Region One residents reminded of responsibility at upcoming LGE
DPI, Guyana, Monday, September 24, 2018
Residents in sections of Region One, Barima-Waini have been encouraged to go out and make their votes count on Local Government Elections (LGE) day, November 12. This call was made by Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings as she conducted a visit to the region.
While the minister’s visit sought to engage residents on the status of health care delivery in specific areas, she was apprised of other issues affecting residents in the community.
Minister Cummings explained that the LGE is the forum where residents can choose representatives to mediate between themselves and central government. She pointed out that the community’s progress and development rests in their hands when they vote at the upcoming local government elections.
“I know local government is coming up and you know all politics is local and you have to ensure that the persons you nominate will have the interest of the community at heart because we definitely want a cleaner environment free of chikungunya and zika and dengue and malaria and other vector-borne diseases.”
She noted that persons nominated must possess attributes which will ensure they function effectively at the local government level.
Minister Cummings, explained to residents, the relevance of LGE.
“You know we have different tiers of government, the NDCs, the local government, then the regional democratic council and then we have the central level. So, persons who have been nominated and win the election will have to work with the NDC and the RDC and also the central government. This person must be people-oriented so they will get things done.”
After 23 years, the APNU+AFC Coalition government reintroduced the Local Government Elections (LGE) to empower people and communities at the grassroots level. The government has committed to hosting these elections at the stipulated period.
The 2018 Local Government Elections will be held on November 12. On behalf of central government, ministers have been reaching out to communities to ensure that residents are sensitised on playing their part in this year’s LGE.
Delicia Haynes.
Images: Anil Seelall.