INTENDED to be a calculated reminder of one’s age, birthdays are not often observed with the intent of making the years count. And if there is one person who has been investing time in ensuring his years count, it is President David Granger, who has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the ‘good life’ is provided for all Guyanese.The Head of State’s remarks were made at a special breakfast organised by the People’s National Congress (PNC) on Friday to observe the 71st birth anniversary of the country’s leader.
Held at Congress Place in Sophia, on the eastern outskirts of Georgetown, the event was well attended by party members and supporters, who seized the opportunity to extend well wishes to President Granger.

In what can be termed a selfless act, the President shaped his speech to emphasize that the birthday celebrations only serve to renew his drive and determination to provide a high quality of life for all Guyanese.

Expressing how much of a “moving moment” the occasion was for him as Head of State, President Granger said he believes he has a team that is capable of transforming the land of many waters to support his vision for a ‘good life’ for all Guyanese, and ensure there is no recurrence of what transpired over the last 23 years.

To this end, he extended appreciation to his colleagues and the people of Guyana, as he recommitted to providing the country with the leadership that the people need and deserve. He was quick to point out that his prayer continues to be for Guyana to continue to prosper under good leadership.

“It is about the future; that is what this 71st birthday is all about. I plan and I think about the future,” the Head of State said.
“Today, my 71st birthday, I obviously feel some sense of nostalgia; but, more than that, I feel a sense of confidence that people are with me; that people understand where I want to go, where I want Guyana to go; people understand the type of country I want our children and grandchildren to inherit; and that we will all do this together,” the President declared.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, who gave brief remarks at the event, pointed out that the President has the essential qualities of a politician and a leader.

Williams said that on occasions such as these, the only drawback is that those observing their birthdays do not like to remember their age. However, he noted that President Granger has no problem with that, because he is excelling beyond all imagination, regardless of age.

“[He has the] essential qualities of a politician. You cannot be a politician if you are not prepared to serve the people of Guyana, and we have to keep that focus,” the AG said. He added that Guyana is proud to have a President who is committed to service and development of citizens.

Also offering remarks was Councillor for the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of the Mahaica Berbice (Region Five) area, Carol Smith-Joseph.
Speaking on behalf of the Women’s Arm of the PNC, Joseph expressed her belief that Guyana has seen a change, not only in governance, but in the care and commitment shown to Guyanese under the stewardship of President Granger.

“As Guyana embraces this new transitory phase of renewed governance and development, moving from a country that seemed to have lost its way to one well entrenched on the path of economic, social and moral recovery, let us all recognise and applaud the huge presence and impact of God’s special servant,” she admonished.

“This is a birthday with a difference. It is premised on love, goodwill and hope for all aspiring Guyanese here and in the diaspora,” Joseph said.

Apart from routine speeches, the celebrations were marked by the traditional cutting of a birthday cake, which the President shared with his wife, First Lady Sandra Granger. Melodious renditions of ‘Happy Birthday’ were sung to him, and wishes for a prosperous future were extended.