Former Alliance for Change (AFC) Chairman Nigel Hughes says his presence at a recent meeting at Andyville, in Region Ten, does not represent a return to active politics or campaigning for the APNU+AFC coalition.
“Not at all,” Hughes said, when asked by Stabroek News if he had reentered politics or was endorsing a political party.
Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson recently posted a photo of Hughes speaking at the meeting on his Facebook page.
“Was honored to have my senior Nigel Hughes on the platform with me this evening. We were back were[sic] it all started – Prostville and Andyville, Region 10, Nigel introduced me to these communities over 10 years ago, at that time they had no lights or water – we delivered on our promises, the meeting was powered by lights instead by this government,” he stated.
“So it was only right that the big guy be there – as usual he delivered a master speech, the best part being – “they are saying I can’t add, but we are going to elections in March 2020 instead of March 2019 – do the Maths!” Nigel advised the residents that they have to be prepared for the development that will come starting March 3. Thank you bro!” he added.
Hughes, however, explained that not only are the communities of Prostville and Andyville and by extension Region Ten “dear” to his heart but that Patterson was an old friend and he was giving him the support for a job well done.
Hughes resigned from the post of Chairman of the AFC, the junior partner in the coalition government, in April, 2016.
Several persons reacted to Patterson’s post, believing it to mark a return to politics for Hughes. Some were critical, while others were welcoming of the prospect of his return.
“Maybe we should ask nigel hughes how it is that he said he retired from politics prior to the signing of the EXXON PSA in 2016 and there was no conflict of interest but here he is on a PNC platform in 2020 mocking the people of guyana with his fancy math… shameful,” Don Singh wrote.
“I was under the impression that Mr. Hughes was finished with politics,” Vendant Persaud said, while Anthony Sarjoo added, “I tought (sic) Nigel got out of politics what shame 32 is greater than 33”.
To Persaud’s comment, Lamont Parker responded, “like you running scared already.”
Others indicated that they would welcome Hughes’ return to politics. “I love that he has chosen to return!!! Let us now see all the demons that his return will cause to be unsettled… oh yeah and the unending litany bout maths….. got my popcorn … cause I know this is going to be epic,” Anja Beresford said.
