Georgetown: President Dr. Irfaan Ali is adamant that only as a collective unit can Guyana progress to reap the benefits within reach of its people.
He said that there is no other option than for us to come together, to work together and uplift each other, while pulling down the barriers created by racism.
“There is only one option on the table, and that is moving all of us together, unified as one people, there is no other option.”
The President, who was addressing the question of racism within Guyana on online broadcasting service GlobeSpan 24X7, reassured his audience both at home and abroad that his Government is going to put all systems in place to be fair and equitable in its delivery.
“This government is willing and ready to work with every single section of our society. It is the only way we can uplift them. It is the only way we can bring real and lasting changes and transformation in our country.”
The President noted that race problems in Guyana is multidimensional and systemic and need to be addressed at all levels.
He stated that his Government is willing to put the right systems in place to create a united Guyana, and that he understands that persons need to feel that they are a part of the system and can benefit from it.
“It (eradicating racism) requires changes at the individual level that comes through education and through an understanding that the society in which you live is looking out for you, that the society in which you live is creating opportunities for you, that you see yourself as an equal participant in that society.”
The Head of State reminded his audience that as Guyanese they should focus on mutual respect and on similarities that unite us as a people.
“We can build the best roads, have the best health care system, but if we don’t change our mindset. If we don’t respect and love each other’s company, if we don’t understand what is the concept of being Guyanese….It is the set of values and guiding principles that cement us as a people.”
He said that sweeping issues under the carpet would not work and that eradicating racism is “the responsibility of every Guyanese, it is a responsibility of every leader. It’s a responsibility of every commentator, we have a responsibility. In the end, all of us must understand that we have to do our part”.
President Ali reminded the audience that too often selfish people use the race card to benefit their agendas.
“There are a lot of persons who consider themselves intellectuals who use this issue of race. They use the issue of race opportunistically. And we have to be able to address this in a very frank and open manner. They deliberately misconceive things and repackage and disseminated in a manner which promote sentiments of hate and racial feelings. Why? Why some selfish agenda? What is the motive behind that agenda? And many times they sit from afar and unfortunately, they abuse the platform of social media. And they use this platform to generate and create and try to promote distrust between the Government and the people. My appeal to all Guyanese is judge us by our work. Judge us by our policies.”
The President reiterated that the development agenda that his administration is pursuing is one that cuts across all regions and benefits all Guyanese. “Regardless of who you voted for. Regardless of how you look. This Government, my Government has a responsibility for everyone. We are building a country that will be strong, resources will be available to uplift the lives of all our people.”
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