Tag: Vice president

Jagdeo urges strong turnout on Sept. 1, touts extraordinary achievements

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo called on supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to ensure a strong voter turnout and deliver a resounding victory at the September 1 polls.

Addressing a packed rally at Kitty Market Square for the official campaign launch, Dr Jagdeo highlighted the government’s key achievements since taking office in 2020, including job creation, education access, and tax relief.

“We have put over 60,000 people back to work,” he said. “Nearly 40,000 are now studying at the tertiary level, and we’ve made university free. This is what progress looks like.”

Dr Jagdeo emphasised that while the PPP/C enjoys wide support, complacency would be dangerous. “The massive victory I spoke of will be inevitable only if you do the work that is necessary between now and Election Day,” he said. “The internet doesn’t vote. People do.”

The former president also took direct aim at the main opposition and emerging political challengers, mocking their rally turnout and campaign platforms. He criticised PNC leader Aubrey Norton’s campaign launch and dismissed newcomer Azruddin Mohammed’s movement as lacking credibility and policy substance.

“Norton had 1,200 persons and called it a green wave. Mohammed had 300, half of whom he paid, and called it a blue wave,” he said. “If they had a wave, this is a tsunami touching Guyana.”

Dr Jagdeo also outlined a list of measures implemented by the PPP/C government over the past five years. These include the distribution of 50,000 house lots, the return of the children’s school cash grant, the doubling of old-age pensions, and the removal of over $50 billion in taxes.

He said public servants have seen wages and salaries increase by over $120 billion annually, while sugar workers, rice farmers, miners, and Amerindian communities have all received targeted support.

“Every group of Guyanese has been helped,” Dr Jagdeo said.

The rally drew a large crowd clad in red, with party activists distributing flyers and merchandise.

Dr Jagdeo concluded with a call for unity and mobilisation across the country. “We’re going to every community — Essequibo, Berbice, the hinterland. Just wait for us. You’ll see the strength of this party across Guyana.”

Several international bodies commit to observing elections

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

As Guyana moves closer to hosting General and Regional Elections on 1 September, Vice President (VP) and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has registered satisfaction that a number of groups have already committed to observing the process.

He made the declaration while addressing members of the media during his weekly press briefing at Freedom House on Thursday.

“We’re quite pleased that so many groups– the OAS, the European Union have all committed themselves to observing the elections here,” Dr Jagdeo stated.

Dr Jagdeo also condemned recent actions of opposition-appointed commissioners, which he noted is an attempt to vilify Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh.

“I’ve seen the attempt to vilify the Chair of GECOM. Every week there’s an attempt to tarnish their image and to criticise her because she takes positions consistent with the law,” he said.

Dr Jagdeo added: “We can expect no better from the three Commissioners representing APNU [A Partnership for National Unity]. They will continue to vilify the Chair…to make it look like there’s an attempt in GECOM to rig the elections.”

He further pointed to accusations by the opposition of a “bloated list” as he rubbished the claims as “nonsense.” The opposition-nominated commissioners had also raised the issue of voting by polling agents, a matter the Vice President views as a distraction.

“Just recently, they tried to sell the issue about polling agents being permitted by GECOM to vote in the places where they’re polling agents as an attempt again by the Chair to side with the PPP…”, Dr Jagdeo said.

He noted, however, that this is not a new issue.

“The issue about polling agents voting in the place where they’re assigned is an old issue and it has been decided a long time ago… in fact, the law has been updated to allow for alternate polling agents being in the place of those polling agents, so they can go and vote,” Dr Jagdeo stated.

Jagdeo: Endorsements driven by government’s achievements, unifying agenda

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP)’s goal of uniting Guyanese under a common agenda of growth and opportunity was once again reinforced by General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo today.

Speaking at his weekly press conference at Freedom House, he emphasised inclusivity, national unity, and the party’s track record of performance as key pillars of its governance and outreach.

Dr Jagdeo condemned what he described as “dog whistle politics” being used by certain opposition figures to sow division along racial lines. He criticised attempts to encourage Afro-Guyanese citizens to remain loyal to the opposition based on ethnicity rather than policy, leadership, or vision for the future.

“Ignore the failures, the betrayal, the lack of plans. Support them just because of race,” Dr Jagdeo said, calling out the opposition’s strategy as dangerously divisive. He recalled that during earlier years, opposition figures discouraged Afro-Guyanese from applying for government-initiated GOAL scholarships, a move he interpreted as an attempt to prevent their upliftment.

Addressing recent endorsements of President Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP by several former opposition members and small-party leaders, Dr Jagdeo made it clear that the PPP welcomes all Guyanese—regardless of political background—who wish to contribute to national progress.

“You don’t have to be a party member to be welcomed into our collective,” he said, citing former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds as a respected example of non-partisan collaboration within the PPP/C administration.

He stressed that the party does not require new supporters to “prove” themselves by publicly denouncing their former affiliations.

“We don’t rub people’s noses in the dust. We treat people with dignity,” Dr Jagdeo noted, contrasting this approach with that of the opposition, which he said demands absolute loyalty and repudiation of defectors’ past associations.

He also responded to media narratives suggesting internal discontent among long-serving PPP members over the growing support from former APNU+AFC figures.

“PPP supporters are happy because they see people recognising that we are changing the country. We’ve always focused on building a multi-ethnic national party from the days of Cheddi Jagan,” he asserted.

He added that while there may be small pockets of dissatisfaction related to local issues, such as garbage collection or drainage, PPP supporters still believe in the party’s capacity to resolve these matters.

“They support the PPP because they see things getting better—and they know it will continue to improve if we stay in government.”

Highlighting the futility of attempts by opposition forces to create dissatisfaction within PPP ranks, Dr Jagdeo pointed to ongoing efforts by political opponents to distort unity as weakness.

He referenced recent endorsements such as that of former Vice President under the previous administration, Sydney Allicock, who has publicly supported President Ali’s leadership based on the evident transformation across the country.

Dr Jagdeo also took a light jab at opposition leader Aubrey Norton, who publicly rejected any notion of personal friendship with him.

“It really bothered him that I referred to him as my friend,” Dr Jagdeo quipped, suggesting that Norton is under pressure from his base not to appear conciliatory.

He reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to inclusive development, respect for diversity, and a forward-looking agenda.

“Our focus is winning the next election so we can continue to transform this country. And every Guyanese—regardless of race or political history—has a role to play in that journey.”

Several prominent figures and former members of rival political parties have publicly endorsed President Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), crediting their switch to the government’s achievements and its vision for Guyana’s future.

Investments positively impacting hinterland communities

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Head of the Hinterland Affairs Committee and Regional Councillor Melrose Henry has expressed profound gratitude on behalf of Region Two’s indigenous communities for the government’s continued commitment to their development.
Presenting her committee’s report at the recent Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting, Councillor Henry said the transformation taking place in hinterland villages is a direct result of the government’s proactive and people-centred policies.
“The residents of our indigenous communities are deeply thankful to His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs for fulfilling their promises and delivering real results,” she said, contending that “We are seeing improvements that were long hoped for, now becoming a reality.”
She pointed to the success of the recently concluded National Toshao Council (NTC) Conference, where toshaos from Region Two had the opportunity to engage directly with national leaders. Many of their concerns were addressed, and commitments were fulfilled promptly.
One notable example was the delivery of a 40-horsepower engine to the Ulele Primary School in St. Monica, Upper Pomeroon. This was a long-standing request from the community to help children get to school safely and efficiently.
In response to another direct appeal, a 75-horsepower engine was also provided to St. Monica Primary School. Both were made possible through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.
Additionally, each of the 10 Amerindian communities in the region received $3 million for home improvement initiatives, and an extra $1 million each to upgrade their community sports grounds.
“This support is making a tremendous difference. It’s not just about infrastructure — it’s about dignity, quality of life, and opportunities for our people. The government has delivered, and we are truly grateful,” she said.
She also highlighted ongoing projects, such as the construction of a covered shelter in Capoey to protect students from the rain while commuting to school.
Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit echoed these sentiments, praising the government’s vision for equitable development. He encouraged community leaders to ensure transparency and accountability as projects are implemented.

Regional Executive Officer Susannah Saywack, who was also present at the NTC Conference, noted that the Vice President’s commitment to improving living standards in hinterland areas is evident in every initiative.

Jagdeo: AFC criticisms are like ‘Lucifer lecturing angels on sin’

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Describing the Alliance For Change’s (AFC) recent comments as “hypocritical,” General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday defended the government’s economic management and governance record.

He slammed the AFC for criticising taxation policies and public sector governance—areas in which he said the coalition itself had a damaging track record.

Speaking at his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Dr. Jagdeo dismissed the AFC’s remarks as “hollow and deceitful,” stating, “Imagine the AFC talking about taxation – it’s like Lucifer going to heaven and lecturing the angels on how not to sin.”

He reminded the public that between 2015 and 2020, the AFC-led coalition imposed VAT on electricity, water, healthcare, baby food, and hinterland travel, while also introducing nearly 200 new taxes and fees.

According to Dr. Jagdeo, the coalition collected $94 billion more in annual revenue through these measures, yet claimed it was broke. “They had the money but chose to spend it on perks like overseas healthcare for ministers while removing cash grants from schoolchildren,” he said, adding that the decisions were not driven by fiscal necessity but by “skewed priorities.”

In contrast, Dr. Jagdeo said the PPP administration has reduced taxes, removed VAT on essential goods and services, and stayed faithful to its manifesto commitments.

“We lowered taxes, removed burdens, and channelled spending into infrastructure and human development—that’s how we prioritized growth,” he stated.

Dr. Jagdeo also pointed to significant improvements in both the public and private sectors since the PPP returned to office in 2020.

“In the public sector alone, wages have increased by roughly $500 million more annually compared to 2020, directly benefiting over 60,000 workers,” he said.

He highlighted job creation in industries such as fast food, hospitality, and transportation, saying more Guyanese now enjoy increased disposable income and financial stability.

“The rise in aggregate deposits in the banking sector proves that our people are earning, saving, and spending more. That’s a clear sign of growing prosperity,” he added.

Turning to healthcare, Dr. Jagdeo cited the construction of 12 new public hospitals as evidence of real reform, not just rhetoric.

Six of these, including the $30 million Diamond Hospital, are set to open by September. Larger facilities are also under construction in New Amsterdam and Ogle.

“These public hospitals will be on par with the best in the private sector,” he noted, encouraging journalists to visit these health facilities for themselves. Dr. Jagdeo recalled the poor state of the health system inherited from the coalition, including limited testing capacity and a shortage of medical oxygen during the early days of the pandemic.

“We moved from 40 COVID-19 tests per day under the coalition to 5,000 under our administration. We brought in international experts, cleared $10 billion worth of expired drugs, and reconfigured our health system to meet real needs,” he explained.

Dr. Jagdeo reiterated the PPP’s commitment to meaningful transformation in both governance and service delivery, stressing that ongoing reforms—particularly in healthcare—are rooted in action, not slogans.

Dr. Jagdeo: Infrastructure investment key to sustained growth

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has defended the government’s ongoing investment in infrastructure, saying it is critical to Guyana’s future development and regional connectivity.

Addressing members of the media during his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo dismissed opposition claims that the government is spending “too much” on roads and construction, calling their position “short-sighted and lacking in vision.”

He highlighted several major infrastructure projects currently underway or in the pipeline, including the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.

He pointed out that, with airlines such as KLM recently resuming direct flights to Europe, Guyana is positioning itself as a strategic transit hub for the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

“People are spending more time on the roads than with their families or in leisure activities,” Jagdeo said. “We are committed to modernising this country’s infrastructure—whether the opposition likes it or not.”

Work is progressing on a four-lane highway from Georgetown to Timehri and from New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek, creating a seamless transportation link from the Berbice border all the way to CJIA.

Additionally, the government is planning new bridges and expanded roadways to better serve Region Three and the East Coast corridor, where over 20,000 new house lots are being developed.

Dr. Jagdeo explained that these developments will also include service roads to accommodate utility infrastructure, such as Guyana Power and Light’s transmission systems, helping to reduce congestion on main roads.

Turning to the economy, he dismissed the opposition’s rhetoric that infrastructure spending is hurting the average citizen.

“They say you can’t eat roads,” he said. “But people drive on roads. Roads are essential for mobility, for economic activity, and for connecting communities.”

The General Secretary pointed to economic indicators showing that more Guyanese are buying vehicles—with over 40,000 expected to be purchased this year—and that the public and private sectors are experiencing growth in both employment and disposable income.

He also revealed that public sector wages have increased by over $105 billion annually since the PPP returned to office, with private sector income and bank savings showing strong upward trends.

“More people are working now—in hotels, fast food outlets, expanded taxi services. People who couldn’t earn in 2020 are earning today,” he stated. “The banking sector tells the real story—savings and deposits have grown massively. That’s a clear sign of growing prosperity.”

Dr. Jagdeo rejected the opposition’s claims that citizens are worse off now than before, arguing that such narratives ignore the facts and mislead the public.

“If you listen to them, you’d think Guyana has regressed. But the evidence shows progress, tangible, measurable, and widespread.”

More land, storage, drying facilities, and support for Region Two farmers

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

President Irfaan Ali has announced a comprehensive plan to expand and strengthen the agriculture sector in Region Two, including the opening of 20,000 acres of land, new storage and drying facilities, and a co-investment strategy to support farmers.

The President made the announcement during a meeting with rice farmers, cash crop producers, and fisherfolk at the Anna Regina Secondary School auditorium on Saturday.

“We are opening 20,000 acres of land in three agricultural clusters in this region. These lands will be developed by the government, with capital investments and seed paddy provided to help eliminate the need for rented lands,” President Ali stated.

President Ali speaks to Region Two farmers
President Ali speaks to Region Two farmers

He noted that over 1,000 farmers in Region Two currently rent land, which limits their long-term growth. To address this, the new agricultural clusters will also be equipped with shared machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters. These will be managed by the farmers themselves, with responsibilities shared among them to reduce costs and improve productivity.

“Farmers with 30 acres or less will have the option to choose either a cash grant or fertiliser support,” the President added. “We are a government you can trust—through good times and bad.”

In response to farmers’ concerns about post-harvest challenges, President Ali announced that two modern drying and storage facilities will be constructed in Region Two. The tenders for these facilities will be issued within two weeks.

The President also unveiled plans to enhance agricultural extension services, including the establishment of a control centre to provide farmers with 24/7 access to guidance and information. In addition, mobile container offices will be set up across the region to offer in-person support.

“To promote sustainable agriculture, we are encouraging medium-scale farmers to dedicate one acre out of every ten to a specific high-value crop. The government will assist in making these ventures successful,” he said.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who accompanied the President, highlighted recent improvements in the rice and cash crop sectors under the current administration.

He recalled that two years ago, paddy prices were at a historic low. The government negotiated with millers and today they pay $4,000 per bag of paddy. This crop, 70,000 bags have been purchased by the Guyana Rice Development Board.

Jagdeo rebukes Venezuela’s sham elections, chides opposition ‘walkout’

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

The elections held by Venezuela to appoint a governor over Guyana’s Essequibo region were nothing but a desperate and fraudulent sham.

This was the position of General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, as he spoke during his weekly press conference on Thursday.

“Those elections were a failure by any standard. It was such a failure that the Vice President of Venezuela had to resort to a blatant lie,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo was referencing a video in which the captain of a boat was transporting passengers between Vreed-en-Hoop and Stabroek Stellings.

Venezuela’s Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, used that video and suggested that individuals were being transported to vote for a governor in their sham elections.

“That’s the level of fakeness and desperation in the Venezuelan regime. Something that could have easily been debunked to delude themselves that people were gonna cross the border to vote in these elections that purported to elect a governor…and other officials for the Essequibo,” Dr. Jagdeo explained.

There were no reports of anyone crossing the border to vote in these illegal elections.

Dr. Jagdeo described this as a rejection of the imaginary Venezuelan authority over the Essequibo.

“Nobody wants to be part of Venezuela. This is sovereign Guyanese territory. They recognise that this is one of Maduro’s gambits to deflect attention from his worries at home,” he pointed out.

Meanwhile, the General Secretary also chided the opposition for grandstanding during the last sitting of the National Assembly when they walked out while a motion on the border controversy was being debated.

The motion sought to reaffirm the National Assembly’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and denounce Venezuela’s attempt to claim authority over the Essequibo region via sham elections.

“He caused us now [to see] one of the first times in history…where we didn’t have full solidarity on the 1899 Award…they walked out on condemning Venezuela for defying the ICJ’s provisional ruling…that’s what they walked out on,” he posited.

On May 25, journalists who visited communities close to the Venezuelan border in Region One (Barima-Waini) were informed by residents that no campaigning for an election of that nature took place before the date, nor were there any moves from Venezuelans to canvas votes for a governor of the region. (DPI)

Jagdeo: ‘We are ready for elections’

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, said the party is ready for the upcoming September 1 elections, hinting that the Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates are likely to remain the same.

Speaking during his weekly press briefing at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo said the party is looking forward to the elections and will campaign on its track record and stewardship.

“We are ready for those elections, and we’re looking to win those elections…we’ve consistently been the sole party that has fought for people’s freedom, for democracy, and to ensure that all Guyanese can prosper. That track record can be supported by clear evidence as to the change in the socio-economic status of our country and the well-being of our people,” he told reporters.

According to Jagdeo, the PPP has been consistent in implementing plans, and President Dr. Irfaan Ali has delivered to the people of the country.

Dr. Jagdeo added that President Ali has led Guyana’s transformation from the front, is strong in stature internationally, and has successfully represented the country.

The president, he said, is also knowledgeable of every aspect of government.

“We are led by the right person. We have Dr. Irfaan Ali who has been the president for several years and will be our presidential candidate, who’s had a wealth of experience as a minister in the government… He at one time held the combined portfolio of tourism, water and housing…He’s recognised now as an international statesman,” he said.

Asked whether a date was set for the party to officially name its presidential candidate, Dr. Jagdeo said this will be done on nomination day.

“What I told you today, these are my views as Bharrat Jagdeo. I will give you the confirmed thing about what will happen later, the confirmed presidential and prime ministerial candidate when the time comes…I think Irfaan Ali did a fantastic job and Mark Phillips great job as Prime Minister,” he posited.

Jagdeo questions Mohamed’s integrity, sincerity to serve the people

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has challenged the integrity of businessman Azruddin Mohamed in light of criminal charges laid against him, questioning the sincerity of his bid for political office.

Speaking at his weekly press briefing, Jagdeo’s remarks came hours after Mohamed appeared in court to answer tax evasion and fraud charges related to the under-invoicing of a US$695,000 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster, which he allegedly declared to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) at only US$75,300.

The GRA claims the falsified invoice resulted in over $383 million in lost tax revenue.

Jagdeo accused Mohamed and his supporters of attempting to reframe the legal proceedings as political persecution.

“They want you to believe these charges are because he announced a run for the presidency,” Jagdeo said, referencing Mohamed’s recent declaration that he will contest the next general elections. “They invoke the name of God and play the victim in the public domain.”

In a direct challenge to Mohamed’s claims of moral leadership, Jagdeo said, “He promised to uphold integrity. Now you decide for yourself if the word ‘integrity’ can be associated with the Mohameds.”

He pointed to Mohamed’s social media presence and public relations efforts, which portray a carefully curated image of benevolence. But Jagdeo urged citizens to look beyond the surface.

“It is in unguarded moments that you see the true nature of individuals,” he said, referencing a recent viral outburst in which Mohamed used foul language toward a reporter when confronted by the press outside court.

“If a member of the PPP or even the PNC had done that, there would’ve been a thousand condemnations,” Jagdeo added. “This is the kind of person we’re dealing with—one who explodes when asked to account for his actions.”

In his remarks, Jagdeo also revived a chilling incident from November 2010, reported by Stabroek News, in which three security guards were allegedly tortured after being accused of theft at Mohamed’s family-owned business. The guards—a 62-year-old, a 56-year-old, and a 59-year-old—were allegedly beaten with baseball bats, gagged, doused with soapy water, and threatened with death by employees at Mohamed’s Lombard Street premises. Two guards reportedly suffered broken bones and serious injuries.

Jagdeo noted that Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, Azruddin’s father, later apologised for the incident. “This apology was made quietly, away from cameras. That’s the real nature of these individuals,” he stated. He further criticised the apparent double standards in media portrayal, saying Mohamed’s charitable work has been amplified by sympathetic media outfits while serious allegations against him are downplayed.

The Vice President cautioned citizens not to be swayed by online campaigns. “You can put on a suit and tie and craft any image with the right social media team, but when confronted, the truth surfaces,” he said.

Mohamed, who remains out on $500,000 bail, has denied wrongdoing and maintains that the charges are politically motivated. His case is scheduled to return to court on June 26, 2025.