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August 2, 2024 marks the fourth anniversary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Party (PPP/C) government, so it is an excellent time to evaluate its tenure.
The past four years have been a period of significant transformation and turmoil, with the People’s Progressive Party/Communist Party navigating both political turmoil and a global pandemic.
As Secretary General Bharrat Jagdeo stated, the government’s achievements reflect its concerted efforts to deliver on its campaign promises and address the country’s pressing needs.
The PPP’s journey began with a five-month dispute over the 2020 election results, a period that tested the country’s democratic resilience. The PPP eventually came to power after allegations that the APNU+AFC government and its affiliates had attempted electoral fraud marred the process.
The transparency shown by the PPP/EC in releasing the poll statement and certified recount is crucial to uncovering the manipulation of the electoral process and validating their claims.
The subsequent investigation and ongoing trial of senior GECOM officials has highlighted the importance of maintaining electoral integrity, a lesson that has implications beyond Guyana, as Dr. Jagdeo highlighted by drawing a comparison with the current political situation in Venezuela.
The People’s Progressive Party/Communist Party faced daunting challenges when it came to power: the country was plagued by the epidemic, faced unemployment and overwhelmed medical facilities.
The government is to be commended for taking swift action to strengthen health infrastructure, secure vaccine supplies and respond to the crisis. Compared to many developed countries, Guyana has been relatively safe during the pandemic, thanks to the PPP/C’s effective crisis management and public health initiatives.
The People’s Progressive Party/BJP has achieved remarkable economic and social development during its time in office. Dr. Jagdeo asserted that more than 90% of the promises made in the government’s manifesto have been fulfilled, supported by a series of notable achievements.
The creation of 50,000 to 60,000 jobs provides much-needed economic relief, while the $90 billion increase in public sector disposable income reflects the government’s commitment to improving the financial well-being of citizens.
The provision of over 33,000 houses and government scholarships to 50,000 people demonstrates the high priority the country places on housing and education, two key areas of national development.
Doubling the pension, reinstating the ‘because we care’ cash grant and restoring the Joint Service Bonus highlight the Government’s efforts to support the most vulnerable and incentivise public services.
The abolition of more than 200 taxes and fees and the implementation of a comprehensive infrastructure plan (including 140 kilometers of four-lane roads and more than 400 bridges) demonstrate the government’s commitment to economic growth and improved public services.
Looking ahead, forward-looking policies in PPP/C, such as gas-to-power projects, are expected to reduce electricity costs and further boost the country’s economic prospects. The advancement of the 2030 Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development, aligning Guyana’s growth with global environmental goals.
In summary, the PPP/BJP government has made remarkable achievements in infrastructure, social welfare and economic growth during its four years in office.
Despite numerous challenges, including responding to a global pandemic and overcoming political instability, the Government has made significant progress in delivering on its manifesto commitments. As Guyana reflects on these achievements, it should now shift its focus to maintaining this momentum and addressing remaining challenges to ensure continued progress and prosperity for all Guyanese.
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