Guyana Chronicle E-Paper Mash 2023 Supplement 23-02-2023

Mashramani celebrations for the children.

“COVID brought really harsh consequences, one of which was the shutdown of not only academic activities as we know it in the classroom, but also the extracurricular things that make children rounded beings, including the ‘Mash’ competitions across the regions,” the Education Minister said.

She noted that next year, the ministry hopes to take the celebrations to another region, so that other children can get to have the amazing experience of Children’s Mash.

Manickchand said that it is a good lesson in various Social-Studies topics and practical lessons about the way Guyana became a Republic, when Guyana became a Republic, and how Guyana can achieve and promote unity and diversity of ethnicity along with culture.

By Cassandra Khan

Bigger and Better ‘Children’s Mash’ returns

The children’s floats and costumes demonstrated how sport, music, and other activities tie into education, according to Minister Manickchand.

THOUSANDS of Guyanese ‘descended’ on the Everest Cricket Ground on Saturday to savour the grand return of the Children’s Mashramani Costume and Float Parade after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Decked out in their colourful and creatively put together costumes, children from across all education districts of Guyana proudly represented their schools as they made their way northeast to the Cricket Ground on Carifesta Avenue, all the way from the Parade Ground in downtown Georgetown.

The Ministry of Education, when launching this year’s Mashramani Band under the theme, “Wheels of Progress –Creating and Promoting Diversity and Inclusion for all”, did

not exaggerate when it declared that the event was going to be bigger and better.

While thousands flooded the event’s location, not many had the privilege of finding a seat. Parents, performers, and other citizens were so dedicated to having the full experience of this year’s return of the celebrations, that they even stood in the rain to watch the performances by the children.

In total, there were 38 ‘Mash’ bands from the various schools, all of which did an excellent job in representing their theme.

The children managed to impress the crowd with every performance, as cheers were louder than the music at times.

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand said she was glad they were able to resume

The Sunday Chronicle spoke to a few persons who came out to support the children participating in the celebrations.

Renee Small brought her 11-month-old daughter to experience the event for the first time. Renee said she was impressed by the turnout and the children who performed.

A teacher from Bel Air Primary in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Alexa (only name given), said that she was excited to see everyone’s costumes, floats, and performances.

Alexa noted that it was the first time she has seen such a huge turnout.

“It has been a long time, and it is very good. This is really exciting; I cannot wait for the big-people Mash. It will be more exciting, and I just hope to have fun. And I hope everyone else has fun too,” Alexa said.

The children in action at the Everest Cricket Ground (Adrian Narine photo)

Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Hinterland Scholarship Division’s float, under the theme ‘Showcasing One Guyana through Art and Culture (Adrian Narine photo)

IT has been three years since Guyana held its last Mashramani parade due to the advent of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

While many virtual programmes were held over the period plagued by the pandemic, this year, the parade is anticipated to make a grand comeback with revellers and entertainers alike in high spirits.

During a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Director of Hits and Jams, Kerwin Bollers, shared his excitement for the return of Guyana’s biggest fete and family fan-fare.

“...being able to be free, to get back outside and live life as normal. I really think that COVID would have reminded us of how great it feels to be able to be out there around your peers, family and stuff like that,” he said.

Bollers related that since the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, many festivities and events have been held, with a high turnout of patrons being recorded on each occasion.

The same, he said, is expected for the return of the “mash” festivities.

“We look forward to planning the remainder of this year and next year and introducing new concepts,” Bollers said.

However, the return to normalcy was not without its challenges. During the period of restrictions, the entertainment industry was adversely affected and saw many referring to new methods in order to satisfy the need for both entertainment and comfort during troubling times.

In many cases, Bollers said entertainers made use of the various online platforms that were available to them; however, those platforms were not created with the intent of hosting party-like events.

“For instance, the Zoom platform was never really a party platform. It was a business platform for persons to conduct meetings from different locations and promoters found a way to use that

As Guyana returns to some normalcy after three years of battling the COVID-19 pandemic, patrons and entertainers alike were able to bask in the festivities that were held leading up to the grand ‘Mash’ road parade. In this photo captured by DPI, Guyanese singer and songwriter, Calvin Burnette, treats a crowd of patrons to an ecstatic performance

Guyana’s entertainment industry sees consistent recovery from pandemic

--with Mashramani festivities, other events returning

platform for engaging in parties,” he said.

Bollers said that they not only had to find ways for persons to view content, but to also keep persons engaged.

“Providing content for an audience that you are really not seeing in front of you was a very difficult thing for us to do,” he said.

And while he is excited for the return of many festivities, he believes the industry has not yet made a full recovery.

“I think that we still have not gotten back to full normalcy as it relates to events because a lot of people are still not financially where they want to be,” he said.

By Cassandra Khan

Bollers added: “Even though a lot of events are happening worldwide, I don’t think that we could say that we are 100 per cent back to capacity because of the fact that persons are still recovering, but I believe, in the very near future, we would be able to get back to full normalcy.”

The pandemic, however, remains a life lesson to appreciate the simpler things. Personally, the promoter said he cultivated a great appreciation for freedom.

Director of Hits and Jams, Kerwin Bollers

A significant,ecstatic tradition and celebration

Mashramani

GUYANESE of all creed and ethnicity once gathered at Arvida Avenue (later renamed Republic Avenue) with some journeying on foot, by boat and bus.

The air was pristine as the sound of steel pan and good ‘ole’ soca music permeated through a crowd of revellers dressed in flamboyant costumes. It was Guyana’s first Mashramani parade, the year was 1970 and the mining town of Linden was the place to be.

Fifty-three years later, Mashramani is still revered as one of the most colourful, electrifying, entertaining, and unifying festivals of the year.

On this much-anticipated day, the streets of Georgetown are filled with a kaleidoscope of colours and revellers gyrating to the sounds of

soca music.

Not only is there eating, drinking and lots of dancing, but also a burst of talent, as the festival allows designers, makeup artists, dancers, choreographers, masqueraders, calypsonians, chutney artistes and soca artistes to showcase their skills.

Local vendors would also take the opportunity to cash in on the demands of thirsty, hungry and sometimes tired “feters.”

Mashramani is still Guyana’s greatest national party and street picnic. It is not only an event for revelry, but one that brings together friends and families.

The carnival-like festival has truly become a national event that breathes life into the country, and Guyanese at home and abroad look forward to participating in its celebrations.

Where it all began- scenes from the very first ‘Mashramani’ held in Linden 1966, along Arvida Road now known as Republic Avenue

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

This year, after a battle with COVID-19, the festival will make a glorious return and is anticipated to be the largest celebration Guyana has ever seen.

With the feeling of nostalgia, the streets of Georgetown will once again come alive as revellers, masqueraders and patrons alike will finally be able to ‘Mash’.

Mashramani is an Amerindian word which means “celebration after cooperative work.” In 1966, when Guyana became an independent nation, the first-ever Mashramani celebration was held in the mining town of Linden and was dubbed the Independence Carnival.

However, in 1970, when Guyana became a republic, a newly formed committee later changed the name to Mashramani.

The unique name-change only added to the excitement for residents as the first ‘Mash’ on February 23, 1970 is said to have pulled one of the largest crowds in Linden. The event saw thousands

Not only Guyanese, but foreigners fully enjoyed the spirit of mash in 1992

Mash...

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4A

Flashback: In the year 1992, this reveller stole the show and won the hearts of spectators by winning one of the many costume competitions held that year (All photos sourced from the Guyana Chronicle Archives)

of outsiders swarming the mining town to have a taste of the experience.

However, after realising how much attraction Mashramani was getting, a government official had several discussions with the Jaycees Republican Committee, the committee which was formed

to organise ‘Mash’ in Linden, to take the event to the capital city – Georgetown.

Approval was then granted for Mashramani to be a national event for the republic celebration. The approval saw ‘Mash’ activities rotated among Linden, Berbice and Georgetown.

Where it all began- scenes from the very first ‘Mashramani’ held in Linden 1966, along Arvida Road now known as Republic Avenue

By Trina Williams

parades a wholesome

‘Mash’Experience

IS it really Mashramani without Adrian Dutchin’s “I am a Guyanese” or Vanilla’s “592” being blasted on the streets and radios?

Or can one call it “Mash” without masquerades performing in the streets and upholding the longstanding tradition?

Quite frankly, it is not Mashramani without a road parade. While there is a host of events that are held during the ‘mash’ season, the parades are truly the highlights of the festivities.

Making room for all, a number of parades are usually hosted, but the two major ones that gather the most crowds are the children’s and ‘big people’ parade that are held consecutively in Georgetown.

This year both are returning after being on hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The children’s parade was held last Saturday and although one might say the journey from Parade ground

to Everest ground is quite a distance, both children and teachers were full of energy from start to end.

Even in the sun, thousands stood in anticipation waiting to see the children in their bright costumes and the colourful floats on display.

With vendors pushing their snowcone carts and selling water to quench the thirst of spectators and revellers, it finally felt like a Guyanese “Mash.”

Owing to this, the Guyana Chronicle took to the streets to speak to the people on “children’s mash” and how they felt about the grand return.

Hailing from Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, Charmaine Scholl, who came with her daughter and niece, said that the “Children’s Mash” was long overdue.

“There’s a lot of things that were missed because of COVID and ‘Mash’ is definitely one of them,” she said.

Scholl added: “Before these kids (her niece and daughter) asked me to attend this year’s “Children’s Mash,” I already had intentions of taking them because after being at home for so long, they deserve a good outing.”

Ms. Scholl said that she was enjoying how peaceful but yet lively and coordinated things were at the event.

Speaking with Ms. Scholl’s 11-year-old daughter, Tamia Abrams, who was “over the moon” about the festivity, the Guyana Chronicle got an insight as to how the little girl was taking in the atmosphere.

“I feel really excited to see the colourful costumes

and floats” the little girl said.

“I can’t wait to come again next year” Tamia added as she affirmed how thrilled she was about attending the parade with her ‘mom’ and cousin.

Alicia Williams from Hadfield Street, Georgetown came with her three children to admire the beauties parading the streets.

Ms. Williams continued, saying that her kids were happy to see the parade because they did not do anything because they were so worried about the pandemic.

Even though the kids did not take off as yet, just by a glance, Ms. Williams labelled them as “nice and colourful.”

Elwin Souvenir, who came all the way from Canal No. 1, with his daughter, Catherine, told the Guyana Chronicle that he was “feeling quite excited for the young ones to come out and get a little taste of it, especially for the ones that seeing the “Mash” for the first time.”

Calling it a “great experience,” Mr. Souvenir further expressed that this outing was just one of the early celebrations he had in store for little Catherine, as her birthday was the following day.

Meanwhile, Audrey Daniels, who was seen cheering on the kids and even the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand as she passed by, was not only energizing herself but also the people around her.

She said: “I am so happy for the children after two years of them not having any “Mash” so I am very, very much happy and I will enjoy.”

Alicia Williams and her kids

Elwin Souvenir and his daughter

Tamia Abrams

By Naomi Parris

Culture Attracts Tourism

--the return of festivities a boost to the industry

BOASTING a rich cultural diversity, Guyana has, over the years, established the title as an ideal tourist destination.

To date, part of its major attraction focuses on a number of festivities that not only generate an appreciation for culture but also contribute to the country’s economy.

During these festivities small and large enterprises as well as informal vendors are able to cash in.

One such festivity is Mashramani, an event which sees a burst of cultural extravaganza that encapsulates music, dance, fashion, pageantry and all forms of the creative arts. But, for the past three years, Mashramani was without physical celebrations uncelebrated because of the dreaded novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

With the scourge practically behind us, the festival is returning this year and Guyanese will not only see the return of the country’s biggest ‘fete,’ but a boost to the economy as the event marks the return of normalcy after years of being “inside.”

Shedding light on this, the Guyana Tourism Authority’s (GTA) Director, Kamrul Baksh, during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, said there is a high influx of tourists and visitors for the return of Mashramani and other festivities slated for the remainder of the year.

“This year, the GTA expects a much more significant

increase in visitor arrivals for the festive season, starting with Mashramani, Phagwah, Rodeo, Easter, Regatta, Emancipation, Indigenous Heritage, Diwali and Cricket Carnival are just some of the special events that are being actively promoted,” Baksh said.

According to Baksh, it is during the season of festivities

the country usually records its highest percentage of tourists.

“Over the years, the Guyana Tourism Authority has recorded a steady increase during these festive seasons or months,” he related.

Referencing the recently held Cricket Carnival back in September 2022, Baskh said that the

tourism product had an immense impact on the arrivals to Guyana, with September recording the highest visitor arrivals in the country’s history for that month.

“Festivities and events play a significant role in the travel and tourism sector for several reasons. Of those reasons, attracting tourists to a destination takes precedence. Guyana is positioned as a premier events destination, capitalising on unique and amazing events throughout the calendar year,” Baksh said.

The promotion and advancement of culture, he added, help to protect local cultural traditions and to promote Guyana through economic, social, and cultural

development.

This, Baksh said, has been consistently evident during Mashramani and other festive periods.

“This highlights the importance of creating tourism products and experiences that will attract an increasing number of travellers to Guyana. The Cricket Carnival product has demonstrated the impact within a single year. The following years will have even more ripple effects and spin off benefits,” the GTA Director related.

Further, he noted that expositions have also catapulted Guyana to new heights by increasing tourism not only from

the business and international communities, but also within the domestic market.

“The International Energy Conference, Agri Investment Forum & Expo, Building Expo, regional business expos have created major travel opportunities in historically slower periods.

“We welcome travellers to experience Guyana’s unique culture, people, and heritage in all aspects,” Baksh said.

Meanwhile, he related that the tourism sector is expected to make a full recovery and has already exceeded global expectations.

“We have attracted a lot of attention because we have a world-class product; our recovery is strong at 83 per cent, far exceeding the global average of 65 per cent,” Baksh said.

To further advance the sector, much focus will be placed on upgrading standards in the industry, improving digital marketing, increasing influencer marketing, as well as raising the service levels, he related.

For the year 2022, Guyana recorded a massive increase in travel to three of the country’s main ports of entry, where an overall total of 717,822 passengers were processed, representing an 82.6 per cent increase in arrivals over 2021.

The number represents passengers processed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri, the Eugene F. Correia Airport at Ogle, and at Moleson Creek, Corentyne.

GTA’s Director, Kamrul Baksh

Throughout the years Mashramani has not only been enjoyed by Guyanese but also by tourists and foreigners who were often seen among the revellers indulging in the spirit of ‘Mash’

Republic Day messages The People’s Progressive Party/Civic

ON the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd anniversary as a Republic, the PPP/C takes this opportunity to express best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the diaspora.

PPP/C: LET’S RENEW OUR COMMITMENT TO BUILDING GUYANA TOGETHER

ON the occasion of Guyana’s 53rd Republic Anniversary, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) expresses best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the diaspora.

As we celebrate yet another national milestone of selfgovernance, we must feel a sense of collective pride at the state of our nationhood as it enters an unprecedented phase of transformative development.

Fifty-three years ago, the attainment of Republican status heralded self-rule. As we reflect, let’s renew our commitment to collectively work towards building a Guyana we all desire and to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Let us work towards removing the barriers of division, recognising that we are stronger together, as we work to achieve the collective aim of “One Guyana.”

transformational manifesto of your elected government, steadily charting a course for greatness.

Following our party’s return to government, no effort was spared to advance our nation for the betterment of all of our people. The ongoing rapid and holistic national development, driven by our expanding and growing economy, will not only transform the landscape, but will result in vast improvements in the lives of all Guyanese.

Ours is a nation at a pivotal crossroads, one of growing pride and collective optimism ushering palpable manifestations of the dreams of our forefathers, through the visionary and

Mashramani celebrates that which is achieved after hard work. There is indeed much to celebrate, as there is much hard work remaining.

We encourage all Guyanese to let Mashramani 2023 reflect an extraordinary degree of camaraderie and oneness, and let the spirit and vibes of the celebrations in every region permeate the society infinitely.

With every passing day, our promises to the Guyanese people are being fulfilled, capacity is being built, lives advanced and our country’s international stature continues to grow as global investors partner with us for the realisation of our potential.

We are optimistic that the radiance of the colours in the costumes, the energy in the stage performances and parades, and the overwhelming display of “Guyaneseness” will carry through tomorrow, the day after, and beyond. Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese!

This is a manifestation of our people-centered approach, unwavering commitment to our people and visionary and responsible leadership by the PPP/C government. These are indeed exciting times for our country and people, and our party remains committed to continue working to enhance the welfare of all.

PNC/R: TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE GUYANA ONE OF THE BEST COUNTRIES TO LIVE IN

While, at this point in time, our country is being reopened after almost two years of implemented measures to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional costume and float parade will not be held. However, this year, we have seen the gradual return of signature events of Mashramani – a heartening move that allows us, despite constraints, to share the pride that is imbued from the colourful and vibrant

ON this day, 53 years ago, our Dear Land became the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. What did (and does) it mean for Guyana to attain this status?

The Alliance For Change

The PNC Founder Leader, Forbes Burnham, said it best on the occasion of the ninth Republic Anniversary: “For us, the coming into being of the Cooperative Republic was the logical culmination of the struggle of independence initiated over 200 years ago by our national hero Coffy in Magdalenenburg, Berbice. But as I have always emphasised, political independence is not an end in itself. Rather, it represents an opportunity to create a society in which all citizens are assured of social and economic justice.”

confident that Guyanese can still forge such a nation. Our Party and coalition remain committed to the aspirations of those who fought for freedom and independence over the centuries with great courage and sacrifice.

We remain committed to realising the aspirations enshrined in our Constitution on the political, social, and economic well-being of all Guyanese. We remain committed to ensuring Guyanese from all walks of life can enjoy a high living standard and a high quality of life.

THE Alliance For Change extends greetings to all Guyanese on the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd Anniversary as a Co-operative Republic. Republic Day or Mashramani as it is more commonly known has become, for our nation, a time of celebration and taking pride in nationhood.

Our Constitution fully enshrines that grand vision. But as we mark our 53rd anniversary this year, we are yet to create a society where all citizens enjoy social and economic justice. Too many Guyanese still face the brunt of many social challenges.

Regretfully, this year, the traditional road bands and costume float parade have again been set aside due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, let us take the opportunity to remind ourselves that we are a strong people capable of overcoming any challenge that face us as a sovereign nation.

On this 53rd Republic Anniversary, we in the PNC/R and the Opposition remain

We call on all Guyanese to, therefore, keep their faith in the Guyana nation. Our country has the human, natural, and social capital to do far better for all its citizens. Obstacles, however, stand in our path. We are confident Guyanese will make the right choices to overcome those obstacles and move this country forward. Together, we can make Guyana one of the best countries to live in.

The Alliance For Change reminds that we are a people, born of great sacrifice; our ancestors shed their blood that we may inherit this fertile and resource-rich land. Let us be resolute in our belief that this country belongs to all of us. Better must come!

Again, Happy 53rd Republic Anniversary to all Guyanese.

Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese!

Republic Day messages The People’s Progressive Party/Civic

AFC: THE WORK HAS BEEN DONE AND WE DESERVE TO CELEBRATE

THE Alliance For Change joins with all Guyanese at home and in the diaspora in observance of the 53rd Anniversary of Guyana’s status as a Co-operative Republic.

On this day, 53 years ago, our newly independent nation took a step further to the acclaim of the right to self-governance and enshrined an ideology for the development of our young nation.

Over the more than 50 years as a Republic, our nation has faced many struggles: The threat to our territorial borders, global economic upheavals and more recently, the global COVID pandemic.

Through it all, we have remained resolute, unwavering in our right to all the freedoms as a sovereign state and people. The right to life, freedom of expression, to assembly and other inalienable human rights remain sacrosanct in our minds.

Republic Day or ‘Mashramani’ ought to be a time of great pride for us all as citizens of a sovereign state and in keeping with the translation of ‘Mashramani’ should be a ‘Celebration after hard work’.

The work has been done and we deserve to celebrate. However, when our freedoms are threatened, then we must remain vigilant, even as we celebrate.

ON the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd anniversary as a Republic, the PPP/C takes this opportunity to express best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the diaspora.

As we celebrate yet another national milestone of selfgovernance, we must feel a sense of collective pride at the state of our nationhood as it enters an unprecedented phase of transformative development.

grow as global investors partner with us for the realisation of our potential.

On this 53rd Republic Anniversary, the AFC calls on all Guyanese to remember we all have a right to share in our new found

prosperity and for this we must fight!

Long live the Co-operative Republic of Guyana!

This is a manifestation of our people-centered approach, unwavering commitment to our people and visionary and responsible leadership by the PPP/C government. These are indeed exciting times for our country and people, and our party remains committed to continue working to enhance the welfare of all.

ERC: CELEBRATING OUR MULTI-ETHNIC IDENTITY

tural heritage of Guyana’s diverse people remains intact since an independent Guyana took the final step towards republicanism in 1970.

Thousands of Guyanese will join in the revelry of Mashramani or observe the Republic anniversary fraternizing with friends and family. The ERC, therefore, sees the many activities and observances as another solid example of citizens taking time out as one people to celebrate.

The Commission commends Guyanese for their efforts to respect the country’s ethnic diversity and continue to contribute in spirit to attain togetherness. The task

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends warmest Republic Day greetings to all Guyanese on this important anniversary in our multi-ethnic society. The Commission reminds that in 2023 the rich cul-

While, at this point in time, our country is being reopened after almost two years of implemented measures to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional costume and float parade will not be held. However, this year, we have seen the gradual return of signature events of Mashramani – a heartening move that allows us, despite constraints, to share the pride that is imbued from the colourful and vibrant celebrations associated with Mashramani.

of the ERC is made easier as the body continuously seeks to “promote harmony and good relations” when national occasions are embraced by the people.

Today, Guyanese are able again to bond freely and observe another important milestone in their country. Happy Republic Day from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

The traditional splendor of the multitude of colours splashed to the pulsating beat of music, reflects revelry after hard work and our rich diversity that define us as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural nation – a true reflection of the “One Country, One People, One Future” under which we campaigned and the “One Guyana” we endeavor towards.

Fifty-two years ago, the attainment of Republican status heralded self-rule. As we reflect, let’s renew our commitment to collectively work towards building a Guyana we all desire and to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Let us work towards removing the barriers of division, recognising that we are stronger together, as we work to the collective aim of “One Guyana.”

Our Party also takes this opportunity to commend the dedication and efforts of all involved in the various activities held across the country to foster the spirit of Mash.

Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese!

The Alliance For Change

THE Alliance For Change extends greetings to all Guyanese on the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd Anniversary as a Co-operative Republic. Republic Day or Mashramani as it is more commonly known has become, for our nation, a time of celebration and taking pride in nationhood.

Regretfully, this year, the traditional road bands and costume float parade have again been set aside due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, let us take the opportunity to remind ourselves that we are a strong people capable of overcoming any challenge that face us as a sovereign nation.

The Alliance For Change reminds that we are a people, born of great sacrifice; our ancestors shed their blood that we may inherit this fertile and resource-rich land. Let us be resolute in our belief that this country belongs to all of us. Better must come!

Republic Day messages The People’s Progressive Party/Civic

GAWU: STEADY HANDS AT THE NATIONAL WHEEL HAVE BROUGHT US DEVELOPMENT, IMPROVEMENTS

REPUBLICANISM heralded the full and final severing of our bonds with our colonial masters. For our country, it was a mammoth achievement after centuries of colonial rule and we daresay at times exploitation.

Graduating from an independent state into a republic meant that, for the first time, we, as one people, were fully charged with guiding our nation to our destiny.

In the 53 years since that achievement, we can say at times the

ON the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd anniversary as a Republic, the PPP/C takes this opportunity to express best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the diaspora.

As we celebrate yet another national milestone of selfgovernance, we must feel a sense of collective pride at the state of our nationhood as it enters an unprecedented phase

float parade will not be held. However, this year, we have seen the gradual return of signature events of Mashramani – a heartening move that allows us, despite constraints, to share the pride that is imbued from the colourful and vibrant celebrations associated with Mashramani.

situation was perilous and cause for deep concern. The undermining of our democracy through massively rigged elections represents several sordid chapters of our history.

Similarly, our economic stagnation and regression whittled away our years of progress and advancement and literally moved us to nearly the back of the pack in this region. We know too that during the years of republicanism we have managed to attain several objectives which have redounded to our people.

Steady hands at the national wheel have brought us development and improvements. These are laudable though we know there are several empty barrels who choose to regularly express critical views.

The traditional splendor of the multitude of colours splashed to the pulsating beat of music, reflects revelry after hard work and our rich diversity that define us as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural nation – a true reflection of the “One Country, One People, One Future” under which we campaigned and the “One Guyana” we endeavor towards.

Today, as our nation and people pause to observe our 53rd Republic Anniversary, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) takes this opportunity to extend best wishes and greetings to all Guyanese.

As a working-class organisation we take great pride in our nation becoming one of the first republics in our Caribbean region.

Fifty-two years ago, the attainment of Republican status heralded self-rule. As we reflect, let’s renew our commitment to collectively work towards building a Guyana we all desire and to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Let us work towards removing the barriers of division, recognising that we are stronger together, as we work to the collective aim of “One Guyana.”

Our Party also takes this opportunity to commend the dedication and efforts of all involved in the various activities held across the country to foster the spirit of Mash.

It was a monumental step as we sought to assert our political freedom. We recognize, too, that even as we observe another republic anniversary, several issues remain unresolved. National unity and cohesion continue to attract our concern. We are conscious that they are among us those who seek to exploit our multi-cultural identify for their own political ends.

Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese!

The Alliance For Change

They deserve our widest condemnation. Similarly, the construct of an egalitarian society is one that must attract priority attention. This has become even more acute, as we are during rapid economic expansion. We remain unflinching that we must all benefit equally from the economic tide.

The celebration of our republicanism is linked to the observance of Mashramani. The colourful floats, calypso, chutney, and soca competitions, among other things feature prominently on the calendar of events. Mashramani, which means celebration after hard work, enables us to assess whether our working-class and poor have much to celebrate.

Indeed, we are all marvelled by staggering economic expansion as we have attained darling international status. Whether such plaudits have translated into real improvements for our people is yet to be fully determined.

THE Alliance For Change extends greetings to all Guyanese on the occasion of Guyana’s 52nd Anniversary as a Co-operative Republic. Republic Day or Mashramani as it is more commonly known has become, for our nation, a time of celebration and taking pride in nationhood.

Certainly, Mashramani 2023 comes against the background of workers finding difficulties. The cost of living, despite attempts by the government, continues to rise. Similarly, challenges in other areas may well be aggravating the situation. We recognise attempt to build a strong future for our people and we are heartened by such efforts.

Regretfully, this year, the traditional road bands and costume float parade have again been set aside due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, let us take the opportunity to remind ourselves that we are a strong people capable of overcoming any challenge that face us as a sovereign nation.

However, such efforts together with a trickle-up economic approach is critical, we believe, at this time. As we mix and mash as “One Guyana,” let us give true meaning to Mashramani and ensure that we all have good reason to celebrate.

The Alliance For Change reminds that we are a people, born of great sacrifice; our ancestors shed their blood that we may inherit this fertile and resource-rich land. Let us be resolute in our belief that this country belongs to all of us.

Better must come!

Once again, the GAWU extends hearty greetings to all Guyanese on Republic Day 2023. May our spirit of nationalism be further imbued by our coming together and may the goals of republicanism be drawn closer as we are One People, One Nation, One Destiny.