THE conclusion of the 2025 Budget Debates in the National Assembly laid bare a stark contrast in leadership approaches.
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh’s closing remarks not only provided a meticulous dismantling of the opposition’s rhetoric but also underscored a fundamental truth: the opposition’s persistent inability to learn from history will keep them sidelined for generations.

Dr. Singh’s presentation painted a clear picture—one rooted in documented history and lived experiences.
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), operating under various coalitions, has consistently demonstrated governance characterised by economic mismanagement, excessive taxation, and failed promises.

The APNU+AFC’s tenure from 2015 to 2020 reinforced this pattern, as the coalition imposed burdensome taxes, stifled economic growth, and failed to fulfill its grandiose campaign pledges.
One of the most striking moments of Dr. Singh’s speech was his reminder of the hardships inflicted upon the Guyanese people during the PNC’s rule in the 1970s and 1980s, when basic food items such as flour and potatoes were criminalised.

The absurdity of imprisoning citizens for consuming essential staples is an indelible stain on the opposition’s record, yet its current leadership continues to show no remorse. As Dr. Singh rightly pointed out, the opposition’s refusal to acknowledge past mistakes—let alone correct them—has condemned them to permanent political irrelevance.

More recently, the APNU+AFC’s tenure from 2015 to 2020 was marked by the same reckless approach. Dr. Singh highlighted two of the most glaring credibility issues: a sitting government official awarding contracts to a company she owned, and the coalition’s outright denial of receiving a signing bonus from ExxonMobil—only for documentation to later prove otherwise. These incidents, among many others, cement the opposition’s legacy of deception.

Their response to the 2025 budget further exposed their disarray. Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton made lofty promises, including multiple bridges across the Essequibo River and the revival of Guyana Airways Corporation—both devoid of feasibility studies or funding mechanisms.

Dr. Singh wittily dismissed these as fanciful distractions, pointing out that the opposition is simultaneously criticising government infrastructure spending while proposing extravagant, unfunded projects of their own.

Most damning, however, is the opposition’s blatant disregard for parliamentary decorum. Their decision to absent themselves during the government’s presentations exemplifies their disdain for inclusive governance. How can a party that refuses to listen expect to be taken seriously as an alternative government? Their conduct speaks volumes about their unwillingness to engage in meaningful discourse and their preference for obstruction over constructive debate.

In contrast, Budget 2025 is firmly rooted in economic pragmatism and people-centered development. With $90 billion allocated to relief measures aimed at reducing the cost of living and boosting disposable income, the government continues its commitment to tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Guyanese. Investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education promise long-term benefits, creating jobs, expanding opportunities, and fostering a resilient economy.

Dr. Singh’s closing remarks were not just a rebuttal of opposition theatrics; they were a reaffirmation of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) unwavering commitment to progress. As he declared, “We will execute Budget 2025, we will win the elections later in 2025, and we will continue to deliver until 2030, and long beyond 2030.”

This is the crux of the matter: while the opposition remains ensnared in a cycle of historical amnesia and political ineptitude, the government is forging ahead, ensuring that Guyana’s unprecedented economic growth translates into prosperity for all. The choice for the electorate in 2025 will be clear—progress versus stagnation, competence versus confusion, and a future built on delivery versus one rooted in deception.