President Dr. Irfaan Ali is set to address the National Assembly this Thursday, October 10, at a sitting at 10:00hrs, marking his second address to Parliament since taking office.
The address, confirmed through the official Order Paper for the 86th Sitting of the 12th Parliament of Guyana, also confirms the return of the legislative body after a recess.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, will temporarily suspend the sitting to receive President Ali, who is expected to arrive in full ceremonial style.
A variety of dignitaries are expected to attend, including members of the Joint Services, the Diplomatic Corps, Heads of Governmental Agencies, and representatives from civil society.
While the Parliament or Government have not disclosed specific details regarding the content of President Ali’s address, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo hinted at a major focus on the rising cost of living in the country.
Speaking at a press conference in September, Dr. Jagdeo indicated that President Ali would outline new measures aimed at alleviating the financial burden on Guyanese citizens.
“We have a number of ideas, and the President will speak at the opening of Parliament,” Dr. Jagdeo said, responding to questions about the $7 billion allocated in the 2024 National Budget to address inflation and rising costs.
He said then that while the funds are available within the budget, they have not yet been fully utilised for specific cost-of-living interventions.
In 2022 and 2023, similar efforts saw $5 billion allocated annually to provide relief from the escalating cost of living.
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