The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has countered the recent criticism directed at its oil and gas stance by Christopher Ram by way of a press statement yesterday.
In the December 31, 2024 edition of Stabroek News, Ram, in his 150th column on oil and gas, said that the PNCR and its leader, Aubrey Norton lacked understanding and interest in the oil sector, and failed to present a coherent viewpoint on renegotiating the contentious 2016 oil contract with ExxonMobil.
The PNCR statement characterised Ram’s criticisms as unfounded, asserting that both the party and its leader have repeatedly expressed a clear and consistent position regarding the oil contract renegotiation. The PNCR said Ram’s allegations were misleading, particularly his assertion that the Opposition Leader has not conveyed a position on the subject.
The PNCR referenced multiple public declarations and press conferences where Norton expressed dedication to renegotiating the contract to ensure the people of Guyana derive maximum benefit from the nation’s oil resources.
The PNCR also emphasized in its statement its resolve to act decisively. Also mentioned in the statement is that in June 2023, Norton publicly vowed to engage ExxonMobil in negotiations within the initial 50 days of a new coalition government. Additionally, the party’s 20-point agenda on oil and gas, published in September 2024, outlines a specific strategy to review the 2016 Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) to maximize benefits for Guyana and ensure a fair profit share for Exxon and its partners.
In response to Ram’s critique of the party’s 20-point agenda, the PNCR expressed confusion regarding his conclusion that the document “serves at best as a promise to review rather than act.” The party pointed out that many aspects are action-driven, including the formation of an expert advisory team, the establishment of a petroleum commission, the creation of an independent inspector general’s office, and a commitment to reinstate the coalition government’s full liability coverage requirements.
The PNCR also expressed concern about the selective media coverage of both Ram’s criticisms and its responses citing the previous lack of coverage for the party’s rebuttals.
PNCR reiterated that renegotiating the 2016 oil agreement is a primary concern for the opposition. The party argued that Ram’s critiques overlook the firm and steady position held by Norton and the PNCR leadership in representing the interests of the Guyanese populace.