‘Two-faced’ governance versus ‘transformational progress’: Minister Persaud and Singh-Lewis clash over budget

We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) MP Natasha Singh-Lewis and Minister of Human Services Dr. Vindhya Persaud yesterday presented opposing realities of life in Guyana as they made their contributions to the 2026 budget debate. The National Assembly House heard accusations of “two-faced” governance countered by declarations of “transformational” progress.

Singh-Lewis opened her presentation with a critique of the $1.558 trillion budget, labeling the theme of “putting people first” a “farce.” Citing an IDB report suggesting 58% of the population lives in poverty, Lewis argued that the budget prioritizes “the haves”, such as vehicle owners and agro-processors, while neglecting the “have-nots.”

Singh-Lewis launched a scathing critique of the Finance Minister, characterizing his conduct as a study in hypocrisy. She contrasted his public calls for a “humane society”—which she termed his “sermon”—with what she described as “wanton abuse” and “gutter” tactics directed at Opposition members. According to Singh-Lewis, the Minister’s personal attacks on his colleagues fundamentally undermined the moral authority of his policy presentations.

Turning to systemic issues within social services, she highlighted a tragic incident at the Palms Geriatric Home to illustrate what she calls gross negligence. She said that the facility’s infrastructure has been so poorly maintained that 78-year-old David Trahaine died after falling through a neglected floor. This catalyzed her broader critique of the Ministry of Human Services, which she said is currently defined by incompetence. Singh-Lewis asserted that seasoned technical staff are resigning in significant numbers, replaced by a “parallel public service” consisting of nearly 500 contracted employees.