The opposition United Workers Party has declared that the process initiated by Prime Minister Roosevelt concerning the election of a new President for Dominica is constitutionally flawed and “null and void.”
The UWP blamed what it described as an “anomaly” in the process.
Opposition leader Hector John made his party’s position known in separate letters to President Dr. Nicholas Liverpool and Speaker of the House Alix Boyd Knights
“I write on behalf of the Parliamentary Opposition who are very concerned that the Constitutional procedure and controls that guide the resignation or removal of the President of Dominica and the process of election his successor are not being followed,” John said in his letter to President Liverpool.
John referred in his letter, to a special sitting of parliament convened on August 24 when Boyd-Knights informed members that there was disagreement between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition during consultation for a new president.
According to John, Boyd-Knights never mentioned that the president has either resigned or has been removed from office in accordance with the Constitution. “We immediately sensed an anomaly,” John wrote. “The anomaly became more obvious to us in the discussions which ensued. In that process we realized that the meeting was being treated as a consultation with a view to invoking the provisions of section 19 of the Constitution regarding the election of the President.”
Based on this John said the UWP believes the process for the election of a new president is “fundamentally flawed unconstitutional, null and void.”
In his letter to the Speaker, John mentions his ‘strong’ disapproval of the process which led to the special sitting of Parliament. “We believed then, as we do now, that the so-called consultation was in effect an attempt with the assistance of your good office, to deviate from the clear and unambiguous prescription of the constitution regarding the termination of the tenure of the current President and the election of a successor,” John wrote.
He said that since the meeting the opposition has not been made aware that a vacancy has been created in the office of the president and is requesting evidence of that.
John went on to say that based on advice received, the opposition strongly believes that the process for the resignation of the President or for his removal “has not been initiated or properly initiated in accordance with sections 119 and 24 of the Constitution and has no basis in law.”
“In the circumstance we respectfully urge you, Madam Speaker, to halt any and all further proceedings in Parliament, concerning the election of a successor to His Excellency Dr. Nicholas Liverpool, until you transmit to us, for our verification, the documentary evidence required by the constitution, pursuant to and upon which the matter must proceed.” John wrote.
Word surfaced recently that President Liverpool would be demiting office early due to ill-health. A special sitting of parliament was held after it was reported that consultation between Skerrit and John failed to reach common ground on a nominee to replace him.
The opposition subsequently demanded that the government make available a letter of intent from the president showing that he is actually vacating office.
At the special sitting of parliament, the Speaker of the House set September 7 as the deadline for the submission of nominations for president from both the opposition and the government.
Click on the links below to read the Opposition Leader’s letters to the President and Speaker Knights.
I support a move to a President Skerrit.
a good hard dictatorship is what these simple ppl in DA need. When you were small your parents would tell you if you cannot learn you will feel.
Well Dominicans need to feel. The supremo has worked out that once you have the church, women and the syrians and their lavabos in your pocket, you can do what you like.
now you have one of the fattest per capita countries in the world and also top 5 in drinking rum worldwide.
soon a kfc and a red cap is all the vote will be worth. they brokes but they makin people rich ppl richer and screwing their health same time.
look madness.
Ms Alix Boyd Knight must understand that she is the Speaker of House. She is not an appointed constitutional judge. It is not her responsibility to interpret the constitution in a way to allow the unconstitutional conduct of the government. She must stop it.
Roseau Valley has been one of those who have called on the President to speak out in defense of our constitution, his own tenure and legacy. I have expressed lots of disappointment in the deafening, vociferous and rather raucous silence of the President.
Dominicans … I think we are hearing confidently and loudly from the President of Dominica. It is now up to Dominica to listen attentively to the bold message coming from the sophisticated and mummified silence of the President.
I hear the President calling on the citizens of Dominica to be vigilant always. He says;
Fellow citizens, I am the President and the Head of State of Dominica. I have not resigned and I do not intend to resign from Office, contrary to what the Prime Minister and the Speaker of the House may have said to you.
There was no need to hold any consultation with regard to the election of a new President as my post has not been and is not vacant nor can the Prime Minister make it vacant. I have not resigned and do not intend to demit my office – never mind all the lies that you hear.
My fellow Dominicans, do not expect to hear from me on this unnecessary constitutional controversy created by your Prime Minister for his own selfish reasons. Your President is above the fray. I shall not partake in the current constitutional massacre. I was elected to defend your constitution and I shall continue to do so in silent defiance.
I am listening to you Dominica. I hear you Dominica, I read your comments Dominica. I feel your pain. I understand your frustration and disappointment but you must continue to speak and to fight for you democracy.
Please do not allow the Prime Minister to conspire with the Speaker and others to remove me from office in violation of your constitution. It is you the people of Dominica to realize when enough is enough. Please do not harbour any fear. Fight for your rights and you will be victorious. As your President, I will speak to you at the appropriate time.
May God bless Dominica and may freedom and democracy reign in this land of our birth
ROSEAU VALLEY
oeau valley UWP did it first they paied tickets for people to vote them and they oted them out so no problem if it happen to the others and it will not happen
We respect your right to comment and thank you for doing more than the President has done in months.
However, I need not remind you that whereas you are entitled to your own person view, you are not entitled to create your own facts, misrepresent the truth and to digress from the issue being discussed on a wild and aimless frolic of your own.
Roseau Valley
again this PM disregard constitutional protocol…if a PM cannot respect the constitution which he swore to uphold; please tell me what good is he…one day dominica will have a better alternative cause this govn’t smh
Do you know why we have so many churches in Dominica? We have Gospel this and Gospel that, Baptiste this and Baptiste that,Pentecostal this and Original Pentecostal (check Lazor Beam Scrutiny about this one),Mission Union this and Mission Union that,Yahweh this and Yahweh that etc. There is Seventh Day Adventist and Church of God Seventh Day
Do you know too that they all use the very same Bible – the King James verson.
All this confusion boils down to “Interpretation”. One man have a certain interpretation and he form his church based on his interpretation. He can find every pursuavive reason, even using the same bible to justify his interpretation of the bible.
We have two different Churhes here who do not beleive in music in church. They do not have any connection.
Does that sound a bell. Isn’t it a similar situation with intrepreting our constitution. Every body has a view about the Presidency and they beleive that their view is the authority. Not only that, we wage war against each other on the same matter of interpretation or rather misinterpretation.
All in an effort to obtain POWER.
Power over you, power over me.
They are power hungry, find it hard to relinquish power, abuse their powers and always criticize those that have it, hence the reason for setting something of their own claiming to be the best
“All in an effort to obtain power”. That is why Spaggs and the UWP have their own and are pushing their own interpretation of the constitution.
THERE ARE NO PARABLES IN THE CONSTITUTION, THE PROVISIONS MADE WITHIN ARE CLEAR AND CONCISE, some just act SMART by PRETENDING they don’t understand or as you say “MISINTERPRET”.
there is no comparison between the bible and the constitution..
thank you
Actually Observer, this is not a case of different interpretations of the Constitution. The PM, Speaker and the bright supporters of the administration (like Peeping Tom) all admit that the current process wrong, filled with anomalies and is unconstitutional. Everyone knows that and agrees with that.
The problem steps from the actions taken pursuant to that common understanding and interpretation.
Some have suggested what they consider to be a practical approach. Some want conformity with the constitutional provision, whereas some advocate an amendment of the constitution to provide for the procedures on which it is silent.
Really, if we make a greater effort in following not only the words but more importantly the SPIRIT and INTENT of the constitution, we can al be on the same path of law, reason, practicality.
What is all the fighting about?
i agree with John 110% but Liverpool really needs to go. These people are all about what Dominica has to offer to them and they ain’t willing to do fart for country.
He will soon learn to drive left and to respect other drivers on the road. Parking in the middle of the road to have his long conversations and behave like you’re suppose to wait. Very out of order!
I have said, and will say again that this current president is the worst we have had in Dominica, and could well be the worst that we will ever have. SHAME ON HIM!
I want to know why the opposition seem to have a problem with EVERY single thing the party in power does? It is just one thing after another. Just a lot of noise? Just asking…
Oh Sidney…You’ve got it all wrong. It is not the opposition that have a problem with EVERY single thing the government does. It is the government that seem to be doing everything wrong against the correct interpretation and application of our constitutional provisions. It is the people who are disappointed in the conduct of the government and its repeated abuse of political power.
may may lord why is our pm behaving like that why cant he just follow the law of the land no one is above the law if there is a opposition just call them and let inform them i pray for my sweet and beautiful country from the raff of poly trix
This regime just refuses to follow the basic legal procedures written in the constitution to replace the president.
The PM has indicated expressed before that NO LAW, NO CONSTITUTION can deter him from doing what he pleases, and he has made good on his promise.
This type of behavior is comparable to those of various dictators around the world.
Dominica is General and Backward island…nothing to shout about…they can’t even get the basics right on protocol adherence…what a joke…
I am sorry Stoney. I cannot and will not accept this. Yes we have issues like every country in the world but no Dominica is not generally a backward Island. We do still have a lot to shout about. The fact that Mr. Skerrit does not appear to respect protocol does not reflect who we are as Dominicans. This is no joking matter.
I commend the Opposition for holding the feet of the government to the fire on this important constitutional matter.
There is a principle at stake and that principle should transcend political partisanship. As Dominicans we can all agree that it is imperitive that we follow the constitution regardless of which party is power at the time. Indeed, if we claim to be a nation of laws and not men and we believe in the rule of law, as is repeated infinitum,there is no better example of a national issue that compels us to live our values. For the constitution is not just a an idle document that we can choose to follow at our whims andn fancies. It is the supreme law of the land and it is a grave matter to conduct ourselves in a manner that may violate the constitution.
I applaud the opposition for drawing a line in the sand. It is a principled position to demand that the process of electing a new president be done in a manner that is in accord with the constitution.
This is especially important in light of the behavior and pronouncements of the prime minister relative to the passport and citizsenship case before the court of appeal. Keep in mind that the prime minister asserted that no law, not even the constitution can prevent him from seeking office even if he may be constitutionally disqualified.
I, like a growing number of Dominicans, am concerned about the emergence of a dictatorship in Dominica under Skerrit. And it may come sooner than we anticipate if we do not take matters relating to the constitution very seriously, and vow to hold the prime minister’s feet to the fire to ensure that he does not take liberties not granted to him under the constitution.
Thank you. Very good contribution. I like it.
Observer you cannot teach me Papa Dom anything. With all your certificates you have proven on this forum that you are a dishonest person. I don’t know why roseau valley is wasting time responding to you but if you want to engage me I’ll be in Dominica on the 21st Oct we can meet at the bay front in roseau at 8 pm be there
This is such an important issue that I choose to respond and engage anyone who appears to be repeating the lies of the administration.
I engage because of the importance that I place on this fundamental constitutional issue without any thought of who says what.
I have no idea who may possess 1 or 4 GCEs or university degrees. I have none but I am blessed that I can discuss the issues and not personalities through this medium.
Dominicans get ready for elected President Roosevelt Skerrit….
“On Oct. 2, 2003, the Dominican parliament appointed Liverpool president of the country, a largely ceremonial position. In 2005 he initiated debate regarding reform of the Dominican constitution and the country’s parliamentary structure. Liverpool favoured an elected president who would serve as both head of state (the current role of president) and head of government (the current role of prime minister).” – Britannica Online Encyclopedia – http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1003613/Nicholas-Liverpool
Now i know where our productivity is going. when one person has at least 21 of the 80 posts at this time. Why do we spend so much time here bickering over people who get Dominicans hard earned tax money to do nothing. To live a lavish lifestyle at Dominicans expense. Get to work Dominicans and maybe we will see improvement in our beloved country. We have elections every 5 years but we fight all through those years but yet we never go anywhere.When elections come do what you need to do, what your conscience tells you is right. Now on this issue if the president submits his resignation the country will be left without a president. Correct me if im wrong but the presidents letter of resignation is would have to be “effective immediately”. When there is no sitting president what would be the oppositions complaint?? if he has stated that he is unable to continue then i think the proactive decision would be to commence the search for a new president.
Your analysis does not making much sense. If one persom -according to you- is unproductive because he/she is passonate about the protection of our constitution, how did you arrive at the Parry Bellot conclusion that all Dominicans are unproductive?
The fight for the constitution is a productive one. Should we simply vote, have an election stolen from us by candidates who are not even eligible for election and then go to sleep for 5 more years? You are really not making sense.
You speak of proactive decision…what does our laws have to say about implementing such proactive action? You are really not making sense.
Dr Liverpool is a respectibly decent man with a BIG legal brain. Don’t expect lesser mortals like those who criticize him to understand anything. The opposition know full well that anyone they put up will LOSE. Perhaps they forget they only have three votes. These tormented demonic people are determined to prevent us from having peace in Dominica. I will pray to God to give them something to worry about and let our country be in PEACE>
J A
No don’t be so mean. Respect the person’s comment. But I am glad that Alice is not a lesser mortal. She is a greater worthless mortal like the president.
I would like to ask Alice who respects Mr. Liverpool so much? How has Mr. Liverpool used his BIG LEGAL brain to advance Dominica in his capacity as the president of Dominica?
Alice, please do not expose your ignorance. The issue is not about the nominee of the opposition nor is it about the nominee of the government.
You seem to be a tormented person who is not at peace with yourself and I pray that God will open your brain to allow some logic to seep through.
So why do you think that there is no peace in the world? God is dead! And by the way you want to pray to God to do harm and evil to others? What kind of God is your God, the devil?
When things are done the right way we(Dominicans) in Dominica and outside of dominica will have peace. Let us respect each other and the Constitution, the highest law of the land.
You are obviously one of the lesser mortals, so it is not surprising that you cannot understand what is at stake there.
Two wrongs will never make any situation right.Maybe Mr.John’s attendance at the consultation with Skerrit was a mistake. Now that Skerrit has realised, the receipt of the President’s letter and the meeting with the leader of the opposition were in contradiction of the constitution,why doesn’t he,the President and the Speaker start all over and made a horible situation right.We are aware of Skerrit’s blatant disregard for the constitution. I believe now is the time more than ever to convince all Dominicans, those famous words “no law no constitution,” was either just a slip of the tongue or political jitters and is prepared to bury all that commess in his political grave.
Yes Doc…..you are right.Now would be a great opportunity for the PM and the President to give meaning to the true intent of the expression “no law no constitution”. I agree with you.
Doc. Love: «the receipt of the President’s letter and the meeting with the leader of the opposition were in contradiction of the constitution.» The Constitution is available online. I think you should first read the relevant sections; in particular 19, 24, 25, and 119 (they are all relatively short and in simple language). After you have read them, ask yourself which section(s) of our Constitution that this government disregards. Then, if you are honest enough to do so, come back here using this same moniker and tell the world that your above post is made in total ignorance of the facts.
Peeping, What about all of the above.
You of all persons should have a better appreciation of the OPERATION OF LAW and the interpretation of legal instruments. There are various rules of statutory interpretation, which are employed by courts such as the literal and contextual rules of interpretation.
Fundamentally, however, when interpreting and applying any constitutional provisions, one must not limit his understanding to the words or the text that is read. One must give a broader interpretation to give meaning to the SPIRIT or INTENT of the legal provisions in order to breathe life into the Constitution as a living document.
You seem to be missing Prof Wikileaks in this battle.
No objection to the appointment of Mr Williams. I hope he is not seeing this as a personal attack on him. It is just a matter of doing things the right way. If we begin that process of doing what “the little men in our heads” tell us to do Dominica will be lawless and mass chaos.
Mr. Liverpool will go down in history as the worst president in Dominica.”See no evil , hear no evil, say no evil, feel no evil, smell no evil.” what a mess we in!!
So nothings affects him, that’s why he can’t come out and tell the DLP Gov’t to follow the proper path to elect his successor.
Where leaders have no Vision,the people will perish. But I don’t wish that on us. But we have to take steps to protect our children’s future.
What is the role of the President again?
to put his foot in his when we have serious issues affecting the land…
Well he has not been doing a blasted thing, because we have been having serious issues day in and day out.
Welcome Roseau. Express yourself. We all must speak (Roseau Central, Roseau North, Roseau South and Roseau Valley). We must express our disappointment in the current President.
Our leaders may not have a vision but we do not have to perish. We can still reclaim our country from those who wish to take it into a place of no return. Do not be afraid. Fear no more of the 18 cheated and failed experiment.
It is crystal clear that it is all over now- whether or not we have empirical data from polls to interpret how the majority really feels.
oh I didn’t know that only Roseau have a say in electing a president for the whole of Dominica. Hmmmmmmm.
It seems that every things that this Gov’t has before it when making a decisions they have to first think of the illegal way to go about doing it. A prestigiuous position like president, not even that process they can properly follow to elect someone.
This incompetent New DLP Gov’t just can’t do anything right within the framework of the Law.Crooked thoughts will bring crooked results as we have seen in most projects and activities done by these guys.
I am so ashamed that I went down to vote for them. Not again!!
Isn’t it amazing. They work so hard to do eveything wrong and illegal just so that they do not do what is right and legal. You wonder why?
Please come down to vote when elections are called. Take the ticket and spending change they will offer you and VOTE THEM OUT.
As a believer,please allow me to quote John 15:7 here. “If you believe in me, and my WORDS abide in you, you SHALL ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you.”
The BIBLE is the constitution of the believer and as a result, he will only be blessed when he follows the bible, his constitution.
Since THE CONSTITUTION is the bible of our nation, we should always, at all times, follow it thoroughly in every aspect of our development. So good job Mr. John and the opposition! We cannot afford to ignore our constitution and do things our way.
to bad for the uwp, there will be a new president before the end of this month and so they can stay out again,thats why when they entered the house to debate they were lost for words unable to explain and speak so stay out
You meant too bad for Dominica. Too bad for the Constitution. No Law or Constitution will stop Mr. Skerrit from doing what he wants in Dominica Therefore, before the end of the month, Dominicans will once again have allowed Mr. Skerrit to disrespect the Constitution and rub his arrogance in our face.
This is not about UWP and whether or not they are or out of parliament. It is about the integrity of the Constitution.
that is the type of opposition we long anticipated. not those cheap boy play of before. keep it up.
Indeed….this is the type of backbone that we expect in a parliamentary opposition. We must stand firmly behind such action in support.
I like this ongoing debate on the replacement of H.E Liverpool because it affords us another opportunity to study the relevance of certain sections of our Constitution and certain institutions of our democracy. This study, I hope, will lead to necessary reforms.
Much can be said about the quality of the letters sent by the UWPwee, but I will focus on the «anomaly» of which Hon. John speaks and his declaration that the process is «null and void.»
First, there does seem to be an anomaly in the Constitution. It says clearly that the President must write to the Speaker when resigning but it does not specify that the President must write to the PM or Speaker to inform of his decision to leave office prematurely. Second, the Constitution apparently does not suggest how we should proceed if we (i.e. the PM or the Speaker) have been informed of a PENDING decision by the President to leave office.
On this, the Opposition’s interpretation of Section 19 is correct: We do not have a vacant presidency and the President’s term does not expire in 90 days. Yet, we know that he is going to create a vacancy soon (I do not accept the UWPWee’s inferences that the PM has not been so informed by the President). What do we do then? Do we wait for him to first leave office and then begin the process of consultation? This would mean that the state remains without a President for a period of time. Hence, a potential Constitutional crisis. Or, do we begin now and have someone to replace him as soon as he leaves? This is where the PM is correct in initiating a consultation process, in the absence of precise guidelines from the Constitution on this PENDING vacancy. Unfortunately, the Opposition, although it recognizes this anomaly, does not seem to want to do something to get us beyond it, in the short-term, and then to correct it.
I would suggest that both sides of Parliament should seize this opportunity to improve our Constitution. Declaring the process «null and void» is unhelpful and indeed, reactionary.
Thank you Peeping. I do not wish to add more to your contribution that – the Opposition’s interpretation of Section 19 is correct. We do not have a vacant presidency and the President’s term does not expire in 90 days. I had a gut feeling that you knew that all along.. You just happen to be a bright person who supports the Labour party.
But obviously Peeping, the first step in taking action on your very good suggestion that both sides of Parliament should seize this opportunity to improve our Constitution MUST be declaring the current process «null and void».
Once both sides accept that…we can then move on to the core of your contribution. i,e., how best can we work together to resolve our differences in light of your perceived anomaly and skewed interpretation of the Constitutional provisions. The declaration of the UWP, therefore ought to be helpful whether or not it is reactionary. After all, we are all reacting to the PM’s declarations and the illegal action of the Speaker.
Peace and Respect
Roseau Valley
“Hence, a potential Constitutional crisis.” Peeping tom how can you be so blatantly bias. We have had constitutional crisis and the president remained mute.There were even times when the office of the guardian of the constitution actually facilitated constitutional breeches. I need not talk about the blatant violation in the case of the Top Cop or the illegal prime minister.
Essentially Peeping Tom the only ones threatening the constitution are the ones who issue the president’s pay check so what other soceities would consider a constitutional crisis is just another “business as usual” day in Dominica. So while the opposition and the political directorated are fussing about the selection process to replace a supposedly ailing president, the president himself is way to sick and busy at the olympics to even attempt to clarify the matter. Weh Papa
Will Always Advocate World Wide..That Majority of Dominicans are not known to be Heads Up or Active Citizens, that’s why there Island is Considered the Poorest in the Eastern Caribbean and will hold onto that position as it’s citizens have a laid back mindset all over..
Good work UWP…A Country where Standards are not upheld…is normally poor and un attractive for business…..Cap Fits Nicely on Dominica..
The Ignorance virus is rampant in all corners,just on arrival from the airport look at how they keep the surroundings…why would someone with money even attempt to consider Dominica…haha
Orange County,
AT least some of us, including you, are not poor in that regard. We must ensure that Dominica will not remain a country where standards and principles are discarded. We must make sure that Dominica is a place that is conducive to doing business. Let’s together work to remove the cap that we have allowed to fit Dominica. Let’s be the antidote for the virus of arrogance that has affected the land of our birth. Let’s not be too negative on Dominica. We still need to encourage investment in spite of Skerrit’s nonsense
Well done Mr. John and the United Workers Party. I join the majority of responsible, civic-minded and patriotic Dominicans in congratulating you for taking that stand. The Constitution of Dominica and the Office of the President join in expressing gratitude for coming to their defense.
Everyone, including the PM and the Speaker, is well aware that the process is constitutionally flawed and must be discontinued.
ROSEAU VALLEY has been one of the most vocal critics of the unconstitutional process and the conduct of both the government and the Opposition. Today, ROSEAU VALLEY is proud of the action of Mr. John and the UWP. ROSEAU VALLEY is satisfied that the UWP is listening to its constituents, supporters and well wishers, while the government continues to celebrate its cumulative arrogance.
Considering the mummified silence of the President and the repeated disrespect of the Speaker of the official Opposition over the years, it is hoped that on this occasion, they will exercise professional restraint and provide a swift, honest and courteous response to the letter of the Opposition leader.
The ball has now bounced back in the court of the President, the government and the worst Speaker of the House of Assembly. Our eyes are opened, our ears are tuned and our hearts have been cleansed of petty partisan politically concerns as we stand ready to defend our Constitution from the conduct of this rogue Labour Party government.
Oh BS! These are not the words of Mr. John. Mr. John is just the puppet. We all know that he (John) is in favor of the nominee, but he is just following the instructions of Eddison James and Ron Green.
Whatever you say…..I applaud the action whoever is behind it. Sadly, it seems that you have only considered my contribution as BS because I attributed the action to Mr. John and not because of its substance.
So sad…how shallow we have become in Dominica.
You seem to be nothing but a political goon.Your contribution needs to dumped into a landfill.
Well done Honourable John. I fully support you.
At least the UWP is asking for things to be done in the right way. I like that.
They must keep Skerrit on his feet.
Indeed, this is the right thing to do at this juncture for the good of the Country and for the protection of the Constitution of Dominica.
How does the UWPwee insisting on seeing proof that the President actually did say that he intends to leave office protect the Constitution? What part of the Constitution is under threat by the PM not showing the Opposition that letter?
I mean, how do you arrive at these wild and illogical conclusions?
Actually, if we were to proceed on this matter as the Constitution, i.e wait for a resignation letter, we would have a Constitutional crisis. Both the Opposition and Cabinet recognize this deficiency in the Constitution. The difference between the two sides is that one is trying to move beyond this hurdle and the other is dancing around it.
So Peeping, Are you advocating an amendment to the Constitution as is? Are you saying that our Constitution is not working as a living document in our modern democracy? Are you saying that the Constitution is so deficient that there are NO other way of doing the right thing other than violating its provisions? Isn’t there anything that we can do within the parameters of the Constitution to do this right while preserving the integrity of the Constitution until amended?
Let’s suppose that we accept your argument, is there not any other constitutional provision that can be effected to achieve our objective while we respect the spirit of the Constitution?
Constitutional provision aside.. What about the procedures, interpretations, and conduct of our leaders? Should the President write directly to the PM? Shouldn’t he have written to the Speaker? What can’t the PM share the purported letter with the Opposition? Why is the President so silent on his own vacancy? etc. etc.
You see Peeping..you are pulling strands of hair ..Let’s take a broader and more holistic view of the issue if you are sincere in engaging in a debate beyond your partisan interest
Peeping TOM
I don’t live in dominica and presently i am not sure whether the president are voluntarily resigning or are being forced to or fired. Therefore if its the later then we need reason for his terminination and if its the former a resignation letter will suffice.
Think the opposition is right to ensure that the process is transparent for all.
i am sure it won’t take a day to make the process right. so why can’t we just to the right thing and move on.
ROSEAU VALLEY: «So Peeping, Are you advocating an amendment to the Constitution as is?» I am all for fixing segments of the Constitution that need to be fixed. In this case, there is clearly a deficiency. We must remedy this. I would not run along and conclude what you have, viz «our Constitution is not working as a living document in our modern democracy», etc.?
ROSEAU VALLEY: «Isn’t there anything that we can do within the parameters of the Constitution to do this right while preserving the integrity of the Constitution until amended?» This is an important question. The thing is, if there is, I have not yet heard anyone articulate that alternative route.
ROSEAU VALLEY: «Should the President write directly to the PM? Shouldn’t he have written to the Speaker? What can’t the PM share the purported letter with the Opposition? Why is the President so silent on his own vacancy?» These questions are secondary and at times irrelevant and they only serve to cloud the real issues, which are the deficiency noted and the fact the H.E Liverpool has to be replaced soon. All the talk about to whom should the President have expressed his intention has no bearing on these issues. Furthermore, nowhere in the Constitution does it state that the President has to express his intent to vacate to the Speaker. No. He must resign to the Speaker, but nothing obliges him to indicate his desire to step down some time in the future to her. So, frankly, let us not waste time running around the real issues in a pathetic attempt at trying to appear relevant.
I now hear that the Opposition refuses to nominate its «someone from our side» for the Presidency unless the PM provides that letter. Honestly, ROSEAU VALLEY, tell the UWPwee that its refusal is actually a very good move for it and for our democracy, considering its choice for nomination. It is simply saving itself from further disgrace by not nominating that candidate.
TED Lewis: «Think the opposition is right to ensure that the process is transparent for all.» Oh, I will support the Opposition in seeking transparency every time. However, TED, transparency is much less of an issue here except in the minds of those who wish to make it one. How do they do so? The PM has said that he was informed by the President of the latter’s intent to vacate office. Now, do you really suppose that the PM would publicly make a statement like this if this were not true? I mean, come on! Inherent in the Opposition’s insistence on first seeing proof of that intent is an insult to both the PM and H.E Excellency. Well, frankly, such a posture must be met with a fitting response, i.e. ignore it.
I say it is about time to get t work and stop playing games.
Will these guys stop it? They are getting caught up in all these technicalities and it is getting them nowhere. The same thing with the citizenship foolishness. They were trying to unseat a prime minister who was born and raised in Dominica. Someone who everybody recognized is a born and bred Dominican.
The UWP needs to focus on things the average Joe is conerned about, like more jobs and improving the economy. All this other nonsense are just distractions.
and that’s exactly why Dominica is where it’s at today. With that mentality of yours…and many others.
By the way ADMIN, which rule of the DNO House of Assembly did my comment go against?
Do you think an unemployed poor person gives a rats behind about these technical mumbojumbo? people are concerned about their day to day livelihoods, not all this nonsense UWP is wasting time fighting. That is the bottom line. Until they can articulate a position that convinces Dominicans they will be better off under an UWP administration, they will never see the halls of power.
I am a sportsman and I amway believe that unless there is an infraction of the rules that is material to the results, may the better team win on the field of play.
Criminals staging daylight robery and attempted murder on police officers and now out on bail walking the streets….under equiped hospitals with frustrated educated personnel who can’t effectively diagnose ailments due to lack of proper resources….cost of living going through the roof…basic utility bills cripling the nation…
…and with all this going on in the country THIS IS THE BULL$*it UWP want to spend their time on??!!
UWP are just digging their grave deeper and deeper. They are an embarassment. Even if I agree with what they say about the presidential office and all that, they are not giving adequate time to relevant issuses! or maybe, they just don’t look upon the issues above as being ‘relevant’.
Read what you have written again. Ask yourself what is the role of the government vis-a-vis the Opposition.
Whose responsibility it is to be concerned about the fact that “ criminals staging daylight robbery and attempted murder on police officers and now out on bail walking the streets….under equipped hospitals with frustrated educated personnel who can’t effectively diagnose ailments due to lack of proper resources….cost of living going through the roof…basic utility bills crippling the nation……and with all this going on in the country”- the government still want to abuse and disrespect our constitution.
Please be clear who has the responsibility to do what in dominica.
Yeap-THIS IS THE BS and Dominicans should not stand for it. Therefore, the UWP must spend time dealing with all these issues that you have mentioned plus the continued disrespect of the Constitution.
Thin thing Is, this is what was said when the UWP raised the issue of the illegitimacy of the nomination/election of the PM, the sale of passports to criminals, the appointment of foreign ambassadors, the garbage bin Bobol, the Fertilizer Bolbol, the ownership of the Villas etc. Whatever the UWP talks about – you all say the same thing. When the UWP doe not speak, you criticize them.
POOR UWP-
If this is the person I think he is. This is the same guy who calls for accountability and keeping leaders in check so that laws and rules are not broken.
These upcoming labour spin doctors are something else.
Nice Piper Nice. WAY TO GO IDIOT. The government to keep focusing on scheming lying and cheating the country while the opposition to focus on jobs, growing the economy.
So Piper you are so right considering every thing is upside down inside out. Dude you are a genius to make such a timely argument!!!!!!!!!
Piper, with all due respect, your contribution is the type that will continue to keep Dominica at the bottom of the political and constitutional abyss in which we have found ourselves.
If you have any understanding of what these issues are, you would realize that it is the government that violated the constitutional provisions and repeatedly disrespect the people of Dominica. It is the government that must stop violating the constitution, insulting our intelligence and abusing the ignorance of people like you.
It is the government that has sought to introduce incorrect procedures, wild and extraneous interpretations of our constitutional provisions and triggered the conduct an unlawful process for the replacement of the President.
You refer to the citizenship case as “foolishness”. Well, again, you seem uninformed in arguing that “They are trying to unseat a prime minister who was born and raised in Dominica. Someone who everybody recognized is a born and bred Dominican”.
This is your opinion and I respect it. But you will realize that you are wrong in due course. Let the process continue as it is before the Court of Appeal. Hopefully, after 13 November 2012, we will know whether the efforts of the UWP were in vain and foolish. The fact is whatever the outcome of that case, the OECS would have a richer and more developed jurisprudence with regard to election petitions. (*See my 5 part series on “thedominican.net)
If I may advise you, the UWP is focusing on what it ought to be focused on. It is the Labour Party government with an 18-3 majority that is responsible for focusing on improving our standard of life, the average Joe concerns of jobs, high prices in the super markets, improving the economy and the good name of our country. It is the government –Piper who is doing all the nonsense and distracting the nation from reaching its true potentials.
Why dont you come out froom hiding and reveal yourself?
Thank you for asking. But I am not in hiding. I have already revealed myself and continue to do so in my contributions. If you focus on the quintessential points being debated – you will see me – you will know me .. you will know what I stand for. That is me. Telling you that I am John James or Mary Jules or Peter George from Cockrane does not add value to the discussion.
I am a Dominican citizen. Born and bred in the beautiful ROSEAU VALLEY. I am Dominic. ARE YOU?
I really do not think the Prime Minister has any ill intent in this matter. I also think that the opposition is raising some salient points. I call on the Dominica Bar Association to speak to the legal issues on this matter. Thats how the public will learn.
Pondera,
Maybe you are right. Perhaps the Prime Minister may have been well intent in this mater. I too –was prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt. But it is based on his past conduct, his habitual lies, display of arrogance and the repeated disrespect of the Speaker and the President over the years to the Opposition that signal the bad intent, coupled with the loud mummified silence on fundamental constitutional mattes that cause me to believe that they are all insincere.
I am glad that you recognize that the UWP is raising some salient points in defense of our constitution and country. I agree with you that it would be useful to hear the voice of the Bar Association on this matter but do not hold your breath. The public can and has learnt by voicing their concerns through various media, as you and I are doing. We can read the constitution for ourselves and apply our own common sense.
Sometimes you do not need lawyers to complicate things more than they already are, especially when the issues are so clear as daylight.
The Dominican upper class prefers its citizens dumb regarding the basic issues about the law so that they can continuously be manipulated in a court of law.
If there is no ill intended then the honorable thing to do is swallow his pride and do the right thing. Be fair to the people and respectful of the constitution.
please we don’t need a president/this is money throwing away,a prime minister is enough.all this men do is sit and look important.and by the way why do we really need a president?the prime ministers are the only ones begging for the country.
Marcel,
Your contribution is well appreciated. However, let’s remain focus on the topic. This is about the reaction/response of the UWP to the process of election of a new president. The current discussion is not about whether or not we need a president.
I guess it is possible to have two presidents, the palace is big enough for two of them. Dictatorship is a tough pill to swallow, but thats why we have 365 rivers. here is my advice, take the pill and stand underneath trafalgar falls and open your mouth and down it will go
Unfortunately, the people of the ROSEAU VALLEY has already drank this Labour Party pill, which is now choking us, having been paid a lot of free dollars to do so. Fortunately, we still have the beautiful Trafalgar falls, the attractive Midland falls, all our lakes and sulphur springs intact.
But our natural resources are not used for committing political suicide, They are used to create sustainable jobs for our people, generate increased national wealth and potential geothermal energy- as soon as we flush out that pill taken 4 years ago.
I just read Section 24 and 119 as Mr. John indicated and saw one issue that can debated. That is, the president should have written to the Speaker rather than the PM. Everything else that he says is “null and void”. Mr. John has once again displayed his ignorance of the Constitution. It’s time that he stops penning his name to other people writing.
Take it easy here ??????????
Remember that Article 24 of the Constitution provides for the removal of the President from office pursuant to Section 25 of the where 3 specific conditions exist;
a. the House proposes the removal of the President from office on grounds of complaint
b. a tribunal consisting of the Chief Justice and two other judges of the Supreme Court appointed by the Chief Justice investigate the complaint and makes a report on the facts to the House; and
c. the House, after considering the report, by resolution supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the members of the House declares that the President shall be removed from office.
None of teh above exists here. Therefore, Section 24 is completely irrelevant under the current circumstances.
I would humbly advise you to keep reading the Constitution and put everything in context from the provisions of Article 98 (i-iv), Article 28 and Article 119 etc. Once you have done so in earnest, try not to limit your understanding to the words but the spirit/intent of the constitutional provisions and what it means to do things the right way in a democracy.
Does Mr. John know that? Apparently he is relying on Section 24. You just proved my point. He is incompetent.
Could we stop focusing on individuals and focus on the issue before us. Forget Mr. John et al. Let’s read and understand the constitutional provisions. This is what ROSEAU VALLEY is all about. Therefore, rather than simply giving a thumps down —thank you for your kind comments and let’s keep an honest debate alive.
I think you all are missing the point. The letter to the Prime Minister was to give him a heads up that he will be resigning. The President is a Legal person don’t u think he would know that he would have to resign thru the speaker. I keep asking myself why does the Opposition Leader makes himself look so foolish. There was not a vacany but u went ahead and had consultation with the Prime Minister and even hinted at having a nominee. What does this say? That u had initially agreed with what was happening until Edison and Lennox stepped in he started to sing a different song. Hector be a man and stop being a puppet. There is nothing wrong with the procedure which is taking place right now. Would u have preferred the President to submit his resignation to the Speaker and not inform the Prime Minister thus leavin the PM scrambling for candidates. I mean come on………
What is happening in Dominica our beautiful Island can’t we all come together and do things right how can those in authority brake the LAWs of the land and get away with it we have a CONSTITUTION and expect our people especially the young people to respect them or abide within the law we have to stop and think about what we are doing this is not party things it’s the highest office in the land we are talking about the survival of our land do the right thing those are the reasons why D’CANS dont want a President
And I’m calling on Mr.Williams do not accept the position untill the process is followed in accordance with the CONSTITUTION and only at that time you will get the respect of the people.
MM,
You are on point. Your call on Mr. Williams is in order, especially as the Opposition is no longer playing the game of the government. The only way that Mr. Williams can be a legitimate and respected President is if the constitutional process is strictly adhered to. I know that power can blind and absolutely corrupt honorable men but let’s hope that Mr. Williams will remain true to his character.
If he were to be elected based on the current process, I, as a Citizen of Dominica, will personally challenge his election in court as unconstitutional and unlawful.
Mr. William, Mr. Dyer or whoever is nominated to serve as President must take note that if elected under the ongoing process, the tenure of the next President would be unconstitutional and null and void. Therefore, until this matter is satisfactorily dealt with Mr. Williams should not accept or revoke the nomination of the Prime Minister.
i believe that there are times in life when we have to strike a compromise for the better of the country and not make everything into a battle……………just my thought.
I respect your thought….but what is the compromise that you reference? Continue to accept the repeated violation of our constitution?
You know what! it is time that we begin to do the right things, the right way, at the right time and by the right people with the authority to act.
Let’s stop making excuses and call for compromise when we know that we are acting improperly but continue nevertheless with disrespect of others in a show of arrogance in unnecessary controversy and unwinnable battles.
This is not up for negotiation, that is why the constitution was produced, clearly structured to avoid confusion/mis-interpretation and a process to follow.
madam speaker don”t understand her roll in the house.
Lnky,
No- She does understand. It depends on what you think is her role. In fact, she is doing a great job in her role as the frustrating agent of the government and the facilitator of the Labour Party’s disrespect for our constitution. She brings pleasure to the government and its supporters for humiliating the Opposition and for ensuring that she maintains her legacy as the worse Speaker of the House ever in Dominica.
I fully agree.
Oh my god do we really need a president. The president under our current system of government is just a symbol sucking the scarce resources of the country.
Oh my God,how can so many lawyers be wrong in interpreting the law? If the UWP have a fundamental difference with the situation (interpretation of the constitution) then they must go to the High Court for clarification. Because one one side there is an interpretation and on the other side there is another interpretation. It is the High Court that is legally mandated to provide that proper opinion. The airwaves of any radio station where opinions are voiced (opinions that are devoid of any training in law) are not the authority for clarifying the issue.
I just knew that you would come up with some silly response! Well, I too only have 4 GCE and a birth certificate to my name but that in no way prevents me from reading and understanding what I have read. In this matter there is only one interpretation of the constitutional proveision and that is what the opposition and the esteemed Mr. Lennox Linton has presented. What skerritt has presented, if he presented anything, is his “OPINION” of what should be done which is not based on any legal training of knowledge. Given your resent personal experience in the court do you honestly believe that the court is the best place to seek an answer? I bet you are not comvinced! So you can try as hard as you like but you’ll never get what you’re after because what you are doing here just demonstrates to skerritt how dishonest a person you really are.
never mind the spelling errors, ok Observer.
Pap Dom,only the High Court of Dominca can legally interprete the constitution. Each one of us have our understanding of what the constitution says. In a situation where we cannot agree on what we read and understand in the constitution (even if is the same section), the ONLY AUTHORITY for assisting us understand what the constitution says, is the High Court. Is that hard to understand? Papa Dom, ask a lwayer. Don’t take my word for it. here is an opportunity to learn soemthing new. Imagine life in Dominica, if all of us were authorized to interprete the constitution as we see fit, as we feel or as we understand? What a society that would be.
It was you who mentioned Lennox Linton’s understanding of the provision’s of the constitution as the ONLY way to read it. Guess what I respectfully disagree with you. Because Lennox himself has to depend on the court for explaining to him such issues as libel and slander as against Freedom of Expression and the people’s right to know. It is the same law of defamation that his lawyer and Pinard Byrne’s lawyer went before a court of law and argue. The court listened to both sides and then made a judgement. Sometimes he win, as in his deportation case from Antigua and in many instances he loses, because what he undertsands the constitution to say about his right to freedom of expression is not what the constitution is actually saying. In the end we do not have to agree to the judgement, but it is the law. You think criminals wouldn’t want the right to interprete the law as they wish or understand? I am certainly not saying that mr. Linton is a criminal. I have no such evidence, even if I disagree with much of his political work.
What you are saying then? Where a difference of opinion exists as presently exists regarding the constitution, is that the person who is best at articulating the issue and spends the most time on radio doing the same thing over and over again is right and always right?
Here is a free advice my friend. There is still some time left, more than 24 hours before the nominations under the existing process closes. YOUR side of the argument has I suppose numerous constitutional lawyers (not Lennox) availabel to you. You can go ahead and file an injunction in the High Court seeking judicial review of the present process of selecting the next President. Once the injunction is filed, the process stops and cannot continue. Then we all go to the High Court to hear the arguments on both sides of the isssue and wait for the Court to decide. The courty usually act quickly on matters of injunctions. What is instructive too is that political arguments willlnot be entertained in the arguments. All argumments have to depend on the law, not what Spaggs or eddy or Tony or Skerrit of Madame Speaker say. ALL ARGUMENTS MUST BE BASED ON THE LAW.
I am sure the UWP’s President Designate can start the process. he is eminently qualified to do so.
So everything –take it to court and let it remain there unresolved for years. Do you really think that this is the answer? Can’t we as a people figure things out and ensure that we do things the right way?
And why is it you all always seem to attack our radio personalities? At least they are expressing their views for the people to decide – while those who have all the training and experience remain silent.
We still live in a society that is ruled by laws. When we differ (as opionated as we are) we seek a mediator because we cannot agree on what is the right way. That mediator will interpret the laws and make a ruling which we all are expected to observe. In the absence of which chaos will reign. That legal mediator is the High Court, not the talkshows as important as they are in the practice/pursuit of our democratic right to freely express ourselves.
In this instant matter there is obviously a misunderstanding and we need to get an impartial legal opinion on the matter where we all can live even if we do not agree wih the decision.
I am sure this matter will not remain unresolved for years if it is filed as an injunction. Try it and I am sure you will see the benefit.
HJear me. Nothing you and I and others say in this blog will prove any side right. The opposition will cry foul, seek to put boots on the streets of Roseau (to no avail) on one hand and on the other hand, the governement will go ahead as it see fit based on legal advice and have its way anyway. Remember it is 18-3. When Eddy was on stage it was 12-9 and he had his way in appointing a “black” President who proved to be a good president. The point is, you and I will continue to disagree, but that will not solve anything concerning the present difference of opinion over the appointment of the next President.
No president no state house…….
Well let’s see whether Mr. Liverpool will show some respect to the people of Dominica and as a goodwill gesture, before he goes off to enjoy his healthy gratuity and very generous pension respond to the opposition; afterall he has nothing to lose. If like Observer, peeping tom and the other one from Grandbay are suggesting, his good name and character is being bragged through the mud, then now is the time to redeem his self. Let him show his true metal and intellectual genius by providing us with an honest, professional opinion on the process embarked on by Skerrit and Alix knight to replace him.
Why do we have a spirit of rebellion in this country? Why do I say this? People look around in the world and all the uprising and wars are as a result of rebellion.
Let us open our eyes. What is happenning is that some persons in our society are instigating and opposing everything so that the persons in the land become confused and frustrated and disgruntled.
Do we want wars in our country? No of course not. Let us therefore pray for peace in our country. Let us pray for our leaders that God gives them and ourselves wisdom.
Mr John why oppose and create a mountain out of everything that is done in the country and which follows the constitution. Everything you look for ways and means (seems you do not sleep coniving and planning). Mr Sir please try to be a model leader for the youths of this country. Time to stand up and be a leader not one who is influenced by others in the background. If you want to be a tommorrow leader, you need to do your best and not that majee.
Seek God and ask for his wisdom. The opposition is slowly loosing popularity and why???? No plans nor answers on how to move forward just sowing the seeds of deceit and creating dissention amongst the people so we can have wars etc. All you are doing is creating sensation and the country does not need that kind of excitement. Now is the time for working and moving forward looking at strategies since we all know that the whole world yes the whole world is going through a financial or economic downturn.
Hector you need to grow up in your thinking and do what is required of you.
O Father we do not want wars oin this country nor any wrath to fall on this country. We repent of our sins and most in our sins of drawing attention to ourselves especially when we should be drawing attention to you and you and you alone. Forgive us in this land. We also have been unthankful for so many good things in our land. Thank you for all what youhave done for us in this land Dominica. You have preserved us from storms during this time. You have given clean air, Fresh water and lots of food. Thank you for some many things that you have done for us as a Nation. Bless all our leaders and we commit them to you. Give them all wisdom and understanding that they will seek you first before making decision. Set them free from the clutches of the Evil One and as they turn and receive you, give them the Holy Spirit to guide them. You word states that you will never leave us nor forsake us and you have also said that greater things we will see in our times so that Glory and Honour will always belong to you. Sow love amongst our people in the Name of Jesus. Amen, Amen and Amen
We hear that theme every Saturday in Pottersville
without fail. (choclate covered s..t )
and how exactly do you know that Mr. John did not seek God’s wisdom in this matter? or how do you know that skerritt sought God’s guidance when he decided to do what he did? From your comment I take it that you consider youself to be a christian, in that case please reflect on this “[17] Tell us therefore what dost thou think? Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? [21] ……………. Then he saith to them: Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God, the things that are God’s.”
If you understand biblical interpretation of this you must know that God requires us to follow law and order and so far skerritt has demonstrated a rebellious attitude toward law and order. This tells me that he is the one who needs to seek divine guidance.
Please what are you saying? Who are you praying to? I do not understand your misapplied political and religious logic of .”spirit of rebellion in this country……uprising and wars” etc, etc.
How does a request for following the constitution of Dominica a call for war when it is the Prime Minister who has long declared war on the constitution and laws of Dominica? How is the exercise of our constitutional right and debating a matter of constitutional importance considered violence and warfare?
Are you accusing the UWP of causing persons in the land to become confused, frustrated and disgruntled or the government?
I thank God for the wisdom to discern the truth and pray that he will anoint you with the same wisdom that you seek.
I am afraid to advise you that on this matter Mr. John is displaying leadership. He is the grown up in the room of power hungry political boys. He is doing what is required of him- just as you are respectfully doing what is required of you as a Dominica in expressing your personal view. So I join you in pray.
O Father we do not want wars in this country nor any wrath to fall on this country. We ask that our leaders in government turn away from their ways and ensure we are once again beneficiaries of good and accountable governance.
Open the eyes of our citizens. Forgive them for remaining so blind to the evil that beset them. We thank you Lord for the many gifts that you have bestowed on us. Thank you for all what you have done for us in this land Dominica, including the gift of your wisdom to challenge those who wish to destroy us.
We commit our leaders to you. Touch their hearts and defeat the beast of arrogance and power that control their conduct. Give them all wisdom and understanding that they need –even when they do not seek it- before making nonsensical and unlawful decisions that only serve to upset the people.
Set them free from the clutches of the evil on which they were elected. Your word states that you will never leave us nor forsake us and you have also said that greater things we will see in our times so that Glory and Honour will always belong to you and not those who wish to be King and almighty leaders. Sow love amongst our people in the Name of Jesus. Amen, Amen and Amen
Forgive Spaggs. This is not his doing. Spaggs is the latest of political puppets. He moves whenever the Great and lord, master of a all knowledge from Morne Danieland the other one form Monkey Hill” speaks.
Everyonme agrees that the constitution is not very explicit as to how the process should go. Itis a given. The opposition agree on that too. However the opposition is holding on to its position that there must be resignation first before the process starts. That is a reasonable position. But to go on and demand that the process is moved along in exactly the manner yopu want it, or else or hell break loose, is being less than hones. We all agree that the rules and procedures atre lacking. What happens in a situation where the President dies suddenly? God forbid. Who institute the process for a replacement? Is the process for selecting a new President provided for in the present constitution? Yes, we have done it before when Degazon fled the country amidst a constitutional crisis? Was the procedure used to select a new President constitutional?
Can we accept that the sitting President (fro wahtever reason) is no longer able to continue as head of state. He is a constitutional lawyer.None of those who have expressed a partisan positiononthe matter have any training in law. However thjey take their cue from soemone who is an auhtority on every subject, but absolutleuy no formal training in anything. Some tiem ago the President did hold back on a law that was passed in parliament (cannot now remember the subject)owing to its unconstitutional nature. Government had to return to parliament to fix it up. The same President came in for much praise from the opposition because the government had failed in this regard.
This is the same constitutional expert (President Liverpool)who today we seemingly have little regard for. Shouldn’t we give the President some credits. After all, apart form the partisan vitriol, there is no hard evidence to indicate that the President has done anything legally wrong.
The High Court is the pl;ace for us (everybody) to go and seek clarification on matters of the constitution. The constitution provides that the High is the only authority to arbitrate on such issues. No radio talk show, callers to the program, bloggers etc. have any authority to explain away the constitution. The opposition can stop the this present process from going any further. Tommorrow is the deadline for submission of nominations. The Opposition can apply to the High Court today for an injuction to stop the process and so get a constitutional review of the present process. Jdging form last week euphoria after the Nevis Court ruling, the opposition have now regain their confidence in the judiciary of the eastern Caribben Court.
Despite waht soem say, we still live in a civilized society rule by laws and not men. Imagine if wedid not have laws here? Let us stop creating a stir in the country. Everything is fraught along party lines. Gladly for Dominica, the people have not yet reposed much confidenc in the alternative to Mr. Skerrit. That is why every issue is so political. Yet still the other side just keep carrying on as though that one man among them, even without a constituency is the “holier than holy”, creator of all that is truth and righteousness and devoid of any skeletons. Time will tell. The campaign is coming if not yet started.
Everything Skerrit does looks shaddy, why not follow the right channel and call it a day
Try to see beyond «Skerrit» for at least once.
Do you really believe that «Skerrit» even gives himself that much significance as many of you attribute to him? Hon. Skerrit is one man like you and I. When he leaves office, Dominica will still be here and the current issues with our Constitution will still exist if he and the Opposition do not correct them.
So, do not be so obsessed with one man. He is only that…ONE man!
I agree with you Peeping. It seems great minds think alike, albeit I think yours is greater than mine. You are the brightest mind on DNO by far.
But you are right. It ought not be all about Mr. Skerrit.. Hence the reason, I would like to hear from one of the other Ministers or government advisors. Unfortunately, we don’t/ We only hear from his almighty Skerrit. The others are too afraid to speak.
Unfortunately, as your last manifesto indicated and as was proclaimed at the last elections, it is all about Skerro. The names and background of the other candidates did not matter. People were voting for Skerrit. If Skerrit sucks up all the praise and glory why shouldn’t he also be prepared to take the blows.
As you correctly stated though –w hen he leaves office (hopefully sooner rather than later), Dominica will still be here and hopefully by then we would have addressed the current issues with our Constitution when a new government takes office. So, like you said, we should not be so obsessed with Skerrit – even if he thinks the world revolves around him.
ROSEAU VALLEY: “Unfortunately, as your last manifesto indicated and as was proclaimed at the last elections, it is all about Skerro. The names and background of the other candidates did not matter. People were voting for Skerrit. If Skerrit sucks up all the praise and glory why shouldn’t he also be prepared to take the blows.”
It is a feature today of most parliamentary democracies that the political leader of the party is offered a the image and embodiment of the party he/she leads.
Arrgghhh!!! Will this ever end? So fed up with politics right now. uwp really need a new direction because their current one is detrimental to the party. The party getting worse than a woman on pms. At least women have it once a month, this is constant from uwp. Dominica need another political party, and pronto. Because these guys just handing labour the next election. I’m still waiting for policies. How can I vote for uwp with no roadmap for the future? Tell me something, show me how you will secure funding, build infrastructure, make education top priority while creating jobs for the educated and skilled alike, how you will reduce the crime rate. That is what I want to hear. Don’t tell me nothing about skerrit nor his cronies. I am fully aware of their dramas already, I live in it. So what? I just have to vote you in and hope for the best? Come on guys! You all are educated men.
The Truth ,
From your point its seems that you are aware of the prevailing issues affecting Dominica.
question: what are the DLP medium plann to improve all the economic isssues you listed in your comment. Moreover can you please indicate to me whether the employment rate in dominica is being reduced under your current administration and are there jobs in dominica currently for skilled workers like myself to return home . Are the wages being paid in dominica sufficient enough to attrack its skilled dominicans and dominicans students sent to abroad to study , to return back home.
Has this administration improve the manufacturing sector . have we been able to improve our market share in the tourism industry. Has this administartion put in a workable plann to combat crime .
These are the question you should be asking the ruling party who have all enriched themselves over the past ten years while the masses stay behind.
So tell me. is it ok for the ruling party not to have a sound macro economic plan but the opposition must have one.
by the way its the only contry on this earth that i see individuals pay disregard to the constitution. What may seems small may have huge long in the long term by which time its more difficult to correct.
The PM has an attorney general to advise on these matters and ensure certain procedures are followed. i can’t see anything hard in following this procedures. is not like the president suddenly dead and you need someone immediately so some shortcuts is neeeded.
something is really strange here.
Ted boy, you again???? Why don’t you stay and try to deal with your issues in Antigua before putting your mouth in things down here??? Behave yourself partner.
Yeh Yeh Yeh Truth you are so smart. What I heard from you is what I call LOGIC BOOWICK. UWP had performance but they were corrupt; Skerrit has mass corruption and terrible performance so we must keep Skerrit. Wow what a road map (lol).Sound like an argument that I heard from a laborat- ” I know labor eh doing anything form Dominica but I doh know what edisson will do so I rather vote labar”. Now that is LOGIC SIWIK
What a bunch of Sour grapes. Hector John should be replaced and get someone who is capable of doing the job. For crying out loud.
But wait nuh,,, has anyone really dissected the whole concept of the House of parliament???
Who Elected mamzelle and how long she been there nuh, as Speaker of the house,,,
As though anybody wiff a name like “Boyd Night” should not be in-charge of any aspects of government on Lands which was once freely ran by indigenous folks,,,
Rally against the regime [|riˈZHēm, rā- | noun
a government, esp. an authoritarian one] and get this Chick out of that office,,,
Mr. John doesn’t have to tell the Speaker that the nomination is null and void. She knows that because she is a lawer and must have friends who are legally minded in constitutional law.The Speaker along with Skerrit strives on roro.It appears as though that is a political way of life to them. We cannot forget the part they played in the firing of Mr. James and Mr. John from the house as parliamentarians.We cannot forget the requesting of the sergeant of arms in the house to throw the UWP parliamentarians from the house.We cannot forget their refusal to accept parliamentary motions put before the house by members of the UWP. Therefore, the blatant disregard of the constitution by Skerrit and the speaker is no new thing to the people of Dominica.
Agreed. Due process is needed
What utter rubbish. Of all the issues that needs addressing in terms of advancement of this nation, you mean to tell me is that petty crap these guys find to make an issue? Don’t you believe the President would have already come out to contradict the PM if it wasn’t the case that he had signalled his intentions to resign? What’s the big fuss then? So if and when that letter that John and co. are asking for is presented to them, will it be the end of the matter or will they then move to look at ways to try and figure out a constitutional reason why the nominee of the post shouldn’t be placed in that position??
…and then you guys wonder why the majority of Dominicans don’t take you seriously!!!!!!
Whoever you are, please do not remain Anonymous, make your self be known, so we know who this idiot is. And if you do represent the majority of Dominicans, nous fini bat
Forgive me for referring to your contribution as “utter rubbish” in the honourable words of the former Commissioner……yeah.. Why should it matter that our Constitution is being violated by the government over and over again? . What rubbish. Among, all the issues that needs addressing in terms of advancement of this nation, nothing surpasses the protection of our Constitution. What rubbish!! Eh!
You mean to tell me that once again, we treat our constitution like it is some petty crap that the government can handle like a football. What rubbish you say.
Please, tell me why the President has not come out to contradict the UWP and its foolish supporters? Better yet, why hasn’t he expressed a statement in support of the PM’s conduct- the legal luminary that he is?
What’s the big fuss then if you do not appreciate and understand the fundamental importance of following the constitution and see those who fight to protect it as foolish.
No! it will not be the end of the matter even if the letter is produced because the whole process is unconstitutional.
My dear friend, your irrational argument is rubbish (forgive me). This is no reason to suggest that Dominicans do not take the UWP seriously. Dominicans are serious about a lot of issues since the last election. The 18-3 is like balance sheet information. “as at December 2009”. Since then a lot has changed…Just wait and see.
Wishful thinking ‘Roseay Valley” you and your blue party will continue to remain in the dustbin of political oblivion.So just take a chill pill and come out of your dream world!!!!!!
@ Anonymous It’s ignorant people like you that has the country in the terrible state in which it is in today. A state where the constitution of OUR land is driven to the gutter, and you see nothing wrong with that. Poor you! But then maybe you are one of those who are benefiting from all the corruption that is going on , so you see everything that is done to the state as right.POOR YOU!
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm! something happening and I smell a Big Rat.
Assertive, NOT Agressive!
Is that all? Are proceedings being commenced under the jurisdiction of the constitutional court in this matter?
They think that they are smarter than everyone. It is time that we the people have a say and the issues pertaining to the country is delt with and done in the proper manner. Well done OPPOSITION. You have my support all the way.
So they think. We are stupid and they are smart. Okay. We will test this theory then- when people like you and me decide that we are not taking it anymore. Let’s get up. Let’s stand up and say no- We shall not accept it. We may not be as smart as they are but we smart enough to know that we are better than that and we shall not accept it anymore. Let’s take it to the streets and carry the message to every home that we deserve better. We have it in us to do better.