By Radha Motielall | January 3, 2025
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is commemorating its 75th anniversary, reflecting on its long history of advocating for freedom and democracy in Guyana.
Since its formation on January 1, 1950, the party has been at the forefront of political struggles, from the fight for independence to securing free and fair elections.
According to the PPP’s General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the party was founded with the primary objective of securing national liberation from colonial rule and ensuring that Guyanese citizens had the right to elect a government of their choice.
The early years of the party were marked by intense political activism, as it played a central role in Guyana’s eventual independence from British rule in 1966.
Following independence, the PPP spent the next 28 years advocating for electoral transparency in what was described as a period of political repression and limited democratic freedoms.
The fight for free and fair elections remained a cornerstone of the party’s efforts during this time.
Dr. Jagdeo also highlighted more recent political challenges, including the events surrounding the 2020 general and regional elections, which he described as another critical moment in the party’s continued struggle to safeguard democracy.
Even while in government, he noted, the PPP has had to remain vigilant against efforts to undermine democratic principles.
As Guyana prepares for another election cycle later this year, concerns over the accuracy of the voters’ list have resurfaced.
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has outlined measures to ensure the removal of deceased individuals from the list through its ongoing voter registration and verification process.