–hosts its biggest celebrations ever

REGION 9 this year hosted what is arguably one of its largest Mashramani celebrations to date, and with much pomp and ceremony, inclusive of a Float Parade around the community, and its own Flag Raising Ceremony.

Joining celebrants in observing Guyana’s 44th Republican Anniversary in that region was Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda K. Gopaul, who delivered the feature address on the eve of February 23, just minutes before the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted at the stroke of midnight.
In his address, the minister called on residents to be vigilant, and ensure that the gains made in the country over recent years are not diminished, and the country’s economy put into a state of uncertainty as a result of inactivity in the parliament over current issues and projects.
He specifically addressed the issue of the pending anti-money laundering legislation, and highlighted the many dangers facing the country, should this Bill not be passed at the next sitting of the National Assembly on Thursday.
He further called on the community to insist that their political leaders and representatives in Parliament adopt a patriotic approach towards the Bill at reference, and put aside all political differences at this point.
He also mentioned in passing that for Guyana to continue on the developmental path it has taken, every Guyanese and political party must play their part since Republican status, democracy and freedom do not envisage partisan approaches to national development, but rather the involvement of everyone putting their shoulders to the wheel and becoming advocates in the development process.
Further appealing to the residents and community leaders in Region 9 to continue working towards the development of the region, Dr. Gopaul pointed to the fact the Government of Guyana is working to ensure every region develops apace, since the Government views the development of every region as integral to the development of Guyana. “Once any Region remains underdeveloped, then Guyana will be reflected through that underdevelopment,” he said.
On the issue of the Opposition using its one-seat majority in the House to slash the national budgets over the last two years, Minister Gopaul told residents that those cuts will have dire consequences for the economy, “as they prevent development from taking place, such as the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, the Specialty Hospital, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion Project, and even the development of a regional airstrip in Guyana, as well as other capital projects…”
In light of this, he asked the people of Region 9 to be vigilant, and not allow Guyana to move backwards, or to a state of under-development or where essential goods and services cannot be provided to the citizens of the country.
He also expressed the hope that by the time Guyana turns 50, it would have reached that stage “where our citizens who were forced to flee this country in droves, would once again return with joy to see prosperity and development all around.”
Commending the region for organising the celebrations so well, Minister Gopual congratulated all state agencies, private organisations, and individuals which participated in the street parade and Flag Raising ceremony.
Residents of Region Nine turned out in large numbers to the events, and were joined by overseas visitors, including those from the State of Roraima in neighbouring Brazil.
Also addressing the Flag Raising ceremony was Regional Chairman, Mr Wilson Lorentio.