says PPP/C committed to unity and growth

STRIVING to foster unity and harmony among Guyanese, Minister Within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has called on citizens to critically assess the progress achieved under President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s administration over the past four years. She encouraged comparisons with the previous government led by the APNU+AFC coalition during its tenure from 2015 to 2020.
In a recent Facebook interview, Minister Rodrigues addressed claims made by opposition members that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is selective in its development agenda. She refuted these allegations, emphasising that the administration’s efforts benefit all Guyanese regardless of race, gender, or religion.

“The evidence of community development, home ownership, and job creation in every geographic area across Guyana demonstrates that our government works inclusively,” she stated, contrasting this with what she described as a lack of comparable achievements during the opposition’s time in office.
A Call for Honest Reflection

Minister Rodrigues urged Guyanese, particularly the youth, to undertake a fair assessment of the current government’s performance. She highlighted the importance of voting on the basis of leadership quality, experience, trustworthiness, and a demonstrated ability to deliver on commitments.
“I am counting on [Guyanese], especially young people, to take an honest assessment of the leaders that you have, the government that you had, and the government that you have now,” she said. “Make a decision on who is better for this country, who is more experienced, who is trustworthy and who has got your back.”

She also emphasised that political decisions should transcend personal backgrounds or affiliations, advocating instead for evaluations grounded in performance and results.
Addressing “Racial Politics” and Building Unity

Minister Rodrigues rejected the notion of “racial politics” as a barrier to national unity, asserting that the PPP/C government reflects the diversity of Guyana’s population. She reiterated that fostering a cohesive society requires inclusive governance and a rejection of divisive rhetoric.
Highlighting achievements in the housing sector, Minister Rodrigues noted that thousands of Guyanese have been empowered through home ownership and the government remains committed to expanding these opportunities.
Acknowledging the backlog of housing applications, she assured applicants that their requests would be addressed. “For those who are waiting, it’s not IF you will get your land. It’s just a matter of WHEN… We are continuously working to acquire new land in every region… so we can address all of the pending applications,” she said.

The minister also cautioned against squatting, warning individuals influenced by opposition members to refrain from illegally occupying government reserves. She underscored the administration’s focus on orderly and lawful development, while accommodating Guyanese seeking regularisation of informal settlements.

Minister Rodrigues emphasised that the government’s record of accomplishment in delivering on its promises underscores its commitment to all Guyanese. As the nation continues its development trajectory, she called on citizens to align themselves with a leadership dedicated to inclusivity, progress and the betterment of all.

This candid appeal from Minister Rodrigues comes at a time when the government seeks to strengthen its “One Guyana” vision and reinforce the strides made in building a unified and prosperous society.