–President Ali says, as Brooklyn pastors pledge support for ‘One Guyana’ initiative

WITH the Government of Guyana crafting a plan to unite the people of this nation, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that churches have a role to play in fostering “unity and tolerance.”

Speaking with Guyanese pastors residing in Brooklyn, President Ali said that his government’s plan is to unite all of Guyana under an umbrella of development and harmony.

The President told the overseas-based Guyanese about the importance of their role in fostering unity and tolerance, as he elaborated on his campaign for the advancement of the One Guyana agenda.

Noting his government’s commitment to bringing all of Guyana together, the President said: “Our development programme is never tailored for any one ethnic group.”

He then called on churches to help in sustaining a dialogue based on the foundation of truth and building on institutional arrangements where religious leaders unite and bring people together.

He also spoke about his government’s commitment to inclusivity at all levels. The President added that the government is open to critique and that there will be a conference organised with the objective of hearing reports and fielding questions on its agenda.

PLEDGED SUPPORT
The meeting stimulated discussions on a number of matters relating to the unification of Guyana, collaborations and open dialogue.
The congregation of pastors welcomed the opportunity to speak directly with the Head of State and expressed their willingness to play their part in the promotion of national unity.

They also used the opportunity to pledge their support to the government and stated their interest in fairness, equal rights and the distribution of wealth to Guyanese.

Meanwhile, Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, in supporting the President’s drive, noted the importance of promoting unity and securing democracy.