-Region Two Flag Raising Ceremony

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, on Sunday morning declared that “no external force will take what is rightfully ours”, affirming that the Essequibo region firmly belongs to Guyana.

Minister Parag made the powerful statement while delivering the keynote address at the Region Two Democratic Council’s 59th Independence Flag Raising Ceremony, held on the tarmac of the Anna Regina Car Park.

In her keynote address, Minister Parag emphasised unity among Guyanese, stating that “all persons are recognised as Guyanese despite race.”
Reflecting on her own childhood in Region Two, she reaffirmed that a large portion of Guyana is comprised of Essequibo.
Speaking to the border controversy with Venezuela, she said, “The Venezuelans want to take Essequibo, but there is no way—no external force will take what rightfully belongs to Guyana.”
Minister Parag expressed admiration for the resilience of Essequibians, noting that despite heavy rain during the ceremony, residents stood in solidarity.
“As I began speaking, the rain came down, but our people stood strong,” she said. She extended gratitude to the Joint Services, stating, “Guyana will stand behind the Joint Services as they protect our borders.”

“Today, we are gathered for our 59th anniversary. Guyanese fought and struggled to choose their own leaders and gain independence. Today, we will not allow anyone to take our 83,000 square miles from us,” Parag asserted.
She encouraged residents to raise their flags with pride, adding that the flag symbolises sovereignty.
She spoke proudly of the developments in Essequibo, reminiscing on her childhood and highlighting the modernisation of schools and improvement in infrastructure, which she attributed to “progress and perseverance.”

“Our Guyanese are resilient. We may look easy-going, but we are not easy when it comes to protecting our borders through lawful and legal means, and we will continue to do so with the support of our international community,” Parag declared.

She called on all Guyanese to unite in defence of the nation’s borders, firmly stating that “Essequibo belongs to Guyana”.
Referring to the Venezuelan claim, she stressed that “no elections were held in Essequibo” and thus any such elections are “unlawful.”
The Minister also highlighted several government initiatives, including the “Because We Care” cash grant, aimed at supporting parents and children in education.
She emphasised the Government’s commitment to improving livelihoods across the region.

“You in Essequibo are benefitting from everything and I can see the transformation—this is progress,” she said.
Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, also addressed the gathering, celebrating the tremendous transformation of Essequibo over the past 59 years.
She noted that progress was evident in every sector and credited the development to the collective efforts of all ethnic groups. De Silva praised President Irfaan Ali’s leadership, under which Region Two is undergoing a modern transformation.

She highlighted improvements in the road network, noting that what was once a region plagued by potholes now has better infrastructure.
In the education sector, she mentioned that “learning is now taking place within the comfort of students’ homes.”
In health, she reported major strides with health posts established in all communities and the commissioning of the Lima Hospital soon.
She also highlighted significant advances in agriculture and reaffirmed that Guyana is a multicultural nation with much to celebrate.

Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, welcomed attendees and affirmed that “Essequibo stands strong against any aggression” and that its people “will always stand tall.”
The programme featured a vibrant cultural display, including acrostic poetry, musical performances and dances by regional troupes.

The ceremony concluded with the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead. Minister Parag took the salute from members of the Joint Services, followed by a parade.
In attendance were Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit, Prime Minister’s Representative Arnold Adams, Regional Executive Officer, Susanah Saywack and Regional Commander Khemraj.