Several mayors and deputy mayors took their oath of office on Friday morning before President Irfaan Ali. Those who took the oath are Mayor Chris Mark Phang and Deputy Mayor Carolyn Adelva Robinson of Mabaruma, Mayor Rajendra Lall Prabhulall and Deputy Mayor Lorna Fitzallen of Anna Regina, Mayor Ubraj Narine and Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore of Georgetown, Mayor Winifred Heywood, Deputy Mayor Wainwright McIntosh of New Amsterdam, Mayor Dave Budhu and Mayor Roydel Lewis Rose Hall, Mayor Winston Roberts and Deputy Mayor Imran Amin of Corriverton, Mayor Gifford Eldon Marshall and Deputy Mayor Arita Peggy Embleton of Bartica, Mayor David Samuel Adams and Deputy Mayor Juewayne Mendonca-Burrowes of Madhia, Mayor John Theophillus Macedo and Deputy Mayor Debra Evadne King of Madhia and Mayor John Theophillus Macedo Deputy Mayor Wainewright Odida Bethune of Linden.
President Ali pointed out that the macro development agenda is critical as he said that the country is embarking on a transformative plan that will see critical infrastructural links being created, rehabilitated and re-established, “It is therefore imperative that we all not only embrace a common development trajectory but that we consult, that we talk and we share ideas to ensure at the end of the day, the people of Guyana get the best service that we can deliver to them,” the President said.
The Head of State acknowledged the many challenges facing municipalities and towns, including the rate of tax collection and outstanding audits. He said these issues have a direct bearing on transparency, the sustainability of the councils themselves and the viability of the councils as he extended the government’s willingness to assist.