On the first anniversary of the March 19th, 2001 elections, the prospects for a better future for Guyana have never been as good, according to a statement from the governing People's Progressive Party/Civic.

In the statement the party said that the nation recalls the tremendous disruptions caused by the PNC REFORM (PNC/R) when it took to the streets in the aftermath of the March 19, 2001 General Election as it did in the previous two elections.

The PPP/C said that despite the setbacks and the climate of instability generated by the PNC/R after March 19, 2001, the government still managed to score some significant gains for Guyanese. Such gains, the statement said, included assistance to the victims of the post-elections violence; increases in wages and salaries and hence improved purchasing power; expansion of social services in the areas of health, education, housing and water and other infrastructure which translate into an overall improvement in the quality of life of the Guyanese people.

Regrettably, the party said, there are forces that seem bent on taking the country back on the road to disaster. "They try their level best to sow the seeds of disloyalty and distrust and create disruption, especially on certain television stations."

"The PPP/Civic has proven that it has the will and administrative capacity to move the country forward despite the severe constraints on the domestic front and a less than favourable global economic environment." The statement also said that the party was able, despite a reduced fiscal year, to ensure a growth rate of 1.9% last year, making Guyana one of two countries in CARICOM to experience positive growth.

"We must, however, strive to consolidate and build on the gains achieved. This year's budget by Finance Minister Sasenarine Kowlessar is testimony to the fact that there is no letting up as far as the development momentum is concerned," the statement added.