Opposition Leader, Robert Corbin speaking to supporters Thursday

The march started at the Square of the Revolution overlooking the presidential complex, and protestors, who were joined by religious leaders, made their way through several city streets.  At one time, tension levels rose when police attempted to stop the protest from entering Regent Street in the main shopping district.

“We have a government that is godless,” Corbin told supporters outside parliament building.  He added that the government has no respect for the constitution, since it has sought to ignore the pleadings of the opposition parties and the religious community to retract the bill.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) led by President Bharrat Jagdeo said casinos will be introduced to boost the tourism industry.  But Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Bahai groups have argued that casinos will bring drug-related crimes, money laundering and prostitution.

“For the last two weeks, the President and the PPP/C believe that they can do anything, anytime, anyhow without regard for the people of this country,” Corbin said.  According to the Opposition Leader, the government has misread the peace that existed after the elections as a ticket to ignore the views of social groups.

“There are many governments that felt they were above the law and others that felt they were above God... we have seen in the Philippines, Iran, Iraq and Georgia what happens when people have power in their hands,” Corbin stated.

The combined religious groups having failed to prevent the tabling of the bill will on Friday observe a national day of fasting and prayers, seeking divine intervention.

On Thursday night the groups were holding a candlelight vigil outside parliament, with an extensive church service planned for the St Andrews Kirk, located just across from parliament.

Police will take to the streets Friday for another planned protest by the opposition.