Norton Blames Finances and Party Disunity for APNU’s 2025 Defeat
By Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News
Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton, has outlined several reasons why he believes the coalition fared poorly in the 2025 General and Regional Elections. Speaking on the program Sources, Norton described the results as a culmination of financial, structural, and unity-related challenges that weakened the party’s campaign.
Money as a Decisive Factor
Norton identified finances as the leading issue, arguing that rivals significantly outspent APNU.
“There’s no doubt that some people were carried away by the wealth on that side. Moving forward, we have to find wealthy people willing to support APNU,” he asserted.
He emphasized that political dynamics in Guyana have shifted, making financial resources a critical element for electioneering.
“It can no longer be a situation where you just rely on policies and programs. You have to have money—that is going to be a critical factor,” Norton stressed.
Resignations and Internal Challenges
The PNCR leader also admitted that a wave of resignations and the loss of prominent members damaged the party’s image. However, he downplayed their direct impact on votes, suggesting instead that some grassroots supporters drifted to WIN, partly out of sympathy for its presidential candidate and partly due to the appeal of financial resources.
“If you do a careful analysis, it’s some of our ground soldiers who went to WIN that helped, rather than the persons who ended up at the top,” Norton explained.
Lessons for 2030
Looking ahead, Norton underscored the need for unity within the party and a stronger financial base to prepare for the 2030 elections. He argued that unless APNU adapts to the new realities of politics, it risks being sidelined further.
