One Guyana? Prove it- we deserve more than lip service; we deserve action, respect, inclusion

As we celebrated Phagwah a few days ago, the joyous festival of colours, unity, and renewal, I can not help but reflect on a glaring omission this year. For the first time in recent memory, there was no Phagwah program held at State House, an event that has traditionally been part of the national calendar. This absence did not go unnoticed, and I hope it did not escape the attention of my fellow Hindus.

President Irfaan Ali, the self-proclaimed leader of “One Guyana,” chose not to host this annual celebration at the official residence of the head of state. While I understand that Ramadan has commenced and respect the President’s right to observe his faith as a Muslim, it is also true that leadership demands impartiality and inclusivity, especially when one publicly champions the idea of national unity at every turn.

If “One Guyana” is truly the vision, then all citizens, of all faiths, should feel seen, respected, and valued, not only in speeches but in meaningful actions. The deliberate choice to forego this year’s Phagwah program at State House suggests otherwise. It reveals a lack of genuine commitment to inclusivity and a dismissive attitude towards the Hindu community.

Let us be honest. We have been marginalised and sidelined. Year after year, we witness grand political posturing when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) suddenly remembers the power of our votes. They will soon come again with promises, smiles, and cultural pandering, but we must not forget the disrespect we are shown when it truly matters.

I urge my Hindu community, do not remain silent any longer. We have been too quiet, too tolerant, and too accepting of symbolic gestures that lack substance. We must demand accountability, demand respect, and demand equal recognition in the public and political spaces of this country. Let this year be the turning point.

When the elections come, let us vote wisely and with discernment. Let us ensure that no government, no matter the party or leader, can take our support for granted. Our silence has enabled marginalisation, now is the time to speak, to act, and to stand united.

One Guyana? Prove it. We deserve more than lip service. We deserve action, respect, and true inclusion.