Opposition Leader Jesma Paul-Victor has made it clear that her reappointment as Leader of the Opposition in Dominica’s House of Assembly was not influenced by any political allegiance or personal interest.
She was reappointed on Monday.
Paul-Victor, who represents the Salisbury constituency, was officially appointed on Monday, January 16, 2026, and took the prescribed oath of office today. We have not been able to independently verify this, however Dominica News Online (DNO) understands that her reappointment follows a letter to the President of Dominica from Marigot MP Anthony Charles – the only other elected opposition member – requesting that she be named to the position.
Both Paul-Victor and Charles entered parliament as independent candidates after winning seats in the December 20, 2022, snap general election. With only two opposition members elected, neither was able to command majority support among non-government MPs. To address this, they agreed to a power-sharing arrangement in which they would alternate as Leader of the Opposition.
“We, the elected members of parliament, Honourable Anthony Samora Charles and Honourable Jesma-Paul Victor, hereby inform the people of Dominica of our decision concerning the appointment of Honorable Jesma Paul-Victor as leader of the opposition in the House of Assembly,” she said during a statement. “After careful consideration of the present circumstances facing our country, we exercised our constitutional responsibility to support the appointment of the leader of the opposition.”
She continued, “This decision was not taken lightly, nor was it influenced by political allegiance or personal interest. It was guided solely by what we believe to be in the best interest of Dominica. “
According to Paul-Victor, Dominica is currently confronting significant economic and social challenges.
“In such periods, the effective functioning of democratic institutions is essential,” she stated. “The absence of a formally appointed legal public opposition would weaken and delete critical national processes.”
She asserted that Dominica cannot afford a prolonged vacancy in this important constitutional office.
“Our action ensures that Parliament continues to function in accordance with the Constitution. It enables the proper constitutional or statutory and constitutional bodies that require consultation with or input from the leader of the opposition,” Paul-Victor emphasized.
She went on to add that her appointment also facilitates the effective operation of parliamentary committees that strengthens debates, scrutiny, and accountability in the House of Assembly.
“Above all, it safeguards the people’s rights to representation, transparency, and good governance,” she asserted. “We recognize that this decision has generated public discussion and differing opinions.”
She said the opposition respects these views.
However, Paul-Victor pointed out that leadership sometimes requires difficult decisions that may not be universally understood or immediately accepted.
“We did not act to advance the interests of any political party. We acted to preserve the integrity and the continuity of the parliamentary system,” she remarked. “As independent representatives, we are not bound by party affiliation, our mandate is to serve our constituents and the wider public with honesty, fairness, and independent judgement.”
She said supporting the appointment of a leader of the opposition does not compromise that independence, “rather it reinforces our commitment to constitutional order and democratic stability.”
“We therefore emphasize that this decision does not align us with any political party. We remain independent in thought, voice, and action,” she stated.
Paul-Victor was first appointed on December 20, 2022, for an 18-month term. Her tenure was scheduled to end on June 19, 2024, at which point Charles was expected to assume the role. Paul-Victor submitted her resignation on June 20, 2024, but the President’s office reminded her that, under section 66 of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica, both opposition MPs were required to submit a joint letter indicating their choice of leader. Without this joint submission, Charles’ appointment could not proceed.
That month, Charles told Dominica News Online (DNO) that he was prepared to take up the leadership role and emphasized the importance of adhering to the agreed 18-month rotation. He also announced his membership in the newly formed United Progressive Party (UPP) and expressed plans to collaborate with other independent candidates from the last election.
Politicians always delivering half truths. Why was Mr. Charles not allowed get a turn as Opposition leader based on the previous arrangements? Perhaps a joint press conference with these two Reps is appropriate.
Good Point, I am sitting here asking the same question after reading all that jazz! @DNO did you not ask Opposition Leader Jesma Paul-Victor, “Why was Mr. Charles not allowed to get a turn as Opposition Leader based on the previous arrangements?” And please, what is the answer?
Politicians always delivering half truths. Why was Mr. Charles not allowed get a turn as Opposition leader based on the previous arrangements? Perhaps a joint press conference with these two Reps would be appropriate.
Ya good ideas, I like, but what’s with the wig when a simple corn-row, pony tail, or Afro makes one look even more beautiful and exquisite?
Boi, ah feel ya! I have previously begged (well, not really) DNO to not post a pic of the honourable lady in that monstrosity. Help her out, DNO. Dat wig’s gotta go!