NDC officials charged to effect change in their communities
─ Min. Bulkan gives full support
─ reiterates that govt has no intention to dictate the workings of NDCs
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons from Regions 1, 4, 9 and 10 took their oath of office this afternoon in the presence of the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) members and other supporters.
The returning and new NDC officials were urged to take their work seriously, understanding that their duty is to the people who elected them to office.
Speaking directly to the 34 men and women, Minister Bulkan urged them to stay clear of political partisanship.
“Power comes from the people, you must be the servant to them,” he said.
The minister said the government has no intention to dictate the workings of the NDCs, stating that this is evident in the fact the present administration has ensured that local government election was held when it was constitutionally due.
Minister Bulkan also assured the NDCs that they have his, and the government’s, full support in the development of their respective communities, reminding them that they are now semi-autonomous.
“I remind you that our ministry provided two volumes of a handbook with the necessary information from Chapter 28:01, 28:02 and 28:09 of the laws of Guyana which will answer most, if not all, of your issues should you have any.”
In the meantime, during her welcome remarks, Regional Chairperson for Region Four, Genevieve Allen, says she was particularly proud that more young people and women were participating at the regional levels.
“Significant to note was the participation of young people and our women presenting themselves as candidates and further being elected as councillors.”
Felecia Valenzuela.
Images: Tejpaul Bridgemohan.