‘‘Take back your community’’- Min. Hastings-Williams to Port Kaituma residents

DPI, Guyana, Sunday, May 13, 2018

Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams has charged the residents of Port Kaituma, Matarkai sub-District, Region One, to use the upcoming Local Government Elections, to take back their community, from those who seek to deny them their right to development.

She urged, “You put them there, and therefore, they must serve you. You need safe potable drinking water, better education, and better healthcare services and this is what they should be fighting for. If you think they are not working for your interest, you have a right to get them out at the Local Government Elections…You must know your rights!”

This came after residents complained that the Opposition-controlled Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) is sowing seeds of division in the community. Residents said they are being left out of critical decisions and denied the right to use the community centre, and ground, to host events. The council has also refused to update them on community projects that monies were allocated for.

Minister Hastings–Williams reminded that it was the APNU-AFC administration that returned local democracy, thus allowing them to administer their own affairs. She urged them to get affiliated with the process of local government and exercise their right come year end when LGE will be held.

The Minister also took the opportunity to highlight some of the developments over the past three years. Among these was the bridging of the gap between the hinterland and the coastland through the installation of community radio stations in Mabaruma, Lethem, Orealla and Bartica, more than 100 Information Communications and Technology (ICT) hubs installed countrywide, and the upgrades and construction of roads in Mahdia and Mabaruma among other areas.

Minister Hasting-Williams made the remarks at a public meeting at the Port Kaituma Waterfront on Saturday. She was accompanied by Director of Sport, Christopher Jones.

The Public Affairs Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working in the interest of all Guyanese, regardless of their race or political associations.

 

By: Synieka Thorne.

Images courtesy of Anil Seelall.