Guyanese are not short of talent. The creativity was evident in the hundreds of intricate pieces that were a feast for the eyes. The music has risen to new heights with many, if not all, that were composed for this year’s celebration, being comparable to the standards of what is being set as Caribbean rhythms. Some may argue that, over the years, a few compositions may even be better following the success of some local artistes internationally. Food for thought.

The costuming for Mash has evolved to capture some aspects of “carnivalism”. While this can be debated for appropriateness, this wardrobe evolution has generated much interest and, I dare say, has become an attraction for onlookers as well as revellers. More food for thought. Whilst contemplating, a reflection of the mood on the nation a year ago will reveal a shocked country which was plunged into mourning following the brutal slaughtering of defenceless Guyanese in Lusignan and Bartica. This once inconceivable crime resulted in the down-scaling of some national events, including Mash. It is believed that this crime was not by coincidence and it is alleged that the perpetrators may have had tacit support from elements within the opposition.

The main opposition is not divorced from incidents that are disruptive to the nation’s progress and the wellbeing of its citizens. Our history is punctuated with the details. One can recall that following the Mash 2002 Camp Street jailbreak, strong evidence suggest that the bandits, after their escape, may have received support from the senior members of the main opposition. One television personality closely associated with that party was seen conducting an interview the gang’s leader who brandished an assault rifle during the televised discussion. These incidents not only led to the further confirmation of the disruptive nature of the opposition, but proved, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that the resilience of the Guyanese people seems incomparable.

The perpetrators and their benefactors underestimated this engrained trait of the people of this nation. Seven years after that escape from Camp Street which led to an onslaught of heinous crimes, Guyana, while hurt, continued along the path of progress and its people more formidable and resilient. Mash was scaled down last year and understandably so. Some bands participated; participation that showed despite adversities, Guyanese will not allow their spirits to be broken by the actions of a few. The last twelve months have been bitter sweet. The massacres forced a bitter dose; Carifesta X provided an opportunity for the nation to rise out of the shadows of gloom.

The nation rose. All regardless of their situations and preferences contributed to a mega event that was seen as a test of resilience and hospitality. That voluntary synchronisation of efforts from the corners of the land saw the dissipating of that gloom and the emergence of colours swaying to the rhythms of the Caribbean and beyond; colours which represent the nation’s rich diversity; beats that keep us in harmony; sweet harmony. That harmony was evident during the float parade yesterday and the many events prior. This is despite the efforts of a few commercial entities which felt that their non-participation in Mash this year would have caused a reduction in splendour and attraction.

They were wrong; dead wrong. Just like the perpetrators and their supporters of the crimes following the 2002 jailbreak and the massacres, they underestimated the will of the Guyanese people; a will that cannot be broken. The main opposition did not support Carifesta X; they did not participate. Their political selfishness in not participating did not prevent Guyana from hosting the most diverse, vibrant and colourful festival of Caribbean arts to date. The involvement, participation and attendance are unprecedented. Mash 2009, as evident from the participation and attendance of the various events, was not affected by the actions of a few companies.

The Guyanese people must be commended for this enviable trait of resilience. Twelve months is a very short period of time given the circumstances the country faced. Those who lost their loved ones at the hands of the merciless gunmen will forever feel that pain. Even though they may recover from the trauma, the experience will not be forgotten. These survivors are examples of the magnitude of the strength of the Guyanese people. The fact, that within twelve months of those two horrifying crimes the country was able to host the mega event of Carifesta X and celebrate in a sea of splendour its 39th Republic anniversary, speak volumes of its social cohesiveness. This cohesiveness, for any nation, cannot be isolated from the resolute leadership provided by its principals. Guyana is not different.

The intention of those who orchestrated the attacks mentioned is well known. As it relates to the alleged support they received, it can only be concluded that it was another attempt following the Camp Street escape, to destabilise a democratically elected government. Conscious of their inability to win a democratic election, the main opposition seemed desperate and may have been involved in efforts to gain a “back door” entry to office. During the days following the Lusignan massacre, there were attempts by anti-government elements to take of advantage of the emotions of the survivors and residents for political ascension and glorification.

Again, whilst not understanding the natural tendencies to exhibit such emotions, time showed that they underestimated the resilience of Guyanese. During that time, the mature and guided leadership provided by President Jagdeo was inspiring. He proved yet again his astuteness in steering a worried nation out of despair as he did during the floods of 2005. Guyana’s return to economic prosperity and its growing international image is evidence of his leadership qualities. He and Guyana have been tested. The successes of the laborious efforts are evident, and in keeping to the true meaning of Mashramani, the celebrations yesterday were not only vibrant, colourful, and massive, but deserving given the challenges faced. If only the detractors can move to the beats of reality. Still more food for thought.