IN the wake of democratic competition, a crucial moment arises. This is the point when words must turn into real service delivery.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent speech to Guyana’s newly sworn-in regional chairpersons and vice-chairpersons clearly highlights leadership is not a prize to be grabbed, but a promise to be kept.

This distinction, though it may seem small, greatly impacts how this level of governance deals with the challenges in our diverse regions.

The President’s focus on “responsiveness and delivery” as key measures of success shows a significant change in our democratic growth. Regional Democratic Councils serve as the drivers of regional development.

They are the first line of governance citizens turn to when problems arise, and they cannot be the last to respond.

This accessibility is not just about convenience; it forms the basis of public trust in democratic institutions. When people see their leaders present in communities, listening carefully and acting quickly, the idea of governance becomes real and reliable.

The practical task goes beyond just being responsive; it requires proactive steps. President Ali’s insistence that leaders “intervene early” and “innovate rather than indicate” rejects the easy complacency that often exists in bureaucratic systems.

Regional leaders need to foresee citizen needs rather than just respond to emergencies. They should lead the way in finding solutions instead of merely expressing intentions. The government’s range of community projects, from infrastructure to water and sanitation improvements, provides the tools for regional authorities, but it is up to them to implement these initiatives.

However, the most important aspect of this speech relates to cooperation across political lines. In a country where election campaigns can create deep divisions, the call to “turn the page on political rivalry” and focus on “unity of purpose” is more than just diplomatic talk.

It recognises that Guyana’s progress cannot be held back by partisan differences. The PPP/C’s control in eight out of ten regions brings both opportunity and responsibility. There is an opportunity to promote governance that centers on people, along with the responsibility to ensure that oversight and accountability are strong in all regions, even where opposition parties are in charge.

This co-operation becomes even more urgent given Guyana’s rapid changes and large geography. Effective governance cannot just come from Georgetown. It requires regional leaders who have both the authority and the resources to meet their communities’ specific needs. Resolving the tension between regional independence and constitutional order must happen through cooperation, not conflict.

The people of Guyana have shown their ability to judge through elections. They now expect their representatives to turn those electoral promises into real progress. The agreement between leaders and constituents is binding and cannot be changed. Whether our regional democratic bodies uphold this agreement will shape the future of our democratic institutions in the coming years.