On this 77th anniversary of the Enmore Martyrs, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) solemnly commemorates the selfless sacrifice of the five slain sugar workers — Rambarran, Pooran, Lallabagee, Surajballi, and Harry.
In 1948, confronted with severe social and economic hardships, an oppressive “cut and load” cane harvesting system, and the denial of a representative union, the sugar workers were driven to protest.
Their just demands were met with brutality: riot police opened fire, killing five innocent workers. These martyrs laid down their lives in pursuit of dignity, justice, and a better future for all workers. Their sacrifice deeply moved Dr Cheddi Jagan, who at their funeral pledged to dedicate his life to freeing the Guyanese people from exploitation and oppression.
Despite imprisonment and relentless attempts to silence him, Dr Jagan’s determination never faltered. His vision and struggle led to the founding of the PPP in 1950 — a party committed to advancing the cause of the working people.
The legacy of the Enmore Martyrs and the lifelong struggle for justice led by Dr Cheddi Jagan continue to serve as guiding principles—particularly during challenging periods such as the mass dismissal of thousands of sugar workers under the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition Government, which plunged many families into economic hardship.
Today, the Enmore Martyrs remind us of the enduring importance of defending our democracy, our constitution, and our freedoms against any form of tyranny. The PPP remains steadfast in honouring their memory and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
