BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
AS the country elects a new government after four years, it is imperative that it deserves the attention it requires.
Time and time again, the same old story unfolds during election time in democracies worldwide.
This perhaps explains the nature and state of government negligence at the provincial level.
Youth advocate Harley Rod highlighted this issue as voters were accommodated at the famous MSG building near the main wharf of the provincial headquarters in Gizo.
Rod has raised questions about the lack of accommodation for voters, particularly mothers and children who were forced to sleep overnight at the MSG.
“For years, I have been pondering over this issue. Most Members of Parliament have ignored the rights of voters who cast their votes for them, as no accommodation has been provided,” Rod expressed his concerns.
“Due to bad weather, many boats that transported voters from surrounding islands have ended up here in Gizo,” he added.
“When will the voters, especially the mothers in the Western Province, realize these issues?” said Rod.
Rod stated that promises made by parties and candidates before elections are often forgotten once they are in power.
He mentioned that he voted for change, hoping that the elected leader would address the cries of the mothers who are forced to sleep in the MSG building. These mothers hail from Ranonga, Simbo, Vella la Vella, and Kolombangara Islands.
Rod emphasized that his vote is meant to encourage leaders to address health risks, development, social issues, and provide proper shelter for voters, as they are the true power-holders.
“This election is a fight for a leader who will address these issues because we, the people, are not refugees but citizens of this country. We have the power to elect a government that will represent its people in parliament,” Rod asserted.
Rod called upon all Members of Parliament from Shortland Islands to Marovo Lagoon to lay the foundation for constructing shelters for vendors, visitors, and the people of the Western Province who visit Gizo, thereby avoiding the need to sleep at the MSG building.
