GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – Former national cricketer turned businessman and now People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) councillor, Steven Jacobs, says his entry into politics came with a price, lost friendships, public ridicule, and personal attacks. Yet, he insists the struggle is worth it if it helps young Guyanese rise above racism and vote based on policies and performance rather than race.
Appearing on the programme Starting Point, Jacobs opened up about his transition from the cricket field to the political arena. He explained that while many young people see politics as “toxic” or “polarised,” he chose to get involved because he wanted to be part of the solution. “Most young people might look at politics, and you know, it might look polarised or unattractive. But do you then just sit by and critique? Or do you get involved so that you can make sure this country develops?” Jacobs asked. “I want to be a part of the solution, so that the next generation inherits a better Guyana.”
But the former cricketer admits the backlash has been intense. As an Afro-Guyanese member of the PPP/C, Jacobs said he has endured harassment, verbal abuse, and even the loss of people he once considered close friends. “I lost quite a number of friends and people I consider to be close to me because I joined the People’s Progressive Party,” Jacobs revealed.
“Sometimes it is overwhelming… But no political party owns my vote or owns me. We have a unique opportunity as young people to break the shackles of racism.” His experience mirrors what other Afro-Guyanese PPP/C supporters have described in recent months—public vilification for aligning with the ruling party.
Jacobs, who now serves on the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, said he is often ridiculed more for his party affiliation than engaged on the policies he supports. He stressed that democracy should give every citizen the freedom to align with whichever party matches their vision for Guyana. “This is a democratic nation. We should be able to choose or be aligned with any political party that we consider holds our same ideology,” he stated. Ultimately, he hopes for a day when politics is fought not on race, but on ideas, skill, and track record.
With General and Regional Elections looming on September 1, Jacobs issued a direct appeal to young people: reject divisive politics and use their vote to put Guyana first. “September 1 is an opportunity to vote for policies, track record, a list of necessary skill set and govern this country,” he urged. For Jacobs, the message is simple but urgent: Guyana cannot move forward if its people remain chained to racial divisions. The choice, he insists, rests with the youth.
