As Guyana approaches the September 1 general and regional elections, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, has reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens.
Speaking to a gathering of party supporters at Better Hope Market Square on Wednesday evening, Minister Persaud highlighted the administration’s accomplishments under President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s leadership and shared an optimistic vision for the country’s future.
Recounting the party’s roots, Minister Persaud reminded attendees that the PPP/C, established in 1950 and led by the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, has always been “a pro-poor, people-centered, and a working-class” party. He contrasted the current administration’s track record with the hardships faced under previous opposition-led governments, highlighting the transformation Guyana has experienced in recent years.
Reflecting on the PPP/C’s 2020 manifesto, the minister emphasized that the party has fulfilled its promises—often surpassing expectations. He highlighted several key achievements: the reintroduction of the education cash grant for children in both public and private schools; the distribution of more than 50,000 house lots; the creation of around 60,000 jobs; the completion of over 29 miles of new highways and thousands of community roads; and a one-time $100,000 cash grant for every Guyanese adult.
Congratulating the crowd for their role in Guyana’s progress, Minister Persaud stated: “You may not realize that, but each and every one of you played a part in the development of this country.”
Looking ahead, the minister outlined several priorities for the next five years. These include making electricity and cooking gas more affordable, significantly improving infrastructure, and continuing wage and salary increases for public servants, joint services members, and pensioners. He also pledged additional public assistance, more GOAL scholarships, expanding farmland by over 100,000 acres, and further investing in agro-processing hubs.
Regarding local concerns, Minister Persaud acknowledged that garbage collection remains a significant issue in many communities. To address this, the government has purchased 50 garbage trucks to be distributed among Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) nationwide. Additionally, contracts will soon be awarded for constructing concrete drains in every community.
Minister Persaud also announced a significant streetlight initiative, stating: “We have already secured more than 100,000 streetlights because we want to light up Guyana come September 1st, 2025.”
Emphasizing the PPP/C’s credibility and steady leadership, the minister stated, “Anywhere in Guyana, we can stand and defend our track record. We have a President in Irfaan Ali as a competent and recognized leader. Democracy and freedom will prevail.”