Undoubtedly, the 2025 National Budget Debate has ushered in a rare endorsement, which the ordinary man should be proud of.
During yesterday’s debates in the National Assembly, Opposition Parliamentarian Geeta Chandan-Edmond stated firmly, “There are measures in this budget that can and should be supported by all sides.”
It is customary for the APNU+AFC Opposition to heavily criticise the budget, and even Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo recently called them out over their “rudimentary” analysis of this year’s fiscal plan.
But Chandan-Edmond’s thoughtful evaluation highlights that the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) initiatives are striking a chord across political divides.
In her speech, Chandan-Edmond eloquently articulated a vision of unity and progress that transcends political lines.
Moreover, the MP’s support for the One Guyana Digital School, which she said is a “bold step” towards modernising Guyana’s education system, is a standout in the budget. It will modernise the education system and equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
Furthermore, her praise of measures such as reduced electricity costs when the gas-to-energy project comes on stream and toll elimination for commuters across several bridges, including the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, shows that these initiatives resonate with the aspirations of ordinary Guyanese.
Besides, the government’s part-time job programme and significant allocations for police training were also praised by the Opposition Parliamentarian.
Premised on this, Chandan-Edmond’s acknowledgement of these initiatives signals that even the Opposition recognises the value these initiatives will bring to Guyana.
Her metaphor, comparing President Dr. Irfaan Ali to Spider-Man, highlights the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership in these transformative times.
With great power comes great responsibility, and this Administration has consistently shown its commitment to wielding this power for the collective good.
Thus, we hope Chandan-Edmond’s colleagues, who have not yet debated, will return to the drawing board and give Jack his jacket because, as Minister Susan Rodrigues said, ‘PPP/C policies will take care of people from the cradle to the grave.”
