GUYANA | Can the PNCR Win National Elections with Aubrey Norton at the Helm?

Georgetown, Guyana, June 23, 2024 — The People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) Party faces a critical juncture as it prepares for the 22nd Biennial Delegates Congress in Georgetown on June 28. With national and regional elections looming in 2025, the question of leadership looms large over the party.

Many within the PNCR and among political observers argue that the party's current leader, Aubrey Norton, is not equipped to mobilize the broad coalition necessary to unseat the ruling People's Progressive Party (PPP) of Irfaan Ali and Bharrat Jagdeo.

Norton’s tenure has been marked by significant controversies and a leadership style that critics describe as divisive and autocratic. Despite his firm stance and repeated assertions of his capability, Norton has struggled to keep the coalition intact.

While some  PNCR members were happy to see the Alliance for Change go its separate way, there is a considerable percentage of supporters who contend that the split is not in the best interest of the PNCR which needs support from a wide cross section of the Guyanese populace for the PNCR to win in an election.

The  departure of the Alliance For Change (AFC) from the coalition with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), led by the PNCR, exemplifies this fracturing. The AFC's strategic consideration of popular attorney Nigel Hughes for leadership underscores the growing sentiment for change and new alliances within the political landscape.

The PNCR's need for a broad coalition is underscored by Guyana's complex demographic makeup. Predominantly supported by Afro-Guyanese, who constitute about 29.3% of the population, the PNCR faces an uphill battle against the PPP, which enjoys the support of the East Indian population, making up 39.8%.

The mixed-race population, critical to the PNCR’s electoral strategy, comprises approximately 19.9%, while Amerindians make up 10.5%. This demographic reality necessitates a unifying leader who can appeal across ethnic lines and galvanize support from diverse segments of the society.

Internal sentiments within the PNCR reflect a mix of frustration and hope. A senior PNCR supporter, who requested anonymity, expressed concerns about Norton’s ability to unify the party and expand its appeal.

"Unless the PNCR can clean up its leadership issues and effectively market its message to Guyana's mixed-race population, winning the next elections seems an improbable task," the supporter remarked.

This sentiment is echoed by many within the party who fear that alienating any segment of its support base could be detrimental to their electoral prospects.

The leadership race within the PNCR has brought forth strong contenders in the form of Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde and attorney Amanza Walton Desir. Both have gained significant traction and are seen as viable alternatives to Norton.

Pundits have however given the edge to Forde, whom they say undisclosed polls have placed ahead of  the PPP's Irfaan Ali in a straight confrontation.

Their candidacies have infused the party with a sense of renewed vigor and optimism, suggesting that a change in leadership could be the key to revitalizing the PNCR and enhancing its competitiveness in the 2025 elections.

Political analysts argue that Forde and Walton Desir represent a new generation of leadership capable of bridging divides and fostering the coalition needed to challenge the PPP effectively.

But, according to a well known journalist, “Norton seems to be content with remaining a permanent Leader of the Opposition as his attitude will not allow him to step down in the interest of the party.”

He notes that “as a matter of fact, with only days to go before the start of the congress where elections are due to take place, Norton who runs the PNCR with an iron fist, is utilizing a series of underhand strategies to remain in power. He is yet to share the official voters list with his challengers, which may yet blow up in his face.”

However, Norton’s leadership woes are compounded by recent allegations of sexual impropriety, which have only heightened calls for his resignation. These allegations, made by a female party member, have prompted widespread calls for Norton to step aside while investigations are conducted.

The PNCR Elders, in collaboration with the National Congress of Women (NCW) and the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), have emphasized the importance of handling the situation with utmost seriousness and transparency. They argue that the integrity of the party is at stake and that the focus must remain on conducting a successful congress that equips the PNCR for the forthcoming elections.

The PNCR Elders and allied organizations stress the need for unity and strategic focus as the party approaches its crucial congress. They acknowledge that the allegations against Norton pose a significant challenge to the party's cohesion and public image.

However, they urge members to maintain an atmosphere conducive to constructive debate and resolution. "This congress is not just about choosing a leader; it's about setting the strategic direction for our party’s future," the Elders stated in a recent media release. They emphasize that resolving internal conflicts amicably is essential for presenting a united front to the electorate in 2025.

Despite the internal turmoil, there is a clear recognition within the PNCR of the need to focus on broader political objectives. The Elders, alongside the NCW and GYSM, have initiated a thorough inquiry into the allegations against Norton, aiming to uphold justice and transparency.

They call on all party members to support the inquiry process and respect its outcomes. "Our goal is to emerge from this congress stronger and more cohesive," the Elders affirmed. They believe that with the right leadership and a united effort, the PNCR can position itself as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections.

The upcoming congress is seen as a pivotal moment for the PNCR. It is not only an opportunity to address the current leadership concerns but also to chart a course for the party’s future. Many within the party believe that a change in leadership is necessary for the PNCR to regain its footing and appeal to a broader electorate.

The Elders and other senior members underscore the importance of this congress in determining the party's viability as a political force. "The eyes of our supporters and the nation are on us," they noted. "We must rise to the occasion and demonstrate that we are ready to lead Guyana towards a brighter future.

As the inquiry into the allegations against Norton progresses, the PNCR leadership has committed to a process of transparency and accountability. The party Elders assure members that the investigation will be thorough and impartial, with the aim of upholding the PNCR’s values and integrity.

They call for patience and trust in the investigative process, stressing that the truth must prevail for the party to move forward effectively. This commitment to integrity is seen as crucial for restoring confidence within the party and among its supporters.

The path forward for the PNCR hinges on its ability to unite and present a compelling vision for Guyana's future. With the congress set to address both leadership and strategic directions, the stakes are undeniably high.

The Elders emphasize that the party’s success in the 2025 elections will depend on its capacity to resolve internal divisions and focus on the broader goal of national governance. "We must ensure that our internal processes reflect the democratic principles we champion," they stated. "Only then can we inspire confidence in our ability to lead and govern effectively."

In conclusion, the PNCR stands at a crossroads. The decisions made at the upcoming congress will determine the party's trajectory and its ability to challenge the PPP in the 2025 elections.

While the current leadership under Aubrey Norton faces significant challenges, the emergence of new leadership contenders offers a potential path to revitalization and success.

The PNCR’s future depends on its ability to embrace change, foster unity, and present a cohesive, inclusive vision for Guyana.

As the party prepares for this critical juncture, its members and supporters are hopeful that a renewed and unified PNCR will emerge, ready to lead Guyana towards a brighter, more prosperous future.