SALUTATIONS

The General and Regional Elections of 2011 have been concluded. The results have been declared. 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.

I wish to therefore congratulate my Guyanese brothers and sisters from all walks of life, who participated in this latest renewal of our democracy, for playing their part in this vital national process! Regardless of the results we are all winners – Guyana and all the people of Guyana!

That I have been elected to become your President is a most humbling experience. I feel deeply honored 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.

Allow me to express my gratitude, on behalf of the nation to the outgoing President of Guyana Cde Bharrat Jagdeo, our youngest and longest serving President, so far, for his exemplary service to the people of Guyana. Our nation is indebted to his phenomenal work and dedication during his tenure in office. I thank you comrade.

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.

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.

Indeed, because of the projected make-up of the parliament following these elections, this is the only way forward. I do not anticipate that this process will be easy but I am prepared to work beyond the difficulties to ensure that our country does not regress. 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.

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.

Shortly after the announcement of the elections results the leaders of the Parties in Parliament had a brief discussion. 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.

At this time I wish to record my profound thanks to my comrades in the PPP/C who, at all levels, worked hard during these elections. 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.

Today I recall my parents Sam Ramotar and Olive Constantine of Caria Cara who instilled in my life values which have helped to guide me through the years.

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.

Fellow Guyanese, 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. Let us all use this opportunity, each and every one of us from whatever, political, social or religious background we may belong, to work towards making the lives of each Guyanese better and the country as a whole a place we can be proud to call home.

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.

Fellow Guyanese, I pledge to use all the energy and influence of my Office, as President of Guyana, 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.

Long live the people of the Republic of Guyana!

State House- December 3, 2011
"We will work to root out corruption in our society, and to create more opportunities for our people to realize their fullest potential. At the same time, one of the priorities as a nation must always be the building of a safe and cohesive society, based on tolerance, understanding and solidarity and, on the rule of law.