New Reg. 4 REO vows people centred, accountable leadership

Newly appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Juan Edghill Jr, said on Sunday that his administration will focus on stronger public service delivery, accountability, responsiveness and community engagement as he settles into the role.

Appearing on the Starting Point podcast, Edghill described public service as “one of the most dynamic and humbling” responsibilities, noting that leadership is about serving people rather than holding a title. “I don’t see leadership as something you do to get a position, but it is to serve,” he stated, adding that his new role presents an opportunity to provide “higher service” to the people of Region Four.

The REO said his administration will operate on three main pillars: being people-centred, service-oriented and development-focused.

According to him, every policy, programme or project undertaken by the regional administration must directly improve the welfare and wellbeing of citizens. The new REO also outlined plans to strengthen accountability and efficiency across the region’s operations, particularly in public spending and procurement.

Drawing from his background in financial regulation, Edghill said strict adherence to the law and financial regulations will guide the administration’s work.

He explained that the region will closely follow the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, the Procurement Act, the Audit Act and the Local Democratic Organs Act to ensure transparency and proper governance. “We will be guided by the recommendations of the Auditor General and ensure we correct deficiencies that were repeatedly flagged,” he added.

The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) will focus heavily on responsiveness to citizens’ concerns and improving access to regional services. “I don’t want complaints about people calling the RDC and not getting through,” the REO stressed, while pledging greater visibility within communities through outreach activities, walkabouts and future public days.

On development, he revealed that more than 100 projects are currently underway across the East Coast, East Bank and Highway areas. Programme heads, engineers and departmental officials have already been engaged to review project progress and ensure works move at a faster pace.

Edghill credited President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and his government for creating opportunities for young professionals to lead and contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s transformation. (DPI)