The newly formed Forward Guyana Movement launched its “Contract with Guyana” on Tuesday, emphasizing a commitment described as a moral obligation rather than a conventional political manifesto. The event took place at the Bransville Hotel, where party leader Amanza Walton-Desir proclaimed that the document aims to “return power to the people.”
“This is not just another day in politics. It’s a turning point – a contract between the people and the party,” Walton-Desir declared, outlining key commitments addressing pressing national concerns such as the rising cost of living, community empowerment, national unity, and the enhancement of governance, transparency, and accountability.
A former parliamentarian under the APNU, Walton-Desir stressed that the initiative extends beyond mere slogans and campaign promises. “No more betrayal, no more excuses… We refuse to settle. People want real change and they deserve it,” she stated, criticizing the current status quo that leaves many citizens feeling marginalized despite the nation’s wealth.
The development of the contract involved consultations with a panel of experts, economists, and civil society representatives. “This is a movement built on ideas and integrity,” she affirmed.
Economic Fairness and Housing
Dorwin Bess, a principal of the party, spoke on economic fairness and housing, asserting that “housing and land in Guyana belong to the people.” He proposed subsidies that would allow families to afford land and homes priced at $10 million for a payment of $300,000. Bess also promised a revised housing policy and equitable land distribution while supporting Walton-Desir’s commitment to renegotiate oil contracts to directly benefit citizens.
A New Political Model
Nicholas Chesney, the party’s election agent, reiterated calls for a new political model that transcends racial and fear-based politics. “This is not about rotating faces. It’s about rebuilding the foundation,” he said, emphasizing a government that listens and involves citizens in the policy-making process. “Power doesn’t belong to a few. It belongs in communities, in collaboration, in ideas – not in bloodlines.”
A Fighter’s Call
The Movement’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Nigel London, framed his candidacy as a fight for justice and dignity. He pledged to prioritize quality healthcare, affordable housing, better education, and decent wages, while also committing to fostering a participatory democracy. “Real change doesn’t come from the top down. It rises from the people up,” he asserted.
A National Call to Action
In closing, Walton-Desir urged attendees to not only sign the contract with ink but with action, stating, “Together, we can fix what is broken.” With less than a month until the General and Regional Elections on September 1, Forward Guyana is poised to contest and win, while emphasizing its mission to “liberate the people from political hopelessness and place power firmly in their hands.”
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