Luncheon hosted in honour of Pres. Granger’s 74th birth anniversary
DPI, Guyana, Monday, July 15, 2019
Steel pan solos, cultural presentations and heartfelt greetings formed part of a special 74th birthday luncheon hosted, on Monday, for His Excellency, President David Granger at the Baridi Benab, State House.
Guests started arriving at noon and were greeted with the sweet melodies of Guyanese folk songs. Among those invited was Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo, Ministers of Government, senior government officials, specially invited guests, friends and family who all gathered to celebrate the Head of State’s special day.
As the programme, which was chaired by Minister of Public Health, Hon. Volda Lawrence got underway, guests were entertained with vibrant dances and musical renditions. It also saw Minister of Public Security, Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan and Director-General (DG) of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon leading the tributes.
The Minister of Public Security deemed His Excellency a “moral leader.”
“His every statement in Cabinet and in the Press or in an address to the nation comes forth so well and it is demonstrated by his actions,” Minister Ramjattan said.
DG Harmon reminded guests that it was through President Granger’s vision and leadership that the country is on the path to becoming a more cohesive and unified country.
“That was the quality of the man; he determined what we needed in Guyana was national unity and that national unity was a priority. So, it was no mistake that the Ministry of Social Cohesion was formed. Many people spoke of social cohesion, but he directed to give meaning and effect to it because he recognised that unity is important in this country.”
President Granger, in brief remarks, expressed his gratitude to those gathered for being able to celebrate another milestone in his life. He expressed appreciation to his wife, Her Excellency, Sandra Granger, the First Lady of Guyana, for the support she has shown him over the years, particularly in the last year as he underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. He also acknowledged his ministers.
“I would like to thank my Cabinet who have had to carry a major load over the last eight months. I am full of gratitude as I stand here before you this afternoon.”
President Granger reflected on his past four birthdays since assuming office and highlighted that it was on this day in 2015 that the Public Education Transportation System (PETS) better known as the 5Bs – buses, boats and bicycles programme commenced.
In keeping with the tradition of delivering quality education for all, the Head of State presented five top National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) performers with laptops for their outstanding achievements.