IN recent days, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to educational advancement, especially regarding the removal of the tuition fee at the University of Guyana, a promise outlined in the PPP/C’s manifesto for the 2020 elections.

This progressive step towards making education more accessible, however, has been met with a duplicitous response from the APNU+AFC, revealing their cowardly nature through a negative campaign to undermine the proposed initiative.

The PPP’s pledge during the 2020 election campaign to eliminate university tuition fees within their first term is not only a testament to their commitment but also a promise they are on track to fulfill by 2025. This stands in stark contrast to the APNU+AFC’s history of unfulfilled promises and disregard for education.

During the 2015 election campaign, the APNU+AFC deceitfully promised to eliminate university fees, a commitment they shamelessly broadcast across various platforms in Guyana.

However, once in power, the coalition, essentially a façade for the PNC with David Granger at the helm, reneged on this promise. Not only did they disregard their commitment to free university tuition, but they also escalated education-related costs, increasing UG tuition fees and imposing VAT on education, data, and internet services—a direct assault on the academic welfare of students.

The revocation of the “Because We Care” cash grant (now reinstituted by the PPP/C government), a vital support for schoolchildren, further highlights the APNU+AFC’s callous indifference to the educational needs of the nation’s youth during their reign.

Today, these same political actors audaciously demand the immediate removal of tuition fees at UG, a demand reeking of hypocrisy and political opportunism.

The stark contradiction between the PPP’s steadfast dedication to educational progress and the APNU+AFC’s history of unfulfilled promises underscores the divergent approaches of these political parties on numerous issues.

The PPP’s commitment to eradicating tuition fees aligns with their election promises, reflecting a principled and accountable approach to governance.
On the other hand, the APNU+AFC’s track record reveals a pattern of broken promises, betraying the trust of the electorate. Their current demand for the removal of tuition fees at UG lacks credibility and sincerity, as it stands in stark contradiction to their past actions.

The people of Guyana deserve a government that upholds its commitments and prioritises the welfare of its citizens, particularly in the realm of education. And the PPP/C’s fulfillment of promises showcases a commitment to progress, while the APNU+AFC’s duplicity highlights the importance of a responsible and accountable approach to governance.

As the nation moves forward, voters must carefully consider these patterns of behaviour when evaluating the credibility and trustworthiness of political parties and their leaders.