Western diplomats back holding of local govt elections this year

Western diplomats in Guyana said the path is now clear for local government elections to be held in Guyana, with a

parliamentary select committee completing its work on the four bills critical to the process.

In a joint statement, representatives of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union noted that at the start of 2013, political party leaders, civil society, private sector representatives, and members of the diplomatic community all expressed confidence that this would be the year in which Guyana would move forward to ensure that its citizens benefit from strong and effective local governance.

“We are now midway through the year and, with a concerted effort, local government elections and the safer, more prosperous, and more democratic communities they can help build – are within reach.”

According to the diplomats, after months of debate, hard work, and compromise, the parliamentary select committee on local government has forged agreement on the four bills necessary to establish a more modern and effective system of local governance.

“This is a significant and positive step forward. We welcome this action on the part of Guyana’s elected representatives to come together in the national interest,” the statement added.

Constructive progress

The donors said that the path is now clear for approval of these four bills in the National Assembly before the upcoming annual recess. “We encourage all parties, with the support of civil society, to build on the constructive progress and goodwill thus far achieved to complete these vital pieces of legislation in the coming days so that technical preparations for local government elections can begin as soon as possible.

“Building on our established record of constructive engagement and support for effective and responsive democratic institutions, we look forward to supporting the Guyana Elections Commission, the government of Guyana and civil society organisations, as they move forward to prepare for local government elections this year,” the diplomats said.

They added that however, there is much work ahead to boost public knowledge of the local government election process, the role of local government organs, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens and elected officials .

Democracy

Guyana’s constitution states, “Local government is a vital aspect of democracy and shall be organised so as to involve as many people as possible in the task of managing and developing the communities in which they live.”

The diplomats said all of Guyana’s political parties have consistently affirmed their commitment to hold local elections and reinvigorate local government entities.

The Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Guyana Trades Union Congress, and many other stakeholders have likewise raised their voice to reinforce this national consensus.

The envoys noted that this consensus is so broad, because stakeholders recognise that elected local government puts power into the hands of the citizens, giving them a vital framework to participate directly in building their communities. It also makes possible the active civic participation that leads to better services, increased investment, and greater accountability and transparency, all of which contribute to better governance and stronger communities.

The path is now clear for the restoration of effective democratic local governance in 2013. That is good news for the citizens in every community in Guyana, the diplomats said.