OCTOBER 5, 1992, marks a pivotal moment in Guyana’s history: The restoration of democracy after 28 years of oppressive PNC rule. It was a day that changed the course of the nation, setting it on a path of progress, development, and hope. Today, as we reflect on the 32 years since that transformative moment, we recognise the undeniable truth: Democracy is the foundation upon which Guyana’s extraordinary growth and success have been built.

For nearly three decades before democracy’s return, Guyana was under the grip of authoritarianism, and the nation’s potential was stifled. Development was stagnant, the economy crippled, and the people suffered under a regime that disregarded the rule of law and democratic principles. October 5, 1992 was a turning point. Under the leadership of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Guyana embarked on a new journey of governance that prioritised the will of the people, accountability, and economic revival.

The challenges faced by the new administration were immense. Guyana’s treasury was empty, its economy in shambles, and international trust had eroded. The debt burden was overwhelming, with nearly 90% of government revenues being devoured by debt repayments under the PNC regime. The country was on the brink of bankruptcy, considered untrustworthy by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and unable to secure new loans. Yet, despite these hardships, the PPP/C government did not falter. Guided by a vision of “development with a human face”, the new leadership worked tirelessly to restore fiscal stability, reduce the national debt, and rebuild the country’s shattered infrastructure and institutions.

Thanks to prudent economic management, international goodwill, and visionary leadership, Guyana underwent a remarkable transformation. The economy, once stagnant and debt-ridden, surged forward. From the brink of collapse, the country was elevated to middle-income status in just a few years. Debt relief initiatives, rescheduling agreements, and fiscal discipline set the stage for a brighter future. What once seemed impossible—a thriving, growing economy—became a reality. Today, Guyana is the fastest-growing economy in the world, bolstered by its carbon resources and strategic governance.
But beyond the numbers and economic success lies the deeper truth: Democracy is the oxygen that fuels Guyana’s progress. Without the return of constitutional governance and the rule of law in 1992, none of this would have been possible. The restoration of democracy breathed life back into a nation that

had been suffocating under authoritarian rule. It empowered the people to dream again, to strive for more, and to build a better future for themselves and their children.
As we celebrate this 32-year milestone, we must also acknowledge the continued vigilance required to protect our democracy. There are those who would prefer to see Guyana regress into the dark days of dictatorship, where elections were manipulated, and the people’s voices silenced. The events surrounding the 2020 General and Regional Elections serve as a stark reminder that democracy is fragile, and must be defended at all costs. We owe a debt of gratitude to those who stood firm against attempts to undermine the electoral process, including President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Vice-

President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. Their leadership, alongside the courage of the Guyanese people, and support from the international community, ensured that democracy prevailed once again.
As we move forward, it is clear that Guyana is in a much better place today. Our democracy continues to evolve, embracing the rich diversity and multiculturalism that define our nation. The foundations laid over the past 32 years provide us with the strength and resilience to meet future challenges, while ensuring that every citizen has a voice in shaping the country’s destiny.

Let this anniversary serve not only as a celebration of our achievements, but as a reminder of the sacrifices made to get here. Guyana’s democracy has been hard-won, and it remains the bedrock of our development. As we look ahead to an even brighter future, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to protect and nurture the democratic values that have brought us so far. Only through unity, vigilance, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law can we continue to ensure that Guyana’s best days are still to come.