Marigot MP demands resignation of DASPA CEO in response to lawsuit; calls for accountability and an end to victimization

Parliamentary Representative of the Marigot Constituency, Anthony Samora Charles, currently embroiled in a legal dispute with Benoit Bardouille, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dominica Air and Sea Port Authority (DASPA), is demanding the resignation of Bardouille, citing allegations of victimization not only against himself but against members of his family and constituents.

The dispute stems from an interview conducted by the Marigot MP with “Emonews,” during which Charles made certain statements that Bardouille’s legal team argues, are both maliciously false and defamatory.

In a pre-action protocol letter to Charles dated July 31, 2023, Bardouille’s attorney, Lennox Lawrence sought an apology and an immediate retraction of the statement on all media in Dominica, financial compensation for the injury to his client’s reputation for $350,000.00, and reimbursement of legal fees of $500.00.

Charles, however, failed to meet the seven-day demand deadline. Consequently, the DAPA CEO, on September 13, 2023,  filed a suit at the High Court in Roseau, in which Bardouille is seeking damages inclusive of exemplary and aggravated damages for “defamation by libel and slander.”

In his Statement of Claim, Bardouille states that his reputation has been “seriously damaged and he has suffered considerable distress and embarrassment” by the comments of Charles who has not denied the said statements in a pre-action letter sent to him.

Bardouille also states that the said allegations of “criminality” have injured his personal and professional reputation not only in Dominica but more so, regionally and internationally before persons, and regional and international organizations particularly concerned with drug trafficking, airport security and safety for air travel.

He is also seeking an injunction to restrain Charles whether by himself his servants, agents or otherwise, from publishing further and republishing or causing to be published, the said or similar statements or words, defamatory of the Claimant.

However, in a recent statement, Charles expressed his commitment to transparency, the well-being of his constituents, and the overall betterment of Dominica. He stressed his dedication to breaking free from what he terms “MADNESS” in the political arena, and shared the struggles of his almost one-year journey thus far.

“I came with optimism, an open mind, open hands, a willing heart, and all smiles to work with this present Government. However, this is proving to be very difficult as my efforts to represent my people has place my family and I again in the line of political fire,” Charles asserts.

The Marigot MP acknowledges the historical struggles of his family members including his father, Richard Charles, who, along with attorney Kondwani Williams, over fifteen years ago, were appointed as electoral commissioners. According to Charles, as electoral commissioners, they faced criticism for their impartial stance aimed at improving the electoral laws for the greater good of Dominica. Despite their efforts, electoral reform remains elusive, a fact that Charles attributes to the reluctance of those in power to embrace positive change.

Charles sees his current situation as an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of the people he represents. He pledges to use his platform to address human rights concerns, condemn victimization, and work towards a better future, particularly for the vulnerable members of society.

The MP also takes a strong stance against the alleged mistreatment of women by powerful figures within and outside the parliament. He singled out the Attorney General, Levi Peter, accusing him of contributing to the prevailing “MADNESS” and undermining the highest level of governance. Charles calls for the removal or resignation of those in power who engage in what he deems atrocious behaviour.

“We will stand with the hard-working women of our country, especially those who have and continue to offer themselves to serve. The attacks that are continually launched on the people of Dominica are not just done by political agents against political opponents but against ordinary working men and women by individuals close to the incumbent Government in positions of power,” he declared.

Furthermore, Charles drew attention to the broader issue of alleged victimization faced by ordinary citizens, citing examples such as the unjust dismissal of Vescort Jones over nine years ago. He expressed solidarity with those who have been targeted and called for an end to the persecution of hardworking individuals in Dominica.

In addressing the lawsuit filed against him, Charles vehemently asserts his right to speak the truth and claims the legal action is an attempt to silence him and prevent him from standing up for what is right. He has called for the resignation or removal of Bardouille as the CEO of DASPA, and pledges to continue his fight for justice.

“In July of this year, the persecution launched at me were not left to just me, but they have been transferred to my wife as well an employee of DASPA who works as an Air Traffic Controller. She has been subjected to physical intimidation, victimization, verbal attacks, insults, ridicule, other atrocious situations and has been bounced from location to location, without proper compensation as the rules require,” he averred.

“While I know of this because it affects me personally I know of many more who have been experiencing this type persecution by people in power and are afraid to speak out because they fear that the persecution will get worse…it is time for the “MADNESS” TO STOP  NOW. – put an end to the victimization of the hardworking men and women of Dominica,” the young Marigot MP declared.

In conclusion, Charles says he remains resolute in his commitment to represent the people of Dominica and to advocate for positive change. As the legal battle unfolds, he vows not to back down in his pursuit of transparency, justice, and the empowerment of the people.

“I have recently come under attack by a Benoit lawsuit being charged with 350 thousand dollars for speaking the truth,” he posited. “This is an attempt to ensure that I am persecuted for speaking truth, not because there was any injury to anyone, but because someone feels that no one should have the right to speak, and I should not stand for what is right in support and defense of my people and their right to have a share in their own cake. “

“But this is not new,” he continued. “It is just another attempt at trying to use whatever opportunity to hinder an aspiring young man, to continue to disrespect, denigrate, and victimize from their position of power, the usual Modus Operandi. In this regard, I am also calling for the resignation or removal of Benoit Bardouille as CEO of DASPA and I will not rest until he resigns.”

The Mariot MP vows to continue his fight against injustice, insisting that “I Anthony Samora Charles will say it as it is, and no 350-thousand-dollar lawsuit will keep me quiet. It is Time for the “MADNESS” to come to an end.”

Below is the full statement of the Marigot Parliamentary Representative.

Download (PDF, 131KB)