RESIDENTS of Regions 8(Potaro Siparuni) and 9 (Upper Takatu / Upper Essequibo) last Saturday paid homage to Guyana’s former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan on his 16th death anniversary with wreath laying ceremonies at Karasabai (Region 9) and Kopinang (Region 8).

Representatives from various arms of the Peoples Progressive Party / Civic (PPP) such as the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) and the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) also graced the event to give their remarks.
The PYO representative Tony Jadoopat in his remarks at Karasabai noted that Dr Jagan helped to raise Guyana into a strong and united country.
He further stated that Dr Jagan left behind a legacy that enriches our life and to remind us that there was a man of unusual moral and intellectual stature who blended his ideas with a vibrant activism, something which is not often seen in this combination, as in his life and so in death, he has become a major part in the lives of all Guyanese.
He noted that our current President Mr. Donald Ramotar has been following in Dr Jagan’s footsteps to make Guyana even better.
He added that his teachings to the young people of Guyana have propelled them to become great young leaders and benefit their country regardless of race, religion and colour and that Dr Jagan’s vision will always be the guiding star for many.
Meanwhile, Mimoon Boodhoo, a member of the WPO noted that it was Dr Jagan who saw the need for women in Guyana to be mobilised thus the formation of the WPO an organisation to champion the cause of working women in this country. To date, this organisation has been able to make a difference in the lives of many women all across Guyana.
Executive member of the PPP and presidential Adviser to the President on Science and Technology, Navin Chanderpaul dedicated a very touching poem to Dr Jagan which he authored and was recited at the ceremony by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Collin Croal.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Ganga Persaud in his remarks noted that this is no simple ceremony but rather everyone’s presence is to celebrate the life of Dr Cheddi Jagan.
He stated that as all are born humans, no matter of greatness, the almighty will recall us one day noting that “once we are born, we will all die.”
“What makes the difference is how well we would’ve served humanity and fellow human beings during our lifetime” Persaud said.
He added that sentiments expressed by everyone who gave their remarks at the ceremony would have all added and help to accept a statement of fact that among the greatest of men who lived in this world would be the name of Dr Cheddi Jagan and among the greatest men who lived in Guyana standing very tall and high would be the name Dr Cheddi Jagan, Persaud added, noting that this is because he has given everyone a number of things to celebrate.
Dr Jagan has left a vision for everyone to see a better Guyana and hope that everyone will live to see a better day, he has also shown that education is a pathway for everyone to elevate themselves in this life from where they are today and place oneself at a higher level tomorrow, Persaud noted.
He stated that Dr Jagan has rekindled that sense of patriotism ensuring that everyone recognises that Guyana is home and one must take pride in it.
Persaud highlighted that the vision Dr Jagan left for the Guyanese people has four pillars being Racial Harmony, National Unity, National Independence and Peace within Oneself.
He stated that as a minister, he is proud to be paying homage to someone who deserves this ceremony and more pride is taken to be speaking at activities to help reflect on the life and contribution to a leader who would’ve made life changing contributions as he was an outstanding contributor to Guyana’s present state.
He added that the PPP/C Government was very pleased when last year, the United Nations accepted that Dr Cheddi Jagan’s vision for a New Human Global Order which is the only salvation for world peace and sustenance and further stating that may Dr Jagan’s soul rest in peace and his vision continue to be the torch guiding the society today.
A wreath laying ceremony held at Kopinang was held and carried similar sentiments and remarks from the attendees.