Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, and his wife, Mignon Bowen-Phillips, joined the British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller on Satuday for a Service of Commemoration in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, at the St George’s Cathedral in Georgetown.
The Prime Minister, who is fulfilling the duties of the President, during his tribute, said that Guyana much like the rest of the world recognises the late Queen’s illustrious legacy and outstanding contributions to the world, and mourns her passing.
“Even in her absence, the countless lessons she has left behind and the indelible example she has set for diplomacy, discipline and wise leadership in the 70 years of her reign must be remembered and exemplified…Her Late Majesty, The Queen, will forever be remembered for her warmth, her dedication, her fervour and her wisdom.”
The acting Head of State was joined by the Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; other Cabinet Ministers; Government officials; members of the diplomatic community; members of civil society and members of the local British community.
President Dr Irfaan Ali has since proclaimed that Monday, September 19, would be a National Day of Mourning in sympathy and solidarity with the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth nations, over the Queen’s passing.
The long-serving British Monarch, who died last week Thursday, September 8, would be laid to rest on Monday following a state funeral.
According to the proclamation signed by the Guyanese leader, all authorities, boards, commissions, corporations, public agencies, Ministries and citizens are asked to fly the National Flag at half-mast.
Queen Elizabeth II, who died at the age of 96, reigned for 70 years. Besides the United Kingdom, she was also the Head of State of 15 other sovereign countries at the time of her death, including several CARICOM member states
