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Guyana’s first president laid to rest at Seven Ponds

Guyana’s first president Arthur Chung was yesterday laid to rest at the Seven Ponds in the Botanical Gardens with full military honours just after noon, following a state funeral at the National Cultural Centre.

President Bharrat Jagdeo, government officials and members of the opposition attended the service which commenced around 10 am.

It was opened with a tribute from Haji Fazeel Ferouz, which was followed by religious prayers.

Statements were made by Jagdeo and Leader of the Opposition, Robert Corbin while national songs, rather than hymns, were sung.

Just before 12, Chung’s remains were transported to the Seven Ponds area. He was lowered into his final resting place around 12.10 pm, after the sounding of a full military salute.

Chung who was born in 1918 assumed office in March 1970, the same year that Guyana became a republic.
He served as president of Guyana until October 6, 1980.

Chung died last Tuesday at his Bel Air Springs residence of multiple medical complications. He had been in and out of hospital during the last few months. He was 90 years old.

Chung is survived by his wife, former first lady, Doreen Chung, two children, Diane and Raymond and five grandchildren.

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