MINISTER of Home Affairs Clement Rohee on the eve of the 47th independence anniversary called on all citizens to work together “to ensure that every Guyanese man, woman and child live in a prosperous Guyana.” Minister Rohee was at the time delivering the feature address at a flag raising ceremony at Anna Regina, Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam).

He said that around the world, the fight for independence came after many struggles and loss of lives. In Guyana it was no different; this struggle was driven by the trade union movement, political parties and even religious bodies.
“The British didn’t offer us independence on a platter; it was after these struggles that the British was forced to grant independence…for us, it was a national struggle that involved all races, classes and social strata. The struggle for independence was a struggle for all of Guyana,” the Home Affairs Minister said.
He explained that managing a country’s affairs after over a century of colonial dominance is not by any measure an easy task. As Guyana maintains its political independence, it has to also ensure the maintenance of its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Minister Rohee said that many times, foreigners try to dictate what position Guyana should or should not take on certain national issues.
“We are an intelligent people; we know what is best for Guyana. While we listen and learn from their experiences, in the final analysis it is us as Guyanese who have to make the decisions…the future of our country is in our own hands,” he said.
He said that as a small, developing country, Guyana still has many challenges to overcome on the economic front. The Home Affairs Minister explained how international economic instability affects the local economy and its ability to earn foreign exchange.
He added that even though 47 years as an independent nation may not seem like a long time, one must reflect and understand and appreciate the many achievements that have been realised to date.
“Our country remains a shining example compared to many other countries in the Caribbean. I call on every citizen to ensure that we continue to work for the upliftment and future of our country,” Minister Rohee urged.
Meanwhile, Region 2 Chairman, Parmanand Persaud recalled that when Guyana won independence in 1966, the struggles continued until October 1992, when the PPP/C took Office. He said that working under the theme, “Time for Change; Time to Rebuild”, the PPP/C transformed the landscape of Guyana from a state of deterioration.
Speaking of the development in his region, the Regional Chairman said that under the ruling party, agriculture has blossomed, infrastructure has been transformed and health, education and other social services have improved drastically.
After 163 years of British rule, Guyana won its independence on May 26, 1966, when the Union Jack was lowered and the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted.