The main duty of the trustees is to preserve and protect the funds, properties and estates of the trust, to settle internal disputes without the intervention of courts and bringing benefits of the funds to the poor and the needy. Besides kindness, compassion, patience, humility and integrity, the trustees need to have professional skills and experience in the legal, financial and administrative fields.
Religious matters should not be brought into the boardroom. In the past, those elected in the name of orthodoxy and religion have created conflicts in the community and not only tarnished its image, but also emptied the coffers of the trust to the extent that today there is difficulty in even paying salaries to the staff.
The prestigious position of trusteeship is often used to promote personal interests or bring lucrative income for their families. No family member of any trustee should receive direct or indirect benefits from the trust. Trustees are expected to make decisions of their own free will and not be influenced by others who might have obliged them earlier.
Differences of opinion are signs of a healthy democracy, but if this creates enmity it brings shame to the institution and has an adverse effect on the physical and emotional health of the trustees.
Let us think rationally and come out of the narrow minded conservative dungeon of orthodoxy, to an open, free and liberal path of peace and freedom.
We want to preserve and protect our traditions and customs, but until we accept change, we will not progress. Sincere workers need no lavish canvassing, offering gifts or making promises which are difficult to keep. Service is what they offer, honor and dignity their rewards.
People should think rationally, chose wisely and cast their votes for candidates who will not betray their trust. PIROJA HOMI JOKHI
piroja.jokhi@yahoo.com