News Source Guyana Reports | The Opposition party, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), is urging the Government to fulfill its promise of a cash grant of at least $150,000 to citizens of Guyana. On Monday, the APNU organized a small picketing exercise outside the President’s Office to emphasize the urgency of the cash transfer.
Leading the demonstration, APNU Parliamentary Leader Dr. Terrence Campbell expressed that, alongside the cash grant, a comprehensive program is necessary to effectively address poverty. He pointed to alarming statistics, indicating that over half of the population is living in poverty.
“Listen, there are people who are suffering in this country. A recent report from the IDB shows that 58% of the population lives in poverty,” Dr. Campbell stated. “We in the APNU are not only concerned about a cash grant but a broader program to help those in need.”
He emphasized that their 2025 Manifesto includes a detailed plan aimed at alleviating poverty, which encompasses cash transfers and social programs to tackle underlying issues.
Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul highlighted that all major political parties, including the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), promised cash grants during the last elections to alleviate the rising cost of living. He insisted that it is now time for the government to keep its commitment.
“You made a promise. It is expected that you keep that promise,” he asserted, noting that those opposing cash distribution often belong to wealthier segments of society that do not face the same financial hardships. MP Mahipaul remarked, “The ones seeking the cash transfer are those who want a beautiful Christmas.”
With Guyana producing over 900,000 barrels of oil per day, he argued that the funds necessary for the cash transfer are ample. He calculated that a minimum $150,000 grant for 600,000 people would total $90 billion, and he indicated that a proposed increase to $200,000 would amount to $120 billion.
MP Dexter Todd emphasized the urgent need for the cash grant, stating, “We are failing to recognize that Guyana still has an alarming level of unemployment. Many qualified individuals are at home without jobs, and single parents are struggling to provide for their families.”
Todd highlighted that the APNU intends to advocate for statutory timelines for cash transfers in Parliament, stressing that this should not be left solely to the government’s discretion.
The picketing event also included members of the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP). ALP Leader Simona Broomes underscored the need for clear timelines regarding the disbursement of cash grants, asserting that citizens are not benefiting from the nation’s wealth as they should.
“Every year, there must be a defined policy on how wealth transfer occurs. It should not be used as a political tool,” she stated.
On Friday, the APNU called upon the Government to initiate the approval process for the proposed cash transfers in Parliament to ensure timely distribution. President Irfaan Ali has previously indicated his commitment to fulfilling this campaign promise.
