Ali Says Independence Transcends ‘Mere Symbolism’

Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, Saint Lucia’s guest of honour as the Island celebrates its 45th independence anniversary, told a joint sitting of parliament Wednesday that independence was a journey beyond mere symbolism. “Independence, far from being a singular event confined to a specific date in history, is a dynamic and ongoing process,” Ali asserted. He explained that the process embodies the aspirations and ambitions of a nation. “Independence is a journey, marked not only by a solitary moment of achievement but by the continuous pursuit of development, progress, and self-determination,” the Guyana President noted. He explained that a nation’s independence indicated its liberation from foreign control. However, Ali declared that, more importantly, it also signifies unleashing its people’s boundless energy and potential. “Independence represented a call to action, a commitment to harnessing the collective will of the people. Independence in this sense, transcends mere symbolism. It is a living, breathing aspect of national life and propels us in our quest for a more just, equitable and prosperous future for and by the people,” he said. As Saint Lucia observed its 45th independence anniversary, Ali spoke of the importance of fortifying the ramparts of independence, working towards fashioning a united,...