“All of Essequibo belongs to all of Guyana, and that is the way it will remain” — Pres. Ali at Independence celebration in Reg. 2

In a spectacular show of national unity and cultural pride, thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life converged at the Anna Regina Car Park in  Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Saturday evening to celebrate Guyana’s 59th Independence anniversary.

This year’s celebration carried an especially poignant message – a resounding affirmation that Essequibo belongs to Guyana amidst the ongoing territorial controversy with Venezuela.

Addressing the large gathering, President Irfaan Ali emphasised that the Independence celebration was not just a moment of national pride, but a powerful statement to the international community — that Guyana remains firm, united, and resolute in defending its territorial integrity.

President Ali emphasised that Guyana’s message would be delivered through unity, not hostility.

“Tonight, we will demonstrate in culture, we will demonstrate in dance and music, we will demonstrate in what binds us together as a nation. We will showcase — not with weapons — but we will showcase with our love, our culture, and our peaceful nature, tonight, who we are, what we stand for. And we will showcase this in no better place than Essequibo, that belongs to Guyana,” he declared.

The cultural performances, marked by traditional music, dance, and the waving of the golden arrowhead, reflected Guyana’s multicultural spirit. But under the celebration was a steady undercurrent of resolve — a firm stance against Venezuela’s recent actions.

President Ali detailed the series of violations by Venezuela, including the illegal referendum, aggressive military movements, and the provocative establishment of a “Guyana Essequiba State.” He recounted Guyana’s diplomatic responses, the support of international bodies like the ICJ, CARICOM, and the OAS, and the provisional orders issued to restrain Venezuela’s activities.

“Let me be clear on Guyana’s position…Venezuela has given the Guyana Essequibo region whatever name it wants to name, one thing is clear now and forever…all of Essequibo belongs to all of Guyana, and that is the way it will remain,” President Ali said to loud applause.

He further criticised Venezuela for violating international law and rejected the legitimacy of Venezuelan military and electoral activities in Essequibo.

“In Essequibo, physically joined by thousands across our country, in love, unity, and in one collective voice and spirit, we are demonstrating to all of the world that Essequibo belongs to Guyana. We are going to do everything to ensure that Essequibo will forever be part of our 83,000 square miles We have further informed Venezuela that Guyana will not bend. We will not bend. We shall not bend. We are stronger. We are stronger.” President Ali stated.

President Ali strongly condemned Venezuela’s continued defiance of international rulings, pointing out that their recent actions directly breach international law. He urged the Venezuelan authorities to focus on addressing criminal activities occurring within their borders, rather than pushing ahead with illegitimate electoral plans in Guyana’s sovereign territory.

The Head of State reaffirmed that Guyana would pursue every diplomatic and legal avenue to maintain peace and territorial integrity.

The event showcased a vibrant cultural display featuring dances, songs, poetry, calypso, and other performances that highlighted the rich heritage and unity of the nation in celebration of Independence.

The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers, regional officials, and other dignitaries. (By Raywattie Deonarine)