
At a press conference held on January 9, 2025, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo addressed growing criticism following a recent isolated incident that has sparked debate among opposition groups and sections of the public.
The Vice President stressed that a single event cannot be used to assess the overall performance of the government, urging citizens to view the administration’s achievements holistically.
“A government’s performance must be measured by its overall impact on the lives of its citizens, not by one incident, no matter how unfortunate or controversial it may be,” Jagdeo stated firmly.
While he acknowledged the gravity of the incident—which involved allegations of misconduct in a government department—Jagdeo pointed out that the administration has taken swift action to investigate and address the issue.
He assured the public that those responsible would be held accountable, reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and wrongdoing.
Track Record of Success
Jagdeo highlighted the administration’s accomplishments over the past year, pointing to record-breaking economic growth, unprecedented infrastructure development, and significant investments in education, healthcare, and housing.
He argued that these achievements far outweigh any individual setbacks. “We are the fastest-growing economy in the region. We have created thousands of jobs, improved access to healthcare, and provided affordable housing for our people. These are the markers of a government that is delivering results,” he said.
The Vice President also criticized opposition parties for what he described as “opportunistic” attempts to use isolated incidents to discredit the administration.
“They will take any opportunity to exaggerate and mislead the public. But we remain focused on delivering for the people of Guyana,” Jagdeo added.
Transparency and Accountability
Addressing concerns about transparency, Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to good governance and accountability. He noted that the administration has strengthened oversight mechanisms and instituted reforms to minimize opportunities for corruption and inefficiency.
“We have systems in place to ensure that when issues arise, they are dealt with decisively. No one is above the law, and the public can trust that we are working in their best interests,” he stated.
Call for Perspective
Jagdeo urged citizens to avoid letting isolated events cloud their judgment of the government’s broader performance. He emphasized the importance of perspective, encouraging the public to weigh the administration’s successes against occasional challenges.
“No government is perfect, and challenges will arise. What matters is how those challenges are addressed and the overall trajectory of the country. By any measure, Guyana is moving in the right direction,” he concluded.
The Vice President’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some praising his call for perspective while others continue to scrutinize the government’s handling of the incident.
Nonetheless, Jagdeo’s focus remains on maintaining the administration’s momentum and delivering on its promises to the people of Guyana.