Mr. Aubrey Norton has indicated his readiness to run for the leadership of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) again, despite the party’s recent electoral challenges. In a statement made on KAMSTV, a social media platform, he emphasized that the party will ultimately decide its next leader. He expressed his willingness to contribute to the rebuilding process of the party, stating, “I will offer myself as a candidate once I continue to believe that I need to help the rebuilding process. However, if there emerges a candidate that the party is comfortable with, I am prepared to let that candidate emerge.”
While Mr. Norton is open to leading the party, he has ruled out being the presidential candidate for the upcoming elections in Guyana, which are constitutionally due by 2030. He mentioned his commitment to developing a new generation of leaders, particularly youth, to connect with younger voters. “I’m making a public commitment to the people of Guyana. Even if I am leader of the party, I will not be the presidential candidate because I do believe, I genuinely believe that you need a generation that is in touch and can relate to the 35 and under,” he stated.
Mr. Norton justified his decision to retain leadership, citing the need to consolidate the party. He noted that the PNCR’s Congress, originally scheduled for this year, would likely be postponed to 2027 to allow for this consolidation process. Under his leadership, the party has faced significant electoral losses, including in traditional strongholds like Georgetown and Linden.
Despite calls for his resignation from various party members and the public, Mr. Norton believes that stepping down could lead to further issues, similar to those experienced after former leader David Granger’s departure. He has also made changes to the parliamentary team, replacing six of the twelve parliamentarians after the 2025 elections, citing the need for rejuvenation and accessibility to the public.
Among those retained in the parliamentary team are Coretta McDonald and Ganesh Mahipaul, while new members include city businessman Dr. Terrence Campbell and Dr. Dexter Todd. Several prominent parliamentarians have left the party, with some joining other political groups.
Source: demerarawaves.com
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