“Onward, upward together” – Pres Ali hails progress, unity plans for Guyana in 2026 New Year’s address .

..let 2026 strengthen, renew commitment to build a just, secure & united Guyana – PM Phillips

President Dr Irfaan Ali in his New Year message to the nation reflected on Guyana’s transformational progress and looked toward a prosperous future for all Guyanese as he hailed national development, prosperity and unity.
“As the first light of 2026 rises over our rivers and plains, I invite you to pause, just for a moment, and reflect on how far we have come. Guyana’s story is no longer written in the language of potential alone. It is now written in the language of progress made real of opportunity seized, of a nation stepping confidently into its moment. We are not merely turning a page; we are writing a new chapter in our history. And its opening lines are bold,” he declared.
The President noted that despite global uncertainty and the Essequibo situation over the year, Guyanese remained united as the economy, their daily lives and future security improved with the development of education and healthcare; increased incomes and opportunities, and safer streets.
He underscored that the 2025 opening of the modern Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge “is a symbol of this new Guyana. It is a symbol of the transformation that is taking place,” adding that the year’s regional and general elections reaffirmed the will of the people for the government’s mandate “to continue the work of inclusive growth, shared prosperity, national transformation, and unity.”
Looking into the new year, President Ali expressed confidence in continuing economic growth but emphasised that it will lead to a focus on personal and community improvements, with increased disposable income, more housing development, and better infrastructure among other developments – many already in place.
“In 2026, we anticipate continued strong economic growth, but our focus is deeper than numbers…This year, national prosperity will translate more directly into personal and community advancement,” he stated.
The Guyanese leader also focused on young people, expressing his commitment to ensuring they play a vital role in Guyana’s future.
In a more personal commitment, the President made a pledge to all Guyanese “to govern with integrity, discipline, and compassion. To listen before I decide, to act with fairness, and to place the national interest above all else. I pledge to guard our resources carefully, to expand opportunity relentlessly, and to ensure that development reaches every region and every community. I pledge to defend our sovereignty, protect our people, and uphold the peaceful resolution of all matters in accordance with international law while working every day to unite, not divide, our nation. I will hold myself to that pledge, as my commitment to you, the beautiful people of Guyana,” he said.
He made it clear that while Guyana is developing, the country will remain alert and aware of the tensions and issues going on globally.
“As we move forward, optimism must be matched with vigilance. The world remains unsettled, and tensions beyond our borders can test even strong nations. We will therefore remain prudent, prepared, and alert, protecting our homeland, supporting our security services, and preserving peace through diplomacy, readiness, partnership with our allies and national unity,” he added.
He however assured that Guyanese have the strength and will to move forward into their future, urging them to look toward a progressive 2026.
“With faith in each other and confidence in our direction, there is no summit beyond our reach.
Onward, upward—together to a brighter, stronger, and more prosperous 2026,” he urged.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, in his New Year message, called for a collective renewal of commitment to foster national unity and prosperity. He said that as one year closes and another begins, this presents the opportunity to reflect and take stock of the year that has passed.
According to the Prime Minister, the arrival of the New Year symbolises renewal and invites resolve and responsibility.
“As with all countries and in every individual’s life, the year behind us tested us in different ways, demanding resilience and maturity as a nation. Yet, through challenges both seen and unseen, Guyana continued to move forward – our people continued to move forward.”
PM Phillips noted that across Guyana, progress has taken many forms, with roads built, schools strengthened, healthcare expanded, and communities supported – an achievement driven by workers who showed up every day, families who believed in education and discipline, entrepreneurs who invested locally and citizens who understood that nation-building is a shared responsibility.
In the same breath, he also acknowledged that growth does not erase hardship, as global uncertainty and social pressures affected many households. But despite all this, Phillips reminded that progress is measured by how well the Government protect and took care of citizens during moments of strain.
“This understanding will continue to guide our priorities,” the Prime Minister said, adding that while economic growth created new possibilities, it also placed a clear obligation – to continue managing the country’s resources wisely and to ensure that development serves every Guyanese today and in generations to come.
“As we enter the New Year, we aim to deepen the gains we have made, to correct where we must, and to remain anchored in the values that define us: fairness, unity, and respect. The future of Guyana rests in our people and our willingness to work together, to hold each other accountable, and to believe that progress must include everyone.”
“So, may this New Year be one of purpose and a year marked by discipline, compassion, and national pride. Let us face the months ahead with confidence, grounded in what we have overcome and focused on what still lies before us. On behalf of the Government of Guyana, I extend best wishes for a New Year filled with health, stability, and opportunity. May 2026 strengthen our resolve and renew our commitment to building a Guyana that is just, secure, and united. Happy New Year, and may God continue to bless our nation,” PM Phillips stated.