Latest update April 19th, 2024 12:59 AM
May 19, 2016 Editorial, Features / Columnists
As the month of May dawns upon the nation, almost every Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora is preparing to celebrate the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Since assuming office a year ago, the government has gone to great lengths to heighten public awareness of the activities that will be taking place across the country and in the diaspora.
It is a call to all Guyanese to commence a period of national reflection of what took place 50 years ago on May 26, 1966 when the Union Jack was lowered and the Golden Arrowhead was raised.
The attainment of political independence is one of the most important events in the entire history of Guyana. Inspired by the ideal of a good and just society, President Forbes Burnham took the bold step to chart a destiny in pursuit of a better life for all.
Forbes Burnham was a man of courage, but he was no saint. He was a man with great ideals and lofty ambitions which claimed the admiration of those who believe in the preservation of an independent and free Guyana.
He believed that it was the God-given right of every Guyanese to rule themselves, be masters in their own land and architects of their own destiny. Those who have followed his political career and listened to his speeches would know of the gallant efforts and the princely contributions he made to bridge the racial divide to bring peace and harmony to the nation.
No one should forget the great risk of unpopularity which he took fighting for the rights of all Guyanese to become full-fledged first class citizens of their native land.
Most would agree that had it not been for his indomitable spirit, his unusual ability and his sterling qualities to excite enthusiasm, the independence which he fought for would have been delayed. Forbes Burnham was undoubtedly a brilliant leader who used his oratory to make ornate speeches, and whip up excitement when it was flagging, gave inspiration where it was needed, offered hope to the homeless and provide leadership when it was necessary.
As the nation celebrates its 50th Independence Anniversary, the people should recognize that even after the hand of death touched him, Burnham fought with the same indomitable spirit with which he fought for independence.
Whether we agree with his sentiments or his political ideologies, we must acknowledge that we are indebted to the man who led Guyana to independence in the most difficult times. We must honor his legacy and even though he was much greater than lesser mortals, nonetheless, he had his human failings.
There are some who may question why go back to the Burnham and Jagan era of “Apan Jhat” politics of the 1960s and reopen old wounds. The answer is, it is important and necessary for the people, especially youths to use this significant event not only to party or dance in the streets, but to review the country’s history, look at what transpired with earlier generations, and to know who or what is responsible for shaping their psyche and the present circumstances.
While revisiting that period in history might be painful for some, it is necessary to understand what took place during that time through the eyes of historians. Further to understanding those times, is getting the information and the true history out to a wide cross section of the population.
As the nation celebrates its 50th Independence, the citizens should not only admire and revere the country’s history, but should remember Forbes Burnham and all those who fought to make Guyana an independent nation. And in their honour, everyone must join and remove racial discrimination from society, however subtle it may be.
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Please share this to every Guyanese including your house cats.
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Lets us all remember this man for what he as given to this country .