PYO pays tribute to ‘Freedom Martyrs’
Guyana Chronicle
July 16, 2003
The Progressive Youth Organization (PYO), youth arm of the PPP, is observing the death anniversaries of three of its freedom heroes - Michael Forde, Bholanauth Parmanand and Jagan Ramessar.
Today marks the 30th death anniversaries of Parmanand and Ramessar, who are known as “the Ballot Box Martyrs.” They were shot to death by armed PNC agents while peacefully protesting the illegal removal of ballot boxes from the No. 63 Primary School (the place of poll) on July 16th, 1973.
“Parmanand and Ramessar were defending the sanctity of the ballot and the right to have the votes counted at the place of poll,” the PYO said in a statement yesterday. “The 1973 elections turned out to be one of the most “crooked” and rigged elections in Guyana’s history.”
Adds the statement:
Their deaths were not in vain. It led to more young people and Guyanese, under the banner of the PPP, stepping up the struggle for democracy and an end to rigged elections. Guyana eventually won this victory when the first free and fair elections, in the country’s post-Independence history, were held on October 5th,1992. Democracy was restored and is still growing.
In their memory, several activities, which include a wreath-laying ceremony at their graveside- No. 66 Village tomorrow and a public rally on Sunday afternoon, have been organized.
Michael Forde was killed on July 17th, 1964 while removing an incendiary device planted, by suspected opposition terrorist agents, below Freedom House, Robb Street. His brave act saved the entire leadership of the Party, which was at time meeting upstairs.
Today, the bookshop, from which he removed the explosive device, bears his name-the Michael Forde Bookshop. Forde was a member of the PYO and is remembered for his unswerving loyalty and commitment to his party and country.
As part of the annual tribute, the PYO has organized a wreath-laying ceremony at his graveside at Le Repentir Cemetery tomorrow morning and a night of reflection at Freedom House.
The PYO calls on all Guyanese, especially young people, to pay attention to the ultimate sacrifice made by these martyrs for democracy. A fitting tribute would be a rededication to protecting our democratic gains and ensuring continued progress in the country.
All Guyanese must be inspired by their bravery and firm commitment winning freedom for our people.