BUDGET 2026 is a clear choice to support everyday Guyanese over empty talk and recycled cynicism. The opposition’s claim that this budget “has nothing” for the average citizen falls apart once you look at the actual measures.
This budget directs an unprecedented amount of resources into households. It includes tens of billions from the expanded Because We Care cash grant, new annual transportation grants for schoolchildren and pensioners, and a stronger public assistance programme.
For working families, this means real help: school fees are covered, transportation is taken care of, and uniforms can be bought without having to choose between textbooks and meals. Pensioners, who have often been overlooked, are seeing their monthly income raised to 46,000 with an added transport grant. Seniors themselves have called these measures timely, meaningful, and enhancing their dignity.
Additionally, Budget 2026 recognises that building wealth starts with security and assets. The increased low-income mortgage ceiling and the $7.5 billion housing improvement subsidy give low- and middle-income families a real opportunity to own or improve a home.
This creates collateral and builds wealth across generations instead of trapping them in a cycle of renting. Lower VAT on vehicles and maintaining zero excise tax on fuel are not handouts to the rich. In a society where transportation is often essential for getting to work, school, and healthcare, they serve as relief from the cost of living and improve productivity.
Importantly, this budget is grounded in reality, not fantasy or populist hype. The same opposition that once oversaw economic decline and illegal financial practices now proposes ideas that independent analysis suggests would quickly drain the Natural Resource Fund and destabilise the economy.
In contrast, Budget 2026 is based on strong growth forecasts, low inflation, and better international rankings. It allows Guyana to do what “ninety-five per cent” of governments are not doing: expand social support while investing in jobs, housing, and productive sectors.
This is why claims of neglect feel untrue. A government that increases school grants, covers CXC subjects, raises pensions, expands cash transfers, and absorbs billions in fuel and freight costs is not ignoring ordinary citizens. It is actively protecting them from global shocks while expanding opportunities.
Guyanese should engage in a meaningful discussion about how to refine this agenda, but they should outright reject any effort to downplay the real relief and opportunities in Budget 2026 just to gain political advantage.
