Collaboration needed across the board – President Granger
―newly elected Mayors and Deputies sworn in
DPI, Guyana, Monday, December 30, 2019
His Excellency, President David Granger, has called for more collaboration among the levels of government.
He made the charge on Monday following the swearing-in of the mayors and deputy mayors at Ministry of the Presidency.
“The government functions on three levels, national, regional and local. All three levels must collaborate to ensure the efficient delivery of public services to every citizen everywhere in the country. All three levels must be competent to ensure good governance,” he said.
The Head of State noted that the colonial three-county system of Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo depended on appointed “District Commissioners.” The 10 administrative regions replaced that system, with democratically elected Town Councils, Regional Democratic Councils, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Village Councils.
“Municipalities are essential elements of the local government system. Their role has been expanded beyond the mere provision of municipal services. They are now expected to become agents of change, drivers of development and protectors of the environment, in collaboration with central government and the regional democratic councils,” President Granger said.
He noted that the towns were main terminals of trade and seats of public administration and the coalition was working to strengthen the roles of capital towns in regional development through a “Regionalisation Policy”.
He advised that town councils revamp their administrative systems, enabling them to be engines of enterprise, employment, and economic development agents. He added that leaders must collaborate for the common good regardless of their political affiliation.
Referencing the holding of constitutionally due local government elections within four years, the president said these restored and renewed local democracy as he reminded the elected officials of their roles.
“They are required to commit to ensuring the delivery of public services and act within the interest of their constituents. They are required to consult their constituents and citizens in the decision making, processes which are likely to affect their well-being. They are required to conduct their duties, at all times in accordance with the constitution, and the laws of Guyana and remain faithful to their Oath of Office.”
President Granger received a symbolic “Key of the City and Capital Towns” from Linden Mayor Waneka Odetta Arrindell who is the President of the Guyana Association of Municipalities.
Elected are: