Thousands of Guyanese turned out on Sunday for the inauguration of President Irfaan Ali, gathering first at State House for the swearing-in ceremony before spilling onto the Kingston seawall for a cultural show and brunch that doubled as a celebration of national unity.
Ali, who secured a second term in the Sept. 1 elections, took the oath of office before national and regional leaders and diplomats. But most of those attending the ceremony were ordinary Guyanese from all walks of life and from all corners of the country.
At the Kingston Esplanade, traditional dancers drummers performed against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, while food stalls served up local fare from curry to cookup. Many sat on the beach, as if in picnic mode.
The event was perhaps the first demonstration by the President that the government must be “seen, heard and felt” in every part of the country.
The oath of office was administered by the acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Roxane George, before thousands of people – from Essequibo to Berbice, Linden to the hinterland – sitting or standing on the lawns of State House, the official residence of the First Family.
The President opened his speech with thanks to election workers, security personnel, and observers whose efforts had ensured a “smooth, fair and well managed” democratic process.
He underscored his pledge to build an inclusive administration, saying “One Guyana is not a slogan” and promising to represent even those who did not vote for him.
“To those who have not supported me, know that I am your President too,” he said.
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