Opposition MP, Christopher Jones, delivered a scathing critique of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), shedding light on their deceptive tactics and false promises. In his Sophia speech, Jones claimed that property values in Georgetown have recently tripled due to oil industry demands and the PPP is looking to exploit property lease opportunities. Jones stated that the PPP want control of the Georgetown, New Amsterdam and Linden constituencies in order to pass laws which will dispossess African land owners of their lands. Jones emphasized the importance of speaking the truth about what is truly happening in Guyana.
The opposition MP highlighted an amnesty period provided by the APNU, which allowed people to pay their taxes and protect their properties. Jones also revealed the truth behind the massive road construction projects across the country, indicating that it is not intended for the residents of the area or else they would make upgrading local streets where residents already live a priority. Instead the PPP are pre-selling lands in areas they have identified for road construction and cited an example where lands on both sides of the recently opened road near “the jumbie bird” were already sold to PPP cronies before construction of the road. The opposition MP argued that the PPP/C invests hundreds of millions of dollars in road projects only when they expect substantial returns. Jones challenges the PPP to reveal who owns the lands on either side of all the highways currently being constructed in Guyana.
Continuing his scathing critique, Jones turned his attention to the issue of property ownership in areas like Punt Trench Dam and Albouystown. He drew attention to the alarming absence of legal documentation, such as transport or leases, for the homes in these areas. Despite individuals claiming ownership based on familial ties or personal history, the harsh reality is that without proper documentation, their claims hold no legal weight. Jones cautioned that if the PPP/C gains control of the municipality, they will seize this opportunity to target houses lacking valid proof of ownership. Furthermore, he revealed the PPP’s refusal to provide amnesty to homeowners with outstanding back taxes, in stark contrast to the APNU’s previous actions. Instead, the PPP/C intends to foreclose on properties of owners unable to settle their outstanding tax liabilities. This announcement raises concerns, especially considering the recent eviction of homeowners in Mocha who were unable to provide proper proof of ownership. Families who had resided in these areas for up to 40 years were forcibly evicted due to the lack of documentation to support their claims of ownership.
The opposition MP clarified that the law can be changed to suit the PPP/C’s interests. He stated that if the party wishes to rename Sophia, they can change the law to make it possible, disregarding objections from the community. Jones further illustrated how the PPP/C altered the law regarding the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in parliament requiring equal representation from both parties for a meeting to proceed. This manipulation has resulted in several cancelled meetings and a lack of accountability and transparency regarding the country’s finances. Jones pointed out that as many as 17 meetings had to be canceled due to the PPP/C’s absence, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to openness.
Christopher Jones’ claimed that the PPP is using, “deceptive tactics and lack of genuine concern for the well-being of the people. It is crucial for Guyanese citizens to critically evaluate the party’s claims, question their actions, and demand true transparency and accountability in governance.”
