Latest update March 18th, 2024 12:59 AM
May 25, 2017 Editorial, Features / Columnists
Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora will be celebrating the country’s 51st Independence Anniversary in a matter of hours. It is a time for all to reflect on the achievements and disappointments since the Union Jack was lowered and the Golden Arrowhead was raised for the first time at the National Park on May 26, 1966.
The attainment of independence is one of the most important achievements in the entire history of the nation. Inspired by the ideal of a good and just society, the late President Forbes Burnham took the bold step to chart a course in pursuit of a better life for all Guyanese regardless of race, religion or party affiliation.
Forbes Burnham was a man of courage, immensely brilliant, wise and genuinely passionate, but like many of us, 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 justice and equality for all and an independent and free Guyana.
Burnham 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 knew him and 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 in the country and to bring peace and harmony to the nation.
We should forget the great risk of unpopularity which he took fighting for the rights of all Guyanese to become full-fledged first class citizens in their native land.
Had it not been for his indomitable spirit, his remarkable ability to get things done and his sterling qualities to excite enthusiasm, the independence which he fearlessly fought for would not have been achieved.
Forbes Burnham was undoubtedly a luminous son of the soil who used his skills and ornate speeches to whip up excitement when it was flagging and inspiration where it was needed. He offered hope to the hopeless and provided visionary leadership when it was necessary.
As the nation celebrates its 51stIndependence Anniversary, everyone should know that even after the chilly hand of death touched him, he fought to his last breath with the same indomitable spirit with which he fought for independence.
Whether we agree with his sentiments or his political leadership or ideology, we must acknowledge that we are indebted to Forbes Burnham who led Guyana to independence in the most difficult times. He was a transformative leader with a vision to make the small man a real man, but sadly, he did not live to see the fulfillment of the things for which he stood or the ideals for which he fought. We must honour his legacy.
Even though he was a great leader, he had his human failings.
Those who believe that harking back to the politics of the 1960s would reopen old wounds should understand that without a past, there can be no present and a future. Forbes Burnham continues to live in our hearts and minds and we will forever remember him.
More importantly, it is necessary for the people, especially youths not only to enjoy this joyous occasion, but also to review the country’s history, look at what transpired with earlier generations, and to know who or what is responsible for shaping their future.
Even though the past might be painful for some, it is necessary for us to understand the events which took place during that difficult period through the eyes of historians. Further, it is critical for all the citizens, especially youths to know and understand the country’s history and to admire and remember the late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and all those who fought to make Guyana an independent nation.
In their honor, everyone must continue their struggle to unite the people, develop the country and remove racial discrimination and hatred from society, however subtle they may be—the things Forbes Burnham fought for us.
Listen to the man that is throwing Guyanese bright future away
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