IN the dynamic political landscape of Guyana, the contrasting records of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the opposition APNU+AFC coalition stand out starkly, particularly in the eyes of Senior Minister Dr. Ashni Singh.

Speaking candidly to residents of Leonora and neighboring communities, Dr. Singh made a compelling case for the PPP/C’s consistent efforts to foster social and economic progress, juxtaposed with what he described as the opposition’s pattern of obstructive politics and unfulfilled promises.

Dr. Singh’s critique of the opposition hinges on tangible impacts experienced by ordinary Guyanese during the APNU+AFC administration. One poignant example he highlighted was the termination of the “Because We Care” cash grant for schoolchildren, a programme reinstated and significantly enhanced under the current government.

This grant, coupled with a uniform allowance, directly injects financial support into families, emphasising the PPP/C’s commitment to education and social welfare. Such initiatives are not merely welfare handouts but strategic investments in the nation’s future, aimed at ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically.

Moreover, the PPP/C’s restoration of the tax-free bonus for the Joint Services exemplifies their recognition and support of the critical roles played by security forces in maintaining national stability. This move not only boosts morale, but also underscores a broader policy approach that values the contributions of all segments of society.

One of the most contentious and impactful issues has been the handling of the sugar industry. The APNU+AFC government’s decision to close several sugar estates, resulting in the loss of over 7,000 jobs, dealt a severe blow to communities dependent on this sector. By contrast, the PPP/C has taken a more measured and resilient approach, acknowledging the industry’s challenges while working diligently to address them.

The closure of the Rose Hall Estate, for instance, uprooted thousands of workers, devastating the local economy. The PPP/C’s efforts to revive the sugar industry, despite its inherent difficulties, reflect a determination to protect jobs and sustain a historically vital part of Guyana’s economy.

As Guyana approaches another election cycle, the electorate faces a critical decision. The PPP/C’s track record, as articulated by Dr. Singh, is one of facing challenges head-on, and striving to implement policies that benefit the broad population.

This stands in sharp contrast to what he portrays as the APNU+AFC’s pattern of retracting beneficial programmes and failing to deliver on promises. For voters, this contrast offers a clear metric for evaluating the potential future leadership of the country.

Ultimately, the narrative presented by Dr. Singh is one of resilience and progress under the PPP/C, versus a history of setbacks and unfulfilled promises under the Opposition. As Guyanese head to the polls next year, this historical context and the tangible impacts of each administration’s policies will likely play a pivotal role in shaping their choices. The upcoming elections are not just a referendum on past performance, but a decisive moment for the future direction of Guyana’s development.