Opposition MP commends LGE process
DPI, Guyana, Monday, November 12, 2018
Member of Parliament and representative of the People Progressive Party (PPP), Harry Gill today commended the voting process for Local Government Elections, 2018, in Region Five, West Coast Berbice, as being simple and happening in an atmosphere of peace.
The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with Gill at the Sharon Moravian Church in Number Nine Village. Gill also said the turnout of voters remained steady.
Residents and political operatives in West Coast Berbice today voted in the second consecutive Local Government Elections since the change of government in May 2015.
Polling stations across the region were opened at 6 a.m., as constitutionally required, and voting proceeded smoothly. DPI visited several Local Authority Areas (LAAs) and spoke with residents and representatives of contesting groups and political parties.
Across the region residents including 71-year-old Drupat Daloo who voted at the Cotton Tree Primary School in Cotton Tree East, Zeelust/Rosignol Neighbour Democratic Council (NDC), were seen braving the sun to get out and vote. Many the election as critical to ensuring that their LAAs are managed by individuals or groups who will ensure the provision of adequate services and development for their communities.
DPI caught up with the first voter Ramnares Rupsingh, as polls opened at the Novar Nursery School. He said the process was simple and he was satisfied with the ease with which it took place.
Meanwhile Bonita Wilson voted at the Weldaad Magistrate’s Court and also expressed satisfaction with the process. Wilson said she said she came out early to avoid the crowd, later in the day.
Simonica London, a representative on the APNU list in her area was at the Sharon Moravian Church. According to her, she expects a higher than 50 percent turnout at the polls and victory for her list of candidates.
Meanwhile, Harish Ramnarace a first-time voter cast his ballot at the Bath Primary School and felt great voting for the first time. Harish said it’s important to vote because “one vote can make a difference.”
Parmanand Boodhoo, who also voted at the Bath Primary School said the voting process was simple and encouraged everyone to exercise their franchise.
Over at Rosignol Secondary School, Mary Milne who voted in her second consecutive LGE election opined that her vote is vital to ensuring a change in her LAA. Mary says the incumbent council is unfair and she looks forward to a positive change at the close of polls.
Michael Mahadeo also voted in the second consecutive LGE held under the APNU+AFC administration. DPI caught up with him at Waterloo Nursery School Constituency #Seven Bath/ Woodley Park NDC. Mahadeo says voting for him is important to see changes in the management of his community.
Kidackie Amsterdam.
Images: Giovanni Gajie.