Guyana moving full speed ahead

When Desmond Hoyte took over in August 1985 there was a change.

Thanks to Jimmy Carter, former US President, who ensured that the next elections were free and fair. It was only then that the PPP/C won and Cheddi Jagan was sworn in as President in October 1992. Cheddi died five years later, but he never removed the sweeping powers of the Executive President which he severely criticised when Burnham held that top post. Forbes was deemed a dictator for most of his action, banning basic foodstuff, compulsory national service for university students, ultra left policies such as mass games, and students were only permitted to study in Russia, Cuba, Hungary, and other socialist/communist countries… he nevertheless was in the forefront in the establishment of CARIFTA, the forerunner of CARICOM and CARIFESTA.

Cheddi started the University of Guyana, but Forbes expanded on it. Now UG is world renowned having trained tens of thousands who are now scattered all over the world as far as Australia, India and Timbuktu. When Guyana became a republic in February 197O British awards like Sir, CBE, OBE. MBE were removed for local awards like OE, OR, CCH, AA and MS. QC /KC was replaced by Senior Counsel. Space does not permit for me to highlight the most, but I cannot conclude without referring to the assassination of historian, Walter Rodney, who was killed because he was a critic of the Burnham regime.

Perhaps the most significant action of the country’s 57 years of nationhood was the no confidence motion against the David Granger APNU/AFC administration which was supported by Charrandass Persaud, an AFC back bencher. The move was challenged but the highest court, the CCJ, ruled against the coalition government. It took a relatively long time before Irfaan Ali was sworn in as President on August 2, 2O20. Guyana is now moving full speed ahead setting up more embassies and forging alliance with progressive countries. Congratulations, Guyana continue the good work.