Democracy Matters

The community stated that giving an opportunity to have a community leader represented in the decision making will go a long way in reflecting the voice of the community as it may impact the community.

The discussion reflects that they feel that voting powers should be added for the representative of the community as in instances where a matter goes into voting, it might look like a waste of time if their opinions are not welcomed to voting stages.

The existing decision-makers often have access to some classified information that influences their decision which they may not be able to disclose, in view of this, the discussion are of the opinion that existing decision-makers should retain and over-right decision making powers in the interest of the wider communities.

One of the ways suggested by the discussions is that, all age bracket should be represented as well gender, faith and races. It was agreed by the discussion that where there is limitation in terms of numbers then the most agreed characteristics should be sent to be representative on the decision making bodies to demonstrate equality and fair representations.

The discussion stated that they would like to see minority groups such as individuals based on sexual identification, races and faith represented via other selection methods and that methods could be by encouraging the communities to send representatives or doing community promotions where self or community referral is welcomed

To continue to advocate on behalf of the communities that they represent, on all the required areas (and statutory roles) as might be brought to their attention by their constituents

Decision before it gets to final ratification/adoption stages to be brought to the community to seek their views as to if it meets the immediate needs of the community. This way, they will be accountable to the community as the community will have an opportunity to have a say.

Yes. Community events are opportunities to have a large selection of views from the local residents in the community and is a very impactful tool to adopt.

Adopting the use of social media (perhaps opinion polls etc) as may people might find it easier to engage that way than attending a face-to-face based meeting.

Involve residents associations as well as community councils will enhance a strong voice inputs from across the community in decision makings.

Yes time bounds and renewal ballots are good ideas.

The discussion were of the view that resourcing of the decision making should be widely publicised as it is feedback that often the community is not aware in real-time, also the discussion was of the view that human resource should take in account the demography of that particular community and try as much as possible to have a robust representation.

Yes, they appear so.

Opinion polls welcoming opinions from individuals of the community on how they would like to see this happen is the best way to approach this rather than it be assumed. Collated response can be used to design the charter of decision making processes.

Training, toolbox talks and visits to other groups to see ideas that worked or that did not worked will be resourceful supports for capacity building.

More training opportunities as correct understanding and information are very key into effective partnerships

None at this time