With citizens continuing to voice concerns over the rising cost of living, the opposition party, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), is calling on the government to initiate the distribution of the promised cash grants.
At a press conference on Friday, MP Sherod Duncan expressed growing frustration over the government’s silence regarding the start date for disbursing the $100,000 cash grant to eligible citizens. He noted that as the cost of food rises, many Guyanese are increasingly worried about delays in the cash grant rollout.
“I think Guyanese people continue to feel the harshness of the high cost of living in this country on a daily basis,” Duncan stated. “Despite the funds being allocated in the budget, people are asking when they can expect the cash grant.”
The National Assembly has approved a total of $72.5 billion for distributing the cash grant to over 716,261 people, including provisions for nearly 14,000 individuals turning 18 this year. During the first round, more than 600,000 Guyanese aged 18 and older registered for the grant.
Duncan urged the government to act quickly, arguing that immediate distribution of the cash grant would significantly benefit many who are struggling. He criticized the government for focusing on infrastructure projects while neglecting the cash grant initiative.
Also addressing the issue, MP Saiku Andrews emphasized that the government’s focus on infrastructure neglects the everyday struggles of citizens. “The president dismisses the notion that you cannot eat roads,” Andrews remarked, adding that people need jobs and financial support rather than just infrastructure development. He noted the lack of updated data on unemployment, particularly youth unemployment, which exacerbates the situation.
Andrews further criticized the 2026 National Budget for failing to implement measures that genuinely alleviate poverty and address the rising cost of living. He stressed the need for the government to take stronger action in reducing food prices and making basic amenities more affordable to ease the burden on citizens.
