Advocate presents citizens’ petition demanding for quality service delivery

The petition outlined how the failure to rehabilitate roads and provide essential public services has had far-reaching socio-economic consequences in some areas of the capital

By Ajah Jennifer

Residents of Gudele, Miasaba and Hai referendum and neighboring communities have submitted a legal petition citing years of neglect, poor infrastructure, and inadequate basic services.

The petition, led by Advocate Mario Makaer and titled “Citizens have the right to demand services from their government”, was officially submitted to the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

The petition outlined how the failure to rehabilitate roads and provide essential public services such as clean water, electricity, and healthcare has had far-reaching socio-economic consequences. Advocate Makaer emphasized that these conditions violated the constitutional duty of the government to provide for its citizens, particularly when taxes continue to be collected from them.

“These areas have suffered from years of neglect,” said Advocate Makaer in a recent interview. “Every rainy season, roads become impassable, transportation costs skyrocket, and access to education and healthcare is severely disrupted.”

He stated that the issue was beyond the poor infrastructure, but the effects it has on the livelihood of the people.

“We’re talking about a complete denial of rights. If people can’t get to school or hospitals, or even to town to do business, then their lives are being put on hold.”

The petition also called for temporary tax exemptions for residents and businesses in the affected areas.

Makaer defended the community’s demand, arguing that taxes are supposed to be reinvested into public services.

​“If the services are not delivered, then we have a legal basis to demand a tax suspension,” he explained.

“Citizens need transparency. They need to know where their money is going.”

​He said that while the government may be facing economic hardship, such issues must be communicated transparently to the public.

The petition gives the government a 14-day deadline to respond and initiate rehabilitation plans.

Makaer warned that if the deadline passes without a meaningful response, the group will proceed with legal action in court.

​“This is not a threat; this is a legal procedure,” he said.

“We are exercising our rights peacefully, according to the law. If this goes to court and the ruling is in favor of the citizens, we expect full compliance from the government.”

​When asked how they would ensure the court’s ruling is implemented, Makaer remained firm, “The same law that empowers the government to govern also gives the people the right to demand justice. Compliance is not optional.”

​The advocate said that the petition was not an act of defiance but a push to a constitutional call to action for the government to uphold its duties.

However, he advised the residents of Gudele, Miasaba, and Hai- referendum to remain calm, follow legal procedures and avoid violence.

“We must demand our rights through proper channels,” he urged. “Let the law work for the people.”