APNU says $150k cash grant possible for citizens

Dec 06, 2025 News

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(Kaieteur News) – With an estimated 604,000 citizens qualifying by this month for the government promised cash grant, and a total expenditure of $90.6 billion, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has called on the PPP/C government to distribute at least $150,000 to citizens in time for the Christmas season.

The APNU believes that the amount represents a manageable percentage of the total projected government revenues, which proves the feasibility of the proposal.

Lead member in the National Assembly, Dr. Terrence Campbell said the president and his Cabinet have had several public discussions on one-off cash payments and other benefits tied to Guyana’s oil windfall.

“President Irfaan Ali recently told Guyanese that “If you behave yourself, you get it this year,” language that is disrespectful, improper, politically coercive and entirely unacceptable as national social policy,” Dr. Campbell said Friday during a press conference.

Considering the ongoing economic challenges faced by Guyanese, specifically those living in poverty, the APNU is proposing a prompt increase in the cash grant to be distributed to citizens above the age of 18. Campbell said a distribution no less than $150,000 will help to alleviate the financial burdens and to stimulate local economies during the critical holiday season.

The politician highlighted that a Christmas relief to citizens is needed so that persons will be able to cope with rising cost-of-living.

This justification is based on the projected growth in revenue the government has put forward alongside increased population demands and the urgent need of the impoverish populace.

Dr. Campbell reminded that last year, a cash grant of $100,000 was allocated to each citizen age 18 and over to provide financial relief amidst the rising economic challenges. With population growth projected as well and an increase in revenue, he believes it is imperative to reassess the grant amount in order to better meet the needs of citizens.

He reasoned that with current revenue trends which show, “mid-year revenues for 2025 show an increase to $497.3 billion, a 44.7% rise from 2024. The government expects total revenues to reach $1,024.5 billion in 2025, an increase of 30.5% over the $784.6 billion reported in 2024. Given the early startup of the Yellowtail FPSO and the expected rise in oil production, this estimate may be conservatively low.”

The MP reminded the media that the Inter-American Development Bank, said that approximately 58% of Guyanese currently live in poverty.

See document here (https://publications.iadb.org/publications/english/document/Ten-Findings-about-Poverty-in-Latin-America-and-the-Caribbean.pdf).

In this light, the cash grant is necessary for persons struggling with basic needs, as it will provide immediate support and enhance their quality of life. It will also influence the increase of cash flow among citizens which is expected to boost local economies, as the beneficiaries will most likely spend the grant on essential goods and services. Additionally, the infusing on cash has the ability to create the demand in several sectors in turn promoting job creation and economic revitalization.

“The proposed cash grant of a minimum of $150,000 per citizen is not merely an expenditure; it is an investment in the well-being and future of the Guyanese population. By taking into account the current economic climate, projected revenue growth, and the pressing needs of citizens living in poverty, the APNU stands firm in recommending the disbursement of this cash transfer before the Christmas holidays. This initiative will help in alleviating financial strains faced by many families and further contribute to a vibrant and resilient economy in Guyana,” Dr. Campbell said.

APNU is recommending that there be immediate approval for the cash transfer. It is also urging the government to approach parliament and have the process initiated for the approval process for the proposed cash transfer to ensure prompt disbursement.

The party is also calling for government to launch a campaign that will inform citizens about the cash transfer and encourage responsible spending to maximise economic benefits. It believes that there should also be the establishment of a framework to continually assess the impacts of the cash transfer on poverty levels and economic activity, ensuring that future policies are informed and effective.

“This serves as a call to action for all stakeholders in Guyana to unite in support of the citizens and elevate the standard of living through strategic financial interventions. APNU supports intelligently designed and predictable cash transfers that are properly budgeted and clearly communicated. We reject ad-hoc public pronouncements that raise expectations without setting out who qualifies, how and when payments will be made, and funds appropriated.

APNU affirms that Guyanese households must receive the promised cash grant before Christmas. Any delay or confusion arises solely from the PPP/C’s failure to publish eligibility rules, timelines, and proper appropriations,” Dr. Campbell added.

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• APNU, cash grant, Christmas, Parliament, Terrence Campbell

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