AFC Region Seven Chair endorses President Ali

David Daniels, the Alliance For Change’s (AFC) Region Seven Chairman and Founder of the Small Miners Association, has publicly endorsed President Dr Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) ahead of the upcoming General and Regional Elections scheduled for 1 September 2025.
Daniels declared that the PPP/C’s developmental agenda, particularly in the mining sector, resonates strongly with his own vision and that of the Small Miners Association.
“I believe President Ali’s direction is aligned with mine and that of the small mining community,” Daniels stated. “He has demonstrated a commitment to the sector—not just to oil and gas—but to mining and small miners in particular. This is the kind of leadership we need.”
Daniels, who has long advocated for the rights and welfare of small miners nationwide, acknowledged that while he had previously joined the AFC with the hope of improving representation, he feels the PPP/C administration has delivered tangible support to the sector.
“When I joined the AFC back in 2018, it was because I saw a lack of representation in key areas like infrastructure in our region—areas that directly impacted our people,” he explained. “But over time, I have seen real engagement from President Ali and his team. For the past two years, we’ve had ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Natural Resources and other state agencies. The President and his ministers have been receptive to the issues facing small miners.”
Highlighting his years of advocacy through the Small Miners Association, Daniels credited the current government’s inclusive approach and policy direction as a driving force behind his endorsement.
“I represent the small mining constituency, and I believe this government is best positioned to continue advancing the interests of those I serve,” he said. “While I am grateful to the AFC for the opportunity they gave me in politics, I believe our paths have diverged. My priority is to follow a vision that uplifts my people.”
Daniels said his support for President Ali and the PPP/C is rooted in shared goals, particularly the push to ensure small miners have a stronger voice at the national level. He also praised the responsiveness of Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, who has worked closely with the association to address key industry concerns.
With this endorsement, Daniels joins a growing number of political and civil society figures who have crossed party lines to support the PPP/C’s development agenda ahead of the 2025 elections.