Unity and Patriotism ushers in 49th Republic in New Amsterdam
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, February 23, 2019
Patriotism and unity were on display as the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted on the lawns of State House in New Amsterdam Berbice last evening to commemorate Guyana’s 49th Republic Anniversary
In his remarks, featured speaker, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge said: “For us to rise we must rise as one or we shall fall…The victory that we are speaking of here is really our ability to overcome those things that divide us it is also our ability to organise ourselves, overcome divisions.”
Minister Greenidge told the gathering the single most important creed of our nation lies in the motto ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny.’
He noted that despite differences “We are all Guyanese and Guyana belongs to all and we must these differences aside to defend our territory; if not others will come in an reap the benefits that we deserve.”
He also explained the border situation with Venezuela and the status of the proceedings, noting that while the issue has been a long-standing one, the Coalition Government is optimistic that with the matter engaged in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) it will confirm the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 arbitral award settling the boundaries between British Guiana and Venezuela finally.
Minister Greenidge also extended greetings on behalf of his President David Granger and commended the organisers for a fantastic cultural programme and pledged to return to his hometown of New Amsterdam.
Earlier her Worship, Mayor of New Amsterdam, Winifred Heywood in her remarks highlighted the progress made since the Coalition Government took office. She pointed to the many infrastructural developments in the Town and those already in the pipeline such as more street lighting for the township much to the appreciation of the audience who responded with thunderous applause. She also pointed to the many new businesses being established.
Mayor Heywood noted that this year’s Mashramani theme “Celebrate 49 with Victory in Mind” is truly fitting especially for the town of New Amsterdam since due to the vision and commitment of the Government, they are on a path to ensuring victory for all Guyanese.
The proceedings got underway from around 20:00 hrs. with a full military parade by the Disciplined Forces taking to the streets from High Bridge to State House.
The cultural programme got off to a rousing start with a beautiful rendition of some of Guyana’s national songs by teacher Billy La Bennett. His performance had the entire audience singing along with him and set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Dramatic poetry, interpretive dances, drumming and steel pan had the audience waving the Golden Arrowhead and feeling proud to be Guyanese.
Story and Images: Nafeeza Sakur.