–Dr. Jagdeo says as the country marks the 34th anniversary of the restoration of democracy

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has described October 5, 1992, as one of the most consequential dates in Guyana’s political history, as the country marks the 34th anniversary of the restoration of democracy.
In a message marking the occasion, Dr. Jagdeo said the 1992 General and Regional Elections, which resulted in a victory for the PPP/C, ended 28 years of what he described as undemocratic rule by the People’s National Congress (PNC).
“That victory represented more than a change of government. It paved the way for an independent judiciary, a stronger Parliament, a free press, and a new Constitution that enshrined fundamental protections. Even with all of their imperfections, these institutions are hard-won gains, and remain essential to a society where every citizen can live freely, pursue opportunity, and shape their future,” he said.
According to Dr. Jagdeo, while the country’s democratic institutions remain imperfect, they represent hard-won gains that are essential to ensuring citizens can live freely, pursue opportunities and participate in shaping the country’s future.
He also linked the restoration of democracy to Guyana’s subsequent economic development, pointing to debt reduction, sound economic management and long-term planning as measures which helped establish the foundation for economic growth.
Dr. Jagdeo said these developments contributed to advances in health, education, housing and other social services, while creating greater opportunities for prosperity.
“On the road ahead, we will remain vigilant in protecting our democratic freedoms. We will also ensure development reaches every family and every region. We will continue to prioritise job creation, housing, education, health and the wellbeing of our children, young people and the elderly.”
However, he warned that democracy must not be taken for granted, pointing to the political crisis that followed the 2020 General and Regional Elections.
He accused APNU+AFC of attempting to overturn the will of the electorate following the 2020 elections, and said the PPP/C had stood in defence of Guyana’s democratic process and the right of citizens to choose their government.
Jagdeo also stressed the need for sufficient time for government initiatives to be implemented, alongside fiscal discipline and transparent management of public resources.
He said the PPP/C would continue to pursue its commitments while fighting corruption in all its forms.
“Our promise is to build a Guyana where prosperity touches every community and every citizen regardless of race, religion or creed. That is what we fought for in 1992. It is what we will continue to deliver,” he said.