The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend best wishes for the festival of Phagwah to all Guyanese especially the Hindu community. As our people celebrate this truly colourful festival, the PPP urges that its deep significance through its pertinent messages be reflected upon and be seen as a source of inspiration.It is most unfortunate that this celebratory inclusive festival comes at a time when our country is being divided by discriminatory polices imposed by the Administration. It comes at a time when uncertainty prevails and fear is instilled; when humanity is being trampled upon; when freedoms are threatened; when people are being demoralized and despondency engulfs.
Our Party is cognizant that the values of the occasion of Phagwah are emphasized to promote the well-being of all mankind and the celebration is also associated with welcoming of the spring season which brings joy and delight to all living beings. Phagwah also reminds us of the triumph of good over evil through the story of Prahalad, who defied his father, a despotic King.
This defiance continues to be a source of inspiration in the face of adversity reminding that there is always a road to fulfillment. On this occasion, our Party calls on all Guyanese to be inspired by the significance of Phagwah and not to lose hope. Our Party believes that such inspiration would fortify our resolve and belief; that good will once again triumph over evil and that the road to fulfillment will be reached.
This year, Phagwah comes at the same time the 100th anniversary of the Abolition of Indian Indentureship in Guyana is being observed. The nation’s East Indian ancestors brought these rich religious and cultural traditions and preserved them through untold sacrifices while being oppressed. They remained resolute and never lost hope despite the adversities foisted upon them.
As we reflect and commemorate, let’s also draw inspiration from their relentlessness. Our Party once again uses this opportunity to extend best wishes for Phagwah to all and calls on Guyanese not to be deterred by the prevailing climate of uncertainty.
People’s Progressive Party