President Dr Irfaan Ali is set to deliver a major presidential address this evening at 17:00h, during which he will outline his government’s strategic vision for Guyana’s economic and social advancement over the next five years. The address is expected to offer early insight into the priorities that will shape Budget 2026, which is scheduled to be laid before Parliament in January.
Senior Minister will present the upcoming national budget within the Office of the President, with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. He has already indicated that Budget 2026 will serve as the foundation for implementing the commitments outlined in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic 2025 election manifesto. According to Dr Singh, each budget during the new term will be designed to systematically fulfil the promises made to the electorate, with the 2026 budget setting the pace for delivery over the whole five-year period.
The PPP/C’s 2025–2030 manifesto sets out an ambitious development framework to position Guyana as a modern, globally competitive state. Branded under the theme “One Country, One People, One Future – Forward Together for a Better Guyana”, the plan includes significant investments in healthcare, housing, education, and national infrastructure. Key proposals include building 12 new hospitals, rolling out a nationwide Emergency Medical Services system, establishing a National Ambulance Authority, and acquiring land, air, and river ambulances. The government has also committed to building 40,000 new homes, establishing 100 additional schools, launching a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise Development Bank, setting up an anti-corruption unit, and strengthening initiatives for Indigenous communities.
Public infrastructure development remains a central pillar of the agenda, with a strong focus on transforming the country’s transport network to boost economic growth and improve daily life. The government plans to complete and expand major highways and bridges to enhance regional and international connectivity. Among the highlighted projects are continued upgrades to the Linden–Lethem and Linden–Soesdyke highways, new bridges at Kurupukari and Puruni, a four-lane highway along the East Bank Demerara to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, and expanded road networks across Essequibo, Berbice, and the East Coast Demerara. Plans also include the construction of a new Corentyne River Bridge in partnership with Suriname, as well as improvements to hinterland road systems across multiple regions to support farming, trade, and community development.
On the economic front, the PPP/C has pledged policies to increase disposable income and ease cost-of-living pressures. The party has reaffirmed its commitment to introducing no new taxes throughout the coming term, while also pursuing reductions in income, corporate, and vehicle-related taxes. Measures to support public sector workers include multi-year wage agreements, continued salary adjustments, and enhanced benefits. The government also plans to maintain low interest rates for housing, provide additional cash grants, and deliver targeted financial assistance to vulnerable groups.
Youth development is another key component of the five-year plan. The administration intends to expand access to technical and vocational training, promote entrepreneurship, and introduce targeted programs for at-risk youth. According to the government, these initiatives are designed to equip young Guyanese with the skills and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national progress and long-term wealth creation.
Overall, the presidential address is expected to set the tone for the next phase of Guyana’s development, outlining a comprehensive roadmap that integrates infrastructure expansion, social investment, and economic reform into a unified national vision.