–Jagdeo says in appeal to first-time voters

ISSUING a direct appeal to first-time voters, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo urged them to recognize the power of their ballots in safeguarding Guyana’s democracy, progress, and future. 

The upcoming elections will decide whether Guyana moves forward or returns to years of deadlock, Dr. Jagdeo said at a public meeting held at Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
He noted that those who will be voting for the first time in 2025 were just 13 years old during the controversial 2020 elections, when the APNU+AFC coalition attempt to hijack the nation’s democracy.

“They may not have fully understood the threat then,” he said, “But they need to recognise now that what is at stake is not abstract — it is the very leadership and stability of this country.”
Addressing younger voters directly, Jagdeo warned that the rise of social media has made political communication more superficial, and some may be drawn to appearances rather than substance.

“Some may be easily be carried away by someone who posts a nice picture or a fancy car,” he cautioned, “But the day after elections, you need competent people to govern — people who can manage an economy, create jobs, build homes, and hold this country together.”
He warned that the stakes extend far beyond elections day itself.

While noting that most young people are not privy to the dark days of the People’s National Congress, now branded as the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), he urged citizens: “If you have a young relative, if you have a first-time voter, talk to that person, sit them down and tell them what is at stake.”

Describing one’s vote as a powerful tool to protect democracy, progress, and the nation’s future, Dr. Jagdeo told the mammoth crowd to go in their communities and mobilise to encourage everyone to head to the polls on September 1 and vote.

He said: “Your vote is valuable. Use it to safeguard freedom in this country. Use it to safeguard progress in this country. Use it to safeguard the future of your children and your family in this country. Use it to unite the people of Guyana. That is how powerful that vote is, and we fought to keep it free so that every person’s voice matters. This is what these elections are about. So, I’m counting on every one of you.”

“Do not allow your future to be determined by gimmicks,” he said. “Leadership is about responsibility, not showmanship.”