Gov’t will not approve any revaluation of land – Jagdeo

The current People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration will not support or greenlight any land revaluation exercises, according to Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

The Vice President addressed statements made recently by City Mayor Alfred Mentore during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown.

It was recently reported that Mr. Mentore is keen on engaging the Ministry of Finance to explore the valuation and revaluation of properties in Georgetown. Jagdeo said the government is against this.

“Why would you want to do a revaluation of properties in Georgetown, in this year?

“We have made it very clear that there will be no revaluation of any property which means higher taxes for people in Georgetown or any other part of the country,” Jagdeo emphasised.

He later added, “If they approach the Ministry of Finance for that, the answer will be no.”

Jagdeo opined that such efforts are being pursued as Guyana is gearing up for General and Regional Elections this year, and the APNU-controlled City Council is trying to stir up “dissatisfaction” and “unease” among citizens.

Beyond property valuation exercises, the Vice President spoke out against what he believes are moves to increase other rates and taxes. Religious groups, he said, are being saddled with substantial tax increases while Mr. Mentore’s party, the People’s National Congress (PNC), is seemingly getting away with its more than $6 billion tax debt.

Jagdeo also flagged Mr. Mentore’s intentions to engage people directly on taxes owed.

“That is a recipe for corruption,” he contended, noting that taxpayers could negotiate deals with the City Council through this private engagement.

“I would urge citizens to not go in there and negotiate any payments with the Mayor or any of his officers.”