NO MEDDLING FROM MINISTER KUMAR, TOWN COUNCILS CONFIRM
There is no meddling or interference by the Minister for Local Government Premila Kumar, in the running of the Labasa and Savusavu Town Councils.
Special Administrator Ami Kohli made this statement following claims made by the National Federation Party Member of Parliament Biman Prasad. Mr Prasad claimed there were concerns from ratepayers about the management of the councils and there was direct ministerial interference into the day-today operations, including the appointment of management.
Mr Kohli said the special administrators had been specifically told that the running of the councils was their responsibility and they should act in the best interests of the ratepayers.
“We have been left to make decisions regarding the future developments of the towns The chief executive officers of both councils were chosen by the three special administrators from the list of applicants. Advertisements were put out by the ministry to save cost,” Mr Kohli said.
“The law also provides for shared services among the councils and which does not mean that there is collusion. We are in the process of hiring a lawyer who will be working for both councils and his salary will be paid by both councils. Who we hire and fire is our choice. “Whenever there is an issue with the staff we invite union representatives for discussion with the staff concerned.”
He said the only time they had requested assistance from Minister Kumar was to review the garbage rate that the council increased.
“She felt that the increase was without ample notice and not fair to the ratepayers. This was subsequently reviewed and reduced. And of course she waived the market stall fees for the first two stalls for three months because of the impact of COVID-19,” Mr Kohli said.
Update on Labasa Town Council works
The Labasa Town Council has embarked on maintaining the cleanliness of the town.
“We have also relocated the fishermen to the new fish market and are going to upgrade the same,” he said.
“There is concern about the soil erosion on the river bank and that will be addressed soon.
“We have been having drainage problems for many years and this is being attended to.”
Mr Kohli outlined some of the work being carried out in Labasa: Working with the Ministry of Waterways in Sarosaro Lane
Remedial works at Subrail Park to start soon. Relocation of the Labasa market. A number of areas have been identified. Looking for more land to relocate the bus stand. Process of acquiring more land for council use. Looking at using solar power to reduce costs. Beautification of the town continues.