GUYANA has undoubtedly experienced some worse years than the one we are saying goodbye to; but 2020 was certainly an annus horribilis.
Plato propagated the theory that one can change one’s character by turning one’s whole soul towards the light. The actions of some of Guyana’s politicians who are predisposed to fostering strife and sowing discord and disunity in this nation have resulted, over the years, in much discord among communities.
Many of these erstwhile leaders of our country have led their supporters into acts that are unpatriotic, do not correlate to nation-building, and are severely inimical to an ethos of peace and unity in this land we all call home.

The Guyanese nation is a unique tapestry of colours and cultures, each specific to traditional mores and customs, but blended into a harmonious whole of acculturation.
The cuisine of our land reflects our diversity: Chowmein, roti, dhal, pepperpot, curry, metemgee and countless others is a cook-up relished by all.
Our holidays are enjoyed by all: Diwali motorcades and light-up; zakat during Eid, where the bounties shared are enjoyed by everyone; Christmas and Easter, kite-flying and hospitable, joyous camaraderie between neighbours and communities.

As we welcome and usher in the New Year, 2021, we hope for a changed socio-political dynamic, where goodwill and a love for one’s fellow Guyanese will prevail to allow the government’s developmental plans to fructify to optimum.
The Irfaan Ali administration has promised to deliver, and/or facilitate higher standards of living, equity and justice, as well as massive economic development for all the Guyanese people, regardless of their ethnicity, religious beliefs, and political persuasions.
As we reflect on the significant challenges encountered in 2020, it is recognised, as an imperative, that we must recommit ourselves to doubling our efforts to overcome those known and unknown obstacles that lie ahead this year.

The new year must be seen as the year to achieve national healing and reconciliation, racial harmony, unity and cohesiveness.
We cannot afford to continue along a path characterised by political rifts and divisiveness.
The newly-installed government has promised to end the wastage of taxpayers’ funds on politically-tainted and piecemeal initiatives, which were being painted as part of a wider policy of achieving social cohesion.
It hoped that our National Assembly will ascend to a new level, defined by meaningful consultation, political cooperation and consensus, which will no doubt result in the creation of a new political culture.

His Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali has promised that his government will bring an end to executive lawlessness, the abuse of power, and breaches of the Constitution of Guyana.
PPP/C governments have a history of exercising political restraint, and respecting the democratic fabric of our society. The Government is intent on reducing the burdensome fiscal measures imposed on the nation by the previous administration, so that 2021 will engender the will in the national psyche to endeavour and achieve.
Additionally, the new administrative dispensation will see the Government respecting the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, human rights of all citizens, including its political opponents and time-honoured parliamentary traditions and norms.

The Year 2020 has been a challenging one, not only for Guyana but nations the world over, and is aptly described by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in his New Year’s message 2021.
He said thusly: “2020 has been a year of trials, tragedies and tears.
“COVID-19 upended our lives, and plunged the world into suffering and grief. So many loved ones have been lost, and the pandemic rages on, creating new waves of sickness and death.”
Amid the struggles, the UN Secretary-General also underscores the need for unity to ensure safer families, communities, countries and world.

“If we work together in unity and solidarity, these rays of hope can reach around the world. That’s the lesson of this most difficult year. Both climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic are crises that can only be addressed by everyone together, as part of a transition to an inclusive and sustainable future.
“Together, let’s make peace among ourselves and with nature, tackle the climate crisis, stop the spread of COVID-19, and make 2021 a year of healing: Healing from the impact of a deadly virus; healing broken economies and societies; healing divisions; and starting to heal the planet. That must be our New Year’s Resolution for 2021.”
The Board of Directors, management and staff of the Guyana National Newspaper Limited (GNNL) wish all Guyanese a Happy and Prosperous New Year.