President Mohamed Irfaan Ali has called on Guyanese to embrace faith, compassion and unity as the country enters a critical new phase of national development marked by rapid economic growth and transformation.

Speaking at the Sunrise Glorification Service in observance of Guyana’s 60th Independence Diamond Jubilee on Monday, the President said Guyana’s future success must be measured by justice, equality and the spiritual strength of its people.

Addressing religious leaders, members of the judiciary, government officials and citizens gathered for the service, President Ali said the nation’s progress must be rooted in action, unity and shared responsibility.

“We are doing the work, and we will do the work that is necessary to take this country forward, upward, together in love and in unity. We believe that all of us in this country are ready to back every word with action, as faith without work is dead,” the president said.

The Head of State reflected extensively on the teachings of Islam, Christianity and Hinduism, noting that all three religions recognise life as a journey that unfolds in stages marked by learning, responsibility, wisdom and spiritual reflection.

Drawing parallels between human development and nation building, President Ali said countries also evolve through phases of struggle, growth and maturity.

“No country is born fully formed or fully developed. Societies develop gradually. Nations learn, mature, and seek higher purpose, just as individuals do. What we are doing here this morning is showing compassion, true honor, respect, dignity and love for each other and each other’s faith,” he stated.

President Ali also underscored the importance of religious institutions in shaping society, describing churches, temples and mosques as essential pillars in guiding young people and strengthening communities.

He argued that faith must remain central to Guyana’s development journey.

Recognising the magnitude of the country attaining 60 years as an independent nation, President Ali traced Guyana’s history through colonialism, independence and nation building, while noting the hardships endured through slavery, indentureship, division and economic struggles.

He said the country now stands at a defining moment fueled by unprecedented economic opportunities but warned that prosperity alone does not guarantee fairness or national progress.

“A nation can become richer without becoming fairer. Buildings can rise while communities remain broken. An economy can expand while inequality deepens,” President Ali cautioned.

He said Guyana is now being tested on how it manages its resources and whether development can benefit citizens across every region and community.

“Can we transform wealth into opportunity for all? Can we build unity across race, religion and class? Can we create institutions that serve freedom, justice and our people’s need? The answer is a resounding yes. Yes, we can, we will, and we are doing,” he declared.

President Ali urged citizens to pursue a higher national purpose centered on justice, peace, compassion and dignity, while calling for continued unity among Guyanese regardless of faith or background.

“The journey of Guyana is therefore not finished. We are still evolving. We are still becoming. May we grow not only in wealth but in wisdom, in faith. May we rise not only in income but in justice. May we advance not only in power but in compassion,” he said.