On December 18, 2025, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced a one-month, tax-free bonus for members of the Disciplined Services during the Guyana Defence Force’s Christmas Luncheon at Base Camp Stephenson. This initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to the welfare and professional development of the disciplined services.
The bonus will inject an additional $2.1 billion into the hands of over 13,000 members, enhancing their disposable income. “Over the past five years, we have not only restored the one-month tax-free bonus to the disciplined services, but we have also increased salaries, adjusted scales upward, accelerated promotions, improved working conditions, and expanded training opportunities,” President Ali stated.
He revealed that more than $6 billion has been allocated to the disciplined services through the bonus initiative, which was first restored in 2020 and expanded in 2023 to include civilian employees of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
In addition to financial support, the President emphasized the government’s focus on preparing soldiers for life after active service. Thousands within the joint services are currently benefitting from the GOAL (Guyana Online Academy of Learning) Scholarship Programme. President Ali urged the Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that every soldier is registered in the Guyana Digital School, with a minimum requirement to pursue Mathematics and English.
“We are preparing you to live a life of honour and dignity long after you retire. As you serve today, you must also be able to enjoy the enormous benefits of this economy tomorrow, because you deserve it,” he commented.
Describing the annual Christmas Luncheon as a cherished tradition, the President highlighted the practice of senior officers, along with the Commander-in-Chief, serving meals to junior ranks, which he sees as a powerful symbol of fellowship and humility within the defence force.
“That simple but deeply symbolic observance speaks powerfully to who we are as a defence force. Authority is expressed through service, and leadership is demonstrated through humility,” he noted, stressing that every rank has its value and contribution matters.
President Ali commended the GDF for its performance over the past year, particularly in protecting Guyana’s borders and upholding national sovereignty amidst regional and global uncertainties.
“The uniform you wear is more than a symbol of authority. It is a pledge to the people of Guyana that their safety, their freedom, and their national patrimony will be defended. That pledge is being honoured,” he affirmed.
He reiterated Guyana’s commitment to strengthening defense capabilities, maintaining a professional and well-prepared force, and deepening partnerships through defense cooperation and diplomacy to promote regional stability and combat transnational crime.
