Dear Editor,
On April 12, 2024, the constitutional tenure of the Local Government Commission (LGC) expired. As of now, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has yet to establish a new commission, leaving a significant void in the governance of local authorities. This delay raises pressing questions about the oversight and administration of local government staff, encompassing municipalities and other local government bodies.
The LGC’s primary role was to oversee and regulate various aspects of local government operations, including employment practices, remuneration, superannuation, leave, and promotions upon the council recommendations with the commission’s mandate now lapsed, there is a critical gap in authority and accountability for these functions.
In the absence of the LGC, the responsibility for approving staff-related decisions has become unclear. Normally, the commission would handle the review and approval of employment terms, salaries, and promotions within local government bodies. With no active commission, questions arise about who is making these critical decisions. Is it the Secretary of the Local Government Commission? or is it the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development?
Without the LGC’s oversight, local governments face potential risks, including inconsistent application of employment policies, potential favouritism or nepotism in promotions, and unchecked salary adjustments. The lack of a regulatory body could lead to administrative inefficiencies and even corruption if not addressed promptly.
It is crucial for the PPP/C government to prioritize the constitution of a new Local Government Commission to restore oversight and accountability. The new commission will need to be appointed swiftly to ensure that employment, remuneration, and other administrative functions within local governments are managed transparently and in accordance with established standards.
The expiration of the Local Government Commission’s mandate has exposed a significant governance gap. The PPP/C government must act decisively to establish a new commission and ensure that local government operations are conducted with integrity and efficiency. The absence of oversight could undermine the effective functioning of local authorities.
Yours faithfully,
Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown
