Blackmoore challenges Tenure-of-Office-of-Prime Minister Bill

Blackmoore said people should not be deprived of the right to vote for a candidate of their choice (File photo)
Blackmoore said people should not be deprived of the right to vote for a candidate of their choice (File photo)

Justice Minister, Rayburn Blackmoore, has expressed his belief that there should be no limit on the amount of time persons be allowed to spend as elected representatives in parliament.

Speaking on DBS’s ‘Talking Point’, on Monday morning, Blackmoore stated that voters should be allowed to elect persons for as long as they feel that those elected meet their expectations.

“People have a right to decide who they want to represent them. And, as long as the person who is running for re-election has performed, and has been able to meet their expectations, and has been able to serve his constituency well, I think it is an added plus to the whole democratic process…,” he said.

He added, “I think that you should never deprive people of the right to vote for a candidate of their choice.”

Similarly, Blackmoore noted that while the idea of a term limit on an individual in the office of Prime Minister is a “useful argument,” the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity.”

The remark was made in response to a recent statement by the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Timothy Harris, in which Harris promoted the island’s recent legislation to impose two term limits on anyone holding the position of Prime Minister, as a model for other Caribbean countries.

The Dominica Labour Party has won four consecutive general elections over the last fifteen years and has been under the leadership of Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit for the last twelve consecutive years.

According to an article published on Caribbean360.com, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Team Unity administration recently put forward a bill proposing two five-year terms as the maximum time one can serve in the position of a Prime Minister.

Under the Tenure of Office of Prime Minister Bill, 2015 “A person who is appointed Prime Minister under the Constitution shall, subject to subsection (2) of this section, hold office for a term of five years”; and “A person shall not be appointed to hold office as Prime Minister for more than two terms as prescribed by this section.”

Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Timothy Harris, said the decision is an important disciplining mechanism, which is vital to succession planning.

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95 Comments

  1. OldMercs
    August 20, 2016

    President Robert Mugabe would like Mr Blackmoore’s email address or phone number if anyone can help

  2. Tell the Facts
    August 19, 2016

    There is a lot to do for a country. Two terms may not be enough, what with the type of weather Dominica could get to do all what has to be done. You know the slow process and financial-wise.
    I do not see why it should be restricted to only two terms.
    You copycat the US too much. Canada is close to the US. They are allies. Canada does not have that restriction of two terms, at least for now. From what I know, there is no such talk of decreasing the terms.

  3. OldMercs
    August 18, 2016

    President Robert Mugabe would like Mr Blackmoore’s email address or phone number if anyone can help

  4. skepticalone
    August 18, 2016

    Well well well what a surprise, “No term limits” said the dictators!

  5. DomiChina
    August 17, 2016

    Mr.. Blackmore, whilst what you are saying in relation to persons who vote for people to represent them is true, the people who voted never voted a Prime Minister. The people wants you to represent them, they never said you should be the minister of justice or that one should be trade minister or this one health minister. half of you in this parliament don’t seem to understand the simple English terms, let alone to teach it to others. The article did not say the whole government should spend this term or that term, it speaks about the office of PM, and IF PM Skerrit thinks he is the only person capable, he is too pompous and needs to rethink. and if you Mr Blackmore think the same, you are just trying to hold on to your feeble seat.
    You people continue to amaze me.

  6. Tell the Facts
    August 16, 2016

    Mr. Blackmoore is correct. Note: “Talents for this position is limited.”
    Right now, I do not see nor foresee a new suitable candidate for PM who will serve nationals appropriately.
    Dominica should not copy the PM of St. Kitts and Nevis. Let Dominicans make their own decision whom to vote for and not by what an outside politician decides. It is his country. He is in power. He can do as he please but he should not expect other countries to copy him.

    • %
      August 17, 2016

      Well that is a crying shame on Skerrit,you and his other slaves, if after all these years you cannot see a successor to Skerrits bad,inept,incompetent ,insultive and undemocratic rule…That’s why the people must increase the pressure on him…Let him get out and let a competent leader outside of this evil and corrupt DLP replace him…..NO WONDER YOU ALL WERE SAYING,”If not Skerrit,then who”..Shame on you and your balderdash!

      • Tell the Facts
        August 17, 2016

        All you can see is only one way. You see it one way others see it another way. Therefore, accord them their freedom of speech as you expect others to accord you same. You lack peacefulness and to generate same to others.
        Even though you support another Party, no need to hate the other and project hatred. You are harming yourself.
        “Be careful what you want and ask for.” It may be a hanger for your jacket.” There will be much grumbling, criticizing and wailing. You will see and experience it in time.

    • viewsexpressed
      August 17, 2016

      Rubbish. I thought you own some level of intelligence to be analyse the bigger picture rather than being a boom boom fly. It is our business and it has merits for someone to serve in office for only two terms. what we see happening under your eyes for 15 years with this inept PM and Scare-roo and the corrupt DLP government we do not want it to happen again. This type of doctored leadership and corrupt government must never surface in Dominica again after this band of bandits depart from office. And we want them out ASP, they are a disaster to country, to people and to development. Adius and good bye, failed PM, politicians.

      • Tell the Facts
        August 17, 2016

        I do not follow haters and narrow-minded people, those who never cease to criticize. I thought you were aware of that.
        One day you will eat your words. Wait and see.

      • Tell the Facts
        August 19, 2016

        You expect me to think as you and agree with you? I do not even know you. You support your favorite Party. This is your choice. I support the one I favor. This is my choice.
        Allow people their views as they allow you yours. This is having respect for others which should be one of the Christian marks and virtue. Intelligent people will also practice it.

  7. Massacre
    August 16, 2016

    Diversity breeds success!
    Those political camouflage guys we have posing as leaders in our society most realize that these laws were put there by the British so that they would remain in control of us for eternity.
    These are the same guys who always vent against pass rulers , like in the case of Melville Hall and P.M.H as examples. So now it is rather hypocritical of them to use those same people laws when it benefits them.
    If you visit any of the islands that have changed leaders frequently you will notice how developed thay are compared to broken Dominica who believe that their leader was sent from above. Silly idea.
    A man who knows he only has two terms to do his job will work harder to prove his worth and won’t become complacent. St.Kitts have international flights !!

    • viewsexpressed
      August 17, 2016

      Well said……..Thanks

    • weypapa/mama
      August 17, 2016

      Thank you Massacre……. but your advice to fools will not be heeded. :twisted:

  8. August 16, 2016

    Matt (Q95) since DNO do not want to post comments that are not offensive in any way I would say that you play the speech of the President of the United State in Africa about those stay in power to long so the people can hear it, because it sums it up very nicely.

  9. Beware of dictatorship trends
    August 16, 2016

    Increased advocacy and fight for our RIGHTS as regards ELECTORAL REFORM is even more necessary. Our lovely Dominica can ill-afford other elections that are not FREE and FAIR. The Dominican public have been pleading for changes to be made to the electoral process, cleaning of the bloated Voters’ list, providing Voter ID cards, and Campaign Financing. The Skerritt DLP Gov’t has shown a stubbornness, a reluctance, to implement those important changes, to ensure democracy is at work and that future elections are not stolen.

    Those who display a Dictatorship state of mind and modus operandi not in terms. Until death do us part , absolute power, until………… Such statements are in sync with dictatorship line of thinking.

    Beware, my people, because those are signs. if in public, the Minister of National Security and others of his ilk could spew kind of thinking of absolute power, power through bad elections, bribery, disrespect for electoral Laws, BEWARE.
    .

  10. ArAb
    August 16, 2016

    Two terms is rather short. Term one could be a clean up campaign and term two start of investments. My opinion is that no one should be the PM for no more than three (3) terms. That allows one who is doing a good job to make an impact on the country in 15 years and also allows the country not to fall into a state of autocratic leadership.

  11. Only the Strong Survive
    August 16, 2016

    Love the hair cut ,Im going to get one just like it, some Dominicans are a set of haters,thats why they will never rise.

  12. Nacinimod
    August 16, 2016

    Term limits have good and bad points but that decision should not in the hands of career politicians. It should be a referendum placed on the ballot and voted on by the citizenry at large.

  13. Frank Talker
    August 16, 2016

    I think both arguments make much sense. The way forward on this is to revise the arguments to the extent we come up with a single model with which scowcases talent, governance, security, discipline, etc, etc..

  14. Oil of Ojas
    August 16, 2016

    If it can work in St. Kitts and Nevis it can jolly well work here.

    “less talent and less diversity” my eye! Stupes!

    Every time these politicians come on air talking their foolishness that does just put me in a bad mood for the rest of the day. Rayburn, Dominica belongs to ALL of us! Not just a chosen few… :twisted: :twisted:

  15. Major56
    August 16, 2016

    “Less Talent?!! 8-O

    As someone with a Bachelor’s degree I’m taking offense at those two little words! What does he mean less talent??

    As have been seen time and time again, the people who have so far offered themselves up to serve in Government sometimes have not even completed high school, far more for a four year college.

    So Blackmoore, this nonsense you’re spouting “less talent” is just that. Nonsense.

    Dominica is not all you ‘jardeh patat’ to do what all you want!

  16. Music Producer
    August 16, 2016

    If you did not know what double speak is, now you know after reading this article. These guys are so full of themselves.

    :…there should be no limit on the amount of time persons be allowed to spend as elected representatives in parliament.”

    “I think it is an added plus to the whole democratic process…,”

    You can’t really “add” anything to Democracy, now, can you?

  17. analy thomas
    August 16, 2016

    Every product has an expiry date. There is a time for everything under the sun. A time to live, a time to die, a time to mourn a time to celebrate…… So do our ideas. I believe that there are capable bodies in Dominica who have new Ideas and talent and have the capacity to truly build this Island! The problem is that most of our people do not see very far ahead and settle for today. We don’t need much here to get to the next level. Our timing is what is important. For example, An up to date hospital should have been built before the introduction of a state house!
    We do not have to be political about everything but we must practice democracy! We need to be open!

    • Tell the Facts
      August 19, 2016

      A product is not a human being; not a politician.

  18. Ex da lawman
    August 16, 2016

    Is that a warning that you guys have no intention of giving up power? Op en your eyes people. I know you Blackmore. Very well. We are ex course mates. You will do anything to hold onto power. Remember we are all a heart beat away from being nothing. You and i know the police is not capable of handling multiple problems at the same time. What are you guys hiding that you dont want to give up power?

  19. Favoured
    August 16, 2016

    Blackmore can’t say differently else he will sacked. Most toe the line and so to all the others. After 34 years of so called independence we still do not have independent minds and thought. Blackmore you and Skerrit can stay t here for life everlasting and by all means possible.. Poor Dominica

  20. Iamanidiot
    August 16, 2016

    I actually think it’s a good idea. Because we won’t look at the government like it’s our father’s estate we want to run for life. Then we won’t have to “accept bribes” or “do favors” because we want another vote. No, we do our best, we serve for X amount of years? then we pass the mantle.

    Nothing like…we need to send a truckload of materials here because we want to win that constituency.

    But…I wouldnt expect anything less from Blackmore.

  21. papa
    August 16, 2016

    My my 12 yrs what a shame the country get worse all the pm do is fool them with 50 box country in a bad state

  22. Allison
    August 16, 2016

    This former policeman’s point of view is soo stupid he does not even know understand why he is saying.

  23. viewsexpressed
    August 16, 2016

    Bokassa abused his powers & after serving many years changed country status to one of a monarchy and used the states GDP for the ceremonial lavish party.
    In Zimbabwe Mugabe at 94, after 40 years in power continues. Haiti`s Papa & Baby Doc abused their positions for years droving Haiti to severe poverty. The Docs lived in luxury in a palace sending crumbs of handout to their subjects. In Dominica we have seen and witnessed numerous devious means in staying in power, from airline flights, buying subjects to run and the famous infamous Red Clinic where you patronize vulnerable people to vote.
    Two terms is sufficient and in addition no young immature person should be Prime Mininster under 45 years old. Anyone younger than that is a disaster waiting to happen as we see now in Dominica & Haiti are doomed for a long time because of Scareit and the Docs.. Ductored Scareit must go now and never hold high office again. No Blackmore Skerro must go, has been a danger to Dominica…

  24. Titiwi
    August 16, 2016

    Mr. Blackmoore is entitled to his views but to me they are demeaning and belittling us as a country, that asserted its right to be an independent democracy. We want to exercise that democracy to its fullest and not be treated as an immature child under the rule of a paterfamilias, benign or otherwise,who knows best and does not countenance dissent.
    It is exactly to discourage rulers from getting addicted to power and hang on to it, even manipulating, changing or dismissing the constitution, that the founders of of the U.S.A., and other democratic nations instituted a time limit.
    The only constant in life is change and I welcome it, less we stagnate and stultify. It is the lifeblood of progress and development and I welcome it. Mr. Harris is a wise man, who understands this.

  25. August 16, 2016

    Limited tenure in the US has led to the possibility of the capable and intelligent Obama being replaced by the unqualified and unsuitable Trump! So sad. What they wouldn’t give to have had the possibility of a third Obama Term. If the democratic process is working properly then unlimited tenure should be good for the country. However limited tenure is a safety measure and helps to avoid the development of a corrupt totalitarian regime. I think Zimbabwe must be full of people praying for Mugabe to die!

    • Dominican
      August 17, 2016

      Tina,
      – Donald Trump has not been elected to the Presidency of the U.S.A. yet.
      – Should he be elected it would be with the support of the majority of American voters. That is their choice, even though it would not be mine.
      – Thank God the U.SA. has a two term limit so that he (…or she) must step down, even if the electorate would want them to stay on. ( …that is if someone like Trump does not start meddling with legislation and changes the rules enabling to claim that the people want him, or God forbid, he was chosen by divine intervention).

    • I am Dominican are you?
      August 18, 2016

      tina alexander, when that piece of trash ian smith and his ilk was illegally occupying Zimbabwe did you wish that he was dead? Like you care so much about the people of Zimbabwe, with all your propaganda
      and biasness. God alone knows what you are actually doing in Dominica.

  26. Lang Mama
    August 16, 2016

    Whst else can Blackmore say other than Skerrit fir life.

  27. anonymous2
    August 16, 2016

    What else would one expect from the PM in waiting. He wants to stay in as long as possible too.

  28. Jaime Lewis
    August 15, 2016

    Is the Minister serious? In less developed countries there is less talent and less diversity? What an absurd assertion. Does the Minister mean that only one man has the abilities to serve as Prime Minister? This is utter rubbish!

  29. Best I stay America and spoil my visa
    August 15, 2016

    Of course he must say that because if skerrit goes down all of them goes down and is DEn all their dirty doings will be reviled

    • Best I stay America and spoil my visa
      August 15, 2016

      Revealed

  30. A Doubting Thomas In Solidarity
    August 15, 2016

    Thank you Honourable Blackmoore, I totally agree whats more, I believe only those who see their chance of winning slim to none come up with this theory and which does not apply to Dominica. Our Constitution does not limit the term of a government in office or that of a Prime Minister.

    Which government in their right mind would remove a Prime Minister from Office if he is doing an excellent job? They say Prime Minister but deep down they mean government trying to put conflict between a Prime Minister and other members of his party. Reminds me of the temptation of Christ when the devil promises Jesus he would give him everything if only he would disobey his father.

    That is what I see this message statement from the visiting PM. Maybe things must not be as good with his party and government and he knows he may lose the next election so he needs the other Caribbean body to help him run again.

    Tell him we love our PM and our right to choose who we want to represent us.

    • Me
      August 18, 2016

      Thomas, my doubts about you have been confirmed.

  31. Reasoning
    August 15, 2016

    For some reason,it would be good to let these ********* stay in power for life and all those who can leave the island go. All business owners close their businesses and go to another country,every professional leave and those who can’t leave stop working and see who and what they’ll hold on to power to :?: Cause all these ……….rogues and thugs are concerned about is holding on to power!!!

    • Tell the Facts
      August 17, 2016

      Where will they go? Times are not what they were previously when some left for better climes and did very well, when PJ was PM. Were you aware of that? I knew them all, that is, the intellectuals who held good government jobs then.
      I would encourage D/cans to help build and enhance their country rather than consistently criticize and bring their own country down. They are harming themselves.

  32. John harris
    August 15, 2016

    If I was a member for any party in government I would support such legislation. I would try to learn as much as possible about good governance in democracies especially small states like ours and would put my hat in the race for party leader. Two terms will give other skilled parliamentarians in the governing party to serve their country and there also must be good succession plans. I refuse to believe any sane parliamentarian would want to serve in a party where one individual remains leader for as long as the party wins. We ought to have the confidence we can serve as well or even better than the previous party leader.

  33. go lock youself in a toitoi and stay there
    August 15, 2016

    Don’t be surprised if next week he stands at the top the financial centre at 5 o’clock in the morning and declare that he and the other man are going to live forever. Is this guy for real? Is he human? does he pass hydrogen sulfide?

  34. Not only 4 laughs-Serious ting dat
    August 15, 2016

    This one\’s for FET

  35. John Paul
    August 15, 2016

    What does Blackmore know about Democratic processes?Who tell Him to say what He said? Tony?The same one that told us that Pierro was stabbed in the back by them while He was extending His hand to them?
    By the way Mr. Blackmore St Kitts only has 45000 People and We have about 70000.Shortage of talent? You mean a Brain drain because anybody in His right mind flees this country !

    • John Paul
      August 15, 2016

      Maybe this will work in Your interest ,With Skeritt out as PM maybe just maybe You might think You have a chance lol

  36. Not only 4 laughs-Serious ting dat
    August 15, 2016

    I read with glee the delivery from this west coast former babylon, someone i know relatively well during my mahaut days. Similarly, Blackmoore noted that while the idea of a term limit on an individual in the office of Prime Minister is a “useful argument,” the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity.
    this is the nice part: “less talent, [and] less diversity. Diversity I can comprehend not the talent part lol & LMAO real loud too. The guy Blackmoore has the gull to describe self as having talent!!! Rayburn tickle me man! You cannot even express urself U stating and considering urself as having talent? what are U smoking? Back in ur cop days you must have held back some of the marijuana exhibits and currently using it for medical & recreational purposes .
    Dominican politics & society cannot be more amusing. But it is a reflection of the population\’s triple standards.
    No wonder, DA has lossed so many of us who continuously /ad infinitum.

  37. a young man in dominica
    August 15, 2016

    well…. i mean… what can i say… only in Dominica..only.. and i mean ONLY in Dominica.. some days i wonder if we are a serious country, like no joke, is Dominica a COUNTRY? or just a place where some people just do whatever and say whatever.. like we are in some sort of fantasy world or on TV…. the level and “tone” of discourse by the leaders in our society is astonishing.. i really would love to see what dominica shall be like in the next 5, 10, 15 years.. time will tell :)

  38. Zandoli
    August 15, 2016

    This is like asking the fox to guard the chicken coop. Although I am somewhat in agreement with him, I also think after a while you need a fresh set of hands at the wheel.

    After 2 terms these guys get lazy they are out of ideas and they begin to think the place belongs to them.

    So I do supporters limits.

  39. Mwen chyen
    August 15, 2016

    Mr Blackmore I agree with you, Tony is pm since 2004, so take out skerrit and put any of you present ministers, skerrit will still be in charge, so y not just leave him there

  40. KID ON THE BLOCK
    August 15, 2016

    A MAN is as OLD as he feels. If you want to RULE prove to the people that you can. The Voters dictate who they want to represent and Govern. Once you are capable and doing well for the people you can remain as PM as long as THE ALMIGHTY gives you breath and strength to serve the people. Leadership is the key. Age is just a number!

  41. Big-black-boy
    August 15, 2016

    I commend the Dr. Timothy Harris Government for modelling on all developed, civilized countries, and I emphasize on “All!!!”
    It is common sense that no human being is immune to corruption or preferences as you may put it.
    Take the example of a close family member, example; a brother who may need a heart transplant but can last two months without it, and a non related who needs the same matching heart but will last only 2 weeks without. And the decision is in your hands, who will you choose to be the recipient of that heart.
    Also, it is no secrete that the incumbent has an advantage because he or she holds the public purse, and the government media.
    Besides this we have to decide if we want to model on true democracy or nepotism.

  42. August 15, 2016

    Blackmore you and Ruthless Skeritt just give Dominicans Electoral reform and you all will know what time it will be

  43. tomtom
    August 15, 2016

    West indies team captain should have two test.and so on, why not. Ha Ha.

  44. club cherz
    August 15, 2016

    what he means by” the idea has to be revised for smaller societies with less talent? Is he saying that our society which is filled qith university graduates are untalented?

    • Draft
      August 17, 2016

      Yes thats definitely what he means.. Somehow this guy and skerite and the others believe that they are the only group of people who can run the country? But what makes these lazy objectivist think that they can run Dominica? That gov there for 16 years going to 17 years and the country is filled with persons in poverty.. There is a mass situation of joblessness in the country.. Quite frankly i cant understand how these people sleep at n night..these guys are wicked sick set of gready people… Who will seat there and agree that they are doin enough wherre the real truth is that people are jobless and poor arround the country.. Take a drive around Dominica and you will see the level of poverty that existc on that island

  45. Student
    August 15, 2016

    At least the Prime Minister of St. Kitts is a democratic leader. He is in power and imposing this bill. This is what democracy is. Dominica is doom for failure with this government.

  46. jonathan st jean
    August 15, 2016

    Mr Blackmore you are on the wrong side of history.Keep doing what you are doing.Rubber stamp your boss Skerritt,because that’s what you do best,but your government will not remain in power for ever.Term limits is coming.Put it in your pipe and smoke it

  47. Unknown-Ish
    August 15, 2016

    Similarly, Blackmoore noted that while the idea of a term limit on an individual in the office of Prime Minister is a “useful argument,” the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity.”

    So Mr blackmoore, you consider the Dominica Labour Party to have “less talent and less diversification”?

  48. TangledWeave
    August 15, 2016

    …the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity.”

    I wonder if he truly believes that his party members are the only ones talented enough to run the country? It seems that power not only corrupts but it deludes as well.

  49. Jon Jones
    August 15, 2016

    I think the Haitians amongst others will see some familiar signs here. Isn’t this how Papa Doc got started?

  50. Doc. Love
    August 15, 2016

    All I would like to ask Blackmoore whether he would like to spend the rest of his political like as a Minister of Government not being given an opportunity to be Prime Minister for the next fifty years. This is what Skeritt said was his intension. If you don’t take this matter seriously you will never become Prime Minister as Skeritt has Vince on his mind to be his successor.

  51. dissident
    August 15, 2016

    ……………… Skerrit did not go to college for his honorary doctorate.
    It is quite revealing that DLP sees no future talent beyond Skerrit.
    Is that a compliment to the DLP?
    DLP could not possibly survive without Skerrit as PM. Not even blackmoore thinks he has the talent.
    This is really laughable!
    fools rush in where angels never go!!!!!!

  52. August 15, 2016

    Thats Right me myself and I’. In my opinion, any body swiming in milk & Honey, able to be the King in the Land of too many Chiefs and so little Indians, quite Naturally has earned the right to Campaingn for staying power for life. But the word and the ultimate Book says, ” What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and loose his own soul, Every body else seems to be in a Comma, and MOO—Moo. So MR. Minister lobby to serve the people for life, all parts of the body were argueing to be the Boss, in the End the### won the rights to be Boss. Servant of the people by the people, while we are threatening others out of their jobs, we are asking for us to reign for ever. Only in Dominica. Good luck MR. Minister.

  53. A Bastard
    August 15, 2016

    I support the idea of two term limits on the position of PM. That for sure will make the sitting PM work in the best interest of his country and as a result, he will put ministers that are capable to perform in their office, unlike the nonsense we have in Dominica with a bunch of square pegs in round pin. If Skerrit knew he had two terms to perform He would be more careful with his appointees, which would be good for DA. As is now he only concerned about staying in power and he only does what he thinks will keep him in power and to hell with our future. If after ten years you cant do the job why give you eternity?

    ………….As an incentive to get more from our PM’s, I suggest after their 2 year term they sit out and, 5 years later, they may return as leader/ party…………………………………………………..

  54. ABOLOR
    August 15, 2016

    Dominica is your private Island and you have 80,000 children, all living in your home. So yes, you can stay in your house as long as you want, and rule your children as you see fit. I hope your house have strong foundation, and have a solid roof; cause the rain and wind is going to come strong on all you DLP bleeders.

  55. Nrt
    August 15, 2016

    Term limits is the sensible thing to do. In essence we are paying a PM to move on, don’t take it personal, let the ideas of others flow. It is for the collective good.
    And, while pondering this legalize marijuana as many if not most smoke it already. Face reality.

    • Annon
      August 18, 2016

      I second that, it’s high time they come to their senses. Making marijuana illegal originated in USA as a racist ploy to keep the Black People flowing into their jails, up till now they have it as a class-A drug and meth and coke are class-B because white people prefer those. they happened to heavy hand the UN to make other countries follow. Think Dominica think.

  56. Rayburn, where else besides Dominica you know, or ever heard of a man leaving the police force to go into politics, without any academic background, never studied law; does not have a Law degree, who is not a JD (jurisprudence) could find himself in a position as justice minister of any country in this universe?

    Only in Dominica, where any idiot who leaves elementary school can become a police officer, they are the same kind who becomes public prosecutors, and minister of justice. The reason you want people like you to be in government fro the rest of you miserable pathetic life is because there is nothing else you can do.

    You could not set foot out of Dominica, and make a living anywhere on the planet, because there is nothing in your head. Only in Dominica you all can remain in power indefinitely, because of your system, of bribing, and buying peoples vote. that will eventually come to and end……………………

    If you people was on the continent…

  57. plato
    August 15, 2016

    “less talent” ??? How insulting can you get to your own people ? There are plenty of Dominicans with a truckload more talent than you. Idiot.

  58. It's My Damn business
    August 15, 2016

    But has anyone said after two terms the Prime Minister should resign from politics altogether? The argument I have always heard is “Two terms as Prime Minister” and not necessarily as parlrep. I mean can he not still be a parlrep if his constituents still want him? Was Chanderpaul not once captain of West Indies and was replaced as captain, but continued to play for many years?

    Blackmoore should understand that in Dominica we don’t vote for a PM like they do in America. Is Skerrit that came with his nonsense communist thing about “Skerrit for PM.” Here we vote candidates and individual parties choose their leader. So DLP at their convention chose Skerrit and UWP chose Linton.

    All that talk about ” the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity” simply speaks of the the leadership crisis seen in the current DLP administration, and sadly, no one is putting their had up.

    • “Was Chanderpaul not once captain of West Indies and was replaced as captain, but continued to play for many years?”

      Can’t you see you are talking nonsense; what are the comparisons?

      Cricket is a game a sport, the running of a country is a totally different thing, in that people’s life, and lively hood is at stake. Skerrit’s almost twenty years in office has only caused hunger, pain suffering, and poverty!

      Some people will disagree; however, those who disagree, are the ones benefiting directly from Skerrit. Why do you believe that in some countries there are term limits? The United States is the richest country in the world, the American economy is the largest on this planet, yet no president is allowed to serve more than two terms in office.

      No president can make the presidency their personal, hence preventing a dictatorship, or a king rule! You all will vote for Skerrit every five years, only to keep him wealthy, while he destroys the country, and your personal…

  59. August 15, 2016

    a smaller country ?, with less what? how huge is the rest of the countries that do the term conditions .? i truly believe that after a freedom part rule dominica should have learned how it feels when one man think its ok to help those for you and leave those who oppose to suffer . just a look into history will open our eyes.
    this term thing could change all mind sets of the ones elected to offices . they will then have to show what they could do our leave .

  60. August 15, 2016

    If you were not sucking from the same fat bone you would never say such a thing.One day when another party will be in power you will see the need of what you think is not a problem…All I can say is in what ever country or person who is in power and cannot see the need for someone else to lead the country is corrupted…never forget that by what ever means ,there is an end to every thing and person..

  61. Small Brain Ministers
    August 15, 2016

    I feel bad for people like Blackmoore,, and Reggie – three men that should be in a position to challenge Skerrit as leader of the DLP, since they are the ONLY three to have been there since the death of Rosie

    To hear Blackmoore talk his nonsense truly hurts me as a laborite. Indirectly he is saying the DLP is so weak that Skerrit is replaceable, and threfore ” the idea must be revised for smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity”? Since when the DLP and Dominica have so little talent and diversity+, to the point that we must put up with the nonsense of Skerrit, and have to revise the idea for a smaller society with less talent? No wonder up to today there is no deputy PM, and Skerro not trusting or grooming anyone to replace him should he become ill or dies in office. If anything, Blackmoore just painted a picture of the crisis that lies ahead of the DLP and Dominica on a whole. A nation or team that is based on ONE man is in crisis, as seen in Chavez

    • Tell the Facts
      August 17, 2016

      I suppose your brain is not small. Do not make me laugh. :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

  62. LifeandDeath
    August 15, 2016

    Interesting Comment coming from Blackmore..but please don’t tell me after 10 years, a PM can’t find talent to be a suitable replacement..in many cases much of the talent have fled the corruption created by the very leaders in power too long.
    If Leadership is so grueling with limited rewards, why stay in power by any means necessary? Too many poor uneducated people elected in the special circumstances of the island Mr. Blackmore..when elected they never want to leave simply as a result of the excessive benefits they enjoy, whether they perform or not.
    Now talking about performance, how will the electorate measure performance of their representatives? In a lot of cases the electorate are blinded and pacified by handouts to be objective about measuring performance..

  63. Jaded
    August 15, 2016

    Mr. Blackmoore should note that the St. Kitts/Nevis proposal does not take any power from the people in terms of voting of the person of their choice. The proposed bill suggests that if a party forms the government more than twice (consecutively) then that party would have to appoint a different elected member as PM. I see no problem in that.

  64. %
    August 15, 2016

    Yes that’s how I think it should be, and THAT’S the pattern/model that advance democracies will adopt..I fully endorse Dr Harris pronouncement…He seem to be above board with nothing to hide.Recently in Africa, President Obama had this to say(not verbatim).. Those leaders who want to stay in office forever are the ones who have failed to develop their countries,they are the ones who are filthy rich,but believe that demiting office will hinder them from using this wealth..I say staying in office temporarily shields them from getting justice,but how long?.Not long!A famous E-MAIL on 27-03-08,at10:27am,has told the world that,it’s not the people who want Skerrit as PM…Remember this little extract from this E-MAIL:::::I leave state today.These guys are talking about reforms to include ID Cards, and completr reregistration of voters…Such reforms will undermine your reelection legacy…I have referred to Dominica ad nauseam as a failed state under an inept incompetent,incapable…

    • %
      August 15, 2016

      PM..But I can see signs that things will change..Why?Because in 2014 in St Joe, Mahaut,RValley,LaPlaine, CastleBruce,Grandfond,,,,,,,Labour only pulled through with the help of illegal voters…It is we the concerned patriots that must put a stop to that elction rigging by a rogue,brutal and brutish,intransparenyt regime.

  65. Shaka Zulu
    August 15, 2016

    smaller societies with “less talent, [and] less diversity.” pure inferiority complex. This is what our leaders think of us and the solution is have one idiot leader to rule over a society devoid of talent. The labour party have right say that because Dominicans keep voting them in. This is the ignorance the pm and blackmoore them strive on.

  66. duck1951
    August 15, 2016

    Term limits are good ! Otherwise one gets stagnation and complacency . Serving one’s country is an honor and should never become a regular job. This breeds corruption and dictatorships . Check out all these countries with no term limits . Very few are progressive .

  67. Bad boy
    August 15, 2016

    Truly I did not expect to hear anything different from the Justice Minister, Rayburn Blackmoore,. In fact I have always referred to him as the INJUSTICE minister, but since he has been so bad as injustice minister I will now start to refer to him as ‘Skerrit dirty work minister’. What a shame!

  68. Tj
    August 15, 2016

    A sensible leader should know that the human being have but so much ideas. Term limits should be considered, it may be more than two but it should be considered.

    • viewsexpressed
      August 16, 2016

      Lessons learnt, Two is enough. We had enough, it is killing us. Skerro must go, take Blackmore etc with him.

  69. 1979 is now #stop the fliping hypocrisy!!
    August 15, 2016

    this statement by a sitting minister is as telling and distasteful as his haircut..

  70. Hamil
    August 15, 2016

    Utter rubbish Blackmore . If it was any other party I am betting my last dollar ,your opinion would be different. All and I mean all government get corrupted after two terms. When I look at Dominica who has gained independence for so long and I look at the state of the country’s development. I t is terrible.Best we had remain under British or France rule, the economy would be better.Every party has drained the public’s purse. There is no exception. This is the reason why I do not put my faith in ANY party.My faith is in God. And one day God will deliver us . And a party who is for country and all Dominicans will be formed. Right now not labour or workers is going to get us from this hell hole we are in. Lord have mercy on us all.

    • viewsexpressed
      August 16, 2016

      I trust UWP as a competent party now in 2016 and beyond. They have demonstrated decency and are business serious individuals with a brilliant leader and a focussed committed team. I wholly trust them.
      Labour is dirty and corrupt, their dirty record is there to see, they just go and take Skerro and Blackmore with them, the entire inept empty Labour cabal.

    • August 16, 2016

      Right now Dominicans are in the same situation as the Republicans in the USA, Trump on one side Skerrit on the other side with the very same attitude and mentality just listen to both of them and you will see, they open their mouth and hot air comes out, they haven got any clue how to run an Island or a Country. So what did any one expect from the Justice Minister, Tony or Skerrit. I believe that Matt( Q95) should play the except from Persident Obama speech in Africa where he said no individual show stay in power for ever and no one is above the law not even he as president, he also went on to say after they make so much money, these guys should be hearing that statement over and over again, I call on Matt to keep playing it.

  71. Princess Natari
    August 15, 2016

    Because it was bequeathed to allu by allu parents. Allu suffering from the castro and chavez syndrome. Every long rope has an end and every long road has a bend. Go on!!

    • Truth
      August 15, 2016

      We ain’t see nothing yet … They extend “olive branch” then put fire and fire ants on the end the Opposition has to hold!! It was prophesied… So we shall suck the salt that we were told and is given to suck on…

      That too shall pass

    • Aurclaire Thomas
      August 15, 2016

      It’s interesting that when you cant beat a party or its leader at the polls….You support term limits. How about term limits for non-effective opposition leaders ? Do you support that too?

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