Misleading reporting on cash grant distribution

Dear Editor,
I watched the Thursday November 28 press conference hosted by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo as I do every week, so when I saw a news article making the rounds on social media, I couldn’t help but write this missive to educate my Guyanese people.
The article in question is titled “VP Jagdeo Confirms Not Everyone Will Get Cash Grant Before Christmas”, and though it provides some context, the headline is deliberately negative and fails to reflect the full scope of the Vice President’s explanation.
In the penultimate paragraph of the article, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is quoted as saying: “We cannot appropriate the balance of the money until you have a budget. So, the budget will hopefully be passed by February of next year and then we can seek to appropriate the balance of the money. We anticipate that it will be about another $30B because we think about 600,000 adults in the country or just over that, but we will appropriate the rest of the sum in that period.”
This is an important recognition that funds cannot be spent without parliamentary approval — a clear demonstration of adherence to proper governance and fiscal responsibility. In my view, the Vice President is underscoring that while the Government has made strides in distributing the first portion of the cash grant, the remainder cannot be done without parliamentary approval. This procedural clarity should be acknowledged as a mark of good governance, rather than be framed negatively.
However, the headline appears crafted to provoke criticism and dissatisfaction –ignoring the Government’s demonstrated commitment to following parliamentary protocols.
Yes, the statement confirms that not every recipient would receive their grant before Christmas, but it also clarifies why: the process is bound by the principles of parliamentary approval, not by any lack of intent or effort on the part of Government.
It is disappointing to see such a misleading headline, which detracts from the Vice President’s clear and transparent communication. While constructive criticism of governance is always welcome, it must be rooted in fair reporting: that informs, rather than inflames. I urge media houses to approach such issues with greater responsibility, ensuring that headlines reflect the facts of the matter, rather than seeking to sensationalize them.
The citizens of this country deserve balanced reporting, which encourages informed discussions rather than mistrust.

Sincerely,
BRIAN AZORE