In the midst of GEBE’s disheartening and contentious development, Member of
Parliament Omar Ottley has raised significant concerns regarding the government’s
recent proposal to allocate Naf.75.6 million from the Capital Expenditure budget for
2024 to purchase generators for the GEBE. During a press release MP Omar Ottley
underscored the critical need for transparency and fairness in the use of taxpayer
money, especially in light of the ongoing challenges faced by the citizens.
“Let us be clear: this money belongs to the people,” MP Omar stated emphatically.
“We are already being overcharged for electricity that is suppose to be a basic need
and not forgetting a burdensome fuel clause, which has been unjustly leveraged to
cover costs associated with the causeway bridge and the supplier’s expenses. It is
simply unacceptable to expect the people to shoulder the additional financial
responsibility of purchasing generators for GEBE without any guarantee of relief
and/or compensation for their losses.”
MP Ottley highlighted the severe impact that frequent power outages have had on
local businesses and households, resulting in damaged equipment, loss of
perishable goods, and a significant decline in economic productivity. Despite the
before mentioned, the population is then hit with inaccurate and inflated bills the add
insult to injury. “While the government seeks to spend taxpayer dollars on these
generators, it is imperative that we ask why, especially when GEBE has the ability to
get their own loan. Before we can consider adding more cost to the government
coffers we need to address the pressing concerns of our constituents,” he continued.
“There has been zero discussion of compensation for the hardships faced by our
citizens due to GEBE’s unreliable service. This lack of dialogue raises serious
questions about compliance to the concession ordinance.”
MP Omar Ottley further emphasized that it is only fair for the government to provide
a relief package for those affected by the power outages before proceeding with the
budget approval. “We must ensure that our citizens are not left in the dark—both
literally and figuratively. There are many amongst us that have been without
electricity for months and are willing to pay what they can afford, but their payment
schedule by GEBE doesn’t allow the possibility. They deserve to be considered, and
it is our duty as their representatives to advocate for their rights and well-being.”
The MP concluded by urging citizens to stay informed and engaged as this critical
issue unfolds, stating, “Rest assured that I will hold our government accountable and
fight for the relief and compensation that our people rightfully deserve.”
