I have been following  the budget debate for the past two weeks.In my opinion, if the contents of the budget are implemented with honesty and transparency, it will no doubt benefit the poorer class of people and Guyana as a whole. Already, the government has implemented measures which will greatly assist the elderly.  These are    subsidised electricity and water bills and an increase in the old age pension and free medical care. Youths are benefiting from several training programmes throughout the country and not forgetting our children who are in a better learning environment.  

While raising the income tax threshold is ok, raising the NIS contributions makes no sense.  I know of many persons who did not get their NIS benefits and I am sure many more will not get. Unless proper management (decision-making and record keeping) is in place, NIS should remain as it is. Most times people are told they do not have enough contributions even though they have worked way beyond the required period.  I can testify to that.  
This is a story by itself.

Many are saying decrease the VAT, but the Finance Minister puts it correctly when he said: “Decreasing VAT will only put more money in the rich man’s pocket.”   It is the poorer people who purchase goods that are non-taxable.  How can they afford luxuries on a minimum wage/salary?

While I do not agree with some of the things the government is doing, the opposition has no grounds for cutting the budget. Doing so will only make them look like little children playing a game just to prove their strength (in this case a one-seat majority).  The opposition must remember they were not elected to run the government.  None of the opposition parties had a majority vote.  

If they have the interest of Guyana and its people at heart, then I will think the best thing to do is to support the budget and by doing so they will gain more respect.  As it is, they are seen as the real opposition, opposing any and everything.  This is very sad for Guyana.  

Allow this beautiful country to grow and regain its glory.