PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament Odinga Lumumba told Region 6 residents that Independence means moving the people of a nation forward, and it brings the ability of those in power to do things for the country’s citizens.

MP Lumumba was at the time presenting the feature address at the 47th Independence Flag Raising Ceremony in New Amsterdam, Berbice.
Speaking directly about Region 6 development, he said, “I believe that this government has served the people of Region 6 well. I also recognise that there are things we have not done…these we have to isolate and do.”
Giving a brief background to Guyana’s independence, and the fight of Guyanese leaders and their followers for the freedom of their country, Lumumba emphasised the importance of young people knowing from where they came before they know where they are now.
Pointing out that present day is different from the days of the pre and post- independence periods, he observed that challenges remain. The MP outlined the challenges in the various sectors, and the position government has taken to deal with them. He highlighted issues in health, housing, industry, the economy, job creation, transportation, sugar, housing and transportation, and focused especially on the need for a cheaper source of power and the resultant spin-offs which would come from this. These would include increased investment and job creation.
Lumumba also pointed to the future plans of government for the well-being of  Guyanese, and focused on Berbice and the major projects which were carried out in that region.
Regional Chairman David Armogan urged residents to forget the concept of dependence which he pointed out was inherited from colonial times . “You have to work for yourselves,” he insisted, highlighting areas where such work could be done.
The formal programme of the flag raising event was punctuated with multi-ethnic cultural performances reflecting Guyana’s diversity incorporated over time.