THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) 2025 manifesto is more than a political plan—it is a vision for empowering families and transforming Guyana’s future, according to Dr. Kofi Dalrymple, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the University of Guyana (UG).
Appearing recently on the Starting Point Podcast, Dr. Dalrymple voiced his support for the PPP/C’s bid for a second term in office, praising the party’s commitment to competence, unity, and development.
According to him, the 2025 manifesto of the PPP/C is not only a plan to catapult Guyana into the era of digital and infrastructural transformation, but it is also about empowering families.
Dr. Dalrymple’s engagement with politics runs deep. His father was once a member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) during the leadership of the late Dr. Walter Rodney, one of Guyana’s most influential political and intellectual figures.
That family history, he explained, instilled in him both a respect for political activism and a critical eye for leadership.
Asked why he aligned himself with the PPP/C, Dr. Dalrymple pointed to what he sees as the party’s proven record of competence and nation-building.
“What attracted me to the PPP/C is its track record of building, not breaking; its track record of uniting, not dividing,” he said. “When I think of a political party, I think of serious business. I think of competence. I see that in the PPP/C in the way that they have governed the country, particularly over the last five years.”
He acknowledged that no political organisation is flawless but argued that the PPP/C demonstrates the qualities necessary to steer Guyana at this pivotal stage of its development.
“It isn’t a perfect party. There is no party anywhere in the world that is perfect. But I think this party has all of the right ingredients to lead the country, particularly when it comes to competence and leadership,” he remarked.
He contrasted this with what he views as the lack of a coherent vision in other parties, stating, “I do not see that in other parties.”
Dr. Dalrymple emphasised that what sets the PPP/C’s 2025 manifesto apart is not just its emphasis on infrastructure, digital transformation, and economic growth, but its recognition of the family as the foundation of society.
“The manifesto and the party’s vision go towards strengthening families. The family is the basic unit of our society. If the family isn’t functioning well, then society isn’t functioning well. This is where our children get a start in life, and if they don’t get that good early start, it becomes a challenge. One of the things that prevents families from doing well is money,” he explained.
“A lot of families break up, having to choose between sending a child to school and paying the bills. No family in Guyana should ever be in a situation like that.”
Dr. Dalrymple emphasised that education and family support remain central to the party’s agenda as it works to empower Guyanese.
He outlined several initiatives, including the government’s promise to raise the “Because We Care” cash grant from $55,000 to $100,000 if the party is reelected, maintaining the newborn baby cash grant of $100,000, and introducing a new $100,000 transportation grant for every child.
He also pointed to the elimination of fees for Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) exams and free tertiary education.
The university dean stressed that education remains a crucial pathway to success, a principle deeply held by himself, his family, and Guyanese across the country.
Dr. Dalrymple stated that the government is focused on putting resources directly into the hands of the people, not only through cash grants but also by providing opportunities to leverage those funds with zero-interest loans for those looking to start up their own business.
He affirmed that the party’s manifesto commits to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs by providing the guidance and assistance necessary to start and succeed in their own businesses.
He highlighted the many avenues for growth in communities, including health, engineering, tourism, and other sectors, stressing that young people have abundant opportunities.
Dr. Dalrymple highlighted that inclusivity for people with disabilities is a key priority in the party’s manifesto. He noted the PPP/C’s commitment to creating opportunities, providing support, and ensuring that all Guyanese, regardless of ability, can fully participate in society and benefit from the nation’s growth.
“I have a nephew who has autism, and I know how difficult that is for his family and how it changes families. I don’t know if the other parties’ manifestos look at that, but this one [the PPP/C’s manifesto] goes to the heart of how to create a safer, more caring society.”
He noted that children with disabilities need targeted interventions and that the PPP/C manifesto outlines measures to support them, as well as to protect women and children.
Dr. Dalrymple, an engineer, scientist and entrepreneur, stated that for the country to develop, everyone must participate and benefit from the new Guyana being built, underscoring his support for the PPP/C and urging all to back the party.
He encouraged everyone to take the time to read the party’s manifesto.
Dr. Dalrymple is among the professionals who have thrown their weight behind the PPP/C ahead of the September 1, General and Regional Elections. He is on the party’s list of candidates.