PNC hoists flag at Square of the Revolution
Thousands flocked the Square of the Revolution on Tuesday for what is considered the annual alternative flag raising ceremony which has been staged by the opposition People's National Congress (PNC) in recent years. As the midnight hour approached on Tuesday there was a gospel rendition by Pelham Van Cooten followed by the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead to the chorus of "O Beautiful Guyana" sang by those assembled. As the flag was unfurled the first verse of the national anthem was sung and cheers rang out at the announcement that the hour was at hand. Just then a magnificent fireworks display by the Guyana Defence Force could be seen decorating the night sky some distance off to the north of the Square . Earlier the gathering which jammed the Square in every available spot heard a 30-minute address by PNC Leader Desmond Hoyte in which he stated that the responsibility for the country's development rested with all Guyanese. He said that his party is willing and able to ensure that the proud tradition of the midnight flag raising ceremony is kept alive. The state held a flag raising ceremony in the compound of Parliament Buildings yesterday morning. Hoyte acknowledged that the forthcoming elections were going to be a watershed one, as they would determine once and for all the destiny of the nation. He urged those gathered not to be lulled into a false sense of security by the ruling party's "gimmicks", but to be on their guard against things which would strive to further divide the country. He also called on them to buckle down to the serious business of national development. Crowds gathered from as early as 2000 hrs as a party atmosphere engulfed the 1763 Monument site where there were bountiful measures of music, food and drink. The festivities lasted well after the midnight hour while the young mingled with the old to enjoy the occasion. The official ceremony got underway at around 2200 hrs with the arrival of the PNC leader who was on hand to witness several performances by artistes during the cultural segment of the programme.
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