Norton wants more oil money for Guyanese, Ali promises lower taxes, higher wages

Last Updated on Thursday, 1 January 2026, 2:58 by Writer

Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform-controlled A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton, in a New Year’s Day message said Guyanese deserve more money from the oil sector, but President Irfaan Ali promised lower taxes and higher wages and salaries.

Mr Norton said that with Guyana unacceptably and unfortunately saddled with a more-than 50 percent poverty rate, a large percentage of Guyanese need to benefit from the oil revenues.

He urged the government to muster the political will to take a people-centered approach by reallocating the oil earnings to benefit Guyanese.

“In this regard, the government should change the pattern of allocation of resources from benefitting the few and making the rich richer and the poor poorer. The time is nigh when we must ensure that all Guyanese share in our God-given wealth,” he said.

Mr Norton, who led APNU/PNCR into its worst electoral defeat at the September 1, 2025 general and regional elections, vowed to fundamentally change its approach to representing Guyanese, the country’s most important resource.

“The advent of tremendous oil revenues requires a thorough strategic plan and implementation to benefit Guyanese. You can count on us in 2026 and beyond, to be the solid choice for development focused governance,” he said.

However, President Ali reiterated that in 2026, national prosperity would translate more directly into personal and community advancement.

He specifically said Guyanese would earn more and pay less taxes. “We will increase disposable income through direct support, higher wages, and reduced taxation,” he said.

He also restated that government would fast-track housing development by building a nation of homeowners grounded in security and dignity.

Also on the cards is more support for artistic, cultural development.

“Our orange economy will grow as we invest in artists and cultural entrepreneurs—turning creativity into sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

More broadly, the Guyanese leader promised that communities would also benefit from better roads, lighting, playgrounds, and sporting facilities.