More than 1,200 Linden small contractors empowered, billions invested in region

The government is focused on empowering ordinary Guyanese, including small contractors and young people, said General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, as he rejected claims of “social bribes” by critics.

Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thursday, Dr Jagdeo emphasised that the government’s infrastructure programmes, especially in Linden, are part of a broader national strategy that predates the current election season.

He said the government’s approach in Linden is reflective of efforts nationwide to democratise access to government contracts, particularly in the construction sector.

“In Linden alone, we had over 500 small contractors in 2023 and close to 700 this year. These were individuals who, before 2020, had never received work. Many were openly critical of the PPP but are now benefitting from a system we reformed to give opportunities to small players,” Jagdeo stated.

He noted that over $7 billion was invested in road works in Region 10 last year, with the figure rising to approximately $10 billion this year. Contracts valued under $15 million are now allocated based on rates rather than competitive bidding, a change aimed at preventing domination by a handful of large firms.

Dr Jagdeo also highlighted that contracts are prioritised for individuals living in the regions where projects are being executed. This policy has led to the emergence of hundreds of new contractors in Regions Two, Four, Five, and Six, many of whom are executing road and community projects.

The former president explained that the government is laying the groundwork for its next term by identifying major areas for continued investment, including building concrete drainage systems to combat the effects of climate change, especially since much of Guyana lies below sea level.

He revealed that in addition to completing most community roads along the coast, future plans include installing security cameras, upgrading recreational spaces, and improving garbage collection.

“This is not just about Linden. We’re creating livable, climate-resilient communities across the country,” Dr Jagdeo affirmed.

Addressing criticisms from the opposition about supposed plans they had for Linden, he pointed out that the PPP/C administration has already delivered where others failed.

He cited the US$161 million rehabilitation of the Linden–Soesdyke Highway and other infrastructure upgrades underway in the town. “They claimed they were planning to do these projects, but they never did anything in five years,” Dr Jagdeo remarked.

He also used the press conference to speak about his engagements with over 1,000 young people in Linden, part of the PPP’s ongoing nationwide outreach.

“We don’t reduce youth policy to giving away footballs and cricket bats. Young people want access to education, jobs, homes, and a safe environment — and we see them as central to Guyana’s development,” he stated.

Dr Jagdeo urged the youth to apply for government scholarships through the GOAL programme and to take advantage of free tertiary education now available at the University of Guyana. He also encouraged them to apply for house lots and explore entrepreneurship, noting the government’s plan to establish a development bank to finance small businesses.

Road works in Linden (DPI photo)