–says gov’t implemented clear, merit-based promotions policy that rewards police for longevity, discipline, performance

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy has dismissed what he describes as “a calculated and dishonest attempt” to portray Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo as the arbiter of police promotions.

McCoy was at the time responding to a recent news article which quoted Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman David Patterson.
“This is a blatant falsehood. The Constitution is clear in that promotions within the Guyana Police Force are the responsibility of the Commissioner of Police and the Police Service Commission,” McCoy said in a statement on his official Facebook page.

He related that the Vice-President, speaking on behalf of the government, had drawn attention to “concerns expressed by officers who served with loyalty and distinction and believe they were deliberately denied advancement”.

McCoy said: “To claim that Dr. Jagdeo ‘presided over’ promotions is pure political mischief intended to distract from the truth.”
He added that it was the APNU+AFC that systematically undermined morale, stalled promotions, and stripped away the Joint Services’ bonus.

According to the minister, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has implemented a clear, merit-based promotions policy that rewards “longevity, discipline, and performance” while creating career opportunities that he noted were deliberately blocked by the former administration.
He further outlined measures introduced and reintroduced by the government, including the correction of salary inequities among lower ranks, the restoration of the Joint Services bonus, and significant investments in modern policing infrastructure.

These, he added, include new patrol vehicles, the rollout of body cameras, expansion of the Safe City project, and advanced forensic and communications equipment, alongside continuous training and technical upgrades.

“The APNU+AFC had every opportunity to deliver these reforms, but chose neglect and political manipulation instead,” McCoy stated.
He went on to say: “The PPP/C administration is uplifting the GPF into a motivated, respected, and professional institution capable of delivering law and order to every citizen, and free from partisan interference.”