APNU, AFC, and FGM urge lawmen to vote ‘wisely’

Aug 22, 2025 News

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Kaieteur News – As members of the disciplined forces head to the polls ahead of the upcoming General and Regional Elections, political parties contesting the elections A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the Alliance For Change (AFC), and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) have issued appeals, encouraging voters within the Joint Services to make what they deem the right choice for the future of the nation and their profession.

Former Deputy Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force and APNU representative, Dr. Paul Williams, addressed the members of the disciplined forces during a live broadcast on Thursday. He emphasised the constitutional importance of their vote, stating, “This is an election cycle where you are required to exercise your constitutional right to vote. One vote less or more makes a difference because of the electoral system Guyana has… the polls give you the government of your will.”

Williams reflected on the record of the APNU+AFC government from 2015 to 2020, asserting that under their administration, the Joint Services experienced professionalism and respect. He said that the current administration has driven away many competent officers through acts of nepotism, disrespect, and supersession, leading to a decline in morale and discipline. “Many of your colleagues have left forcefully for several reasons… thanks to those who have remained and give your service to this nation unselfishly,” he said.

Addressing recent promotions within the Joint Services, Williams criticised the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, describing the moves as politically motivated and destabilising. “Some of you were recently promoted in a manner that creates an unstable and unfriendly environment among you and your peers… The PPP/C government has always been in the habit of creating this atmosphere of distrust among Joint Services members,” he asserted, accusing the administration of prioritizing party loyalty over professionalism and competence.

Williams called on the members of the discipline forces to vote wisely, promising that if APNU is elected with Aubrey Compton-Norton as president, the party will restore respect, trust, and proper promotion systems within the services. He also warned members against any illegal acts of voter disclosure, stating, “You are guarantee of a better life, restoring of respect, public trust and your promotion will be honored and you will be trained to perform at the rank trust upon you and not to be demoted, so I implore upon you to vote wisely and privately,” he said.

Williams further added, “You do not have to show anyone who you have voted for, such act is criminal, do not be caught in such act.”

Supporting Williams’ sentiments, former Chief of Staff and Chairman of the Joint Services, Rear Admiral rtd, Gary Best, also urged members of the forces to vote for APNU. He highlighted the financial and social benefits the party promises to deliver. “A vote for APNU is a vote for increased financial resources for you and your family, particularly your children.”

When in danger

Nigel Hughes, leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), also made a strong appeal to the disciplined forces, recognising their role in national security and their daily sacrifices. “You are the ones we call when danger comes… You carry the weight of Guyana on your back but who carries yours?” he asked, criticising politically-influenced promotions and poor salaries. Hughes pledged that under an AFC government, no member of the disciplined services would earn less than $250,000 per month. In addition, if a member falls in the line of duty, their family would receive $10 million.

Hughes outlined further promises including depoliticised promotions, improved training, scholarships, and career advancement opportunities.

As such, he encouraged the servicemen to vote for his party stating, “I’m asking you as a person genuinely committed to building a better Guyana, give me your vote. Give the Alliance for Change your vote on August 22nd because I understand what you’re going through. Because you deserve better, the election is about necessary change. It’s about purpose and this is your moment to help change the course of our country. Better must come and it begins with your vote early, proudly and decisively. Thank you for your service,” he said.
Amanza Walton-Desir, leader of the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), also issued a stirring call to action. Speaking directly to members of the Joint Services, she said, “I respect your uniform, your oath, and your service… The men and women who protect Guyana deserve better. For too long, the system has failed you.” She criticized the culture of corruption, bias, and neglect in the current system, citing politically-driven promotions, poor nutrition for border soldiers, inadequate pay for reservists, and lack of recognition for prison and fire officers.

FGM has published a comprehensive policy agenda targeting the needs of the Joint Services. The party promises a starting salary of $250,000 with transparent pay scales, hardship and hazard allowances, and remote posting benefits. For reservists, compensation will be provided for parade participation, weekend training, and annual camps. Under housing and family support, the FGM pledges expedited house lot allocations, children’s allowances, and low-interest mortgages. Health care reforms include a $20 million life insurance policy for service-related deaths.

Further, FGM promises international training opportunities, post-service career support, entrepreneurial grants, and mechanisms for fair promotions with independent oversight to eliminate political interference. Walton-Desir summarized the vision clearly: “Forward Guyana Movement will ensure fair pay, real benefits, and dignity in service. On Election Day, stand for the uniform, stand for your family, stand for your oath. Vote for real change.”

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• AFC, APNU, Disciplined Forces, Elections, FGM, Vote, wisely

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