President Irfaan Ali, First Lady Arya Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips and several cabinet members joined thousands of Guyanese at the Anna Regina car park in Damon Square to witness the 56th Independence Anniversary and Flag Raising ceremony. It was the first-ever National Independence flag-raising ceremony to be held in Essequibo.
The programme was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and featured outstanding performances and local artistes from across the country celebrating Guyana’s six peoples and “One Guyana”.
The military parade, led by ranks of the Guyana Defence Force and the National Cadet Corps, marched on with the arrival of Prime Minister Mark Phillips. They then awaited the arrival of President Irfaan Ali after which he proceeded to address the huge gathering.
“Transformation”
The President in his message, reflected on the country’s struggle to gain Independence. He also disclosed that the government had decided to rotate the holding of this national event across the country.
“Tonight we celebrate the unification as a people, we send a message that every single region is important… Today I encourage Region Two to congratulate yourself.”
Ali called on Guyanese to stand united as a nation to protect its territorial rights while assuring that Guyana is committed to being friendly to its neighbours.
“My government is committed to a broad based electoral reform… Already the country is experiencing a phenomenal growth rate… We understand far too well that our economy cannot be measured by a balance sheet.”
He noted that Guyana has embarked on a journey to transform Guyanese lives and in less than two years improve the housing sector. He said that every day the government is engaged in creating pathway for the citizens of this country to lift their standard of living.
“Memorial”
People started to arrive at the Anna Regina car park as from as early as 18:00 hours to secure a seat. When ask how they felt about the big event, many of them related that it was a memorable night day for Essequibo.
“Since I grow up here I never noticed such, I am glad that Region Two was selected, it created such attention for the region, the preparation and transformation of the Town was amazing” a resident Shelia Rampersaud said.
Sixteen-year-old Ashley Narine said that she was excited when she heard of the event. She remarked that for years to come, she will keep the event alive in her memory.
