Leader of the PNCR, Chairman of APNU and Leader of the Opposition, David Granger, has had to field questions recently about the effectiveness of the opposition which together control a majority by one of the seats in the National Assembly. Challenges have also come from within the PNCR to Mr Granger’s leadership by two formidable opponents, Carl Greenidge first and then Aubrey Norton. The clumsy handling of those challenges, particularly the most recent earlier this year, last left a degree of bitterness which is still being felt.
David Granger has always been a political animal but never served in a leadership position until his elevation, first as presidential candidate, then as party leader. His career in the military has always, or mostly, been related to the political, but this did not make for overt political leadership.
Mr Granger rose steadily within the ranks of the military. However, when Burnham died unexpectedly he lost favour. It is not known whether he was part of the left that Hoyte decimated or whether Hoyte was not favourably disposed to him, but his military career stalled and he eventually retired. In the meantime he acquired higher qualifications in political science at the University of Guyana under the supervision of Henry Jeffrey a sometime critic, along with classmate, Hydar Ally, who writes in support of the government. He also published a public affairs journal, Guyana Review.
After the PNCR lost support at the 2006 elections to the AFC and Robert Corbin’s leadership came under severe challenge, the latter called upon David Granger to rescue him and Granger obliged.