Guyana’s 43rd Republic anniversary was celebrated at the regional level observing the unique traditions of each administration and its peoples.
In Region 2, communities were entertained on Friday evening with specific renditions aimed to remind them of the freedoms now being enjoyed.
It was a sight to behold as patriotic Guyanese paid homage to the land for which their foreparents and heroes

fought. Culturally enriched remarks and artistic presentations filled the air with a sense of pride.
Delivering the keynote address was Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, who for the benefit of the youth present and as a reminder to the others, went back in time about events that occurred. He noted that February 23, 1970 holds significance for the country.
“After years and years of struggle in 1992, our people once again won freedom, when for the first time, after a number of years, free and fair elections were held in the country and the voice of the people was finally counted.”
The Minister of Legal Affairs encouraged the gathering to protect the freedoms that Guyana’s republican status offers. “In recent times, as you would have seen, the freedom that we would have struggled for and that Republic Day represents, is under siege once again.”
He explained that republican status means freedom; constitutional liberty, prevalence of the rule of law. “It means democracy must prevail.
“We now see that freedom and that democracy being under severe assault in the parliament of our country, an institution which ought to ensure that the liberty of the subjects and democracy on the whole are protected, preserved and advanced.”
Region 2 Chairman Parmanand Persaud also addressed the gathering which was entertained by performances including from the Lake Mainstay and Charity Dancers.
Region 2 has become developed over the years with government’s investment in areas such as roads and transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and culture.
Meanwhile, the region held its Mash float parade on Saturday morning in Anna Regina which saw over a dozen bands participating. Among the contingents were the Ministries of Education and Culture Youth and Sport, Lima Sands WPO group, Regional Democratic Council, New Opportunity Corps, Amerindian villages, Jaigobin and Sons and Banks DIH.
The parade culminated at the Anna Regina Community centre where Minister Nandlall, the Regional Chairman and other regional officials mingled with the revellers.  (GINA)