Dear Editor,
Kindly permit me space in your column to have this missive published.
The People’s National Congress (PNC) has been before I was conceived and will remain long after my earthly departure. Established more than 60 years ago by its Founder Leader, the late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, the PNC was built with strong structures at both the Central and Regional levels.
The Party is firmly grounded on its five core principles enshrined in its Constitution, and guided by the Congress, Central Executive Committee, and General Council—bodies where decisions are made. To this day, these structures remain active within the framework of the Party, making it the only mass-based political organisation in Guyana with such a resilient and enduring system.
In my view, the PNCR continues to be the only political entity that many right-thinking Guyanese genuinely believe in, because its ideology is centered on improving the lives of ordinary people, giving hope, and building a citizenry that contributes meaningfully to national development.
It is true that the Party is facing challenges—like many organizations do. But this is not new to the PNCR. Following the change of government in 1992, the Party faced a massive exodus, yet it remained viable and continued to be a voice for thousands of Guyanese. Historical records remind us that in 1997, the PNC was cheated at the polls, but it did not surrender the struggle.
In the 2006 General and Regional Elections (GRE), under the leadership of Cde. Robert Corbin, the PNCR secured twenty-two (22) parliamentary seats. In 2011, under the APNU banner led by Cde. David Granger, the Party won twenty-six (26) seats.
By 2015, as part of the APNU+AFC coalition, we captured thirty-three (33) seats and formed the government. Even in the contentious 2020 elections, the Party; again under APNU+AFC—secured thirty-one (31) seats.
The point here is clear, despite being out of government since 1992, the PNCR has demonstrated resilience and has continued to improve its performances at various electoral stages. No one should ever write off the PNCR.
As a stalwart, I will continue to serve, regardless of the difficulties. With renewed spirit and vigour, I am convinced that the PNCR will rise again. It is my duty to encourage our membership and supporters not to lose hope. Across this country, I have engaged with persons from different ethnic and social backgrounds, all of whom share the same plea: do not let the legacy of our Founder Leader, the late LFSB, die.
It is time for the leadership and membership to engage in deep introspection of the current state of the Party, to find solid resolve, and to move forward united and strong. I also look forward to the return of many comrades who may have drifted, so that together we can rebuild this great institution. We cannot remain divided, for in unity there is strength.
I hold firmly to the belief that the PNCR will rise again. May the blessings of Almighty God be with us all.
Yours truly,
Annette Ferguson
