“A 70-Million Dollar Insult”: MP Sherod Duncan Blasts Mahdia Authorities Over Deplorable State of Recreational Ground
By: Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
MAHDIA, POTARO-SIPARUNI (REGION 8) — A deepening row over the maintenance of public infrastructure has reached a boiling point in the township of Mahdia. Sherod Duncan, Member of Parliament for the opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has issued a scathing public condemnation of both the Mahdia Town Council and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), accusing the PPP-led bodies of “total neglect” of the local recreational ground.
The facility, which is supposed to serve as a safe haven for the community’s youth, is currently described as an unsanitary eyesore plagued by poor construction and a foul odor.
“Token Improvements” vs. Lived Reality
In a pointed video statement, MP Duncan highlighted a disconnect between the government’s high-priced community projects and the actual condition of local amenities.
- Unsanitary Conditions: Duncan noted that an unpleasant smell now permeates the playground area, rendering it unusable for local children.
- Material Failure: He criticized the “poor quality” of materials used in recent state-led repairs, suggesting a lack of genuine oversight and accountability in how regional funds are being spent.
- Superficial Fixes: The MP expressed deep skepticism regarding the “cleanup campaigns” that typically occur only when a government minister is scheduled to visit the region.
“This is how we do the work of members of parliament—holding government accountable and looking after the interests of our people. We will not settle for token improvements that vanish once the cameras leave.” — MP Sherod Duncan
The 70-Million Dollar Contrast
The current state of neglect stands in sharp contrast to a high-profile private-public partnership launched in 2024.
- The “Luxury” Park: Cabana Marketing and Fantasy Gaming Lounge previously collaborated on a 70-million dollar initiative to establish a luxury play park and outdoor gym at the Oval Community Ground in Mahdia.
- The Discrepancy: Residents are now questioning why a town that saw a multi-million dollar sod-turning event just two years ago is now struggling with basic sanitation and maintenance at its primary recreational facility.
Silence from the Town Council
When approached by Nightly News for a response to the MP’s allegations, the Mayor of Mahdia, Eslyn Hussain, acknowledged that she was aware of the issues raised. However, the Mayor declined to offer any further comment or provide a timeline for when the “unsanitary” conditions would be addressed.
A Call for Accountability
As Mahdia continues to grow as a key hub in the gold-mining district, the pressure on its public infrastructure remains immense. For MP Sherod Duncan, the state of the recreational ground is a microcosm of a larger governance failure in the region. He has vowed that the opposition will continue to maintain a “watchdog” presence in the town until the children of Mahdia are provided with the clean, safe, and modern play space they were promised.
