Aubrey Norton Outlines APNU’s Commitment to Disciplined Services Ahead of Elections
News Source Guyana Reports : Aubrey Norton, the presidential candidate for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), addressed the Disciplined Services today, laying out his party’s proposals as they prepare to vote on August 22, just nine days before the September 1 elections.
At a press conference, Norton emphasized the party’s commitment to improving the lives of members of the Disciplined Services, promising enhanced pay, better working and living conditions, and additional benefits.
“We have listened to the concerns of our Soldiers and Police. We understand their challenges, and as the next government, the APNU coalition will respond by increasing their salary by up to 35%, along with yearly bonuses. We will also implement a cash transfer of $100,000 starting in our first year and raise the minimum wage and starting salary to at least $200,000 a month,” Norton declared.
In addition to salary increases, Norton outlined plans to provide benefits such as rent-to-own housing, subsidies for water and electricity, and child allowances. He assured that promotions and training scholarships would be merit-based.
Norton announced the establishment of an expert commission to review service conditions and make recommendations for improving the living conditions of officers stationed at various locations. He specifically highlighted the need for better barrack conditions for soldiers, particularly those in infantry units and stationed at border locations.
“We will better equip the army with advanced equipment and armaments, especially for units tasked with protecting our borders and ensuring national security,” he stated, adding that there is a pressing need to enhance the technical skills of soldiers in areas like computer technology, construction, and agriculture.
Addressing issues within the Guyana Police Force, Norton called for a significant overhaul, criticizing the current leadership for serving the interests of the ruling party rather than the citizens. “The Police Force is a stooge of the PPP/C and is misused by this regime,” he asserted. “We know there are good people in the police force who support the APNU, but they find themselves in a difficult position.”
Norton urged police officers to consider their vote carefully, stating, “Vote APNU and you will be free.” He also pledged to replace the Commissioner of Police with someone who commands the respect of the entire force.
As the elections approach, Norton’s promises aim to garner support from the Disciplined Services, emphasizing a vision of improved conditions and respect for their roles.
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