Oneidge Walrond: ‘Life-changing progress under PPP is no accident’

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, has credited the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) with transforming the lives of thousands of Guyanese through deliberate planning, inclusive policies, and a commitment to building a future where “no one is left behind.”

Speaking at the launch of the PPP’s re-election campaign, Walrond opened her own experience. She noted that in 2020 when she was asked to be a Minister, she was not a party member or a candidate for elections.

“The party opened its doors and welcomed me in because the PPP believes in inclusion,” she stated.

She said President Ali asked her to serve and to contribute meaningfully to the country.

She emphasised that the PPP’s strength comes from embracing all Guyanese, wherever they live.

“We believe the strength of Guyana lies in all its people,” Walrond said.

She said the PPP is everyone – from Region One to Region Ten. She said the party’s guiding principle is that development must be for everyone.

Highlighting the economic transformation of recent years, Walrond described “life-changing progress” under the current administration.

For example, she said the construction of hotels has create 20,000 jobs”.

Further, she said between 2020 and 2025, the government has supported over 17,000 small businesses, and today there are women-led enterprises that have received funding that they could once only dream of.”

From Linden to Lethem and Bartica to Berbice, she said, the successes of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and workers reflect the “beauty and diversity of Guyana.”

Walrond also praised President Irfaan Ali’s leadership: “I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand the heart and mind of President Ali – a leader who is compassionate and wise beyond his years.”

Crucially, she stressed that Guyana’s development was not happening by chance. “Let me be clear: this development cannot and is not happening by accident,” Walrond said. “It is happening because of thoughtful planning, a clear vision, and a government that listens and believes in building a future where no one is left behind.”