PARAMARIBO – “District Commissioners are not allowed to be visible or actively involved in the activities of political parties, especially given that the general elections will be held in a few months,” said Gracia Emanuel, Minister of Regional Development and Sports (ROS), in response to complaints presented to her in Parliament last Friday.

MPs Melvin Bouva (NDP) and Ebu Jones (NDP) complained about DCs who have ties with political parties and who are actively participating in the election campaigns. “I can assure you that it is against the rules for DCs to partake in the activities of political parties can assure you that it is against the rules for DCs to partake in the activities of political parties. We have taken notice of the comments of the members and will issue the necessary instructions,” said Minister Emanuel.

Although DCs are appointed by political parties, there are protocols in place to protect the integrity of the institution. The DCs play an important role in organizing elections and coordinating activities at polling stations. In order to protect the objectivity the ROS and the entire electoral organization must keep an eye on the DCs to make sure that they remain neutral.