THE recent remarks by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, suggesting that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) pays Afro-Guyanese to “beat up” Indo-Guyanese at street protests, reveal a disturbing pattern within the leadership of the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R).

Such divisive and inflammatory rhetoric does not reflect a genuine commitment to the advancement of Afro-Guyanese; rather, it underscores a disconcerting attempt to manipulate racial tensions for political gain.

As PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo rightly pointed out during a recent press conference, Norton’s words not only insult the integrity of Afro-Guyanese men but also expose the PNC-R’s preference for maintaining the status quo—keeping young Afro-Guyanese trapped in a cycle of victimhood and dependency.

Jagdeo’s critique was a timely reminder of the responsibility political leaders have to unite rather than divide their people. By casting Afro-Guyanese as mere pawns in a racially charged narrative, Norton and his party reveal a lack of genuine concern for the well-being and progress of this community.

One only needs to look at the PNC-R’s actions while in government to see the disconnect between their rhetoric and reality. Afro-Guyanese, particularly in communities like Linden, suffered from broken promises and a lack of meaningful opportunities under APNU+AFC’s rule. Jobs were scarce, and housing initiatives that were promised never materialised. As Jagdeo noted, while a select few in the APNU+AFC benefitted, the majority of Afro-Guyanese were left behind.

The Opposition’s political strategy has been to stoke fears and promote a “victim mentality” among their Afro-Guyanese base. This tactic not only prevents forward movement but also perpetuates a harmful narrative that suggests Afro-Guyanese are incapable of achieving success without political handouts. It’s a narrative that denies the ambition, intelligence, and potential of young Afro-Guyanese men and women who, given the opportunity, can and will thrive.

In contrast, the PPP/C has made strides in creating opportunities for all Guyanese, regardless of race. By promoting education, skills training, and entrepreneurship, they are empowering Afro-Guyanese youth to dream bigger and achieve more. This stands in stark contrast to the PNC-R’s reliance on outdated, divisive tactics that do little to uplift their constituents.

The PNC-R and its leadership, instead of evolving with the times and addressing the real needs of their supporters, cling to racially charged rhetoric that has no place in modern politics. Norton’s comments are emblematic of a party bereft of new ideas and desperate to maintain relevance by any means necessary. But as the country grows and progresses, so too should its politics. It is time for the PNC-R to rise above racial divisiveness and offer real solutions for all Guyanese, including those they claim to represent.

Even within their own ranks, there are dissenting voices. Opposition parliamentarian Jermaine Figueira’s refusal to engage in “dog-whistling and race-baiting” is a breath of fresh air, but his removal from key positions within the party highlights the PNC-R’s unwillingness to embrace progress. Figueira’s call for unity and his rejection of petty political tactics reflect the sentiments of many Guyanese who are tired of being manipulated by politicians and yearn for real, meaningful change.

The PPP/C, led by Jagdeo and President Dr. Irfaan Ali, continues to demonstrate that they are focused on building a nation that benefits all its citizens. From record-breaking economic growth to significant investments in housing, infrastructure, and education, their efforts are translating into tangible improvements in the lives of everyday Guyanese. Jagdeo’s assertion that the PPP/C works for “all of Guyana” is not mere rhetoric—it is a reflection of the party’s inclusive vision for the country.

The time has come for the PNC-R to move beyond its divisive past and offer something more than empty promises and racial fearmongering. Guyana is at a crossroads, and the future belongs to those who seek unity, progress, and opportunity for all. It is a future that cannot be built on the back of division and mistrust, but on the foundation of mutual respect and shared prosperity.

In the end, it is the Guyanese people, especially the young Afro-Guyanese men and women, who will determine the nation’s future. They deserve leaders who believe in their potential and are willing to invest in their growth, rather than those who seek to exploit them for political gain. The PNC-R must either step up to this challenge or risk becoming irrelevant in a country that is rapidly moving forward without them.