THE month of March marks the death anniversaries of both the Father and Mother of the nation, Dr. Cheddi Jagan and his wife and companion, Mrs. Janet Jagan.
To commemorate this period, several events are held to honour the life of the Jagans and their contribution to the development of Guyana and their fight for freedom.
Last evening, “At home with the Jagans” was held at their Bel Air/Prashad Nagar home, and featured reflections from friends and family members who took the opportunity to share their fond memories.
In her address to the gathering last evening, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jagan, Mrs. Nadira Jagan-Brancier, noted that the event was started in 2009 and has since grown as more persons are visiting the memorial home to commemorate the special occasion.
She said, “This home is a simple home that reflects their lives which were also simple; and I am happy to see more persons visiting to join in remembrance of my parents and their lives.”
Paying a special tribute on the occasion, Speaker of the National Assembly and Central Executive member of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Ralph Ramkarran, noted that the Jagans were indeed special people who played an integral role in the shaping of this nation.
He pointed out that their home was a focal point for the discussion of business especially as it related to issues concerning the roles and functions of the party.
Mr. Ramkarran particularly noted the efforts of Mrs. Jagan and her contribution during the years of struggle since arriving in this country.
“She was a very friendly person who maintained friendships with people who did not always look favourably on the PPP,” he fondly remembered.
He emphasized that Mrs. Jagan was also a very generous individual who demonstrated this generosity which defined her character.
“This is a side of her character that many who had close relationships with her were aware of, she had no discrimination, and was always interested in what the members of the party were doing in order to achieve the party’s objective.
In her tribute, Mrs. Yvonne Hinds, wife of Prime Minister explained that Mrs. Jagan was a “genuinely good woman” who was very purpose-driven.
“She has caused a lot of changes in women’s lives in this country and she gave her life for this country,” she said.