– much more than political campaigning, a time to take stock…Persaud
ALL preparations are progressing according to plan, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) spokesman Robert Persaud said yesterday, adding that today’s grand Unity Rally and Concert is much more than political campaigning. “The theme is essentially national unity and the vision for Guyana’s development…it is an opportunity also to celebrate in a larger way our unity and our linkages with the Caribbean,” he said.
Persaud maintained that elections are about democracy, as well as the celebration of unity and diversity, showcasing talent and a vivid representation of the strands of Guyana’s cultural fabric.
The minister said the speakers delivering addresses today include the PPP/C Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar, the Prime Ministerial Candidate Samuel Hinds, President Bharrat Jagdeo and Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon, among others – all of whom will be emphasising the message of unity and the need to foster harmony in the Guyanese society.
According to him, there will be extra security measures in place at the National Stadium.
“We have had several meetings with the Guyana Police Force and there will not only be regular security, but additional security measures, because it is a mega event and we want to ensure people’s safety…we have had some intense discussions with the police force and we are sure that these measures will be put in place,” he said.

TAKE STOCK
“This is much more than a political event…on the eve of an election, it is important for us to take stock and what is important here is not only the PPP/C or any other political party, but the people of Guyana. For us, this is why we see this unity rally and concert as something greater that another political activity,” Persaud said.
According to him, the criticisms thrown at the hosting of the rally and concert are disturbing, for the simple reason that this is an attempt to continue to build national unity and foster harmony and any objections is a disservice to the Guyanese people.
Persaud registered the party’s disgust at attempts made to intimidate performers scheduled to perform today, including soca artiste Destra, whose Facebook page was muddied with unpleasant  comments.
“The personal attacks launched by prominent opposition individuals who have talked about what should happen to her and what should not happen to her..these are the people who pretend and talk about national unity on the AFC platform and the APNU platform…this is ridiculous and denigrating behaviour,” he said.
Persaud made it clear that the factions responsible for these attacks are deviant and do not represent mainstream Guyanese society.
Earlier this week, he called for stakeholders to  focus on ensuring that the voting process goes smoothly.
He called on all stakeholders to support a free and fair elections process, rather then engage in acts that will impinge on the right of every Guyanese to associate with the political party of his choice.
Persaud stated that regardless of political affiliation, all are welcome to today’s event, adding that at the end of the day Guyana will see a further recommitment by the people to national unity and harmony.