Tag: Vice president

Dr Jagdeo: No amount of money, power will put Mohameds above the law

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

No amount of money, power, or public post can place anyone above the law, Vice President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday, as he accused members of the Mohamed family of attempting to use politics to avoid criminal accountability.
Resuming his weekly press conference on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo delivered a strong rebuke of what he called a “deliberate campaign of deception” by the wealthy business family, saying they were now “playing victim” after years of alleged financial misconduct.
“The law applies to everyone — rich or poor, businessman or politician. If you evade taxes, launder money, or commit crimes, you will face the law. The Mohameds are no exception. Their wealth and social standing will not buy them immunity in this country,” Dr. Jagdeo declared.
The Mohamed family — including Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed — has built a business empire spanning gold trading, real estate, and construction. But the family has come under intense scrutiny following criminal indictments and an extradition request from the United States.
Last week, Azruddin Mohamed, who was elected to Parliament, arrived at the National Assembly in a controversial Lamborghini that is allegedly fraudulently undervalued and the subject of a court case.
Dr. Jagdeo said the incident symbolised what he described as “an emerging culture of arrogance and entitlement” among a small elite.
Addressing allegations that the government is targeting the family for political reasons, Dr. Jagdeo said due process is being followed and that Parliament cannot be used as a shield against prosecution.
“They are not being persecuted; they are being prosecuted,” he said, adding that, “Parliamentary office offers no immunity from criminal proceedings — not here, not abroad. Only the President has constitutional protection. So this talk of the PPP delaying Parliament to enable extradition is complete nonsense.”
Dr. Jagdeo alleged that the family’s entry into politics was a calculated effort to delay extradition and reshape public opinion.
“Their lawyers probably told them that political office might complicate the extradition process. That’s why they rushed into politics, not to represent people, but to protect themselves,” he said.

Jagdeo outlines major social support, housing and infrastructure initiatives in 2026 Budget

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday outlined a suite of initiatives expected in the 2026 National Budget, including new housing support programmes, expanded social assistance, improved daycare services, and measures to modernize government operations.

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Jagdeo said the administration is preparing to launch programmes early next year targeting low-income and vulnerable families.

One of the flagship measures will be a housing construction support initiative, offering grants to poor and low-income households building their own homes.

“We are now doing a survey across all 10 regions, including Amerindian communities, to create a database of people who need help with construction. Once the programme is rolled out in the budget next year, they can start receiving assistance,” Jagdeo explained.

He noted that the grants will not cover the full cost of homes, but will help families meet essential construction expenses.

The budget will also include home improvement grants for low-income families in need of critical repairs, such as fixing leaking roofs, to enhance living conditions.

Jagdeo further announced reforms to the Board of Guardians system, which has faced long-standing criticism for delays and arbitrary decisions in distributing public assistance benefits.

“Once you meet the clearly identified metrics, you should qualify automatically. It should not be left up to prejudices or arbitrary decisions,” he said, noting that a new national database will allow eligible individuals to access benefits more efficiently.

Support for daycare centres will also be a priority, with government examining models such as co-investment, grants, and vouchers to ease childcare burdens and encourage women’s participation in the workforce.

The Vice President said the administration is also tackling everyday frustrations with bureaucracy by moving away from ad hoc ministerial approvals.

“We may just have two tint levels — one for the security forces and diplomats, and another for the general public. That way, people won’t have to run to a minister every week for exemptions,” he explained.

On firearm licensing, Jagdeo disclosed that between 30,000 and 50,000 requests are currently pending.

He said the government is exploring ways for citizens to protect their families responsibly without overwhelming the system or flooding the country with weapons.

Turning to infrastructure, Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s focus on job creation and accelerated development.

He highlighted the gas-to-energy project, major road construction, and drainage works as key priorities in 2026.

“We are already working on early completion of disruptive road projects, and once utility poles are relocated, those roads will be swiftly completed,” he said.

He also announced that 96,000 new street lights, already procured, are expected to arrive before year-end for installation across communities.

In addition, concrete roads, drains, and upgraded drainage systems will form part of a wider urban development programme next year.

On education, Jagdeo pointed to discussions on a new digital school initiative currently under review by President Irfaan Ali, which will form part of the administration’s broader push to modernize the education system.

Jagdeo emphasized that while some initiatives may not yet be visible, the government is steadily delivering on its manifesto promises.

“Since election day, the day after, we started working on the things we promised. We are not like the opposition, just looking for photo ops. A lot is happening behind the scenes to ensure our agenda is fulfilled in the next five years,” he said.

He reminded that national elections are constitutionally due in 2031, stressing that the administration has the time and capacity to complete its commitments.

Jagdeo: No crisis in foreign exchange market as Gov’t moves to expand financing options

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has reaffirmed the stability of Guyana’s financial sector, insisting that the country has both the revenue streams and institutional capacity to meet rising foreign currency demand, even as large-scale infrastructure projects put additional pressure on the system.

At a press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo dismissed concerns about capital flight and fears of a foreign exchange shortage, stressing that Guyana’s economic outlook points to stronger inflows and reduced demand over time.

“There is no crisis in the foreign currency market,” he declared. “Government has already injected US$1.2 billion into the market this year, and we have the capacity to do significantly more as revenues from the oil and gas sector continue to grow.”

The Vice President revealed that government is moving ahead with plans to establish a Development Bank to improve access to credit for small and medium-sized businesses, particularly women and young entrepreneurs who often face challenges securing loans.

The concept paper for the institution is nearing completion, with provisions expected in next year’s budget to provide seed capital.

The bank is set to become operational before the end of 2026 and will complement reforms within the traditional banking sector, including the introduction of new financial instruments, discounted invoices, and expanded project financing options.

Jagdeo explained that this initiative was shaped by years of consultations across the country, during which many Guyanese expressed frustration over barriers to financing despite having viable business ideas.

He acknowledged that demand for foreign exchange has surged, largely due to the financing of major projects such as the new Demerara River Crossing and the Gas-to-Energy project, both requiring hundreds of millions of US dollars from the domestic banking system and the Treasury.

However, he emphasized that this demand is temporary and capital-intensive rather than recurrent.

Once completed, Guyana’s demand profile will ease.

In particular, the Gas-to-Energy project will reduce reliance on fuel imports and enable domestic production of cooking gas, a shift that could cut annual foreign exchange outflows by as much as US$500 million.

“Today we’re seeing high demand because we’re financing decades of infrastructure in a short period,” Jagdeo said.

“But in the years ahead, not only will this demand decline, our import bill will also fall, while our foreign currency revenues will continue to grow.”

Jagdeo also defended government’s move to tighten oversight of the foreign exchange market, saying loopholes have been exploited by some foreign-owned businesses, including supermarkets and traders, who were accessing foreign currency to meet external obligations without proper banking records.

Under the new measures, larger transactions will require invoices to ensure purchases are tied to legitimate business needs, while local businesses and small-scale users will not be subject to unnecessary requirements.

“This is not about restricting Guyanese access to foreign exchange,” Jagdeo clarified.

“It is about preventing abuse of the system and ensuring that foreign entities operating here pay their fair share of taxes and do not divert our resources to meet external demands.”

He further pointed to ongoing reforms to expand Guyana’s fintech ecosystem in partnership with India, which is expected to reduce transaction costs and broaden access to financial services, especially in hinterland regions. At the same time, the Bank of Guyana will take on a stronger oversight role to enhance the resilience of the sector.

Responding to opposition claims of capital flight, Jagdeo was categorical.

“That is nonsense. If you look at the balance of payments, Guyana is seeing massive capital inflows because returns on investments here are among the highest in the world. This is a country where investors want to bring their money.”

With oil revenues growing, major infrastructure underway, and new measures to expand financing for local businesses, Jagdeo maintained that Guyana is well positioned to manage short-term demand for foreign exchange while maintaining long-term structural stability and economic growth.

Prime Minister, Vice President sworn in

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo were sworn in on Monday, underscoring President Irfaan Ali’s decision to retain his most senior political lieutenants as the PPP/C begins a new term in office.

The appointments come just a day after President Ali himself took the oath of office, following the party’s victory in the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

By returning both Phillips, a career military officer turned politician, and Jagdeo, a former president and the PPP’s chief strategist, Ali has signalled a preference for continuity at the top of government as he prepares to announce the rest of his Cabinet.

“These appointments are evidence of placing the reins of our nation’s development in the most trusted hands,” the President said during the ceremony. He praised Phillips’ “decades of demonstrated national service” and described Jagdeo as a “visionary” whose counsel has been indispensable.

Ali is expected to announce further ministerial appointments in the coming days, setting the tone for his administration’s second consecutive term.

Jagdeo: PPP/C to enter Parliament with bigger majority

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

The ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is projected to enter the National Assembly with a larger majority than in 2020, General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said on Tuesday, citing the party’s internal count of election results.

Jagdeo told News Source in an interview that the PPP had completed tabulation of nearly all Statements of Poll (SOPs) by early Tuesday morning, giving it a “comfortable” lead over the opposition. “The PPP will go into the National Assembly with a bigger majority than it did in 2020. That is very clear from the trend we were seeing,” he said.

He added that the new political party, WIN, had displaced A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) as the second-largest group in Parliament, drawing support from disaffected opposition voters, campaign spending, and social media outreach.

Dr Jagdeo credited changes to electoral laws following the disputed 2020 elections with improving transparency. “Anyone who can use a calculator would know the results,” he said.

While acknowledging lower voter turnout compared to past polls, Dr Jagdeo argued that the PPP still benefitted from public confidence in its performance and from disillusionment within APNU’s base.

The elections commission has yet to formally declare the results of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

Jagdeo confident of resounding PPP victory

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has expressed confidence in a resounding victory for the party as he spoke with members of the media after casting his vote at St. Paul’s Primary School on Monday.
Dr. Jagdeo noted that despite some “minor glitches,” voting across the country was proceeding smoothly and in an orderly manner. He credited the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for addressing reported issues promptly, stressing that what was being magnified by opponents were routine Election Day occurrences.
“The PPP is very confident going into these elections,” Dr Jagdeo asserted, noting that “We have worked assiduously since 2020, and from the feedback we’ve been receiving across the country, it’s heading in one direction—a PPP victory.”
The General Secretary urged Guyanese, particularly first-time and young voters to exercise their democratic right. “This is about safeguarding your own prosperity and your future,” he said, adding that the PPP has presented a comprehensive youth development plan unmatched by any other political party.
Reflecting on the 2020 elections, Dr Jagdeo pointed out that the current process is more transparent, with clear guidelines provided to presiding officers, party agents, and candidates. “We suffered a lot in 2020 because instructions kept changing, creating confusion. That’s no longer the case. There’s now less room for arbitrary action,” he emphasised.
Addressing reports of alleged voter inducement, Dr Jagdeo dismissed circulating rumours as attempts to mislead voters and prepare excuses for the opposition’s potential defeat. He maintained that if credible evidence of wrongdoing emerges, GECOM and the police should act immediately.
He also praised the security forces for their preparedness and professionalism in ensuring a safe environment for voters.

Jagdeo: Nazar Mohamed sidesteps question of Venezuelan embassy visit

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Prominent businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed avoided giving a direct answer as to whether he had visited the Venezuelan Embassy, amid allegations of ties between Mohamed’s family and Caracas.

This observation was made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo today in comments responding to claims by Nazar Mohamed in Stabroek News.

Mohamed, the father of We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) presidential candidate Azruddin Mohamed, challenged Jagdeo to provide evidence he visited the Venezuelan Embassy.

“Let Jagdeo put out the proof. He first said it was my son, then the Mohameds, then me… the man has no credibility. So I’m not going to answer that,” he told the Sunday Stabroek.

Dr Jagdeo, in response, said Mohamed’s remarks amounted to deflection, framing the issue as a smear campaign against his son’s political movement while declining to confirm or deny the embassy visit.

“He did not say yes or no; he avoided the question,” Jagdeo said.

The Vice President added that Mohamed’s refusal to directly address the matter left unanswered the factual question of whether he had visited the Venezuelan Embassy.

Nazar Shell Mohamed 

 

100,000 acres of agricultural land to be unlocked in Berbice

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

The government announced plans on Friday to unlock 100,000 acres of farmland in Berbice as part of a five-year strategy to boost the region’s agricultural sector.

PPP General Secretary and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo revealed the plans during a public meeting attended by thousands of supporters.

“Right here we have 26,000 acres at Skeldon—the old GuySuCo project—and another 40,000 acres among co-ops in the Crabwood Creek area. We plan to build a road from here all the way to Moleson Creek and Orealla to open up more lands, and to get all of these lands into agriculture, open up about 100,000 acres of land righto here,” he said.

The initiative also aims to create jobs through agro-processing and infrastructure development.

“Maybe even building a wharf here to ship directly out of the Corentyne. This is about more jobs, better paying jobs,” Jagdeo said.

The project is expected to stimulate the local economy, encourage sustainable growth and improve livelihoods in the Corentyne region.

Jagdeo: More jobs, homes and education for youths

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Young people across Guyana can expect expanded opportunities in education, jobs, housing and entrepreneurship, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday.

Speaking at his weekly press conference at Freedom House, he said the PPP is the only party that can “credibly promise” transformative development for young people, especially in hinterland and rural communities that have long faced barriers to progress.

Jagdeo said the expansion of high-speed internet would allow young people, including those in remote Indigenous communities, to pursue university degrees from home. He added that scholarships and targeted investments in education would continue, ensuring that students across the country have a fair chance to improve their qualifications and build successful careers.

On employment, the PPP general secretary said the government’s pro-business and pro-industry policies would create more rewarding jobs in sectors such as agriculture, mining, hospitality and the creative industries.

He acknowledged that part-time jobs had been introduced as a temporary measure but said the focus now is on transitioning youths into stable, better-paying positions. Special attention, he noted, would be given to hinterland and underserved coastal regions where job opportunities remain limited.

Reaffirming his party’s housing agenda, Jagdeo said a new PPP term would feature increased support for land distribution, house lot preparation and affordable housing construction. Special solutions would also be introduced for Indigenous communities where communal land arrangements complicate mortgage financing.

To reduce the cost of living, he pointed to initiatives such as removing bridge tolls, cutting electricity bills by 50 percent and lowering taxes on vehicles. These steps, he said, are aimed at helping young families save more as they start out.

He also cited zero-interest loans for young entrepreneurs and a dedicated financing window for women and youth to grow small and medium-sized businesses.

Jagdeo said young people can also expect continued investments in recreational and sporting facilities nationwide, describing them as vital to youth development and community life. He added that improved lighting, new roads and upgraded waste management systems were also planned to make communities safer and healthier for families.

Jagdeo: World Bank poverty data do not reflect current reality

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has shut down claims by the Opposition that half of Guyana is living below the poverty level.

Responding to a question posed by a reporter during his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, the General Secretary clarified that the data which was cited from the World Bank was derived from a 2018-2019 survey.

He stressed the need for an updated survey, which he said would paint an entirely different picture.

“It is 2018-2019 data, and Nigel Hughes keeps repeating it as though it’s current, and everybody clarified that already. This is what happened under APNU [A Partnership For National Unity],” Dr Jagdeo said.

He related that there has been massive improvements under the PPP administration which has led to improved living standards for Guyanese.

“From then to now, old age pension has been doubled, sixty thousand people…are working, we now have better access to healthcare, the children have a grant, a whole range of things have changed from 2018 to now,” he said.

He stressed that the World Bank itself has also clarified the use of the data, noting that the information released in 2019 and not recently.

“I think we need to have another survey done because it was a household income expenditure survey. We need to look at that. What it would show is that tonnes of people more are working, earning– look at the disposable income level again, look at public sector,” he emphasised.

Dr Jagdeo continued that a look at the 2020 wage bill is different to what it is today, noting that it is nearly 120 billion dollars more.

“That’s a lot of money, I was thinking 600 million US dollars more per year…,” he said.