VICE President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s recent speech at the Patentia Market Square serves as a strong statement for democracy in Guyana and a plan for ongoing national development.

His focus on the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) youth candidates, which includes 27 individuals under 25 and another 16 under 40, shows a political maturity that goes beyond traditional power dynamics.

This indicates a party confident in its strength and dedicated to democratic stability beyond any single leader. The diversity in the PPP/C’s candidate selection is commendable as it truly reflects Guyana’s multicultural society.

With nearly 40 per cent female representation exceeding constitutional standards and broad representation across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds, the party has assembled a team that accurately represents modern Guyana.

This stands in sharp contrast to opposition parties that seem to struggle with candidate selection, reportedly filling their lists with headquarters staff instead of real community representatives. Dr. Jagdeo’s political insight is clear when looking at the party’s strategy amid Guyana’s significant economic changes.

The country has recorded the highest GDP growth rates in the world, with an average of 47 per cent annually since 2022, largely thanks to oil revenues while non-oil sectors continue to grow strongly at 13 percent.

This economic boom didn’t just happen by chance; it stems from the careful policy implementation that Jagdeo mentioned, which highlights the PPP/C’s credibility in fulfilling its promises.

The difference with the opposition’s track record is significant. The APNU+AFC coalition from 2015 to 2020 experienced economic mismanagement, including shutting down sugar estates that affected over 7,000 jobs and attempts to undermine democracy during the 2020 election crisis.

Their current disarray, marked by notable departures to the PPP/C and difficulties in maintaining coalition unity, indicates an organisation that is losing ground. Former APNU+AFC minister Dominic Gaskin’s prediction of a PPP victory, citing the opposition’s misconduct in 2020, highlights a broader acknowledgement of their diminished credibility.

Dr. Jagdeo’s focus on institutional capability instead of personality politics is particularly important. His commitment to mentoring young leaders while providing strategic guidance shows a commitment to a democratic leadership process that strengthens political institutions. This approach stands in contrast to the opposition, which seems to rely more on divisive language than on clear policy alternatives.

The PPP/C’s accomplishments since 2020 lend substantial support to Dr. Jagdeo’s confidence. The cutting of over 200 taxes, the creation of 60,000 jobs, the doubling of pensions, and significant infrastructure projects are clear achievements that resonate with everyday Guyanese.

The party’s skill in managing oil revenues while maintaining fiscal discipline and investing in long-term growth demonstrates the “good management” that Jagdeo rightly identifies as key to their success. Critics might argue that revenue from oil makes governance simpler, but this overlooks many examples worldwide of resource-rich countries falling into the “resource curse.”

Guyana’s ability to avoid this pitfall and build a diverse economy shows that it is the result of intentional policymaking rather than mere luck. The demographic makeup of the PPP/C’s candidates also reflects strategic planning for Guyana’s future. With youth unemployment and emigration being ongoing issues, the party’s support for young leaders sends a strong message about creating local opportunities instead of accepting brain drain as unavoidable.

This forward-thinking approach, along with the party’s focus on ethnic and gender inclusivity, positions it to tackle Guyana’s historical divides through real unity rather than just talk. As Guyana approaches its elections on September 1, the choice becomes clearer.

The PPP/C offers proven competence, inclusive representation, and institutional continuity under experienced leadership. In contrast, the opposition presents disarray, questionable democratic principles, and mainly reactive rather than proactive policies.

Dr. Jagdeo’s belief in his party’s success reflects a realistic understanding of the political landscape based on performance and public confidence. The ultimate measure of any democracy is its ability to ensure peaceful leadership changes and strengthen institutions.

The PPP/C’s focus on youth engagement, policy continuity, and inclusive governance suggests a party ready for long-term democratic responsibility rather than short-term political gain.