THE Opposition-engineered cuts to the National 2012 Budget are now widely known across the country. With the one dollar allocation to several agencies and scrapping of major initiatives, many stand to suffer and to lose out on opportunities for their development. Over $18B worth of projects under the Low Carbon Development Strategy was cut, wiping off projects such as the Amaila Falls Hydro power, solar panels for Amerindians and the Amerindian Development Fund.
Several Amerindians from Region 1, Barima Waini, upon learning of the budgetary cuts, voiced their concerns.

David James, Ricon resident: I can’t see the ruling party now, just because of one seat, accepting this type of behaviour from the Opposition, and I would directly say that some people voted for change; we got change now, and they cutting the budget; and if it happened in this first budget, next year it would be worse. I think the government needs to review and I personally think there needs to be new elections, because we can’t accept  $20B in cuts; it’s not easy and some of our main projects not being realized is a total embarrassment for Amerindians whom Cheddi Jagan fought for. They never had Amerindians on their agenda when they were in government, it’s through Cheddi and former president Jagdeo Amerindians were recognized.  I’m not feeling comfortable with what they are doing.
Bruce Williams, Kwebanna: We already did our part by voting. I think you all should put your heads together and rule this country. What we could do, we could vote again; but we need to do something, this is a sad situation.
Peter Abraham, Karaburi: We were expecting better news. We as Amerindians need a restructure in the budget for the good projects to continue. It is sad situation, thinking about the youngsters; and if you are thinking positively, I don’t see how the combined Opposition can think so immaturely.
Dennis John: APNU can do all the arrogant cuts especially in this community; we want to let you know that we are supporters of the PPP/C Government.
Alonzo Cornelius, Toshao, Haimaracabra: I remember the opposition party, they were indeed planning to cut the presidential grants and some of the funds that would have benefited the different communities; and it’s like their plans are coming to pass. We should stand up for our rights and let our voices be heard. We cannot sit and take what is happening presently, it looks like two men ruling one country… and it’s going to get worse.
Errol Sutton, Wallaba: The very first time I had to go to the polling station that was my target, the three Ps. And from then to now, I can see what the government is doing and I can see truly that the Opposition is trying to cut everything that we hold. I have seen a lot of changes because in the early years I can remember the strikes and the hardness all over.