The 38th Republic anniversary comes at a time when the nation desperately needs to hold steadfastly to the unity of purpose and endeavour, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) said.
In a press release to mark the occasion, GAWU noted that Guyana is experiencing many challenges. It said it “yearns for the relative collective agreement of 1970 to be a characteristic of our country’s national behaviour once again.”
Despite setbacks over the past 38 years, “we have dealt, worked and played together in our diversity” when many other, older Republics cannot boast of the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious cohesion and peace, which Guyana takes for granted.
Additionally, GAWU said despite the internal problems and international pressures, which have caused economic depression and social shortcomings, the nation has enjoyed significant success in the face of some dangerous distractions from time to time.
It said recent successes such as peaceful general elections, international determination that the eastern maritime border is as Guyana had defined it, increased Brazilian cooperation for economic development, Indian, Chinese and Japanese assistance with landmark infrastructure have boosted the country.
However, GAWU said it could not attempt to ignore the threatening environment and ever present danger. The union said it unhesitatingly rejected the machinations of those sponsors, mercenaries and death gangs who have unleashed domestic terrorism on an innocent population.
The union said it was appalled that after two horrific killings some leaders are busy constructing political platforms rather than joining in the much-needed national front to fight this insidious domestic terrorism. GAWU and the wider Guyanese society are wise enough to discern the patriotic from opportunistic, the release said.
Meanwhile, the union said it is heartened by the sober and mature demonstration of resolve and solidarity displayed nationwide in the face of trials and threats. GAWU said it also welcomes the government’s determination to lead from the front by funding the Joint Services, appealing for international assistance and mobilizing stakeholders in the fight against crime.
