APNU Member of Parliament Dr. Dexter Todd has voiced concerns over the 2026 national budget, arguing that it falls short in several critical areas requiring urgent attention. While he acknowledged that some measures in the budget support the populace, he criticized the government’s failure to engage widely with Guyanese society before preparing the fiscal plan.
Dr. Todd asserted, “A manifesto is not a national developmental plan for Guyana. When the Honourable members on that side come to this house and make it seem as though the people support it, they must be reminded of the percentage of Guyanese who cast their votes for you; it is not a reflection of the people of Guyana.”
He emphasized that the government’s lack of consultation with key stakeholders has become a defining feature of the PPP/C administration. Todd expressed concern that such practices suggest a belief that the government alone possesses the ideas necessary for national progress, effectively sidelining elected officials and reputable civil society representatives from contributing to the national discourse.
“You cannot present a budget and make it seem as though it had national consultation when you fail to engage with the wider community, civil society, the Opposition, and all relevant entities,” he stated.
To address these issues, Dr. Todd proposed the formation of a national developmental committee that includes diverse entities and stakeholders. He highlighted the critical issue of poverty, urging the government to allocate resources meaningfully for poverty alleviation.
Furthermore, he criticized the budget for not addressing challenges highlighted by the Guyana Elections Commission. He noted that while the government appears to overlook serious electoral issues, the 2025 electoral observer mission reports indicate a pressing need for reform.
Dr. Todd’s remarks reflect ongoing concerns regarding governance, inclusion, and the need for comprehensive national planning in Guyana.
