– and Regrets by Alfen
This is the second instalment of a miniature “series” wherein I recall personal remembrances of pre- and post-May 1966 – and of May 1966 itself of course.
Those of us over sixty, seventy are in a serious, proud, fortunate minority. Do you realise that nearly three-quarters of today’s Guyanese population was not around in May 1966? So I’m happy to read and hear from those who were already adult in 1966. Of course, whilst some of us tend to be factual others might be excused for “colouring” or embellishing the memories a bit. According to personal political, even cultural perspectives.
David A. Granger reflected on Independence and National Defence ten years ago as the 40th Anniversary was observed. He wrote: “Independence brought with it responsibility for defence and foreign affairs, among other things. The Guyana Independence Act 1966, therefore, was a significant departure from the colonial constitution under which the British-appointed Governor had exclusive and explicit executive authority for these
matters. In a free state, Guyanese-elected representatives would have that authority.
