Jagdeo: Afro-Guyanese remain centre of government’s development plans

Afro-Guyanese communities across Guyana remain at the centre of the PPP’s ongoing and future development plans, according to party General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
Speaking at his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo addressed questions regarding the PPP’s growing support in Afro-Guyanese communities. He dismissed suggestions that the increased turnout was due to political “recycling” of supporters.
He labelled such claims as “disparaging” and instead pointed to what he described as visible, organic support driven by real development efforts.
Addressing current traffic disruptions on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara, Dr Jagdeo explained that these are the result of large-scale road projects.
He said the construction of four-lane highways connecting areas such as Garden of Eden and Craig will significantly benefit Afro-Guyanese neighbourhoods.
“These are communities that will see major upgrades, modern roads, new bypasses, better traffic flow. Yes, it’s disruptive now, but the end result will be stronger, safer neighbourhoods with better opportunities for residents,” he said.
Dr Jagdeo emphasised that the new infrastructure will also create economic spin-offs. He noted that as roads expand and bypasses open, small businesses, vendors, and contractors in communities like Melanie Damishana, Buxton, and Lodge will benefit from improved transportation, roadside commerce, and access to government-backed contracts.
He further noted that Afro-Guyanese youth and small contractors are already benefitting from the PPP’s drive to award thousands of small, community-based contracts—covering works such as drainage, concrete paving, and road repairs—rather than allocating them only to large firms.
“These small contracts mean money in people’s pockets, not just in Georgetown but in communities like Lodge, Buxton, Agricola, and along the East Bank,” he said, adding that many of these initiatives help keep money circulating within communities, providing jobs and skill-building opportunities for young men and women.
The PPP General Secretary urged Afro-Guyanese voters to focus on the party’s current actions and delivery when they go to the polls.
“We’re building for every Guyanese family, no matter their background,” he asserted.