APNU Youth Candidates Call for Inclusive Governance and Policy Reforms
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – In recognition of International Youth Day 2025, young candidates from the Partnership for National Unity (APNU) are calling for a political shift toward governance that represents the interests of all Guyanese youth, regardless of race, religion, creed, or political affiliation.
Eden Corbin, 27, a former youth parliamentarian and APNU candidate, told HGP Nightly News that the next government must ensure inclusion across the board.
“Once successful at the elections on September 1st, my duty will not just be to the youth of APNU. My duty will be to the youth of Guyana,” Corbin said.
Corbin argued that the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has operated in an exclusionary manner, often making citizens feel pressured to show political loyalty before receiving benefits.
“Whether or not you supported my party as a government, we need to take care of everybody. That is where the PPP has fallen short,” he stated, adding that inclusion will encourage more young people to participate in politics.
Tackling Racial Politics
Corbin also voiced concern over the racial divisions that often surface during election periods.
“Why does it have to be that when we get into politics, it has to get racial? We need to move beyond that,” he said, expressing optimism about the number of passionate young candidates emerging from both major parties.
Work-and-Study Policy Under Review
Another APNU candidate, Dylan Muhammad, noted that the party is examining ways to reform Guyana’s work-and-study culture. He argued that this system, once seen as a necessity, arose because the PPP government in the 1990s removed free tuition at the University of Guyana.
“We seem to be proud of it, but the truth is, it exists because of a policy failure. Education at UG should be accessible without forcing students to work excessively while studying,” Muhammad said.
International Youth Day Theme
This year’s International Youth Day is celebrated under the theme “Local Youth Actions for SDGs and Beyond.” The For Guyana Movement, in its observance, commended young people’s energy, creativity, and leadership, highlighting their role in building sustainable, just, and innovative communities.
