-says this is key to moving Guyana forward

By: Indrawattie Natram

REGION Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, has expressed the firm belief that if Guyana is to accelerate, citizens must live in unison despite their various differences. She was, at the time, delivering the feature address at a flag-raising ceremony held to commemorate Guyana’s 51st Republic Day anniversary. The event was held in the compound of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) at Anna Regina.

Speaking to members of the disciplinary services, RDC councillors, heads of the various departments, and special invites, De Silva noted that in celebrating Guyana’s republican status, it is essential for the nation to reflect on where the country was before it became a republic. She added that although there is no grand celebration this year due to the presence of COVID-19 and the strict guidelines that are in place, Guyanese still have much to be appreciative of, including being a nation of six ethnicities.

“Guyana as a nation has been transformed in every sector over the years. We must, therefore, be thankful for many things, including the benefits we reaped today, which include freedom and diversity. We are reaping the benefits all because our fore-parents toiled hard for it,” De Silva expressed. She said that the present government has presented one of the largest budgets to aid in transforming the life of every citizen. Among the things Guyanese should be grateful for are the removal of VAT from certain items, the $15000 school grant for parents, the implementation of smart classrooms, and massive investments in the housing sector, she said.

Additionally, De Silva said the theme for this year’s celebration is unique as it speaks particularly about unity and diversity. She later expressed confidence that the Pomeroon-Supenaam region will continue to blossom under the current government.

The chairperson used the occasion to remind residents that the lives of over 800 families will soon be transformed as a result of a recently announced Ministry of Housing and Water initiative. She added that these families will receive house lots, which will enable them to live a better life.

Meanwhile, the gathering was treated to a rich cultural programme that included calypso, poems, and patriotic dances and songs. Dances were done by the Swarswattie Dance Academy, Mainstay, and the Khandya Dance Group.

The hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead and a march past parade done by members of the disciplinary forces followed the cultural programme. Regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Oodit; Region Two Regional Commander, Crystal Robinson, and Head of the Anna Regina Fire Station, Suresh Persaud were also in attendance.