The apparent recycling of a message by Junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry made for some confusion during the Department of Culture’s Phagwah celebration yesterday, when she referred to the holiday as “Diwali” and “the Festival of Lights” multiple times during her speech.
“I would begin by saying Happy Phagwah, Happy Holi. On Sunday, March 12th, here in Guyana and around the world, Hindus will be celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights,” she began.
After some prompting from the crowd at the Department’s Main Street office, and the ministry’s public relations officer, the minister corrected herself.
“And today the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport is holding its annual Phagwah celebrations in honour of this festival. This is one of the most joyful festivals in Guyana and one which helps to foster national harmony among our diverse ethnic groups,” she continued, composed and not once flinching to acknowledge her slip.