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• Thursday January 3 2019. • Vol 37, #05 • Serving the community for 36 years. www.equalitynewspaper.com Jamaica, Cuba remain ‘tight’ Decades after the bond of friendship be- At present, 291 health professionals tween Jamaica and Cuba was developed work in Jamaica, while 71 Cubans are teach- while the late Michael Manley and Fidel ing in state-operated educational institutions, Castro were at the helm of their respective "You know, many people have said for countries, Cuba's Ambassador to Jamaica the first time in 60 years there is no Castro Inez Fors Fernandez has declared that the re- in Cuba. But Jamaicans need not worry that lationship remains tight. the relationship will not continue, because "Cuba remains a friend of Jamaica. The Jamaica is a friend of Cuba, Cuba is a friend country, and its people, have the love of the of Jamaica," said Fors Fernadez, as she un- Cuban people," Fors Fernandez told The derscored that the personal friendship be- Sunday Gleaner in an interview last week, tween Manley and Fidel Castro brought both days before her country marks the 60th an- countries together. niversary of the Cuban Revolution. Fors Fernandez said the relationship be- Fors Fernandez spent her first Christmas tween the two countries will be strengthened in Jamaica last week, and expressed pleasure under new Cuban President Miguel Diaz- serving as her country's ambassador to Ja- Canel, who was a toddler during the 1960 maica. revolution which installed Fidel Castro as She also thanked the Jamaican people for president. the warmth and love shown to her since she "The Cuban Revolution is a symbol for most of the developing countries all over the world. We do not have too many resources. Inez Fors Fernandez, Cuba’s ambassador to Jamaica. LINUS ALI, We are a poor third-world country, but we LL.B., BL, LL.M, came here, saying she could Jamaica has been there with Cuba, and that have given a lot to most of the developing PH.D easily pass for a Jamaican. friendship is the reason why so many Cuban world, including Jamaica," she said with BARRISTER & SOLICITOR, "You know, Jamaica still health professionals are here, and teachers, pride. NOTARY PUBLIC has the love of Cuban people. too," said Fors Fernandez. Criminal Defence • Family Law • Real Estate • Immigration INDIAN ASTROLOGER,ASTROLOGER,OGEER, PSYCHICPSYYCCHIC & PPALMISTPAALMALMIST SPECIALISTSSPPECIALPECECCIAIAALLIISST FORTUNEFOFORORRTRTTUNTUNE TELLERTTEELLLLER FROMFFRROMO IINDIAINND 1110 Finch Avenue West, PPandith:andith: RRAGHAVENDRAPANDITAGHA SAIAVVENDR RAM A RRAJAJ Suite 308, PALMPPAAALLMLM READINGRREAEAADDIINNG * FFAFACEACCE READINGRREAEAADDIINNG * HHOHOROSCOPEORROOSSCOPSCCOOPPE PASSEDPPAASSED DODOWNWN FRFROMOM GENERGENERATIONAATTION TOTO GENERATIONGENERAATTION Toronto, Ontario M3J 2T2 YYOUOU ARE NOTNOT LIVING, YYOYOUOU ARE SURSURVIVINGRVVIVING MEET ME ONCE & SEE THE DIFFERENCE Tel: 416-901-0254 AnAn EExpertxpert PandithPandith At youryour service!service! PPast,ast, PresentPresent & futurefuture off youryour life,life job, love,lol ve, business, sickness, education,education, SEE WEEKLY Cell: 416-839-5660 emploemployment,p yment, marriamarriage,i ge, court,court, enemy,enemyy,, black mamagic,gic, secret matters etc. ALL SPECIALIST IN BRINGING BACKBACK LOVEDLOVED ONES... OPEN SPECIALS Fax: 1-855-214-2563 RELIGIONS 7 DAYSDAAAYYS [email protected] WELCOMEWELCOME ! 778-237-8215778-27788-2-237-8215377-82215 10 AM - 7 PM ON BACK PAGE www.linusalilaw.com 647-388-4697 121 -639 75 Markham AAvenue,venue, Road , SurSurrey,Scarboroughreyy,, BC 2 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 3 Exxon drilling two new wells offshore Guyana in January

Just weeks after its 10th major find, The drill site is approximately 111.4 nau- ExxonMobil is gearing up to begin drilling tical miles from the coast of Guyana and for oil at two separate locations offshore covers an area of one square kilometer. Guyana. Meanwhile, on January 2nd, 2019, These plans haven’t been affected by the EEPGL will begin a three-month operation interruption of the gathering of seismic data at the Haimara-1 well site. The Stena Carron in the western part of the Liza-1 block fol- is the drillship and it will also be supported lowing an incursion into Guyana’s waters by by the same vessels being used for the the Venezuelan Navy. Tilapia-1 well. According to advertisements in last Sun- On December 3rd, ExxonMobil an- day Stabroek, Exxon’s local subsidiary, Esso nounced that it had made its 10th discovery Exploration and Production Guyana Limited offshore Guyana since May 2015 and in- (EEPGL) is set to begin a three-month creased its estimate of the discovered recov- drilling operation on January 5th, 2019 at the erable resource for the Stabroek Block to The Noble Tom Madden Tilapia-1 well site within the Stabroek more than 5 billion oil-equivalent barrels. Block. Tilapia-1 is located 3.4 miles (5.5 The 10th well was Pluma-1. dent. “We will continue to apply what we’ve sandstone reservoir. The Noble Tom Madden kilometers) west of the Longtail-1 well. “The discovery of a resource base of learned to identify additional exploration drillship began drilling on Nov. 1. The well Eleven vessels will be involved in this oper- more than 5 billion oil-equivalent barrels in prospects and potential future discoveries is located approximately 17 miles (27 kilo- ation: Noble Tom Madden, M/V Cat Island, less than four years is a testament of our that will deliver significant value to meters) south of the Turbot-1 well.” M/V Eland, M/V Oryx, Clarence Triche, technical expertise and rigorous evaluation Guyanese people, our partners and share- The Liza Phase 1 development is ex- Liam J Mc Call, Paradise Island, Sanibel Is- and pursuit of high-potential, high-risk op- holders.” Exxon had said that the Pluma-1 pected to begin producing up to 120,000 bar- land, Horn Island, Robert Adams and Jack portunities in this frontier area,” said Neil well encountered approximately 121 feet (37 rels oil per day by early 2020, utilizing the Edwards. Chapman, ExxonMobil senior vice presi- meters) of high-quality hydrocarbon-bearing Liza Destiny floating storage. Guyana President opens door to political cooperation with opposition PPP

Guyana President David Granger has as- sured the nation that the government remains committed to working with the Opposition in 2019. Police probing dissenting In fact, he indicated in his New Year’s address to the nation that recent develop- ments in the National Assembly have created more opportunities for the two sides to work MP together. “Recent developments in the National Days after leaving the country following a historic vote causing the Coalition Assembly have created opportunities for en- Government in Guyana to fall, Member of Parliament, Charrandass Persaud, is facing hanced political cooperation. Meetings be- a police probe. tween the Government and Opposition will Police Commissioner, Leslie James confirmed that indeed a probe was ongoing take place in the New Year to discuss and de- involving Persaud, who has since been expelled by his party, the Alliance For Change termine the way forward for our country. (AFC). “Your government is prepared to work James said that the case is one of national security. with the opposition to ensure that our na- The confirmation would come hours after one media house reported that police tional objectives are achieved and that 2019 were probing allegations that Charrandass Persaud made attempts to purchase US$1M can be a satisfactory year for all,” Granger ($200M) in gold from a miner, days before that December 21, 2018 vote in the Na- stated. tional Assembly. On December 21, the National Assembly There were screen shots from a Whatsapp number purportedly between the MP passed a motion of no confidence against the and another person, supposedly discussing a purchase. President and his Government. Opposition It is unclear how the screen grab was acquired and what that has to do, if anything, Leader, , while calling on the with the investigations by the police. Government to resign with immediate effect The Coalition Government is exploring a number of legal options, and has asked as a result of the Motion has indicated his the Speaker of the House, Dr. Barton Scotland, to reverse the results of the no-confi- willingness to meet with the President to dis- dence vote. cuss the way forward. Persaud’s ‘yes’ vote saw the Opposition motion filed by leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, While the Government is open to the dis- David Granger being carried 33-32. cussion, it has challenged the validity of the Government this week said that based on precedence-setting court cases outside no confidence vote in the National Assem- “Guyanese can expect, by the end of the the jurisdiction, the no-confidence vote was not carried as it required 34 votes. bly. new year, to live in a state with more secure The MP reportedly sold his Prado SUV and handed over his Berbice law office The president indicated that the National borders; communities that are safer; an econ- to a magistrate days before the vote. Assembly and the Judiciary are the bedrock omy that is more resilient; a society that is His flight was booked and he flew out of Guyana to Canada hours after the vote. of the democracy. more cohesive and public services that are He is said to share dual citizenship with both Guyana and Canada, a matter which “Your government remains committed to more easily accessible,” Granger noted. is also being contested in context of the legality of the vote which bars MPs from upholding the Constitution, preserving the “Your government starts the year by swearing allegiance to another country and still be a member. rule of law and guaranteeing a safe, stable, recommitting to consolidating Guyana as a Government officials said that they are analyzing information that the defection orderly and peaceful country. We respect the safe society with a stable economy and was well-planned and that monies were exchanged. courts which protect our institutions and sys- strong parliamentary democracy. The Con- With the matter setting Guyana in uncharted waters, there has been debate about tem of democracy,” the President affirmed. stitution is supreme,” Granger noted. what law exactly Persaud would have broken if it is proven he took monies for the Granger said that he is confident that life The President departed Guyana on vote. The vote caused the Coalition Government, just three and half years into its for all Guyanese will continue to improve in Christmas Day for Cuba to undergo another five-year term, to fall. 2019. round of chemotherapy. 4 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS

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A GOVERNMENT delegation led by 33. After the 2015 elections we have a situ- Guyana Prime Minister ation where the government has 33 seats and met with members of the diplomatic commu- the opposition 32. We want to be able to set- nity on the vote of no-confidence motion tle this issue as to what constitutes under the brought against the A Partnership for Na- constitution a majority of all the elected tional Unity + Alliance for Change members and no amount of lobbying, no (APNU+AFC) Government, and put for- amount of politicking and the rhetoric out ward its position that the vote is of no effect there that the government should resign will because the opposition had not secured an resolve this,” he said. absolute majority. Amid calls by the opposition – the Peo- The high level meeting took place on ple’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the Monday with representatives from the Amer- government to resign, Prime Minister Nag- ican, British, Canadian and European Mis- amootoo made it clear that the government sions in Guyana. The prime minister was will remain in Office and execute its func- accompanied by Vice-President and Minister tions in keeping with the requirements under of Public Security, ; and the Constitution. Minister of State Joseph Harmon. “We are not aware of any provision in the Prime Minister Nagamootoo said during constitution for a care taker government. In the meeting the government explained in full fact we have been the government since we its position on the contentious vote of no- have been elected and we continue to be the confidence, and assured the diplomats that it Government officials with members of the diplomatic community government until fresh elections are held and respects the constitution and will uphold it. a new government will come into office,” he “We presented the representatives of the that there was a miscalculation. Government “The Cabinet including the President shall said. ABC and E countries with legal opinions is arguing that an absolute majority in the 65- resign if the government is defeated by the The prime minister said government will that were given to the government by ex- Member National Assembly equals 34 and vote of a majority of all the elected members continue to engage members of the diplo- perts,” he said in a televised recording broad- not 33. of the National Assembly on a vote of confi- matic community and civil society, noting cast by the Department of Public “There are some advocates that said that dence.” that it will continue to uphold the Constitu- Information. you needed 33 votes, some others have said It is government’s belief that the consti- tion and foster a democratic society. “We are Those legal opinions in the form of a you need 34 votes to make a majority. Well tutional requirement for voting on a motion committed to maintaining peace, law and Legal Memorandum were sent to Speaker to there is a contention here, and we believe of no-confidence is distinct from voting on order and the stability of our country, to con- the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland that the promise made by the Speaker that he the passage of legislation and ordinary mo- tinue the work for which we have been for his consideration in reviewing the vote of will deal with the consequences of the vote tions in the National Assembly which re- elected,” he said. the December 21, 2018. At the time, the should be allowed to take place in a manner quires a simple majority. PPP/C had also met with members of the Speaker had declared that the motion was that gives the interpretation as regards the The Prime Minister emphasised that the diplomatic community on the issue. It is an- carried after 33 persons including a Govern- threshold of the constitution,” he posited. current situation presents an opportunity for ticipated that the Speaker will pronounce on ment Member of Parliament Charrandas Per- The prime minister said it may become the courts to give an interpretation on what issues surrounding the vote of no-confidence saud voted in favour of the motion and 32 necessary for the courts to interpret the con- constitutes a majority. when the National Assembly convenes on against. However, the government has since stitutional provision. “In 2011 we had a situation where the Thursday January 3, 2018. asked him to review his ruling on the basis Article 106 (6) of the Constitution states: government had 32 seats and the Opposition Jagdeo rubbishes AG’s claim on dual citizenship

Leader of the Guyanese Opposition, which states that these issues can’t be dealt Bharrat Jagdeo, sought to rubbish the pro- with, retroactively. nouncement by Attorney General, Basil Jagdeo cited Article 165(2) of the Con- Williams, that former Member of Parlia- stitution, which governs Regulation of Pro- ment, Charrandass Persaud, is unqualified to cedure in Parliament, and states that “The serve in the National Assembly because of assembly may act notwithstanding any va- his status as a dual citizen. cancy in its membership (including any va- Williams, in a press conference held cancy not filled when the assembly first hours before Jagdeo’s, cited Article 155 (1) meets after the commencement of this Con- (a) of the Constitution, which states: “No stitution or after any dissolution of Parlia- person shall be qualified for election as a ment) and the presence or participation of member of the National Assembly who is, by any person not entitled to be present at or to virtue of his own act, under any acknowl- participate in the proceedings of the Assem- edgement of allegiance, obedience, or adher- bly shall not invalidate those proceedings.” ence to a foreign power or state.” “Even if you have someone there, in lay- The Attorney General had said that this man’s language, who may not have been constitutional provision voids Persaud’s legally there at that time, it does not invali- vote, which he cast on December 21, last. date the proceeding. I think it’s quite clear.” Persaud, who voted in favour of the motion Because of the government’s protests of of no-confidence against A Partnership for the no-confidence vote, Jagdeo said that the National Unity + Alliance for Change opposition will not be attending parliament (APNU/AFC) government, is a citizen of when it reconvenes on January 3, 2019. The both Guyana and Canada. opposition, he stated, will be writing to the Challenging the validity of Persaud’s Guyana opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo Speaker of the House, to notify him of the vote in Parliament would also bring into intended absence of the opposition. question, the validity of judgments made by constitution to state that Persaud’s vote is passed before. He further told the press that the opposi- many other members of the National Assem- null and void, the implication would be that He said that if you invalidate his vote on tion would only attend parliament if the pro- bly on both sides of the political divide, who the no-confidence motion would have to be this matter, then nothing would be valid that ceedings relate to the progression of the also have dual citizenship. The government reversed, allowing the government to carry he voted on before. So, it has implications country toward General Elections, as the will only be challenging Charrandass Per- its time in power to term, until General Elec- for all the budgets [and, by extension], the constitution would dictate in the case of a saud’s vote, despite the precedent it will set. tions in 2020. legality of all the government’s actions.” carried no-confidence motion. If the speaker of the house interprets the Jagdeo said that what must be considered The Leader of the Opposition also said is “…what it will do to all the legislation he was advised that there is a principle in law 6 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS EDITORIAL & OPINIONS Uphold the constitution

Last time we checked, mathematics ing that a majority is 34 – which, by our it will be doing so illegally. And Guyana cause it is the right thing to do. was the same around the world. But for calculation, means that there should ac- has had enough of illegal governments As well, we must pay tribute to AFC some reason, it appears to be different in tually be 66 seats in the House. But the in its time, including several rigged ones MP Charrandass Persaud, the lone dis- Guyana. fact is, there are only 65. that kept Forbes Burnham in power for senting voice on the government side, The APNU-AFC government there is The government is insisting, there- decades. for his courage to act in what he thought contending that 33 votes do not represent fore, that the no-confidence motion does As we and the majority (real, not was the best interests of Guyana. a majority in a 65-seat legislature. That’s not carry, and by extension, it is still en- imagined) of Guyanese see it, the refusal Persaud has been vilified for his de- the amount of MPs who voted for a no- titled to legally hold government. by the government to abide by the con- cision, which he justified by saying that confidence motion against the govern- We cannot see how that is constitu- stitution is an attack on democracy. for the three years he sat in parliament, ment on December 21. Thirty-two voted tional. The math just doesn’t work. The bottom line is, no amount of there was a lot of talk but little action by for the government, which, according to Article 106 (6) of the Constitution legal arguments can change the basic the government of which he was a part, the country’s constitution, must now call states: “The Cabinet including the Pres- math that has been applied here. and this motivated him to stand against elections within 90 days. ident shall resign if the government is The government must, therefore, do them when the time was right. According to Prime Minister Moses defeated by the vote of a majority of all the honourable thing and call elections He has denied taking a bribe, or Nagamootoo, however, 33 is not greater the elected members of the National As- within 90 days as dictated by the consti- being paid in any way, to make that de- than 32. At least that’s the argument he sembly on a vote of confidence.” tution. cision. His courage is laudable. has forwarded to the diplomatic commu- That’s what happened. If the APNU- We’re not saying this because we Kudos to him. nity in Georgetown. He is instead insist- AFC chooses to stay in power, therefore, support one party over the other, but be- Historic happenings in parliament

By Donald Ramotar just as readily accepted. To do otherwise what we do to future generations. We would undermine confidence, create in- must always keep the welfare of all Dear fellow members of our large stability and put Guyana right where we Guyanese uppermost in our minds. Guyanese family. As we celebrate an- were in the pre 1992 period. In 2019, let us all resolve to work to- other year in which we have been gifted This must stop. I call for political ma- wards a strengthened united Guyana life, let us pause to take note of this very turity and a sense of nationalism to be firmly based on the principles of democ- critical juncture in our nation’s young displayed. Our nation has the chance to racy and the rule of law so that we can democracy. demonstrate to the world that our build a more beautiful Guyana with a Over the past few weeks we have democracy is strong and mature. We can prosperous economy and people. This is seen some historic happenings in our begin the new year more united than not the time for petty partisanship and Parliament that saw the government los- ever showing that we believe in the rule placing personal political ambitions ing its majority. We also witnessed a of law and insisting that our political dif- ahead of the nation. Give Guyana an op- We have simply come too far as a na- very commendable response of accept- ferences must be resolved legally, con- portunity. The race to win is over. We are tion rebuilding its democratic institu- ance of those results by the leader of the stitutionally and by abiding to the all in this together. United as Guyanese tions to be fiddling with whether losing ruling coalition and President of the democratic norms. We must encourage first. a majority in the Parliament in a vote of country. Since then, however, there have our people to make choices on the merits A Happy New Year to the Guyanese no confidence is valid or not. May been rumblings from all kinds of quar- of ideas and proposals. Our sense of pa- family celebrating as one nation, one Guyana display to the world that we ters about rethinking that position. To do triotism must override every other con- people with one destiny. have come of age and just as how peace- so would retard so much of the progress sideration. fully power was transferred in the last made since 1992 when our first free and This is a time when we must not only Donald Ramotar is a former Presi- election so too will this vote recording fair elections in Guyana for decades make decisions based on our present re- dent of Guyana the government’s loss of its majority be were staged. ality, but must look at future impacts of

GUY-TRINI Equality Chief Photographer: Narad Prashad (USA) Advertsing: Marie Sharma (416-759-2359) [email protected]

& South Asian News Contributors: Bobby Verra, USA Kawal Totaram (USA) Leon Saul, Parvati Persaud (Guyana) Legal Advisor: Jailal Kisoon (Guyana|) Gideon Hanooman Singh (T&T) Roop Sharma (Canada) Editor-in-Chief: Bhaskar Sharma Jai Maharaj 868 762-4549 (Caribbean) Editor-in Chief: Bhaskar Sharma Chet Sharma (Canada) [email protected] [email protected] Ramko Kalicharan (Florida) Niraj Sharma (Toronto) Creative Solutions & Layout: Co-Publisher: Nishad Sharma Vishnu Bisram (New York) www.EqualityNews.ca Co-Publisher: Nishad Sharma Equality News International is published by Equality News Incorporated. Youth & Sport: Avishkar Sharma 1560 Brimley Rd; Suite 206, Scarborough, Ontario, M1P 3G9 Canada, Tel: 416-759-6397, Fax: 416-759-5359, Email: [email protected] EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 7

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Aries (March 21-April 19) Expect a few surprises from partners and close friends today. It could be minor. In a few cases, it might be major! Someone might want to re- define the relationship? Taurus (April 20-May 20) Your work routine will be in- terrupted today, more likely this afternoon. Staff short- ages, power outages, computer problems, misplaced paperwork or minor accidents might occur. Gemini (May 21-June 20) Parents should be extra vigi- lant because this is an accident-prone day for your kids. Meanwhile, social plans might suddenly be cancelled or Veteran Bollywood actor Kader Khan -- hospitalised in Canada go sideways. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Do what you can to keep the Veretan actor Kader Khan to peace at home and within the family today because something might throw a wrench in the works. A female be buried in Canada family member might be unhappy. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Pay attention to everything you Veteran actor-writer Kader Khan, who died on dementia. say and do today because this is a mildly accident-prone New Year’s Eve, will be buried Wednesday at a Born in Kabul, Khan’s family migrated to day for you. However, new faces and new places will cemetery in Canada, his son Sarfaraz said. Khan Mumbai when he was a year old. died after a prolonged illness at a hospital in Khan went on to write dialogues for over 250 make this a stimulating day as well. Canada. He was 81. films, including some of the biggest blockbusters Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Something unexpected might “The last rites will be performed here in of the ’70s and ’80s such as Dharam Veer, Ganga impact your assets and your money today. Therefore, Canada as we have our entire family here. He Jamuna Saraswati, Coolie, Desh Premee, Suhaag, keep your eyes open. You might find money; you might (Khan) is going to be buried at approximately 2:30 Parvarish, Amar Akbar Anthony, Sharaabi, pm as per Canadian time at Meadowvale ceme- Lawaaris and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar. lose money. Guard your possessions against loss, theft tery,” Sarfaraz told PTI. He was equally prolific as an actor after mak- or damage. Khan was reportedly suffering from progres- ing his screen debut in 1973 with Rajesh Khanna’s Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Today the Moon is in your sign sive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative disease that Daag. He featured in a variety of character roles in causes loss of balance, difficulty in walking and over 300 films. for most of the day; however, it opposes wild, wacky Uranus this afternoon. This makes you excitable and im- pulsive! However, it could trigger a situation where you are upset by someone. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This is a restless day for you. Relationships with others might be a bit tense. Some of you are in for some kind of emotional surprise – perhaps news that you least expected to hear. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Your relationship to a friend or perhaps a group will trigger something un- usual or surprising today. Someone might make an un- expected demand of you or they might do something weird or different. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This is a tricky day when dealing with parents and bosses because something that you aren’t expecting might occur. If it restricts or con- fines you or limits your freedom – you won’t be happy! Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Travel plans might be can- celled or changed today. Alternatively, you might sud- denly have to travel when you did not expect to do so. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Double check all dealings re- garding inheritances, shared property and insurance is- sues because something unexpected might impact these MRINAL SEN DIES: Legendary filmmaker Mrinal Sen died at his south Kolkata residence on Sunday areas in your life. Don’t be caught napping. When it following old age complications, said his family member. Sen, 95, a widower, left behind his only son Kunal. Sen, who was ailing for a long time, breathed his last at his Bhowanipore home around 10am. West Bengal comes to finances and money – stay on top of things! Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has condoled Sen's death. EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 9 One killed, one injured in gunfight at wedding reception in Trelawney

Guests had to flee in panic last Friday incident said Bernard, who is also a licensed evening as gunshots rang out at a wedding firearm holder, then stood up and fired sev- reception at the Glistening Waters Hotel in eral shots, hitting Campbell multiple times. Falmouth, Trelawny, Jamaica. He died on the spot, while Bernard was When the shooting ended, a disc jockey, taken to hospital where he was admitted. 45-year-old Paul Campbell of Florence Hall Persons close to the couple who ex- in the parish, was dead, and one of the pro- changed vows earlier in the day say they are prietors of the establishment, 38-year-old traumatised by the incident which marred Earl Bernard of a Montego Bay address, was their special occasion. left nursing gunshot wounds. Reports are that Campbell, who was em- ployed by the wedding couple to provide en- tertainment for the reception, was asked to reduce the level of the music by Bernard's mother, but he refused, telling her she had already collected her money, so she was to allow him to earn his. It is alleged that when the elderly woman went back to him with another request for the volume to be lowered, he aggressively pointed his finger into her face and again re- fused. Bernard then intervened, pushing Campbell away from his mother. During the commotion, Campbell, who is a licensed firearm holder, reportedly fell over a flower pot. According to the reports, Campbell pulled his firearm and opened fire on Bernard, hitting him in the neck. Bernard fell to the ground and lay motionless as Campbell went over him with the gun. Persons who claim to have witnessed the The Glisteming Waters Hotel -- scene of the crime Come savor a savory meal at CHARLEY’S Charley's Caribbean Cuisine CARIBBEAN CUISINE For all your holiday Not sure how much food you need? We’ll help you suggest the right catering needs amount of food to minimize your cost. Pork free halal foods. Catering for Hindu releigious events, as well as all Caribbean events. 1158 Morningside Ave, Scarborough (at Morningside) (416) 282-8608

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Amidst speculations that he already used (PNCR) has stated that it has proof that an It states that the weaknesses of campaign an oil tycoon out of Trinidad and Tobago to oil tycoon paid AFC defector, Charrandass finance laws allow the oil and gas industry fund the fall of government, Opposition to vote to bring down his own government. to help elect candidates who support efforts Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo is calling for a public PNCR claims to even have knowledge of the to undermine environmental protections, pact to be signed by all political parties to not hotel where arrangements were made. drive pro-industry legislation and secure tax- take monies from oil companies to finance However, the PNCR provided no evi- payer subsidies to the industry. campaigns for the upcoming elections. dence and no police reports were made. The report adds, “The money flooding Following the events of December 21, Anticorruption advocates have long been into Congress and fueling lobbying efforts of which saw a government Member of Parlia- calling for changes to Guyana’s weak cam- the oil and gas industry has a chilling effect ment (MP) voting with the People’s Progres- paign financing laws. These calls were per- on our democracy. Simply put, oil and gas sive Party Opposition for a sistent over the last three years. interests overshadow the public’s best inter- Jagdeo-sponsored No-Confidence Motion, Advocates believe that the archaic laws ests. Balancing out the economics to incen- elections are expected in three months. leave the door open for influential oil majors tivize positive behaviors over the business This is the first time Guyana will be see- to enter; oil majors with pockets worth more plans of a polluting industry should be at the ing General and Regional Elections after the than the GDPs of 100 countries combined. top of the list for any political party.” public announcements of major oil finds. USA oil giant, ExxonMobil has made it “Instead, policies are manipulated to News of the oil finds made by ExxonMobil clear that it has, and will not, be contributing benefit a sector of the economy that enjoys has triggered an influx of oil and oil-related to election campaigns here. billions in taxpayer subsidies and has whole companies. Many of these companies now However, in its country of origin, Exxon- blocks of politicians willing to vote and in- operate in Guyana. Mobil is a habitual contributor to the election troduce legislation in lockstep with industry Traditionally, businesses operating on cycle. In fact, Exxon is one of the largest en- priorities…” Guyana usually contribute to the elections ergy company contributors to both Republi- Earlier this year, Executive Member of campaign. This is usually unsupervised as can and Democratic candidates for Congress. the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. Guyana has weak campaign financing laws In 2010, ExxonMobil spent $12.5 million on David Hinds, noted that there has been little, and even those weak laws are hardly en- lobbying. It is also a staunch contributor in if any sense of urgency regarding reform to forced. Canada. campaign finance laws. Even when the gov- At his most recent press conference, Apart from USA and Canada, Exxon also ernment indicates that it is willing to address Jagdeo was asked if the People’s Progressive reports on political and lobbying contribu- its promise to beef up anti-corruption legis- Bharrat Jagdeo Party (PPP) will be taking money from oil tions in other countries (see link – lation, the political commentator asserted companies to support its campaign. http://www.exxonmobil.eu/en-eu/policy/re- paigns, there have been heavy concerns that they don’t say much about campaign fi- He responded, “We never approached an porting/political-advocacy-and-contribu- about the effect this money has had on the nance reform. oil company. But, we should be very cau- tions/political-advocacy-and-contributions-o democracy of the superpower. Dr. Hinds said, “Perhaps the last time the tious. Maybe we should have public pact that verview). A report called, “The Chilling Effect of president frontally addressed the issue was we will not take any money from any oil According to the company’s website, it Oil & Gas Money on Democracy” speaks more than a year ago, when he promised leg- company. Let all of us sign on to that. People has a policy against election contributions extensively on this. It was prepared by an en- islation before the next general election. have to raise funds through local and other outside of the USA and Canada, but would vironmental company called Clear Water. Since then, we have not seen any movement. sources, we should have a public pact and do so where laws are applicable (see link – The report exposes how oil and gas com- So, it’s fair to conclude that there is no say we will not take any money from any oil http://cdn.exxonmobil.com/~/media/global/f panies continue to have a major advantage urgency. This is worrying– it makes the gov- company; I am in favour of it. I can say that, iles/politcal-contributions/political_activi- over the rights of the American people when ernment look bad. These campaign promises you can quote me on that, that I am in favour ties_guidelines.pdf). it comes to regulatory policy, mainly due to which are in the manifesto represent the in- of a public pact.” Even though American’s laws allow for the legacy impact of their early influence in gredients needed for an articulation of the The People’s National Congress Reform oil money to be pumped into election cam- certain rulemaking processes. hitherto elusive government’s vision.” EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 11 12 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS

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Victims crossed the 500 mark and included people of all ages and genders, according to statistics

WHEN reigning Soca Monarch Aaron times in a drive-by attack at a family lime in frontation along the Southern Main Road, officer. “Voice” St Louis dominated the airwaves Bagatelle, Diego Martin. The shooter was in Chaguanas, at around 8 am on J’Ouvert Both officers drew their pistols and shot this year with his hit song Year for Love, lit- a black Nissan X-Trail. He was taken to the morning. He died at the scene and was found at each other in the parking lot of Ruby Tues- tle did he know that 2018 would turn out to Port of Spain General Hospital where he by Central Division Police who were on pa- day’s Grand Bazaar. Honore was hit several be the bloodiest year in TT’s history since died receiving treatment. trol. times and died at hospital. Sr Supt David of 2008 when 550 murders were recorded. This Just seven days into the year, 15-year-old In March, a quadruple homicide rocked the Northern Division investigated and rec- year started off with five murders on New Joshua Andrews became the country’s the quaint La Brea community of Sobo Vil- ommended to the Professional Standards Bu- Year’s Day alone. The murder toll as of De- youngest murder victim at the time when he lage. The victims, Abigail Chapman, 15- reau (PSB) that no criminal charges should cember 30 stood at 516, an increase com- and taxi driver Devon Hernandez were shot year-old daughter Olivia Chapman, her be laid against the surviving officer. He got pared to last year’s figure of 494. at and the car in which they were travelling, friend Michaela Mason, 14, and landlord camera surveillance footage from the mall The killing spree began just 15 minutes burned. Michael Scott, 69, were found dead at an which suggested the officer acted in self-de- after the new year was rung in, with the mur- Andrews, a student of the Morvant apartment owned by Scott. Police believe the fence. der of 25-year-old Brandon Khan aka “Chi- Laventille Secondary School was killed me- killer was a man who was once in a relation- The Port of Spain division and surround- nee” who was liming with a group of ters away from the school on Pelican Drive ship with Chapman. ing areas experienced an increase in murders relatives watching fireworks when they were and was believed to be the target of the gun- Later that month Chaguanas business- from May to July, with police branding the shot at by gunmen. men. His mother, Carlene King, is an outpa- man and reputed crime figure Sheron majority of these incidents as gang-related. Khan was shot several times and man- tient of the St Ann’s Psychiatric Hospital and Sukhdeo was gunned down while leaving his One incident was the murders of Kobe aged to run away to a nearby duck pen where is incarcerated with his older brothers Mar- mother-in-law’s Charlieville home at around Brown and Kareem Stanislaus, 30, at Belle he collapsed and died. cus and Matthew for murder. They were al- 8.30 pm, when a man jumped out of a nearby Eau Road, Belmont. Police believe Stanis- Six people were wounded including a lowed to view Andrews’ body at the funeral track and shot him multiple times. laus, 30 and another man visited Brown’s 15-year-old girl, a 25-year-old special-needs home before the funeral. After Sukhdeo’s death, several associates home and shot him several times. man and a 60-year-old woman who uses a Trinidad’s Carnival celebrations were not and relatives were also killed, including As they attempted to leave the scene, wheelchair. spared the bloodshed as a stabbing in San brother-in-law Phillip Bassant and friends gunmen from another area fired at them hit- And 20-year-old Miguel Simmons was Fernando brought J’Ouvert celebrations to Joshua Plaza and Kerwin Beckles in April ting Stanislaus several times, killing him. shot dead at his Malick, Barataria home at an early end. Police said Osei Joseph, 24, and May respectively. On July 10, families at the Chaguaramas around 2 am. His body was found four hours was stabbed in the abdomen and chest after In early May, police officers Darrel Hon- boardwalk were sent running for cover when later as relatives believed the loud explosions a fight broke out. He was taken to the San ore and another police officer were involved gunmen opened fire on bathers, killing three they heard were from fireworks. men and wounding five others, including an Hours later, retired police corporal John eight-year-old boy. Ramkissoon, 59, was stabbed to death by a The attack was blamed on increasing vi- neighbour during an altercation at his olence between gangs from Haig Street and Gopaul Street, Longdenville home. Sea View Terrace Carenage. The victims His daughter said she left the two liming were Andrew Francis, Kedel Osborne and downstairs but was awakened by screams at Fabien Williams. around 3 am. When she checked, she saw her Law-enforcement officers were also tar- father with several stab wounds to his head geted this year. Among them were prison of- and face. Police arrested 29-year-old me- ficers Devendra Boodooram, 50, was shot chanic Nankool Ramcharan five days after dead on Frederick Street in February after the incident. leaving the Port of Spain prison, and prison Nikkita Bascombe visited relatives at the officers Snr Supt Wayne Jackson and Darren family’s Upper Mendez Drive, Champs Francis were murdered less than two weeks Fleurs home for New Years day not knowing apart in October. it would be his last visit, as he was gunned In December, PC Kryston Ramirez, 32, down a short distance away from his car. was shot and killed at a bar in Carapo. Three people, including a 17-year-old boy, were Bascombe, 29, left the area and lived in A murder victim shot on his porch in Port of Spain central but remained in contact with his rel- charged with murdering him. atives in the area. Fernando General Hospital for treatment but in a shooting incident which reportedly -- Newsday That afternoon in Diego Martin, 44-year- died on arrival. Hours later, 17-year-old Re- began over the officer’s alleged relationship old Mark Knolly Bascombe was shot several shan Singh was also stabbed after a con- with Honore’s wife, who was also a police EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 17 Fugitive from Canada killed in GT shootout

In what may be the first execution-style The victim was identified as Chad Day. baseball cap, a red sweater with white stripes killing for the year, a 38-year-old man who A few days later, Canadian police ar- and dark pants.” is suspected to be wanted in Canada for mur- rested and charged Lee Newelln, 31, with Checks of Greene’s background sug- der was gunned down at around 04:00 hours first-degree murder. Christopher Small, 28, gested that he was deported from America. yesterday in Forshaw Street, near the Rio was charged with second-degree murder. He had reportedly also stayed in Canada and Hotel. Canadian Authorities then stated they had come to Guyana around September. Sean Allister O’Brien Greene, 37, of of were looking for a third man, described to be Up until press time, no arrests were Queenstown, Georgetown, and Number 78 in his 20’s to 30’s. He was wearing a black made. Sean Greene -- killed in Guyana Village, Springlands, Corentyne, was riddled in full view of several onlookers. CCTV footage showed the gunman shooting at his victim before escaping on foot. Greene is believed to be wanted in Canada for his role in the killing of a Cana- dian citizen. Police said that Greene was standing in front of the hotel with others when person(s) unknown approached and discharged several rounds at him and fled the scene. The victim was then rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was pronounced dead on arrival. In the CCTV footage seen by Kaieteur News, a number of persons could be seen under a tent in front of the Foreshaw Street hotel that is just a few doors away from the “Rio night club. An individual then walked to the tent and bright flashes, believed to be gunshots could be seen. The persons under the tent scattered, after which the assailant ran in the direction of Albert Street. When persons eventually ventured back to the scene, Greene lay wounded and cling- ing to life. He appeared to have been shot multiple times in the legs, arms, face and stomach. Onlookers appeared to be confused on whether to take the wounded man to a hos- pital. Reports out of Canada indicate that Greene was wanted for the killing of 42- year-old Chad Day, a resident of Toronto. The story stated that, “Canadian police had released security camera photos of a man wanted in connection with a murder in Parkdale. It went on to say that around 11:30 p.m. on Sept. 8, 2018 police were called to a building on West Lodge Avenue near Lans- downe Avenue and Queen Street West, where they found a man lying in the front driveway with serious injuries, and he was pronounced dead. Investigators believe the man had fallen from a balcony after a fight. 18 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS Kidnapped boys stranded in Syria

As Trinidad celebrated Christmas, two The next day, they didn’t return. All calls young boys from Petit Valley slept in tents to his phone went straight to voicemail. 6,000 miles away in a squalid camp in north- Perkins-Ferreira had the first of many panic ern Syria. attacks that have become a regular feature of The last time seven-year-old Ayyub Fer- her life. reira saw Trinidad he had just turned three. His 11-year-old brother Mahmud was a seven-year-old boy enjoying school and practising the cricket strokes of his hero Gary Sobers. In June 2014, a day after Ayyub’s third birthday, their father kidnapped the siblings and took them to Syria where he joined ISIS. Four years on, and over a year since the so-called Islamic State caliphate was smashed by coalition forces, their mother is still waiting for their return. “I feel robbed,” Felicia Perkins-Ferreira said, after agreeing to be interviewed in a bid to persuade the Trinidad government to bring them home. “Do you know how hard it is to get up and go about your day when you feel Ayub and Mahmud with their sister

so empty inside?” The 29-year-old former civil servant had treated the boys to a day at the beach when their father collected them, saying he was taking them to his mother’s house. “He told them, tell your mother you love her. They hugged me, and they left.” ADAM BETHUNE CHARTERED PROFESSIOINAL ACCOUNTANT CPA CMA FCIS Our firm offers a range of accounting and taxation services including, but not limited to the following: • Business Planning and Financial Forecasts • Incorporation and Advising • Bookkeeping and Quick Books Set Up • Canadian Individual Tax Preparation • Corporate Tax Return Preparation • Notice to Reader Financial Statements • Business Advice and Consulting Tel: 416-289-1722 Address: 110 Seminole Ave., Scarborough, ON M1J 1N7 Cell: 416-305-6894 Looking forward to be of service to you at all times. Email: [email protected] Please contact us - Consultation is free (416) 289-1722

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2655 Lawrence Ave East Unit A2 (East of Midland) 416 750 1064 ask for Khris (Cell 416 708 3034) 20 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS Man executed in front of Queenstown hotel A 38-year-old man was on early Sunday the death of Quacy Lewis along the Peter’s morning executed in front of the Adventure Police said Tyrone Tyrel DeSouza, a Hall Public Road, East Bank Demerara Suits Hotel at Foreshaw Street, Queenstown, school drop-out, along with nine others, en- (EBD). Georgetown at around 4am. tered the Mining Operation owned by Ter- It is alleged that Stull on December 10, Dead is Sean Allister O’Brien Greene of rence Yarde at about 6:00hrs. 2018, drove motor car PWW 9187 in a dan- Alberttown and # 78 Village, Springlands, Police investigation revealed that DeS- gerous manner to the public and caused the Corentyne, Berbice. ouza and his companions proceeded to un- death of Lewis, who resided at Perseverance, Police Headquarters said he was standing dermine a section north of the pit in search EBD. in front of the hotel with others, when per- of the gold. At the time of the accident, Lewis was sons, who are unknown at this time, ap- At about 22:00hrs, a section of the min- executing maintenance work on the roadway proached and discharged rounds at him and ing pit collapsed and trapped Tyrone Tyrel when Stull lost control of his car and crashed fled the scene. De Souza below the mud and water. into him. He received multiple gunshot wounds, The other persons managed to escape Stull pleaded not guilty to the charge the police said. and returned at about 09:00hrs on Friday while his Attorney, Patrice Henry pleaded for According to reports, the suspect when they managed to recover to body of the bail. pumped over 20 bullets at the victim before child. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield fleeing the scene. The Queenstown Hotel Yarde had closed his operations on made no objection to bail. The victim was rushed to the George- Christmas Day and travelled to the Port Kai- He was released on $400,000 bail and the orters. town Public Hospital where he was pro- tuma sub-region where he resides. Chief Magistrate ordered that he lodge his Lieutenant Bagot was scheduled to return nounced dead on arrival. Yarde’s operation is situated north east of passport at the court and report to the Provi- to Georgetown today to resume duties. He Police are continuing their investigations the backdam and his dredges are located in dence Police Station once weekly. leaves to mourn a younger sister and his par- and no arrests have been made at this time. a pit which measures about 80 feet in depth The businessman is scheduled to return ents. and 40 feet in width. to court on January 18, 2019. Soldier stabbed to Child killed in mining The body is presently at the Port Kaituma death in Berbice pit collapse Hospital mortuary awaiting a post mortem. Advertise and A twenty-six-year-old Lieutenant of the Businessman charged Guyana Defence Force (GDF), who was vis- survive in 2019. Call Police are investigating the death of an iting his family, was stabbed to death follow- 11-year-old, who was killed after a mining in fatal accident ing an argument at a shop in Phillipe Village, Twenty-eight-year-old Oscar Stull ap- us first for the best pit collapsed at Creek Backdam, North West Corentyne Berbice at around 20:00hrs Sun- peared before Chief Magistrate, Ann District, Region One at about 22:30hrs on day. McLennan on Friday, charged with causing rates Thursday, December 27. Dead is Mark Bagot called “Junior” of Phillipe and of Georgetown. Proprietor of Chunku Grocery, Danesh- war Gabbar told News Room that Bagot and a friend were hanging out at the shop when an acquaintance identified as ‘Son’ joined them. It is alleged that Lieutenant Bagot or- dered a ‘round’ of drinks when ‘Son’ insisted on paying but the Army rank said he will pay for his drinks. This led to an argument between the two when Bagot’s friend intervened and tried to quell the matter. However, it is alleged that ‘Son’ whipped out a knife and stabbed Lieutenant Bagot several times in the region of his chest. He was rushed to the Port Mourant hos- pital but was transferred to the New Amster- dam Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. A Police source said they are currently searching for the suspect who is said to be from Black Bush Polder. Mark Bagot (Snr) is still in shock that his only son died and told News Room that he was at a wake when he heard the dreadful news. He initially thought it was an accident but was gutted when he found out his son was stabbed. “When I reached to the hospital, I saw him on a stretcher and the doctors were try- ing with him but then when we were told he had to be transferred, I rode with him in the ambulance as he was slipping in and out of consciousness”. The Senior Bagot said his son had a promising future ahead of him as he was well educated and always willing. His mother was too emotional to speak with re- EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 21 Gov’t challenges no-confidence vote

Guyana’s ruling A Partnership for Na- is and also now, save and except this Article The Minister was asked why a majority tional Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+ 106 (6),” Ramjattan stated. of 34 votes is only now relevant to the no- AFC) administration has announced its de- Further, he said that, “once the threshold confidence vote, as opposed to other mo- cision to challenge the passing of the no- figure is arrived at and we are now arguing tions in the national assembly only needing confidence vote against it, citing that 33 it is 34 as against 33, then Article 106 is trig- 33 votes to be passed. votes do not constitute a Parliamentary ma- gered, meaning that the elections must be His response was that, “There is a dis- jority. held within a 90-day period; however, we tinction because there is an article in our In an interview with the National Com- are saying that will have to now be deter- constitution that says that bills and motions munications Network, Minister of Public Se- mined by the Speaker because the internal can be passed save and except otherwise curity, Khemraj Ramjattan, said that 34 arrangements of the House is headed by the provided, by a simple majority of those pres- votes are needed in the National Assembly Speaker and if the Speaker determines there ent and voting… a confidence or no-confi- for the no-confidence motion to be carried. is clearly a mistake in relation to computa- dence motion is a different motion above all “We feel, not withstanding what hap- tion of what the threshold level is and that else as the constitution made mention.” pened on the 21st [of December], that the could be corrected… we feel that is the way The distinction Ramjattan referred to is numbers of persons who will constitute that to go.” the one between Article 168 (1) and 106 (6) threshold of elected parliamentarians is 34, Khemraj Ramjattan Ramjattan said that the government will of the Constitution, which states “Save as and not 33,” Ramjattan stated. going to argue the case that it has not been a build its argument on certain precedents that otherwise provided by this Constitution, all This is a departure from the govern- threshold figure that was arrived at,” Ram- were set as it relates to the passage of a no- questions proposed for decision in the Na- ment’s initial decision, which was to accept jattan stated. confidence motion, come January 3, 2019 tional Assembly shall be determined by a the outcome of the vote. “Therein, we found that it was indeed the when parliament reconvenes. majority of votes of the members present The Public Security Minister said that calculation, mathematical and juridical, is In a statement, the government referred and voting” and “the Cabinet including the the government has adjusted its position on that it must be half the number of elected to the current public discourse surrounding President shall resign if the government is the matter because cabinet “sought some members plus one. And if it leads to a frac- the no-confidence motion, and said that defeated by the vote of a majority of all legal advice”. He said that they also went tion, that fraction must be upended toward there are statements that are not helpful “be- elected members of the National Assembly back to the text of the constitution: “We also another whole figure.” cause there are forces at play who are seek- on a vote of confidence” respectively. got a number of authorities that compute this Explaining his mathematical interpreta- ing to subvert and railroad the democratic The government further released a state- special arrangement that can bring down a tion of the vote, Ramjattan said half of 65, it process.” ment, which reads that “Until and unless democracy; a no-confidence motion.” is 32.5. That plus one is 33.5. Due to the 0.5, Ramjattan said that, although the Presi- fresh elections are held, the Government re- “There initially was a sentiment that it that must go into the next whole number, dent and Prime Minister declared that they mains in full control of the governance ap- was 33, but after we were blindsided by the which brings it to 34. would respect the integrity of the vote, they paratus of the state and will continue to carry immoral act of Mr. Charrandass, we all got “It is important that people just do not only did that because they felt that that was out its mandate according to its Constitu- betrayed by him when he voted yes. In view follow through as what is regarded as sim- the best action to take at the time “based on tional requirement. of what happened on the 21st, when the plicity. The law is the law and that is why the the context of what took place.” This is despite demands by Leader of the Speaker of the House indicated that he is constitution made an exception to Article He said that this must be remedied be- Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, for the govern- going to adjourn Parliament to deal with the 168 by having Article 168 drafted the way it cause he does not want a miscalculation to ment to resign immediately. consequences, we have decided that we are subvert the Constitution. 22 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS



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',7 ,,77 112&5(',72&5( %$'&5(',7%$$''&&555((('' ſ 12352%/(012352%/(0 EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 23 SPORTS Kallicharan on Queen’s list

EX-West Indies batsman Alvin Isaac Kallicharran was among several sports per- sonalities, who were awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s New Year Honours list for his contribution to the sport. The Guyanese-born batsman would now be entitled to attach the letters “BEM” to his title, signifying that he has been honoured by the queen. He joins a list of sports personalities Peter Wynne-Thomas Nottingham Club his- torian, Anthony Clark, for his services to badminton, New Zealand coach Mary Wright for contributions to gymnastics, Sophia Warner for services to disability sports, race walker Chris Maddocks, for his services to athletics, Paralympic athlete Dr Anthony Griffin for services to sport and Stephen Baxter and Northern Ireland’s Cru- saders FC manager, Stephen Baxter, for his contribution to football. Born on March 21, 1949 in Georgetown, Guyana, Kallicharan played cricket from 1972 to 1981 as a left-handed batsman and a right-arm off spinner. Not only did he play for the West Indies team but he also used his elegant watchful batting style in teams in- cluding Guyana, Orange Free State, Queens- land, Transvaal and Warwickshire. Kallicharan debuted in his hometown in a face-off between West Indies and New Zealand between April 6-11, 1972, where he made a century without being bowled out. A year later he debuted in One Day Test Cricket, in a clash between England and the West Indies at Leeds, England, where he was Alvin Kallicharan -- awarded the British Empire Medal stumped with 26 runs, but knocked over three stumps, while conceding 68 runs. He spent the rest of his career playing for with the team when many others were pick- and played very well, and if they want to The cricketer was also named Wisden Orange Free State and Transvaal in South ing up and leaving. He was a great batsman award him then that is a good choice.” Cricketer of the year in 1983. African domestic cricket. He is currently One of his more noted international in- manager of Lashings World XI. nings where he made 158 runs against Eng- The British Empire Medal is an award lish bowlers during the first Test of the West given to people who did a commendable Indies tour of England in London in July civil or military service worthy of recogni- 1973. The knock was shrouded in contro- tion by the Crown. versy after he was run out by Tony Greig on In England New Year’s Day is usually the final ball of the first day. marked by the naming of new members of He was later on embroiled in further con- orders of chivalry and recipients of other of- troversy when he led an unofficial rebel tour ficial honours. Kallicharran is expected to be to South Africa in defiance of the Gleneagles handed the medal on New Year’s Day, by a Agreement, which stated that Common- representative of the queen in her name or by wealth Presidents and Prime Ministers were the queen herself. to discourage contact and competition with Brian Davis, who managed the West In- sporting organisations from South Africa, dies team while Kallicharran was captain, who at the time was operating under the poli- described him as an “affable person with a cies of apartheid. tremendous sense of humor”. He said that Kallicharan also took up the West Indies along with working with him in the West In- captaincy from 1977-1978, three years be- dies team, he also played against him when- fore his last Test Match and ODI appear- ever TT faced Guyana ances in 1981. “I think it is well deserved,” Davis said. “It couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. He stuck 24 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS EQUALITY NEWS THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 25 26 THURSDAY JANUARY 3 2019 EQUALITY NEWS MAHARANI FASHIONS

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