Goodwill messages for President Jagdeo
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo took up office yesterday amid more goodwill messages and support. He was sworn in Wednesday following the resignation of Mrs. Janet Jagan and immediately extended a hand of friendship to all opposition parties. Working People's Alliance (WPA) Parliamentarian, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine responded saying he hoped the new President would follow a path "that will lead to a genuine multi-party system". In a letter to Mr. Jagdeo, released to the media yesterday, Roopnaraine noted reservations about the way the President was appointed but said he attended the swearing-in as "proof that I am attempting on this occasion to put the country before our own preferences." He said the "shift of generations (in the presidency) that has taken place is large enough for celebration." "For the first time there is a head of government who comes without the baggage of the middle fifties when the national movement split, and the sixties when tragic events took place in which you could have no responsibility, direct or indirect, and cannot even be suspected of involvement", Roopnaraine said. "Despite the fact that things remain very much as they were, my hope is that you, in your capacity as the foremost government leader, will follow a path that will lead to a genuine multi-party system, in which each interest feels itself included with its dignity fully recognised and respected," Roopnaraine said. He added: "In the name of the party I represent, I shall be pursuing such a course will all the energy and resources at my command. The challenges ahead are enormous, as are the opportunities. "I am hopeful that we will rise to them and begin the painstaking work of healing our troubled nation." Roopnaraine said Mr. Jagdeo was assuming the highest office in the land at a time of uncertainty about the future of the country. Jamaica Prime Minister, Mr. P.J. Patterson, in a message of congratulations, said he looks forward to meeting Mr. Jagdeo at a session of Caribbean Community leaders in October. "Guyana has always provided sterling support in the process of regional integration and I feel sure that under your leadership it will continue to do so", Mr. Patterson said. The management of Guyana Stockfeeds Incorporated congratulated Mr. Jagdeo on a most deserving appointment. "Your exceptional insight into economic issues and impressive record in leading the financial management of Guyana have made you the best choice for the highest office in our land," the firm said in a statement signed by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Robert Badal. Another goodwill message came from Managing Director of Iramco (Guyana) Limited, Mr. K.A. Ramjohn. "I know as any head of state, you will be faced with many difficulties, but be assured and comforted by the fact that we are behind you, in our every wish for success," he said. The President and members of the Anjuman Hifazatul Islam and its youth arm, the West Demerara MYO, also offered congratulations. "Your appointment...comes with a great deal of confidence and hope, and we pray that you will be successful in your efforts at uniting this nation, and creating a nation where our people will build their future," the body said in a statement. The Texas Ohio Energy firm, with investments in Linden, said it was enthusiastic about the future with President Jagdeo's hands at the helm of Guyana. "The ability and willingness that you've exhibited in fulfilling your duties as Finance Minister, to make hard decisions, is a trait much needed in a developing economy and society," the firm said. It added: "The actions you have taken in the past should put to rest any racial fears that one could have, and the youth of the country must be feeling euphoric that hope has been reborn." President Jagdeo assumed duties at the Office of the President yesterday with a series of meetings. He met Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Major General Joe Singh, Police Commissioner Laurie Lewis, members of staff of the Office of the President and related government departments.
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