On an early morning visit to Linden, Region 10 on Sunday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali who intended to embark on an inspection of the ongoing progress of the new Wismar Bridge found himself welcomed by a large crowd eager to hear his vision for the future.
The gathering in Victory Valley was an unexpected yet significant moment for the President to engage directly with the people of Linden, a region historically known as a stronghold of the opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R).
In his address, Dr. Ali shared his philosophy of “oneness” and “unity,” stressing that his administration’s focus is not on power but on ensuring that every Guyanese, including those in Linden, benefits from the development being brought to the country.
He specifically asked the people of Linden to support the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in the upcoming 2025 general elections, calling it a step towards political responsibility, not political power.
“What we seek is not power, we seek your support so that we can win here and get the political responsibility to show you what good selfless leadership can further bring to your region.
“I am asking for political responsibility, not political power,” said the President, pointing out that the opposition had failed to deliver on their promises.
In the message to the people of Linden, the President emphasized the inclusive nature of his administration and its commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
“The PPP/C is open to everyone who wants to be a part of this journey toward building One Guyana. Come, join us in creating a prosperous and unified future for all,” he said.
Dr. Ali repeatedly urged citizens to look beyond political divisions and embrace a shared vision of progress.
The President was accompanied by several key ministers, including Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, Ministers of Public Works Juan Edghill and Deodat Indar, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson, and Lindener Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd.
The ministers provided updates on the various ongoing projects in the region, particularly in infrastructure, housing, and sports development.
Among the most notable developments discussed was the construction of 11 new housing areas in Linden, with hundreds of thousands of house lots set to be distributed this year. The region will also see several sporting facilities completed this year, as well as new roads and upgrades to existing ones.
Dr. Ali outlined plans for major tourism investments in Linden, focusing on creating jobs and enhancing opportunities in various sectors to give Lindeners the dignity they deserve. He firmly rejected accusations that accepting such development would make Lindeners “sellouts” or “bought over.”
“Whoever denies the progress in Linden, which Minister Edghill describes as the best economic times since the glory days of bauxite, has a problem with their sight,” Dr. Ali declared.
The President took the opportunity to engage opposition members, including sitting MP Jermaine Figueira and former MP and Minister of Housing Valarie Patterson Yearwood, urging them to embrace the reality of progress and work together for the good of all Guyanese.
“No force that seeks to spread hate and division has a place in modern Guyana. We are building a society that is inclusive, where every citizen has a role in moving forward,” he asserted.
A significant portion of Dr. Ali’s message focused on the tangible investments made by the PPP/C in Linden since coming to office in 2020.
Over the last few years, almost $6 billion has been invested in Region 10—an amount more than six times greater than what the previous administration spent during its five years in office.
Last year alone, $7.6 billion was invested in roadworks under the miscellaneous road programme, creating numerous local jobs, with 535 roads being built.
Dr. Ali pointed out that despite these significant investments, some critics continue to deny the progress in the region.
“From 2020 to now, we’ve seen $96 billion in large-scale infrastructural investments, including the Linden-Soesdyke Highway and the Linden-Mabura Road Link, which extends to Lethem.
The previous government spent less than 0.3% of this amount, yet some still claim nothing is being done. This is the reality, and no one can run from it,” he said passionately.
As the conversation turned to the upcoming 2025 elections, Dr. Ali concluded his remarks by reinforcing his call for unity.
“Together we are better. Together we are stronger. One Guyana is the only option, and the unity of our people is the only way forward,” he said, urging Lindeners to continue supporting the PPP/C for the future growth and prosperity of the region and the nation.
The President’s visit to Linden, though initially focused on a routine inspection, turned into a powerful rallying cry for unity and support.
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