Georgetown, Guyana — The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) today reaffirmed its “conditional support” for the government’s recently revised cash grant initiative, stressing the need for clear guidelines and transparency to prevent potential misuse of funds. The grant, initially proposed as a one-time $200,000 payment per household, has since been adjusted to $100,000 per adult recipient, a shift the PNCR claims has contributed to “justified public suspicion” surrounding the program’s purpose and administration.
In a statement on November 1, the PNCR said it backs the inclusion of eligible diaspora Guyanese in the grant but cited concerns that funds could be diverted to support campaign activities. The PNCR’s support, therefore, hinges on “efficient and transparent” distribution to ensure the grant reaches all intended recipients without corruption or political interference. “Our support is… conditional on the requirement that payments must be devoid of the corruption, politicization, and spiteful omission of persons…,” the statement read, alluding to past relief efforts the party believes were mishandled.
Adding to the scrutiny is the government’s plan to implement an app-based registration system, aimed at facilitating grant applications from both domestic and overseas residents. During a recent press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo addressed questions regarding the app, noting that it is currently in testing and not yet fully launched. “We are not going to launch it until it’s tested… to ensure it’s secure,” Jagdeo stated, explaining that a press conference will clarify app usage once testing is completed. The lack of clear rollout timelines, however, has raised further concerns among citizens, with some questioning whether the registration process could be manipulated for electoral gain as the 2025 elections approach.
The PNCR has pledged that, if elected, it will establish a more comprehensive and predictable cash transfer model for citizens, guaranteeing a minimum monthly payout of $100,000 per household. This program, which the party refers to as a “Good Governance Dividend,” aims to distribute oil revenue more consistently and equitably. According to the PNCR, this approach would eliminate poverty and raise the standard of living across the country by the end of its second year in office.
With the PPP’s revised cash grant program continuing to face questions over its evolving structure and transparency, these conflicting approaches are emerging as focal points in the lead-up to the 2025 elections, highlighting broader debates over how Guyana’s oil wealth should best serve its people.
