Prime Minister promises transparency and wider public engagement

Prime Minister Mark Phillips has defended the government’s development agenda, saying the administration has a clear mandate to transform lives and will continue to pursue its programmes while keeping the public fully informed at every stage.

Speaking on the ‘Starting Point’ podcast, the Prime Minister said while citizens have an unquestionable right to speak freely and raise concerns, the government remains focused on delivering services and improving the quality of life across all sectors.

“We have a mandate,” Phillips said, stressing that the government’s programmes are designed to be transformative and inclusive. He noted that development cannot be pursued in isolation and that projects across infrastructure, social services and economic growth are being implemented as part of a coordinated national plan.

The Prime Minister also addressed public concerns about transparency, emphasising that the administration is committed to clear and consistent communication. He said citizens are being informed about every major project, including timelines, costs and expected completion dates.

“If it’s a bridge, we tell you when it starts, when it’s expected to be completed and what it will cost,” Phillips said, adding that misinformation often creates unnecessary anxiety and resistance to projects that are intended to benefit communities.

Touching on public participation, Phillips rejected claims that citizens are afraid to share ideas for fear of political labelling or appropriation. He said the government remains open to ideas at all times, noting that proposals not included in one budget cycle can still inform future national budgets.

“We will continue to listen to the people,” he said, cautioning against allowing misinformation to divide citizens or undermine constructive dialogue.

The Prime Minister also spoke briefly about the country’s major development projects, including the gas-to-energy initiative. He explained that while the first phase is expected to come on stream later this year, the second phase will play an even stronger role in shaping Guyana’s long-term development trajectory.

According to Phillips, the project is central to reducing energy costs, boosting industrial growth and supporting wider economic expansion, positioning Guyana for sustained development in the years ahead.