THE vision of the ‘Father of the Nation’, the late former president, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, continues to inform the policies of his party, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), with the intent to improve the lives of all citizens of Guyana.

And at yesterday’s memorial for Dr. Jagan, First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar — who spoke on behalf of her husband, President Donald Ramotar, who is away on government business –- was the first to make note of this when she said “…this ‘Man of the People’ remains alive as a living guide for as long as his vision remains alive.”

The First Lady’s observations were preceded by a massive march of over 300 members of the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) who, decked out in red, yellow and black, moved along the Port Mourant Public Road shouting: “Long live Cheddi Jagan!” “Long live the PYO!” “Cheddi Jagan: Man of the People!” and “Long live the PPP!”

The energy of the PYO enthused the already mammoth gathering at the Babu John memorial site, where the march ended.

With accommodation for the large gathering being insufficient, many had to squat on the ground, as encouraged by the host, Navin Chandarpal, whose squatting quip was one of the many light moments at the solemn occasion.
Bob Marley’s ‘Don’t worry’ added to the tangibly charged atmosphere, where the gathering was united by their intention to pay tribute to a man who was unquestionably a man of and for the Guyanese people.

 VISION RELEVANT TODAY
This charged disposition was evident when Party General Secretary, Clement Rohee took the platform and underscored the relevance of Dr. Jagan’s vision even today. He said, “His life and work has been enduring, and has stood the test of time, and all leaders of the PPP have drawn examples from his life as guidance.”

Rohee added that the party’s legacy is a rich one, grounded in a “fight” against political bullies for democracy, for peace and progress, and to create a new Global Human Order.

The New Global Human Order was adopted at the 62nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. The crux of Dr. Jagan’s New Global Human Order is that there is enough food and resources in the world to feed every man, woman and child. The problem essentially has to do with the distribution of such resources, which are heavily skewed in favour of the rich. In addition to the uneven distribution of resources, there is also the question of valuable resources being spent on weapons of mass destruction; whereas, if that money were mobilized for human development, it could end hunger, death and ignorance in the world at large.

As the name implies, the New Global Human Order speaks to a more humane and caring society; one in which the resources of the world are spent on the uplifting of humanity as a whole, and not to fatten the already rich and powerful. In this regard, the resolution acknowledges that human development is inextricably linked to peace and security.

It is to the credit of Dr. Jagan and the diplomatic efforts of the Foreign Affairs Ministry that the resolution received co-sponsorship of some 74 countries, including China and India, two of the most populous countries of the world. The resolution received co-sponsorship from the neighbouring countries of Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela, in addition to that of the CARICOM grouping of countries.

The PPP General-Secretary stated that while much has been done, there is still much to do; but he said that the party’s programmes are a work in progress, even as he reiterated the commitment expressed by the President and members of the current Administration to the flagship development projects, such as the Amaila Falls Hydro-power project.

“The PPP will remain solid as a rock!” Rohee assured.

ELECTIONS HINT
Addressing the ongoing political gridlock in the National Assembly, the General-Secretary hinted at the possibility of elections.

“The Parliament is a forum for a struggle for political power,” Rohee said.

He made it clear that the people are tired of the ‘shenanigans’ of the combined Opposition.
Rohee referred to the challenges being encountered with regard to passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill, on which there is agreement, but the Opposition are withholding their support until several demands are met.

He said the people’s disgust would be best demonstrated at the polls.
“Guyanese have had enough of messing with their lives by their political predecessors,” Rohee opined.

According to him, the Opposition’s “game-plan” is clear for all to see, and it is one that would land Guyana into economic ruin.

He acknowledged that the PPP/C has made mistakes, but noted that the party is “bold and big” enough to admit to such errors, and work to make up for them. “The PPP/C remains the strongest political force in this country!” Rohee posited.

Rohee said that the best way to pay tribute to Dr. Cheddi Jagan is for all of his supporters to work “hard, ceaselessly and indefatigably” to retake the majority in the National Assembly.
“The struggle continues, but victory is inevitable,” he said.

Acting President Samuel Hinds echoed similar sentiments, and called for the Guyanese people to recommit to the ideals that were Dr. Jagan’s.

The desire for such a commitment was evident by personal encounters with longstanding fighters in the party and Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s two sisters, who were present for the memorial, as well as by emotive responses by some as they laid wreaths to pay homage to the fallen leader; and even by some of the attendees as they listened to the tributes being made.

Strikingly evident was consensus on the potential Dr. Jagan’s vision has to see Guyana advance, and have the Guyanese people truly participate in a New Global Human Order.
Written By Vanessa Narine