Residents across Guyana responded positively to the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C)’s manifesto consultation for the 2025–2030 period, held on July 17 at the Ramada Hotel in Providence.
Recognising that the PPP/C is the only political party that actively encourages civil engagement in its policy formulation—welcoming input through WhatsApp, suggestions at specific drop-off locations, and face-to-face meetings—The El Dorado Beacon interviewed a diverse group of Guyanese to gather their perspectives on the manifesto and its potential impact on their lives.
Miss Veron John, a trained teacher from the Cotton Field Secondary in Region Two and a resident of Manawarin (a village roughly 60 miles from Charity), usually avoids discussing politics. However, she shared her motivation for expressing her views on the PPP/C’s manifesto and her assessment of the administration.
According to Miss John, “As an educator, I was truly encouraged and inspired by the outcome of yesterday’s consultation by President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo. I am especially grateful for the plans to invest in training, digital access and equitable educational resources, which will help to bridge gaps and assist students and teachers alike.”
She also explained, “The five-year manifesto truly reflects a clear commitment to inclusive development and national unity. I believe that it outlines a vision that caters to all sentiments of society.
Whether you’re a professional living in a rural or urban area, a youth seeking opportunity, or a resident of a hinterland or riverine area, it was all catered for.”
The young teacher further stated that she is especially pleased that the manifesto not only focuses on education, job creation, infrastructure, and social support, but it also ensures that people from all walks of life stand to benefit.
Moreover, Miss John expressed personal gratitude to the PPP/C administration for all that they have done for Guyanese in the last five years, especially for the Amerindians from the hinterland and the riverine areas.
According to her, “I am grateful that we have the choice to further our studies now; before you all (PPP/C administration), it was impossible to even dream about going to the University of Guyana in my community (Manawarin).
We couldn’t afford it, but no more.”
Meanwhile, Keon, a small contractor from Buxton, stated that although he was unable to attend the consultation session, he is pleased with the government’s commitment to accelerate development on an even greater scale over the next five years.
“With the ongoing rapid development across the country and more so on the East Coast of Demerara, I do believe that we must have road expansions to avoid the chaos when one road is closed,” Keon said. “I’m also pleased with the work on the railway embankment, so we can have smooth traffic flow.”
Keon further praised the government for recognising the need to expand the road network in every community so that contractors like him can benefit from projects and provide employment for his fellow villagers.
Keon also stated that, while the manifesto includes substantial future objectives in every sector, he is pleased with the educational and job opportunities that are created for young people.
The contractor took a moment to applaud Vice President Jagdeo, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, and the Minister within the Prime Minister’s Office, Kwame McCoy, for their proactive role in providing equal opportunities and guidance to “small contractors.”
Considering future possibilities, Keon humbly suggested that the government evaluate the removal of the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) from employees’ pay slips.
He asserts that a minimum three-year testing period can be looked at to evaluate its feasibility.
Furthermore, The El Dorado Beacon engaged in conversation with a farmer from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and a mother from Region Four, both of whom shared similar sentiments as Miss John and Keon from Buxton.
According to the farmer, Balram Seemangal, “Let me first say thanks to President Ali and Minister Mustapha for the work that they are doing for us in Region Three and all farmers across Guyana.
I am looking forward to the next five years. I know that it will be better. I have no doubt.”
Meanwhile, Shameeza, a mother of one who frequents ‘The Children’s Play Park’, said, “I listened to President Ali discussing the manifesto yesterday (July 17, 2025), and I was happy to hear that every person will benefit from their plan, but I cannot say that I am surprised.
Whether people want to admit it or not, Guyana has transformed from 2020 to 2025, and I am confident that the next five years will put us in a better position. Nothing happens overnight, but we are better off as a country than we used to be.
Thus far, the PPP/C manifesto outlines key initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy, healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, animal welfare, job creation, and much more.
