Guyana’s political landscape is witnessing heightened tensions as President Irfaan Ali faces mounting pressure to fulfill a significant campaign pledge. The central issue revolves around a promised cash grant payment that has become the focal point of national discourse.
During the inauguration of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket 2025, President Ali attempted to reassure citizens about his administration’s commitment. “My fellow Guyanese, hope is alive tonight. The cash grant is alive and well,” he declared before hundreds of attendees. While emphasizing that “everything we promise shall come to pass,” the President notably avoided specifying any concrete timeline for the disbursement.
This political development occurs against the backdrop of organized opposition movements. The People’s National Congress Reform-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has demanded immediate action, urging the government to distribute at least GY$150,000 to every Guyanese citizen aged 18 and above. According to APNU parliamentary leader Dr. Terrence Campbell, this substantial investment in citizen welfare would total approximately GY$90.6 billion for over 600,000 eligible recipients.
The opposition has announced plans to intensify pressure through organized protests beginning the following Monday. Dr. Campbell argued that the substantial government revenues make this proposal financially feasible, describing it as a “manageable percentage” of projected income. He emphasized the grant’s dual benefit: providing immediate support for basic needs while stimulating local economies through increased consumer spending.
Statistical context from the Center for Global Development reveals the urgency of economic support measures, with 32% of Guyana’s population living in extreme poverty and an additional 26% experiencing moderate poverty.
The current political confrontation traces back to specific campaign promises made by President Ali in August 2025, when he explicitly guaranteed citizens “a beautiful Christmas” and encouraged them to “look at the smile on my face and know that you will have enjoyable holiday.” These unambiguous commitments now form the foundation of the opposition’s demands and the growing public expectation for timely fulfillment.