PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali called on citizens to rise together in unity, faith and dignity as Guyana reflects on its 60-year journey since independence.
The Head of State made the call while delivering an address at a Sunrise Glorification Service in observance of Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary, during which he said the occasion is one of gratitude and reflection.
President Ali noted that national progress must be anchored in shared values and collective responsibility, while adding that Guyana must recognise that its journey continues and that development is not defined by wealth alone.

He emphasised that Guyana is entering a new phase of national development shaped by rapid economic growth but warned that prosperity must be matched with fairness and inclusion.
“A nation can become richer without becoming fairer.”
He urged Guyanese to embrace unity across race, religion and class, saying that compassion and respect remain central to national cohesion.
With this, the President also highlighted the importance of interfaith unity, noting that Christianity, Islam and Hinduism all share common teachings on compassion, discipline and service to others.
He said these shared values are essential to Guyana’s continued development as a diverse and multi-ethnic society.
“Yesterday has ended. It is a new day,” he remarked.
President Ali said Guyana’s history shows a nation that has moved through colonialism, independence and nation-building, and is now entering a period of transformation driven by opportunity and responsibility.
He went on to add that the challenge for Guyana is to ensure that economic growth translates into meaningful improvements in the lives of all citizens.
As such, he said national maturity will be defined by how well the country manages its resources and ensures equitable development across all regions.
“We can, we will, and we are doing.”
He added that Guyana’s development must ultimately be measured not only by infrastructure or income levels, but by dignity, justice and human well-being.
President Ali said Guyana’s future depends on its ability to remain united and focused on shared national purpose.
Against this backdrop, Dr Ali expressed confidence that the country can continue advancing as a peaceful and prosperous nation if citizens work together across differences.
He said Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations are an opportunity to reflect on progress and recommit to national unity, adding that the nation must focus on ensuring that development benefits every citizen.
He said the country must continue to evolve beyond economic ambition towards a more just and inclusive society.
President Ali further noted that Guyana stands at a defining moment in its development, where choices made today will determine the quality of life for future generations. As such, he stressed that national progress must be inclusive as Guyana continues to expand economically and socially.
He indicated that faith, responsibility and unity must guide decision-making at every level of society, from government to communities and families. He added that the strength of the nation lies in its people and their willingness to work together in peace and mutual respect.