[UPDATED] Don’t be tempted by bribes

Former Sangre Grande Regional Corporation (SGRC) chairman and PNM councillor Terry Rondon has urged newly sworn in councillors and aldermen to never be tempted by bribes while they are in office.

Rondon said the temptation of bribes from contractors was very real as he had received several over the years as chairman.

“I know contractors come to you and make their offers. Desist from that. My mother always told me, ‘Terry, let them take you, not your name.’ I could say for my 24 years in politics, I can walk the road with my head high. Nobody could point their finger and say anything bad about this man.

“You are helping people, doing things for people, yes, but take your reward from God. Nobody could point fingers at me.”

Councillor Anil Juteram was sworn in as the new chairman, and Kenwyn Phillip was elected vice-chairman at the SGRC on Tuesday afternoon.

Roger Monroe and Daneille Marshall-Piper of the PNM, and Keon Anton Saroopsingh and Susan Stephanie Holder of the UNC were sworn in as aldermen.

Rondon told the council to never turn away anyone, and never be too tired to listen to their concerns. He urged them to always walk with the people and be part of their every day lives.

“I want to give thanks for the 24 years I have enjoyed at the corporation – six as chairman. At times it has been rough.

“I will die loving all the people – white, black, tangerine, orange. I thank the people of Toco, and my family who has suffered because of my long hours.

“I kept that promise to the people and I say to the past and present administration, it will make you or break you. Sometimes we feel we is it. Desist from any fallout with administration. Work with the media so they will see how you work with the people. You must have good PR, don’t hush them.”

Rondon said he gave his full commitment to the new chairman, and will not undermine anyone. He said the council was about the people of the region and there was no time for bickering.

“Come to the meetings. I have no time when meetings are called for 9 am to wait until ten, 11, 12 for you to show up.

“Never, never be too tired to listen to the people. Never drive around your jurisdiction with your glass up, and do not switch off your cellphone. Attend weddings, funerals, christenings, sports day and don’t walk with your hand swinging.”

Juteram said the reason he was now chairman was because the people listened and gave him their support. He said his mandate was to make sure the council is well united, and hit the ground running to help all the people in the region.