Over the past week and come next week, the nation has been and is in preparatory mode for the highly anticipated 54th Republic Anniversary, which was celebrated on February 23. As is customary, many events are being staged across the country, in every region. It is laudable to see that the finals various competitions – Chutney, Soca (senior and junior), Calypso (senior and junior) and dancehall monarch competition has been fanned out across the country reaching as far as Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) as we showcase the gamut of local talent. The country was abuzz with activity and revelry. In addition to these activities, it is also a tradition for the museums, schools and libraries to host lectures and exhibitions with the aim of evoking a sense of patriotism and understanding of the Republic celebrations. Indeed, it should be a time of reflection; Guyana attained republican status on February 23, 1970, some 54 years ago. The annual hoisting of the flag at midnight traditionally attracts thousands of Guyanese, who gather from near and far to bask in the glow of our national patrimony.
Prior to the attainment of republican status, the country attained independence from Great Britain on May 26, 1966. These are significant milestones in the life of this country. More importantly, it provided us as a nation with an opportunity to reflect on the path we have traversed over these years as well as the pains and tribulations we experienced in the past. While the challenges are still formidable today, citizens should be reminded not to lose sight of the patriotism and resilience that brought us this far as a nation. All of our leaders should also be reminded that it is their responsibility to foster a society in which there is peace, progress, prosperity and a sense of patriotism.
We will witness the coming together of our people over the next few days; thousands anticipated to participate in the annual Mashramani Float parade, thousands gather as the Golden Arrowhead is hoisted, commemorating yet another milestone in Guyana’s history. While the older generation of Guyanese will undoubtedly be reflecting on the journey and struggles that lead to this point; we should pause to consider what the younger folks are thinking. Is there a feeling of deep patriotism or national loyalty? Is there reflections on the struggles of our fore parents? More importantly, does the republic anniversary celebration ignite within them the deep-seated sense of national pride?
Over the coming years, Guyanese at home and abroad will experience massive infrastructural and economic development in Guyana as a result of the oil and gas sector. Government has accelerated the process of development and capacity building to prepare for this economic reality. However, in the midst of preparations and the grand plans, the border controversy with Venezuela has gained new life.
Guyanese anticipates that Guyana’s successful defense of its territorial integrity will not only boost local development but investors’ confidence in Guyana. The period ahead, therefore, will require maturity. Through it all the citizens of Guyana will also be called upon to hold firm to their patriotism and to be steadfast in their support for our sovereignty. While there will undoubtedly be many more instances in the future for the citizenry to band together, Guyanese from all walks will next Friday be gathered for the Republic Anniversary with a reminder of the need for a revival of the patriotism that lies within all of us.
