PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo has expressed pleasure at the show of unity demonstrated by the thousands of Guyanese who participated in the Mash celebrations, after hard work.
The air surrounding the festivities took on a decidedly executive flair as the president joined the hundreds of Guyanese assembled in the National Park, the final judging point for the 38-strong float parade.



Then His Excellency joined thousands of revellers on the city streets in his usual attempt to experience the festival first hand. He was thronged by Guyanese from all walks of life, wanting to take pictures with him, a hug or just to shake the hands of the man now known as the Champion of the Earth.
The president’s route took him from JB Chandisingh Road, Thomas Lands, along Vlissengen Road, unto Irving Street, culminating at Lamaha Street.

Acknowledging that the inclement weather of Monday last created some doubt about the event’s staging on its designated day, President Jagdeo noted the difficulties many affected Guyanese had to overcome to participate in the activities.
He said that this show of unity augurs well for the nation’s continued development. What was evident, the president said, was the pride in nationhood as tangibly expressed in the floats participating in the parade.

The President pointed out though two areas that he would like to see revisited if the event is to continue to grow. President Jagdeo suggested that the Mayor and City Council review the quantity of vending licences granted for selling along the Mash route. A reduction, Mr. Jagdeo pointed out, would lead to a concomitant reduction in the pedestrian congestion that usually plagues the festivities.
It is evident too that the parade has outgrown the usual route and this should be revisited by the organising committee for the next event, the President added. (GINA)