THE 32nd Congress of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is currently in progress at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal.
The Congress will last for three days from May 2-3, 2024. The theme of the Congress is: “Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana, and Unite Our People for Progress and Prosperity.”
This Congress is significant not only for the Party but for the country as a whole. For one thing, as the governing party, decisions taken at the Congress can have far-reaching consequences for country. It can have an impact on decision-making both at the party and at the executive level.

This is by no means an attempt to have what was referred to as “party paramountcy” under the days of PNC dictatorial rule. Those were the days when party and government was almost indistinguishable with the PNC Flag flying high over the High Court building.
PPP Congresses provide an opportunity for members all across the country to meet and deliberate on the way forward for the party. Such deliberations are influenced by the Central Committee Report read by the Party’s General Secretary.

There will also be several workshops on several aspects of party and national life where party delegates and observers will be provided with an opportunity to have their say on matters of concern to them.
There will also be several motions and resolutions by Party groups on matters of national and international importance.
One highlight of the Congress is the election of a new Central Committee of the Party. The democratic essence of the Party is in full display as delegates cast their ballots for candidates of their choice in secret ballots.

This Congress is taking place at a time when the country is experiencing its best moment both from a developmental and people-oriented perspective. Economically, the economy is doing extraordinarily well and the living and working conditions of the Guyanese people have seen marked improvements under successive PPP/C administrations.
The Congress will end with a political declaration which will encapsulate the main elements of the Congress deliberations.

The opening ceremony was punctuated by messages from PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, messages from fraternal organisations along with cultural items.
The opening ceremony saw thousands in attendance from a wide cross-section of the national and international community including representatives of the Guyanese diaspora from around the world.
Expectations are high for a successful and productive PPP Congress which will chart the way forward for the country as it seeks to navigate the challenges of the national and international environment.