Dr. Campbell Again Urges Guyana Opposition to Unite Ahead of Elections

Businessman Dr. Terrence Campbell urged Guyana’s divided opposition parties to unite against the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government in a strong social media message posted Monday. Campbell was sharing his view a day after participation in the Justice for Adrianna march in New York, where he also received a U.S. Congressional Honour during the 59th independence anniversary celebrations. He expressed frustration over the persistent opposition divisions and the failure of key leaders to come together.

“I was schooled on the importance of a coalition for victory over the PPP,” Campbell said, recounting his conversations with supporters both in Guyana and the diaspora. He issued a pointed warning to Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Aubrey Norton and Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) Nigel Hughes, highlighting growing dissatisfaction with their inability to form a united front.

 While acknowledging the recent entry of Team Mohamed into the race, Campbell cautioned that this development is only a temporary fix, not a sustainable solution for opposition supporters.

“The supporters of the PPP turn a blind eye to its corruption since they view the current Opposition as lacking managerial competence. In one fell swoop, a Carl Greenidge candidacy will overcome those concerns,” Campbell said. He urged Norton and Hughes to give serious consideration to Greenidge’s candidacy.

Greendige served as former minister, vice president and foreign secretary in the PNC government and A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition government. He is credited with turning around the Guyana economy with the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) that delivered more than a decade of growth.

“History will judge us harshly if we fail to rise to the occasion, join forces, and seize victory,” Campbell urged. “Personal sacrifice will be necessary. Ask not what your supporters can do for you, but what you can do for your supporters and the people of Guyana!”

The call for unity echoes a similar message Campbell made a week ago, when he publicly endorsed Carl Greenidge as a consensus presidential candidate for the opposition. Campbell praised Greenidge’s experience and knowledge, especially his tenure as Finance Minister in the 1990s, where he helped steer Guyana back to economic growth.

“Carl has the knowledge and experience to avoid the failures of the last coalition,” Campbell said. “His leadership can address concerns about the opposition’s managerial competence—concerns that many PPP supporters overlook due to perceived weaknesses on the other side.”

Campbell expressed his willingness to serve in such an administration if invited, underscoring his commitment to opposition unity.

As Guyana heads to General and Regional Elections scheduled for September 1^st, anxiety among opposition supporters is rising amid internal divisions and growing demands for united and new leadership to challenge the People’s Progressive Party at the polls.

A recent credible poll revealed that 62% of respondents believe Guyana needs new national leadership. Confidence in both President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has plunged, with only 29% and 25% of respondents, respectively, expressing trust in their leadership.

The poll also dealt a blow to PNCR leader Aubrey Norton, showing 69% opposition to his continued leadership of the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition. Only 31% expressed support for him, raising doubts about his viability as a national candidate.

Both Norton and Hughes are believed to be aware of these sobering numbers, which are likely influencing ongoing discussions over a compromise candidate. Many hope the opposition leadership can put the nation first and find the strongest candidate to challenge the PPP.

Meanwhile, Azruddin Mohamed, who has declared his presidential bid, has been actively engaging with communities, encouraging voter registration. As he tours Guyana, he has attracted large crowds, signaling growing grassroots support.

Campbell’s statements underscore mounting pressure on opposition leaders to set aside differences and present a cohesive front in the crucial electoral contest ahead.