See below full Republic Day message issued by the PPP:
As our nation celebrates its 51st anniversary as a Republic, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to express best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the Diaspora.
Mashramani represents our history of struggles and pride in self-governance and builds on celebration after hard work.
As a nation, we must reflect on where we came from and celebrate our efforts that have led to Guyana becoming a country known for its rich diversity and resilience.
The Party is cognizant that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the much-anticipated annual vibrant Costume and Float Parade on Mash Day and other related activities across the country prior to and on February 23rd would not be held.
These celebrations have become fundamental in reflecting our revelry after hard work and Guyana’s rich diversity which defines our multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural composition.
While the characteristic splendour of the multitude of colours splashed to the pulsating beat of music will be absent and missed this year, it will not diminish the true significance of what Mashramani means to us as a nation, which 51 years ago saw the end of the final aspect of colonial rule by achieving Republic status.
This 51st anniversary comes at a time when our dear country is on a renewed path to prosperity and transformation through modernisation. This path may not have been traversed had Guyanese not stood up through relentless struggles for democracy to prevail following the constitutional transgressions of the then APNU/AFC regime and its blatant attempts to subvert the will of the Guyanese people following the March 02, 2020, elections.
That five-month period tested us as a nation and as a people. In the end, not only were our democracy and image restored, but our resolve strengthened and our commitment to safeguard our democratic processes, fortified.
All Guyanese won from this and all will benefit from the country’s current developmental trajectory.
As we observe this occasion, our Party reiterates that, with a proven record of unprecedented and sustained development, it remains committed to continue working in the best interest of Guyana and Guyanese to enhance the welfare of all.
The symbols of our nationhood, including our National Flag and the Constitution, must be respected by all Guyanese in demonstration of our patriotism. Our fortitude and passion for the further development of our nation should be prioritised even in the face of adversity.
As we are faced with the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that we remain focused on our health and well-being. As such, despite not being able to revel in the same manner as before, we should remain mindful that we have struggled as a nation but that our efforts have not gone in vain. That in itself is worthy of celebration.
It is the Party’s fervent hope that all will reflect on Guyana’s journey since attaining its status as a Republic, and continue to be imbued with patriotism and pride as we celebrate the occasion of Mashramani 2021 in a safe and responsible way.
Let us commit to working together towards a united and stronger Guyana and to the important task of nation-building.
Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese.
People’s Progressive Party
