 29

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ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ:

Shai Hope-229 runs Ashgar Afghan-124 runs TODAY’S QUIZ:

Which WI took most wickets in the recent ODI series against AFG? series? (2) Which Afghanistan player took most wickets? (1)

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

With his dismissal, Hurricanes lost their last five wickets for just 22 runs in quick time as Primus and Nurse combined to slice through the lower order. In reply, Pride ensured there were no early hiccups as Boucher initially put on 56 off 61 balls for the first wicket with Ottley who struck seven fours and a six before being struck on the helmet by a short ball from fast bowler Quinton Boatswain and being forced off. Three overs later, new batsman Nicholas Kirton missed a pull at off-spinner Ward and was lbw for one in the 14th over but Carter joined Boucher to put the game to bed.

Romania’s bodyguard bowler set for Australia after visa granted

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(a) (b)

in support. Choosing to bowl first, Pride made early inroads through Primus who struck twice as Hurricanes slipped to 43 for four in the 15th over. Powell then mounted two half-century rescue missions, posting 68 for the fifth wicket with Hamilton and a further 51 for the sixth wicket with Ward. Left-hander Powell, already with a century in the tournament, struck nine fours and a six before he was sixth out in the 43rd over, top-edging a hook at Primus for wicketkeeper Tevyn Walcott to take a brilliant catch running three-quarter way back to the boundary.

Pavel Florin became a cult figure after footage of his unorthodox bowling style went viral on social media earlier this year.

(REUTERS) - A Romanian amateur cricketer, who became a cult figure after footage of his unorthodox bowling style went viral on social media, is set to fulfil his dream of playing a match in Australia after finally being granted a tourist visa. Forty-year-old Pavel Florin, a bodyguard by profession, was initially mocked for his ungainly action and looping deliveries while playing for Cluj Cricket Club during the European Cricket League in July but captured the Australian public’s imagination with his response. “Maybe someone says my bowling is not beautiful or not effective, but I don’t care, because I love cricket,” he said, a reaction that was praised by former Australia bowler Shane Warne, among others. Melbourne-based Surrey Hills Cricket Club invited him to play for them as a guest but his dream appeared to have been shattered when his application for a tourist visa was refused. However, Florin said on Twitter yesterday that the visa had now been granted and he was set to play tomorrow. The club also confirmed the news, inviting the public “to see the great man in action”.

MACORP scores 1 Million goal; promises continued support MACHINE Corporation of Guyana Ltd (MACORP) has made its debut as a partner with Guyana‘s football development with a huge One Million goal which even VAR could not dispute but welcome. The sponsorship cheque was presented to GFF president Wayne Forde by Chief Financial Officer/Human Resources Manager of MACORP, Anita Ramprasad, last Thursday afternoon, following a brief but significant ceremony, which included Managing Director Guillermo Escarraga, other staff members. Chairman was MLC trainer, Bonard Joseph. As the only authorised Caterpillar dealer in Guyana, MACORP stated that the company has always embraced and supported initiatives of development across the board since it’s their corporate responsibility in helping to mould and build Guyana. The company also said that they have been following the positive progress of football under the Wayne Forde led administration. Managing Director, Mr Escarraga in his remarks postulated that it was a pleasure to host the GFF at such a ceremony to officially start what is anticipated to be a long and mutually fruitful relationship. “We recognise the work that you have done and that work is what has made us interested in entering this partnership with the Guyana Football Federation. We’ve seen the progress that football has been making in Guyana. We’ve seen that for the first time you’ve qualified for Gold Cup in the history of the sport in Guyana. This is very remarkable. And we see a lot of potential in the future of the development of football and we want to be part of it, and this is the first step in this relationship that we hope continues for the development of the sport.” Escarraga expressed confidence that with the leadership of president Forde, Guyana will continue to climb the ladder of development positively in a holistic way. “MACORP stands behind .the Guyana Football Federation in this quest to get to the higher level. We really believe that the potential is there, we’ve seen the talent, and we’ve seen the opportunities that this creates for communities, for very young individuals, for our own kids and for everybody that really wants to use football as something that would help in their careers and getting better in life as a whole.” Escarraga expressed confidence that the GFF Super 16 Cup will be a wonderful experience and event for all to enjoy. “We’re really excited because we want to reach out, we want to engage our customers in those regions and we want everybody to have a good time and to use football as a way of getting together, socialising and having a good time; and at the same time, helping the players to get some important playing time because at this level, playing time is very important to continue making progress in the right direction.” Ramprasad in her remarks said that it was indeed an honour for the company to be collaborating with GFF, explaining why it was important. “We recently realised that most of what employees know about

work is that you come to work, do the job, get paid and you go home and there’s no real culture beyond that in the workplace. “We’ve recently introduced into our organisation, a sport and recreation committee because we truly believe that the health and wellness of our employees encompasses what they do, how they take care of their bodies and how well their minds are prepared to handle challenges; this is where sport comes in.” Ramprasad further noted that disciplines, such as football, teach employees, youths and even adults the patience of discipline, commitment, dedication and most importantly, teamwork. “Working together for a result that brings you glory and gratitude is indeed an honourable thing that you are working with our country’s youth and the not-so-young to promote such a sport because there are so many things that people can do with their time that is not in their best interest. Sport gives you so many opportunities to relieve your stress as well and you can find talent that maybe one day, may be the next Neymar or Ronaldo, this is where it begins, at this level.” President Forde in extending gratitude to MACORP for a timely boost to the sport and more specifically the GFF Super 16 Cup ®, noted that it is an exciting moment for the GFF to enter into a new relationship/partnership with one of the leading companies in Guyana. “I am so pleased to hear the values of the company being brought to bear in a sporting activity. For us, football is more than a game, while we look at the global football product and we see an entertainment value that seems to be attracting more emphasis than any other value, in our corner of the world, football is a human development tool.” The GFF boss stated that one might be very much surprised to know that just a small percentage of the population of global footballers would go on to play professionally. “More than 98% of the people who play the ball, whether through structured programmes or for recreational purposes will only play that aspect of football. It is the few who are most talented and gifted that we will adore and admire when they weave their talent on the big screen. So, much of what we do is to add values to the lives of the people that we bring into our football fraternity.” Forde, who was given a second four-year mandate by the GFF members to lead the sport expressed optimism that this new partnership with MACORP would be an enduring one stating that the enormity of the challenges that the GFF undertakes daily to develop the game, relies heavily, on partnerships. “I am very happy, I’m actually moved by the fact that MACORP sees the GFF in such good light and good stead. I want to give you my assurance and commitment on behalf of my executive committee and the staff that we would do everything in our power to deliver a competition worthy of the investment you are making. I look forward to a partnership that reciprocates value for both organisations.”

Victoria 180th Anniversary Inter-Block football kicks off today THE inaugural 180th Anniversary Inter-Block football tournament will kick off tonight at the Victoria Community Centre ground, featuring four blocks – Belfield Scheme, Road Side, Middle Section and Back Dam, where the winner will pocket $100 000. The tournament will be played in a Round-Robin format, and the two teams will advance to the final. Today’s double-header will see Back Dam and Scheme colliding from 18:00hrs, followed by Road Side vs Middle Section. The action will continue tomorrow with Middle Section taking on Scheme from 16:00hrs, followed by Back Dam vs Road Side. Apart from the winner’s purse, donated by the Ashton Luke Foundation and Magnum Tonic Wine, the second-place team will pocket $50 000, compliments of

MVP Sports, and the Giftland Mall-located store will also present a pair of Nike Phantom Vision football cleats to the player named Most Valuable (MVP) at the end of the

tournament. The Most Disciplined Team will also receive $20 000. GUYOIL, George Clemenson Pharmacy, Dr Desmond Nicholson, Dr

Organiser Kurt Warren (first from left), receives the event’s first-place trophy from GUYOIL’S Marlyn Lewis and Berkeley McCalmon.

Karen Cummings, Dexter Whaul, Samuel Francis, Park Square Fun City, Sign Art and the Victoria Ground Committee are the other sponsors on board.

Co-Organiser Lynton Luke and an MVP Sports Representative

Chief Financial Officer Human Resources Manager of MACORP, Mrs Anita Ramprasad, and GFF president Wayne Forde hold up the ceremonial cheque during the presentation.

By Stephan Sookram

Grudge matches in Clash of Champions begin today 30 PAGE

ALL the bad blood, racing grudges and other issues will be put on the line from today as Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) hosts its Clash of Champions international event. The two-day event begins today with qualifying and three races. Street Tuner and Miracle Optical Sport Tuner Considered the group one of circuit racing, a lot of drivers have made their entry from here. The Sport Tuner itself has a particularly interesting battle brewing from the last race meet. An alleged fuel irregularity against Raymond Seebarran has put him plumb in the path of Shan Seejatan and that battle will be renewed later today when they meet on the track. While the battle may have come down to just banter in the last few days, definite undercurrents will flow. GROUP TWO Possibly one of the most competitive groups on race day, fans are often kept on their toes during this race. Coming out of the last event, there is definitely going to be a point to prove between Shan Seejatan and former Caribbean group three champion Paul Vieira. The duo went toe-to-toe at the last instance with Vieira finishing a close second but this time around, who knows the outcome? Toss in Rameez Mohamed, Chet Singh, Trinidad’s Aaron Achan and Darrel Singh and Barbados Ahmed Esuf and there is sure to be a more mouthwatering prospect. GROUP THREE The returning Stefan Jeffrey renews his battle with Vishok Persaud in this class after the former had mechanical issues in the last round. Still, they will have to fight with longstanding group three campaigner, Danny Persuad, as well as the Toyota Starlet crew of Rameez Mohamed, Motilall Deodass and Anand Ramchand. STARLET CUP Again, the big three in Rameez Mohamed, Motilall Deodass and Anand Ramchand will meet on the track to decide the best of the best but returning drivers Syad

FLASHBACK: Racing cars at a previous meet doing a lap of honour

WBA Super Flyweight fight

Dharry battles, but falls to Australia’s Moloney in the 9th round

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Andrew Maloney (right) lands a punch to the face of Guyana’s Elton Dharry during their Interim WBA super flyweight title fight in Australia. (AAP photo)

GFF president nominated to Organising Committee for CONCACAF Competitions FOLLOWING the recent show of confidence by the membership of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) by giving GFF president Wayne Forde a new mandate for another four-year term, CONCACAF has shown similar sureness by nominating Forde as a Member to the Organising Committee for CONCACAF Competitions. CONCACAF General Secretary, Philippe Maggio, wrote to Forde on November 12 confirming the nomination. Forde, who previously served on the CONCACAF Governance Committee from November 2016, expressed delight at being able to continue to serve the sport at the highest level in the Confederation. He said that his usual high level of service would continue as he and colleagues work collectively to bring out the best in all 41 Member Associations of CONCACAF. “I welcome every opportunity to serve football and will bring the same energy and commitment I brought to the CONCACAF Governance Committee. During my tenure on the Governance Committee, we successfully piloted many important policies which continue to inform the work of the Confederation. As it relates to my goal for the Competition Committee, I would like to offer a Caribbean perspective of the impact and challenges, the welcome increase in international competitions has had on the countries within our Region.”

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GFF president Wayne Forde

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2019