Unopposed for leadership,
spared no criticism in condemning the current administration’s priorities. “Child poverty and food insecurity continue to haunt our streets, starkly contrasting with the glittering infrastructure projects lining our roads,” he lamented, drawing attention to the paradox of progress marred by social neglect.
Drawing on global parallels, Norton drew a cautionary comparison with nations like Equatorial Guinea, where economic mismanagement resulted in dire social crises. He underscored declining sectors such as gold and sugar production under the current regime, linking these to broader economic challenges and foreign exchange crises. Norton’s accusations of incompetence and corruption were met with fervent nods from the assembly, reflecting shared concerns over transparency in economic reporting and unaddressed unemployment rates.
The urgency for change permeated Norton’s address as he rallied support for national unity in the face of external threats, particularly from neighbouring Venezuela. His call for a robust foreign policy stance and underscored the party’s resolve to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity and economic interests.
Closing with a call to action, Norton rallied delegates and the nation around the theme of “Forming the next government: building a just, inclusive, and prosperous society for all.” Specific policy initiatives aimed at poverty reduction, economic growth, and national security framed his vision for a future led by the PNCR, punctuating a charged session that set the stage for deliberations ahead.
PNCR Chairman Shurwayne Holder reflected on the party’s storied history and ambitious future, marking the Congress’s theme, “Forming the Next Government, Building a Just, Inclusive, and Prosperous Society for All.” With a nod to the party’s foundational milestones and recent resurgence in grassroots engagement, Holder set an optimistic tone for the days ahead, urging unity and strategic focus in charting the party’s course towards national leadership.
As the 32nd Biennial Congress unfolds over the weekend, delegates will delve into critical discussions on human development, economic policy, resource management, and governance strategies.
There were some bizarre moments during the congress opening with a woman seemingly possessed rolling on the floor just in front of the podium. There were initial attempts to restrain her but these petered out.
In recent weeks, the PNCR has reeled from a series of setbacks. A Partnership for National Unity – the coalition that the PNCR had helped form – announced that it had elected new office bearers in the absence of the PNCR. This was rejected by Norton.
Days later, Norton was faced with accusations of sexual harassment by party member Vanessa Kissoon which he strenuously denied. This matter is being examined by party elders. In the interim charges and counter charges flowed among party members leading to acrimony on social media.
On June 24, just days before the congress was to start, party General Secretary Dawn HastingsWilliams resigned with immediate effect citing dissatisfaction with arrangements for the congress, financial matters and humiliating incidents.
In her resignation letter seen by
Stabroek New Williams recount problems to Norto
She said she d congress could be one month for members of the complained about
“With all the ad that has to be un secretariat, I beli month period for such a congress c sion rather than h transparent proce am quite sure th members of the Executive Comm with me that whe over it must conc light”, Hastings-W
She also addre over membership humiliations she h
“…ever since m