THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Saturday, staged its annual Route March Parade in Georgetown as part of activities marking its 187th anniversary, with Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, receiving the traditional “eyes right” salute while performing the functions of Minister of Home Affairs.
The parade passed in front of the Ministry of Home Affairs, where Dr Singh inspected the ranks and accepted the salute in the absence of substantive Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond.
Addressing the occasion on behalf of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Dr Singh congratulated the Guyana Police Force on its 187 years of service to the nation.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working alongside the Force to strengthen public safety and national security.
“The Government remains deeply committed to our shared vision with the Guyana Police Force of building a safer, stronger and more secure Guyana,” Dr Singh said.
The annual Route March Parade forms part of the Force’s anniversary observances, highlighting the discipline, professionalism and unity of the men and women who serve and protect the country.
The month-long celebrations commenced on July 1 with a Drum Head Church Service at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe at Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, which was attended by Dr Singh.
The Guyana Police Force was established on July 1, 1839, when it was known as the British Guiana Police Force during the country’s pre-independence period.
Activities planned throughout July include an Inter-Divisions Male and Female Domino Competition, a Fitness Walk, Rugby Games, a Welfare Day, the Fallen Heroes Wreath-Laying Ceremony, participation in the President’s National Clean-Up Initiative, Five-a-Side Inter-Regions Male and Female Football Competitions, the Commissioner of Police T20 Cricket Finals, an Awards Ceremony, a Night of Fights, a Road Relay, the Annual Swimming Championship and the Track and Field Championship.
The anniversary celebrations are intended to recognise the Force’s long-standing service while promoting camaraderie, fitness and professionalism among its ranks.
