On April 5, 2024, Minister Pauline Sukhai addressed Regional Executive Officers (REOs) from all ten administrative regions during a training session at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. The REOs, who will serve as Returning Officers (ROs) for the upcoming Amerindian Village Council Elections in May, were urged to ensure that the elections are conducted transparently, lawfully, and fairly. This training, organized by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, aimed to equip the officers with the necessary guidelines and practices to facilitate a smooth and discrepancy-free electoral process.

Minister Sukhai emphasized the significant role these administrators play in upholding the democratic values outlined in the Amerindian Act of 2006. She stressed that these elections are crucial for expressing democratic principles, hearing the community’s concerns, and realizing their aspirations. She also highlighted issues from past elections, such as the breach of the secret ballot mandate, and stressed the importance of adhering strictly to the legal requirements this time around.

Permanent Secretaries Ryan Toolsiram and Miguel Choo-Kang, from the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Local Government and Regional Development respectively, also delivered remarks at the opening. Additionally, Management Development Officers, Community Development Officers, and Community Support Officers will act as observers to ensure transparency during the elections.

These triennial elections involve the selection of new council members for over 200 villages and communities across the country. As part of the electoral preparations, villages were required to publicize their list of voters on March 15, 2024, allowing three months for public scrutiny before the election date. This process is vital for the proper administration and development planning of the villages, as well as for representing their communities at the national level.

(Story modified from Department of Public Information)