Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken on Tuesday led a high-level team to Fort Island in the Essequibo River as preparations intensify for Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary flag-raising ceremony, a landmark event set to take place at the historic location.
The visit comes as Guyana prepares to mark its Diamond Jubilee under the theme “The Homecoming,” with national activities expected to culminate in a symbolic ceremony at the island, long regarded as a site of deep historical significance.
Accompanying the Commissioner were Deputy Commissioner of Police ‘Operations’ Errol Watts, Commander of Regional Police Division #3 Mahendra Siwnarine, Officer-in-Charge of the Tactical Services Unit Brian Lowenfield, and other senior officers. The team’s visit forms part of ongoing coordination efforts to ensure security and logistical readiness for the national observance.
Located approximately 16 kilometres from the mouth of the Essequibo River, Fort Island once served as the capital of the Dutch colonies of Essequibo and Demerara during the 18th century. The island is home to the historic Fort Zeelandia, constructed in 1744, and the Court of Policy Building, erected in 1752—both enduring symbols of Guyana’s colonial past.
Speaking during the visit, Commissioner Hicken said hosting the flag-raising ceremony at Fort Island carries “profound national meaning,” describing the site as a powerful representation of the country’s history, resilience, and sovereignty.
“As we prepare to celebrate Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee, Fort Island stands as a powerful symbol of our history, our resilience and our sovereignty. It is only fitting that such an important national ceremony be hosted in a place of such historic value,” he stated.
The Commissioner also emphasised the significance of staging the event in the Essequibo region, noting that it reaffirms the area’s integral place within Guyana.
The upcoming ceremony is expected to be one of the defining highlights of the country’s Independence celebrations, with authorities working to ensure that all arrangements are in place for a seamless and memorable national event.
