At just 24 years old, Denzel Carlisle St Hill has navigated the tumultuous waters of Guyanese politics with a blend of determination and adaptability.
His political journey began in Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, where he was raised in a household deeply entrenched in the People’s National Congress (PNC) ethos.
Growing up, Denzel was immersed in the nuances of local politics, a backdrop that sparked his passion for community development and youth empowerment.
This early exposure naturally propelled him into leadership roles. His initial foray into politics saw him joining the PNC as an independent councillor, driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to his community.
However, his tenure with the PNC soon revealed a disconnect between his ideals and the party’s internal dynamics.
Seeking a new direction, Denzel aligned himself with the Movement for Unity and Democracy (MUD), a party led by the outspoken and charismatic Keron Bruce.
The MUD, which boasted over 400 members and was positioned as a youth-centric movement with progressive policies, initially seemed like the right fit.
Yet, Denzel’s hopes were soon dashed. Just two weeks ago, he made the bold decision to resign from the MUD, citing a misalignment with his values and the party’s direction.
“There were some political issues that I didn’t want to be a part of, so I decided to resign as a PNC councillor. I have an independent view and I want to see what’s best for my community, best for the people I serve, and Guyanese at large. Certain elements didn’t want that and I realized I couldn’t be a part of it, so I resigned,” St Hill reflected in an interview at the News Room on Wednesday.
Denzel’s brief but intense experience with MUD revealed a troubling pattern. Despite the party’s stated mission to aid and uplift, he observed what he perceived as contradictory actions.
“I felt like if I was going to continue with it, I was supporting all that he was doing. It went against my values and what I stand for. The movement was created to help people … but then with one hand you’re helping, and then with one hand you’re taking away; fixing and attacking, fixing and attacking. And it was very confusing,” he explained.
This period of introspection and disillusionment led Denzel to reconsider his political affiliations.
His participation in the International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP) last July, organized by the US Department of State, provided him with broader perspectives and reinforced his resolve to pursue his political aspirations with clarity and purpose.
Now, Denzel is setting his sights on the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), a political organization he has always felt a deep connection to.
“The PPP was actually my first choice but the APNU swooped in and copped me. I have started the process to membership with the PPP. The PPP administration is looking for results and my track record is there to show,” he said, outlining his renewed commitment.
For Denzel, joining the PPP is not just a strategic maneuver but a return to a political home where his values align with the party’s vision. As he embarks on this new chapter, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to community service and empowerment.
