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GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

The struggle for independence and its significance

By Tota C. Mangar TODAY, May 26, commemorates the 56th anniversary of our country’s attainment of political independence from Great Britain. On this historic day in 1966, a new nation, Guyana, the only English speaking one on the South American continent, achieved national sovereignty to become the 24th member of the then British Commonwealth of Nations, thus bringing to an end several decades of British colonial rule. Guyana’s road to political independence was

indeed turbulent. For a brief period in the early 1950s its nationalist movement, the original People’s Progressive Party under the leadership of the late Presidents, Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Mr. Forbes Burnham enjoyed overwhelming support from the working class and the masses in general, as they pursued the noble objective of national unity and internal self-government. Their resounding victory at the 1953 general elections astounded many, including local reactionaries, the Colonial Office and also the US State Department.

Historian, Tota Mangar

SETBACK The mass-based party’s tenure in office was only short-lived as Great Britain, under considerable American pressure, suspended the Constitu-

tion, and overthrew the legally elected government under the guise of preventing the establishment of a communist state in the then British Guiana. The irony about

this unfortunate development was that an interim government was imposed and it comprised several of the individuals who themselves suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of the toppled nationalist candidates. As if that setback was not enough, the nationalist movement itself became severely fractured in 1955 into Jaganite and Burnhamite factions of the PPP and the eventual emergence of the People’s National Congress, a mere two years later. This development paved the way for the intense political rivalry between our foremost

two political leaders, Dr. Jagan and Mr. Burnham. Unfortunately, it was this split, more than anything else, which led to serious racial strife and insecurity in the immediate post-independence years and also ensured the local movement for political independence treading a most uneven passage. Subsequent events such as political and social instability, including strikes and disturbances which erupted as a result of the Kaldor budget and the Labour Relations Bill, clearly illustrated the very turbulent waters this nation had to endure. Continued on page 4A

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Guyana’s growth trajectory remains positive EVEN as countries the world over continue to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine, the economic prospects for Guyana remain positive at the close of the first quarter of 2022, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF in its latest edition of the World Economic Outlook, which was released on Tuesday, related that global economic prospect has worsened significantly since the last World Economic Outlook forecast was published in January. “At the time, we had projected the global recovery to strengthen from the second quarter of this year after a short-lived impact of the Omicron variant. Since then, the outlook has deteriorated, largely because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — causing a tragic humanitarian crisis in Eastern Europe — and the sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia to end hostilities. “This crisis unfolds while the global economy was on a mending path, but had not yet fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant divergence between the economic recoveries of advanced economies and emerging market and developing ones,” the IMF said. In addition to the war, frequent and wider-ranging lockdowns in China — including in key manufacturing hubs — have also slowed activity there and could cause new bottlenecks in global supply chains. Higher, broader, and more persistent price pressures also led to a tightening of monetary policy in many countries. Further, based on the IMF’s analysis, overall risks to economic prospects have risen sharply and policy trade-offs have become ever more challenging. “Beyond the immediate humanitarian impacts, the war will severely set back the global recovery, slowing growth and increasing inflation even further,” the financial institution lamented. Guyana, though also being susceptible to the economic shocks that are affecting countries across the world, is positioned to

maintain a positive economic standing because of its burgeoning oil and gas sector, and prudent fiscal planning. The country, according to the IMF, remains on course to achieving Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 47.2 per cent at the end of this year and a further 34.5 per cent at the end of 2023. HIGHEST ECONOMIC GROWTH The World Bank, after assessing the economic performance of countries during the period 2019-2021, had announced recently that Guyana recorded the highest cumulative economic growth in the Caribbean and Latin American region. The international financial institution determined that the country recorded cumulative economic growth of 72.03 per cent, and the closest nation behind Guyana was Nicaragua, which recorded cumulative economic growth of 7.53 per cent. With this rate of overall growth, Guyana ranks among the fastest growing economies worldwide. The resilience of the country’s economy is being demonstrated as the nation continues to progress despite grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and, more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Our economy is becoming stronger; it is rebounding from the two-year-long effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Businesses, both local and foreign, are capitalising on the unfolding opportunities and, in the process, generating jobs and providing incomes for our citizens,” President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had said in a recent address to the nation. Based on Budget 2022– the country’s largest to date — the government intends to enhance its approach to stimulating growth in various economic sectors. Moving ahead, growth this year would be primarily driven by the operations of

The Liza Unity FPSO

ExxonMobil’s second Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the Liza Unity. ExxonMobil, as it is now, has four sanctioned projects offshore Guyana. Of those, Liza Phase One is producing approximately 130,000 barrels per day, using the Liza Destiny floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, while the Liza Phase Two, which started production in February, is steadily ramping up to its capacity of 220,000 barrels

per day, using the Liza Unity FPSO vessel. The third project, Payara, is expected to produce 220,000 barrels per day; construction on its production vessel, the Prosperity FPSO, is running approximately five months ahead of schedule, with start-up likely before year-end 2023. The fourth project, Yellowtail, is expected to produce 250,000 barrels per day when the One Guyana FPSO comes on stream in 2025.

HUGE BENEFITS “These projects will bring huge benefits to Guyana,” President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, said during a brief interview released by ExxonMobil. It was reported that returns from the sector are expected to catapult Guyana to the ranks of wealthiest countries in the Western Hemisphere, thereby increasing the government’s fiscal space to invest in ini-

tiatives geared at expanding the economy, and improving the overall welfare of citizens. “Guyana is now poised to be one of the wealthiest countries in the hemisphere; we intend to employ the gains from exploiting these deposits into initiatives geared at expanding the economy, improving competitiveness, giving people the best social services, increasing productivity, enhancing food production, and building new sectors,” President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had said in his keynote address during a virtual faculty workshop on the microeconomics of competitiveness hosted by the Harvard Business School. In painting a vivid image of what is expected of the oil-and-gas sector in the near term, Dr. Ali said that, by 2025, operating cash flow, based on total investment, is expected to reach US$3.5 billion. Outside of oil, non-oil growth, this year, is expected to be driven mainly by rebounds in rice cultivation and gold mining, and continued expansion in construction activity and wholesale and retail trade and repairs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

The struggle for independence ... From page 2A

Loss of several lives, the destruction of properties and the severe dislocation of people to the tune of millions of dollars were the sad reality of life during this extremely dark period of our country’s history. INDEPENDENCE

At fresh elections and under a new electoral system of proportional representation instead of the previous first-past the post or constituency system, Mr. Burnham headed a PNC/UF coalition government in office in 1964. As Prime Minister, he shouldered the responsibility of leading the

country to independence while his former colleague and by then rival, served as Leader of the Opposition. Political independence was achieved on May 26, 1966 and it represented the successful culmination of several years of agitation, lobbying and political filibustering against the background of centuries of colonial domination of one form or the other. At the twitching hour of midnight, thousands of Guyanese of all walks of life stood proudly and cheered lustily as the Union Jack was lowered and our National Flag went up to herald the birth of a new, proud, ambitious and independent Guyana. Among those who witnessed the highly significant and unique ceremony were the Duke and Duchess of Kent, Colonial Secretary, Mr. Anthony Greenwood; former Conservative Colonial Secretary, Mr. Duncan Sandys; the first Governor-General of Guyana, Sir Richard Luyt and 62 delegates from 47 countries world-wide. Of added significance and to the tumultuous

applause of all who thronged Independence Square was that comforting ‘bear hug’ embrace between Cheddi and Forbes, the architects of Guyana’s freedom, only minutes before the attainment of nationhood. That emotionally charged happening promised much at the time but unfortunately in the final analysis it realised very little. As part of Independence we saw the emergence of our new Guyana Coat of Arms. On it is seen the pride of our fauna life, two jaguars holding a pickaxe and stems of rice and sugar-cane and facing each other proudly across a painted shield on top of which rests a visored helmet topped by the feathered crown of an Amerindian chieftain. Beneath, a scroll-like banner proudly proclaims the Nation’s Motto; ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ while on the shield itself are found three barrulets of azure blue symbolising Guyana’s watery nature and its water potential. This Coat of Arms justifiably accords pride of place in our national minds and reminds us of our unity and sense of purpose as an independent nation. Independence brought with it our National Flag, a slender golden arrowhead, set proudly on a background of green and red standing as a striking symbol of Guyana’s journey into the future. The lush green colour symbolises the fields and forests of Guyana’s assets of which the country is richly endowed. The red triangle represents the zeal and dynamic nature of nation-building that lies before the young and independent nation while the deep black border stands for the endurance that will sustain the forward thrust of its people. Finally, white depicts our rivers, waterfalls and our

hydro-electric potential of this “Land of Many Waters”. Our own National Anthem is a popular aspect of our Independence. Reverend Archibald Luker wrote the words of “Green Land of Guyana” in response to the nation-wide competition sponsored by the then National History and Arts Council, while our distinguished Guyanese educationist and musician, the late R.C.G. Potter composed its music. The title of our National Anthem is appropriate and expressive of colour and vitality and of land fertility. On the morning of the 26th May, 1966 the National Assembly witnessed all the pomp and pageantry and ceremonial aspects of Westminster. In the historic Public Buildings, the Duke of Kent handed over to the country’s Prime Minister, the Constitutional instruments conceding to us the dignity and pride of Independent Nationhood on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen and the British Government. Undoubtedly, the expectations of all Guyanese were very high at that point in time and they had every right to be so. Our then Prime Minister, Mr. Forbes Burnham, expressed great optimism when he said: “Thus our journeying to Independence has ended. We face, however, the harder but more emotionally satisfying and definitely more self-respecting tasks of making Guyana great among the nationsthe task of building a free and just society.” CONCLUSION What can we justifiably say 56 years after gaining independence? We certainly share in the joy, pride and dignity of being an independent nation. Our expectation was that with political independence we would have enjoyed political

stability, national unity and social and economic progress. Regrettably, the stark reality is that today our nation is still struggling to fully achieve these desired objectives. A real, prolonged and serious threat to our democracy and rule of law in the immediate post- March, 2020 general elections is a clear testimony of this sad situation. While some progress has been made on the social and economic fronts, there is still much more to be done. Our revitalised agricultural thrust is a good sign. We are still to fully accelerate our production and productivity drives. We need to focus on the challenges associated with the rapidly emerging oil and gas sector along with the impact of climate change especially on our low lying coastal plain. We should never lose sight of the current deadly scourge of the global pandemic of COVID-19 which is targetting our vital human resource with venom. Let us ensure we are all vaccinated and we rigidly adhere to all COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. Through struggle, trials and tribulations of our trail-blazers we are now living in an age of greater enlightenment and the corresponding need for more tolerance and mutual respect. Understanding and appreciation of all Guyanese towards a unified nation with a common destiny. Let us show a greater sense of purpose and maturity as we reflect on the true meaning of Independence. Let us put Guyana first in the face of an increasingly harsh world environment. Let us march forward under the “One Guyana” initiative.

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Moving forward with an agenda for transformation

THE People’s Progressive Party/C (PPP/C) extends to all Guyanese, at home and abroad, greetings on Guyana’s 56th independence anniversary. On June 5, 1958, founder of the PPP/C and former president, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, posed an important question to the Legislative Council – What do the people of this country want in this phase of our history? Today, 56 years following independence, this question has contemporary applicability, particularly, given the current global challenges that impact our nation, from the global COVID-19 pandemic to climate change. The people of the coun-

try answered this question at the March 2020 polls by endorsing the PPP/C’s “Plan for Prosperity.” Under successive PPP/C administrations, the foundation for transformative change was laid and, in 2020, this agenda was broadened to include more ambitious targets in all sectors, specifically in education, healthcare and agriculture. Our nation is moving forward with an agenda for transformation, bolstered by the success of our burgeoning oil and gas sector, which will benefit all our people by: increasing their ability to create wealth, improving their standard of living and wellbeing, and advanc-

ing their ability to pursue self-development through education among a plethora of other interventions. From direct support to farmers and school-aged children, to building the infrastructure for future advancement, the PPP/C developmental agenda creates space for all of our people to benefit, participate and lead. The PPP/C uses this occasion to not only celebrate our gains, but to also recommit itself to the service of all Guyanese in a transparent and accountable manner. As we reflect on the struggles of the pre-independence era, Guyanese are encouraged to reflect on the gains we have made, bearing in mind that our

collective will and effort are demanded to move our great nation forward and sustain our progress. Looking ahead, in light of the prevailing challenges, our immediate task is to ensure that our democracy is bolstered. A democratic nation, where the will of our people can be freely expressed, is quintessential to ensuring our continued development, peace and progress. Democracy has been, and remains, a pillar of our development. As our people demonstrated during the March 2020 period, the fight to protect our democratic gains is a perpetual effort. This phase of Guyana’s history promises to be an

exciting time for positive change and progress, even as our nation, under the PPP/C administration, reclaims its place as a regional and global leader on issues of food, security, climate change and more. In 1958 freedom was the answer to the question – What do the people of this country want in this phase of our history? – and, this notion remains a poignant reminder of how far we have come and how far we have yet to go as a people. More recently, PPP/C General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, during country-wide outreaches, reiterated the importance of democracy to our freedoms and development and to the im-

plementation of the party’s transformative agenda. We are also reminded that the freedom that independence brings is not merely parochial; it comes with a responsibility for all patriotic-minded Guyanese to reject ploys that seek to divide our people for selfish gain; it comes with a responsibility for our people to hold all leaders accountable; and it comes with a responsibility for each of us to play our part in the prosperity of Guyana that we share as “One People, One Nation, with One Destiny.” The PPP/C, again, extends best wishes to all our people on this momentous occasion.

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

My fellow Guyanese, Happy Independence Day. On the occasion of this the 56th anniversary of our Independence, I wish, on behalf of the Opposition and on my own behalf, to congratulate the people of Guyana for achieving another milestone. As we contemplate where we are today as a nation, I find it appropriate to recall one of the solemn pledges we, the Guyanese people, have enshrined in the preamble of our constitution. We have pledged to: “Forge a system of governance that promotes concerted effort and broad-based participation in national decision-making in order to develop a viable economy and a harmonious community based on democratic values, social justice, fundamental human rights, and the rule of law.” Our nation has simply not lived up to the aspirations in our constitution. We can and must do better. We owe that much to the generation who fought for our Independence. Even more, we owe it to ourselves, to our children, and to the generations to come. What do I mean when I say “we can and must do better”? How does our nation get there? First, as a people, we must believe in ourselves. We must believe in our creativity to envision a great nation. We must believe in our abilities to reach those great heights, in our strengths to overcome inevitable obstacles. And we must believe in our resolve and resilience to forge ahead relentlessly. Second, we must build an unshakeable and shared understanding that Guyana and its riches belong to all Guyanese. No ethnicity, no group, no class, no citizen is superior to any other. All must be treated equally and respected. And all must share fairly and equitably in the national patrimony. Third, we must strive for good governance as our fundamental human right.

Let us together climb to a better Guyana

Accountability to the people is achievable and a must. Inclusivity in national decision-making is achievable and a must. Transparency is not a government bonus but a necessity and the people’s right, and so is the rule of law. So too is the effective management of the nation’s resources. Fourth, to do better, the social and economic rights enshrined in our constitution and in the international conventions to which Guyana is a signatory must be seen not as merely aspirational, but as rights to be actually fulfilled and enjoyed by citizens. Our constitutional rights, for example, to be free from want, hunger, and ignorance; and our right to work, to leisure, to good health, and to a safe environment must no longer exist only in words, they must be actually guaranteed fully—and urgently. Fifth, we must move beyond lip service and give substance to building racial harmony in Guyana. We can and must take tangible steps to eliminate racial discrimination, to guarantee equality of opportunity for all, and to establish healthy inter-ethnic understandings and interactions. Sixth, we can and must do better as a people to entrench our shared values, strengthen our sense of “One Destiny”, and rejuvenate our national pride. My fellow Guyanese, despite the decades of challenges, the fact that we, as a nation, have travelled this far together is an achievement in itself. Fifty-six years is not a short journey. Our survival speaks not only to our strong spirit and will power, it also speaks to our capacity to keep travelling forward. But we have arrived at a critical crossroad in our history where we are required not only to travel forward, but also to travel upward. Upward towards a society and an economy in which we can end poverty, lift and expand the middle class, and ensure all citi-

zens can live decently and comfortably. Upward where being classified as one of the world’s richest countries

could translate into a better quality of life for the people of Guyana. Let us together climb to a better Guyana.

These are the thoughts that we need to ponder on this the 56th anniversary of that historic day in May

1966. Once again, Happy Independence Day!

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

President Ali has The Government of propelled agriculture India will support in all into an exciting new era possible ways

On behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I extend congratulations to the Government and People of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana on the occasion of the country’s 56th Anniversary of Independence. An original signatory to the Treaty of Chaguaramas, Guyana also serves as host country to the headquarters of the Caribbean Community Secretariat; this is an indication of its long-standing and firm commitment to Regional Integration. Mr. President [Pres-

CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett

ident Dr. Irfaan Ali], as the Head of Government with responsibility for Agriculture and Food Security in the community’s Quasi-Cabinet, your leadership has propelled the sector into an exciting new era. The successful recent Agri-Investment Forum and Expo in Guyana is just one example of the dynamism injected into the sector. Excellency, the Caribbean Community reiterates its support to the Government and People of Guyana, and joins in celebrating this auspicious occasion.

Namaste to my dear brothers and sisters of Guyana. On behalf of the people and Government of India, the High Commission of India in Georgetown and my own behalf, I extend my felicitations and heartfelt greetings to the friendly people and the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, on the joyous occasion of the 56th anniversary of independence. India cherishes its strong partnership and historical ties with Guyana which are buttressed by our commitment towards more people-to-people ties, and convergence of views on important issues

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa

at bilateral, multilateral and international fora including the CARICOM and the UN. The fast-paced Guyanese development and progress

will have India joining as its valuable partner in various sectors, including education, agriculture, MSME, healthcare, infrastructure, oil and Continued on page 9A

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

The attainment of political independence represented the culmination of years of struggles of our people to extract themselves from the yoke of colonialism. Indeed, it was widely felt that the chains of the colonial master served as a major restraint eroding fundamental freedoms and our ability to chart our own destiny. In the 56 years of independence, we believe we have come a long way and scored several impressive gains. Those years though have not been without challenge. In the period, we faced up and overcame natural disasters, economic turmoil, divisiveness, and undemocratic rule. It is a testimony to our people and nation that we have come so far despite the adversities in our way. It also is a fitting tribute to those who led and participated in the independence struggle that gave way to independent Guyana. It is against that background that the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends to all Guyanese best wishes on the occasion of Independence Day 2022. As we observe yet another anniversary of the milestone achievement, we of the GAWU, as a patriotic organisation, take pride in our successes as we urge that our setbacks serve as abiding lessons in charting the future. As we look towards the horizon on this Independence Day, we recognise that the country, like no other period in its history, is on the cusp of massive advancement. Today,

our natural wealth which belongs to us all is yielding significant sums which are being channelled into allround development which is intended to improve the lives of all Guyanese. Today, as we celebrate our freedom to chart our course, we cannot ignore lingering concerns. Currently, we recognise challenges to our people’s well-being and welfare remain ever present. Rising living costs remain a foremost concern of our working-people and their families. We recognise the effort of the government to offer relief. This is laudable and welcomed though concerns are harboured about whether such reliefs are reaching our peoples. The need for sustained direct interventions should be considered and in this vein we reiterate our call for the long-outstanding improvement in the National Minimum Wage. The occasion of Independence also allows us the opportunity to examine our economic trajectory. Though we have recorded substantial growth in recent times, and this is expected to be sustained in the coming years, we remain concerned about whether these developments are reaching our peoples equally. These issues can well grow sharper in the coming times and there is a need to ensure that proper mechanisms are in place to safeguard against such real concerns. We also should not lose focus on the necessity to maximise our national wealth

The Government ...

From page 8A gas, among other things. The Government of India will support Guyana in all possible ways to assist in its requirements and continued growth. We continue to encourage Indian companies to invest in Guyana and work actively with Guyanese companies, especially in technology support and knowledge sharing. India is very proud to offer training and capacity building in civilian, defence, security, media and other sectors for nation building. I would like to reiterate that the Government of India led by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is working to ensure special partnership with countries like Guyana. Friends, I take this opportunity to once again wish all the dear brothers and sisters of Guyana continued success, prosperity and progress in the coming years. Long live Guyana. Long live India-Guyana friendship

Let us chart a future of inclusivity and prosperity for our people

whether natural or human towards ensuring that our people remain foremost beneficiaries. Indeed, our Independence Anniversary affords us the

opportunity to reflect on our journey. It gives us the opportunity to chart a future where we seek to obtain our objectives of “One Guyana” and where we can build a

stronger Guyana together. On this Independence Day, our desire is to see a future of inclusivity and prosperity for our people. In this regard, as we draw

closer to our objectives of building a modern, prosperous country, the GAWU, again, extends best wishes on this 56th Anniversary of Independence.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Republished from May 26, 1993…

An era of rediscovery

THE nation is 27 years old today and the observances and celebrations will continue for the rest of the week, focusing on an era of rediscovery. Many, because the significance of Independence had been downplayed for several years, might have forgotten the emotions of that night when the Guyana flag was hoisted for the first time, signalling the end of colonial rule. Those who were not born then are now learning of a chapter of Guyanese history that had all but been forgotten. They do not know of the struggles that preceded Independence and, for them, celebrating Independence, is a new experience. Schools and other institutions will now have to revisit the era if Guyanese are to fully rediscover themselves and learn of the struggles that went into the making of the nation.

It is a shame that so many young people do not know much of the struggles of their foreparents to free themselves from colonial rule and all that that meant. Some, for their own cheap political ends, have read sinister designs into the renewed emphasis by the government on the Independence anniversary observances. One point to note is that the present administration did not choose the date of Independence and it has not changed the date of the Independence Anniversary. Guyana was born on May 26, 1966 and Independence Day remains May 26, so it is difficult to understand the claims in some quarters that the government has moved to re-emphasise Independence to coincide with the first arrival here of Indian indentured labourers. The flag, the Coat of Arms, the National Anthem, came with Independence and

the nation must remember from whence it came if it is to properly chart a correct course ahead. All the heroes must be remembered and honoured – from Cuffy to those still living. The Republic Anniversary celebrations, the government has said, will also be national events but the significance of Independence and the continuing struggles to October 5 also have their place in history. History cannot be erased and events cannot be twisted for too long. The very notion of being Guyanese came with Independence and that is a stage that must be appropriately reflected on. The story of the fight for Independence must be told and it is fitting that in this new era, the nation has begun to rediscover itself. Here’s to a Happy Anniversary!

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Some of the heroes and architects of Independence

AS Guyanese, we often hear stories of our national heroes, courageous strong men and women who fought so that we could today celebrate Guyana as an Independent nation. Names like Cuffy, Damon, Dr Cheddi Jagan, Linden Forbes Burnham, Janet Jagan, Desmond Hoyte, Stephen Campbell and many others, immediately come to mind. Guyana’s road to Independence predated the signing of that agreement on May 26, 1966 and runs back all the way to slavery and to the Enmore Martyrs. This article looks at some of the earlier heroes and the architects of the country’s Independence

OVERTHROWING MAGDALENEBURG, THE CUFFY STORY In the year 1633, the first set of Africans were stolen from the land of their birth and brought to the new world as slaves, being stripped of their culture, names and identities. By the 1760s there were about 15,000 slaves in the three colonies of Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice. Longing for their freedom, slaves often attempted to run away or leave their plantations but were in most cases unsuccessful and were flogged or even killed for their plans to leave the plantations due to the inhumane treatment they would have received. The 1763 revolutions are recorded as a pivotal juncture in the abolition of slavery in not just here but also in the Caribbean. Cuffy, Damon and Quamina, three ex slaves have been greatly credited for their work as the movers and the shakers of the slavery abolition movement. Following the successful rebellion of slaves who fled into the woods and became “bush negroes’ or Djuka people in neighbouring Suriname, African slaves in Berbice became emboldened to fight for their freedom and decided to undertake similar actions. Led by a house slave named Cuffy (or Kofi), the Berbice slaves overran plantation Magdaleneburg, removing the colonial masters, and taking their freedom. During that battle for freedom, Cuffy did not act alone; he was aided by two slaves Atta and Akara who served as his right-hand men during that period. Cuffy and his lieutenants led 3,833 enslaved Africans to their

the “Captain” and ringleader of the unrest; and at noon on October 13, 1834, he was hanged for rebellion in front of the Parliament Buildings. Although Damon lost his life, his resilience influenced many other exslaves and even warned plantation owners of the strength and the will of the Africans to be free.

Guyana’s first Premier, Cheddi Jagan

Stephen Campbell with a petition presented at the London Constitutional Conference

freedom. Cuffy had planned the revolt just as two shiploads of people from Africa had arrived at the docks, which significantly increased the number of Africans in the fight to overthrow the 346 colonial masters. The rebellion spread like a forest fire to neighbouring plantations, and within one-month, Africans were in full command of most of the plantations in Berbice. Cuffy declared slaves free and the Africans managed the plantations for almost a year. After the plantations were recaptured by the Dutch, Cuffy shot himself in the head, in a bid to never submit to his enslavers. Although their freedom did not last due to Dutch reinforcements arriving by ships with heavy machinery to recapture the slaves, Cuffy left a lasting legacy, one that inspired other slaves to fight for their freedom and to never give up until they were free. The February 23, 1763 Cuffyled revolution, was recorded in European history as the first major revolution by Africans in the western hemisphere and influenced several other revolutions in the west including the Haitian revolution led by Toussaint Louverture.

continued to work with their former masters for minuscule wages. This did not sit well with the ex-slaves who had a different vision for what life would be like after freedom. True freedom came in 1838 when the apprenticeship system was abolished. What started the fall of La Belle Alliance was a problematic move by the owner of Richmond sugar plantation, Charles Bean, who stirred up trouble by killing the pigs and cutting down the fruit trees of the former slaves, which was a subsistence income for those ex-slaves. His excuse for this destruction of the ex-slaves’ properties was that their pigs were destroying the roots of his young canes. Being displeased with that type of unjust treatment, the ex-slave Damon called on other ex-slaves to oppose Bean. Some 700 apprentices downed tools in aid of Damon’s cause. On August 3, 1838, they protested the apprenticeship scheme. The following morning, the freed slaves were more than surprised, and became angry when they were ordered by their former masters to return to work. By August 9, the labour situation worsened when ex-slaves from Richmond to Devonshire Castle downed tools and gathered in the Trinity Churchyard at La Belle Alliance. Governor Smyth addressed the workers at Plantation Richmond, telling them that the apprenticeship period was still in force and they should go back to work. He arrested the leaders of the peaceful demonstration. Damon was referred to as

DAMON AND THE FALL OF LA BELLE ALLIANCE Following years of attempts to be free and treated humanely, African slaves gained Independence on August 1, 1834. When the Emancipation Act was finally passed in 1833, it did not automatically give the slaves their freedom. The now freed slaves were transitioned into a period of apprenticeship and

THE ENMORE MARTYRS On June 16, 1948, shock waves were sent across Guyana as five sugar workers were shot and killed by police at the Enmore Estate, East Coast Demerara. Lallabaggie and Dookie from Enmore, and Rambarran, Harry and Pooran from Enterprise/Non Pareil, are known as the Enmore Martyrs, who lost their lives while protesting unfair treatment on the sugar estates. Cane cutters, backed by the Guyana Industrial Workers Union (GIWU), went on strike demanding the abolishment of the existing “cut and load” system in the fields, which was introduced in 1945. Cane cutters had to load the sugar punts with the cane they cut. As part of the demands of the 1948 strike, the cane cutters called for the replacement of “cut and load” with a “cut and drop” system by which the cane cutters should cut the cane, but other workers would load the cut cane into the punts for shipment to the factory. In addition to this particular issue, the workers demanded higher

Continued on page 12A

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Some of the heroes... From page 11A

wages and improved living conditions on the sugar estates. However, the real aim of the strike was to demand recognition of the GIWU as the bargaining union for the field and factory workers on all the sugar estates in the country. On June 16, a crowd of about 400 workers protested outside the Enmore factory. The management of Enmore Estate expecting this protest action had, the evening before, requested assistance from the police. Lance Corporal James and six policemen, each armed with a rifle and six rounds of ammunition were sent from Georgetown on the morning of June 16. At 06:00 hrs, they took up positions in the factory compound which was protected by a fence 15 feet high with rows of barbed wire running along the outward struts at the top.

By 10.00 hrs, the crowd had grown to between 500 and 600 persons and was led by one of the workers carrying a red flag. They attempted to enter the factory compound through the gates and through two trench gaps at the rear by which punts entered the factory. But they were prevented from doing so because the locked gates and the punt gaps were protected by policemen. Accounts of the incident indicated that one section of the crowd hurled sticks and bricks at the police and a few persons got into the compound from behind the factory. The police tried to keep the crowd at bay but their efforts proved futile. As such, they opened fire which resulted in the death of five sugar workers and injuries to 14 of them. The sacrifice of those five sugar workers brought enough attention to

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

the plight of the sugar workers that some of the major objectives were achieved, including better treatment of sugar workers. Additionally, the tragedy and the ultimate sacrifice of these sugar workers greatly influenced Dr. Jagan’s political philosophy and outlook.

STEPHEN CAMPBELL On December 26, 1897, in Santa Rosa, Moruca, British Guiana, Maria Dos Santos and her husband, Tiburtio Campbell welcomed their baby boy, Stephen Esterban Campbell, who, little did they know, would one day become a legend and hero for many Amerindians and Guyanese. Campbell, who, belonged to the Arawak Tribe, was raised by his grandmother after his parents died. He was described as a man

This bronze monument of Damon is located next to the Anna Regina Town Hall on the Essequibo Coast

who never limited his abilities to naysayers, which led him to become the first Indigenous member of the British Guiana Legislative Council that is now called Parliament. He entered the Council on September 10, 1957; hence, September was chosen to honour the national contribution of Indigenous Guyanese.

Campbell was the holder of many professional caps. He was a teacher at various villages and settlements, he worked in bauxite mines and he did farming. His work with common labourers and the difficulties he endured, certainly shaped his views and influenced his activism for education for Indigenous peoples. Campbell was at the age of 60 when he entered party politics, joining a party called the National Labour Front (NLF). He was particularly passionate in his fight for equal opportunities for Indigenous peoples during his tenure as a politician. A strong believer in empowerment and self-sufficiency, Campbell fought vigorously during his parliamentary days for educational opportunities and land rights for indigenous communities. During the colonial days, the then rulers allowed Amerindians to live their life in ‘reservations’, according to their traditions and practices, subject to certain limitations. However, Amerindians at that time had no formal title of ownership or established legal rights to the lands which they used or where they lived, which saw fear arising when there were talks of then British Guiana becoming an Independent country. The people feared that after the country gained Independence, whatever rights they enjoyed would have been trampled upon and ignored and the lands on which they lived and built their families on for thousands of years would have been expropriated. In 1962, Campbell travelled to London to present a petition and lobby the British Government for recognition of Amerindian land rights. On that first visit to London, Campbell took with him a petition which was written on a long scroll and signed by dozens of Indigenous leaders of the day. He presented it to the British Secretary of State, Duncan Sandys, in London, after having a private, one-hour meeting with him. Sadly, on May 12, 1966, two weeks before British Guiana gained Independence, Campbell passed away while he was receiving treatment in Canada where he was later laid to rest. However, the works that he did during his last days made sure that when Guyana attained its Independence on May 26 1966, Indigenous Peoples had legal ownership of land and rights of occupancy and these were embodied in the Independence provisions. GOVERNMENT OF UNITY: THE CHEDDI, BURNHAM STORY Dr Cheddi Jagan and Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham ushered in a period of togetherness for Guyanese just prior to the country gaining its Independence from its colonial masters. Being ruled by the first Government of unity was great for the Guyanese people who were seeking to recreate their country, freeing it from its colonial past and preparing it for a brighter future. Dr Jagan, Guyana’s first Premier, was born at Port Mourant, a sugar plantation on the Corentyne Coast of Berbice, on March 22, 1918. His parents came to British Guiana from India as indentured labourers. Jagan’s father was a cane cutter, who became a field supervisor for cane cutters. Jagan received his

high school education from Queen’s College, an exclusive secondary school in Georgetown that was reserved for children of the middle class. Upon graduation from high school, Jagan migrated to the USA and studied pre-dentistry at Howard University for two years. He completed his education as a dentist at Northwestern University. Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham was the son of a schoolmaster. He also attended Queen’s College. Renowned for his scholastic ability, young Burnham won the Guyana scholarship, which earned him the right to free university education in the UK. Burnham studied at the University of London. He was subsequently admitted to the bar as a barrister-at-law at Gray’s Inn. When Burnham returned to British Guyana in 1949, Jagan was already well known as an anti-imperialist fighter for the working class. Dr Jagan was one of the first leaders of the Caribbean to call for Independence from British colonialism. Burnham and Jagan teamed up under the political banner of the PPP, forming an alliance that became a formidable political force. Burnham became deputy leader of the PPP, Jagan was elected leader. Together, these energetic young men made the PPP a vibrant political force. They were at the forefront of a new political movement that swept through the rural countryside, through villages, sugarcane plantations, and rice fields of the country; ordinary citizens participated in politics. The PPP won the national elections in 1953 and Dr Jagan became premier, head of the Cabinet; Burnham was named Minister of Education, and other young African and East Indian men and women also enjoyed their first experience at party politics serving as Members of Parliament and also in several ministerial positions. This was the first Government of unity of Guyana: East Indians and Africans came together under the leadership of Dr Cheddi Jagan. He sought justice for his constituents, regardless of their race. This type of cohesion did not sit well with the colonials who sought to see Guiana divided one race against another, and shortly after British troops invaded, in October 1953, in an effort to revert all that was done by the Indo and Afro Guyanese leaders, Jagan and Burnham. The soldiers came with orders to terrorise the people and to shoot if necessary. The troops terrorised people into disavowing any affinity with the PPP. In the midst of the invasion, Dr Jagan and several members of his Cabinet were thrown in jail on trumped up charges of sedition and treason, for allegedly abusing the Queen. The governor took full charge of the Government and assumed absolute powers. By declaring a state of emergency, the Governor usurped the roles of Parliament, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, the Judiciary, and the commanding officer of the armed forces, all with the complicity and backing of his compatriots in the British Parliament. So, after a bold bid for self-rule, British Guiana was back in the clutches of British imperialism. Once again the local whites regained the control over the affairs of the colony that they had surrendered just a few short months earlier. This British rule by force lasted four years, while the people’s elected representatives were either incarcerated or were busy defending themselves against trumped-up charges. PPP political leaders had to raise several thousand dollars to hire senior British lawyers to defend them in court. Of the detainees, Dr Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, Sydney King and other former members of the PPP Government remained captive but later won their case and were released to continue leading Guyana forward as the country stepped into a new age. (This piece was compiled from stories in the Guyana Chronicle archives)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Colonisation ends, institutions rise — a look back at the establishment of pillars of development that exist to this day

IT has been just about six decades since Guyana attained its instruments of independence from Great Britain, and while the events leading up to this historic moment paved the way for the ‘home’ that we know and love today, it was the events that followed thereafter that saw Guyana being the great independent nation it is. With Guyana becoming an independent nation officially on May 26, 1966, a lot of changes were made, one of the most significant being

a national “deed poll” which saw the name British Guiana being changed to Guyana, and later to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, in 1970. As the country turned the page to start its new chapter, it also adopted its own flag, National Anthem and many other symbols. Along with these changes also came the introduction and building of a new economy, starting with the establishment of several institutions which are still standing to this day. And while they are far too numerous to mention,

for that purpose.

Flashback: Ranks of the then British Guiana Police Force (Guyana Police Force photo)

the Guyana chronicle seeks to highlight the progression of a few of these institutions. THE NATIONAL INSURANCE SCHEME Birthed in September 1969, the National Insurance Scheme came into being as part of the National Insurance and Social Security Act of that same year. The 52-year-old agency was established three years after Guyana gained independence from Britain, in May, 1966 At the heart of this scheme is a system of social security which provides monetary payments to contributors for old age, invalidity, survivor’s, sickness, maternity and funeral benefits. In an interview prior to his death in 2016, former General Manager of NIS, Patrick Martinborough, had said that, when the scheme was established, there were only two national schemes in the Caribbean, and those were in Jamaica and Barbados. However, the Guyana Scheme was the first of its kind relative to its level of supervision and control, since the others were mere departments of government while the local scheme was the first to be managed by an independent board. The NIS also earned the status of a training centre and was used by the International Labour Organization (ILO)

THE GUYANA POLICE FORCE One of the oldest institutions in the country, the Guyana Police Force, was established on July 01, 1839 and while it was around before independence, it was refashioned, not only through uniform and name but also with ranks. The then British Guiana Police Force was established with 245 ranks represented by three Inspectors, 25 Sergeants, 25 Lance Sergeants and 192 Privates. The Chief Administrator of the Police Force at that time was termed a Sheriff, who was subsequently named Commissioner. According to an article published by the Police Force in 2018, the development of the Guyana Police Force can be traced through the following stages: Police idea in the country since the Dutch occupation; the Dutch system continued after the British took possession in 1803; the Board of Police for Georgetown was formed in 1812; outlying districts were provided with police settlements under the supervision of a Sheriff in 1834 and then the force was enlarged. Further, the word constable was introduced in 1836; the force properly organised and put under the control of an Inspector-General in 1839; the present numbering system was introduced in 1855; the force became semi-military in 1891; the Mounted Branch was formed in 1905; title of officers changed in 1938; appointment of first Assistant Superintendent from the ranks was made in 1944; further changes of titles were made in 1950 and the Police Federation was created in 1950. Moving closer to independence, the Police Women Branch was formed in 1953; the Police Training School detached from Depot in 1956; Continued on page 15A

GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022

Colonisation ends,...

From page 14A the Police Ordinance was amended and consolidated in 1957 and police dogs were introduced to the force in 1960. The duties of the police were solely to bring to justice all persons charged with or suspected of murders, robberies, thefts of all description, and to suppress and prevent tumults, riots, brawls, outrages and disorders and all other offences. The Guyana Police Force

Investigation Department, Photographic Section, Forensic Department, Immigration Department, Traffic Department, Communication Section, Museum, Mounted Branch, Canine Section, Felix Austin Police College, among others.

THE BANK OF GUYANA Established by virtue of the Bank of Guyana Ordinance No. 23 of 1965, the Bank of Guyana commenced operations on October 16. 1965, some seven months

The National Insurance Scheme

The Bank of Guyana

in an independent Guyana has been completely revolutionised. Three training colleges have been established to train policemen and policewomen in every aspect of policing. To broaden their expertise, they are sent on overseas training in areas such as police administration, general police operations, senior command course, among others. Police personnel are attached to a number of specialised departments and sections namely the Criminal

before the country gained its independence. The early establishment of the bank was said to be prompted by an agreement of the U.K. Government (acting for the still colonial members of the British Caribbean Currency Board [BCCB] and the Trinidad & Tobago Government), for the dissolution of the BCCB by mid-1967 and the cessation of issuance of currency after 1965. Established as an ‘autonomous institution’ with headquarters in the capi-

tal city of Georgetown, the bank’s principal objectives were and still are grounded in the context of the economic policy of the Government. The bank is guided in all its actions by the objectives of fostering monetary stability and promoting credit and exchange conditions conducive to the growth of the economy of Guyana. Apart from specifying the

administrative and management arrangements for the bank, the Ordinance, inter alia, decreed the bank to have the sole right to issue and redeem notes and coins, act as banker to the commercial banks, act as fiscal agent and trustee of and banker to the government and administer payment agreements entered into by the government. The Ordinance establish-

ing the bank was revised and became the Bank of Guyana Act CAP: 85:02. This Act was further revised in 1995, 1998 and in 2004. The latter revisions significantly enhanced the role and purpose of the bank within the framework of Guyana’s economic and financial system. Additionally, they imparted greater autonomy to the bank in terms of its

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constitution, administration and operations. Since its establishment, the bank has unassumingly laid the foundation for the economic growth of Guyana notwithstanding the many challenges. It has provided leadership to the financial system and the public sector in general, under difficult situations at times.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE INDEPENDENCE SUPPLEMENT Thursday, May 26, 2022