Govt’s Commitment to All Guyanese Highlighted by President Ali

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reiterated his government’s dedication to improving the lives of all Guyanese, irrespective of political affiliations. He made these remarks while addressing the recent High Court ruling concerning the displaced squatters in Mocha, expressing his administration’s readiness to collaborate with those affected.

During a live broadcast on Thursday, President Ali emphasized that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) is committed to prioritizing humanitarian concerns over political divisions. “We are a humane government. We don’t see PNC, APNU, or any faction of the AFC. We view every citizen as our responsibility, and that’s why we offer an opportunity to those squatting in Mocha. It’s a fair offer,” he stated. The president criticized opposition leaders, claiming they mislead citizens, and reaffirmed the government’s role in supporting vulnerable individuals.

The President’s comments follow a court decision where several squatters from Cane View/Mocha, East Bank Demerara (EBD) lost their legal battle against the government’s initiative to clear State lands for the construction of the Heroes Highway. Since 2021, the government has proposed compensation options, including monetary payments, titled land, and housing for those willing to relocate. While 28 squatters accepted these offers, a few resisted, allegedly with encouragement from opposition parties.

Squatters Mark Gordon, Shenika Simpson, Roxane Allen, and Lucretia George challenged the government’s decision, seeking over $200 million in damages. However, Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, ruled against them last Friday, affirming the government’s legal authority to clear the land for development.

In response to the ruling, President Ali emphasized the administration’s ongoing commitment to assist those affected while criticizing opposition leaders for exploiting the situation for political purposes. He specifically accused Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and other members of the APNU and AFC of taking advantage of vulnerable citizens. “Your government, the People’s Progressive Party Civic, has an open door and an open policy to enhance the lives of every Guyanese, including yours,” he asserted.

Despite their loss in court, the government expressed its willingness to support the squatters, a point acknowledged by the Chief Justice during her ruling. She noted that it is up to the applicants to decide whether they are willing to engage respectfully with the government to make use of the offered assistance.