AS August 2, 2024, marks the four-year anniversary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government assuming office, it is an opportune moment to evaluate its tenure.
The past four years have been a period of significant transformation and turbulence, with the PPP/C navigating both political upheaval and a global pandemic.

The government’s accomplishments, as outlined by General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, reflect a concerted effort to deliver on campaign promises and address the nation’s pressing needs.
The PPP/C’s journey began amid a protracted five-month dispute over the 2020 election results, a period that tested the country’s democratic resilience. The PPP/C’s eventual assumption of office followed a contentious process marred by allegations of electoral fraud attempted by then APNU+AFC administration and its affiliates.

The PPP/C’s transparency in releasing Statements of Poll and the certified recount was crucial in exposing manipulations of the process and validating their claims.
The subsequent investigation and ongoing trial of senior GECOM officials underscore the importance of safeguarding electoral integrity, a lesson that resonates beyond Guyana, as Dr. Jagdeo highlighted by drawing parallels with the current political situation in Venezuela.

Upon taking office, the PPP/C faced the daunting challenge of a pandemic-stricken nation grappling with job losses and overwhelmed healthcare facilities.
The government’s swift response to enhance healthcare infrastructure, secure vaccines, and manage the crisis has been commendable. Compared to many developed countries, Guyana’s relative safety during the pandemic can be attributed to the PPP/C’s effective crisis management and public health initiatives.

The PPP/C’s tenure has been marked by significant economic and social developments. Dr Jagdeo’s assertion that over 90 per cent of the government’s manifesto promises have been fulfilled is backed by a series of notable achievements.
The creation of 50,000 to 60,000 jobs has provided much-needed economic relief, while a $90 billion increase in public sector disposable income reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the financial well-being of its citizens.
The delivery of over 33,000 house lots and government scholarships to 50,000 individuals demonstrates a strong focus on housing and education, pivotal areas for national development.

The doubling of the old-age pension, restoration of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, and reinstatement of the Joint Services bonus highlight the government’s efforts to support the most vulnerable and to incentivize the Public Service.
The reversal of over 200 taxes and fees, alongside the implementation of a comprehensive infrastructure plan—including 140 kilometres of four-lane roads and over 400 bridges—illustrates a commitment to economic growth and public-service enhancement.
Looking ahead, the PPP/C’s forward-looking policies, such as the gas-to-energy project, promise to reduce electricity costs and boost the country’s economic prospects further. The advancement of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 indicates a commitment to sustainable development, aligning Guyana’s growth with global environmental goals.

In summary, the PPP/C government’s four-year tenure has been marked by significant achievements in infrastructure, social welfare and economic growth.
Despite the challenges faced, including navigating a global pandemic and overcoming political instability, the government has made substantial strides in fulfilling its manifesto promises. As Guyana reflects on these accomplishments, the focus should now shift to sustaining this momentum and addressing remaining challenges to ensure continued progress and prosperity for all Guyanese.