[Tuesday] December 31st, mark[ed] the last day of 2024. Traditionally, Guyanese [were] grating their coconuts and preparing the various meats to plunk in the cook-up that will welcome all in the New Year. Others [were] getting their attires ready for mid-night mass, while some [were] preparing for the various Old Year’s revelry. The festivities for the season are nearing an end and we gleefully look forward to ushering in the New Year.
As we embrace 2025, let us reflect on 2024 and all its potentials that coalesced us as a nation and a people. 2024 was defined by our continued economic growth. Evvel again, we have been a world leader in economic progress and we continue to build a nation that stands firmly together, where each citizen, regardless of background, play a vital role in shaping a brighter future. We have continued to see increased scope for entrepreneurship among youths and envision Guyana becoming a destination for economic investments, internally and externally.
The historic visit of the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, is a testament to our ever increasing presence on the world stage. Locally, ever evolving infrastructural projects and increased attention to social services adds quality of life. However, we must ensure that all of Guyana share in our newfound patrimonial wealth and that we get the full return on every dollar invested. Transparency and accountability must always be the mantra on the lips of each and every Guyanese.
Sadly, we have seen the continued division on the political scene where the major groupings refuse to come together and resolve their differences in order to plot a unified pathway for the future. The protracted non-substantive appointments of our Chief Justice and Chancellor of the Judiciary leads to a crisis of confidence and the “status quo” is unpardonable.
The impasse at GECOM and its continued flouting of its Constitutional Mandate is a sore topic. We at A New and United Guyana (ANUG) know that working together is possible, as evidenced in the national unity shown in the face of aggression at our borders from neighboring countries. Unity is also evident when we ferociously support our local CPL franchise, the Guyana Amazon Warriors, in cricket. It is our hope that this unity will be a hallmark of the upcoming year from all players. ANUG will continue to call for national unity and for all Guyanese to respect our Constitution, as is, until modified.
The upcoming year is going to be transcendental and transformative. It is an election year, and we are cognizant that in every election year, the country thrums into full gear, politically. Let us all try to remove the negativity that is usually associated with past election cycles and lead by example, as a political party. ANUG’s founding principle is for mutual respect and working together in nation building.
This New Year, 2025, let us renew our commitment to peace, prosperity, and inclusivity. Let us work hand in hand to strengthen our communities, uplift our economy, and create opportunities for all. As we embrace the challenges ahead, may we draw strength from our diversity and find inspiration in our shared dream of making Guyana a country for all, a country where the rule of law is respected, thinking out of the box is encouraged and camaraderie expected.
Here’s to a year of unity, progress, and unwavering hope for prosperity for all. Together, we rise as One People, One Nation with One Destiny. Happy New Year, Guyana! Let us work together and build A New and United Guyana.