News Source Guyana Reports : Aubrey Norton, the leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), has confirmed his intention to remain at the helm of the party while explicitly ruling out another run for the presidency.
During an appearance on the Buxtonian Morning Show on Tuesday, Norton addressed his political future, noting that he will be 73 years old by the time the next general elections arrive. Instead of seeking the presidency, he stated his primary focus is now on mentoring a new generation of leadership within the party.
“I have said that I will continue to be leader of the party, but by the next elections… I don’t see myself running,” Norton said. “I believe our task is to breed a generation of politicians.”
He highlighted his role in selecting the current cohort of 12 Parliamentarians, describing it as a deliberate effort to prepare individuals capable of meeting future political challenges. Regarding a successor, Norton clarified that he has not yet endorsed any candidate, stating he intends to “prepare a platform for all the potential leaders to blossom” before a final decision is made on a presidential candidate.
Norton’s leadership has faced intense scrutiny following the party’s performance in last year’s elections, which saw the APNU umbrella coalition lose 19 parliamentary seats and control of every Regional Council.
Addressing internal dissent, Norton suggested that his consolidation of power within the party is a strategic necessity to prevent damaging factions. He expressed frustration that, unlike previous party congresses where members traditionally rallied behind the incumbent leader, he has faced persistent internal opposition.
“There were those, many of whom who were new, who did not work in that way,” Norton remarked, adding that he is actively working to counter these divisions, which he believes harm the party’s progress.
As the party prepares for upcoming meetings of the General Council and the Central Executive Committee, speculation continues regarding the future direction of the PNCR. Critics within the party have pointed not only to the recent electoral losses but also to the recent departure of several key figures Norton had previously handpicked for leadership roles.
Norton indicated he is currently evaluating all strategic factors, including the increasing influence of social media, to ensure the party is adequately prepared for the next national election cycle.
