By Saskia Warrick
The Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, has announced that legal actions will soon be taken against Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) involved in the illegal sale and rental of public properties.
Nandlall issued a stern warning to Councilors to cease these unauthorized activities immediately.
Reports have surfaced indicating that some NDCs are engaged in the illicit sale and rental of public lands, with Councilors themselves purchasing these properties.
Such actions are deemed illegal as they fall outside the functions of the Council, which requires explicit permission from the Minister of Local Government for such transactions.
Nandlall outlined that legal proceedings will commence shortly, holding both buyers and sellers accountable for these illegal transactions.
He emphasized that Councilors are elected to manage community services such as waste collection, sanitation, and maintenance of roads and markets, not to engage in property transactions.
The Attorney General also highlighted that public lands not currently occupied in communities are designated for specific purposes and should not be sold off.
This issue underscores the importance of adhering to legal frameworks designed to protect public assets.
Recently, approximately 95% of NDC Councilors and overseers nationwide underwent training in legal affairs, financial management, community involvement, and record management to enhance their roles and responsibilities.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs is determined to enforce these regulations to prevent further misuse of public lands and ensure proper governance within NDCs.