A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) convened on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Congress Place, Sophia, marking the first meeting chaired by Aubrey Norton MP since he succeeded David Granger as APNU leader in January 2022. Norton’s extended silence after assuming the role had created a leadership vacuum within the coalition.
This meeting reflects a new beginning for APNU after the June 6, 2024, gathering, during which Vincent Henry of the Guyana Action Party (GAP) was elected Chair in Norton’s absence. The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) refused to recognise that meeting and its outcomes, creating a rift in the coalition. Henry’s attendance at Thursday’s meeting signaled a move toward bridging that gap.
Filling the Leadership Void
Norton having assumed the leadership of APNU failed to convene any meetings. This inactivity left the coalition in limbo, with unresolved questions about its direction and functionality.
The June 6, 2024, meeting highlighted this void. Norton did not attend despite being formally notified, according to an APNU release issued on June 8. Emails sent on June 3 and June 5 went unanswered, prompting the coalition to proceed with its agenda. During that session, Henry was elected Chair, and the vacant General Secretary role was filled by Tabitha Sarabo-Halley MP, Leader of the Guyana Nation Builders.
The PNCR rejected the outcomes, claiming it was not properly informed, while APNU asserted that all proper procedures were followed and criticized the PNCR’s absence as detrimental to coalition unity.
A New Path Forward
Thursday’s meeting brought together representatives from GAP’s (Vincent Henry MP), the National Front Alliance (NFA) led by Cordel Joseph, and PNCR leaders Norton, Shurwayne Holder MP (PNCR Chairman), and Sherwin C. Benjamin (PNCR General Secretary).
A release from the PNCR described the meeting as an effort to “streamline and strengthen the Partnership” by addressing its structural and organisational gaps. Discussions centered on recruiting new members, convening regular meetings, and fostering greater engagement with stakeholders across the nation.
The absence of Sarabo-Halley MP and Jaipaul Sharma (Leader of the Equal Rights and Justice Party)—both present at the disputed June 6 meeting— suggests all may not be well or there exits highlighted lingering divisions.
Renewing Commitments
The APNU reaffirmed its commitment to serving the people of Guyana, emphasising unity under a shared vision of democratic values, equality, and accountability. The coalition pledged to strengthen its internal structure, broaden its base, and prioritise citizen engagement.
The meeting marked a long-awaited effort to reestablish APNU as a functioning and united political coalition after months of uncertainty. However, the true test will lie in whether the Partnership can maintain cohesion and address ongoing challenges in its quest for meaningful change.
