It is the Local Body election season and is significant for Auckland.
For the first time, Aucklanders will be voting for a Super City.
Eight Local Authorities including Auckland City, Auckland Regional Council, Franklin District Council, Manukau City, North Shore City, Papakura District Council Rodney District Council and Waitakere City with merge with one Mayor and 20 Councillors administering them.
It would not be possible for this group of people to represent the interests of 1.2 million people. Local Community Boards will represent local interests and it is therefore important to get the right mix of people who can reflect the interests of Auckland ethnic communities.
In order to achieve this goal, voters must be enrolled and must cast their votes.
The right to vote is important and the ethnic communities have the ability to influence who represents their views and interests at the local body elections.
The Auckland Super City elections will be conducted by postal ballot. Those who had registered before August 20, 2010, would receive their voting papers shortly and must return them by October 9, 2010. If you are an eligible but unregistered voter, you can pick up a form from any PostShop or call the Enrolment office on 0800-367676. You could also text on 3676 with your name and address to receive an enrolment pack.
After voting opens on September 17, you should visit the Electoral Officer at your local Council to cast a Special Declaration Vote.
Voters should value their votes and therefore cast a vote during the election period.
I urge everyone to both enrol and to cast your vote.
It is pleasing to see a significant number of people from different ethnic backgrounds nominated for local boards.
This is an opportunity for people to support candidates from their own communities to represent their views.
Dr Rajen Prasad is Member of Parliament and Labour Party’s Associate Spokesman for Ethnic Affairs and Social Development (Child, Family & Youth). The above article is exclusive to Indian Newslink ©
