Open letter to Sylvester Cadette

Rupert Sorhaindo

I have read your comments in DNO with much interest. And I should add I that I was both surprised and disappointed that you chose to take Mr. Gregor Nassief and Honourable Lennox Linton to task for selecting the vehicle of an “open letter’ to communicate their concerns to each other in the wake of the widely viewed CBS 60 Minutes television programme which was aired on New Year’s day.

What disappointed me the most was the rather flippant manner in which you appeared to trivialize the national “debate” which has been going on since the televised broadcast of that unfair, one-sided attack on one of the most promising revenue generating mechanisms being used by Dominica and several other OECS countries for the development of their respective countries in these difficult economic times.

My surprise stemmed from my familiarity with you, and my recognition that you are a well read professional whose reasoned comments have, until this instance been a refreshing change from the petty, irrational, incoherent and frequently vile and savage partisan rhetoric (which I know that you take a dim view of), appearing in our online news organs and in social media. In that context I invite you to take another look at the comments appearing alongside your own!

I trust that you will not react to this “open letter” in the same manner that you reacted to those of Mr. Nassief to Linton, Linton to Nassief and Nassief to Linton! In fact being the reasonable and civilized gentleman that I know you to be (and this is no flattery!), I am confident that you will appreciate my point of view, and even agree with me that your comments appearing in DNO of January 13, 2017 may have been penned during a rare moment of frivolity.

As you must know, the “open letter” is a communication tool which has been employed effectively for ages. It is defined as “a published letter on a subject of general interest addressed to a person but intended for general readership”! And there can be no doubt that the conversation which the two gentlemen were having was on a matter or matters of general interest which they both wanted the citizens of Dominica to be informed about.

Let us rewind and see what started the conversation? On New Year’s Day, 2017 Mr. Linton appeared on international television and contributed to and even reinforced the very negative image portrayed by the host of the 60 Minutes, of Dominica’s Economic Citizenship programme, by endorsing Mr. Kroft’s characterization of it as “sorta just mail order citizenship”! And Linton went on further, to give credibility to the following incredible assertion injected into the interview by Mr. Kroft: “The sale of diplomatic passports is not part of the citizenship by investment program, BUT IT GOES ON UNDER THE TABLE, PARTICULARLY IN DOMINICA….”, by producing the names of three persons who he claimed were dodgy diplomats, who in his opinion must have bought Dominican passports “under the table”. It must be emphasized here that Mr. Linton, even with his “legendary” investigative skills has yet to produce a shred of evidence to substantiate those old, oft-repeated allegations – some of which are almost a decade old!

The conversation continued in the wake of the CBS documentary, with Linton taking to the airwaves and social media to launch a caustic attack on entrepreneur Sam Raphael who had described the CBS  programme as a “hit job” on Dominica’s CBI, after his positive comments on Dominica’s economic citizenship programme to CBS interviewers did not “make the cut” on 60 Minutes!

Successful and prominent hotelier Gregor Nassief, then entered into the national conversation; and exercising his right as a citizen and major stakeholder in the economic development of Dominica, penned a rational analysis of the issues which appeared in two local online newspapers as an “open letter” – addressed to Mr. Linton, but obviously intended to inform the general public on a matter you would agree, would be or should have been of interest to them!

Mr. Linton followed with his open letter attempting to defend his utterances and characteristically, inserting personal attacks; to which Mr. Nassief responded, in what was a very entertaining letter, but even more importantly in a very respectful and civilized tone devoid of any rancor, seeking to correct what he perceived to be factual errors.

In fact Gregor ended his letter by inviting Linton to a scrabble contest which he even conceded to his adversary – before the fact! Such was the civility that characterized Nassief’s letter.

And your derogatory description of the exchanges as  “…public Peacock display of seemingly intellect and panache” and “..puerile to the point of shameful behavior by two prominent and political figures”, are definitely not a true characterization of the “conversation” which has been shared with readers – including you and I!

Now Mr. Cadette, what was so objectionable and shameful about the open conversation which sought to inform the wider public on such an important issue? In retrospect, don’t you think that you would have made a much more valuable contribution by commenting on the substantive matters raised in the string of “open letters”?.  It is not too late for you to make amends. And in that context, I would welcome an “open letter” from you – one that would seek to assist me and other Dominicans in critically analyzing the implications for Dominica, of Mr. Linton’s performance on CBS’s 60 Minutes.

Yours respectfully,

Rupert Sorhaindo (Your former Science teacher)

Copyright 2012 Dominica News Online, DURAVISION INC. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.

Disclaimer: The comments posted do not necessarily reflect the views of DominicaNewsOnline.com and its parent company or any individual staff member. All comments are posted subject to approval by DominicaNewsOnline.com. We never censor based on political or ideological points of view, but we do try to maintain a sensible balance between free speech and responsible moderating.

We will delete comments that:

  • contain any material which violates or infringes the rights of any person, are defamatory or harassing or are purely ad hominem attacks
  • a reasonable person would consider abusive or profane
  • contain material which violates or encourages others to violate any applicable law
  • promote prejudice or prejudicial hatred of any kind
  • refer to people arrested or charged with a crime as though they had been found guilty
  • contain links to "chain letters", pornographic or obscene movies or graphic images
  • are off-topic and/or excessively long

See our full comment/user policy/agreement.

79 Comments

  1. john paul
    January 18, 2017

    Sand in sweet rice! If only Mr.Sorhaindo had stuck to his original point of the open letter as a means of communicating in public I would say “Sweet Rice” but why did he throw sand in it by taking sides on the issue itself?

  2. Toto
    January 18, 2017

    don’t be envious mr. Sorhaindo. you will never make it to CBS.

  3. AP George
    January 17, 2017

    Mr Sorhaindo,
    I was in your science class along with Sylvester Cadette at SMA. I can’t understand why we live in such society where citizens are not free to express themselves as they see fit. I really don’t understand what is the basis of your accusation against Sylvester…. that he was flippant? Is that all? In other words, he should have come out strongly against Mr Linton… and defended the PM and/or the CBI program?

    THe current gov’t has to understand that being in office for 16 years with stagnated development will earn them critics along the way. THis is what happens in a free society – some will support you; others won’t. Lift the veil of secrecy & operate in sunshine and folks will be more understandable of its endevours.

    The PM and Mr Linton need to realize that with the advent of social media, dirty laundry will not always wash in the Roseau river… it will get outsourced to far corners of the world! So govern wisely and openly – and develop Dominica!

  4. :)
    January 17, 2017

    Open letters are the fad now? ahh….can I send one in as well?

  5. Micki
    January 17, 2017

    Hence why this country wont get very far. Too much time spent attacking and tearing down people, not enough time and effort on being productive. Worse yet you are despised in this land once people have the slightest sense that you are doing well. Stay in gutter crying sankee and youll be safe.

  6. freegid tree
    January 17, 2017

    “Big fish” swimming together will not hesitate to swallow little fish. Same thing here. Who has drinks with whom? :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

  7. Pres_Donald_Trump
    January 17, 2017

    Sohraindo is the mirror opposite of his brother de former doctor. Glad to see all the enemies of Dominica coming out after the CBS interview, trump will be good for them.

  8. Toto
    January 17, 2017

    Rather red than dead hey mr. Sorhaindo. well Sir, we have to die one day anyway and that does not scare me but I do not want to die without my dignity Sir and if I lose my life for what I believe in I can die in peace. Please I hope you understand and I am not the only one that thinks that way.

  9. Tjebe fort
    January 17, 2017

    Enough respect mr. Sorhaindo but when you stick your head above the parapet and challenge people you must expect missiles. If you cannot take criticism yourself don’t criticise other people in the first place. That is for little schoolchildren running to their mummies crying, and not a real man like you are supposed to be.

  10. FORKIT
    January 17, 2017

    My former teacher Mr. Sorhaindo. sokkoro commonly known as, you must be under an evil spell because in the eighties you seem like a fair person, i know you have been at the pm house and other ministers and from what you can see i know you had a thought that their salary cannot afford such comfort.
    .. but yet you will still dismiss it even if you can see his signature big and bold in your face.
    then you will know he is infact the most corrupt leader who ever passed through the caribbean.

    what could you possibly want or need so bad that you are blind toward the wrong in Dominica?.

    • PipWi
      January 17, 2017

      I use to have tremendous respect for that man he taught me in SMA and 6th form. He has become part of this machinery destroying Dominica. He is of the ” Cream” and dont give on crap about the poor people of Dominica. I have lost all respect for that man

    • Smdh
      January 17, 2017

      People don’t take loans anymore? The PM lived in a home provided for him for years….He didn’t drive his own vehicle, so he could not save?? Stupes. Ridiculous!

    • Concern citizen
      January 17, 2017

      FORKIT: Thanks for the comment it could not be better than that, it’s only blind bots that can’t see and understand what is going on in this country by the LABOR corrupt government

  11. Rupert Sorhaindo
    January 17, 2017

    I anticipated the barrage of personal attacks that would come by way of the “knee-jerk” comments in response to my objective analysis of Mr. Cadette’s perspective on the “open-letter” issue – which I sought to present in a civilized manner. However that did not deter me from expressing my views in public. I do not intend to allow myself to be intimidated by persons who make a habit of focusing on the messenger and not on the message!
    I am still left disappointed that Mr. Cadette has not agreed to share his reaction to the 60 Minutes programme with US through the medium of an “open letter”. However, in the spirit of civility, I agree to disagree with him on this matter, as well as on other matters when necessary.

    • NADINE
      January 17, 2017

      Honestly Sir, With all due respect this here is what is most important right now. You are clearly showing support to the rouge behaviours for reasons that may be obvious but who am i to say?

      HERE IS WHAT DOMINICANS WANT RIGHT NOW AND WE WILL NOT STOP UNTIL WE GET IT: https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/features/commentary/the-cbs-60-minutes-report-a-call-to-responsible-action/

    • Dominican
      January 17, 2017

      mr. Sorhaindo, you are of course entitled to your opinion and express the same but to dismiss all comments as personal attacks and knee-jerk reactions is belittling and not worthy of a man of your standing and intellect. Consider that some respondents may have carefully weighed your statement before commenting. Going public opens you up to criticism and comments, both negative and positive, which I would advise you to take in your stride.

    • VEX
      January 17, 2017

      Mr Sorhaindo you need to shut up like for real. Where was your voice denouncing child sexual abuse? Where was your voice denouncing violence against women? Where was your voice appealing to the hopeless young men in this country to cease from violent and illegal activities? I guess you shall continue to sing for your supper just like the many others

    • PipWi
      January 17, 2017

      I use to have tremendous respect for you when you taught me in SMA and 6th form. You have become part of this machinery destroying Dominica. You dont give one crap about the poor people of Dominica. I have lost all respect for you and how low you stoop. Guys like you who once stood for something now cater and condone corruption at the highest level. The likes of you and Nassief are the problem with Dominica that allows for the thievery of a nation. Dominica is at its worse – get it together Sorhaindo – its a sad way to face you mortality as you get older – pathetic

    • Kerdisha st.louis
      January 20, 2017

      Very well said.

  12. EnfantDiable
    January 17, 2017

    When the BELEFANT of KAICHE leaves Office Repert Sorhaindo is carded to succeed. Sing on Rupert Sing on..You will drink plenty more milk and eat plenty more cheese..

  13. Dominican
    January 17, 2017

    Well, well, well, even Rupert …….. This is a very sad day for Dominica. to live most of your life with lofty ideals and respect and to go out like this………

  14. John Jay
    January 17, 2017

    But who is Rupert Sorhaindo? Since this man left SMA what did he do for the country apart from being a senator I believe am not sure.
    This people just sit on a side and try to hop the next bus or should I say that they stayed in the shade to much that they are coming to get sun light.
    When all the sale of the passport has been exhorted I want to see what’s next. As the Governor of the ECCB said why create employment instead of paying back our debts, but am just hoping that Rupert Sorhaindo, Nassief and the rest will be on earth to see the calamity this country will be when this government takes it to the gutters. I say shame on you Rupert watch the bigger picture.

  15. Prophet
    January 17, 2017

    Rupert Sorhaindo is right. N one in their right mind would utter that type of Rubbish against their country. Lennox Linton destroyed the reputation of his country right there. The implications of his actions might manifest itself and then he will blame the Government that the CBI Program doesn’t work or investors are withdrawing assistance to Dominica. This program is transparent at all costs and sadly to say that it wasn’t since DFP and UWP. The Blue DEMON is out for Dominica.

    • VEX
      January 17, 2017

      The blue demon is right in front you. Remember who do you want Jesus or Judas? He portrays himself to be like God but is far for this. He calls on the name of God. Which God? Surely not the God I serve. The one who loves all. The one who stands for truth at all times. The God of justice and righteousness. One day you people will wake from your slumber. This isn’t about red or blue anymore. If you say and confess you love God you will do that which is right.

    • viewsexpressed
      January 17, 2017

      Rupert Sorhaindo is wrong. The bigger picture he has not raised and shared with us. I need a write up from our former teacher on the topic of transparency, accountability etc in public office, as he and Bro Germaine taught and instil on us at SMA to be fair, do not cheat at exams, science and you have to be focussed. Now, Sorhaindo is not focus n these principles we were taught at SMA and disciplined, with demits, net home or the cat -o -nine, cane. Those discipline Sorhaindo we want you to now instil on the inept Skerrit and his corrupt bunch of inept ministers and associates of this Labour party. The Dominican people continue to live in poverty and Sorhaindo is recognising this Labour party? This is madness!
      Sorhaindo, no matter what you write, how articulate we your students have marked you INF (insufficient) and out of touch, go do your research, your essay appears to be subjective and not objective and not reflect the reality in Dominica. This 2017 poverty.

    • Concern citizen
      January 17, 2017

      Man stop it U don’t even know what U are talking about, U are just a mentally deficient person, so stop UR. Idiotic support man, u are so daft that U can’t even see UR country is in reverse gar for 16 years

  16. Spirited debates
    January 17, 2017

    So good to read all these ideas on the subject and to see all the persons so far who have refused to remain silent but coming forward intellectually with their ideas and contributing to the conversation instead of throwing stones, bottles and blocking the roads.

    The Government needs to ensure it is transparent with the CBI program. The passports belong to the Country and no person should profit from its sales as if it were a product they personally own. There should be a maximum on the commissions received by any agent. Any agent who seem to become rich overnight should be investigated and dismissed as an agent, if found guilty of breaching the relevant laws. The Government should be the only party paying commissions to agents and agents should be forbidden from receiving any type of payment from other parties.

    Most Dominicans are vex because they feel that only a few Dominicans are benefitting from the sales of passports. These passport sales should result in increased jobs.

  17. anonymous
    January 17, 2017

    this situation demonstrates that this ruling class and their advocates are incapable of being creative about the economic development of our nation, in a country such as Dominica where natural resources are abundant, why depend solely on the sale of citizenship in order to help the economy and yet the country has seen any tangible returns. we are still plagued with high migration; a population which has been constantly decreasing; plus high levels of unemployment. so how has all this contributed to the socio-economic development us as a nation? but still these so called patriotic men come and stand behind the leader who has brought this upon us.

  18. Jonathan St Jean
    January 16, 2017

    Rupert …….. I thought that you were a patriot to be looked up to.I’m hoping that you will recover from your blind loyalty to the almighty dollar and Skerritt and use your intellect to help save Dominica and the region from the intense scrutiny that the US Will put Caricom passport holders through.The governor of the central bank has joined the call for transparency yet you continue to blame Lennox.The US government,the world Bank and others have warned about the over reliance on this goose before yet all you can do is blame Lennox.Look at the number of Dominica diplomats who gave run afoul of the law, don’t you think that some course correction is in order?Look at the state of the economy, don’t you think that some course correction is in order?My God it looks like reason has lost it’s way or you guys have lost your reason

  19. Sorhaindo has Surrendered to Shame
    January 16, 2017

    As a young man I knew Sorhaindo as an advocate of democracy and good governance. Today he has become one more wretched participant in the Supper Time Singers now in concert at the Financial Center. Dominica is a failed state, a nation so bankrupt of leadership that passport sales are proudly heralded as the the salvation of the nation, though we have rich soil, many waters, a 200 economic zone seaward and brilliant minds all over the world that are not tapped. What Sorhaindo and Massa Scary have done is fooled the masses with trinkets and red shirts, with highly paid bands and foreign artist at election time plus airlifted voters who prostitute themselves . A once proud nation is now mired in crime and thievery and public servants have to agree with everything evil government does to keep their jobs. Shame on you Sorhaindo. Your legacy of wisdom is now trash because you have surrendered. Cadette 4th this is not about you but the evil that men do and expect acceptance.

  20. Way to go!
    January 16, 2017

    Good job Mr. Octagonal!

    • Me
      January 17, 2017

      He has gone hexagonal, in other words nuts!

  21. cornered and afraid
    January 16, 2017

    What a Dominica !!!!! Those like Rupert Sorhaindo, who people told us was a good role model are displaying their inherent selfish, blind, partisan posture.

    All of them, who support Govt, in its corruption, SELLING OF OUR PASSPORTS, ordinary and diplomatic, (much irrefutable evidence to show), SELLING of our DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY, will come out and expose themselves and show the world who are the real destructive voices as regards Dominica.

    Passport selling is the best economic initiative Dominica has seen? Are you CRAZY Rupert? Are you going out of your mind? Too much pressure? . The PASSPORTS FOR CASH scheme, is a major security Terrorism concern for many countries. WICKED

  22. %
    January 16, 2017

    These two guys are SIX of one half a dozen of the other..This passport selling scheme is the Caribbeans biggest mess!!!

  23. Shameless
    January 16, 2017

    I see Soakorow making a public pitch for his ambassadorship papa. Come on Soaks, what happen to the Soakoro that taught me and Cadette at the very best learning institution on island SMA (Smartest Men Alive)? You instilled in me a sense on pride and nationalism that governs my life today so where has that gone? Quit while you are ahead and break away from these evil doers. Shame on you sir! :twisted:

    Always Assertive! :twisted:

  24. Not A Hypocrite
    January 16, 2017

    Nice try Mr. Sorhaindo, but the only thing you achieved with this open letter is to expose your biases and allegiance. Hmmm, 21 years later, and “De Moomoo” talking again. Eh beh look kix…Sing, Soks, Sing. Looks like you just give a calypsonian de lyrics for another road march tune.

    I got your back Cadette. I didn’t mop your bakes at recess for nothing…lol

  25. Chad George
    January 16, 2017

    Sohraindo what part of cbs was a one sided view, is your IQ to low to understand the Americans are concerned about
    the global security of the world, just google Isis passport threat, go to http://www.google.com, type in Isis passport
    threat in the space and click search, after click on the first blue link u see then read it, so u can apologize to cadette in
    your next letter.

  26. Horton G
    January 16, 2017

    By reading the comments it is an understatement to say that some believe only those who support
    The UWP have a right to express their views and others should not! yet we speak of democracy or lack of. To think anyone can go on an international news organization and say whatever they want, provide no proof of what they say, paint the country and our Prime Minister in the worst possible light, misrepresent himself and yet some people believe no one should point out to him that he was wrong and wronged his country. And his supporters clap and says well done.

    I listen to Parliament I’ve heard the Prime Minister and others in and out of Parliament explained the CBI program numerous times yet the Leader of the Opposition said in an international interview that the Prime Minister does not answer questions . How is it ordinary Dominicans hear when the PM talks of the program but not the Leader of the Opposition?

    Who is the chairman of the accounts committee?

  27. Rupert, it is aid fools rush in where Angels Fear To Thread! It is also a known fact; it is better for someone to remain mute, not opening his mouth, exposing his/her stupidity and ignorance, hence people will not know they are stupid (sot).

    I regret you had to site Lennox in your silly rhetoric. The fact you condone the sale of Dominica passports, as “one of the most promising revenue generating mechanisms being used by Dominica” proves how ignorant you truly are!

    The sale of passport is not an industry employing the poor and unemployed youth in the streets, it is not a sustainable industry: Indeed a few chosen, those sells the product became millions, and that is all we see thus far, along with certain friends of Skerrit getting millions of free dollars in a scheme to rip off the treasury. We do not know if the recipients who got their millions to build so called hotels, got a grant or a loan, what about asking Skerrit about.

    You are simple another hypocritical puppet,…

    • Continue:

      You are simple another hypocritical puppet, Argue with Gregor if wish, however exempted Lennox from crap, which makes no sense; if you wish to join that idiot Gregor in his writing contest, be an as you are and compete with him, but I suggest your stupid rhetoric has nothing to do with Lennox and the interview with CBS.

      With this fifteen minuets of fame DNO affords you to runoff your mouth, you should have used it to suggest alternatives to the jobless crisis on the rather than wallowing in the hogwash you have sunk into! If you wish to become a passport sales man, all you have to do ask Skerrit how low you stoop , kiss his behind, and he will appoint you a passport salesman!

  28. rasta
    January 16, 2017

    Rupert Sorendo: Are you looking for a diplomatic passport? was it only linton who spoke on CBS 60 minutes?
    You guys seem to give the impression that the Americans did’nt know anything before Linton spoke for about 3minutes. The world now is a global village and what is happening down here is know everywhere around the world . I never heard your voice when skerrit used the same CBI money and give bajans 18 million to build a bridge. Teacher Sorendo(since this makes you feel great) is that good financial prudence? I never heard your voice when Tony, on record, said the 400 million collected was used for campaign. I never heard your voice when the opposition disclosed that 2014 election Labor party spent 33 million dollars. I never heard your voice when the opposition requested info with regards to the discrepancy in actual revenue and what was presented in the house. IS the MOUMOU now being to talk. Can a country survive on passport sales? !!!!

  29. dissident
    January 16, 2017

    Why you come in that for?
    Is this an open letter to?

    I remember what you encourage against a laborite Director of the technical college in the 90’s. When the technical college students were disallowed the benefits of the 6th form college namely: uniforms, school id, teachers(the laborite Director used to fill in), leaking roofs, broken furniture and no computers.

    You helped to cut people short then.
    Doh try dat!

  30. DA needs cardiac arrest
    January 16, 2017

    All these letters to DNO are ridiculous. Grow Up!!!! Dominica is sinking and all these big men doing is having personal debates via letters. Pure BS in motion…

  31. Dr. Petrie Almond, D.Litt.
    January 16, 2017

    Rupert, you miss the point totally and gave the game away when you reminded Mr. Cadette that you were his former science teacher.

    No doubt as his science teacher you had instilled in his young and open mind that the earth is a ball spinning around at 1000 miles an hour, with us and the oceans and land stuck to it by a ‘theory’ of gravity and travelling around the sun at 19 miles per second – a sun too which is travelling around the galaxy at 450,000 miles an hour. And despite that there is no breeze which we can feel on earth?????

    Well I can understand now why him and many others may choose to give you the finger.

    Rupert, we all know that CBI is rotten to its core:-

    1) it is intended to make the runners of it rich
    2) it is intended to CULL out resident Dominicans
    3) it is NOT transparent.

    The only way it can be saved is first for CBI’s to have NO vote; secondly for each resident (not CBI) dominican to be able to sell passports and 100% transparency to obtain.

  32. %
    January 16, 2017

    After Sorhaindo,Nassief and Tony,more will still come out of hiding like TOO LOO LOOS!!!..Let me COMMEND Honourable Linton the patriot for his appearance on the perogramme,and the TRUTHFULNESS with which he spoke…HE CERTAINLY REPRESENTED ME and many others while Sohraindo,Tony,Skerrit and others were hiding.. For this he is already my 2017 MAN OF THE YEAR!!We live in a SOO TE WER DOMINICA where many people we looked up to really had ZERO moral character,but honourable Linton has been,what we have always known him to be..I thrash this harangue by Sorhaindi,and I hardly read Cardettes blogg,since he is Moo Moo on so many matters germane to the countrys development..WELLDONE LINTON..The others can clench their fists if they want too!!

  33. Hope
    January 16, 2017

    I am ashamed, so many people want to write on this comment made by Hon. Linton. No one see it right to write on the many statements and issues on radio programmes . To mention crimes, drug, abuse especially sexual abuse, discrimination on share of country wealth e.g. community development, school dropout etc. I could go on and on. Stop the hate letters and division move on to build Dominica in love and unity.

  34. Frank Talker
    January 16, 2017

    I didn’t read Cadette’s commentary on the CBI issue between Linton & Nassief; I didn’t even see the article. But I had an urge to go to press on what I thought was a waste of time by Matt Peltier to get the two men to sit in studio and exchange “kool pwen”. You see, in my view, both men are fairly correct in what they said. Linton, as a political figure, must be given some “space” and “flexibility’ to make public utterances as part of his representation of minorities. We all know that to get information from the State is a most challenging task. An age-old strategy is to “fish” out information from those who have it. Linton in fact did his job as a politician. Rosie Douglas did it too when he attacked the UWP over alleged bobol – a claim yet to be proven.
    Nassief, from a private sector perspective saw the monetary hurt which could result from Linton’s utterances, and spoke to those fears. He too is correct. The back-and-forth had no winner; it should not even…

    • Frank Talker
      January 16, 2017

      …make news. There was nothing to be gained by bringing the two men together for a fight.
      What did catch my attention was Rupert Sorhaindo’s article above. He claimed to have “lost” a lot of respect for his former student who, until now, seemed to have been speaking and writing in the language of “soks.” I too am a former student of “Soks”, and I would never have speculated that Sorhaindo would one day be a force multiplier for the DLP. The man has prostrated himself before Skerrit to the extent that Sorhaindo is now taking issue with a UN employee who believes that the Linton/Nassief debate on the little-understood CBI, added no value to public consumption. We are non-the-wiser following the “open letters.” I held the same conviction with Cadette.

  35. Canawie
    January 16, 2017

    It is a shame to see and hear people like Ruppert, a teacher that was well respected up til today, to lend his voice in supporting the government in prostituting our sovereignty. I have absolutely no respect for you and your likes. You as a teacher taught morality. What is wrong with you guys, for a dollar you will destroy the fabric of our society. Shame on YOU. I am a Shame of calling myself your student. That what you would stoop too. You have to comment for you to belong. Dame Eugenia must be turning in her grave.

    • %
      January 16, 2017

      There are still others to come!!That is Dominican society in 2017..SOO TE WER!

    • bro
      January 16, 2017

      so are you against the CBI program- or not? That’s what is confusing, the CBI is prostituting our sovereignty only because the DLP is running the program. Lennox isn’t against the program, if you are state so.

  36. viewsexpressed
    January 16, 2017

    “Mr. Linton appeared on international television and contributed to and even reinforced the very negative image portrayed by the host of the 60 Minutes”! Really Sorhaindo. We want to know stuff of Dominica but kept away from us by this corrupt Skerrit lead government. Where is your loyalty.
    Sorhaindo, wake up. I will advise you with you eloquence in writing that you do a write up on the current concerns of our social and economic development or lack off. We students need jobs, not drugs, You are an educationalist, a science teacher and if after all of these years you are unable to offer to your students and people of Dominica a scientific analysis of our lack of social development in Dominica then I do not know who I should turn to, certainly not Skerrit nor his band . The minute we ask for transparency and accountability, like you instil in us at SMA, we expect you to elevate your political debate to this topic to have upcoming students wishing to stay in…

  37. Vaffanculo_PM
    January 16, 2017

    Rupert Sorhaindo (Your former Science teacher) Why is this so personal? What happen cadette cannot have a view of his own? Dominica is not Cuba.

  38. SN
    January 16, 2017

    Mr. Sorhaindo seems to be proud passports have been made a trade commodity when he says this is one of “the most promising revenue generating mechanisms” employed by the governments involved. While there is a need, and benefits from, a CBI program, in its present form, no one can truly call this a CBI program because individuals are not required to operate a business for any period of time to get the passport. The program is just a passport sales program; nothing more, nothing less.

  39. Shaka Zulu
    January 16, 2017

    I am loving this. There should be a debate society with all of you folks meeting to discuss. Maybe DNO and Q95 or DBS should have a live intellectual debate night where you guys could show the public what civil debate among friends with different opinions is all about. The current Parliamentarians are not doing a very good job. By the way Sorhaindo every opinion you do not have to agree with. Seems like you agree with Sylvester on most occasions except this one. Damage as they said is already done time to move forward on getting ideas and opinions for better future stop beating a dead horse.

  40. Looking
    January 16, 2017

    Dear. Mr. Sylvester
    Welcome to the boxing ring :-D
    As you can well see, Thou shall not criticize the present regime. In the ring you just take what you get the goodies and the blows. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you. This is the next level we have allowed our country to reach. Because of greed and turning a blind eye to what is going on. Its not an easy road. I am sorry for those who depend on the system for their daily bread. Mr. Sylvester only those who are independent financially can speak or else you “suck salt” Many turn a blind eye but this is the reality. Go to the poorest communities, most of us here are from better off communities from the middle to upper class. In these poor countries they are controlled like “Robots” Everything is for a time….

    • viewsexpressed
      January 16, 2017

      Yes, agreed, Shame on Mr Rupert Sorhaindo, shame indeed, never expected these educated guys to stoop so low Fr what, really for what?

      • TS Erika
        January 16, 2017

        these people are not educated. u dont get such utterances from educated people. they were just placed in positions before because of their family name and skin colour

  41. JBaptiste
    January 16, 2017

    All of this back and forth could have been avoided had the PM appeared on CBS. He refused, knowing that he could not defend the indefensible .Mapwis would not have work either because he doesn’t have any dirt on Kroft. And his audience not as daft.
    Also, CBI should only be used as a quick fix to revamp existing industries but we have made it the main revenue for us. Yet no one sees the benefits except some well connected agents . I wonder how Dominica got by 25 years ago.

    • Driver
      January 16, 2017

      25 years ago, there was the banana industry which Dame Eugenia was demonized for predicting its collapse and farmers, 25 years ago, worked a little more diligently because Govt. was not yet promising them things that they couldn’t deliver. Don’t forget, Freedom Party was still in Office

  42. Stoney
    January 16, 2017

    Folks in Dominica including the former education Minister dislike free thinking in Dominica
    these folks are so dam wicked u won’t imagine…

    all the sectors in dominica are down nothing exporting poverty on the increase…

    i wish one of the Volcanoes would erupt in Dominica….

    that’s how evil their policy makers are, milking the cow then smiling to the folks in the rural areas with a free halve loaves of bread and bush rum….fire bon dem wicked folks..

    • Driver
      January 16, 2017

      Which of the volcanoes? The cricket team? Keep your wish for yourself. Erupt if you want

    • Driver
      January 16, 2017

      Keep you wish for the erupting Volcano

    • dayandnight vision
      January 17, 2017

      STONEY I don’t know if you live n Dominica or not, or if you have relatives here. just to let you know, tho that while you are free to voice your opinion, one sentence in your post really bothered me.
      Will the volcano erupt only on one set of Dominicans?
      And DNO please be rational in what you publish

  43. Iamanidiot
    January 16, 2017

    Alas Cadette…Left SMA so many years ago…yet you still getting schooled.

    • Sylvester Cadette
      January 16, 2017

      :) :) Life Long Learning Bro. :-D I love listening to my Elders even if though this time my suggestions of civility stands over and above this Open Letter.

      • AP George
        January 17, 2017

        Syl, Hold on strong bro. We were in Mr. Sorhaindo’s class together. Apparently, by his reference to ‘your science teacher’ doesn’t seem to think you can now think independently outside the classroom and out this turmoiled political box.

        Has Dominica now become a Trump State, where is you disagree, you are lambasted, criticized, victimized and demonized. One thing is for sure, dictators and narcissists cannot tolerate criticism and dissent.

  44. Bush lawyer
    January 16, 2017

    You looked more like a psychology teacher writing that letter. Bashing linton while praising nasief.. Nice try..wonder what you singing for..

    • Jerry
      January 17, 2017

      Bush Lawyer

      He is singing for his sumptuous supper as they all do, whilst the rest of us are sucking salt’

  45. Bronx,NY
    January 16, 2017

    But wait a min nah, why all that fuss about passport sales eh?

    did the island of Dominica fall from the sky or just emerge?

    i honestly don’t get it..so in other words there is a sea of passport buyers large and deep Like the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans out there? i just don’t get it period.
    sad that so call educated folks speak some much rubbish…i do want that CBI program Dead….as it doesn’t benefit Dominicans in the majority…which sector has excelled from it..

    why isn’t the Public servants given a increase or a bonus at Xmas time for Dec, as did in St.Kitts…..this is free non taxable easy money to fool the dunce Dominicans at election times with big bands free food and red clothes….

    want this Program dusted and done fully…it’s a nightmare facing Dominica, as their is NO TRANSPARENCY…everyone know that……how many citizens have been sold Dominican Passport..is it 20,000 or 40,000, these are the issues…

    but the educated fools don’t care!

    • Driver
      January 16, 2017

      What are we bashing here? Rupie’s education or his ideas?

  46. Titiwi
    January 16, 2017

    Mr. Sorhaindo, you are doing exactly what you are accusing other of. Frankly, it would have been better to let matters rest without fanning the flames even further. Disappointed in you Sir. You would not want to stand accused of partisanship, would you? Sometimes silence is indeed golden and measure of mature wisdom.

  47. January 16, 2017

    Dominican isn’t ready to take over their Island , this administration is doing whatever they want and getting a PLUS from the people . Dominica is on remote control .

  48. Sylvester Cadette
    January 16, 2017

    Greets For the New Year Mr. Sorhaindo. First, thanks much for contributing greatly to my education (Integrated Science Room 101) during my time at SMA (1978-1980) and as Head of CDCC while I was there (1983-1985).
    :) :) I note that you missed the point and totally misinterpreted me. In both Gentlemen’s initial Open Correspondences I read and tried to understand their perspectives (not myself being privy to all the facts) and had not commented because I understood an “Open Letter” in exactly the context you have outlined. NOTE I DID NOT CONDEMN THEM FOR HIGHLIGHTING ISSUES FROM THEIR PERSPECTIVES.
    It is the unedifying approach that was highlighted of both individuals. The root problem for Dominica over many years is not that we are short on ideas or good policies or projects but because we are always embroiled in controversies, petty politicking for one side or the other and failing to address “root cause” issues. The mode used in Dominica On BOTH political sides is not

    • Sylvester Cadette
      January 16, 2017

      Contd. Mr. Sorhaindo, The mode used in Dominica On BOTH political sides is not at all educational and edifying in many instances and seem only to polarize. It is why I told them in my post to stop the “Public Peacock Display” and discuss on a higher plane. Surely you are not saying I should not ask people to be civil in their discuss – surely you are not saying that. The level of discuss on ALL SIDES (with no exception) have degenerated to petty political bickering.

      You would have noticed I told them “…banter if you must” and that “…if you may hold on to your position if you think its principled but do it in grace…”.
      Surely, to advice such CANNOT be wrong, or is it?

      On a lighter note, I wish we could have a private discussion on this as space here would not allow for a expressing all thought and I would not escalate this into writing an OPEN LETTER :-D :-D :-D . I look forward to a cordial discussion. Surely you ought to know me better. :-D :-D
      Success for the week and…

      • Sylvester Cadette
        January 16, 2017

        SAM Raphael actually shown how to address these issues. with poise, concise information and recommendations. It is this non-polarizing approach that I was calling for. :) :)

      • binsley
        January 16, 2017

        Grow up, you are not a kid at home., this story is domestic, not personal, we are taught to read and speak in public and write essays for the said reason
        this issue needs to be odiscussed out in the public, because the opposition is requesting just that
        We do not need a summit between you and Mr Sohraindo, or Clinton \nd Nassief ok we need it in the media, so easy yourself Cadeete

      • January 16, 2017

        Agree to dis agree, Can we all get along? We going Down slowly, in the pit of do as i say, but not as i do. Send me a letter too. Only in Dominica. Sometimes i pray for a miracle.

      • viewsexpressed
        January 16, 2017

        Cadette, you are not the issue. Those educationalist who are so aligned are so blind and no longer objective like we were taught at SMA. These were the social and political stalwarts who stood up in the 70`s and 80`s that got Mamo and her Freedom Party, like Sorhaindo in politics. He and others were very, extremely critical of the Patrick John regime now he and others, so called …….. wish to shut up and silence us, the students of the 70`s ad 80`s . Sorhaindo you have taught well, you now need to exercise openly that philosophy you taught us of openness, honesty and not be a blind loyalist to any corrupt regime, for example, starring in the face this Labour government. the worse Dominica has seen. Rupert, they are corrupt, invented the Red Clinic, reduced poor desperate Dominicans to begging. Rupert, that is what you should research, go around the island and see the poverty that Dominicans live in. Even closer , go to Silver Lake, Gutter, Tarrish Pit and you will be touched.

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

:) :-D :wink: :( 8-O :lol: :-| :cry: 8) :-? :-P :-x :?: :oops: :twisted: :mrgreen: more »

 characters available