Bodybuilding Champion Kerwin Clarke throws support behind President Ali ahead of elections

With General and Regional Elections just around the corner on September 1, Guyanese bodybuilding icon Kerwin Clarke has publicly thrown his support behind President Irfaan Ali, offering a high-profile endorsement that underscores the incumbent’s appeal to diverse segments of the electorate. Clark, a celebrated athlete with a distinguished competitive record, is a five-time Mr Guyana National Champion and multiple gold medallist at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Championships. In June 2022, he earned his professional bodybuilding card after triumphing at the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation, sanctioned Hercules Classic in the United States (US). His competitive success was further highlighted when he captured gold in the light middleweight division at the 46th CAC Championships in 2019.
In announcing his endorsement, Clarke reflected on his personal journey. “I began thinking not just about my personal goals, but about the kind of country that I would like my children and grandchildren to grow up in,” he said. He spoke of a nation where “the economy is stable, education is accessible and free, health care is reliable and entrepreneurship is encouraged. A Guyana where dreams aren’t just possible, but they are supported.” Clark credited President Ali’s leadership for delivering tangible outcomes rather than just lofty promises. “We’ve seen massive infrastructure development, strong bilateral partnerships and a renewed focus on economic growth and stability. Roads, bridges, schools, hospitals. These aren’t just projects, they’re foundations for a better future,” he asserted.
He also praised Ali’s hands-on approach, calling him a leader “who’s everywhere, meeting with communities, listening and acting,” whether on youth employment, education access or innovation in agriculture and technology.
Guyana’s upcoming September 1 elections are being described as the “mother of all elections”, taking place as the country transforms into a petrostate on the back of a booming oil economy. The nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) has expanded from about US$5 billion in 2019 to approximately US$25 billion in 2024.
President Ali, who assumed office in 2020, is seeking a second and final term and his People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is aiming to maintain its slim parliamentary majority. His administration’s record on infrastructure, economic diversification and public services appears to have bolstered support among some voters. Against this backdrop, Clarke emphasised continuity. “I’ve watched Guyana evolve, and I felt proud, knowing that the vision I had for my family’s future is being shaped by someone who genuinely cares about the people,” he said. “Progress deserves continuity… I am proud to endorse President Ali for a second term. Forward together for a better Guyana.”