Analysis by Rickey Singh THE POLITICAL agonies of the Prime Ministers of Jamaica (Bruce Golding) and Trinidad and Tobago (Patrick Manning) appear to be worsening and raising serious questions about their future as leaders of government in the Caribbean Community.At the time of writing, Golding was locked in the latest of a series of crisis consultations with various arms of his ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) as to whether he should bow to increasing demands from the parliamentary opposition, business and civic organisations to quit as Prime Minister.Golding’s recent self-confessed sin that is traumatising Jamaica was that he had personally misled the people of Jamaica by an earlier denial of his involvement in recruiting a United States law firm to engage in lobbying work to help avoid the requested extradition by US authorities of an alleged major dealer in narco-trafficking and gun-running – Christopher “Dudus” Coke, widely known to be an activist JLP supporter. On the other hand, across in Trinidad and Tobago, Manning’s People’s National Movement has been pushed on the defensive to deny his involvement in highly controversial expenditures of state funds linked to a church, whose female pastor he had publicly idenfitied as his “spiritual adviser”. In addition to relevant documents on claimed misuse of state land and funds linked to the construction of the Church Of The Lighthouse Of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the leader of the main opposition United National Congress, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has now raised a series of questionable expenditures incurred on the Prime Minister’s new official residence and diplomatic centre through the Urban Development Corporation of T&T (UDECOTT).Persad-Bissessar, who is the designated prime ministerial candidate for a “people’s partnership” coalition for change, has disclosed that all relevant documents were to be made available this week to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the acting Police Commissioner to investigate “criminal wrongdoings” in accordance with the country’s anti-corruption law.With just one week to go before next Monday’s vote, Manning’s 31-month old administration has been effectively driven on the backfoot to defend mounting allegations of poor governance.For his part, Golding’s 33-month-old administration is faced with a survival dilemma that some regional constitutional experts think leave him with the choice of either advising the Governor General to dissolve parliament, or to resign.Consistent with established norms of the Westminster-style multi-party democracy to which governing and oppposition parties in CARICOM generally subscribe, a head of government who confesses giving false information on a matter of grave national importance – as done by Golding – can expect to face a no-confidence motion, having damaged his personal credibility and that of his administration.In Trinidad and Tobago, where Manning felt obliged to abandon – even before reaching mid-term – a five-year mandate won in an electoral landslide in November 2007, his political mantra for the May 24 poll is that the anti-PNM coalition is “doomed to failure”, but indications point to the contrary.In his anxiety to woo support for his prediction about the longevity of a UNC/Congress of People (COP) “partnership” in government, Manning has gone even further by forecasting the collapse, in one year, of Britain’s first coalition government since World War II.In contrast, Persad-Bissessar, the first woman to head a major party in Trinidad and Tobago, has been wooing supporters with her claim that the British Prime Minister David Cameron-led coalition with the Liberal Democrats had “gone the way set by us”.However, such enthusiasm must contend with harsh reality; notably that the perceived popular surge towards her coalition force could run into trouble with a simplistic assumption that the massive electoral defeat suffered in 1986 by Manning when he called a snap general election could be repeated in 2010. Her literal tearing up of the PNM’s manifesto last week, within days of its official release, may have been an entertaining act for emotional and aggressive advocates of “time for change”, but it was hardly an intellectual response. And in the absence of its own manifesto up to the time of writing, the “people’s partnership” crusade has to avoid undermining its own credibility in what it offers for “change”.
Sir Garry’s innings
It was truly a Knight to Remember when 35 years of knighthood for Barbados’ lone surviving National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, were celebrated with a gala dinner and tribute on Saturday night at the gymnasium of the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex.When one combined good food, fine entertainment, a pantheon of West Indies cricketing greats – including two knights and five captains – two legends who captained Australia and India, two Government ministers, the who’s who of sports and business in Barbados along with more than 600 of Sir Garry’s friends and fans, it was understandable why applause was still ringing out in the Wildey area after midnight. If everyone in the gym could have been somehow rejuvenated, then West Indies cricket would dominate the world again with the likes of Sir Vivian Richards, Clive Lloyd, Brian Lara, Seymour Nurse, Cammie Smith, Maurice Foster, Peter Lashley, Courtney Browne, Wes Hall, Charlie Griffith, Joel Garner and Courtney Walsh, among those celebrating the occasion.The West Indies would then have to decide who to omit and then how to contend with two of their most loved/hated opponents, Sunil Gavaskar of India and Ian Chappell of Australia, who were also part of the audience paying tribute to the greatest all-rounder of all time.Fast bowling giant Reverend Wes Hall opened the night in inimitable style, describing Sir Garry as the Moses of West Indies cricket. Waxing poetically and forcing listeners to “Google” many of the words he used to describe Sir Garry’s genius, Hall said he was “the most unforgettable character whose generosity knows no bounds”.“Garry’s love, humility and ability to forgive made him a fine ambassador for Barbados, the West Indies and cricket generally,” Hall added.Hall and the other speakers, including noted international commentator Tony Cozier, Sir Vivian, Gavaskar, Chappell, Lara and Sir Garry’s son Daniel who had conceptualised and executed the event, captivated the audience with their take on his well-documented exploits.The little master from Bombay, Gavaskar, spoke of the pride he felt when he first toured the West Indies and was on the same field as Sobers; while Lara thanked Sir Garry for taking an interest in him from 13.“Sir Garry, you are a legend. You are a man of genius!”, said Lara.Personifying the humility and generosity described earlier, Sir Garry, in his turn at the podium, thanked those who had spoken and explained how they had impacted his life. He also thanked God for allowing him to enjoy the accolades of his friends and fans and for allowing all of his five siblings to experience good health. Sir Garry also disclosed that he could have been the first West Indian to play professional football in Britain.“In 1960 I was offered a trial as a goalkeeper for Everton. Football is played in winter in England and I could not even deal with the summer, so could you imagine me in England in the winter playing a game in short pants?” Sir Garry asked to peals of laughter.
SIR GARRY YORKED BY DWIGHT
At Saturday night’s gala and dinner celebrating his 35th year of knighthood, Barbados’ lone living National Hero Sir Garfield Sobers paid tribute to former Manchester United player Dwight Yorke for being a fine example for Caribbean footballers.Earlier at the Knight To Remember affair, Yorke, who is a close friend of West Indies superstar Brian Lara, had made a significant contribution to the auction raising funds for a foundation to help needy causes under Sir Garry’s name.Yorke had missed out on an autographed photo of four of the world’s greatest batsmen Sir Garry, Lara, Sir Vivian Richards and Sunil Gavaskar. However, Yorke was so happy to gain two others – one with Sir Garry and Sir Viv, and another with Sir Garry and Lara – that the affable sportsman added an additional $1 000 to the $3 000 he had offered for the photos.Above, Yorke posing with the virtual stars and the real heroes of Caribbean cricket at the Garfield Sobers Sporting Complex.
Cellphone, cancer link still unproven
GENEVA – A major international study into the link between cellphone use and two types of brain cancer has proved inconclusive, according to a report in a medical journal due to be published later this week.The study of almost 13 000 cell phone users found no increase in risk of developing meningioma – a common and frequently benign tumour – and only “suggestions” of increased risk for gliomas – a less common but deadlier form of cancer – from heavy long-term use.The ten-year study, conducted by the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, concluded that “biases and error prevent a causal interpretation” directly blaming cellphone radiation for increased risk of glioma. (AP)
Thai gov’t not easing up
BANGKOK – Thailand’s government insisted yesterday that a crackdown on Red Shirt protesters would continue despite their plea for United Nations-mediated talks to end four days of street clashes with troops that have killed 30 people.Government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said that a pause by the Thai military was unnecessary since troops were “not using weapons to crack down on civilians”.The government maintained that it was only targeting armed “terrorists” among the demonstrators.Panitan’s comments dashed hopes of an end to Thailand’s worst political violence in decades, which has spiralled out of control and raised concerns of sustained, widespread chaos in this nation of 65 million people. Thailand is a key United States ally and Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy.According to government figures, 59 people have died and more than 1 600 have been wounded since the Red Shirts began their protests in March. The toll includes 30 civilians killed and 232 injured since last Thursday in fighting that has turned parts of the city known for its nightlife into an urban war zone.A towering column of black smoke rose over the city yesterday as protesters set fire to a barricade of tyres. (AP)
Tsvangirai blames outsiders
HARARE – Zimbabwe’s prime minister said yesterday outsiders were stirring up trouble in his party at a delicate time in the country’s politics.Morgan Tsvangirai, speaking at a news conference after a two-day party meeting, was asked about clashes that broke out last month within his Movement for Democratic Change.He said some people have been expelled from the party because of the violence, and efforts would be stepped up to educate members about resolving differences peacefully. (AP)
Gay bishop consecrated
LONG BEACH – The Episcopal Church has consecrated a woman as its second openly gay bishop, seven years after stirring lingering controversy by ordaining a man to a similar post. The Reverend Canon Mary Glasspool, of Baltimore, was ordained and consecrated on Saturday. (AP) LONG BEACH – The Episcopal Church has consecrated a woman as its second openly gay bishop, seven years after stirring lingering controversy by ordaining a man to a similar post. The Reverend Canon Mary Glasspool, of Baltimore, was ordained and consecrated on Saturday. (AP)
ALTAR CALL: Submit yourself to the fire
IT WAS A three-week crusade with a difference.Starting at the Wesleyan Holiness Tabernacle, it made its way to Rockley Clinic Centre, and later to the Pine Community Centre.Reminding all of the Ark of the Covenant being moved from one place to the other, and the children of Israel being led to the Promised Land, the crusade focused on repenting, yielding, setting captives free.Hosted by Prophetess Franceine Anson and Apostle Michael Anson of Weapons Of War Ministries and Inter-Caribbean Evangelism Global Ministries International, with offices in Antigua, the first week of the crusade set the pace for things to come.Many of those attending testified about answered prayers, prophetic confirmations, healings and other spiritual, physical and financial blessings. Antiguan-born Pastor Patrick Roberts, one of the speakers during the crusade, also came with a clear-cut message of the need to have God’s power and fire of the Holy Ghost working in lives to bring about change. He charged, that in order for this to happen, one must see beyond one’s limits.“The Holy Spirit is propelling and pushing you past your limits. Whatever it is you’re going through, it’s because God is taking the limits off you,” Roberts stated.He stressed that everything believers did would be and should be tested by fire to determine its genuineness; even their own lives as Christians.He further disclosed the need to walk in and maintain the anointing on a daily basis, and to allow the fire of God to have full control.“Submit to the fire,” Roberts advised.“The fire of God purifies, perfect and empowers. It also burns everything that is not of God.“For us to live victorious lives every day, we must empty ourselves of the old wine skins and come fresh before God.“Ask God for the fire, so he can purge you,” he stressed.Taking his texts from a variety of scripture, including Acts 2: 3 and 1 Corinthians 3: 13, Roberts said fire would test the works of every believer.“Sometimes the flesh wrestles with the Spirit. If God has called or chosen you, you will be tested by fire, so submit everything to the fire, then you will know what is genuine or not.He preached that once tried with fire, the ability to withstand challenges and tempests was sure.“God may want you to go through the fire before your family so your life can witness to them.“When you submit to the fire, victory is assured, because you will come forth as gold.“More than anything else in our lives we need the fire of God,” he reiterated.Before and after the sermon, praise and adoration emanated from Rockley Clinic’s Convention Centre. Individuals fell to their knees, others stood with their hands raised, while many waited patiently in silence with their heads either bowed in reverence, or turned towards the heavens.Prayers, deliverances and testimonies were also the order of the night before the service came to an end.• cherylharewood @nationnews.com
SILENT DOCTORS: Shedding light on yeast infections
Today, I will continue on the journey of feminine exploration. Female: “Oops! Down there is itching real bad. I tired scratching; it is painful and when I pass urine it burns. I also see a funny-looking discharge.” Silent Doctor: “Be anxious for nothing and be of good cheer.” The above is a peek into yeast infections, so that males who are puzzled about this mysterious health challenge will show more support – because the itching is terrible. Additionally, when a woman is challenged to stop for a moment to deal with a yeast infection, focus must be directed on supporting, loving and detoxing herself. Also, at that time the body is in an acidic state; therefore I will now delve into the darkness of a yeast infection to show you some light.The arrival of a yeast infection into the life of any woman must never be ignored. If after treatment it continues to recur, it means that the woman has not been listening to her higher self, or her belief system is not solid.Many conditions can cause an explosive growth of unwanted guests in the vagina. Once the pH balance of the vagina is changed, bacteria/fungus will grow. Untreated, it can enter the bloodstream. Stress, diabetes, a weak immune system and the use of antibiotics are said to lead to yeast infections, and any woman in the tropics can contract one. Cotton underwear is appropriate and should be washed with herbal soaps. Avoid washing with perfumed soaps or detergents. Stockings must be avoided.My research with Barbadian women has revealed that some have used “silent doctors” and they have proven 100 per cent effective. Turmeric, neem and cinnamon were heralded as being very effective, followed closely by sage. Aloe vera and garlic were rated as excellent. I was advised that the garlic was grated and placed in a hot water bottle and used as a douche. The woman said: “I never had a yeast infection after that treatment because I mastered my diet, detoxed regularly and had my husband treated too.” Another woman took a garlic pod or aloe vera, wrapped it in clean muslin cloth and tied it on a long secured string. She inserted it high into her vaginal channel at night and removed it in the morning. A new one was inserted for seven days. Presto! The infection was healed. Women with yeast infections should also avoid sweet foods, beverages and snacks, including cakes, bread and anything with starch and yeast. They should instead eat raw/uncooked fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water and enjoy a good laugh. Fun-loving is how we were initially created to be. Proper breathing will also assist in healing yeast infections.
• Annette Maynard-Watson, a teacher and herbal educator, may be contacted at silentdoctors @gmail.com or telephone 250-6450.Disclaimer: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific health claims for any products. Any attempt to diagnose and treat real illness should come under the direction of your health care professional.
WILD COOT: Well, is it a sin?
’Tis impossible to love and be wise. – So said some foolish man.Maybe a judge has no option. Maybe the law is an ass. Maybe we are saying that you are permitted to do it illegally but not legally. I am sorry for anyone who is incarcerated for marrying two women.When I was young, doing so would have solved many problems. Perhaps! The question is, is there a precedent? Another pertinent question is: is there any admiration for the effrontery of anyone who is so daring? Would a second wife consent to the connubial bliss? Would a first wife give her blessings? If the law does not intervene, would they live in happy harmony?But the overarching question is: is it a sin? Can it be a sin in one country and not a sin in another? Is not a sin a sin everywhere? For example, stealing!Basically if it is a sin, there are state-accepted-sinners throughout the world in the form of Muslims, Mormons and our forefathers in Africa. Indeed there are even countries among us that overlook the relationships where men have more than one woman in their household, but do not call all of them wives. Therefore are we not being hypocritical and petty?Research has shown that the Muslim population will overtake the Christian in many countries by the year 2050, and most likely that will also apply to Barbados. Maybe by that time the Muslims will be in a position to change the laws in Barbados.But let us look at it from a different point of view. Suppose the first wife who may be from foreign, having no knowledge of the second union come to Barbados to claim what is hers by legal bonds, there would be a hell of a battle for exclusiveness. On the other hand, she may like the second wife and agree to share and share alike. There is a more than a fifty-fifty chance that the two wives would be able to cohabit, seeing the man may be consistent with his choice of women.Let us suppose that he had no choice, and had to marry the first wife or indeed the second wife for whatever reason, then we would have to extend utmost sympathy to him. There are cases where men are taken advantage of, and may qualify for protection, not incarceration. Perhaps that may be the judge’s intent.It seems that we are a confused society. We become more and more confused as cultural penetration penetrates. On the one hand people admit openly to gay relationships and we want to ordain them priests. On the other, the Bible says that homosexuality is a sin; but the Old Testament glorifies Solomon. By the way, Solomon seems to be not only the wisest and horniest, but one of the most mentioned man in the Old Testament. The Bible did not say his having 700 wives and 300 concubines was sinful, it was his harkening unto false gods and foreign women (1 Kings 11). But I stand under correction from someone who may know the Bible better and who may quote from one of those minor prophets like Amos or Habakkuk or Haggai in order to rebuff my argument. Even the action of lying with your handmaid for procreation purposes was not condemned (check Abraham – Genesis 16).Now the state would be under a double whammy. It must feed and clothe a man who may be ahead of the times for committing a sin that is not condemned by Moses with his Ten Commandments (Exodus 20). Perhaps that was one of the commandments that people broke, along with those that we see fit to impose in our exuberance on the people of our land in the questionable name of law and order.Is weed more intoxicating than rum? Cigarettes are known to cause cancer; check Yul Brynner if you can speak to him. Aristotle is quoted as saying: “There was never a great genius without a tincture of madness.” Solomon, son of David, progenitor of Jesus, was a genius. Is any man who marries two women a genius?Harry Russell can be contacted at quijote70@gmail.com