—President Jagdeo at State House Family Fun Day
HUNDREDS from all walks of life came together last evening to join in ‘Remembering the Jagans’ at the annual State House Family Fun Day on the lawns of State House, Main Street. Addressing the gathering of supporters and well-wishers, President Bharrat Jagdeo extended a warm welcome and thanked the crowd for attending the commemorative event.
He said, “I want to welcome you all to State House and to thank you for once again showing up here to allow us to remember the life of two wonderful people, two persons who made a significant impression in our history.”
President Jagdeo noted that Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Mrs. Janet Jagan will always be remembered for their contributions towards bettering the lives of all Guyanese.
He called on those present to remember the historic struggle of the Jagans, which began from the days of colonial oppression, when they fought for the dignity and rights of all Guyanese.
The role which the former President and PPP founder played in Guyana’s development from independence to the return to democracy was described by President Jagdeo as unmatched and unique.
Jagdeo called on the crowd to appreciate the results of the intense struggles waged decades ago on their behalf.
“Most of us did not have the right to vote; it was only until 1953 that people enjoyed this right and this was largely because of the struggle of Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan.”
Continuing, President Jagdeo explained that the right to vote is not simply an abstract right, but rather the right to choose someone to govern the country and it is a right that we have to take seriously.
“We feel that our party, led by Cheddi Jagan, following all of his principles, is the party which we would like to see continue to lead our country because we are focused on trying to create a better life for every Guyanese,” Jagdeo said.
The Head of State encouraged all to lend their support as “we rise to challenges as a nation and overcome them”.
Those in attendance were treated to numerous activities to choose from to make the day full of fun. These included face paintings, photo taking, tattooing and the main highlight, live performances from the Shakti String bands and talented chutney dancers from some of the popular performing groups in Guyana.
Dr. Cheddi Jagan born on March 22, 1918 was the founder of the People’s Progressive Party and was elected President of Guyana on October 5, 1992.
He has been recognised as one of the great thinkers of his generation. Dr. Jagan died March 6, 1997.