Govt should be managing the city; it is time for a change!

Dear Editor,
Kindly permit me an opportunity to respond to a letter published on August 11, 2024 under the caption “President could achieve more for city by collaborating with council.”
I wish to start by clarifying that President Dr Irfaan Ali has demonstrated leadership that none has ever dreamed of. His on-the-ground approach has shifted the mindset that being a president is merely ceremonial. This attitude is transferred to all cabinet members, and by extension to the country, promoting the belief that hard work equates to success.
The M&CC has sole responsibility for managing the affairs of the markets, as cleansing fees and stall rents are collected regularly. Like any owner-tenant agreement, certain services are expected, with security being a top priority.
However, the provision of security in the markets by the M&CC is grossly inadequate. This is evident in the many break-and-enter reports tabled at the Council’s Legal Affairs and Security Committee meetings, which are often chaired by Mr. Saul, as well as by reports in the widely circulated newspapers. As a result, the Guyana Police Force has signalled its intention to assist the City Constabulary in securing the markets. Even stall owners have expressed their willingness to hire private security, but under the stewardship of Mayor Mentore, the M&CC has not taken action, and has instead procrastinated, as it does with many other issues.
It is clear that Guyana’s recent crime wave has decreased for several simple but significant reasons: more job opportunities, community-building efforts by the Guyana Police Force, increased disposable income, higher salaries; and, most importantly, the hope and faith reinstated by the Government’s programmes and policies.
This Government is not known for hiding from realities and responsibilities; rather, it confronts issues head-on and seeks solutions. Stricter measures are being implemented to curb any chance of corruption, unlike what Mr. Saul’s party is known for — “shifting blame.”
As Chairman of the Finance Committee, Mr. Saul should be ashamed to mention the responsibilities of the M&CC, as none is being fulfilled, and all are instead being shouldered by the Government.
Although you may continue to hear cries for financial assistance from the Government under the Fiscal Transfer Act, it is sad to say the M&CC doesn’t qualify to receive it, because it has not audited its finances for the last six years. However, audits have started this year, due to the strong advocacy of PPP/C Councillors. It’s not rocket science to raise awareness among defaulting ratepayers to pay their taxes. We have demand notices that can be sent out, and we have social media, newspapers, etc; more importantly, Chapter 28:01 guides the Council on the steps to be taken in the case of default ratepayers. But it’s the will to change and improve that is often lacking. Sometimes, as a Councillor, I feel it’s sabotage to blame the Government for the current state of the M&CC, especially since they had the opportunity to fix issues during 2015-2020 but neglected to do so.
The M&CC currently owes the Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Power and Light, and Guyana Water Inc., all of which are government agencies. Therefore, the figures would essentially offset the other, making it clear that Mr. Saul is being duplicitous in painting a misleading narrative. As the Finance Chair, he should be more concerned about deducting PAYE from M&CC staff but not remitting same to the Guyana Revenue Authority, which is a criminal act.
It must be noted that, before the placement of a police outpost at the Bourda Market, the M&CC was consulted via the Clerk of Markets, Chief Constable, market vendors, and the Town Clerk to ascertain the most efficient and strategic area.
Waste disposal practices lie solely with the M&CC. It is the Council’s job to inform generators of expected practices when disposing of their garbage, advising businesses of the Council’s standards by equipping themselves with receptacles, studying the specific needs based on the status quo, and enforcing littering bylaws in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force. Engaging the business community to assist in constant public awareness by forming an alliance is essential, but none of this is being done due to a lack of will; there is more talk than action.
When will the APNU-led Council take responsibility for the city? It seems all too easy to blame the Government or call for collaboration on every single issue. What capabilities do the M&CC actually possess? It is clear that the government of the day should be managing the city; it is time for a change!

Regards,
Steven Jacobs
Councillor – M&CC