Translated by Jesús Ronquillo / Circuito Frontera
Being able to question the authorities on how public resources are spent and how is a right that all citizens have, however, many are unaware of it and has given rise to irregularities with public funds.
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Under this premise, Citizens for a Better Public Administration (CIMAP) seeks to empower citizens and, through a project, promote informed and responsible citizen participation in government affairs, said Hernán Ortiz Quintana, spokesman for the group
The academic also pointed out that an example of this is the construction of businesses in the “El Chamizal” Public Park, which was built without a land use license, operating license, construction license, authorization from the National Banking and Securities Commission, as well as a Civil Protection report.
“It is evident that the city’s administration leaves much to be desired. What we want to promote with this social comptroller mechanism is that by working together, society and government, we can move Ciudad Juarez forward and have a place where there is a dignified life for everyone.
He stressed the importance of citizens being empowered to review the use of public funds, as well as the bureaucratic processes for public works and the contracting of goods and services.
And explained that the project is focused on getting more people involved in citizen oversight and requesting information from the municipal government about the comptroller’s office and the destination of resources.
He expressed that any citizen could approach the municipal government to obtain documents related to public management and, in case of detecting irregularities, know how to proceed with a complaint.
This approach seeks to improve transparency and accountability in the city’s administration.
The academic also emphasized the various urban problems facing Ciudad Juarez, such as lack of maintenance in public spaces, potholes, insufficient infrastructure in public areas, and problems with telecommunications.
He also mentioned the sale of drugs in the city center, highlighting the need for a more efficient and responsible administration.
The activist also commented on some specific examples of irregularities detected, such as works initiated without the necessary permits, irregular contracting and mismanaged projects, which underscore the importance of citizen oversight in public management.
He indicated that these types of problems have been made known by the State Superior Audit Office, as well as situations that should not be happening and are what citizens have the right to question the authorities about.
Ortiz Quintana pointed out that CIMAP seeks to foster a collaboration between society and government to improve the quality of life in Ciudad Juarez, so those interested in participating or learning more about their rights of citizen participation.
Those interested in receiving advice and support, can request information through their email: cimapjuarez@gmail.com
