In the face of a budget of over $1.38 trillion Guyana dollars for the year 2025, it is disheartening to see that one of the most crucial sectors for development—local government—continues to be treated with neglect and disrespect by the ruling PPP government. The glaring disparity in the remuneration of elected officials at the local level compared to those at the national level paints a clear picture of where the government’s priorities lie.
While ministers of government receive hefty salaries, exceeding 1.3 million Guyana dollars each month, elected mayors and deputy mayors are expected to carry out their vital responsibilities for a stipend that falls far below what is just.
New Amsterdam Mayor received a meagre 50,000 Guyana dollars, and deputy mayor get 20,000 Guyana dollars and for City of Georgetown, Mayor 150,000 Guyana dollars and deputy mayor 120,000 Guyana dollars. These sums are an insult to the immense responsibility these local leaders shoulder and the crucial role they play in the development of their communities and the country as a whole.
What’s even more concerning is that Guyana is the only country in the Caribbean, and arguably in the world, where local government officials face such disparity in compensation. We often hear about the importance of decentralizing power, improving local governance, and strengthening democracy, yet the treatment of mayors and deputy mayors tells a different story. How can we expect local government officials to remain motivated and committed to delivering services to their city , towns, and communities when they are constantly reminded that their work is undervalued?
A development-focused nation can not afford to continue in this manner.
As Guyana strives to build its future, we must recognize that local government plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the benefits of national growth are distributed equitably and sustainably. The work of mayors and deputy mayors is not merely symbolic; they are the first point of contact for citizens, addressing their daily needs and concerns. They are responsible for implementing policies that affect everything from healthcare to infrastructure on the ground.
It is high time for both the government and opposition to come together and work on a proper package that addresses the compensation and benefits of mayors and deputy mayors. These officials deserve fair pay that reflects their contribution to society. This is not just about raising salaries for the sake of it; it is about demonstrating that local leadership matters and that Guyana’s democracy is not just a top-down system, but one that values every level of governance.
The PPP government cannot continue to ignore the needs of local government officials while rewarding ministers handsomely. For Guyana to thrive as a true democracy, it must start by respecting and valuing the people who are closest to the communities. It is time to stop the mistreatment of mayors and deputy mayors and take meaningful steps toward correcting this imbalance.
It is time for the government, the opposition, and the people of Guyana to stand up for local government officials and ensure that they are given the respect, compensation, and benefits they deserve. A fair and just system will lead to a stronger nation, a more empowered democracy, and ultimately a more developed Guyana.
