The Alliance for Change (AFC) has voiced its support for a national referendum on key constitutional issues, including oil and gas policies, and other reforms that could shape Guyana’s future. Speaking at a press conference on November 1, 2024, AFC Chairman and Member of Parliament David Patterson responded to a question about the possibility of a referendum, indicating that the party would support putting these matters to a public vote.
Patterson suggested that a referendum could address not only oil and gas issues but also a range of other pressing national concerns. “We do believe…that at some point in time, there will be a need for a general referendum to amend our constitution,” he stated, adding that the referendum could also cover topics like the death penalty and other proposed constitutional changes. “It would be a good idea to include all the other issues we think are necessary,” he noted, emphasizing the need for public involvement.
The AFC’s position on a referendum stands in contrast to that of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who recently voiced reservations about holding a referendum alongside the 2025 elections. Jagdeo argued that adding complex issues to the ballot could “complicate the voting process,” suggesting instead that parties should make their policies clear in their election manifestos, allowing voters to choose based on those commitments.
For Patterson, however, a referendum would be an opportunity to make changes that reach beyond party lines and advance the nation’s governance. “We would support a referendum to do all of those things, including matters of oil and gas,” he affirmed, calling on the government to consider a collective decision on these critical issues.
The AFC’s call for a referendum aligns with its broader platform, which also includes advocating for electoral reforms, such as establishing a new voters list, implementing biometric identification, and ensuring a fair hiring system within the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). These reforms, according to party leaders, are essential for restoring public trust in Guyana’s political institutions and ensuring fair and credible elections.
Patterson reinforced the AFC’s commitment to an election process and governance model that reflect the will of the people. “If the PPP is confident in the changes they’re making, then we can have one referendum to address these issues before the elections,” he added, stressing that public input is critical to building trust in the government’s handling of national policies.
As the 2025 elections approach, the AFC’s push for a referendum underscores a growing divide between the major parties over how to address the nation’s oil contracts and broader constitutional reforms. Jagdeo’s stance, however, reflects a reluctance to complicate the 2025 election with additional ballot questions, preferring that voters choose among parties based on their manifestos.
