They collectively abstained (from voting) in the elections for local councilors.

他们在地员选举中集体弃权。

The councilor's proposal didn't succeed because his argument failed to carry conviction.

那个员建不受欢迎, 因为他论据没有说服力。

Several leading citizens have lodged complaints against the city councilors for their mishandling of public money.

市民中几位领导人物就市员滥用他们提出控诉。