GUYANA’S political landscape has long been marred by accusations of corruption and mismanagement, with each administration facing scrutiny over its handling of public resources and governance. However, recent remarks by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, have reignited the conversation, shedding light on the troubling practices under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government from 2015 to 2020.

Dr. Jagdeo’s comments, made during a recent news conference, painted the APNU+AFC period as one of the most corrupt in Guyana’s history. He accused the coalition of systematically bypassing procurement processes, awarding contracts to politically aligned companies, and engaging in large-scale land transfers without compensation. These claims, if proven true, reflect a profound abuse of power and disregard for the rule of law, highlighting a concerning chapter in Guyana’s governance.

But these accusations must serve as more than just political rhetoric; they should prompt a deeper reflection on governance, transparency, and accountability. The APNU+AFC administration came to power on a platform of anti-corruption, promising clean governance and a transformative approach to public service. Yet, Dr. Jagdeo’s assertions challenge these promises, pointing to a lack of adherence to the procurement process and misuse of state resources. If the lofty ideals that ushered the coalition into power were betrayed, the people of Guyana deserve answers and accountability from those involved.

As citizens, we must also question the role of the media and opposition in shaping public discourse. Dr. Jagdeo has accused certain media outlets of pushing a narrative designed to distract the public from the positive developments under the current PPP/C government. It is undeniable that a healthy democracy requires media to serve as a watchdog, ensuring that all administrations are held to account. However, when media coverage is skewed towards scandal and rumour without critically examining the facts, it undermines the public’s ability to make informed decisions.

There is no denying that since 2020, the PPP/C government has made tangible progress in areas critical to national development. Healthcare, education, infrastructure, and employment opportunities have seen marked improvements, with billions of dollars invested to uplift the lives of Guyanese citizens. By restoring hope and creating jobs, the PPP/C has demonstrated a commitment to delivering on its promises, fulfilling 90 per cent of its 2020-2025 manifesto plan, according to Dr. Jagdeo.

This progress, however, should not exempt the government from scrutiny. No administration is immune to criticism, and the PPP/C must continue to uphold the standards of transparency it champions. Dr. Jagdeo’s claims about ongoing efforts to improve procurement processes and prevent conflicts of interest among public officials are encouraging. But these reforms must be robust, sustained, and fully implemented to ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated.

At the heart of this editorial lies a simple truth: good governance is the cornerstone of national development. The people of Guyana have a right to expect that their leaders will govern with integrity, prioritise their well-being, and foster a culture of accountability. Whether under the current administration or any future government, Guyana must continue to strive for a system in which public resources are managed with transparency and where corruption has no place.

Dr. Jagdeo’s remarks offer a timely reminder that we cannot allow political distractions to overshadow the real issues facing the nation. The conversation must shift away from scandal and focus on the tangible progress being made to improve lives. Citizens deserve a government that delivers on its promises, a media that reports responsibly, and an opposition that holds power to account without resorting to baseless accusations.

As Guyana moves forward, the challenges of the past must inform the reforms of the future. Only then can the country truly fulfil its potential as a prosperous, transparent, and united nation.