COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, Donald Ramotar reminded soldiers that professionalism is paramount, as he joined the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for its annual Christmas luncheon at Camp Ayanganna yesterday. The Head of State joined the army’s Chief of Staff Commodore, Gary Best in serving meals to the soldiers as is the custom at the social gathering, after delivering encouraging remarks.
He told the officers that the government regards professionalism in the force highly, and that the right of every soldier to his/her opinion and freedom of conscience will be respected.
The president was assured by the Chief of Staff that the cadre of servicemen and women in the force who put their lives at risk for the nation, are professional and willing to serve.
Commodore Best made a pitch for emphasis to be placed on the education budget for the force in 2012, so that ranks can have better opportunities for pursuing education.
President Ramotar endorsed the proposal, reiterating his government’s policy on education in Guyana.
“Generally, in our country, we hold very highly the position of education, and we believe that education has a very important part to play in the development of our country,” President Ramotar said.
He commended the officers for following the mandate of safeguarding the country’s borders, noting that national sovereignty is close to the heart of the government, and that their dedication to promoting national sovereignty is greatly appreciated.
Their role in supplementing the work of the Guyana Police Force in law and order in society was also hailed by President Ramotar, who made reference to their role in the recently concluded general and regional elections.
“Operation Plexus minimized any problems at our last elections and has helped greatly to preserve our democracy. This is something I hold in very high regard, because I feel very strongly that our country cannot have social and economic development in any sustained way unless we live in a democratic state and unless democracy is preserved and expanded,” President Ramotar said.