The event was yet another flag raising ceremony in the mining town, which was attended by former Lindener, Prime Minister, Sam Hinds who extended Republic greetings from President Bharrat Jagdeo, members of Cabinet and Government.

In his feature address which was preceded by his inspection of the Guard of Honour, a cultural presentation and the symbolic hoisting of the National Flag, the Prime Minister reflected on the pre-Republican era in Guyana's history, which he said was signified by a concerted fight by our foreparents for an end to slavery and indentureship.

He noted too that Mash Day signifies a celebration of achievements over the last year. Emphasising that today's generation has a challenge to work collectively for the steady prosperity of Guyana, Mr. Hinds said that this challenge has to be pursued in a rapidly changing world.

The Prime Minister posited that Guyana has been in the receiving end of change in the face of new threats to our customs, but he pointed to the new opportunities that often come with these changes.

"We should keep our eyes focussed on opportunities," said the Prime Minister, noting that in so doing "we can show that we can create a better Guyana."

Acknowledging that unemployment exists, and being a Republic nation requires that we work towards feeding, clothing and sheltering ourselves, the Prime Minister issued a call to the older generation to guide the youth of the nation towards achieving this end.

"We must make ourselves builders of Guyana," stated Mr. Hinds, adding that this will ensure that our needs are satisfied.

And in brief remarks, Regional Chairman of Region Ten, Mortimer Mingo urged all Guyana to seek to establish a truly Guyanese identity distinct from others, as we celebrate another year as a Republic nation.

Mingo said that the celebration must be coloured with a sense of individual responsibility, while the national celebration should serve to propel our individual roles to develop our communities and country.

All roads lead to the grand annual Mashramani float parade downtown Georgetown, where a strong Linden contingent mashed under the banner of the mining region.