As the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) prepares to contest the September General and Regional Elections under the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) banner, the party has received a firm endorsement from former President David Granger, affirming his unwavering loyalty.
Granger told the Kaieteur News, “I affirm, unhesitatingly that there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning in my support for the People’s National Congress.” He highlighted his history as party leader and presidential candidate, noting his efforts led the coalition to secure nearly 218,000 votes and 31 seats in the 2020 elections. Granger emphasised that his dedication to the rank-and-file—“especially the women and young people”—remains resolute despite stepping back from electoral politics in 2020.
Granger’s declaration follows a wave of high-profile resignations and defections, including former Member of Parliament (MP) Geeta Chandan‑Edmond (endorsing President Ali) and Region Four leaders Daniel Seeram and Samuel Sandy. New political entities such as Forward Guyana and the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), and We Invest in Guyana (WIN) have also surfaced in response to these splits
However, former President Granger downplayed concerns about the effect of defections, distinguishing today’s departures from historically significant schisms—like Burnham’s 1957 People’s Progressive Party (PPP) split or the founding of the Alliance for Change (AFC). He affirmed current defections reflect personal motives rather than ideological shifts
Still, Granger acknowledged the impact of recent resignations, especially among young female MPs. “The…opposition parties need to address, not dismiss, the internal ‘push factors’ that triggered their decisions,” he said. Granger warned against a dangerous “copycat” effect — particularly ahead of the September elections.
He criticised the PPP for inducing defections from smaller parties before accusing them of abandoning their voters. “Small parties can play a role … and their collapse is regrettable,” he noted
With ten weeks to go until election day, Granger urged citizens, especially first-time voters, to stay focused. He said elections shouldn’t be “won by splendid defections” but by delivering on local issues such as safety, schooling, sanitation, and infrastructure. Granger underscored that voter turnout signals to major parties that they must compete with inclusionary promises, not just grand gestures.
