The Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Urban Planning, Said Sayoud, presided over a working meeting focusing on detailed analysis of reports stemming from surprise inspection missions. The meeting, held with the Inspector General of the Ministry and central inspectors, along with key central personnel, addressed inspections carried out across several provinces in the past month under the Minister’s directives.
During the session, reports from each province were presented sequentially, encompassing statistical data, photographic evidence, and detailed accounts of observed shortcomings, along with recommendations for addressing them. These inspections centered on critical areas including school conditions, public cleanliness and urban development, public services – particularly the functioning of civil registry offices and local healthcare facilities – and proactive measures for preventing risks associated with weather fluctuations.
Following a review of the reports, the Minister issued several key directives:
- Enhanced Field Presence: Intensify and expand inspection activities across all provinces and aspects of local governance, ensuring continuous monitoring rather than sporadic visits. Reports must clearly define responsibilities and instances of negligence.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Adopt a collaborative approach by actively listening to local stakeholders – officials, elected representatives, and civil society members – during inspections to accurately diagnose issues and guide local authorities in addressing shortcomings.
- Local Inspectorate Activation: Strengthen the role of local inspectorates as an extension of oversight and guidance, with increased field monitoring by district heads.
- Provincial Council Review: Governors are to receive final reports with instructions to review them at the provincial council level and rectify identified issues within 60 days.
- Urgent Priorities: Prioritize immediate improvements in school heating and transportation, utilizing the winter break to complete essential maintenance in educational institutions.
- Targeted Inspections: Deepen inspections related to civil registry operations, urban development projects, and precautionary measures against weather-related risks.
- Local Planning Oversight: Integrate oversight of local planning schemes.
The Minister emphasized the importance of proactive measures and continuous improvement in local governance to ensure the well-being of citizens and the effective delivery of public services.
