Washington: Indian-American Yashpaul Soi has been awarded with one of the highest civilian honours of Guyana in recognition of his role in strengthening the democracy in this country. The award was presented to Soi, who is based in New York, by Guyanese Indian-origin President Bharat Jagdeo at a special ceremony in the countries capital Georgetown early this month. Soi, an eminent Indian-American community leader and one of the promoters of Bollywood in the US, was presented the award for his outstanding role in the struggle for free and fair elections and development of Guyana and generally contributing to the national interests of that country.
Previously Jimmy Carter was honoured by Guyana, also for his role in the restoration of democracy in the country. Along with Soi, four other non-resident Guyanese were presented with the award - Pandit Ramlall, Ramesh Kalicharran, both settled in New York, and scientist Suresh Narine of Toronto. "Soi, who is an Indian national, and Kalicharran and Pandit Ramlall were very much involved in the struggle to restore democracy, having played an important role during the difficult years in helping the founder of the People's Progressive Party Cheddi Jagan in the struggle," Jagdeo said at the awards ceremony. "These are very special people and I wanted to make sure that their contributions are recognized," he said. "To be recognized with this special award, at this special ceremony in this way by the President and this beautiful nation is a very humbling experience," Soi said.
Previously Jimmy Carter was honoured by Guyana, also for his role in the restoration of democracy in the country. Along with Soi, four other non-resident Guyanese were presented with the award - Pandit Ramlall, Ramesh Kalicharran, both settled in New York, and scientist Suresh Narine of Toronto. "Soi, who is an Indian national, and Kalicharran and Pandit Ramlall were very much involved in the struggle to restore democracy, having played an important role during the difficult years in helping the founder of the People's Progressive Party Cheddi Jagan in the struggle," Jagdeo said at the awards ceremony. "These are very special people and I wanted to make sure that their contributions are recognized," he said. "To be recognized with this special award, at this special ceremony in this way by the President and this beautiful nation is a very humbling experience," Soi said.