Georgetown, Guyana – Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has once again criticized the government’s management of Guyana’s oil wealth, claiming that the country’s newfound riches are failing to benefit the average citizen. Speaking at the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) General Council meeting over the weekend, Norton described the current economic situation as a “twisted irony,” where one of the world’s fastest-growing economies is struggling to address poverty and inequality.

“We see mega-budgets but micro-benefits; oil flowing beneath our feet, yet tears flowing from the eyes of hungry children,” Norton stated during his address. He accused the government of prioritizing large-scale infrastructure projects and enriching a select elite while neglecting critical investments in education, healthcare, and social welfare programs that directly impact ordinary Guyanese.

The PNCR leader highlighted what he called “reckless spending” from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), with nearly 95% of oil revenues being withdrawn to finance the government’s $1.3 trillion 2025 budget. Norton argued that this approach is unsustainable and fails to secure long-term economic stability for future generations. He warned that heavy reliance on oil revenues, coupled with declining global oil prices, could leave Guyana vulnerable to economic shocks.

“Spending 95% of the income in the NRF is criminal and dangerous,” Norton said, adding that much of the budget’s focus on infrastructure comes at the expense of human development. “You cannot claim to be transforming a country when the small man is getting nothing.”

Norton also criticized the government for failing to lower taxes like VAT, which he believes would provide immediate relief to citizens struggling with rising living costs. He described the administration’s fiscal policies as “self-contradictory” and accused it of using oil revenues as a “slush fund” for wasteful spending and illegal enrichment.

In response to these issues, Norton outlined his vision for a more equitable distribution of wealth under a future coalition government. He promised reforms to ensure that oil revenues are effectively managed and invested in diversifying the economy, particularly in non-oil sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. “We will change the law to ensure oil resources are not plundered or misused,” he said, emphasizing savings for future generations and investments in sustainable development.

Norton’s remarks come amid growing public frustration over income inequality and a perceived lack of tangible benefits from Guyana’s oil boom. While major infrastructure projects are transforming parts of the country, many communities continue to face challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities, limited job opportunities, and rising costs of living.

As Guyana prepares for its next general elections, Norton’s critique of the government’s handling of oil wealth is likely to become a key campaign issue. Whether his message resonates with voters remains to be seen, but it underscores a broader debate about how resource-rich nations can ensure their wealth benefits all citizens equitably.