Dear Editor,
The message emanating from the just concluded Local Government Elections is simple and clear: The PNC has fallen from its commanding heights of Party Paramountcy in the mid-70s to a feeble collection of uninspiring candidates and clueless leaders, with the ship’s captain sailing without a compass.
The results of the elections are a clear indication of the existing political strengths and weaknesses, as the PPP juggernaut stands out as a well-oiled election machinery with matchless personnel and finance that reaches across the length and breadth of Guyana, notwithstanding the usual comingling of state and Party resources in the campaign (which the previous regime also utilised).
As expected, the PNC retained control of the capital; however, the PPP has made a noticeable dent in increasing its composition of councillors. The PNC could not field any candidate in 291 constituencies, and turnouts were low in proven PPP fortresses, which indicates that there are many in the party’s camp who are dissatisfied, unmotivated, and uninspired.
In the long run, Guyanese are expecting better administrative systems, given the abundance of resources from our newfound oil wealth. Leaders at all levels (local, regional and national) are expected to work together for the betterment of our citizens, as they have been chosen to do exactly this; their raison d’etre for being public servants.
For far too long, we have heard the cries of central Government not fully supporting local and regional leaders who do not belong to the same political mindset. Such pitfalls must end, and the way must be paved for increased collaboration between local leaders and the Government, and people must be able to hold their leaders accountable. If there is anything that is not being adequately addressed, do not be afraid to ask direct questions; reach out to those in higher authority, and highlight all discrepancies in the media.
The fact that no results have been disclosed after more than 48 hours of closing of polls clearly signals that GECOM needs to improve its modus operandi and act with some form of alacrity. There is need for much improvement. At the time of writing, the incumbent Government and its political party have gathered huge gains in traditionally supported Opposition areas. Sixty-six (66) of the LAAs, appear to have been won by the PPP/C, while PNC (APNU), in its defense, has stated that its objectives for LGE 2023 have been met, and that it has also won, even though it lost 9 LAAs and two townships from the last elections.
Finally, ‘Garbage City’ needs to be restored to its pre-Independence glory to earn the given name ‘The Garden City’. Under the 23-year (PNC strongman) Green mayorship, Georgetown became brown with filth from an array of animals; the only green could be found in the hanging gardens of the gutters in his office building.
City Hall needs to act decisively, and with a semblance of alacrity, to rid the streets of garbage, clumsy parking, and potholes.
The present Gov’t must be mature enough to fund the maintenance of the infrastructure, while businesses and homeowners must be compelled to pay their taxes in a prompt manner. Only through good administration can the country flourish with the accurate choice of professionals, regardless of race or party lineage.
Hopefully, this is realised, as the people have made their choices in these elections.
Sincerely,
Leyland Roopnaraine
