The chair of the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) has stated that communities were given the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process of determining how wards should be constituted. This announcement comes after the MDB received criticism from certain groups claiming that they were not consulted in the ward delimitation process.
In an effort to ensure fair representation and inclusivity, the MDB invited communities to submit proposals on how they believed wards should be constituted. This was a proactive step taken by the board to involve the public and give them a say in the decisions that affect their daily lives.
According to the chair, the MDB received a significant number of proposals from various communities across the country. This shows that the public has a vested interest in the ward delimitation process and wants to actively participate in shaping their local government.
The MDB has always been committed to transparency and accountability in its decision-making process. This is evident in the fact that the board has made an effort to engage with communities through public hearings and consultations. The proposals submitted by the public were thoroughly reviewed and considered before final decisions were made.
The chair emphasized that the board’s main objective is to ensure that wards are fairly and equitably demarcated, taking into account factors such as population size, geographical boundaries, and community interests. The proposals received from the public were carefully evaluated against these criteria to ensure that the final ward boundaries are representative of the community’s needs and interests.
The MDB has also taken into account the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and has made necessary adjustments to ensure the safety of the public during the public consultations. The board has utilized online platforms and virtual meetings to reach a wider audience and gather input from those who may not have been able to attend in-person consultations.
The chair also addressed the concerns raised by certain groups claiming that their proposals were not considered in the delimitation process. The MDB has ensured that all proposals received were given due consideration and evaluated fairly, regardless of the source. The board’s decision-making process is based on objective criteria and not influenced by any external factors.
The MDB’s commitment to engaging with communities and taking their proposals into consideration is a testament to the board’s dedication to promoting democracy and ensuring fair representation in local government. The board’s efforts to involve the public in the ward delimitation process should be commended and appreciated.
In conclusion, the MDB chair’s statement affirms that the board has taken all necessary steps to involve communities in the ward delimitation process and has considered their proposals in a fair and transparent manner. This is a positive step towards building a more inclusive and representative local government that truly reflects the needs and interests of the people. The MDB’s commitment to engaging with communities is a testament to the board’s dedication to promoting democracy and ensuring fair representation. Let us continue to work together to build stronger and more inclusive communities for a better future.
