Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, on Wednesday defended the government’s 2026 Budget, assuring citizens that it is a continuation of the administration’s work to improve the lives of all segments of society.
During his fiery presentation in the National Assembly, the minister acknowledged that some citizens continue to live in poverty, but noted that each budget is designed to have a meaningful impact on people’s lives, ensuring their social needs are met while setting the foundation for a promising future.
“Their development, their success, their achievements, advancing our national development and ensuring that our development covers every sphere of our society with strategic outcomes, this is what the 2026 budget does. It prepares our society for another wave of success, and that’s why this budget is a budget for all the people. It puts people first,” he said.
The minister added, “Yes, there are a lot of things to do, and no one ever said or understands this job to be a job of magic where everything happens overnight. It is a continuous work at development, a continuous programme that brings about and adds value to lives on a daily basis across our country.”
Responding to criticisms of the government’s infrastructure programme, McCoy argued that building out Guyana is a necessity and stressed that such development has a human dimension. “It provides opportunity for contractors. It provides an opportunity for people in small businesses. It provides opportunity for the man and the woman in the street,” he noted.
He highlighted too that the budget was crafted with a clear understanding of the realities facing citizens and represents an investment in people’s lives. “We are out there with people every single day listening to them and learning about the challenges they face and that’s why we are capable of putting together a good plan and a plan that works for all people,” McCoy added.
He further assured citizens that the PPP/C government remains committed to their development and success. “Because we signed up to it and we will not let you down. We will continue to build you. We will continue to invest in all the things that you need and to make sure that your lives become better as the days go by,” the minister concluded.