Dear Editor,
As the nation bids farewell to 2025, Guyanese both at home and in the Diaspora will waltz to the famous Scottish ballad “Auld Lang Syne” which means for “Old Times Sake.” Composed in 1799, the ballad became a staple at Scottish New Year’s celebrations and later became popular in the United States, Canada, Guyana and the Western world. While many are hoping that the New Year will be prosperous and peaceful, there are some with a less positive outlook for 2026. Many will make New Year resolutions, but as the norm, most of the resolutions will be quickly forgotten.
It is the wish of many that 2026 would bring renewed hope to all, lift the spirits of those battling depression, alcohol and substance abuse and hopelessness. It should be the beginning of a new era to rebuild and unify the nation, end domestic violence against women and the sexual abuse, molestation and trafficking of children and respect for the rights of all in society, irrespective of their socio-economic status. The New Year should be of tremendous significance for the country and people of Guyana with its massive oil wealth and its 60th year of independence, which is the heart of the nation’s consciousness, heritage, identity and destiny.
The New Year should be the beginning of a new period for Guyana. It should be a year for introspection, healing, cooperation and atonement by all, but especially our leaders, the eradication of crime, poverty, homelessness, the building of a robust economy, and improving the lives of the poor. We must unite and strive for equality and justice for all and accelerate progress towards the realization of the goal of a better life for all.
We take this opportunity to extend a happy New Year to the government, especially President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the Cabinet, the opposition, the media outlets, and to all Guyanese near and far. And remember, the best gift for the New Year is honesty and kindness .Happy New Year to my fellow Guyanese.