Head of State urges national unity in face of storm of global uncertainty

…“We must cherish our similarities and differences” – PM
…as both Govt, Opposition extend Republic Day greetings

In a message urging national unity as the only way to face the storm of global uncertainty, President Dr Irfaan Ali has struck a conciliatory tone as he addressed the nation in observance of the 53rd Republic Day Anniversary.
During his Republic Day Address, the President spoke about global predictabilities such as economic conditions and climate insecurities. He questioned how the nation would face the next storm, and noted the importance of unity, whatever may come.

“In the unpredictability of the weather and changing climatic conditions, the world seems an unsettled place. What will be the next storm? How are we preparing for that storm? And how do all of us survive? It cannot be in isolation of each other. It cannot be in self-defense. Rather, it must be through a collective effort,” President Ali has said.
“A collective defense and a collective chain of action that strengthens itself with the intensity of the storm and locks itself into the chain of each link. Whether it is the storm of food insecurity, the storm of climate insecurity, it is our collective effort as a nation, as a people, as a society and as a family that will ensure we’re all protected safe and we all succeed.”
The President also made it clear that he would stand as the leader of this defense system as Guyanese face these “dark days and dark clouds”. According to the President, Guyanese must confront all threats to nationhood, and put “country above self.”
“I pledge to be at the head of the storm’s defense system and to be that leading link that embraces every other links, that forms itself into the Guyanese family to secure our future, safeguard our land, and preserve the beauty of a unified people and uplift the aspirations of a hopeful people.
“My hands remain open to friendship. My hands remain open to vulnerable, to lead the weak and guide the strong; to embrace all of us. It remains outstretched to the proposition of unity and hope, and to the dedication of country above self,” the President said.

Prime Minister
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, in his Republic Day Message, spoke of the importance of reflecting on Guyana’s achievements. He, too, stressed the importance of “unity, diversity and inclusion.”
According to Phillips, these are all critical factors in the vision of building a healthy and prosperous nation. Hence the 2023 theme for Mashramani, “Mixing and Mashing as One Guyana.”

“As home to a diverse array of cultures, ethnicities and religions, Guyana’s dynamic makeup allows us to learn from, and respect, each other’s backgrounds, beliefs, and values. This diversity also means that we must work to create a society where everyone feels included and respected, regardless of their differences.
“As we partake in the celebrations today, we must cherish our similarities and differences, as they have all contributed to our journey as a nation. Let us also continue to seek ways to foster tolerance and inclusion in all aspects of our lives, from education to the workplace, to the community at large,” the Prime Minister has said.
According to the Prime Minister, a good start would be everyone learning about other communities and cultures. Another good start would be listening to other stories and trying to understand the perspectives of others.
“Let us create an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed, where everyone’s voice is heard and valued, and where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Our Government is committed to promoting the concept of “One Guyana”, while also ensuring we exhibit good governance for all.
“We are dedicated to creating a robust economy through a society built on transparency and accountability, greater inclusivity. So, I urge all Guyanese to “Mix and Mash” together today, while remembering the symbolic purpose of our actions,” Phillips also said.

Opposition
The People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), in association with other Opposition parties, also released a statement. In theirs, the party was optimistic that Guyana can forge a unified nation and make Guyana “one of the best countries to live in.”
“Our Party and Coalition remain committed to the aspirations of those who fought for freedom and independence over the centuries with great courage and sacrifice. We remain committed to realizing the aspirations enshrined in our Constitution on the political, social, and economic wellbeing of all Guyanese. We remain committed to ensuring Guyanese from all walks of life can enjoy a high living standard and a high quality of life.” (G3)