President Ali announces plans to support religious leaders

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced that the government is exploring ways to support the development of pastors, pandits, and imams in Guyana.

He made the statement on Wednesday while speaking at the commissioning of South America’s largest Lord Shiva statue at the Badrinaath Ashram on the Essequibo Coast.

The towering structure, called the Bhagwan Shiva Murti, was founded by Pandit Munesh Dhanraih.

“We may have to collaborate with religious leaders and identify institutions through which we can support their development, and we are committed to doing that because faith and spirituality are essential pillars of a grounded nation,” he emphasised.

He explained that the goal is to ensure that Guyana’s religious tapestry remains rich and multifaceted.

The president also highlighted the significance of the Aashram and the collective effort behind its establishment.

He noted that the Ashram reinforces a sense of belonging and connection, symbolising deeper values such as faith, consciousness, and reconnection with one’s heritage.

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Mark Phillips with devotees at the event on Wednesday