New Nation, December Issue 2022

NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS 2023

By Aubrey C. Norton, MP Leader of the Opposition & Leader of the PNCR

fellow Guyanese, HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!

Permit me to extend felicitations to your family, friends and to all Guyanese, including those in the Diaspora and those in Guyana for the Christmas holidays.

Ideally, we would like all Guyanese to be happy. Unfortunately, during 2022, our quality of life declined as is manifest by the IDB Report and many other credible reports by international organisations.

As Guyanese, we confronted greater problems and hardships under a government that simply lacks compassion and competence. We face a high cost of living, which saw many families struggling to feed and care for themselves and their children.

We endured more rampant ethnic and political discrimination. This led to certain groups unduly benefiting more than others, and certain communities being better treated than others. We believe that all Guyanese and all communities should benefit. Unfortunately, this is not the case in present day Guyana. From our outreaches we have witnessed poverty among all Guyanese and we commit ourselves to addressing this issue so that all Guyanese can be removed from the breadline and poverty.

Guyana today is not a society based on democracy and the Rule of Law. We are forced to withstand more and more attacks on our human rights and personal liber-

ties. We continue to experience trumped-up political charges against the opponents of the government. They are becoming increasingly more arrogant, exclusionary, and lawless. The actions of the government threaten social cohesion and make us distant from realizing our motto of One People, One Nation, One Destiny.

Throughout these difficulties in 2022, we continued to fight, alongside our people, for a better quality of life. We visited and listened to residents in community outreach programmes. We exposed the bad acts of the government and kept the people informed. We proposed relief measures to combat the rising cost of living and constantly pressured the government to do more to help the people. We continue to fight in the courts to defend our Constitution and the rights and freedoms of citizens - rights that are being eroded daily.

In 2022, we engaged the diplomatic community and the US Congress with support from Guyanese in the Diaspora. To those Guyanese we express our heartfelt appreciation. We will continue to engage the diplomatic community and widen the list of countries and international organisations we engage in 2023. The Coalition including the PNCR has placed "boots on the ground" in support of our cause. We engaged in the Parliament, notwithstanding the government's lack of interest in parliamentary democracy.

Fellow Guyanese, under a PPP government, which has now held office for over twenty-five (25) of the last thirty (30) years, our country ranks among the worst on a range of human development or quality-of-life indicators. Guyana remains among the worst countries

in which to live in terms of maternal and infant deaths, life expectancy, child poverty, food security, finding jobs, and educational standards all of which began to improve during the period of the Coalition government between 2015 and 2020. This state of affairs must now be described for what it is: incompetence resulting in a national failure, disgrace and impoverishment of our people while the PPP elite, friends and family enrich themselves at the expense of our people. Many of us, as citizens, experience this national failure and disgrace at a personal level daily in our homes, schools, hospitals, and in our communities.

We believe that we need an approach that ensures our people benefit from our resources. To this end we have advocated for a people-centered development in which the allocation of resources in our society is aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating poverty and giving our people a better quality of life.

In 2023, the situation will get more difficult. The Opposition's focus will remain directed at:

"Ensuring biometrics at the place of poll and a clean voters list to guarantee elections which are free and fair and can win the trust of all Guyanese.

"Keeping the pressure on the government to implement cost of living relief measures.

"Ensuring fair and equitable allocation of our resources to citizens.

"Defending the rights and freedoms of citizens and communities. (Continued on Page )

My

Analysis and Opinions

In Guyana democracy means demons gone crazy

a lanyard so that in the case of a scuffle or sudden movement, the weapon remained under the control of the particular officer.

Next, if the weapon in question is a 9mm pistol, why should the round be in the breech which was apparently the case to allow this outsider to discharge several rounds.

Christmas Greetings

I hope you, your staff and all Guyanese had a peaceful and thoughtful Christmas. A review of incidents which took place before Christmas suggest that at the rate we are going, dictionaries and lexicon determine that democracy in Guyana means demons gone crazy.

Below, I refer to four separate but related incidents. First, the alleged fracas at State House where a Police rank sustained injuries inflicted by a knife wieldingman. This should have warranted a full-scale investigation particularly since the rank was posted to protect our Head of State.

But the reason for returning to this matter is because the Media reported that President Ali visited the injured man and made an on the bed promotion, pinning two stripes on his sleeping garments.

I understand that there is a picture with the two stripes pinned on him by the President in the presence of the Commissioner of Police and the media.

The absurdity of this is palpable for I know of no similar recurrence before or after Independence. Beyond this, there is no evidence to suggest that Mr. Perreria displayed any act of bravery, valor, courage or perceptiveness.

As I understand it, when you carry a pistol, unless you perceive to be in a dangerous situation, there is no need to put a round in the breech. Any trained person can put a round in the breech to render the pistol lethal.

If needed in a split second and as seems to be the case at State House, unless this Nigerian had military training, even if you got hold of the pistol and there is no round in the breach, an ordinary person pulling the trigger would soon find out that there can be no discharge.

What is more worrisome about this on-the-bed promotion, is that there is in circulation a suggestion that this man attacked a Constable for a purely personal and intimate reason. Not unusual in a society where morality is constantly in question.

Did the President or his Advisors seek to find out why this Nigerian wanted to speak with the President before he rushed to make this on-the-bed-promotion?

What is even more worrisome is that the general public seem to be losing confidence in the Guyana Police Force. This incident being so badly managed will not help to improve the image of the Guyana Police Force. A dangerous situation.

Fellow Guyanese, Season Greetings and Merry Christmas to you and your entire family.

For many, this is not the kind of Christmas we were hoping to celebrate. We had hoped that the blessings of our natural wealth would have brought more personal prosperity, more happiness, and less stress and struggle. Instead, this, our first “oil Christmas”, has arrived with many families worse off than before.

But the Guyanese spirit is indomitable. Despite the hardships, let us celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and remind ourselves that He came on earth to give us love, joy, and hope. Let our hearts therefore be filled with warmth, kindness, and generosity for our families and all others who are dear to us. Let us wish our fellow citizens God’s blessings throughout the season.

Yes, the cost of the living is burdensome. But we know you will still ensure the pepperpot, garlic pork, ginger beer, and black cake taste as delicious as always. We know you will still ensure your children can enjoy the festivities. Let us spare a moment, however, to remember those who, through illnesses or other misfortunes, are unable to celebrate as they would wish. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them.

Christmas season is a time for selflessness, togetherness, the rekindling of our spirits, and the opening of our hearts. As citizens, let us each commit to upholding these Christmas values throughout the coming year so that our nation can become one of the best countries to live in.

Yes, we should be enjoying a happier Christmas. Yes, there should be more joy in the air. But let us make the most of what we have in the hope of a better tomorrow. Let us give thanks unto the Lord for enduring another year.

We end with a quote from Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

In an earlier comment from all we heard behind the usual veil of secrecy is that the persons/officers who posted ranks, who were obviously not trained or illtrained, those Officers responsible ought to have been penalised and any promotion should be after an investigation, which shows the rank or ranks involved were deserving of such.

Information available suggests that the alleged attacker is a Nigerian who indicated earlier that he wished to speak with President Ali.

My training by the British suggests that years after that with utility in the following order is still valid, i.e. boots, baton, bayonet and bullets. Once this man was in the vicinity of the fence of the State House demanding to see the President, then Standard Procedure should require the rank on duty to shout out Stop! Halt! or whatever other words are to be used.

If the person keeps coming forward, an adequately trained rank will immediately adopt a defensive or attack stance and dependent on the speed with which that person keeps coming forward, could throw himself to the ground, and using his boot with known positions to the ankle and knees throw the aggressor to the ground, more often than not this swiftness and dexterity of the rank would cause the assailant to drop whatever weapon he may have in his arms.

Was the rank armed and if so with what. Did he have a whistle, if he needed support?

What is unbelievable and as a citizen and I hope PPP supporters would also join in a demand not to have a recurrence.

How is it that this one man in addition to inflicting wounds on Constable Perreira could also relieve another rank of a 9mm pistol and fire off rounds, but at least we are told of not how many.

In our old days, before you are entrusted with a revolver or pistol, that pistol or revolver is attached to

As you’ve seen in other countries, nearby Haiti where the Police can no longer be relied on to even protect our Head of State much less an ordinary man in the street, we are in deep trouble.

When will we learn? When will we know the truth?

Second, I listened to an audio of Charrandass’ defense of his unacceptable conduct in New Delhi on August 1, 2021. Several times, he apologizes but not before or after justifying his behaviour and seeks to justify his uncouth behaviour in a rather aggressive tone.

Is Mr. Charrandass Persaud still enjoying the perks of office? Has he been reassigned once his Contract terminated, or will this be another State secret?

Listen to this recording of the apology made by Charrandass and judge for yourself where he draws an interesting distinction between males and females.

The third issue is the unfortunate handling of our natural resources and the transfer of State assets and resources to the chosen few, but we will deal with this at another time, even as we listen to Patriots and the voice of the likes of Glenn Lall.

Finally, let me remind the public that our best known and internationally acclaimed artiste, Eddy Grant, expressed an interest in developing a massive cultural facility at the junction of the Demerara River and the Atlantic Ocean. This included utilizing the Luckhoo Swimming Pool named in honour of a previous Mayor, Sir. Lionel Luckhoo.

As Mayor, I was called by the then Head of State of the PPP Administration and told not to proceed since they had something bigger for that area. This turns out to be the building of the Marriott Hotel and in spite of my best efforts at several levels, the Council (M&CC) received not one cent for the Luckhoo Swimming Pool and its environs.

Now that it ought to be making money, why should the Government want to dispose of it, the Marriott?

Three cheers for return to democracy.

PPP’s harum-scarum approach to youth development

Some time ago, Irfaan Ali, during his visit to Leopold Street in Georgetown, utterly exposed that his government has no plan for the development of youths in Guyana. Mr Ali promised jobs to 50 or so youths in the area in housing construction—but, he said, only if they have the “right” skills. He apparently ignored those who may have other skills and interests.

But Mr Ali reportedly hatched a plan should the

youths of Leopold street lack the “right” skills. On the spot, he instructed his Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police to immediately organise a two-week training for interested persons. What! The Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police! Is the government serious? Where is the portfolio minister? Ridiculous!

This is a classic example of the PPP government’s harum scarum, haphazard, and ineffectual planning. For its information, a youth employment scheme should be national in scope and form part of a larger youth policy. Job training should be continuous, be designed to include both technical and soft skills, and (Continued on Page 5)

REGIONALUPDATES

Regional Chairman of Region 7 Kenneth Williams praises regional school for winning football tournament

Flooding at Barnwell North, Mocha

In an end-of-year football school tournament, an 82nd minute goal gave D.C. Caesar Fox Secondary, out of Waramadong in Region #7, their first-ever KFC Goodwill International Schools Football Championship and their first-ever victory in a major tournament.

Coach Artherley Elliman, who has been with the team for several years said, “This victory means much to

me because, from the past, we’ve been playing in this tournament and we’ve come this far for a while now. And to win this tournament now, I have this strong feeling that we will always win this tournament for the coming years.”

The Chairman posted on his Facebook page "Outstanding... DC Fox. We are proud... Congratulations."

Community consultations, Region #10

Newly elected Vice Chairman of Region #10, Mark Goring has spent the past several days grounding with the residents of Kwakwani and other areas of sub-region 2 for which he now holds direct reporting responsibility to the 9th Regional Democratic Council, Region #10.

Vice Chairman Goring met residents, toured several facilities and engaged stakeholders and leaders in these areas to forge areas of collabo-

ration for the future. He has also assured residents of the Wisroc area that he still retains the purview of responsibility for that community and will continue to represent their issues of concern in Council and with other relevant agencies and organisations. The Vice Chairman could be reached via his email address, regionalvicechairman@yahoo.com or 697-5967.

Waramadong in action in the KFC final. (Guyana Times Photo)

Regional Vice Chairman, Mark Goring, iteracting with residents of Kwakwani during his visit to the community.

On Thursday 29th December, Ms. Nima Flue-Bess, MP, along with other members of Parliament and the village Chairman were on the ground interacting with residents and observing for themselves the deliberate flooding of Barnwell North, Mocha.

POLITICAL

All Guyanese must condemn the government and the Guyana Police Force for politically harassing Opposition members

The arrest of His Worship the Mayor of Georgetown, Mr. Ubraj Narine and Member of Parliament, Mr. Sherod Duncan on Wednesday 14th December by the Guyana Police Force is an abuse of power and the politicization of the Guyana Police Force. It is a violation of their right to freedom of speech enshrined in the Constitution. Clearly, the People’s Progressive Party regime does not respect the rule of law and is authoritarian in nature.

It is apposite to note that the police violated the rights of Attorney at Law Tameika Clarke by unlawfully arresting her. The DPP and the police force for several weeks failed to charge the policeman that unlawfully arrested the Attorney. Ms. Clarke exercising her common law right approached the court to obtain redress. After doing so, Ms. Clarke and the Court Bailiff were prevented by the police from serving the charge. Having prevented the issuance of the charge, Guyanese have been greeted by the withdrawal of the charges against the policeman by the DPP. This act of preventing an officer of the court from performing his duties is disrespectful to the Judiciary and a violation of the rule of law. What is worse is that the said Guyana Police Force turns up today in less than forty-eight (48) hours to charge the Mayor of Georgetown and MP Sherod Duncan, both elected officials representing those who elected them. This is political harassment.

The action of the People’s Progressive Party government is a clear violation of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which states in Article 3 that, “the States Parties to the present Covenant undertake to ensure the equal rights of men and women to the enjoyment of all civil and political rights set forth in the present Covenant.” The arrest of Mayor Ubraj Narine and Member of Parliament Sherod Duncan is a clear case of political harassment and the misuse of the Guyana Police Force by the

PPP regime to settle political scores.

It is important to note that the People’s Progressive Party government continues to override the legitimate decisions of the Mayor and City Council by seeking to make decisions that should be made by the City Council which has been elected by the people to manage the affairs of the city. The Ministry of Public Works decision to remove vendors plying their trade on New Market Street without consultation with the City Council has rightfully provoked a reaction from the vendors and the citizens of Georgetown. In this regard, therefore, it is the government through its actions that is inciting ethnic, political and other forms of instability.

All Guyanese would recall that the Mayor from the inception sought to develop a cordial relationship with Central Government. Unfortunately, this was rebuffed and the government proceeded to starve the city of resources and has been intervening in the func-

tions that should be performed by the Mayor and City Council. For example, the Central Government is now moving in the direction of setting up the socalled “single window” which will not only remove key functions from the council but from all local government authorities. The government is antilocal democracy and pursues domination and control of all local authorities. This must be rejected.

All Guyanese would have observed that in response to the vendors at Mon Repos market (a PPP constituency) destroying State Property, the government was prepared to condone these illegal acts and actually met with them in a board room to negotiate and resolve the issues. The criminal actions apart, we believe that it is the correct approach to resolve issues by negotiation. Unfortunately, the government’s approach to the City of Georgetown and other APNU+AFC strongholds has been to use brute force and ignorance. The government’s

Hon. Amanza Walton-Desir,

M.P.

Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs

The Mayor of Georgetown issued an apology ever since. Everything else is simply being orchestrated by the Ali Government to take our attention away from the fact that he and his Ministers are in full violation of both the letter and spirit of the law. Mayor Narine has time and again called for a collaborative approach to the management of the City. He has made it clear to anyone who would listen that he is prepared to work with the Government towards a mutually respectful relationship in the interest of the people of Georgetown. His calls continue to be ignored.

This attitude of bypassing and ignoring the local democratic organs which have been established by law and vested with cer-

approach to these vendors and citizens in the city of Georgetown and other APNU+AFC strongholds such as Mocha is to bulldoze rather than treat them as Guyanese who deserve to be involved in negotiations with the aim of peaceful conflict resolution.

The PPP regime actions are promoting ethnic and political division and creating tensions and disunity in our society.

The government is acting in total violation of its obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

The Opposition condemns the actions of the PPP regime and warns them that they are pushing the people of Guyana to the brink. We urge the people to continue to resist this regime until it is prepared to operate based on the Rule of Law. We call on all Guyanese, especially the people of Georgetown to condemn the actions of the PPP regime and come out in support of the Mayor of Georgetown, Mr. Ubraj Narine and Member of Parliament, Mr. Sherod Duncan.

It is unfortunate that in this season of joy the government chooses to disturb the livelihood of the vendors who are struggling to make an honest living in this post-Covid era. It must be noted as well that the government has failed and continues to fail when it comes to the creation of employment for the people of Guyana. These vendors are seeking an honest living and therefore should not be facing bulldozers, big trucks and armed policemen. What is worse, is that this is occurring at a time when the cost of living is extremely high and the government’s incompetence has resulted in its inability to find solutions to the cost of living crisis.

We stand in full support of the Mayor of Georgetown, Mr. Ubraj Narine and Member of Parliament, Mr. Sherod Duncan. We hope good sense will prevail and the PPP will end its political witch hunt and free the Guyana Police Force from its political control, domination and politicization.

tain powers and functions, while it may fuel the temporary high of the power drunk, will ultimately harm us and stymie our development. We have to change course!

His Worship The Mayor, Councillor Ubraj Narine , my brother, I stand with you. A luta continua, vitoria e certa!

Party Leader Aubrey C, Norton, MP and Mayor Ubraj Narine after his release from the Brickdam police station on Wednesday 14th December 2022.

FEATURE

NCW Regional Conference, Region #10

The National Congress of Women (NCW) on Saturday 10th December 2022 held its annual Regional Conference at the LICHAS Hall in Linden, Region #10 under the theme, “Women Empowered for Decision Making.” The Featured Address (Virtual) was delivered by Ms. Bonita Montaque of the United Bridge Builders Mission.

The NCW also took the opportunity to conclude its 16 Days of Activism campaign against Gander-Based Violence in the Region which was observed on the occasion of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Congratulations to the newly elected Regional Committee members. They are:

Chairperson – Ms. Vanessa Kissoon, who also graduated with Distinction from the University of Guyana over the same weekend with the Associate Degree in Social Work.

Vice Chairperson – Ms. Denise Belgrave

Secretary – Ms. LaToya Williams

Treasurer – Ms. Gail Richards

Assistant Secretary/Treasurer – Ms. Hollis Bristol

Visit to the Corentyne - the discrimination continues

On Sunday 11th December 2022, Leader of the Opposition and the People's National Congress Reform, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, and a team conducted an outreach on the Corentyne, Region #6. The Leader and team visited the Rose Hall market, the Hogstye/Lancaster Community and held a meeting in Liverpool.

The visit to the Corentyne by the Opposition has revealed that the PPP regime continues to discriminate against villages they perceive to be supporters of the APNU+AFC. At both Ulverston and Liverpool the people noted that while in PPP strongholds all the streets are being done, in APNU+AFC support areas little or no work is being done on the roads in the area.

The residents pointed out that the PPP identifies individual AfroGuyanese who they give the crumbs to

and use them to seek to influence persons in the village to vote for the PPP. Most villagers understand this strategy of the PPP and reject it. In such circumstances, people are being threatened that if they do not vote for the PPP their village will be starved of resources. This is a widening of the net to starve APNU+AFC villages of resources as is the case in the townsLinden, New Amsterdam, Bartica, Mahdia and Georgetown. This strategy will continue to fail.

The Leader was accompanied by Members of Parliament Natasha Singh- Lewis, Dineshwar Jaipersaud, Corretta Mc Donald, Dr. Karen Cumming, Nima Flue-Bess and Maureen Philadelphia; Deputy Mayor of New Amsterdam Wainwright McIntosh, Chairman of the GYSM Kibwe Copland, Councilors from the NDCs, local representatives, coalition supporters and staff.

PPP’s harum-scarum approach to youth development

(Continued from Page 2) ... be in sync with individual inclinations and national development needs. Trainees should be given stipends to cover transportation and other basic upkeep. The scheme must cater for both males and females.

And, importantly, young people must not have to await a visit by a Minister or President to hear about job and training opportunities. In a proper youth employment scheme, information must reach youths wherever they live or con-

gregate. We can go on. But, it is obvious that none of these basic planning elements was on display during the PPP’s Leopold Street visit. The youths of Guyana deserve far better. The people of Guyana deserve better.

As youths and the rest of Guyana await a caring and competent government, we can only advise the young men on Leopold Street to meanwhile make the most of the few opportunities that do become available.

Ms. Vanessa Kissoon

Party Leader, Aubrey C. Norton, MP and Team on a walkabout in some of the communites on the Corentyne on Sunday 11th December 2022.

The newly-elected Team

Party Leader, Aubrey C. Norton, MP and Team interacting with some of the residents during his walkbout on the Corentyne on Sun. 11th December 2022.

CHRISTMASCHEER

Robert Wayne Maison delivering hampers to Party Stalwarts on behalf of the Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, on Christmas Eve Day. From left photo are Ms. Joan Baveghems, Ms. Walterine and Ms. Sheila Prescott.

Ms. Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP, returned to her home village of Kako in the Upper Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Region #7 during the Festive Season to conduct her annual Toy and School Supplies distribution to the children

The children of North Sophia are happy with their gifts which were given to them by the Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP on Friday 23rd December 2022.

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP and Ms.Genevieve Allen distributed gifts to the children of Goedverwagting, Plaisance on Fri. 23 December 2022.

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP and Mrs. Volda Lawrence distributed gifts to the children of West Ruimvelt on Wed. 21st December 2022.

CHRISTMASCHEER

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, assisted by Mrs. Volda Lawrence, MP, Councillor Yvonne Ferguson and PR Officer Shaneika Haynes distributed gifts to children of Middle Road, La Penitence on Sat. 17th December 2023.

On Friday 23rd December 2022, His Worship the Mayor Ubraj Narine in collaboration with the PNCR Alberttown #1 Group conducted his annual distribution of Toys and Hampers at this Festive Season in the Queenstown, Alberttown and Kingston areas, Constituency #1. The Mayor is also the Vice Chairman of the Party Group.

Amanza Walton-Desir, MP and the Joy Foundation (Guyana) Inc. in collaboration with the Festival City/North Ruimveldt Group No. 2 teamed up to spread Christmas cheer to children in and around the community.

Regional Chairman of Region #7, Mr. Kenneth Williams celebrated Christmas at school parties in Bartica over the Festive Season. To quote him: The parties and class socials were entertaining. The children and teachers from nursery to secondary were in great spirits and celebrated in fine style with music, games and gifts sharing. This is truly the season of love and joy. And I wish and pray that every child throughout this great Region is remembered, celebrated and made to feel special. Our Children...Our future.

SOCIETY

Party Leader at social event to meet Guyanese born actresss, CCH Pounder

Our messages on UNInternational Human Rights Day and World Anti-Corruption Day

The APNU+AFC joined the rest of the international community to mark International Anti-Corruption Day (on Friday 9th December) and International Human Rights Day (on Saturday 10th December). Given the dire situation in Guyana, citizens must give due attention to these observances.

On International Anti-Corruption Day, our message called on Guyanese TO UNITE TO FIGHT CORRUPTION IN GUYANA. We stated that “as corruption becomes more entrenched in Guyana, fighting it now demands a united approach. Decent and patriotic citizens and organizations must all join forces against corruption.”

to investigate.

Our anti-corruption day message urged citizens, “to come together as a people to fight corruption in all its forms and against all enablers and perpetrators. With every success against PPP corruption, we will gradually remove the major obstacles to a better quality of life for ourselves, our families and for all Guyanese.”

Brooklyn PNCRChapter annual Christmas fund raiser 2022

The Brooklyn PNCR Chapter Annual Christmas Fund Raiser was held on Saturday 10th December 2022 at its meeting venue on 774 Rockaway Avenue, Brooklyn, New York.

Some of the highlights of the evening were

1. A 60/40 cash raffle which was won by Mr. Conrade Forsythe who graciously donated the winning proceeds to the Brooklyn PNCR Chapter.

2. A Group support raffle which was won by Ms. Jackie Newton, Secretary of New York #1 PNCR Group.

Ms. Sandy Fraser, Secretary (ag) of the Brooklyn Chapter was on hand to facilitate these presentations.

The Groups in attendance were New Jersey Central PNCR Group represented by the Chairman, Mr. Ervin Washington and New Jersey #1 PNCR Group represented by The Vice Chairman, Mr. Earl Rose. Also in attendance was the Assistant Secretary of NAR, Ms. Beryl James and Treasurer of NAR, Ms. Joycelyn Wilson.

Brief remarks were delivered by the Chairman of the Brooklyn Chapter, Mr. Winston Antrobus who expressed

appreciation for the support over the years and encouraged persons to get involved for the greater good of our dear land Guyana. He expressed gratitude to his team for their support and efforts in successfully hosting the event.

Some of these sentiments were echoed by the Chairman of the North American Region (NAR) Mr. Errol J. Lewis who elaborated on the plight of Guyana and Guyanese while noting the importance of ongoing membership drive. He concluded by saying numbers matters in every election. The audience appeared all ears during the remarks session with a few persons committing to be more involved.

The Organizing Secretary (ag) of the Brooklyn Chapter, Ms. Shoy Gibson wishes to express profound gratitude to all for their support at this event as she humbly requests your continuous support to Brooklyn Chapter and all other groups in realizing the goal of NAR and by extension the PNCR.

Music was provided by DJ Brando and Jah Fred One Man Band.

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2023!

We also alerted Guyanese that corruption extends not only to bribery and the embezzlement of public funds, but also to trading in influence, abuse of public office, money-laundering, obstructing justice and private-sector corruption. Our message emphasized that corruption is a plague that stunts economic development, impoverishes people, perverts the rule of law, turns public institutions into bribe-taking bureaucracies, deters foreign investment, and erodes democracy and human rights. It is in this context we must condemn the condoning of corruption by SOCU and the PPP elite, family, friends and favourites.

We warned that corruption is increasing (and worse, normalizing) in Guyana. One of the main causes continues to be the purposeful weakening or sidelining of anti-corruption institutions by the current government. For example: the PPP government politicizes anti-corruption institutions (such as SOCU and the police force in general). It stalls and stymies the work of other institutions (such as the delayed reconstituting of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC); the non-confirmation of the Chief Justice and the Chancellor of the Judiciary; and reducing the schedule of and its attendance at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)). Further, the PPP degrades or sidelines institutions, such as the Commissioner of Information and the oversight Parliamentary Sectoral Committees.

We wish to point out to the Guyanese people that the PPP changed the quorum of the Public Accounts Committee to ensure that when it stays away from PAC meetings their accounts cannot be scrutinized. The Opposition condemns this deliberate sabotage of the Public Accounts Committee by this corrupt PPP regime. The PPP’s approach is dangerous.

But just as dangerous is the government attitude that signals that it condones corruption within its own inner circle and among its political cronies. The Su-gate scandal, for example, exposed ample and credible allegations of corruption against Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and other high officials, yet the government still refuses

On International Human Rights Day, we urged our fellow citizens to join the international call TO STAND UP FOR HUMAN RIGHTS. For us in Guyana, this call comes at a time when our political, social, and economic rights are increasingly disregarded and assaulted by an arrogant and dictatorial government.

We took the opportunity to remind citizens of the human rights guarantees in our constitution. In particular, Article 40 (1) states: “Every person in Guyana is entitled to the basic right to a happy, creative and productive life, free from hunger, ignorance and want. That right includes the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual.”

Indeed, the constitution guarantees us over thirty fundamental rights and freedoms, inclusive of (i) freedoms of expression, conscience, movement, association, and assembly; (ii) freedoms from discrimination, inhuman treatment, and deprivation of property; (iii) rights to life, personal liberty, and free education; and (iv) equality of women, Indigenous peoples, status, and of all persons before the law.

Our message advocated that “as we strive towards the full realization of these entitlements, we concurrently must protect our gains and restore our losses.”

We stated that under the current government, several rights and freedoms are in crisis—such as our freedom of expression and conscience (note the fear of many persons of being victimized should they openly criticize the government); freedom from discrimination (such as in contract awards and cash transfer); freedom from deprivation of property (such as the seizure of ancestral and communal lands by government); right to personal liberty (as seen by the abuse of police powers of search, arrest, and detention—with the Opposition Chief Election Scrutineer Carol Smith-Joseph being the latest victim); and the rights of the Indigenous People (as witnessed by the government’s disrespect of their rights to be consulted on matters of direct concern to them).

We invited Guyanese to also recognize that in STANDING UP FOR THEIR RIGHTS, our constitution guarantees not only political and social rights, but also economic rights. As our oil wealth makes us one of the richest countries in the world, this right can and must be realized. But only a government that cares about people can deliver these rights.

On Thursday evening, 22nd December, Leader of the Opposition Mr. Aubrey C. Norto, MP, met with well-known Guyanese-born actress Carol Christine Hilaria (CCH) Pounder at the Mango Walk Cafe. In her acting career thus far, Pounder has received four Primetime Emmy Award nominations for her roles in The X-Files, ER, The Shield, and The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. She is presently acting in the popular TV series NCIS New Orleans.

NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS 2023

(Continued from the Front Page)

" Exposing them with the aim of educating our people and stamping out government corruption and discrimination which are eating away at the moral, legal, social and economic fabric of our society.

" Ensuring an arrogant PPP government does not further damage our democracy, the rules of good governance, and our national unity.

We in the Opposition will not relent on these fronts. Our people's livelihood is at stake. The destiny of our country is at stake. Failure is therefore not an option. Let us as a nation stand up and unite to defend Guyana on these fronts.

Fellow Guyanese, there is no doubt that the President's New Year's Speech will include lofty promises. But so did his previous New Year's speeches. However, the PPP elite, friends, family and favourites apart, many of us, find ourselves worse off than before even though there is more government spending and bribery of the citizenry by the government.

The quality of life of our people is deteriorating. Even with so-called bonuses and meager salary increases the real wage of the people continues to decline. The money we got in 2018 bought more than it can today because of high inflation (which the government is incapable of addressing) and the fact that the government allocated resources are misused, misdirected, ill-conceived, unplanned and are squandered by this uncaring, corrupt, divisive and incompetent government.

The government's style of one-off measures will not work. It cannot reduce or eliminate poverty. Sporadic, knee-jerk responses will not work. Harum scarum decisions will not work. Gimmicks will not deliver. At the end of 2023, the government will not reduce or eliminate poverty, the quality of life of many will worsen and rampant corruption will not be curtailed. In fact, it will increase; discrimination and corruption will continue to be the order of the day while the government's elite, friends, family and favourites continue to enrich themselves at the expense of the Guyanese people.

In this era of hopelessness what Guyana needs is a government with a vision, a plan and one that cares for the people of Guyana. This is what the next APNU+AFC government offers the people of Guyana in 2025 or whenever elections are called. We will implement our people-centered vision, a human resource development plan, professionalization of the public service and other institutions, inclusive of the Guyana Police Force which has been politicized

by the government. We will implement an economic development plan that allows all sectors of the economy to develop while simultaneously improving the quality of life of the people of Guyana.

We will REINVENT GUYANA. We will break the old ways of thinking, unshackle our collective minds, sharpen our vision, explore and implement bold ideas, restore the Rule of Law and confidence in our national institutions. We will build a Guyana where all people can express themselves freely, live satisfying lives, free of undue hardships, strife, and stress; free of insecurities and indignities, while developing confidence in our people and their ability to build a lawful and prosperous society. A lawless Guyana cannot progress.

Now more than ever, Guyana can become one of the best countries to live in. The only obstacle to such a Guyana is the present government. Our peoplecentered development vision aims to ensure Guyanese can enjoy one of the world's highest standards of living. Our vision aims to transform Guyana into one of the world's happiest societies. We are confident that Guyana can achieve the goal of zero poverty and zero misery. We believe that Guyana can become the envy of the world as the country where citizens have opportunities to realize their full political, social, and economic potential. Guyana needs a comprehensive development plan that puts people first and at the center. That is our vision. This is our CONTRACT WITH GUYANA.

This CONTRACT enshrines the Coalition's development goals to creatively transform this country by focusing unwaveringly on its people. This CONTRACT is the Coalition's pledge, and commitment to each of our citizens. It is the minimum standard to which the Coalition (in or out of government) holds itself and therefore by which the people can judge us. We will work assiduously to regain government to enable the implementation of our vision and plans which will benefit the people of Guyana.

Fellow Guyanese, a new Guyana beckons. As Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the People's National Congress Reform, I promise you to deliver on our vision.

May Guyana remain a Blessed country as I once more wish you a Happy and Prosperous 2023! May the Lord bless you all!

HAPPY NEW YEAR as we pursue a bright future for all Guyana as we forge ahead in developing One People, One Nation, One Destiny!

The PPP continues to fail the people of Guyana

Two years plus of PPP rule has made it manifest that the PPP is incompetent, divisive, corrupt and is making the lives of Guyanese worse by doling out the resources of this country to its elite, friends, families and favourites while allocating crumbs to the people of Guyana thus forcing them into hardships, hopelessness and a life of poverty as they fail to create the fifty thousand jobs they promised.

As we near the end of another year, the occasion presents itself to evaluate the changes in our quality of life and our destiny as a country and as a people over these last 12 months. As citizens, we need to ask ourselves: are we better or worse off in our homes, our workplaces, our communities, and in our society? Are we more or are we less financially and economically secure and empowered? Are our concerns, grievances, and demands better addressed? Are we more confident of and hopeful in the future?

At the start of the year, the PPP government promised that 2022 would be a turning point in the destiny of Guyana. In unveiling the nation’s first oil budget (50% larger than the previous budget), the Minister responsible for finance stated that the government “is battened down in [its] resolution to serve the cause of unifying the People of Guyana and at the same time to ensure that the lives of all Guyanese are meaningfully, demonstrably, and lastingly, improved.” Clearly, these are mere words; the reality is that we are worse off.

Instead, the PPP has made 2022 one of the hardest years on record for Guyanese. On the economic front, the cost-of-living keeps surging, while the government showed no urgency, no capacity, and no genuine care to ease the burden on the people. Poverty and inequality increased. Living from paycheck to paycheck led to more misery. Many parents, especially single parents, cannot afford to feed much less clothe and house their children. Hopelessness stalks the land.

From as early as January, we in the Opposition called for a range of urgent people-centered responses, such as a comprehensive anti-poverty plan; a 25% plus salary increase for public servants, healthcare workers, teachers and other state employees; $10,000 plus increase in old age pensions; the removal of income tax for low-income earners; multi-billion dollar investments to revitalize depressed communities; and a massive grants scheme to spur the startup and growth of micro to medium-scale businesses.

As the cost of living continued to spike during the year - and with the government still demonstrating indifference and incompetence - the opposition further called for a cap on fuel prices and for a waiver of water and electricity payments for low-income households. All of these demands were rejected. These measures would have brought direct relief to our people and would have put income in their pockets. The rejection of these proposals is a clear indication that the PPP regime does not care for the people of Guyana.

The government seems singularly

focused on promoting large, most times unfeasible projects aimed at giving a significantly large portion of our nation’s resources to their elite, friends, families, and favourites while delivering the crumbs to the people who should be the real beneficiaries of our oil income.

Moreover, we noted the persistent inflow of unexpected high oil revenues occasioned by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We pointed out that this oil windfall equated to $300,000 per household – and proposed that this money be equitably and transparently distributed in a structured and focused way to the people of our country. Again, PPP rejected this people-centered proposal.

The government instead preferredand still prefers - to lavish its attention and the country’s bounty on its friends, families, and favorites. Whatever cash transfers it doled out to citizens were one-off, selective in coverage, inadequate in amount, and/or politicized and discriminatory in its allocation. Whatever salary increases it awarded public employees were already eaten up by high inflation and its concomitant high prices. Our people are no better off because it is “too little too late.” The real income of our people has declined since their present income is purchasing less goods compared to 2020.

The year 2022 also witnessed the unceasing erosion of the Rule of Law, democracy, good governance, and basic human rights. The list of PPP transgressions is very long. These transgressions have resulted in most people concluding that Guyana is an authoritarian society hurtling towards dictatorship. We declared months ago that, as a result, the nation faces a political crisis. We pointed to such abuses, as:

1

. The continued corruption in high places, foremost among which remains the Su-gate allegations of bribery and abuse of public office swirling around Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and the government’s refusal to investigate these allegations.

2

. The use of SOCU and the entire police force for political intimidation, oppression, and the violation of human rights while protecting the police from legal challenge thus promoting and condoning lawlessness.

3

. The sabotage of the Public Accounts Committee to prevent it from scrutinizing the people’s money spent by this regime is a clear indication that the PPP is bent on squandering the nation’s resources while not being accountable or transparent.

4

. The continued disrespect for communities in Opposition strongholds and the practice of bribery as the sole means of obtaining political support.

5. Discrimination in the award of contracts and employment opportunities.

6. The callous demolition of homes and stalls of innocent Guyanese especially in APNU+AFC strongholds while treating their own strongholds differently in similar situations.

7. The non-invitation of opposition representation on State Boards and the non-access to the State media.

8

. The obsession of the PPP with political ... (Continued on

The disease caused alarm when it spread worldwide earlier this year. While cases have reduced, experts warn this is not the time for complacency.

Monkeypox – now renamed mpox to avoid the racist and stigmatising language used for the disease that originated in Africa – seems to have disappeared from the headlines. But has the disease really gone away? World Health Organization (WHO) data now suggests that while the threat has lowered, it has not disappeared completely.

Unexpected global spread Mpox was discovered in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the disease was limited to Central and Western Africa for the majority of the time since, with the occasional case spread through travellers to other parts of the world.

But in May this year, cases of the disease, that causes fever, muscle aches and boil-like skin lesions, began spreading rapidly around the world. In response, in July, WHO classified it as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), signalling its highest level of alarm.

The outbreak started in the UK when a traveller returned from Nigeria, where the disease is endemic. But these isolated cases have happened before, and the outbreak has died out fairly quickly. This time, the initial cluster of cases spread and the disease started to emerge in several countries across Europe, as well as Australia and the Americas.

Scientists are still not clear on why the virus started spreading so rapidly, though African epidemiologists have been warning for a few years that patterns of transmission seemed to be changing in endemic countries. "This is the first time that cases and sustained chains of transmission have been reported in countries without direct or immediate epidemiological links to areas of West or Central Africa," says WHO.

Going but not gone

According to WHO, as of 19 December, there have been more than 83,000 cases in 110 countries and 66 deaths. Encouragingly, the number of new cases globally weekly has decreased by 49.3% ;in the past week compared to the previous week, with 265 new cases worldwide compared to 523 cases from 5 to 11 December.

Currently the Region of the Americas is deemed to have a higher risk than the African region. Most cases reported in the past four weeks were from the Region of the Americas (90.5%) and the European Region (4.9%).

The ten most affected countries worldwide are: USA (29,513 cases), Brazil (10,293), Spain (7,416), France (4,110), Colombia (3,908), UK (3,730), Germany (3,675), Peru (3,587), Mexico (3,509), and Canada (1,459). Together, these countries account for 85.7%of the cases reported globally.

Focus on elimination

In some parts of the world, such as the US, there has been a fairly robust supply of the JYNNEOS monkeypox vaccine, which may have blunted the epidemic. However, as with almost all vaccines, low-income countries have been at the back of the queue.

Despite Africa having countries that are endemic for mpox, they have had virtually no access to the vaccines, nor to smallpox vaccines that had previously been used to protect against mpox. Africa only just received its first batch of mpox vaccine as a donation from South Korea a few weeks ago, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

This is a critical time to suppress the epidemic by rolling out the vaccine in an equitable way, say experts. A paper in The Lancet in October warned that just because monkeypox is currently controllable, it may evolve and might not be easily controllable in future.

The PNCR fully supports all efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS

On 1st December 2002, the PNCR joined with the rest of the world in observing World AIDS Day under the theme, "Equalize - World AIDS DAY 2022".

According to the Pan American Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), "The "Equalize" slogan is a call to action. It is a prompt for all of us to work for the proven practical actions needed to address inequalities and help end AIDS."

The PNCR fully supports all efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS and will continue to be involved in the fight to eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with it as well as efforts to reduce the spread of the virus; the fact that that more than 40 million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS, and that the Caribbean region is among the most seriously affected regions of the world, second only to Africa.

The high incidence of this pandemic in Guyana cannot be ignored especially in the context of our population being below one million. There can therefore be no partisan politics in the fight against HIV/AIDS as it is non-dis-

criminatory in the manner in which it is spread worldwide. Consequently, all Guyanese must work together to ensure that our struggle against this dreaded disease is successful. The PNCR

appreciates and thank the United States Government, the United Nations and other International Agencies for the resources which have been made available to Guyana to aid in this fight.

Coronary heart disease (CHD)

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of death worldwide. CHD is sometimes called ischaemic heart disease or coronary artery disease.

Symptoms of coronary heart disease (CHD)

The main symptoms of coronary heart disease are:

- chest pain (angina)

- shortness of breath - pain throughout the body

- feeling faint - feeling sick (nausea)

But not everyone has the same symptoms and some people may not have any before coronary heart disease is diagnosed.

Causes of coronary heart dis-

ease (CHD)

Coronary heart disease is the term that describes what happens when your heart's blood supply is

blocked or interrupted by a buildup of fatty substances in the coronary arteries.

Over time, the walls of your arteries can become furred up with fatty deposits. This process is known as atherosclerosis and the fatty deposits are called atheroma.

Atherosclerosis can be caused by lifestyle factors, such as smoking and regularly drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

You're also more at risk of getting atherosclerosis if you have conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure (hypertension) or diabetes.

Treating coronary heart disease (CHD)

Coronary heart disease cannot be cured but treatment can help manage the symptoms and reduce the chances of problems such as heart attacks.

Treatment can include:

- lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and stopping smoking. - medicines.

- angioplasty – where balloons and stents are used to treat narrow heart arteries. - surgery.

Preventing coronary heart disease (CHD)

You can reduce your risk of getting coronary heart disease by making some simple lifestyle changes.

These include:

- eating a healthy, balanced diet - being physically active - giving up smoking - controlling blood cholesterol and sugar levels

Keeping your heart healthy will also have other health benefits, such as helping reduce your risk of stroke and dementia.

The PPP continues to fail the people of Guyana

(Continued from Page 9) ... domination and control and the concomitant rise in executive lawlessness.

9. The exclusion of civil society in making decisions on issues of national importance.

These and other abuses by the PPP have made a lie of its self-delusional One-Guyana mantra. As some have pointed out, "One Guyana, the apparent new national motto … sounds more like "One Party Rule". As we near the year’s end and assess all the money spent and all

the attacks suffered by ordinary citizens, one thing is clear: the PPP has either foiled our development or has taken us backward at all levels and in all spheres of society and economy. Guyana is worse under PPP rule. The PPP’s two years in government is a clear indication to all that the APNU+AFC did a better job at governing Guyana. We, in the Opposition, believe that Guyana can have one of the world’s highest standards of living. We believe that Guyana can be one of the world’s happiest societies. We

believe that Guyana can achieve the goal of zero poverty and zero misery. Unfortunately, we are experiencing zero transparency and zero accountability. We believe that Guyana can be a model of democracy and good governance and the only obstacle that stands in our way is the incompetent, divisive, corrupt and secretive PPP regime. Guyana could only achieve the ideals we espouse if there is a caring and competent administration. We intend to be that administration.

Has the mpox (monkeypox) epidemic disappeared?

HUGHDESMONDHOYTE, SC

Hugh Desmond Hoyte's success in trying circumstances is cause for hope and optimism

Address to the 20th Death Anniversary of Hugh Desmond Hoyte, SC Seven Ponds, Botanical Gardens

By Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP Leader of the PNCR 22nd December 2022

This morning, I am speaking with you in the week before Christmas. I therefore wish to extend to you and your families the very best for the season. I also wish you a Happy and Prosperous New Year. In particular, I send personal greetings to the sister of President Hoyte, Ms. Gloria Patricia Hoyte. My understanding is that she is unwell at the moment and I wish her a speedy recovery.

Twenty years ago, what should have been a traditional Christmas season of cheer, was darkened by the death of our second Leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) and President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Mr. Hugh Desmond Hoyte, SC. At the time of his death, he had left a body of accomplishments which were symbolic of his contribution to the development of Guyana. It has been stated on several previous occasions, in this place, that he had taken an economy battered by the global economic crisis, and transformed it through the mechanism of the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP), into a vital and growing one. The International Development Bank (IDB), estimated that in 1990, Guyana was experiencing a 9% economic growth. This successful economy was bequeathed to the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) in 1992 and by 1996 they had effectively destroyed it. However, the key elements of the ERP could not be destroyed. Some have argued that its essential features are still in place and possibly responsible for rescuing us.

Mr. Hoyte's achievements were not confined to the economic field. His was the determination to achieve the allround development of the nation. The Guyana Prize was launched in 1987. Mr. Hoyte justified the launching of the prize by highlighting that Culture was critical to the development of a nation. He said it was "essential to the development of the whole man and the whole citizen as food and physical health are at a more basic level. Material prosperity, even material self-sufficiency, is not enough. Human beings cannot and should not be so easily satisfied." He recognised the important role of culture in our society; something the present administration will do well to learn. Today our society seems to be gliding along on our oil wealth without any regard for the cultural development of our people. I wish to re-emphasise here that we in the People's National Congress Reform believe that cultural development is important.

The policy decision in the field of culture was complimented by a focus on the importance of education and foreign affairs. Relations with our regional and CARICOM neighbors were greatly improved. And we must not forget that it was Mr. Hoyte who was directly respon-

sible for the creation of the Iwokrama rainforest project; an environmental achievement that is celebrated today; but people conveniently refuse to accept that it was the brainchild of Hugh Desmond Hoyte, who took it to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference in 1989 and got it approved.

The PNCR has always been inspired by the purpose and achievements of its Leaders. We know that Mr. Burnham's leadership inspired Mr. Hoyte. We know that Mr. Hoyte's leadership would have inspired Robert Corbin; and we know that Burnham, Hoyte and Corbin would have inspired David Granger. I wish to submit to you this morning that we, in turn, as members of the PNCR, can learn important lessons from Mr. Hoyte's political life and from his presidency and from all of those Leaders who preceded us.

I wish to recall that the period after the 1992 elections was one that tested the Party and our supporters. I remember in particular that the PPP had return to its ingrained habit of seeking to dominate our society. Then, as it is now in 2022, public servants who were considered to be members of the PNCR were dismissed following the elections. So were Indians who did not support the PPP. The Foreign Service bore the brunt of this policy of discrimination and harassment. Sixty-nine of my colleagues in the Foreign Service was sent packing for no reason at all. Discrimination seemed to be the order of the day in 1997 as it is today in 2022. The economic policies of the PPP in such areas as the distribution of land seemed intended only to benefit the supporters of that party.

How well do I remember that even though the PNCR had won Region Number Four, the PPP had created a land selection committee without the PNCR being represented on it. (I assume young Daniel Seeram will see similarities with what occurred). By 1998, our society had become a tinderbox. Soon, the aggrieved citizens of our nation took to the streets. Our problems were so deep-seated that we had to invite CARICOM to bail-us-out of our difficult situation. I am sure you would recognize how much the adverse circumstances of the 1990's resemble the situation of

today. We have seen this movie before with the same actors.

It was Mr. Hoyte's leadership at this time which brought us through this difficult and testing period. He faced a similar situation as we do today. The PNCR had to assert its rights as a Party. In those days we protested, we made our point; but it is our task to analyse those protest and develop new strategies in the current circumstance. The protest attracted fierce criticisms. Our supporters were called "criminals" and other derogatory names. But the PNCR was not deterred by the barking of our opponents. The caravan marched on. The PNCR had to defend its supporters and non-supporters against the PPP's policies of discrimination and domination; we could not and did not veer from our objectives. Today, we continue to be focused on our objectives. Moreover, the Party had to make deliberate efforts to combat the transfer, on a massive scale, the resources of this nation to the supporters of the PPP. We ignore at our peril in this nation that the Jagdeo presidency can be said to have engineered the biggest transfer of wealth to one ethnic group.

Then as now, the PNCR had to face the ill-informed and politically inspired attacks on its leadership. The viability of our party was questioned and there was the old chestnut that the PNCR could not get back into power. We all know what happened. Those reports of the imminent demise of our Party were grossly exaggerated as they are today. Mr. Hoyte tuned-out the noise of criticism and focused on the need to give hope to our supporter and to take the fight to the PPP as the tactics and strategy of the Party dictated. He was highly successful and I wish to say to you as Leader I will learn from that experience.

By 1998, the PPP had to agree to a reduction of their length of tenure as a government from five years to three years as a result of the signing of the Herdmanston Accord. However, Mr. Hoyte did not rest on his laurels. When Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo succeeded Mrs. Janet Jagan as President, he responded to an invitation for dialogue and I am convinced that had that dialogue not been sabotaged by the PPP, our country would have been a better place in terms of its economic development and the relationship between the two main ethnic groups. You may recalled that another Leader of our Party, Mr. Robert Corbin, went out of his way and became involved in constructive engagement which he thought and we thought was good for this country. Again, the PPP showed no faith and sabotaged it.

Mr. Hoyte's success in trying circumstances is cause for hope and optimism. I said a moment ago that our leaders have left us with a template of how to cope with difficult situations. One of them is when to zero out from the noise of our opponents and be focused on our objectives. They have taught us how we can ensure the survival and sustainability of our Party. This can be done through wise and deliberate policy. In a world in which there is now Facebook and sensationalism, this council of Cde. Hoyte is

important. It is necessary that this be stated. For even the average school boy or school girl will tell you that these are difficult times. As the former head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams, said recently; "the PPP has become power drunk" as a result of having access to the massive resources thrown-up by the oil industry.

Previously, I referred to the massive transfer of wealth to the supporters of the PPP in the 1990's. It is happening again, but it is not only here that we have to contend with the PPP's philosophy of government for their supporters. The PPP government is not accountable as it spends the nation's money like a drunken sailor. Massive projects are being undertaken without any major feasibility study or oversight and the resources from the oil industry are being distributed in the most inequitable manner. The challenge that therefore faces us as a Party is not only to ensure that the oil industry is a blessing rather than a curse but also to do everything to ensure that it is a legacy we can bequeath to future generations. It is in this regard that we have focused on a people-centered development strategy and at the appropriate time we will unveil it to the people of Guyana.

Like Mr. Burnham and Mr. Hoyte, like Cde. Corbin and Cde. Granger, like our Elders Cde. Hamilton Green, Oscar Clarke, Jeffrey Thomas, Rashleigh Jackson and others, I have every confidence in the supporters of the Party and the people of Guyana, of which I am the Leader. We will come through this difficult period and guarantee the success and equitable development of our nation. That must be our focus. That is why I have not hesitated to walk among our people and to be with them in this hour of need. I believe as Leader of the Party, that all our Party Comrades, in every region, must find themselves amidst our people. It is good now and it will be good when we return to government. I have heard as I move around the complaints of discrimination and I have seen the levels of poverty in our society. I have no doubt that this is an urgent social problem; yet the PPP is making no effort to deal with it, even as the World Bank has warned that poverty in Guyana is as high as 49%. This is clearly unacceptable. The resources are available and my Party will insist that the current administration do something about this situation. We have already proposed to them comprehensive policies and programmes to deal with poverty. A government under the APNU+AFC will ensure the resources of this country benefit all the people of Guyana.

It is a source of great concern to our Party that the PPP seems more intent on building mega-projects rather than attending to the basic needs of our people. This is callous as well as cynical. Guyanese are aware that these megaprojects enable the PPP to fund itself and enrich their elites.

Comrades, despite all the difficulties we face, I am very hopeful for the future of Guyana. I have seen how Mr. Hoyte was

Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP

(Continued from Page 11) ... able to ride out the difficulties in the pre-1998 period and I am persuaded that the PNCR, with the support of its constituents, will remain a formidable force and will defeat the People's Progressive Party at the next elections; and we intend to do this with a viable coalition.

When I became Leader of this Party, I called for unity. I make this call again this morning. The Party has to be united as we seek to resist the efforts of the PPP to control and dominate our society. We have to be focused on building a better unified Guyana. We need not fear as our Party has gone through many difficult periods as I have already described. We have survived, we have progressed and we have prospered. I have no doubt that we will do so again. I am convinced that

the PNCR as a government was inclusive and future coalition governments will be inclusive. I am satisfied that we have the intellectual and human capacity to manage the affairs of this country in an equitable manner. I am satisfied that we are competent but most importantly I am satisfied that as a Party, we are resilient. I am satisfied that we governed fairly when we were in office and we operated based on the rule of law. I believe that this is the recipe for success; this is the legacy left to us by Hugh Desmond Hoyte.

Today we celebrate his life, twenty years after his passing and we are indeed thankful for the ideas and activities of Hugh Desmond Hoyte that would have resulted in us becoming the formidable force we are in this country.

I thank you.

King Pele - A Legend Forever!

Obituaries

Shonette Grant: Died 22nd December 2022.

The PNCR wishes to express its deepest sympathy at the passing of Ms. Shonette Grant who died on Saturday 22nd December 2022. She was the mother of 17 year old Shaquille Grant who was wrongfully killed by the police back in 2012 in Agricola. Ms. Grant was laid to rest on Friday 30th December. The funeral was attended by the Vice Chairperson of the Party, Mrs. Elizabeth Williams-Niles. The Party expresses its sincere condolences to her family, relatives and friends at this time of their bereavement. May her soul be at Eternal Rest!

Loakpaul Garib: Died 15th December 2022.

The PNCR wishes to express its deepest sympathy at the passing of Cde. Loakpaul Garib. He was the husband of Krishandai Garib akas Marilyn of Canje, Berbice and longtime supporter of the Party. The Party once again expresses its condolences to his family, relatives and friends at this time.

Mr. Garib was laid to rest on Wednesday 21st December 2022. The Funeral was attended by the Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP; Mr. Roysdale Ford, MP; Mrs. Volda Lawrence, MP; Ms. Carol Smith-Joseph, 1st Vice Chairman of the NCW and Ms. Hazel Pinder, Treasurer of the NCW. May his soul be at Eternal Rest!

Prince Albert Pompey, AA: Died 9th December 2022.

The PNCR expresses its deepest sympathy at the passing of Mr. Prince Albert Pompey, AA, of Highdam, Mahaicony, Region #5. He was a National Awardee and an Outstanding Member of the Party, Former Co-ordinator of the Party, Former Councillor of Woodlands/Farm NDC, Region No. 5 and Party Elder who transitioned on Friday 9th December 2022 at the age of 91. The Party extends its sincere condolences to his family, relatives and friends at this time.

Mr. Pompey was laid to rest on Saturday 17th December 2022 which was attended by the Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, many seniors and other Party members. May his soul be at Eternal Rest!

Edison Arantes do Nascimento aka “King Pele”

The Leader and members of APNU+AFC extend their deepest condolences to the family of Edison Arantes do Nascimento (the one and only King Pele) on his passing. As we grieve, we join with the people of Brazil, the football fraternity, and the rest of the world in honoring this legendary sports icon and great man. His career and life transcended the football field and inspired generations of people across the globe, especially in the developing world. His influence and greatness will live on. He will never be forgotten

Hugh Desmond Hoyte's success in trying circumstances is cause for hope and optimism