….President Bharrat Jagdeo at Christmas Tree light-up
A cheerful and expectant crowd gathered last evening to share in the symbolic occasion as the Ministry of Tourism hosted its 5th annual Christmas Tree light-up at Rahaman’s Park, East Coast Demerara. Dignitaries and jubilant guests alike clamored to witness the Christmas tree ablaze with lights, momentous occasion signaling the beginning of the festive season, the spirit of togetherness evident on the faces of the hundreds of Guyanese and visitors present.
As the gathering anxiously awaited the beginning of the programme, they were serenaded by the soothing sounds of steel pan music while they engaged in spirited chatter with their friends and families.
In his message on the occasion, President Bharrat Jagdeo urged those present to be mindful of the fact that while they are celebrating, PNCR Member of Parliament, Mr. Winston Murray, is in a critical condition in the hospital and encouraged them to observe a moment of silence for the entire family.
President Jagdeo, highlighting that it is the season of goodwill as the Christ Child brought hope into the world, said, “We must understand the significance of this time and I hope that the season brings happiness and personal progress so that the level of progress in the country also grows.”
He pointed out that the event has grown over the years, and so too the symbolism has developed, “So too must hope, pride and progress grow,” he said, adding, “we must be champions and drivers of progress for our country.”
He called on all religious leaders to remember and to advocate for hope during their religious ceremonies and to remind persons about the love of their country as we all need to unite to fight bigotry and racism wherever it exists.
Jagdeo stated, “When we hear bigotry we must not be indifferent, we must object to it to change the way we see ourselves, which will lead to unity, adding, “Take a stand against the ills of society.”
Alluding to the increase in crimes against women and children this year, he emphasized the importance of speaking out against such actions in order to bring about a change in the country, as indifference has caused the lives of many innocent persons in the past.
“Let the symbolic lighting up of the tree herald the lighting up of our lives and our country,” the President encouraged.
Continuing, President Jagdeo highlighted the changes the country has undergone over the past years from a basket case to one of the most dynamic countries and pointed out that we have a growing profile as the country assumes the chairmanship of the UNASUR meetings next week.
“I urge you to partake in the event, but I hope  the significance of bringing people together is not lost and that hope will continue to grow until it becomes part of our lives and our country,” Jagdeo stressed.