Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan said that there is time enough for the ministry to fill the vacant top position at Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and for the 2018 Local Government Elections to proceed without issues.
Speaking at the Ministry’s mid-term review and budget proposal at Regency Hotel, Hadfield Street, Minister Bulkan explained today that despite the absence of a GECOM Chairman, that its work continues in preparation for the elections, which is slated for next year adding, “the absence of a chairman is not affecting the work of GECOM.”
Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan today, said that the country’s 2018 Local Government Election(LGE) will proceed without any issues especially since the establishment of the Local Government Commission is set to be operational by year-end. The eight member constitutional body Local Government Commission, through the Ministry of Communities, is mandated to oversee, monitor, investigate and examine the actions of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the municipalities.
The minister explained that there is time for the ministry to fill the vacant position at Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in time for the local government election slated for next year. He however noted that, “the absence of a chairman is not affecting the work of GECOM.”
The legislation for the Local Government Commission came into existence in late 2013, however the body’s operationalisation required a commencement order which was not provided. This led to the government’s decision to proceed with the initiative, in keeping with the ministry’s agenda, to establish independence among the various local government organs.
Minister Bulkan also explained that the commission will be working with the ministry to ensure that there are improved services offered to the citizens. (GINA/DPI)
