Rodrigues-Birkett says President Ali ‘stands alone on the international stage’

With one day to go before Guyanese vote, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett on Saturday praised President Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s global stature, calling him unmatched in leadership and international recognition.

Speaking at the PPP/C’s final rally in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, Rodrigues-Birkett told thousands of supporters that Ali’s reputation abroad reflects his performance at home.

“President Ali has made his name on the international stage. He has respect internationally, and you can only get respect internationally when you’re doing a good job,” she said, adding that the PPP/C is “the right team to lead us.”

Rodrigues-Birkett contrasted Ali with the opposition, questioning their credibility. “There is no comparison. Can you imagine that we have one that is sanctioned and one that cannot remember when is Election Day?” she said, dismissing the idea of a sanctioned businessman representing Guyana before the United Nations.

She argued the PPP/C has a record of delivery. “We have shown that when we commit, we deliver, and when we say we are doing it, we are doing it,” she said.

Ali has gained recognition internationally for championing climate change, biodiversity and peace. He chaired a UN Security Council debate earlier this year and hosted the first Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit in July. He has also received awards including the 2024 Global Leadership Award for Open Innovation from the University of California, Berkeley, and the Wilson Award from the Wilson Centre.

Rodrigues-Birkett told supporters these accomplishments show the calibre of leadership Guyana needs and urged them to back the PPP/C at Monday’s polls.