NTC Chairman urges Toshaos to put aside political differences

GINA, GUYANA, Thursday, October 20, 2016

The Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Joel Fredericks, is urging all Toshaos to put political differences aside for the development of their communities. Fredericks said one of the main factors hindering the development of many indigenous communities is their different political affiliation.

In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Fredericks said that in every community there are different levels of cohesion. He noted that many people are not open to the possibilities of working together.

“As a leader who is elected to serve your people, you must be open-minded to work with people, work with the government, work with different stakeholders for the development of your community,” Fredericks said.

Fredericks pointed out that the Toshaos need to recognize the importance of the three years they spend as a leader of their community. “If you would only fight and find fault in the three years, at the end, you would not accomplish anything for your people, so I see partnership as important for the development of your community,” he said.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock, since taking up office in May 2016, has also been urging Toshaos to work with residents and develop plans for the development of their communities. Minister Allicock encouraged Toshaos to keep in contact with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affair which stands as the supportive body for development.

 

By: Isaiah Braithwaite