APNU Supports Development Bank, Warns Against Political Interference

By Mark DaCosta- The proposed Development Bank is facing scrutiny even before it begins processing loans, with the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) warning that weak safeguards, political influence and unclear rules could put public funds and vulnerable borrowers at risk. The coalition supports the bank’s objective of expanding access to financing, but argues that how loans are approved, who controls those decisions and what protections exist against political interference will determine whether the institution becomes a genuine vehicle for inclusive development or another channel through which public resources can be compromised.

A press statement from the coalition on September 25, 2026, brings to light critical concerns regarding the proposed Development Bank. The coalition emphasises the need for coherent governance and transparency to safeguard public resources while promoting economic opportunities for ordinary citizens, especially the vulnerable and under-represented groups.

APNU’s statement articulates a clear dichotomy in the government’s approach: while the objective of aiding citizens’ access to financing is commendable, the means of achieving this are fraught with potential pitfalls. The coalition underscores the necessity of having a governance framework that ensures accountability, independence, and strict adherence to established rules to protect both the public’s money and the citizens it aims to serve.