A SILVER lining appears to be on the horizon at the Mabaruma Town Council, as members from the government and opposition sides met for the first time last week.And the council plans to address several issues in the North West District’s first town, including approaching the Central Government to address the dire state of the roadways there.

Mabaruma was commissioned as a new town following the March 18 Local Government Elections this year, but a split in the number of councillors who were elected to serve on the 12-member body resulted in the council being placed in a handicapped position.

The Government and Opposition PPP/C each share 6 seats on the council, and while Henry Smith was elected to serve as the town’s mayor, his position remains one on paper, since the opposition PPP/C had moved to the courts in April to challenge Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan’s decision to appoint a mayor after the tie in the number of seats.

The 12-member council reportedly met at Mabaruma on September 21st, and discussed a host of issues, including the state of the road network, electricity, and water supply.
This publication understands that the council meeting was chaired by PPP/C councillor Vibert Emmanual.

While the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) is not in a position to finance the town council, the latter body is planning to approach the Government to address the issue.

Mabaruma and neighbouring communities receive electricity from 17:00h to 23:00h and from 05:00h to 07:00h daily. The town council plans to address the supply schedule with the aim of improving the hours.
The water network has not been functioning properly. One councillor told this publication on Saturday that plans are in train to improve the current situation as well.

This publication understands that the town council would be working to establish its office from where it will carry out its mandate. A site and building has been identified in that regard.

Through its member Zulficar Mustapha, the PPP/C had, in April, filed proceedings in the court, blocking Smith and Astrille Gamell from performing the functions of Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Meanwhile, following the September 21 meeting, several council members expressed optimism that the council would be able to function with a mayor and deputy mayor in the near future.
A councillor told this publication on Saturday that development of the town has been recognized as a priority, and, “in spite of our differences, things will happen”. Former Region One Chairman Barringtown Ward is working alongside the council in the capacity of Town Clerk.