Republic Day Celebrated With Parade And Festivities In Roxborough
Republic Day was celebrated in grand style in Roxborough, with Tobagonians turning out for a packed day of activities to mark the nation’s 50th anniversary as a Republic.
After presiding over the military parade through the streets of Roxborough, THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine urged citizens to view Republic Day as an idea that guides how the nation should be developed.
« It is the belief that the country belongs to its citizens and not to a monarch, not to a privileged few, but to everyone, not any particular race, class, island or family, but to everyone. »
With that comes a responsibility.
That responsibility, according to the Area Representative for Roxborough/Argyle, Orlando Kerr, relates to how society develops and how the example is set for future generations.
« We cannot demand punctuality from children while adults accept lateness. We cannot demand integrity from public officials while tolerating dishonesty when it benefits us. We cannot build excellence without personal responsibility. »
Meanwhile, a representative of the Prime Minister, Ashworth Jack, called on citizens to embrace the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.
« We want a society in which differences of opinion do not make us enemies. And we want a Trinidad and Tobago that is able to develop its enormous potential and make the fullest contribution to our nation’s progress. »
Reflecting on the nation’s 50 years as a Republic, Member of Parliament for Tobago East, David Thomas, stated that the country has already achieved greatness.
« It speaks to us being a sovereign state. It speaks to us having our own identity. It speaks to us being established as a nation, and that for me means much. It speaks to our resilience and our growth. »
The celebrations continued throughout the day with a regatta in Roxborough Bay, cultural performances and family activities, before culminating in a fireworks display.
