Coalition downplayed Enmore Martyrs’ observances since taking office

Dear Editor,
On June 16, 2020, we observed the 72nd anniversary of the Enmore Massacre which resulted in the gunning down of Harry, Lallabajie, Pooran, Dookie and Surujballi.
The five, who have become known as the Enmore Martyrs, are recognised by the State as national heroes. Since the late 1970s, following the construction of a monument in their honour at Enmore, activities are organised by the Government to recognise their heroism and contribution to the Guyanese people.

That tradition has remained practically uninterrupted all those years until this year. For the first time ever, we recognise that apart from messages from the now outgoing Minister of Social Cohesion and the outgoing Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, no activity was organised by the State.

Those tasked with organising the activities may well point to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we accept this is a factor, we contend, at the same time, that some activity, in a miniaturised form could have been held.
This is not beyond the realm of Government. Moreover, we are aware that an activity was planned and monies were expended to spruce up the Martyrs’ gravesite at the Le Repentir Cemetery. It begs the question of why whatever activity was planned was subsequently abandoned.

It is our sincere view, that the fact that there was even a lack of emphasis on the Martyrs’ commemoration is yet another confirmation of the coalition’s disdain for the sugar industry and the several and varied contributions of the industry’s workers, past and present.

We have recognised since the coalition took office, it has downplayed and watered-down the Martyrs’ observances to the point it became ritualistic and no effort was placed on organising a befitting programme.
Of course, the FITUG itself, a few years ago, was without rhyme or reason ostracised from the State’s activities though it had been participating for many years.

Yours faithfully,
Dawchan Nagasar
General Secretary
FITUG