The Alliance For Change (AFC) and its leader Nigel Hughes have once again demonstrated their utter disregard for democracy and the will of the Guyanese people. Their refusal to apologize for their role in the 2020 election rigging attempts is not just disappointing, it’s a slap in the face to every citizen who values free and fair elections.

A Legacy of Failure and Deceit

The AFC’s track record during their time in government from 2015 to 2020 is nothing short of abysmal:

• Over 200 new and increased taxes burdening ordinary Guyanese13
• Closure of sugar estates, leaving 7,000 workers jobless13
• Skyrocketing unemployment, estimated to exceed 40,000 job losses13
• Billions squandered on corrupt projects like D’Urban Park and the Sussex Street bond13

Unapologetic for Election Rigging

Nigel Hughes’ arrogant response to calls for an apology is telling. When asked about the AFC’s role in the 2020 election controversy, he had the audacity to say, “I’m not sure what we would apologise for”11. This blatant denial flies in the face of overwhelming evidence and international condemnation of the APNU+AFC’s attempts to subvert the will of the people8.

Conflict of Interest and Hypocrisy

Hughes’ leadership of the AFC is marred by glaring conflicts of interest. As an attorney representing ExxonMobil, he has openly admitted that his client’s interests would take precedence over national interests7. This admission alone should disqualify him from any position of public trust.

A Party Without Principles

The AFC’s willingness to consider rekindling their alliance with APNU14 shows they have learned nothing from their past mistakes. They remain a party without principles, willing to sacrifice the interests of Guyanese citizens for their own political gain.

Conclusion

The AFC, under Nigel Hughes’ leadership, represents everything that is wrong with Guyanese politics. Their refusal to take responsibility for their actions, their disregard for democratic principles, and their willingness to put personal and corporate interests above those of the nation make them unfit to govern.

As Guyana moves forward under the progressive leadership of the PPP/C government, voters must remember the dark days of AFC’s misrule and reject their hollow promises. The AFC and Nigel Hughes have proven time and again that they cannot be trusted with the future of our nation.