Fellow citizens of Georgetown and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Happy 59th Independence Anniversary!
Today, Monday, May 26, 2025, as we, Guyanese, proudly celebrate the 59th anniversary of our independence, we do so with hearts full of gratitude, reflection, and unyielding determination. Georgetown—the capital of this very blessed land—joins the nation in saluting the sacrifices of our forebears, the strength of our people, and the unwavering spirit of our republic.
For us, independence is more than a date on the calendar; it is a sacred reminder of our long and treacherous journey from colonial rule to sovereignty, from division to unity, from struggle to progress. It is the story of a resilient people, forged in adversity, yet unbreakable in hope and aspiration.
Still, on this solemn and sacred occasion, we, all of us, must also raise our voices in firm condemnation of a deeply troubling and unlawful act. The recent move by the Government of Venezuela to create tensions within our society and the region, to attempt to hold a sham election to appoint a so-called “governor” of Guyana’s Essequibo region is a blatant and provocative violation of international law, and an affront to our sovereignty.
Let there be no doubt: Essequibo is Guyana. Every inch of its soil, every clear and murky river that runs through it, every community that thrives within it—is part of this beloved nation. Georgetown stands resolute in defense of our territorial integrity. We, the elected stewards of this capital city, call upon all Guyanese—at home and abroad—to stand united and vigilant. The world must see that Guyana is indivisible, and no illegal decree or foreign pretension can change that truth.
Guyanese, as we reflect on our national journey and recommit ourselves to the path ahead, we must also confront the challenges within our society that demand justice, accountability, and compassion. In this moment of national introspection, the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown reiterate our unwavering belief and call for Justice for Adriana. Her life mattered. Her story must be told. And her family, like every citizen of this nation, deserves the truth. No stone must be left unturned. No silence will be accepted. Justice must—and will—be served.
On this 59th Independence Day, may we embrace our heritage with pride, defend our sovereignty with courage, and build our future with unity, dignity, and justice for all.
Long live Georgetown. Long live Essequibo. Long live the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
Happy Independence Day!
His Worship the Mayor
Mayor and City Council of Georgetown
May 26, 2025
