The APNU/AFC coalition, which governed Guyana from 2015 to 2020, entered office with promises of progress and economic improvement. However, their tenure was marked by decisions that disproportionately burdened the poor, alienated indigenous communities, and left the country with little to show for the massive public funds spent. Their policies not only failed their own supporters but also hindered national development.

Increased Taxes on the Poor

One of the most glaring failures of the APNU/AFC government was its decision to increase taxes on essential goods and services, disproportionately affecting the poor. The introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential items, including water and electricity, placed additional financial strain on low-income families. These tax hikes made everyday necessities more expensive, worsening economic conditions for those who could least afford it. Instead of providing relief, the administration made life harder for struggling households.

Neglect and Displacement of Amerindian Communities

Another major failure of the APNU/AFC government was its treatment of Guyana’s indigenous Amerindian communities. In a shocking move, the administration dismissed over 1,500 Amerindian Community Support Officers (CSOs), effectively eliminating a vital employment program that provided jobs and services to remote villages. This decision stripped these communities of economic opportunities and essential local governance support, further marginalizing a group that has historically been neglected.

Scrapping of the School Children’s Cash Grant

Education is a cornerstone of national development, yet the APNU/AFC government scrapped the school children’s cash grant program, which had provided financial assistance to families for educational expenses. This move directly impacted thousands of families, making it harder for them to afford school supplies, uniforms, and transportation for their children. The decision reflected a lack of commitment to investing in the country’s future generations.

$1.4 Trillion Spent with No Substantial Results

Between 2015 and 2020, the APNU/AFC government spent over $1.4 trillion, yet there is little to show for it in terms of lasting infrastructure or economic benefits. While the coalition often spoke about development, their tenure was marked by poor financial management, lack of transparency, and unfulfilled promises. The opposition has long criticized the PPP/C government’s infrastructure spending, yet APNU/AFC failed to deliver significant improvements despite their massive expenditures.

Widespread Corruption Under APNU+AFC (2015-2020)

Between 2015 and 2020, the APNU+AFC government presided over what has been described as the most corrupt period in Guyana’s history, marked by blatant disregard for procurement laws, large-scale land transfers without financial compensation, and preferential awarding of contracts to party-aligned companies. The administration bypassed the established procurement process, suspending standard procedures and directly allocating contracts, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability. Despite lofty promises of clean governance and reform, their tenure was marred by widespread malpractices, including the failure to uphold the Integrity Commission Act, as evidenced by opposition leader Aubrey Norton’s non-compliance with asset and income declarations. Furthermore, critics and sections of the media largely ignored these irregularities, allowing the coalition’s misconduct to go unchecked. In contrast, the current PPP/C administration has worked to restore integrity in public procurement, ensuring that bidding processes are conducted transparently and that citizens have mechanisms to contest decisions, thereby reaffirming their commitment to good governance and national development.

A Lack of Vision

The APNU/AFC administration’s governance was plagued by allegations of corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of a cohesive vision for national development. The coalition relied on fear-mongering and divisive rhetoric rather than concrete policies to advance the country. Instead of focusing on Guyana’s economic transformation, they promoted political division, leaving their supporters disillusioned and the nation stagnant.

Conclusion: A Path Forward

Guyanese deserve a government that prioritizes national development, economic stability, and social progress. The PPP/C government has since reinstated critical programs, such as the school children’s cash grant, and prioritized infrastructure investments aimed at improving the lives of all citizens. Moving forward, it is crucial for the electorate to demand accountability and policies that genuinely uplift the nation rather than continue down a path of economic hardship and division. The APNU/AFC’s failures serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of poor leadership and misplaced priorities.