Narayan AmmachchiIrfaan Ali has been sworn in for a second term as President of Guyana after winning more votes than his rival, Azruddin Mohamed. The exact margin of victory has not been disclosed.
Mohamed, who operates a gold-exporting company with his father, has long faced U.S. sanctions and corruption charges.
The electoral commission confirmed Ali’s win, calling it a “resounding victory.” His People’s Progressive Party also secured control of Parliament, winning 36 of the 65 seats.
Ali returns to power as Guyana continues to post the world’s fastest economic growth, fueled by massive oil and gas exports. But tensions with Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region remain unresolved.
During his first term, Ali earned praise for using oil wealth to fund social programs. He now promises to accelerate development, expand the economy, and strengthen welfare schemes.
Under his leadership, Guyana has launched major infrastructure projects, including hospitals and highways. Free college tuition is set to begin this month. The government plans to raise the minimum wage, double pensions for seniors to $500, and cut electricity bills by half by next year.
The United States has reiterated its support for Guyana’s sovereignty, particularly over the disputed Essequibo territory.
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