GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — In a political twist few could not have predicted a decade ago, outspoken activist and former talk show firebrand C.N. Sharma has formally endorsed President Irfaan Ali and the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for a second term in office.
Sharma, once one of the PPP/C’s most relentless public critics, made the announcement alongside his wife Savitree Sharma. The couple expressed strong support for the government’s leadership and direction during a recent statement to the media, signalling a full-circle shift from his days as a fierce opposition voice.
“I see change within the party,” Sharma said. “Irfaan Ali shows he cares for all the Guyanese people of all races, equally. Well done, Irfaan!”Sharma, founder and leader of the Justice for All Party (JFAP), rose to national prominence through his popular television programme Voice of the People, where he consistently challenged the policies and performance of past PPP/C administrations.
His show became a platform for grassroots frustrations and gained a reputation for its unfiltered critiques of government officials, corruption, and inequality. But after stepping back from active political life and television broadcasting in recent years, Sharma says his perspective has evolved.
“I have a genuine concern for the voiceless people of Guyana, and I see we have a president who cares about the people,” he said. “Guyana is progressing with a bright future for all the people of this country.”
The Sharmas’ political party, the JFAP, which had been part of the APNU Coalition government, broke ranks following the contentious March 2020 General and Regional Elections.
JFAP publicly accepted the results of the national recount, declared that the PPP/C had won fairly, and called for Irfaan Ali’s swearing-in without further delay. “I was once a loud voice against the government, I have no apologies for keeping them in line,” Sharma said.
“But unity and support is necessary for progress to continue for the good of all Guyanese.” The endorsement adds a notable figure to the PPP/C’s growing list of public supporters as the party gears up for the 2025 elections.
It also highlights the changing political landscape, where long-standing rivalries may be giving way to unexpected alliances, especially as economic growth, national unity, and governance become central themes of the upcoming campaign.
