PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s “Rescue Georgetown” initiative marks another attempt to address the capital city’s long history of stagnation because of the PNC/R-APNU.

The plan outlines 15 projects that focus on green infrastructure, climate resilience, and cultural heritage. However, Guyanese citizens have every reason to greet this news with both cautious optimism and skepticism.

The timing of this initiative is clearly strategic. Georgetown’s status as the once-celebrated “Garden City of the Caribbean” has declined to the point where even basic municipal services seem beyond the abilities of current leaders.

The President’s acknowledgement that “the mismanagement and inefficiency through which the city is managed can no longer be tolerated,” reflects what residents have experienced for years. Yet, words alone won’t bring back the city’s former glory or fix the governance failures that led Georgetown to this unfortunate condition.

The proposed projects, such as turning the historic transport building into a museum, creating walking trails, upgrading the Stabroek waterfront and enhancing shopping areas, are appealing. Residents like Katisha McIntosh are excited about the educational opportunities for younger generations to learn about their city’s rich history. Her idea to include the Georgetown Zoo in restoration efforts is insightful, given the facility’s role in many Guyanese childhoods and its potential to attract local and international visitors.

Raymond Stephens’ comments on drainage problems near the Stabroek Market highlight a major infrastructural issue that has troubled Georgetown for decades. The ongoing flooding forces market closures during high tides and harms vendors’ livelihoods, representing more than just an inconvenience. It reflects the systemic neglect of municipal governance. The repeated loss of inventory to flood damage, while authorities promise solutions “next year,” illustrates the frustration that fuels public support for central government intervention.

Makeda Cornette’s focus on tourism potential reveals economic opportunities that effective urban renewal could create. The Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana has already backed the initiative, understanding that Georgetown’s appearance significantly affects first impressions for investors and visitors. With the country’s economy growing rapidly, the capital city needs to present an image that aligns with Guyana’s rising regional importance.

Still, skepticism is justified. The government has already put billions into Georgetown’s infrastructure over the past five years, including upgrades to drainage, roads, and the Demerara River Bridge. While these improvements are meaningful, a lot needs to be done to take the city forward, especially with the PNC/R still at the helm.

The partnership with the King’s Foundation brings international expertise, but successful implementation will rely on continued political will and strong project management.  The bigger question is whether this initiative will lead to real change or just be hindered by political operatives who seem to be against development.

Involving various stakeholders—private sector, municipal authorities, and civil society—raises hopes for real progress.

President Ali’s statement that Georgetown should be repositioned “as one of the finest cities in the world,” sets an extremely high bar. Achieving this will take more than spending on infrastructure; it will require deep changes in governance, public accountability, and citizen involvement. The residents who support this plan deserve more than just inspiring words — they need real results that restore Georgetown’s pride and functionality as Guyana’s showcase capital.