GUYANESE remain firm in their belief that Guyana is a good country, and that there is potential for it to move forward as the people remain resolute, committed and hard working, Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul told residents of Corriverton, Region 6 at the 47th independence flag-raising ceremony on May 25.

Prior to the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead at mid-night at the Civic Centre, the gathering was entertained by a cultural mix of songs, skits and dances performed by residents.
Minister Gopaul recalled that when the Union Jack was replaced by the Golden Arrowhead, 47 years ago, two of Guyana’s greatest leaders were present – former Presidents L.F.S. Burnham and Dr. Cheddi Jagan.
‘Despite grave difficulties at the political level, Cheddi Jagan did not miss the occasion…it was a moment of pride and joy for us…our struggle for independence started since the 1950s,” Dr. Gopaul reminded. In 1953, when Dr. Jagan was premier, he lobbied for Guyana’s Independence.
Dr. Gopaul noted that this occasion was followed by some bitter political periods. “Politics is about fighting for turf and ensuring those who can win the popular votes become leaders in the country, but politics is also about leaders serving the people and country with integrity, humility and looking after the people’s interests before their personal interests,” he said.
The minister pointed out that because of the resolve and commitment of Guyanese, they have been able to progress, and cited as an example those who have made sacrifices for their children to get an education, which resulted in Guyana topping the Caribbean at the CSEC level. This holds long-term positives for the country’s economy.
Dr. Gopaul noted that apart from investments in health care and education, attention has also been placed on providing opportunities for youths, and on developing hinterland communities.
Member of Parliament, Fizal Jaffarally, in his remarks, emphasised that the celebration of Guyana’s 47th Independence gives a sense of pride and belonging to a state. “We are proud to be Guyanese, we are proud of our symbols, we are proud of our development…the road to independence has been a difficult one, and therefore, I want to salute those who led the struggle against our colonial masters so that we now have an independent nation,” he said.
Jaffarally, alluding to the development of the country, stressed that over the years the government has made significant investments to transform Region 6. These investments are most visible in the form of new schools, health facilities, roads and bridges, and developments in housing and water.
Cabinet members had on May 25 fanned out to all the administrative regions to join residents in celebrating the 47th independence anniversary. (GINA)
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Caption:  Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul, addresses the gathering at the 47th Independence Anniversary flag-raising ceremony at the Civic Centre, Skeldon, Region 6