–says APNU must confront reality or risk losing future elections, remaining supporters

A CRIPPLING defeat at the 2025 general and regional elections has left the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) searching for hope and new leadership, as the party looks ahead.

For the first time since its formation in the 1950s, the PNCR will not play a major role as either the government or the main opposition, as the party, under the leadership of Aubrey Norton, has lost crucial support in its traditional strongholds, and failed to make grounds in unfamiliar areas.

Based on the results declared for the various districts which were shared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is leading by over 133,000 votes, while political newcomer, We Invest in Nationhood— led by US-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed— is well ahead of APNU.
Notably, the PPP/C, for the first time in history, has secured a victory in Region Four, which is traditionally a PNCR/APNU stronghold.
A recount initiated by APNU has not produced any significant changes or revealed any discrepancies, but Norton, who is facing mounting pressure to step down, wrote GECOM to quash the elections or conduct a forensic audit of the results.

There, however, seems to be a lack of consensus on this new position of APNU, as some party members and supporters have started making public calls for the acceptance of the results, and for the country to move forward.

In a letter to the editor, concerned PNCR youth, wrote: “We, the youth of the People’s National Congress Reform, a proud pillar of the APNU, extend our gratitude to all Guyanese who supported us during the recent elections.

“Your trust and commitment remind us of the PNCR’s enduring role, both within the coalition and in the life of our nation. Young people across this nation, including those who have traditionally supported APNU, have sent a powerful message: they are looking for younger leadership and a different approach.”

The youth went on to say: “We hear them and their voices must guide the renewal of our party and coalition. The election results have made it clear: our coalition must confront reality and act boldly. If we continue as we are, we risk losing not only future elections but the confidence of the people and the credibility of the PNCR and APNU as a force for national progress.”
In their view, the leadership must step aside and allow for the process of realignment within the party/coalition.

“Renewal at the top is not a rejection of our history, it is the only path to rebuild trust, unite our base and restore the coalition’s relevance.
“The PNCR, and by extension APNU, must regroup, reset and rise again with vision, courage and purpose. As young members of our great party, we stand ready to help chart that future. APNU

and the PNCR are not relics of yesterday, we are the promise of tomorrow and it is time to act decisively to secure that promise for our country,” the PNCR youth said.
Norton, even prior to the elections, had criticisms about his electability from within his party and from external allies.