Walton-Desir breaks down over being sidelined by PNC/R; launches new political party

Attorney-at-law and former Member of Parliament, Amanza Walton-Desir, shed visible tears on Wednesday morning as she publicly announced her resignation from the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), citing being sidelined, undervalued, and silenced within the party’s leadership structure.

In an emotionally charged press conference, Walton-Desir said the decision—though agonising—was taken after “much soul searching, prayer, and counsel from trusted family and friends.” Her resignation, she confirmed, was submitted with immediate effect to PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton on Tuesday, June 18, along with a letter to List Representative David Granger.

But what came next marked a new turn in her political journey: the announcement of a new political movement—Forward Guyana—which she said is founded on values, clarity, and conviction.

“This is not about leaving. It is about stepping into two powerful ideas: new leadership and new energy,” she declared, her voice cracking as she wiped away tears.

“I could not remain where my contributions are undervalued and my voice is silenced,” she said. “There was no sufficient clarity on the way forward for the PNCR as it is currently constituted.”

Walton-Desir used the platform to clarify several issues regarding her position within the PNCR and address statements made by the party. Responding to claims that she had been promised a parliamentary seat in the next Parliament, she bluntly stated, “I was not offered any position.”

She also responded to questions about whether she had expressed interest in being the Prime Ministerial candidate or had made any personal requests for higher office. “It is not my place to request that my party provides me with a position,” she said.

“I believe leaders should harness the talents of those around them. I did not ask—but I did seek clarity, and I did not get it.”

While Forward Guyana is still formalising its structure and preparing for possible participation in the upcoming general elections, Walton-Desir made it clear that the movement is open to collaboration—but not for “coalition’s sake.”

“Collaboration must be based on shared values, coherent policies and a common vision,” she emphasised, when asked whether she had been approached by other political players, including Team Mohamed.

“A number of existing parties have expressed interest in collaboration. I have not been approached by Team Mohamed, and I do not know Mr. Mohamed—I’ve only met him once. I am not aware of what his values are or where he sees the country going.”

In her near 15-minute-long statement, Walton-Desir spoke directly to Guyanese who feel left behind, unheard, and disillusioned by both major parties: “If you’ve ever felt unseen, unheard, or unrepresented—this is your moment. If you’ve ever wondered whether politics can be different—this is your movement.”

“We can no longer build the future on loyalty to the past. We must build it on courage, honesty, and a shared determination to do better—and to do it together.”

Her voice trembled as she invoked the “unjust” death of young Adriana Younge and lamented that despite the presence of good people in the opposition, “we have not been able to effectively check the current government.”

She promised that Forward Guyana will fight for the poor, the single mother, the frustrated youth, the underpaid teacher, the nurse, the doctor, and the struggling businessperson.

Walton-Desir acknowledged that many Guyanese are sceptical of new movements, citing previous disappointments and betrayals. But she warned against giving in to cynicism or fear.

“Change is not betrayal. Sometimes it is a duty. To surrender to fear is unacceptable.”

While she did not confirm whether Forward Guyana will contest the next election independently or as part of a broader coalition, Walton-Desir made one thing clear: she’s not retreating from the national stage.

“We are serious about this,” she said firmly. “This is an audacious time, and it requires audacious action.”