Red House hosts expo in honour of late President Janet Jagan

The Cheddi Jagan Research Centre on Wednesday hosted an exhibition in honour of the late President Janet Jagan, to mark her 100th birth anniversary, which was observed on October 20.

Following COVID-19 protocols, persons gathered at Red House to reminisce on the life of one of Guyana’s heroes.
During the course of her struggle, Jagan managed, despite the odds, to set a number of records, including that of becoming the first female Executive President of Guyana. She was also the first female Prime Minister, the first female to hold office as Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, the first female to have won a seat as a Councillor of the Georgetown City Council, and the first among three women to be elected to the National Assembly following the PPP’s victory in the 1953 elections.
The expo was aimed at showcasing her life and the many ways in which she improved the lives of many Guyanese.
In an interview with Chairman of the Research Centre, Hydar Ally explained the importance of hosting this event.
“We had a photographic exhibition and reflections by comrades who would have worked with Mrs Jagan and some other persons as well…this is just a part of a larger part of group of activities to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Mrs. Jagan…” he said.
The Research Centre introduced a first day cover in honour of Mrs Jagan. This will be sold at the Research Centre.
According to the Chairman, there will be the launching of a book in honour of the late stalwart.
On Tuesday, there was the launching of four commemorative stamps which revealed moments in Mrs Jagan’s political life. They were made available to the public at all post offices from Wednesday.
Janet Jagan was born and bred in Chicago USA. She moved to Guyana after marrying Dr Cheddi Jagan, and, together with others, they formed the People’s Progressive Party.
After becoming President in 1997, Mrs Jagan was unable to stay in office in 1999 because of ill health. She died in 2009 at the age of 89.