David Patterson, Chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), has come under fire following comments suggesting that the government’s recently introduced $100,000 cash grant will be wasted on personal luxuries like hair, nails, and parties. Patterson made these remarks during an AFC meeting in New Amsterdam, Berbice, addressing a predominantly Afro-Guyanese audience.
In his speech, Patterson expressed concerns that some cash grant recipients would misuse the funds despite the rising cost of living. He argued that many would spend the money frivolously during the holiday season instead of alleviating financial burdens. He said, “In December, you will take that whole $100,000 and go and spend it at a shop owned by somebody who has been empowered to keep you where you are.”
Patterson went on to suggest that the grant would likely be squandered, particularly among young people. He added, “They will come in January and February for the youths. They will bring Vybz Kartel, the World Boss, and the people that have been complaining and saying how hard things will take that same 100,000, new hair, new nails.”
These remarks quickly sparked outrage across social media, with many accusing the former Minister of Public Infrastructure of being out of touch with the realities faced by ordinary citizens. His critics argued that Patterson’s comments were patronizing and painted a generalized, unfair picture of how people would choose to spend their money.
A social media user added, “You can’t say there isn’t nothing wrong with it and then talk bad about it. Also, that money is going to the hairdressers and the people who do nails, so it’s going back into business. He needs to mind his business because it’s not his money.”
Another commentator offered a particularly sharp critique, saying, why didn’t they give each household a million or any money when they were in government? No, they were busy with themselves. Now the PPP is doing for us, the citizens of Guyana, and they get crap to talk. All he got to do is buy wig for himself if that’s what bothering him.”
Some critics also allegedly brought up Patterson’s personal history during his time in government. Specifically, his alleged misuse of funds from the Demerara Harbour Bridge Company resurfaced. Reports allegedly indicate that Patterson received over $500,000 in gold jewellery and other gifts totaling more than $6.7 million from various government agencies—an accusation he has consistently denied. However, the scandal has allegedly followed him throughout his political career.
One commenter referenced this by saying, “Hear who’s talking. You should be ashamed to talk. What did you do in the five years you were there? Take Demerara Harbour Bridge money and allegedly buy jewellery for yourself.”
The $100,000 cash grant, introduced by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government, is part of a broader initiative to help citizens cope with the rising cost of living. While many have praised the grant as a timely relief measure, Patterson’s comments have reignited a debate over the role of politicians in influencing how much financial aid should be used.
One citizen summarised many views in response to Patterson’s criticism and said, “Why worry about what the Guyanese will be doing with the $100k? Allow the Guyanese people to spend their money. Not everyone is the same, and many will spend it wisely as well.”
David Patterson must first focus on putting his own party (AFC) in order before attempting to criticise the PPP party. His starting point should be a strong public condemnation of the rigging and irregularities of the 2020 general elections.
Patterson could take a valuable lesson from his former colleague Dominic Gaskin, a former Cabinet minister and the son-in-law of former PNC/AFC President David Granger, who boldly spoke out against the rigging of the general election in 2020. The citizens of Guyana regard Mr. Dominic Gaskin as a man of honour and integrity.
Patterson’s political strategy depends heavily on Afro-Guyanese voters, who represent a minority demographic in Guyana. Aubrey Norton should challenge Patterson to demonstrate his party’s support base, as it’s evident that the AFC lacks dedicated, lifelong supporters. Instead, Patterson and his ally Nigel Hughes attempt to draw in PNC’s long-standing supporters, targeting those loyal to Aubrey Norton’s PNC party.
Hughes and Patterson think Aubrey Norton is unpopular among PNC supporters. However, Aubrey Norton should make it clear that the AFC’s approach is unwelcome, especially since these same voters are largely unresponsive to the AFC’s outreach.
Recently, at a meeting in New York and Berbice, only the Afro-Guyanese attended the AFC meetings, and no other Guyanese community members were bothered to be present at their gatherings.
The core issue with Patterson and Hughes is that the AFC lacks appeal beyond a narrow demographic. The party has failed to resonate with Indo-Guyanese, Amerindians, mixed-race individuals, and even disillusioned PNC supporters, who view the AFC as lacking a genuine voter base and purpose.
Ultimately, Norton will need to address the AFC’s tactics and urge lifelong PNC voters to ignore the AFC’s misguided outreach efforts. This internal battle is essential to prevent the AFC from siphoning off loyal PNC supporters through what is perceived as an opportunistic attempt at relevance.