Party leaders in Guyana’s general election.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana--On the eve of members of the Disciplined Services casting their ballots in this year’s General Elections, the political parties contesting the elections have been making their direct pitches to the members of the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Prison Service, who will be voting today.
Members of the Guyana Fire Service will vote with the rest of the country on September 1.
In a letter to the Disciplined Services, President Irfaan Ali, who is seeking re-election, said his party, the PPP Civic, does not merely commend the service of the Disciplined Services, but they reward it.
He said over the past five years, the PPP Government has restored dignity, improved conditions, and provided the tools needed for members of the services to serve with pride, adding that his government has kept its promises to the Disciplined Services.
He also reminded that over the past five years, the Government has restored the one-month tax free bonus resulting in $2 billion more per year to the disciplined services, while ensuring they have the right tools and a better work environment.
The President noted that when the families of Disciplined Services members are cared for, their service grows stronger, and when their sacrifices are honored, the entire nation stands more secure and united. He promised that a PPP Civic Government will continue to deliver for those in uniform.
In its letter to members of the Disciplined Services, the APNU said that under the previous APNU Coalition Government, members of the Disciplined Services saw their salaries increase by 77% over the five year period. It is now promising salary increases of 35%, elimination of income tax for all service men and women earning less than $400,000 per month, annual one month bonus and a minimum cash transfer of $100,000.
The APNU is also promising better training for members of the Disciplined Services, expanded bursaries for their children, emphasis to be placed on a smarter, more savvy military, Police and fire fighter training, and the provision of innovative policing tools.
In a statement, former Deputy Commissioner of Police and APNU Candidate, Dr. Paul Williams would guarantee a better life, and the restoration of respect and public trust for the Disciplined Services.
“I implore upon you to vote wisely and privately. You do not have to show anyone who you have voted for. Such act is criminal. Do not be caught in such act. You are trained to caution suspect, but if they produce evidence after being cautioned, then the crime is easily served. If you show anyone who you voted for, that is evidence that you can be held and used against you criminally and forces you to compromise. Do not be fooled. Vote for a change now”, he said.
Presidential Candidate for the WIN party, Azruddin Mohamed also released a video statement to the members of the Disciplined Services. In his pitch to the women and men in uniform, he promised to reduce the cost of house lots by 40% for all service members, Provide a grant of up to $700,000 to help them start the foundation for their homes, offer
significant increases to their salaries and allowances and offer more support for their families.
“We will ensure there is a significant increase in your committed overtime and we will continue to give you your year-end bonus. Your sacrifice keeps Guyana safe. Under WIN, you will be treated with the respect, dignity and professionalism you deserve. As the next President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, I have listened, I have recognized your sacrifice and service. You deserve better and you will get what you deserve”, Mohamed said.
Alliance for Change Leader and Presidential Candidate, Nigel Hughes in his message, thanked the men and women of the Disciplined Services for their commitment to their jobs over the years. He promised that under an AFC government, no member of the disciplined services will earn less than $250,000 a month.
Hughes said the members of the Disciplined Services deserve fair promotions, that are free from politics, adding that they also deserve training that matches their courage, along with scholarships and attachments.
“If your name is Corporal Joseph, Constable Singh, Sergeant Williams, Officer Khan, I’m asking you, as a person genuinely committed to building a better Guyana, give me your vote. Give the Alliance for Change your vote on August 22nd. Because I understand what you’re going through. Because you deserve better. The election is about necessary change. It’s about purpose. And this is your moment to help change the course of our country. Better must come, and it begins with your vote. Early, proudly, and decisively”, Hughes stated.
Presidential Candidate of the Forward Guyana Movement, Amanza Walton-Desir, in a message said the Forward Guyana movement recognizes that the men and women of the Police, Defense, Fire, and Prison services operate under conditions that are fundamentally different to the civilian public service. “We will ensure fair promotions, independent oversight, and an end to political interference in your service. This is not talk. This will be written into law. So on election day, honor your oath and your service. Vote for the movement that will honor you. Look for the wheel, put your X next to the wheel, and vote the Forward Guyana movement because real change just can’t wait”, Walton-Desir said.
Meanwhile, Presidential Candidate of the Assembly of Liberty and Prosperity, Simona Broomes in a Facebook statement said it is time for members of the Disciplined Services and their jobs to be taken seriously. She said for too long, too many of them have been taken for granted.
“We in the ALP are saying that the men and women in uniform deserve to flourish, and all Guyanese equally”, she said.
Broomes said she would focus on better allowances, salaries and pension plans for all members of the joint services, while ensuring better equipment and facilities for them to do their job.
There are more than 10,000 members of the Disciplined Services listed to vote today, ahead of the rest of the country in the upcoming elections.
