Linden Town Council dispute escalates over toll revocation

The APNU/PNCR coalition has criticized the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration for overstepping its authority regarding the Linden Town Council. The dispute centers on Minister Priya Manickchand’s decision to revoke tolls on the Kara Kara Road, an action the coalition claims stripped the Council of essential revenue and was performed without legal standing.

APNU Chairman Aubrey Norton has called for an independent audit to investigate the Council’s financial difficulties and administrative deficiencies. The coalition argues that the government is attempting to blame elected councillors for mismanagement, whereas they contend that day-to-day administrative and financial responsibilities lie with the PPP-appointed Town Clerk.

The tension follows a joint statement involving Linden Mayor Dominique Blair and the central government, which the opposition describes as a government-drafted political document intended to discredit elected representatives rather than a balanced consensus.