-on occasion of party’s 75th anniversary
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has played a pivotal role in shaping the history and destiny of Guyana and its contributions mark the party as a foundational pillar of Guyana’s modern political modern history.
These were the remarks of President Irfaan Ali on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PPP, as stated in a release yesterday by the Office of the President.
The President extended congratulations to the party, its members, and supporters, past and present, noting that this “historic” milestone was not only a celebration of the longevity of a political organisation, but “a recognition of the pivotal role the PPP has played in shaping the history and destiny of Guyana.”
The PPP, Ali asserted, was born out of a vision for a free, independent, united, and prosperous Guyana, and since its inception in 1950, it has remained a stalwart advocate for the rights of the working class, for justice, equality, and national development. “The party’s contributions to Guyana’s development and political evolution extend even to the period prior to our Independence, marking the party as a foundational pillar of our nation’s modern political modern history. The formation of the party reignited the nationalist struggle, giving voice, leadership and direction to the aspirations of a people yearning for freedom, dignity, and self-determination.”
Counted among the party’s early and transformative achievements, was its vanguard role in the fight for universal adult suffrage – a landmark victory, which enfranchised all adults and laid the foundation for democratic governance in Guyana. “It affirmed the principle that every citizen, regardless of class, gender, or ethnicity, has an equal stake in the nation’s future,” Ali noted, adding, “The PPP’s commitment to this cause epitomised its belief in the fundamental dignity and equality of all Guyanese.”
Reflecting on the “dark era when the democratic will of the people was trampled upon for nearly a quarter of a century,” the President reminded that the PPP stood “resolutely” at the forefront of the struggle for the restoration of democracy, and through “tireless” struggle and sacrifices, the party championed the return of free and fair elections, culminating in its historic victory in 1992.
The restoration of democracy, he noted, brought with it the “herculean task” of national reconstruction with The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, shouldering the responsibility of rebuilding Guyana from “the ruins of economic decay and despair.” And through its policies, programmes and projects, it laid the groundwork for economic recovery, improved social services, and infrastructural development, rekindling hope among the people.
In addition to its achievements nationally, the Head of State said that his party has also made significant contributions to the struggles of oppressed and colonised peoples, and has championed causes such as decolonisation, regionalism, anti-imperialism, national liberation, and an end to apartheid.
Further, Dr Cheddi Jagan, the late General Secretary of the party, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the struggles against racial oppression and colonial exploitation, was posthumously awarded the prestigious Order of the Companions of Oliver Tambo. His later advocacy for a New Global Human Order, Ali pointed out, highlighted the need for a fairer and more equitable world system. And throughout its history, the PPP has forged fraternal relations with progressive forces and movements, including those fighting for freedom and national liberation.
President Ali also acknowledged the the “tireless support and unrelenting loyalty” of the party’s members and its extensive grassroots support, without which, none of its achievements would have been possible. And as such, on this the party’s 75th anniversary, its membership and supporters deserve acclaim and applause.
The President expressed that the PPP’s commitment to the ideals of democracy, social justice, and national unity continues to inspire hope and confidence in the future of Guyana, with a vision for Guyana where every citizen has a stake in its future. An ideal, he posited, that remains as relevant today as it was at the party’s inception.