In what many are calling a blatant misuse of public funds, it has become increasingly clear that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government has been using cash grant programs as a political tool, favoring their own supporters while sidelining others in need. Reports indicate that more than 10 rounds of cash grants have already been quietly distributed in communities aligned with the PPP, leaving out those who are most vulnerable, including many Afro-Guyanese citizens who say they never received the promised COVID-19 relief.
More than half of Guyana’s population is genuinely suffering from the skyrocketed cost of living with food prices increasing by over 100% in just two years, while the Minister of Finance continues to downplay the impact of inflation, presenting figures that do not align with the economic reality faced by ordinary citizens. As families struggle to make ends meet, PPP representatives have been seen personally handing out large grants in PPP strongholds—further fueling allegations of discrimination.
Recent incidents show that cash grants are being distributed primarily to PPP supporters. During the month of October, large sums were reportedly handed out at Berbice High School, with some recipients receiving up to $250,000. Additionally, a week later, more cash grants were reportedly given in Albion, with witnesses reporting that only family members and close associates of PPP officials were allowed access.
Meanwhile, critical communities in need are left out of these programs. Now, the government has announced a new $100,000 grant for adults over 18, but details about its fair distribution remain unclear—further heightening frustrations and mistrust.
In communities like Best Klien Pouderoyen, those in desperate need say they were kept in the dark about government programs, as only PPP insiders were informed. “Imagine the government was sharing grants down West Coast, and they didn’t inform any of the people who are really in need,” one resident shared. “If you’re not a PPP supporter, you don’t get called for part-time jobs or grants. This nonsense has to stop.”
Similarly, concerns have emerged over the Fisherman Grant Program, with reports indicating that non-fishermen, including taxi drivers and conductors, were collecting the funds. Genuine fishermen, many of whom are struggling to keep their livelihoods afloat, have yet to receive a cent. “How is this fair?” asked one fisherman. “It’s like the system is rigged.”
Misuse of Public Funds and Political Discrimination
It is becoming alarmingly clear that public money is being treated as a PPP piggy bank—used to reward loyalists and maintain political dominance. As more cash is handed out selectively, it raises the critical question: How can public funds, meant for all citizens, be distributed so unequally? How is this even acceptable?
For two years now, the PPP government has run these grant programs with little oversight or accountability, giving rise to widespread allegations of favoritism. Citizens have reported that these grants are shared in secretive, partisan ways, with only PPP insiders being notified via selective whatsapp lists. This pattern, coupled with the worsening economic conditions, is leading many to lose faith in the government’s commitment to fairness.
With the government rolling out more cash grants, including the $100,000 per adult grant slated for release in early November, there is growing concern that the process will once again be shrouded in secrecy and bias. Citizens are calling for greater transparency and oversight to ensure that all Guyanese—regardless of political affiliation—benefit equally from these programs.
