By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
Following the presentation of Guyana’s $1.558 trillion 2026 National Budget, themed “Putting People First,” opposition leaders have strongly criticized it, arguing that the fiscal plan falls short of addressing the real needs of ordinary citizens.
Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed contends that despite the government’s stated commitment to people-centred development, the budget overwhelmingly favours the administration, its close associates, and selected interest groups.
According to Mohamed, hundreds of billions of dollars have been earmarked for large-scale capital works and infrastructure projects, while direct investment in human development and support for vulnerable groups remains inadequate.
He pointed to provisions for persons living with disabilities, who will receive only a $3,000 monthly increase, bringing their total support to $25,000 per month. Mohamed described the adjustment as insufficient and disconnected from the realities faced by persons with disabilities. Public assistance recipients, he noted, are also set to receive the same modest increase, which critics argue does little to offset the rising cost of living.
The opposition leader further expressed disappointment with the government’s approach to pensions. Under the 2026 budget, pensioners will receive $46,000 per month, along with a one-time transportation grant of $20,000. Mohamed highlighted that this falls well short of earlier commitments made by President Irfaan Ali, including a $60,000 monthly pension and a $50,000 transportation grant.
“Pensioners have contributed their entire lives to this country and deserve more meaningful support in their retirement years,” Mohamed said, adding that the measures announced do not reflect the sacrifices made by senior citizens.
Adding to the criticism, APNU Member of Parliament Dr. Dexter Todd argued that the budget fails to meaningfully confront several long-standing national challenges. These include the high cost of living, unemployment, and persistent shortcomings in the health sector, particularly the shortage of doctors and medical professionals.
Dr. Todd also highlighted concerns about teacher remuneration and wages for essential workers, noting that salaries remain uncompetitive compared to those in other Caribbean countries. He questioned the government’s commitment to improving living standards if wage levels continue to lag behind regional benchmarks.
Opposition figures collectively maintain that while the 2026 budget carries a people-focused slogan, its priorities suggest otherwise. They argue that infrastructure development has once again taken precedence over social welfare, income security, and human capital investment.
As Guyana moves deeper into an era of unprecedented fiscal expansion, the debate over the nation’s spending priorities continues to intensify, underscoring the widening gap between government assurances and opposition concerns over whether the benefits of growth are truly reaching the people.
