THE 2011 Budget has further demonstrated the unrelenting commitment shown by the PPP/C administration to fast track Guyana’s development and modernisation. In addition, the budget reflects the monumental progress that has led to the country’s social and economic meteoric transformation over the last 18 years.These rapid developments have been achieved in a short span of less than two decades. During this time, Guyana’s technological advancement soared. Today, almost everyone with cell phones can access the internet. This is not just for leisurely browsing, but to promote and enhance businesses and academic interests. Now, overseas calls can be made from these same hand-held mobile devices providing personal convenience.
This much desired convenience is further demonstrated in the thousands of ordinary Guyanese who now own homes and vehicles. The aggressive, unprecedented housing drive has resulted in tens of thousands of house lots being distributed. Many, who only dreamt of becoming  home-owners, are now basking in the glory of acquiring such a critical asset.
This has now empowered them to further enhance their personal development, especially those which may be dependent on requirements by financial lending institutions.
While development of the social and physical infrastructure continues unabated, one of the hallmarks of this administration is the guarantee and upholding of constitutional rights.
Not only has the freedom of expression been enshrined since the return to democracy in 1992 following almost three decades of dictatorship, but the freedom for personal enhancement and the ease with which it can be achieved. While this is evident in all facets of society, it is further demonstrated in the thousands who can now easily own  vehicles. Current records show that a minimum of 10,000 are being registered monthly.
This exemplifies the fact that Guyanese now have more disposable incomes for the accumulation of wealth, which is testimony to the administration’s prudence in management.
This and other developmental indices are demonstrative of Guyana’s advancement under the PPP/C administration. Were it not for the proven astute leadership of President Bharrat Jagdeo, and his cabinet, Guyana would have remained in the wilderness. Fortunately, a caring government is currently in office.
Today, Guyanese can now access modern health care facilities which have the capability of performing delicate surgeries that were once unfathomable. Thousands can now access primary health care in areas once considered unreachable. The same obtains for primary and secondary education.
The Berbice River Bridge stands as a beacon of development. This has not only eliminated the lengthy periods commuters and businesses were forced to endure  crossing from one side to the other, but has provided a much needed impetus for the continued development of that region.
A vital link has been established with Guyana’s southern neighbour, Brazil, via the Takutu Bridge. Brazil’s stature and growing influence on the global economy has made it a major international player.
This link ensures the opportunity for Guyana to benefit from south-to-south cooperation and to become a major player in the development of the peoples of South America.
The ongoing development in hinterland areas and the transformation of Linden and the Essequibo Coast are evidence of the administration’s thrust to ensure that all Guyanese benefit. No longer is development confined to the capital.
The 2011 Budget ensures the continuation of the government’s developmental thrust.
While the physical and social developments are too numerous to mention, much has been achieved on the international scene. Guyana is now respected and is leading on various issues. President’s Jagdeo’s advocacy on climate change resulted in him receiving the United Nations ‘Champion of the Earth’ award.
He is currently the Chairman of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) and was once the Chairman of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
These and other developments are indicative of the positive impact Guyana has made internationally and which have engineered positive changes in the lives of all Guyanese. It is, therefore, no coincidence that the economy continues to be stable with the recording of positive growth over the years. These are achievements that some influential developed countries cannot boast of. Some of these countries are still reeling from the consequences of the global financial crisis which swept many since 2008.
Internationally, some major companies and financial institutions failed leading to job loss and increased poverty. Guyana was able to withstand this and still record positive growth, again, testimony to the shrewdness and vision of the President.
Today, Guyanese enjoy a better quality of life. Unfortunately, the naysayers will continue in their vile attempts to convince of the contrary even though they themselves are much better off.
Oh, how hypocritical some can be. Ignore them.