Dear Editor,
In his recent statement, President Irfaan Ali proclaimed that his government has always been “about the people.” However, the reality on the ground tells a very different story. If this government were truly committed to the welfare of the Guyanese people, there are several glaring issues that would have already been addressed, and the hardships that citizens continue to face would not persist. If the government truly cared about the people, why do Guyanese still have to stand in long, disorganized lines just to receive their cash grants? This cumbersome process, is a clear indication that the administration is more interested in short-term, politically-motivated handouts rather than creating sustainable programs that provide real economic relief for all citizens. A government that truly cares about its people would ensure that such assistance is delivered seamlessly and without the humiliation of waiting in line for hours.
The promise to remove VAT on food items is still unfulfilled. Basic foodstuffs remain unaffordable for many Guyanese families, with the heavy burden of VAT still placed on their shoulders. If this government were genuinely focused on easing the financial strain of the average citizen, VAT on essential goods should have been eliminated long ago. Yet, it remains an obstacle that only deepens the economic hardship faced by the working class. Speaking of the working class, the government’s failure to abolish the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax is another glaring example of how the administration is not putting the needs of its citizens first. Working-class Guyanese continue to be taxed, often struggling to make ends meet while their hard-earned money is taken by the state. A government truly “about the people” would have taken meaningful steps to lighten the tax burden on those who are working tirelessly to provide for their families.
The situation is no better for pensioners, who have been repeatedly promised increases to their pensions. However, they are still waiting for the long-overdue 100% increase that would allow them to live with dignity in their golden years. Instead of fulfilling this promise, the government continues to ignore the plight of the elderly, leaving them to suffer on a meager income. A true people-centered government would prioritize these pensioners who spent their lives contributing to the country’s growth and development. In the case of Indigenous peoples, promises of development and better living conditions have gone largely unfulfilled. Indigenous communities continue to struggle with underdevelopment, poor infrastructure, and inadequate access to essential services. Their land rights and cultural heritage remain at risk, as the government fails to take decisive action to address their concerns. If President Ali’s administration were truly dedicated to the well-being of all Guyanese, it would have long ago implemented meaningful policies to uplift these communities and ensure their voices are heard and respected.
Lastly, the troubling issue of land disputes, particularly involving African Guyanese communities, remains unresolved. The continuing land loss and displacement of African Guyanese families point to an alarming disregard for the rights of these citizens. If President Ali’s administration was truly about the people, it would have acted decisively to protect and return land to these communities, ensuring justice and equality for all. It is clear that the government’s actions do not align with President Ali’s rhetoric. While the administration may claim that it is “about the people,” the evidence on the ground tells a different story. The people of Guyana, particularly the working class, pensioners, Indigenous peoples, and African Guyanese communities, continue to face systemic neglect. The government’s primary concern seems to be maintaining power and securing votes rather than ensuring the prosperity and well-being of all citizens.
If the government were genuinely focused on the people, we would see real, lasting changes in the lives of everyday Guyanese. Until then, the words “it has always been about the people” ring hollow and serve only as a convenient political slogan. The truth is that the government’s priorities lie elsewhere, and it’s time for the people of Guyana to demand better.
Sincerely,
Pt. Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt. (GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown
