Guyana marked International Labour Day on Friday with parades in Georgetown led by the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), as union leaders celebrated workers’ contributions while highlighting the challenges they face.
Under bright sunshine, the FITUG procession moved through the capital to the National Park, drawing a large turnout of workers and families. Escorted by police, participants marched in red attire and carried national colours, underscoring a message of unity and solidarity.
At the National Park, FITUG President Carvil Duncan called for greater investment in education and skills development for young people. He said trade unions must play a stronger role in helping workers improve their conditions, adding that the federation aims to deliver on its commitments over the coming year.
Similarly, FITUG General Secretary Dawchan Nagasar described May Day as both a celebration and a moment of reflection, noting that workers remain the backbone of society.
In a separate observance, the GTUC held its own Labour Day rally at the Guyana Local Government Officers’ Union, where speakers focused on the rising cost of living and its impact on households.
Coretta McDonald, President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union, said many workers continue to live from paycheck to paycheck. She called for greater fairness in wages and expanded access to opportunities, while urging that more direct benefits reach citizens amid ongoing economic pressures.
Meanwhile, Terrence Campbell of A Partnership for National Unity said global developments, including geopolitical conflicts, are driving up fuel prices, which could in turn increase the cost of goods and services. He warned that this would place additional strain on working families and called for greater support for the country’s workers.
Earlier, in a Labour Day message, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali said that as Guyana celebrates its 60th anniversary of independence, it is fitting to recognise the role of the working class in both the struggle for and attainment of political freedom. He said workers’ sacrifices helped secure improved conditions and fundamental rights.
