Governor Bird calls for honest and united leadership from newly elected LLG presidents

East Sepik Governor Alan Bird has called on Local Level Government presidents to uphold honesty and work closely with their open Members of Parliament as they begin their new terms in office.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony for the 28 newly elected LLG presidents, Governor Bird said the province is entering tough times, and strong, committed leadership is needed now more than ever.

He said the East Sepik Provincial Government will continue doing its best to secure funding and ensure services reach the people and he urged the new leaders to push resources down to the local level.

“If you succeed, we succeed,” he told them.

Bird noted that despite ongoing challenges, the province will continue to move forward because the people stand behind their government.

He reminded the presidents that their mandate comes from the people, and delivering services must remain their top priority.

The Governor urged them to work hand-in-hand with their open MPs

“He is going to need you, and you are going to need him.” Bird stated.

Bird commended the presidents for stepping up to lead during difficult times and thanked them for their courage and commitment.

He also highlighted East Sepik’s recent budget cuts, most of which affect LLG operations and stressed that it is time for leaders to work even harder to meet community needs.

He encouraged them to remain accountable, noting that they are benefitting from the trust of the people who elected them.

Bird further explained that the previous assembly made the decision for LLG presidents to be elected directly by the people, an important shift that saw only seven members from the last assembly return.

The Governor stressed that every community has something meaningful to contribute and that unity will determine the province’s progress.

“For the member to succeed, for you to succeed, for the people to succeed, for the province to succeed, we must all find a way to work together,” he said.

“Welcome to the job,” Governor Bird concluded.

Meanwhile, Manuel Ganai of West Yangoru, Yangoru-Saussia District, was elected Deputy Governor after securing majority nominations in the Assembly Chamber.