Security
Norton rejects proposal for Hicken to be confirmed as Top Cop: Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has rejected a proposal by President Irfaan Ali that acting Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken be substantively appointed to that position. In a September 17th letter to Ali following a September 4th letter from Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Gail Teixeira making the proposal, Norton listed a series of reasons why Hicken should not be considered for the position of Top Cop. Article 211 (1) of the Constitution stipulates that the Commissioner shall be appointed by the President after “meaningful consultation” with the Leader of the Opposition. The agreement of the Opposition Leader is not needed which means that the government may still go ahead and appoint Hicken to the post. The letter delivered to Norton by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance outlined the President’s intention to finalize a decision on Hicken’s appointment by October 4, 2024. She therefore requested a response from Norton by September 18, 2024. There was no word from the government yesterday on the appointment. Norton expressed his dissatisfaction with the consultation process, stating that the exchange of letters does not constitute meaningful dialogue. He said in his response letter dated September 17th, 2024 “I cannot support the appointment of a Commissioner of Police at this stage. Several allegations have been leveled against Mr. Hicken over the years”. He urged a full investigation into Hicken’s conduct and the management of the Guyana Police Force. Speaking to Stabroek News yesterday, Norton stated “There were no consultations between President Ali and I…We do not believe that there should be any talking about appointing a Commissioner of Police amidst all these allegations of corruption within the Guyana Police Force. Guyanese do not have any faith in the Force, so I don’t know which cloud Ali is living on, whether it be cloud 9, 10 or 11 to be saying that Guyanese have faith in the Force. Crime has skyrocketed under Hicken, they seem to only be measuring the rising and falling of crime based on rapes and murders, but should drug busts etcetera be included, the numbers will show that it has skyrocketed.” In his letter to Ali, Norton cited serious allegations against Hicken, including his testimony during the 2012 Linden Commission of Inquiry and negligence in the investigation surrounding the alleged assassination plot against former President David Granger in 2017. He said that it was then recommended that Hicken be relieved from that post, thereby raising concerns about his impartiality, accountability and credibility.
Accountability
Procurement Act must be overhauled to tackle corruption – Mahipaul: The Procurement Act of 2003 contains deficiencies and needs to be overhauled to tackle the issue of corruption while making the process more transparent and accountable. This is the view of Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul, in a statement last week concerning the aforementioned Procurement Act which he stated was long overdue for critical amendments, as it is currently plagued with favouritism and corruption. He noted that while there has been talk of overhauling the Act, nothing concrete has been done, and as such, “The time for promises is over.”
The statement described the Act as a system of hidden appointments which erodes trust and fosters corruption, with evaluators secretly selected, and often handpicked from political allies of the PPP/C, “disguised as public servants.” And even worse than this, it alleged, is the composition of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), which is entirely made up of individuals appointed by the PPP/C regime. Therefore, in view of this state of affairs, there is no representation from other political entities, creating a procurement process that is “inherently flawed and biased,” and perpetuating an “atmosphere of distrust and corruption.” According to Mahipaul, the Procurement Act of 2003 must be amended to include representatives from the political opposition at both the Evaluation Committee, and Tender Board levels in order to restore faith in the system. In addition, broader representation is essential to ensuring decisions are based on merit rather than political connections. “Only by making these necessary changes can we build the transparency and accountability that the procurement process so desperately lacks.” The MP said that within its first 100 days in office, an APNU+AFC government will move to amend the Procurement Act of 2003 to guarantee wider representation, including the opposition, at every level of the procurement process. He posited that this will not only curb the significant corruption currently present, but will also foster the trust, accountability, and transparency that the nation deserves. “The time for reform is now. Without these amendments, the procurement process will remain compromised by favouritism, and the necessary trust between the government and the people will continue to erode. Action, not rhetoric, is the only solution”, he asserted.
Goolsarran urges Integrity Commission to scrutinise financial reports received: Guyana’s Integrity Commission should move beyond the mere submission of financial reports of senior public servants and politicians and add investigating the declarations to see if they match with the opulent lifestyles many officials live, former auditor general Anand Goolsarran has said. “With the assistance of experts, it should critically examine all declarations and carry out whatever investigation it considers necessary to ensure they are complete and accurate and there is no mismatch between the declarations and the observable lifestyles of public officials,” he wrote in his “Accountability” column published last Monday. Pointing to outlines set by world international watchdog body Transpa-rency International (TI), he said that the organisation notes that public officials must be held accountable for accurately reporting their assets, as mandated by law. Requiring asset declarations, along with effective monitoring and enforcement, is key to identifying conflict of interest and fighting corruption. “TI further stated that: (i) while the failure to disclose assets does not automatically imply corruption, it is essential that any irregularities should lead to thorough investigations; and (ii) the Executive’s overwhelming control over the legislature in Jamaica weakens Parliament’s oversight ability, creating an environment where abuse and corruption can thrive,” Goolsarran wrote. He pointed to global cases of public officials being cited or interdicted for corruption, along with some currently under the spotlight. Last week, he had highlighted the case where the Chinese authorities imposed sanctions against one of the big four accounting and auditing firms, PwC, for its failure to detect and report fraudulent transactions involving a failed property developer. According to China’s Ministry of Finance, Goolsarran said, the auditors were aware of material misstatements in the financial statements of the developer but failed to point them out, and even issued false audit reports. PwC was the auditor of the developer for the past 14 years which raises the important issues relating to audit independence, cosy relationships between auditors and their clients, conflicts of interest, and the provision of non-audit services at the same time.
Tender Board, Hughes lock horns on Schoonord road project: The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has stated that the evaluation process for the Schoonord to Crane Road was done in full compliance of the Procurement Act, but Alliance for Change Leader Nigel Hughes is calling for the release of it and the reports. However, NPTAB sources said that Hughes, being an attorney, should know that the release of the bidders’ information could not be made public and that there was a process in place for aggrieved bidders. “We are reassured about NPTAB’s stated commitment to “ensuring an open, fair, competitive, and transparent public procurement process,” Hughes said in a letter to the editor. “Consequently, in keeping with this commitment, we request that NPTAB releases the following: the full Evaluation Criteria used to evaluate tender submissions and the Evaluation Reports for the eight lots.” “Release of the above will no doubt go a far way to addressing the many lingering questions regarding the award of contracts for the CHPA’s Schoonord to Crane Road Project and reassure the public that all the tenders were evaluated strictly in accordance with the Evaluation Criteria,” he added. The source noted that the Procurement Act lays out “the process for an aggrieved bidder, what NPTAB must do, what the procuring entity must do after evaluation… all of that is there.” On Friday, and following criticisms by Hughes, the government defended the contract awards for the construction of the $11.8 billion Schoonord-to-Crane Highway insisting that the NPTAB followed all legal procurement steps. It disclosed that only eight of the 32 bids were responsive. Questions have been raised about the decisions being made by the evaluation committees of the NPTAB.
Security
Gov’t signs US$16m deal for two Bell helicopters: The Government of Guyana yesterday signed a US$16 million contract with Bell Textron Inc for two advanced rotary wing aircraft and emphasised the importance of its relationship with the United States. The new aircraft will empower the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to effectively conduct a range of missions, including search and rescue, disaster relief, and border security operations, a press release from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) said. The contract, according to the release, encompasses comprehensive training and maintenance support for these aircraft from Bell Textron Inc of the US, ensuring that the GDF maximizes the benefits of this investment for years to come. In addition to company support for the two helicopters under contract, the release stated that the US Embassy, in coordination with US Southern Command, approved funding for a US Air Force team to provide operations, logistics, and maintenance training to the GDF Air Corps to strengthen their ability to sustain the air fleet. Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh said that the signing represents another instalment in the significant investments in the capitalization and recapitalization of the GDF. He said that by the end of this year, the Government would have spent almost $32 billion on investments in capital assets for the GDF since assuming office in 2020. These investments, the MoF release specified, are targeted towards improving all aspects in the Force’s operations (Air Corps, Marine, Infantry, etc.) as well as supporting surveillance of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone and joint services operations. The agreement also enhances the capabilities of the GDF, serving as a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between Guyana and the United States of America (USA). The release highlighted both governments’ commitment to deepening cooperation in the areas of defence and security, their shared values and goals, and the importance of collaboration in enhancing regional peace and stability. Further, on behalf of President Irfaan Ali and the Government and People of Guyana, Singh “registered the highest level of importance the Government places on the very special relationship shared with the USA” and emphasized that yesterday’s signing is yet another step in further strengthening and deepening relations between the two countries.
Travel
BVI approves visa-free travel for Guyanese: In a significant step toward deepening economic and diplomatic ties with Guyana, British Virgin Islands (BVI) Premier and Finance Minister Natalio Wheatley announced last week that Guyanese citizens will soon enjoy visa-free travel to the BVI. The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in light of Guyana’s rapid economic growth and rising international influence. Speaking at a press conference, Wheatley emphasized the importance of fostering closer relations with Guyana, especially as the South American nation continues to position itself as an emerging global power. He noted that Guyana has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, driven by its oil discoveries and bolstered by its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, Wheatley said. “It is a model for sustainable growth and international diplomacy.” Wheatley cited Guyana’s substantial economic progress, particularly in the oil sector, as a major motivator for enhancing the BVI’s relationship with the country. “Guyana has seen exponential growth following its significant oil discoveries, with its oil sector expanding by 124.8% in 2022 alone”, he stated. However, the Premier was quick to point out that Guyana’s economic boom is not limited to oil. He stated that Guyana’s non-oil sectors have also produced substantial results, demonstrating the country’s “balanced approach to development.” Wheatley suggested that easier travel between the BVI and Guyana could lead to increased business opportunities, tourism, and other forms of bilateral exchange. Wheatley underscored Guyana’s rising profile on the global stage, describing it as “the focal point for global investment” due to its vast oil reserves. He also highlighted the country’s growing influence in international diplomacy. “Guyana’s ascension to the UN Security Council places Guyana in a pivotal position to enforce global policies on peace and security and elevate the Caribbean voice on the international stage”, Wheatley said. He also mentioned the close ties between Guyana and China, pointing out that the two countries have developed a robust trading relationship. “In 2022, bilateral trade between Guyana and China reached $1.88 billion, making Guyana China’s most significant trading partner among CARICOM nations,” Wheatley said. This partnership has played a key role in boosting Guyana’s status as a major player in the global economy, he added.
ERC
ERC probing racist abuse of Ivor Thom: Chief Executive Officer of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) Gomin Camacho has confirmed that it is investigating an incident where racial abuse was aimed at Ivor Thom, Head of the Burrowes School of Art. Thom yesterday told Stabroek News that the investigation was triggered by significant media attention surrounding the incident. Thom related that on September 7, he was verbally abused with racial slurs by a member of the public, which, he said, contributed to his decision to step down from his post. He has since decided to return to the post. According to Thom, the confrontation occurred on September 7th as he was preparing to leave the art school after completing work on a sculpture of former PPP/C cabinet secretary, the late Dr Roger Luncheon. As he readied his car to depart, there was a red SUV parked in a manner that made it difficult for him to exit without risking a collision. He then approached the driver of the SUV and informed him that the parking lot was reserved for students and staff of the school to which the SUV driver became enraged and hurled racial slurs at him. A passenger in the SUV then apparently made a call to Ramson. Shortly afterwards, Thom said he received a call from the Director of Culture, who informed him that the minister wished to speak with him. On his way to the ministry he received another call from the Permanent Secretary, urging him to come in. He told the Permanent Secretary that he was already at the building. He was then directed to a boardroom where he was left waiting for 45 minutes. When the meeting finally began, Thom said he recounted the parking lot incident, to which, he said, the minister responded with hostility. Ramson has thus far made no public statement on the incident. According to Thom, Ramson told him he had no right to blow his horn at anyone or to dictate parking arrangements. Thom said that was not the first time he had endured such treatment from the minister, recalling two previous occasions where Ramson had shouted at him. After reflecting on the situation, he concluded that he could no longer tolerate the disrespect and mistreatment, and tendered his resignation.
ERC criticises police action at church where noise nuisance alleged: The Ethnic Relations Com-mission (ERC) has criticized the action involving a police officer during a church service in the hinterland which has ignited a heated debate over the balance between freedom of worship and noise nuisances. A video circulating online shows a police officer escorting a church musician from the premises to the police station, reportedly in response to complaints regarding loud music from the church. The ERC expressed deep concern about the incident stating, “The ERC vehemently condemns any action that infringes upon the freedom of worship.” The commission acknowledged on September 24th, the Guyana Police Force’s duty to address reported complaints but criticized the manner in which the situation was handled, suggesting that it could have been resolved in a way that was “less disruptive to the church service.” The commission further emphasized its commitment to “encourage and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society,” and announced plans for a thorough investigation into the matter. In a statement published on September 21st, the Guyana Police Force clarified that the officer did not disrupt the service or arrest any members of the congregation. “The pastor was not invited to the police station but chose to accompany Morgow [the church’s musician mentioned above], who was subsequently given a warning and sent away,” the police said.
Fire
Seven generators, nine transformers destroyed in DDL fire – GFS: Seven caterpillar generators and nine transformers were destroyed in September 27th fire at the DDL power plant at Plantation Diamond, East Bank Demerara. This was disclosed by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) in a release. The GFS said there had been significant damage from the fire that originated in the generator enclosure. “Listed among the destroyed items were: one forklift, nine transformers, 23 drums of castor oil, and seven Caterpillar generators. The fire also spread to a nearby chemical bond, resulting in severe damage to five metres of wooden ceiling on the eastern side of the building and seven metres of metal guttering”, the GFS said. No information on the damage has been released by DDL. The last statement it issued on Friday said: “At approximately 16:40h today, a fire was observed near one of the generating sets in the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Diamond Complex Power Station. “The DDL Fire Response Team responded and worked to control the fire until the arrival of units of the Guyana Fire Service. “The Guyana Fire Service was able to contain the fire to the power station. No other facilities or installations are under threat. The Guyana Fire Service continues to work to extinguish the fire in the Power Station”. The company will now likely have to immediately source new generators for its operations.
In the court
Two charged with kidnapping man on Main St: The ongoing investigation into the Main Street kidnapping case, took a legal twist last Friday with the attorney for two of the suspects stating that the police had acted in contempt of a High Court order. According to attorney-at-law Everton Singh-Lammy, he appeared via Zoom on Friday with his clients, Osafo Peters and Alpha Poole, before Justice Nicola Pierre at the High Court to argue for the release of the two men who were being held beyond the 72-hour limit. The Judge subsequently issued orders for the two suspects in the kidnapping of Joshua David to be released from custody. However, despite the orders, the suspects – Peters and Poole – continued to be detained and Friday afternoon, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty, where they were charged with abduction, contrary to Section 4 of the Kidnapping Act. The two accused were not required to enter a plea and were remanded to prison until October 11. In court, their attorney, Singh-Lammy argued that a habeas corpus application was filed that morning since the suspects were held for over 72 hours and the application was granted by the High Court for the suspects to be released. The attorney’s position is that the police kept his clients in unlawful custody after the Zoom hearing in contempt of the court order. As a result of the refusal to release the suspects, the attorney indicated his intention to file contempt proceedings against the police for not obeying the High Court order. Singh-Lammy is adamant that both suspects are innocent as they have not been involved in any abduction. In response, Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum, told Stabroek News that the matter is before the court and is therefore sub judice.
GWI
GWI says storm caused water disruption at Linden: Responding to a statement by APNU+AFC Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, GWI last week said that a storm in Linden on September 24 had disrupted water supply and it had been proactive in trying to address the issue. The Guyana Water Inc (GWI) said that Figueira’s statement on Wednesday had failed to identify the main causes of the water problem and tried to attribute this to the utility. “The facts, however, are that the water supply was disrupted as a result of the storm which occurred on September 24, 2024 that caused significant damage to electrical infrastructure including a large 800kVA transformer which supplies electricity to the Wisroc Treatment Plant. The supply of electricity to the plant is the responsibility of the Linden Utility Services Co-op Society Limited (LUSCSL). Upon investigation, LUSCSL initially believed that the problem was related to damaged cables which were repaired. However, it was not until Saturday, it was ascertained by LUSCSL that the transformer at the treatment plant had been severely damaged beyond repair”, GWI said in a release. GWI said it immediately intervened and sourced a replacement transformer from the Guyana Power & Light, ensuring its prompt transportation to Linden to be installed so that the treatment plant could commence normal operation. During this time GWI said it continuously used its generator to power the plant to ensure water was delivered albeit only in some areas. Additionally, GWI collaborated with the Guyana Fire Service and private contractors to deliver water to critical facilities including the hospital, hostel and schools. GWI said it has invested in improving access and sustainability of safe water to the population of Region 10 and especially Linden. It said that new wells were drilled or are to be drilled at Amelia’s Ward (to be put into Operation shortly) Bamia (completed), Rockstone, Old England, and Coomacka. The Amelia’s Ward Water Treatment Plant is being upgraded with the addition of two new filters to expand treated water coverage. The West Watooka Water supply project is set to provide spring water from the conservancy and replace the Demerara River as a source of supply. A water loss reduction project is in place to improve the level of service to residents.
