Aubrey Norton, the Presidential Candidate for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has unveiled his party’s ambitious plans ahead of the upcoming General and Regional Elections, emphasizing that these initiatives are necessary, affordable, and sustainable.
Norton stated that his plans include guaranteeing all households a livable income, controlling inflation, and reducing poverty. However, the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has dismissed these proposals as unrealistic.
In his defense, Norton explained that expenditures aimed at raising personal and household incomes would constitute no more than 30% of the national budget in the first year, amounting to approximately $400 billion in new spending. Key components of his economic plan include:
$100 billion for salary increases.
$40 billion to raise the tax-free threshold to $400,000 per month for over 200,000 workers and self-employed individuals.
$53 billion to increase the old-age pension from $41,000 to $100,000 per month for 74,000 pensioners.
$9 billion for a student stipend program for tertiary institutions.
$25 billion for a childcare allowance program.
“The APNU Coalition government will not shy away from investing in people,” Norton asserted, viewing it as a moral and constitutional obligation to address the needs and expectations of citizens. He highlighted the stark contrast between Guyana’s per capita GDP, comparable to that of the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, and the high poverty levels ranging from 35% to 42%.
Norton expressed confidence in achieving key UN Sustainable Development Goals before the 2030 deadline, including poverty elimination, food security, equitable education, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
He emphasized that the coalition’s economic development plan would be data-driven, acknowledging the volatility of oil prices while advocating for economic diversification to ensure multiple revenue streams.
Additionally, Norton criticized government corruption, stating, “Our programmes will not be riddled with corruption as the PPP’s are. With effective management, we can reduce corruption, allowing for more resources to benefit the Guyanese people.”
Looking ahead, Norton noted that the expansion of the oil sector presents greater opportunities to improve the lives of citizens, reinforcing his commitment to a well-managed government focused on the welfare of its people.
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