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WPA to lead protest over Former Presidents’ Benefits Bill
(Kaieteur News) – The Working People’s Alliance (WPA) is urging Guyanese to take to the streets on July 6 in protest against the government’s proposed Former Presidents’ Facilities and Benefits Bill 2026, noting that the legislation places the interests of a few above the needs of ordinary citizens.
The call was issued by WPA Executive Member, Kidackie Amsterdam, who is inviting citizens to gather at Church of God Road in Buxton from 10:00 a.m. or stage peaceful demonstrations in their own communities across the country.
WPA Executive Member, Kidackie Amsterdam
Amsterdam said the proposed legislation, which seeks to provide an expanded package of benefits for former heads-of-state, represents an abuse of the government’s parliamentary majority at a time when many Guyanese are struggling with the rising cost-of-living, unemployment, low wages and inadequate public services.
“This is not about personalities. It is about protecting the public purse. It is about demanding responsible governance,” Amsterdam said in a release to the press on Monday.
According to the WPA executive, while former presidents should be treated with dignity and respect, any benefits provided must be balanced against the country’s financial realities and the needs of taxpayers. He said the bill could significantly increase the State’s financial obligations through expanded provisions for medical care, travel, staffing, accommodation and security.
Amsterdam said the money earmarked for such benefits would be better invested in improving salaries for teachers, nurses, police officers and other public servants, strengthening healthcare, supporting pensioners and persons living with disabilities, upgrading infrastructure and creating more opportunities for young people.
Calling the legislation a matter of misplaced national priorities, Amsterdam urged Guyanese to unite, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion, and peacefully oppose the measure.
“Let us send a clear message that Guyana’s wealth belongs to all Guyanese and should first be used to improve the quality of life of the people,” he said.
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