Region Two residents urged to uphold virtues at flag raising
DPI, GUYANA, Friday, February 23, 2018
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson called on Region Two, Pomeroon-Supenaam residents to uphold the virtues of morality, ethics, honesty and respect that will ensure Guyana remains a strong nation.
(From left) Regional Chairman, Devenand Ramdatt, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson and Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson enjoying the performances.
Minister Ferguson was at the time addressing the gathering at the region’s 48th Republic Anniversary flag raising ceremony at the Anna Regina car park. She noted that republicanism is held to be the highest form of democratic freedom any society can enjoy.
“Being a republic nation means the supreme power rests in all citizens entitled to vote, and is exercised by representatives elected directly or indirectly by them, and are responsible to them”, she stated.
The Minister explained the difference of what Guyana gained by becoming a Republic as opposed to remaining merely an independent nation.
She stated, “Independence commemorates the right to freedom from colonial rule and celebrates the birth of our nation, while Republic Day celebrates our achievements born out of our thirst for self-governance and the desire to determine our future and celebrates our adulthood, our coming of age.”
Minister Ferguson emphasised that Republic Day is a time when Guyanese should recognise and reflect on the historical foundations upon which the country was built and further develop these to ensure social and economic growth locally.
Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson, in brief remarks called for unity as this was crucial to taking the region forward.
The REO added that in Guyana there are no natural disasters but a lack of cooperation has created discord and hindered progress in the region.
“We must live in unity. We need to trust each other and live together, so we can move forward. Every project undertaken must receive the blessing of our Regional Chairman and people of the region. I see great things for this region but we must work together,” Hopkinson reiterated.
He stated that the region had a fruitful 2017 that saw all budgeted projects completed and the remaining funds utilised for unbudgeted ones.
Regional Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt whilst echoing Hopkinson’s call for cooperation, stressed that public funds being invested must positively transform the region. He said, “We must take responsibility to build stronger regions and by extension a stronger country. So, we must work towards accountability so that public funds will be used to transform the region.”
The Regional Chairman added it is pivotal that the financial resources allocated regionally, be used to enhance the region and services to the people.
The audience was entertained with dances, songs and poetry, all depicting and showcasing Guyana’s diversity and rich culture.
Dennis Singh shares a Chutney song.
Little Jaime Williams performing his winning piece in the children’s Calypso competition.
Members from the Swarswattie Dance Group performing their cultural piece.
Kenesha Allen performing a poem.
By: Ranetta La Fleur