Time to put partisan cloak aside – says new President

Dec 04, 2011 News

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-urges more opposition role in government  

By Leonard Gildarie

“Now that the elections are over, it is time for all to cast aside our partisan cloaks and to put on national garb, signifying our willingness, commitment and readiness to work hand-in-hand, side by side as to consolidate and advance the gains that have been made over the years.”

Guyana’s seventh Executive President, Donald Ramotar, was yesterday sworn in. Immediately after, the 61-year-old father of three immediately called on Guyanese to put aside differences and to work to advance the country’s development.
President Ramotar, who was the Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, is expected to announce his Cabinet of Ministers and other advisors during the next 24 hours.
During the swearing-in ceremony on the lawns of State House, Main Street, and attended by senior party officials, relatives, supporters and diplomats, the new Head of State continued in his campaign conciliatory message of increased cooperation with the oppositions.
“As President of Guyana, I invite Guyanese from all of our political parties, all civic, religious and other groups in our country, to join me in furthering the economic, human, and social development of our country for the next five years.”
He was declared the President-elect during Thursday’s announcement by the Guyana Elections Commission, after three days of tense tallying of the ballots cast during Monday’s General and Regional Elections.
Partisan cloaks
Significantly, yesterday, the A Partnership For National Unity (APNU), an opposition coalition comprising of 10 parties and which contested the recent general elections, was absent from the proceedings although there were representations from the Alliance For Change and The United Force.
“Now that the elections are over, it is time for all to cast aside our partisan cloaks and to put on national garb, signifying our willingness, commitment and readiness to work hand-in-hand, side by side as to consolidate and advance the gains that have been made over the years,” Ramotar said. Some viewed that as the new president extending the olive branch to the opposition parties.
Regarding Parliament, which for the first time since acceding to power in 1992 the PPP no longer has the majority, the new President made it clear that the work of the country is paramount on the agenda.
“I will within 48 hours name my Cabinet but this will not in any way predetermine or obstruct any possible political cooperation with the other parties. The management of the affairs of our country and continued development of this nation cannot be stalled. The people of Guyana would not want us to delay the development momentum.”
Security was tight around State House, which was home to former President Bharrat Jagdeo.
The barriers ringed the blocks from Lamaha to Middle Street.
Ramotar made it clear that the challenges of running a country with the PPP/C government as minority in Parliament will not be an easy one.
Maturity
“This new arrangement in our Parliament would no doubt test our maturity as political leaders. It will demand that pettiness be put aside and our nation’s well being should always be our most important guiding influence.”
The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Chancellor (ag) of the Judiciary, Carl Singh. It was heralded by a 21-gun salute.
The new Head of State also spoke about the result of the recent elections. “These results reflect the democratic will of the people which is paramount and which must be respected. This is the very essence of democracy and our elections have reaffirmed our maturity as a democratic nation, something of which we should all be proud…
“That I have been elected to become your President is a most humbling experience. I feel deeply honoured to have been so elected and I wish to express my appreciation for the confidence that has been reposed in me. I wish to assure you that I will work tirelessly to improve the lot of all Guyanese.”
PPP/C won 32 seats, APNU 26 and AFC seven.
The PPP/C lost significant ground and blamed voters apathy–meaning that the voters stayed at home because they thought their party would win anyway.
Ramotar urged Guyana not be thwarted in the process which will not be an easy one.
“I do not envision that this process will be without its difficulties. There will be challenges, but we must be prepared to work tirelessly to ensure that we do not thwart the legitimate aspirations of our people for a higher standard of living in a prosperous and united Guyana.”
Working together
Regarding the work with opposition parties, Ramotar reminded Guyana that shortly after the announcement of the elections results, the leaders of the parties had a brief discussion in Parliament.
“I will continue these engagements as we continue the exciting task of creating opportunities for all our people and strengthening the bonds of friendship and togetherness. Despite our political differences, I believe that the various parties which have secured representation in our National Assembly can work together with all other stakeholders for the betterment of our country.”
He singled out the PPP/C which worked to make the campaign successful for praise.
“I am fully aware of the great sacrifices that were made and for this I will forever be grateful. I wish to thank my wife and children for the support given to me during the last thirty seven years. I know it is not easy for political families in the PPP.
“In thanking you, I am also expressing my gratitude to the other families that have sustained my compatriots. I wish to thank my extended family for your encouragement and understanding.”
The President, who hails from Karia Karia, Essequibo River, also spoke of his parents, Sam Ramotar and Olive Constantine, who instilled “my life values”.
“I wish to thank the Party leaders who have molded my political outlook, particularly Cheddi and Janet Jagan, and Cde Reepu who is still with us and, many others too numerous to mention.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, the inauguration of a new President in any country is an opportunity for new beginnings, and renewed commitment to the continuing progress and development of a country.”
He signaled his intentions to use his office to work steadfastly towards the goal of making Guyana a better place for all “with peace and unity as my guiding theme.”
“I promise to be a fair and just President; to govern in the interests of all; to ensure that the legitimate aspirations of our people are respected; and the resources of this Great Land of Guyana benefit all of our people.”

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