I vividly recall how high and volatile the tension was months before. People were apprehensive to display their sentiments publicly, but extremely confident of the outcome if agreed procedures were adhered to. Optimism was rife, evident in conversations; conversions which were vociferous at public show of support but reduced to lower decibels in smaller gatherings. In these small gatherings, activists for change risked their lives to ensure that all were kept abreast about the winds of change that were fast approaching. Fear permeated. It was the key used by the incumbent to suppress the masses. This was the norm for almost three decades.

Over these years, a wary people, including many who publicly proclaim their loyalty to the political bosses, yearned for change. Fear led to such display of loyalty shown by some. Many who mustered the courage to openly advocate their desire for a transition of power encountered the brutal wrath of those who commanded the armed forces. This tactic was successful in curbing most public demonstrations that demanded change. However, it was futile in breaking the spirits of the masses who saw the best, and maybe, the only opportunity for the winds of change to blow across the Atlantic and descend into every square inch of the 83,000 square miles of the only English speaking country in South America.

The struggles of the nearly three decades were on the homestretch of its climax. Prior to this historic moment, some were relentless and consistent in their pursuit to end the reign of the dictatorial regime which had raped and destroyed every fabric of the weave that represented a nation crying for help. These valiant champions of change, led by the indomitable Dr Cheddi Jagan, sacrificed much in their quest to sensitise the international community to the atrocities committed on a defenceless populace by a dictator. They sacrificed much in their endeavours for democracy to have its rebirth after twenty-eight years. They sacrificed much for this nation to once again be free.

These sacrifices culminated in the dawn of a new era which ushered in the return to democracy seventeen years ago. October 5 will forever be etched in the annals of this nation’s history as the day Guyana truly became free; a day when Guyanese, especially those who struggled, were rewarded for their endurance; a day when dictatorship fell; a day when transparency and democratic principles returned; a day when Dr Jagan took his rightful place as leader of a freed nation; a day that saw the beginning of the prosperity which now prevails.

Many would have stories about their harsh experiences during that regime’s stranglehold on this nation from 1964-1992. All of these stories, when analysed, will have a number of commonalities, including lack of freedom and lack of economic opportunities for personal advancement. Today, these inhumane impositions are locked in the past. Seventeen years after, Guyana and its people prosper; seventeen years after the economy is vibrant and continues to grow; seventeen years after development continues unabated; seventeen years after the country’s international image and profile have been restored; seventeen years after it leads in the global quest to save the planet from the current trend of changing climatic conditions.

Following the deaths of Dr Jagan and his wife, the two people who led the struggles for a better Guyana, this nation remains strong with a resolute young leader at the helm. President Jagdeo has defied the odds and has led Guyana to economic prosperity. He continues to advance Guyana’s position as the leader in this part of the world. His achievements are numerous. Today the many new schools, hospitals, roads, bridges including Berbice and Takutu, inclusive governance, advancement in Information Technology, the Skeldon factory, the Cuban Scholarship programme, the housing thrust, the Stadium and the retooling of the disciplined services are just a few testimonies to progress, the President’s astute leadership and the commitment of the People’s Progressive Party to the development of this nation.

The generation is gradually changing. Those whose memories have been scarred by the atrocities of the PNC will not only be proud of Guyana’s advancement under the PPP, but will deeply appreciate the many profound changes that have taken place. The younger generation in the 20-22 age group will have no recollection of the pains and sufferings their parents endured under the PNC regime. The fact that they did not experience what their parents did is in keeping with a particular aspect of the culture our forefathers brought from their various homelands; a culture of making it better for their children. This principle still governs mankind.

Today, the children of Guyana are far better off than their parents were, thanks to the commitment of the PPP and the vision of the President.
October 5, is truly Guyana’s day of redemption.