Dear Editor
The truth is that the inability of the people to choose their representatives at the local government level for the past twenty-one years has left us ill-informed about the process and how important it is.
As we fast approach March 18th the local government elections are still viewed by most as a relatively new phenomenon. One would however expect those contesting to be knowledgeable about the process and to educate the electorate on the system and the importance of them getting involved. Sadly, Mr Benschop and team appear to be on a mission to ensure that the residents of Georgetown remain ignorant of the true structure of the local government system. The Youth for Local Government has noticed while conducting our door to door rounds, that quite a few persons are not aware of the term ‘councillors’ and moreso the role of a councillor in their constituency. They are of the impression that come elections day they will be going to the polls to elect a mayor.
Allow me to point out the ills of such a practice. First it nullifies the importance of a councillor to his/her constituency. Secondly it miseducates the populace about the local government system. Thirdly it has the potential to create confusion at the polls when persons see a strange ballot. Lastly, it exposes Mark and team as appearing to be ignorant of the system themselves. This is something which I don’t want to believe, but I may be wrong.
Though this letter may be viewed by some as a campaign tactic, the fact remains that a man who claims to be for the people and constantly preaches accountability and transparency is hoping to win an election and is campaigning in a manner that leaves the constituents less informed. Further, I say to Mr Benschop and his team that our people have breathed enough ignorance for a very long time and we certainly don’t want them to breathe more.
Youth for Local Government would like to encourage our residents to get to know those who are vying to be councillors in their constituency. They should vote for a person who will represent them well. One who really has their best interest at heart, and who will ensure that they are well informed about the process. It is my humble opinion that they will find such persons in the Youth for Local Government.
Yours faithfully,
Clayon F Halley
Leader of Youth For Local
Government
