By Senior Reporter Andrew Weekes- On Monday, July 1st, 2024, at 3 p.m., the sun cast a golden hue over Georgetown as Nigel Hughes, Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) and Presidential hopeful, and his wife Cathy Hughes, MP embarked on a significant walkabout behind the Marriott Hotel and along the Kingston Seawall. Dressed in his vibrant “Better Must Come” jersey and a blue cap, Hughes exuded confidence and approachability as he engaged with the community, also accompanied by Party Chairman David Patterson and a dedicated team.
As the group began their walk, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Residents, eager to hear from the presidential hopeful, gathered in clusters, their faces reflecting a mix of curiosity and hope. Hughes with his charismatic smile and firm handshake, greeting everyone warmly. His presence was a beacon of optimism for many who had felt overlooked by previous administrations.
One of the key messages Hughes emphasised during his walkabout was the importance of ensuring that every eligible voter was registered and ready to vote in the upcoming November 2025 elections. “Please, check and ensure your names are on the voters list,” he urged repeatedly. “Your vote for the AFC is your voice, and every single one counts in shaping a better future for our beloved Guyana.”
However, it was his promise regarding the nation’s newfound oil wealth that truly captured the attention and imagination of the people. “I will ensure that each and every citizen benefits directly from our oil wealth,” Hughes declared passionately. “When elected, I will put five thousand US dollars into your account every year. This is your right, and it is time for you to reap the benefits of our nation’s resources.”
This bold promise was met with a mix of astonishment and excitement. Many began to discuss the potential impact of such a policy on their lives, envisioning a future where they could afford better education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Hughes’s pledge was not just about money; it was about restoring faith in the government’s ability to improve the lives of its citizens.
As Hughes continued along the seawall, he took time to listen to individual concerns, ranging from the need for better infrastructure to more robust security measures. Each conversation reinforced his commitment to a governance style grounded in listening and responding to the needs of the people.
David Patterson, the Party Chairman, and Vice-Chairman Michael Carrington stood by Hughes’ side, offering additional insights and supporting the leader’s vision. Patterson & Carrington’s presence underscored the unity and collective determination within the AFC to bring about meaningful change.
The walkabout concluded, where Hughes addressed his team saying, “Together, we can build a Guyana where everyone prospers. Let’s take this journey hand in hand, with hope in our hearts and a clear vision for a brighter future.”
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the seawall, Nigel Hughes and his team departed, leaving behind a community inspired and eager for change. His walkabout behind the Marriott Hotel and along the Kingston Seawall was more than a campaign event; it was a promise of a new era for Guyana—one where every citizen could share in the nation’s wealth and have a voice in its future. The team will conduct more walkabouts in communities across the country.