–President Ali says in vibrant ‘Independence’ address
–points to ongoing efforts to ensure all Guyanese are included in nation’s progress
–highlights specific initiatives being rolled out to enhance the lives of Linden residents

By Feona Morrison

IN a stirring ‘Independence’ address, President Dr. Irfaan Ali reassured citizens that Guyana is a nation where dreams and aspirations are nurtured and realised.
In honour of Guyana’s 58th Independence anniversary, the Guyanese leader addressed hundreds gathered for the annual flag raising ceremony, which was held this year at the Mackenzie Stadium, Linden, Region 10.
Before beginning his address, President Ali paid tribute to two devoted teachers who tragically perished in a recent accident on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, as well as to the patriotic men and women who have distinguished themselves through their service and sacrifices for the nation.

President Ali emphasised the value of patriotism, solidarity, and perseverance in a speech that struck a strong harmony with the crowd. As he considered the hardships and successes of the past, he urged Guyanese to band together to create a better future for everyone.

The Guyanese leader assured the people of Linden and the larger Guyanese community of his government’s dedication to inclusive development by highlighting continuous efforts to enhance infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, tourism and economic prospects.

He said: “Our vision is one that seeks to ensure that we can build a society that is not only free and just, but a society in which the aspirations of every Guyanese can be realised; a society in which we truly become our brothers and sisters keepers…”

He said Guyana will be a society that abides by the rule of law, cherishes its cultural heritage, lifts each other up in unity, and makes continuous sacrifices to ensure that the next generation lives a more prosperous life.
According to him, his government is dedicated to building a resilient, strong, sustainable, and competitive Guyana. This vision, he emphasised, includes providing citizens with, among other things, the highest quality of education, healthcare, infrastructure, recreational facilities, and an economy managed by prudent and sound financial policies.

Along with this, he delved into the accomplishments of the past three years by the government, such as the building of housing units and the allocation of over 30,000 house lots.
Referencing statistics from the Health Ministry, President Ali said there have been significant improvements in the overall health of the population, highlighting an increase in life expectancy and a drastic reduction in both child and maternal mortality rates.

He said that this demonstrates his administration’s dedication to advancing healthcare services in order to maintain and build on these positive trends.
“Your country is delivering to you. Your country is keeping your dreams and aspirations alive. Your country is creating for all of us, every single Guyanese, an opportunity of a lifetime; an opportunity that the generations before us dreamt of,” he said.

According to him, this independent and free Guyana possesses the greatest potential, and all the necessary resources to position the country at the centre of global development.
The President also reminded of the ambitious development plans for Linden, promising significant investments aimed at transforming the town’s economic landscape and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
“We understand and believe in the potential of Region 10,” he asserted.

The President outlined several critical areas for development, such as agriculture, upgrades to the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, construction of roads connecting Linden with surrounding regions, improvements to the town’s hospital, and the upgrade and construction of sports facilities.
He also discussed investments in the bauxite industry and tourism sector.

Emphasising that citizens in hinterland and riverain communities will not be overlooked, he declared, “Development must be equitable, regardless of where you are.”
The crowd reacted positively to the President’s announcements.
He said: “All us are equal. None of us is superior to the other and all of us must be inheritors of the future…”
To a burst of applause, Dr Ali concluded, “I thank you and God bless you.”

The event concluded with a spectacular fireworks display.
Top Guyanese performers participated in a series of cultural acts at the flag raising event, which was chaired by Michella Abraham-Ali, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Communications Network (NCN). Members of the Cabinet, Chiefs of the Joint Services, and representatives of the diplomatic corps, were among those in attendance.