GEORGETOWN – The APNU Coalition says that if it returns to office, members of Guyana’s police force and military can expect a major boost in pay, benefits, and living conditions — part of what the party calls a renewed commitment to national security and the welfare of those who protect it.
In a detailed plan released Friday, the coalition promised a salary increase of up to 35% for soldiers and police officers, yearly bonuses, and a new tax-free threshold of $400,000 per month within its first year in office. The plan also includes an annual $100,000 cash transfer, a minimum wage and starting salary of at least $200,000 per month, and access to the same subsidies and allowances it has proposed for all citizens — including rent-to-own housing, child allowances for dependents under 18, and water and electricity subsidies.
Other pledges include merit-based promotions, expanded training scholarships, bursary awards for children of service members, priority in house-lot allocation, and the creation of an expert commission to review living conditions, safety, and job satisfaction.
For the military specifically, APNU says it will improve barracks, especially for infantry and border units, and provide modern military equipment and armaments to strengthen national security. The coalition framed its platform as a direct response to concerns raised by members of the Joint Services about pay, working conditions, and career advancement.
“These benefits are not excessive — in fact, they under-compensate for the dedication and risk our military and police face daily,” the party stated.But APNU’s pitch comes amid a crowded field of election promises to the security sector.
The PPP/C government has already restored the tax-free year-end bonus for the Joint Services, increased wages since 2020, and pledged ongoing annual salary adjustments along with housing assistance for soldiers and police.
AFC Leader Nigel Hughes recently promised a $250,000 starting salary for military personnel, two months’ tax-free bonuses, $50,000 annual bonuses for those stationed at the borders, and $5 million compensation for permanent disability.
WIN Presidential Candidate Azruddin Mohamed has also floated proposals for cash incentives and expanded welfare benefits for uniformed ranks, although without detailed costing.
With all three major contenders offering significant increases in pay and perks, questions remain over how these packages will be financed — and whether they can be delivered without placing long-term strain on the national budget.
For now, the country’s police officers and soldiers are hearing what they’ve long wanted: better pay, better housing, and better conditions. Which party actually delivers may be decided at the ballot box
