AS Guyana observed the 200th anniversary of the 1823 Demerara Revolt, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that Guyanese must honour the spirit of those who forged the path to freedom.

The Head of State was at the time speaking at a commemorative ceremony for the bicentennial anniversary of the 1823 revolt.

The history of this significant event, he said is part of Guyana’s history and part of all Guyanese.

“The history of a free and independent Guyana, the sacrifices of those who fell during the revolt contributed to our eventual liberation first from slavers and then from colonial rule,” President Ali said.

As he gave a recap of the events that led to the 1823 Revolt, he said that he wants young people of the country who often congregate at the monument located along Seawall Road to recognise the significance of the revolt.

Dr Ali indicated that the monument must not be misused and abused by the activities that take place around it as it stands as a memorial for those who gave their lives for freedom. For this reason, such the grounds should be considered hallowed, he added.

Against this backdrop, he indicated that as part of the observance, the indomitable spirit of those who dared to lift the forbidden banner of freedom must be saluted.

He noted that freedom should not be taken for granted and must be zealously guarded from enemies within and outside Guyana’s borders.

To this end, he stated that the protection and preservation of democracy must be a shield to safeguard the nation’s freedom.

“As we commemorate the bicentennial [anniversary] of one of the darkest and bloodiest events in our people’s quest for freedom, let us be resolute in ensuring that we strengthen our democracy and our nation’s development so that our people’s freedom can never in our lifetime or beyond, be ever again threatened,” the Head of State said.
He added that the legacy and sacrifice of those who passed can only be protected through the preservation of freedom, which can only occur through a unified approach.

Meanwhile, as several activities were launched as part of the observances, he said that these events might not only serve as a reminder of the revolt but also reignite the spirit of oneness.

Along with the list of activities set to take place over the next year, a commemorative stamp and coin was launched on Friday afternoon