51st Independence anniversary ushered in with spectacular flag raising ceremony

Thousands of Guyanese on Thursday night gathered at the D’Urban Park on Homestretch Avenue, to observe the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, as Guyana celebrates 51 years as an Independent nation.

It was a display of national unity as Guyanese from all walks of life congregated to witness the packed cultural presentation before the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead. Some screamed in excitement while some danced as they proudly waved the Golden Arrowhead and others just stood in amusement.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Head of State David Granger and First Lady Sandra Granger along with the Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita Nagamootoo.

Members of the Opposition were notably absent, having boycotted the event.

Meanwhile, there was an explosion of cultural performances ranging from dances, to poems and songs.

After the cultural presentations, ranks from the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force in their pristine ceremonial uniforms, marched in formation to the loud applause of the crowd.

This was immediately followed by the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead on the approximately 200 feet pole in the centre of the Jubilee Park. As the flag was hoisted there was the ceremonial beating of the drums and the National Anthem echoing in the background.

The massive flag, which is 50ft x 30ft, started to unfold and swayed proudly with the heavy wind. Following the hoisting, fireworks lit the sky for about 10 minutes while the crowd cheered lustily.