PERU: WV plan stems corruption in local politics

A new campaign instigated by World Vision aims to stem corruption in local politics and allow marginalised communities to be heard.

Last week 500 voters from seven districts of Cusipata, one of the rural provinces of Cusco, met and heard for the first time, political candidates debate in the lead-up to Sunday's municipal elections.

The event was organised by World Vision in Cusipata, together with two community organisations. The debate was part of a campaign to encourage popular participation in politics.

World Vision development worker Sergio Valencia said in the last ten years the local government had been involved with corruption, which impacted directly on the people.

“We tried to respond to one of the basics rights of citizens, which is information. We didn’t expect that crowd, but later we understood that people were anxious to let their voices be heard too,” he said.

Nine candidates explained their government plans. It ended with the signing of a Pact of Governorship, where all candidates committed to an honest, and participatory municipal government.

Before the debate, World Vision organised three workshops with local and community institutions on strategic planning, which produced a preliminary document called the Strategic Plan for Cusipata Development. It is expected this plan will serve as an aid for the new mayor.