Rickford Burke, President of the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID), has issued a strong statement urging the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) to compromise in their ongoing coalition negotiations. In a post on social media, Burke emphasized that anything less would be a betrayal of the people’s will, particularly as the general elections approach on September 1, 2025.
Burke’s remarks were partly a response to a statement from AFC Leader Nigel Hughes, who defended his party’s position in the coalition talks. Burke expressed frustration with the current state of negotiations, arguing that both parties are failing to unite despite a clear mandate from opposition voters for collaboration to challenge the ruling PPP.
“The opposition parties must unite as one to depose the PPP at the polls,” Burke stated, highlighting the overwhelming demand from the electorate for a cohesive front. He criticized both parties for their reluctance to compromise, suggesting that their hardened positions are fueled by self-interest rather than the needs of the people.
“Their arguments are exhausting and have been heard ad nauseam,” he noted, urging the leaders to focus on practical solutions rather than defending their individual party ideals. Burke suggested that both parties should abandon unreasonable demands and instead work towards a coalition that prioritizes the collective goal of defeating the PPP.
He proposed that a point of compromise could involve a rotation of leadership within the coalition, including the presidency. Burke criticized both parties for their fixation on cabinet positions and percentages in Parliament, calling it premature and misguided.
“The coalition talks failed because their priorities are backwards,” he argued. “They should be negotiating a coalition campaign structure and leadership team rather than squabbling over positions.”
As the election date approaches, Burke’s call for unity and action resonates with many in the opposition, who are eager for effective leadership that reflects the will of the people. “Get on with the mission of forming a coalition,” he urged, emphasizing the need to mobilize resources and candidates to challenge the current government effectively.
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