Government Axes Parade for Prayer Day, Pockets $2.6M

The government is poised to save an estimated $2.6 million by cancelling the annual Independence Day parade and fireworks display. The funding for the event, which was previously approved by the former People’s National Movement administration, will now be diverted to crime-fighting initiatives. The decision to cancel was primarily driven by security concerns amidst the ongoing State of Emergency. Instead of the usual festivities, a National Day of Prayer and Reflection will be observed.