Dear Editor,
In recent months, Guyana鈥檚 political landscape has experienced a quiet but powerful shift. Several women have broken ranks with the People鈥檚 National Congress (PNC) to chart their own course and establish new political parties. These decisions, while undoubtedly bold and ambitious, are more than mere political maneuvering; they represent a broader assertion of agency, a challenge to entrenched systems, and a message of empowerment to the next generation of women and girls in our nation.
I respect these women for stepping forward. I will always support the drive for greater independence and representation for women in their personal lives, careers, workplaces, and certainly in the halls of political power. Their entry into national politics on their own terms is a significant moment, regardless of the electoral outcomes that may follow. Yet, as we move closer to the 2025 elections, many questions do arise. Chief among them, I believe, is what will it take for these new parties, particularly those led by women, to win a seat in the National Assembly? And, perhaps more provocatively, can they meaningfully outshine long-established political figures such as PNC leader Aubrey Norton and President Ali?
I do not believe these women are seeking to outshine Norton, Ali, or anyone else, per se. I don鈥檛 believe their stepping out is an act of serious rivalry; it is an act of something nonetheless, be it representation, ambition or is it for their political presence to provide a signal to the Guyanese society, especially its women and girls, that leadership is not the exclusive domain of men, nor is it for long-standing political dynasties, I don鈥檛 know for sure but something is being said and moreover it too can be done. But to be frank and honest, symbolism alone does not win elections. The Guyanese electorate is discerning, and the pathway to parliamentary presence, let alone political power, demands more than boldness, ambition, or novelty.
First, these parties must build real political infrastructure. That means to have a constituency presence, trained volunteers, data-driven outreach, and policy teams. Elections are won on the ground, not only on the internet or on talk shows, or sounding and looking nice with a pretty face and fancy clothing.
Second, and perhaps most critically, these leaders must offer the Guyanese people something more superior in its offerings, a coherent, transformative vision. Thus far, beyond the aspirational rhetoric and occasional public gaffes, we have heard too little in terms of substantive policy proposals or a strategic development framework for the country and its people. The ideas that will determine whether we achieve greater progress in education, health, agriculture, housing, technology, and gender equality cannot be afterthoughts buried in manifestos or blueprints released mere weeks before elections. They must be front and center in the political conversation from the outset.
Third, their leadership must feel authentic, not opportunistic. Voters are not just looking for women in power, they are looking for women of principle, women who understand the nuances of governance, and women who demonstrate consistency, depth, courage and a track record of service to people, just as their male counterparts. Finally, alliances will matter. In a political system that has historically been dominated by two major parties, any new entrant, no matter how charismatic they are, must consider coalitions and strategic partnerships. This is not surrender; it is survival and smart politics.
I firmly believe it is highly unlikely that any of these women will emerge as Guyana鈥檚 second female President in the 2025 cycle. But that does not mean their candidacies are without value or historical weight. Quite the opposite. Their participation widens the democratic space, it disrupts old patterns, and opens doors for future generations of girls and women leaders. In that regard, their boldness is a gift to the nation, and I see this as a win for them in this regard. But boldness must be matched by preparation. Inspiration must be paired with perspiration. And ambition must be anchored in vision.
The Guyanese public is watching, and while we are all moved by the symbolism of women stepping forward, we are also growing impatient. We await not only the who of politics but the what, the why, and the how. We await plans, not platitudes; strategies, not slogans. If these emerging parties, some led by women, professing pastors, businessmen, and others, are serious about leading this nation, then they must do more than take the stage. They must seize the moment with substance.
Hon. Jermaine Figueira MP