Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell delivered the feature address to mark Grenada’s 44th Anniversary of Independence, but with General Elections looming on the horizon, the Political Leader of the New National Party “NNP” grasped the opportunity to urge Grenadians to be part of the electoral process.

“We must also be prepared to carry out our civic responsibilities in just over a month, to ensure that our constitutional right to participate in our democracy is taken seriously,” he said.

The announcement of the country’s General Election which takes place on March 13th was met with mixed emotions by the Grenadian people because of the history of March 13th.

A Revolutionary period that saw the leadership of former Prime Minister Sir Eric Matthew Gairy fall and power handed over to former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop.

Dr. Mitchell called for the remembrance of all those who joined Sir Eric in the struggle for Grenada’s freedom and social progress saying, “Those of us here on this Grenada’s 44th, must take this country forward with the commitment and determination of those gone before; but we must also take it forward; and as we celebrate; we also remember. The colour of the skies might have changed from red to blue; and the force of our governance comes not from bullets but ballots; but the dreams that gave rise to past struggles still endure.”

With his mind on the country’s election, which will determine if his stint in government continues or the beginning of the end of his political demise Mr. Mitchell told scores of Grenadians attending the celebrations at the National Cricket Stadium that every eligible citizen should, “to the fullest extent of those rights, engage his or her universal right of suffrage, so as to determine and influence our path to continued prosperity and progress.

“We cannot go backwards now, ladies and gentlemen. We must stay the course, for the future beckons.

“We must take this country forward in unity of purpose, patriotism, sacrifice, hard work, and with a vision for its sustainability,” he said.

With a snide comment meant for at least one opposing political party, Dr. Mitchell told the voting population “avoids risking this once again successful experiment on speculations, promises and innuendos and character assassinations.

“Instead, we must celebrate the gains we have made and work toward consolidating them”.

Dr. Mitchell also took the opportunity to call on political opponents to join the social compact among the Churches, Trade Unions, Business community, Non-governmental organizations and civil society.

He told the gathering that he credits the grouping for the successful implementation and completion of the three-year Homegrown Programme.

“This is why today, we call on them to commit publicly to be part of the social compact after the next election, and to help to deepen and expand it.”

This year’s Independence Celebrations which was once again changed from the morning to the evening time featured a cultural aspect coined the “This is Home” Package.

A large variety of entertainers of various genres entertained patrons before ten minutes of fireworks lit the skies.

Products of all range, quality, colour and taste were exhibited on Independence Day.

From all indications both locals and visitors were treating themselves, some openly expressing their delight.

Within the walls of the Stadium, Grenadians and visitors flocked the various stalls to get the treats Grenada is known for.

Jams and jellies, cocktails, drinks, food and creative crafts gave the inside of the building a splendor of colours and mouth watering aroma pulling perspective buyers to partake.

The release of 44 balloons marked the country’s 44th Anniversary of Independence this year, held under the theme “One People, One Country, Our Responsibility.”