February 13, 2005

Cheddi Jagan Jnr forms Unity Party

A new political party, headed by Dr Cheddi Jagan Jnr, has been formed and will contest the general elections scheduled for 2006.

Dr Jagan, son of former presidents (the late) Cheddi and Janet Jagan, founding members of the PPP, said in a press release yesterday that he had written to the Guyana Elections Commission to notify it of the formation of the party.

Included in the letter addressed to Chairman of the Elections Commission, Dr Steve Surujbally was a request for any general information from the commission to be sent to the Unity Party. It also said that the party looked forward for a pleasant relationship with Surujbally and his staff.

The party believes in the motto - 'A House Divided against Itself Cannot Stand', and has as its symbol a horse.

The party "is seeking to work with persons of all ethnic and religious persuasions in elevating Guyana to economic prosperity by making the private sector the real engine of growth." This should be constructed through a process of coalition, the release said.

In the near future, Unity Party officials will hold discussions with the Diplomatic Corps, other political groups, community leaders and civil society.

The party had received commitments of support from Guyanese in the US and in Guyana who would be willing to provide their time and resources.

Jagan and party officials have been out meeting residents in flood-hit communities, the release said.