59th Independence Messages

May 26, 2025 News

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Mayor: Let there be no doubt: Essequibo is and will remain part of Guyana

Fellow citizens of Georgetown and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Happy 59th Independence Anniversary!

Today, Monday, May 26, 2025, as we, Guyanese, proudly celebrate the 59th anniversary of our independence, we do so with hearts full of gratitude, reflection, and an unyielding determination. Georgetown—the Capital of this very blessed land—joins the nation in saluting the sacrifices of our forefathers and mothers, the strength of our people, and the unwavering spirit of our republic.

For us, independence is more than a date on the calendar; it is a sacred reminder of our long and treacherous journey from colonial rule to sovereignty, from division to unity, from struggle to progress. It is the story of a resilient people, forged in adversity, yet unbreakable in hope and aspiration. Still, on this solemn and sacred occasion, we, all of us, must also raise our voices in firm condemnation of a deeply troubling and unlawful act. The recent move by the Government of Venezuela to create tensions within our society and the region, to attempt to hold a sham election to appoint a so-called “governor” of Guyana’s Essequibo region is a blatant and provocative violation of international law, and an affront to our sovereignty.

Let there be no doubt: Essequibo is and will remain part of Guyana. Every inch of its soil, every clear and murky river that runs through it, every community that thrives within it—is part of this beloved nation. Georgetown stands resolute in defence of our territorial integrity. We, the elected stewards of this capital city, call upon all Guyanese—at home and abroad—to stand united and vigilant. The world must see that Guyana is indivisible, and no illegal decree or foreign pretension can change that truth.

Guyanese, as we reflect on our national journey and recommit ourselves to the path ahead, we must also confront the challenges within our society that demand justice, accountability, and compassion. In this moment of national introspection, the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown reiterate our unwavering belief and call for Justice for Adriana. Her life mattered. Her story must be told. And her family, like every citizen of this nation, deserves the truth. No stone must be left unturned. No silence will be accepted. Justice must—and will—be served.

On this 59th Independence Day, may we embrace our heritage with pride, defend our sovereignty with courage, and build our future with unity, dignity, and justice for all. Long live Georgetown. Long live Essequibo. Long live the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

Happy Independence Day!

His Worship, the Mayor

Mayor and City Council of Georgetown

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GTUC: Independence must deliver for the workers who fought for it

As Guyana celebrates its 59th Independence Anniversary, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) honours the workers—past, present, and future—whose sacrifices, struggles, and leadership paved the way for our country’s freedom on May 26, 1966. Yet, today, we must confront a difficult truth: while independence was won, its promise remains unfulfilled for too many.

Independence must mean something—especially for those who made it possible. The Labour Movement, beginning with the founding of the Trade Union Movement in 1926, was central to the struggle for self-determination. It is workers who marched, organised, and agitated to break the chains of colonial rule. But in today’s oil-rich Guyana, many workers find themselves shut out of the wealth they helped to make possible.

In 2025, Guyana boasted a $ $1.38 trillion (US$6.63 billion) and projected oil revenues of US$2.8 billion. Despite these figures, the average worker continues to struggle—denied decent jobs, livable wages, safe working conditions, and the basic dignity of a fair pension. Collective bargaining rights are under threat. Bauxite workers remain without termination benefits. The promises of independence are slipping out of reach for those who built this nation.

This is not a mixed anniversary for Guyana’s working class. Instead of inclusion, they face exclusion. Instead of opportunity, they face despair. The very government that should protect their rights is challenging a court ruling that upholds collective bargaining—a constitutional right. Worse still, Guyana in 2025 is dangerously divided, drifting from its foundational motto: “One People One Nation One Destiny.” Discrimination, marginalisation, and inequality persist across race, geography, and class, threatening the very fabric of our nation.

The GTUC renews its call for a governance model that is inclusive, constitutional, and rooted in human rights. We demand leadership that serves all—especially the vulnerable, the working poor, and those left behind. The Trade Union Movement remains committed to fighting for a just and equitable Guyana—for a nation where workers are respected, their rights protected, and their contributions rewarded. We continue to press for proper management of our national resources—human, natural, and economic—for the benefit of all.

The Workers’ 11-Point Call to Action:

Implement Article 13 of the Constitution to ensure inclusionary democracy and citizen participation in decision-making.

*Peg Old Age Pensions to at least the national minimum wage.

*Restore the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to financial viability and activate unemployment benefits for displaced workers.

*Revise Salary Bands for public servants, the Disciplined Services, and teachers to match the new economic reality.

*Implement a Universal Cash Grant of $1 million to every adult Guyanese from oil revenues, as proposed by Professor Clive Thomas.

*Honour Tripartite Wage Agreements made under the APNU+AFC government for private-sector workers.

*Uphold the Right to Collective Bargaining, enshrined in Article 147 of the Constitution and protected under international labour conventions.

*Ensure Free Education from nursery to university, cancel student debt at the University of Guyana (UG), and reinvest in UG and Critchlow Labour College.

*Guarantee Equitable Access to Opportunities in oil and non-oil sectors—guided by need, merit, and fairness, not politics or ethnicity.

*Promote Political, Economic, and Social Justice—there can be no peace where justice is denied.

*Abolish PAYE to ease the burden on working-class households and stimulate real income growth.

On this 59th Independence Anniversary, GTUC urges every Guyanese to reflect on the journey we’ve made—and the battles yet to be won. Our ancestors fought for our freedom. We must honour them not just in word, but in action—by continuing the fight for justice, dignity, and shared prosperity.

Happy Independence, Guyana. Let us make it mean something—for all.

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GAWU:  Celebrate this milestone with dignity and peace.

On the historic occasion of the 59th Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends heartfelt congratulations to all Guyanese. This is a time of national pride and deep reflection, as we commemorate nearly six decades since our nation broke the chains of colonial rule and took its rightful place among the free nations of the world.

The journey to independence was not a gift freely given, but a right bravely won, spearheaded by the sacrifices, struggles, and unyielding spirit of the Guyanese working class. The labour movement, of which GAWU is a proud product, played a pivotal role in resisting oppression and championing the cause of freedom. It was in the factories, the fields, and the streets that the call for liberation was sounded loudest and longest.

We especially remember and honour the outstanding leadership of Dr. Cheddi Jagan, a towering figure in our national history. His unwavering commitment to the poor and working people laid the foundation for an independent Guyana rooted in justice, equity, and dignity. His lifelong dedication to democratic principles and the upliftment of the masses continues to inspire our work today.

Since May 26, 1966, our country has seen notable advances in health, education, infrastructure, and governance. We have overcome daunting challenges, including economic hardship, political instability, undemocratic governance, and elections that betrayed the will of the people. Yet, through the perseverance and resilience of the Guyanese people, we have risen time and again.

Today, Guyana stands on the cusp of its greatest transformation. With the responsible stewardship of our natural resources and a renewed national vision, the nation is experiencing unprecedented growth. We are on track to realise the dreams of generations past—of a country where prosperity is shared, every citizen has an opportunity to thrive, and no one is left behind.

However, even as we celebrate, we are reminded of the need to remain vigilant. GAWU strongly condemns the ongoing machinations by the Government of Venezuela to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty by conducting electoral activities related to the Essequibo region. Essequibo is, and has always been, an integral part of Guyana. We reiterate that international law must be respected, and we stand firmly with the Government and people of Guyana in defence of our territorial integrity.

We also take this opportunity to reaffirm our support for the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace. At a time of global uncertainty and rising conflict, our region must continue to uphold the principles of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and diplomatic resolution of disputes.  As we mark 59 years of independence, GAWU urges all Guyanese to celebrate this milestone with dignity and peace. Let us honour the legacy of those who fought for our freedom by working together to build a stronger, fairer, and more united Guyana.

 

Happy Independence Day, Guyana!

Long live our unity, sovereignty, and peace!

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ERC:  Embrace the principles of inclusivity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends its warmest felicitations to all Guyanese at home and in the diaspora as the nation collectively observes the 59th Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence.

On this momentous occasion, we reflect with pride on the journey we have undertaken as a nation, from the dawn of our freedom to the present day. Fifty-nine years ago, our forebears, through unwavering determination, agitation and a shared vision to remove colonial domination, secured our independence, charting a course for self-determination and national sovereignty.

This anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the dreams that were kindled for a united, prosperous, and harmonious Guyana. As we celebrate this significant milestone, the ERC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where every Guyanese, regardless of their ethnic background, feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our diversity is our strength, a vibrant tapestry woven from myriad cultures, traditions, and perspectives. It is this rich mosaic that truly defines us as a nation. The ERC recognizes that building and sustaining national unity is an ongoing process, one that requires continuous dialogue,

understanding, and mutual respect. We encourage all citizens to embrace the principles of inclusivity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. Let us use this occasion to bridge divides, strengthen bonds, and work collaboratively towards a future where ethnic harmony is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality for all. May this 59th Independence Anniversary inspire us to renew our dedication to the Guyanese ideal – a nation where peace, progress, and prosperity are shared by all. Happy Independence Day, Guyana.

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GPSUB: “Guyana: A Future of Unity and Progress”

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) extends warm greetings to all Guyanese, at home and abroad, as we commemorate 59 years as an Independent Nation, a journey defined by the unrelenting will of a people determined to govern themselves with dignity, justice, and self-determination.

The GPSU embraces the National Theme, “Guyana: A Future of Unity and Progress,” as both an aspiration and a responsibility. We must recognize that without genuine national unity, grounded in respect, justice, and inclusion, all that we have achieved, positively since Independence in 1966 can be undermined. Our internal division weakens collective resolve at a time when Guyana’s sovereignty is threatened. Guyana’s firm stance against Venezuela’s unfounded claim to a large portion of our country’s resources and, by extension, its people demands that we stand together. Unity is not optional, it is essential to defending our borders, our dignity, and our future.

On May 26, 1966, Guyana proudly raised its Golden Arrowhead and stepped onto the world stage as an independent nation. More than a flag, the Golden Arrowhead embodies the essence of who we are. Its bold colours represent our vast forests, mineral wealth, mighty rivers, and the courage, endurance, and perseverance of our people. It is not merely a national emblem; it is a promise to future generations and a pledge to protect the values for which our fore-parents fought.

The road to Independence was neither short nor easy. It was paved by the unwavering leadership of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and Cheddi Berret Jagan, along with the invaluable contributions of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, the Father of Trade Unionism in Guyana, and many other Trade Unionists. Though they came from different racial and ideological backgrounds, they shared a common vision for a free, just, and united Guyana.

Supporting that vision were thousands of public servants- nurses, doctors, engineers, surveyors, teachers, clerks, technicians, law enforcement officers, and revenue workers- who kept the machinery of the colonial state functioning, even as they were denied justice. In the shadow of the empire, they laid the groundwork for nationhood.

Founded on June 8, 1923, the Guyana Public Service Union preceded the birth of our independent nation by 43 years. Born out of necessity, it became the voice of the voiceless, advocating for fair and equal treatment of Guyanese workers, in stark contrast to the privileges afforded to expatriates.

The GPSU evolved not merely as a labour organization but as a pillar of resistance, a platform for advocacy, and a partner in governance. It helped shape a professional, modern public service and continues to fight for the dignity and rights of workers throughout Guyana. Notably, the public service must be permitted to discharge its functions consistent with constitutional requirements.

Through decades of representation and negotiation, the Union has:

•       Fought for fair wages, improved working conditions, regulated working hours, and allowances
•       Challenged discriminatory labour practices
•       Advanced the professionalization of the public service
•       Participated in national development as a strategic partner, not a bystander

 

Today, the GPSU represents a broad cross-section of Guyana’s public sector, including:

 

•   Doctors, nurses, and caregivers safeguarding public health

 

•       State lawyers and legal officers upholding justice
•       Revenue officers, auditors, and customs staff ensuring fiscal integrity
•       Air traffic controllers and immigration officers protecting our borders
•       Geology and Mines workers advancing sustainable resource development
•       Alongside educators, administrators, technical personnel, and countless others

 

These workers are not merely employees of the State, they are the lifeblood of national development, the guardians of our democracy, and the silent architects of progress.

 

As one of the oldest and most resilient institutions in Guyana, the GPSU reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that progress is people-centered, that workers’ rights are protected, and that public service remains a cornerstone of democracy and national development. We believe that true progress must be anchored in justice, equity, strong institutions, and unwavering respect for the contributions of public servants and workers across this nation.

However, the Judiciary must be independent and free from political influence. It must be adequately resourced and sufficiently funded to execute its duties in a professional and impartial manner.

As Guyana enters a new chapter, fueled by a growing oil and gas economy—serious challenges emerge. The very vision that united us at Independence is now tested by:

 

•       The rise of contract labour, threatening job security and representation
•       The erosion of collective bargaining rights
•       Stalled negotiations and disregard for legally binding agreements
•       Policies that marginalize, rather than empower, the public service

 

These are not simply administrative matters, they are fundamental threats to good governance, social justice, and sustainable development.

 

To truly honour our Independence, we must rekindle the spirit of purpose and solidarity that brought us this far. The GPSU calls on:

 

•       The Government of Guyana to recommit to good-faith engagement with the Union
•       All institutions to uphold fairness, justice, and equity
•       Citizens and civil society to promote accountability and inclusion

 

•       Public servants to remain organized, informed, and committed to excellence

 

There is a significant lack of trust and confidence in our governing bodies that prevails nationally, and rebuilding the nation’s trust must be a top priority. Let us restore trust and confidence, rebuild unity, and shape a national identity rooted in equal opportunity and shared prosperity for every citizen, regardless of background or ethnicity.

As we continue to modernize and develop our beloved country, let us honour and safeguard the gains of our Independence by promoting quality public service, justice, and the dignity for all workers. We must remain resolute in our pursuit of national unity and steadfast in our demand for full adherence to our Constitution, the Rule of Law, and the International Conventions of the United Nations (UN) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) ratified by the Parliament of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

To every public servant and worker, from hospitals to schools, courtrooms to borders, mining fields to administrative offices, factories, farms, and urban or rural centers, we recognize your hard work and contributions, and we salute you. Your labour is the light that never went out, not during colonialism, not during crisis, and not during division. You are the enduring stewards of Guyana’s democracy.

Let this 59th Independence Anniversary inspire us to reflect deeply, act boldly, and live with integrity, in full alignment with this year’s theme: “Guyana: A Future of Unity and Progress” and our national motto: “One People. One Nation. One Destiny.”

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