The unveiling of the $208.8M budget for 2013 in the National Assembly

by Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, the   largest financial estimate in the history of Guyana, once again underlines why the PPP/C Government understands the dynamics of developing a nation for the benefits of its people. Again, it is a financial blueprint that reflects a vision for the continuation of the transformative process so ably set in train by that great visionary of a leader, former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
But first of all, commendations to the administration for the seventh consecutive year of economic growth of almost 5%. This must engender feelings of great satisfaction to the executive, especially when one takes into consideration that many of the sister states of  CARICOM are still reeling from the  debilitating effects of the great economic meltdown. The island state of Jamaica, offers a clear example of the fallout, as its economy struggles to effect a rescue agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The fact that Guyana has remained largely unaffected by the contagion speaks volume of the type of implemented socio-economic development plans that have been designed for the advancement of the nation and its peoples, in addition to their management. This was a fact that Minister Singh alluded to during his presentation, when he said “…bolstered by our unswerving commitment to[the] task, our government ensured the preservation of a policy environment that remained conducive to economic growth and social development throughout 2012”. This has been the lynchpin of the great success story of the magnificent economic development strides that this nation has continued to make, under the mandate of the PPP/C Government.
But back to the 2013 budget per se. For all the post-budgetary comments thus far emanating from  both  A Partnership For National Unity(APNU) and the Alliance For Change(AFC), none has offered any pointed line of criticisms as regards this budget’s  relevancy to the needs of the Guyanese society. Even APNU’s leader, Mr. David Granger, admitted in the media that there is a little bit for everyone. And this means his constituents, as well.
One may recall that he had been instrumental in  discussions with the government, in securing an increase for Old Age pensioners in 2012. Again, the 2013 budget has further demonstrated its concern for this very special category of citizens, with another 25%  increase of $2,500, to a new rate of $12,500. This is an addition to a sum of  $20,000 per annum, to assist in defraying GPL electricity charges.
This particular intervention has been welcomed by all of the pensioners on the Ministry of Human Service’s pension roll. This fact, among others, demonstrates why this PPP/C Government is the best one for Guyana.
Let the debate begin.