As the 1 September General and Regional Elections draw closer, Ganesh Mahipaul of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has dismissed concerns that the newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, led by US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, could threaten the coalition’s chances at the polls.
Speaking with reporters, Mahipaul acknowledged growing public discussion around Mohamed’s perceived popularity and the possibility that the WIN party could split the opposition vote.
However, he maintained that APNU remains confident in its support base and organisational strength, pointing out that its membership has grown from five parties to seven, which is a testimony to its strength.
He further pointed out that the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), the largest party in the coalition, has also seen remarkable growth, moving from 18,000 members in 2020 to 23,000 today.
Regarding Mohamed’s new political venture, Mahipaul suggested that the WIN party emerged from personal disagreements rather than genuine political ideals.
“His entrance into politics came about because he fell out with [former associates],” he said, pointing out that friends who fall out can become friends again.
Mahipaul also cautioned voters to reflect carefully on whether they want to risk dividing the opposition vote.
“People must ask themselves are they prepared to take another risk like that. What the country needs is that change, where putting people first is top of the agenda,” he added.
Despite the rise of new political players, Mahipaul reiterated that APNU is focused on uniting its support base and delivering the change Guyanese want.
