UPDATE: UWP court matter to proceed to trial

The UWP is challenging the validity of the nomination of President Eluid Williams
The UWP is challenging the validity of the nomination of President Eluid Williams

A High Court Judge has ruled that a case brought by the Opposition United Workers Party (UWP), challenging the process by which Eluid Williams was elected President of Dominica, should proceed to trial.

That ruling was handed down by Justice Lionel Jones on February 22, 2013.

Senior Counsel,  Allick Lawrence, who represents the Prime Minister, House Speaker and Attorney General, made an application after Justice Jones made his ruling, for leave to appeal and this was granted.

The UWP had taken the matter to court arguing that the nomination and election of President Williams were “unconstitutional, null, void and of no lawful effect.”

On Monday attorneys for the UWP and the government presented arguments in the case with Lawrence arguing that it is only the Court of Appeal, not the High Court, that has the jurisdiction to determine whether one is qualified to be President or not.

Justice Jones, after hearing both sides, reserved his judgement until today.

Justice Jones in analyzing the matter stated that he accepts as the Respondent/Claimant ( Opposition Leader Hector John) contends that he has a significant role to play in the process of the election of a president and for this reason, “I hold that his locus standi is indisputable.”

He also questioned a certificate produced by the Speaker certifying the election of Williams as President of Dominica. “It seems to me that from the above, the integrity of the Speaker’s Certificate is in question and a clear path to the Court under section 103 remains open. I hold in the circumstances that this court has jurisdiction to entertain this claim,” Justice Jones stated.

According to Justice Jones after giving careful consideration to the arguments and authorities cited in this matter and in all the circumstances, “I hold that the Court has jurisdiction and the claim in not frivolous, vexatious nor an abuse of the process of the court”.

“The framers of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica never intended that the election of the President, the Head of State should become entangled in controversy. The role of every participant in the process is clearly spelt out. But like in all spheres of life, dispute arises from time to time,” Justice Jones said. “It is beyond dispute, he said that the Constitution is the supreme law and the powers of Government and the Parliament are “circumscribed by the Constitution.”

The Judge further stated that where there has been any breach of the Constitution the “courts have the final say.”

He continued, “Where the jurisdiction of the Court is excluded by the Constitution or any other law, the Court jealously and scrupulously would examine the circumstances to ensure that its process is not compromised or brought into dispute. The jurisdiction of the Court is not ousted by simply waving a Speaker’s Certificate in its face.”

He explained that this case involves a dispute in a matter in which the rules were laid down by the Constitution and as such the Court, as guardian of the Constitution, must be the final arbiter.

“In this case the evidence which is so far not disputed raises in my view a number of issues that need further elucidation. In the premises, I dismiss the application and I order that the case proceed to trial,” Justice Jones said.

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109 Comments

  1. Annica Alethea
    February 24, 2013

    Justice Lionel Jones has exposed State trickery.
    The idea was since the matter goes through parliament then the Court had no jurisdiction over it, but they failed to realize that the court in fact has jurisdiction, imagine any nonsense taking place in parliament and with a SPEAKERS CERTIFICATE the matter is final.
    Is Dominica capable of doing anything correctly?

    • IPO
      February 25, 2013

      The court is working now……I hope when he strikes it down you still say its working

    • Nkrumah Kwame
      February 25, 2013

      The question, my friend, is not whether Dominica can do anything right; but rather whether THIS MISGOVERNMENT CAN DO ANYTHING RIGHT. Nuance.

  2. Looking in
    February 24, 2013

    This High Court Judge has balls… He is not moved nor is he bought. Let the Law of the Land prevail once and for all.

  3. Domerican/Possie
    February 24, 2013

    Justice Jones said, “It is beyond dispute, that the Constitution is the supreme law and the powers of Government and the Parliament are “circumscribed by the Constitution.”
    THANK YOU FOR THIS REINFORCEMENT SIR. There is hope in D/CA for the fight to have the constitution respected by all, including those in positions of power.

  4. Tell Me
    February 24, 2013

    DNO,there was a press release from the IPO how come no mention about it? Some interesting remarks about the Triple Rep of a Lawyer,we waiting!

    • Intransigent
      February 24, 2013

      DNO’s owner has is and will continue to be a conservative afraid of his own shadow.always played it safe since SMA and up stairs boardinghouse on queen mary street by Copiel back in the late 60’s.
      Am not surprise he takes a conservative stance on every and any thing.
      Another brick in DA’s wall.

  5. splendour
    February 24, 2013

    Oh noble Judge! O excellent …man!
    O wise and upright judge!
    Most rightful judge!
    Most learned judge! A ‘decision’! Come, prepare!
    Finally a Daniel in our couts!!!!!

    • Malgraysa
      February 25, 2013

      That presumes there are lions in the den when in fact there are only hyenas.

  6. Prefer to be unknown
    February 23, 2013

    Before reading any comments, I simply want to say ‘Well said and well done Justice Jones!!!!!!’ Now I will proceed to reading comments!!!!

    • Not their boy
      February 24, 2013

      Bet ur bottom $ Mr.Jones will not be attending an big functions and whisky nights with the connected. He does not need that anyways! lol He can afford his own scotch.
      So guys like that idiot Crazy whatever will not say the new Judge is our boys he drinking whiskey at my entertainment place. he is our oy.Sorry not this one.

  7. stehen
    February 23, 2013

    we are part of the commonwealth.why dont we make good use of our membership by. inviting law students or such like minded people to run the I. P. O on a limited contrect after all the I P O important to us

  8. New Yorker
    February 23, 2013

    It is shameful to see that Elude williams can be tangled in such a web, it was noted earlier that this man has got years of experience in the public service, and has membership in a few well known organizations, was he not intelligent enough to understand the circumstamces of how he was appointed?? What a bad start for such a positon;the highest office in the land

    • Miami-er
      February 24, 2013

      New Yorker You know of the napolean syndrome when they short they’ll do anything to get and hold on to power.
      It’s a short man’s down fall they always want to prove themselves. Some will fall for anything where they stand they cannot be seen. hahahaah
      In addition a little light headedness can make one feel inferior and will do anything to get and remain at the top.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      You should know that this has absolutely nothing to do with him. The opposition is the one stirring up trouble and challenging the PM about his appointment. I need not elaborate further.

  9. Jaime Lewis
    February 23, 2013

    So we know that the UWP is moving along with its plan to ensure that justice prevails in the land. The question we need to keep asking the UWP is: what your plans for winning the next general election? Are you preparing candidates who will be victorious at the polls? Are you walking the streets of the remotest villages in Dominica laying out your plan for the future of the island? Are you making contacts with donor countries to ensure that you will receive funding for further development? Do you have a plan for reducing unemployment? How will you increase jobs? What is your plan for the agricultural sector? Are you out there developing markets? What is the plan UWP? Do not get caught up in just trying to bring down the PM. Think long term. What will you do when he is gone? If you don’t have a well thought out plan on paper with some long and short term goals and objectives, then all of this court action is just a matter of grandstanding. Still empty barrels making the most noise. Get busy UWP! Get busy! Think victory and then making the country successful.

    • ,
      February 24, 2013

      I write as a hater of this regime governing Dominica.First of all the plan is to respect the supreme law of the land, the constitution. I thank the UWP for this unending crusade to see to it that the constitution, and the rule of law stands supreme and are respected. You asked some good questions that you should forward to this present set of people who are pillaging the country. The cabal.From where i stand i have heard some of their ideas and i am satisfied that it is better than what we have presently.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      I would not make them wiser. They think they can do better. Let them think for themselves and see what future plans they have for Dominica in order to win the election. They must not be presumptuous.

  10. Mamizoo
    February 23, 2013

    All this pussyfooting who is paying – yes money payment for these lawyers defending the government’ s erratic behavior. Is it the tax payers picking up the lawyers tab even when civil seats can’t get a descent raise. Why must tax payers pay for the selfish behavior of politicians.
    Liverpool was so sck that a doctrine of necessity was pulled out of a magician bag, that the old speaker was waving he certificate of approval. Where is Liverpool and is e or was he really that sick.
    The audacity f the people who are suppose to be people of high repute. After failing the people he is still utilizing state resources to take him to shows.
    I hoe that sooer than later the people of Dominica rack up the courage to say enough s enough – no more abuse

  11. Not a herd follower
    February 23, 2013

    Why does the lawyers representing the governemnt feel that it is necessary to appeal the decision of Judge Lionel Jones? Why, in the interest of having a speedy resolution, don’t they allow the High Court to first clarify the procedure for the election of the President? If after the ruling of the High Court on the validity of the election, they believe they have reasonable grounds to appeal, then appeal at that stage. Seeking to engage in all maneouvres at every stage does not contribute to the efficient dispensation of justice. The behaviour smacks of arrogance and lack of genuine interest in truth.

  12. Better choice
    February 23, 2013

    We all know where this is going
    At the end, it’s our tax monies that will be wasted in the process. The noise makers will keep blaming the system of governance for their lack of entrepreneurship. The Diasporas members and the small private sector input is helping to develop this country. While they are making noise about violating the constitution and the rule of law, they will fight the process to pay for the garbage collection, or their land tax, they will blame the government for not cleaning in front their own door step; they will continue to fellow the masses in the name of opposition while benefiting from the so call red clinic. They will keep shouting about constitution and rule of law, but will refuse to pay the very small taxes to help develop their constituency. They will keep vandalizing public property, in the name of hatred for the leader of this country, but not taking into account, it helps the young people off the street. Or will keep littering in the rivers and streams around the country, not taking into account that they lack of respect for they own country. But the noise makers will do their best to point the finger to the leadership for violating the constitution. This is known as double standards, please stop it .Politics is a corrupt system, things are not getting better, they are getting worse, this it’s a global crisis, and we need to get serious about preserving what we have, you all need to do something for your own self, stop looking on man for help realign your perspective, put it on God.

  13. Pointe Michel-Roseau
    February 23, 2013

    Mr. Williams, I do not know you, but I have heard that you are an honorable man with lots of integrity, so please don’t let Taxes payers spend so much money on this trial and do the right thing by just stepping down.
    This will go a long way in showing our young people that there are still respectable men in Da.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      Why should he? He did not place himself in this position. He did not seek it. He was offered the position and he accepted. Maybe some of you should live well alone. You love to be negative, to debate and fight over nothing. Many times it is much ado about nothing and creating problems for others. Some people lack peace. As God looks on, those who do will pay a dear price.

      • Justice and Truth
        February 24, 2013

        :oops: ‘leave’

  14. British Citizen
    February 23, 2013

    People please step away from this partisan behavior lets just see right for right and wrong for wrong. Don’t forget to love your neighbor as yourself because the opposition would not be the opposition for life nor would the present government be the present government for life. So please people step away from all this partisan politics and anger.

    • No face/like it is
      February 24, 2013

      One would think that being in Britain would afford you some insight into common sense.
      I guess you just exsist in London or where ever you are. Learning from ur environment doh mean shit.
      My question is while the are in power or opposition what happens to the citizen joe/D/can do like U just exsist? Man they should deport ur rear saqway sort en langliterre.

  15. Justice and Truth
    February 22, 2013

    Can they not live and let live? He is already appointed. It is not a crime. Is this worth wasting time and funds over? Allow him to continue his tenure. I say this all for the love of God. Do not be vindictive. Much stress is placed on the PM and President of all. Avoid evil, hatred and enmity. It is in the Holy Bible, the Word of the Lord. Keep in mind whatever is dished out to others, one way or the other it comes back two-fold. God’s peace be to you!

    • 1st illegal blogger
      February 25, 2013

      Justice & truth you are out of touch with reality and by extension commonsense. poor you.
      The man knew better when his illegal acceptance was in process he knows better but there is something about power that make these guys silly and unable to think straight.
      He must go down as the shortest lived President in DA and he is also short too. so shortness for shortness.

    • Malgraysa
      February 25, 2013

      You still looking for your invitation and free ticket from Skerrit to come and vote, Justice & Truth??

  16. ROSEAU VALLEY
    February 22, 2013

    This is not a UWP matter neither DNO. This is a matter beyond partisan politics. Your headline trivializes the matter. That is a great judgment- just as Roseau Valley has always seen it. This is the beginning of the end. The IPO may postpone its hearing but the OECS Court of Appeal is scheduled to meet in Dominica from 8 to 12 April 2013 and hopefully, we will have the judgment we deserve with regard to the foreign allegiances case of PM Skerrit long before that i.e. the reversal of the Judgment of Judge Gertel Thom, the wife of the newest OECS High Court Judge appointee in Antigua – Justice Keith Thom (her husband) following her ruling in the Skerrit Case. Go figure!

    Justice Lionel Jones is right on target. The Opposition Leader plays a fundamental role in the process of the electing our president. The integrity of the Speaker’s Certificate is indeed questionable in law and the Court has jurisdiction to act under section 103 of the Constitution.

    This is not a frivolous or vexatious matter nor is it an abuse of the process of the court. This is a fight to protect the integrity of our Constitution as our parliament, our Speaker, our PM, our AG and both the outgoing and incoming presidents would not uphold out laws. Shame on Mr. Eluid Williams! Shame! Resign sir and escape further shame.

    This judgment will please the framers of our Constitution, who never intended that the election of the President, the Head of State should become entangled in controversy promoted lead by loud mouth and unprofessional Speaker, an illegal PM, a weak parliament and a people who seem to be either unwilling or incapable of holding the government to account or to demand the type of governance they deserve.

    As the honourable judge has reminded us, “Where there has been any breach of the Constitution the “Courts have the final say- doh matter what Tony says. Where the jurisdiction of the Court is excluded by the Constitution or any other law, the Court jealously and scrupulously must examine the circumstances to ensure that its process is not compromised or brought into dispute- as the DLP, Lennox and Tony and others have been promoting- sadly with the concurrence of some judges like Justices Thom and Cottle.

    Contrary to Alix and Tony, the jurisdiction of the Court is not ousted by simply waving a Speaker’s Certificate in its face. That is yet another of Senior Counsel’s great lies. The Court, as guardian of the Constitution has always been and shall be the final arbiter- not Tony!

    Respectfully
    Roseau Valley

    • No face/like it is
      February 24, 2013

      Amen 4 once the valley’s undefined bush -lawyer has it all summed up clearly and to the point without showing his UWP inclination.
      Congratulations keep it up you maynow come forth and get a landslide over Norris or the gabbage Bin connect pal rep if u so desire.

  17. ,
    February 22, 2013

    No Law not even the Constitution can make me consult with Mr Honourable Spaggs John! Go to Hell! Go To Hell! Go To Hell! This same constitution he has trampled under his feet has to deal with him accordingly.

  18. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    When I listen to the radio or even here on DNO I get the impression that we are being asked to repeat ourselves without option. It seems like as we were told to do in 2000 we are being asked to do the same in 2014. We were told to get the UWP out at all cost because they were corrupt and we had to take our country back, well we did and look where we are today being asked to take it back again. Now we are being told to get the DLP out at all cost, this sounds like we are being tricked or forced to vote through desperation and through that, makes choices that we regrets. History may repeat itself because once these politicians see that we appear to have our backs against the walls then they come into power and thinks we have nowhere to turn so they free to do as they wish. I say get new players into the game and not the same crooks, they can use a party name but new people. The UWP seem to be playing that game of the people are frustrated they want change so we have a chance and we feel like we are going to get magic development in Dominica this time around, well am not excited. Positive plans, programs, strategy, vision a way forward is what should interest us not that we need to remove this government at all cost, don’t give me that leave the pot and jump in the fire mentality. Then again I don’t expect any better beacuse many people can’t see it that way all they care about is get them out just as the dame asked to do in 2000.

    • Truth
      February 24, 2013

      My friends and I met here in NJ for our usual rendezvous to laugh at and comment on the issues of the week in our native DA all of us are exorgenous from these political rascals at home. A few of us were in and out from the late 70’s to today.

      I was asked to post something in response to Anonymous.
      Here I go simple and direct analyzing it I see the question here is which is/was more corrupt UWP or the new invaded DLP. When deciding we have to take into account inflation the current thieves are by far more boldface and take the 1st 2nd third and all the consolation prizes

  19. Marla
    February 22, 2013

    Finally…we get some justice in the land. But when will the court of appeal hear this matter…in 2013 November or 2014 April. Hmmmm meanwhile we have another person acting without proper authority of our constitution.

    • Concern One
      February 22, 2013

      Hopefully we will all accept the court’s final rulling and will not cry justice denied, for justice is not just what a few believe it is.

  20. anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    Just a glimse in the past..

    “Opposition Leader Hector John
    The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) may nominate its own candidate for the office of President of Dominica.

    Opposition Leader Hector John told Dominica News Online that someone from the party has given consent to be nominated.

    “Someone has given consent on our side … I have not given the Prime Minister our nominee and while he has given me his, I won’t disclose it since it is for him to do,” John stated.

    Although he did not make public his choice for president John said he has the ability to agree, disagree and nominate.

    “It won’t take long before for that issue to settle as long as the constitutional requirements are met,” John declared.

    John and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit met on Wednesday as consultation for the nomination of a new president got underway.

    John described the meeting as fruitful and said that a replacement will be announced soon adding that everything is being done to ensure that the constitution is respected.

    It has been reported in the media that Prime Minister Skerrit’s choice for president is former public servant Eluid Williams but John would not comment on that matter.

    “The Prime Minister made his nominee known and I think I will leave that for him to make public, I will respect the prime Minister and let him inform the nation on his choice for president but we will continue from there in terms of consulting,” John said.

    The country’s current head of state, Dr. Nicholas Liverpool, is expected to demit office one year earlier due to health reasons.

    According to the Constitution of the Dominica: “Whenever the office of the President is vacant or the term of office of the President is due to expire within not more than ninety days, the Prime Minister shall consult with the Leader of the Opposition as to their joint nomination of a suitable candidate for election as President”.

    If the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition agree on a join nominee for the Presidency, then the Speaker will be advised in writing and the individual will be elected without putting the question to a vote.

    If they do not agree, the Speaker will be advised and the House of Assembly will be informed accordingly. Then, within fourteen days, “the Prime Minister or the Leader of the Opposition or any three members of the House” may submit to the Speaker “by writing under their hands, nominations of candidates for election as President”.

    “We are moving in the right direction, the meeting was to the point and straight and all questions were answered,” John concluded.”

    I am not a lawyer but the claimant is saying that there was no consultation, could someone enlighten me. :?: :?: :?:

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      I recalled reading this on DNO. They are contradicting themselves. The opposition had it in their mind all along, their usual stance, that they would not cooperate with the PM. This is the height of arrogance, vindictiveness and wickedness.

  21. sandy
    February 22, 2013

    All these court cases and the UWP is going nowhere…..Talk, talk and more talk. They need to regroup. They need to be positive with their doings and vote Lennox Linton as their leader. Ronnie Isidore as deputy etc. I was a little taken back when I heard Sprags interview on q95 this morning…dont think he is encouraging at all.

  22. Reader
    February 22, 2013

    I sitll don’t get this whole daybar. At the time of the appointment the Hon. leader of the opposition was on the radio saying that he and the Hon. PM consulted about the president. He even suggested that he might have an alternative name for the position. Then the next day, it was a completely different matter. Quite frankly, I have had it with all these failed politicians – no matter their party colours (red, blue, green, orange, brown). I would throw every last one of them in Ma Dominique’s garbage bin and start fresh.

  23. IPO
    February 22, 2013

    BREAKING NEWS….The UWP has taken the Vatican to court, claiming that the POPE resignation was illegal and that no POP has never resigned before.

    Was the POPE forced out,was due process followed.

    We shall keep you informed as to who is the new POPE.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      This is funny. :lol: Let them try. They will have a billion faithful Catholics worldwide on their backs to the extent that they would not be able to stand on their two feet.

    • Malgraysa
      February 25, 2013

      IPO, this time your attempt at diverting attention is truly pathetic. Stick to the issue at hand. Pope has nothing to do with the governance of our country.

      • IPO
        February 25, 2013

        Man you all sue for everything….it just shows how the world is so much more advanced.

        So what is going to happen with you all nonsensical cases…really.

        Does the man in Delices and Tete Morne care if the President resigned and someone else became President?

        The man is more concerned about Tomorrow and likewise majority of DOminicans.

  24. GraveStone Budget
    February 22, 2013

    I am still waiting…the Courts here are extremely Slow on giving Justice when it comes to Matters of The State and Governance and other issues.

    What i find strange is that how come these folks Go To law school and are still brainless when it Comes To understanding what law is…

    I view the Legal System in the Caribbean more So As a tool to keep Black People in the Dark always.

    And most of these Legal Blokes are paid highly to Apply their Massa rules on the citizens…

    What a shame Poor on the Caribbean Courts they Can’t get issues resolved in a timely manner and Move on…

    So the Point is the average citizen would feel Better having matters dealt with outside of the Caribbean away from Corrupt Caribbean Justice System.

    That’s why they are classed Third World, still Dark in understanding basic issues and upholding Standards…

  25. Emergen#69
    February 22, 2013

    Al you uwp leave my Pm along plz, he is a bless Man cant you guys give Up omg…lol

  26. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    in all of this one thing is certain …….a government that is always breaking the laws cannot expect and heck should not expect its citizens to follow the law

    nothing against mr williams but proper procedure needs to be followed. its time now to make those who bypass those procedures pay from their own pockets!!

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      Let us get this straight. The government is not breaking the laws. The opposition is the one putting it into your heads since you support them. This is to be expected. However, it is not believable that the PM is breaking the law.
      Worry about you and other supporters breaking the Law of God and contributing to lack of peace in DA and constantly harassing the PM. This is against the Law of God.
      In your eyes he cannot do anything good as if the opposition, you and those supporters do anything good for DA and can do anything for it in the future. Contemplate on this.

  27. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    After all the court cases are over, come next year for election, UWP what plans do you have for Dominica? Come next year we dont want to hear about these matters, we want to hear how the UWP will take us further. We want to know, we want a concrete plan as to how the UWP will take us from being poor country to a top island in the OECS. That what we want to knw, cuz if we cannot hear concrete plans those like me will just not vote. We need better opposition.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      It is important that you vote. Listen to both sides. Think and keep thinking. Most importantly, pray to God to give you a good insight into who you should vote for.
      Use your sense and better judgment. As an individual do not follow that of others. You should vote for the one that has done better for Dominica and which has better plans for Dominica. This should not be difficult to know.

  28. Faceup
    February 22, 2013

    In the IPO, FIRE JULIAN JOHNSON, IF THE REST GOES HE GOES TOO !!

  29. Doc. love
    February 22, 2013

    It would appear that the wind of change is atlast blowing in our direction,blow wind blow.

    • ???????????
      February 22, 2013

      I want it to blow hotter when the owner of the beautiful houses in the north of Dominica faces the court. It must happen one day.

      • Justice and Truth
        February 24, 2013

        Do not wish for that. Hell has no fury and it is hotter than that down there. Think of yourself and your wishes which are contrary to the teachings of Christianity.

    • Hot Sun
      February 23, 2013

      I think this is a Mirage. Let our eyes adjust to the post-carnival fog.

    • Justice and Truth
      February 24, 2013

      The answer my friend is blowing in the wind… Can you see it? :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

  30. Faceup
    February 22, 2013

    Labour voters Skeritt butter fly’s, i give you all five years more to come to your knee”s, iliterates, totaly brainwashed. WE NEED A NEW POLITICAL PARTY !!

    • Can't wait
      February 22, 2013

      Let’s from one. One condition though to be my buddy. No pardon 4 those……………………
      Straight to jail if we stop there punishment will be harsh very harsh at that. no hesitation no deviation no repeatition.It takes only1 minute to try them. In addition some opposition members will have to join them where ever they are held?? could be at the sulphur springs.
      Doh ask me which part they go find out that.
      As for those aids and enablers they will must be the first to be cranked out.They know selves.
      This passport thing has to be nulled and voided. You still wanna join my party?

    • DA TO THE BONE
      February 23, 2013

      Iliterates? You sound like the leader. I don’t see the point taking the govt to court and waste money on an issue that have no bearing on the building of the country. We as a people need to put the Saturday market gossip behind us and grow up for the good of the nation. The saying goes ” you may have the right to do it but it’s not always the right thing to do”. I left Dominica 19 years ago and i still hear the same people calling the radio stations with the same topic just this time the PM is different. When are we going to grow up and put country first?

    • Revo needed
      February 23, 2013

      I would not give jim 5 seconds.
      A modified G?da in 1979 would be a blessing but the right people going instead of guys like Maurice.

  31. What next?
    February 22, 2013

    Based on what is reported by DNO I am left confused like a cat! At the top of this article. I see “Breaking News: High Court Justice rules UWP matter to go to trial.” However after reading the entire article there is nothing there to convince me that a decision has been taken by the Judge. In fact here is how the story ends: “Justice Jones, after hearing both sides, reserved his judgement until today.” After reading this line I was waiting to hear the judgement; however, here is what is there: “IT APPEARS he has dismissed the government’s argument.” So it appears eh? I think the whole nation is so suppressed by the uncertainty of an unfair judicial system that that the media seems either uncertain of the ruling or they afraid to say anything negative about this administration. When DNO will be sure on the verdict I shall post my comment.

    • Dorival John
      February 22, 2013

      “When DNO will be sure on the verdict I shall post my comment.”

      But you just posted your comment. Hahahahahahahaha

      LMFAO

      This one has me on the floor.

      • Anonymous
        February 22, 2013

        You are aware that you posted this comment right?
        smh

    • Anonymous
      February 22, 2013

      Sometimes some of us are too smart for our own good. What was the judge asked to decide on? The skerritt cabal was challenging whether the court had jurisdiction to hear the matter and the judge has decided that it has. What next? The matter will ether be heard or the cabal will try to appeal. What is so wrong or difficult to understand here.

    • Awa
      February 23, 2013

      Smart, the key words are “until today”.

    • A challenger
      February 23, 2013

      WhatNext, these DNO peeps are not politically ,historically, sociologically, or even real jornalists they are like some peeps hero/the hero in you con artisit who does got work unearthing the ills of a corrupt regime who have no scuppleswhat the averagecitizens or denizen think or say. Everyone today on the commonwealth of DA will go along to be in the right place politically correct to received or better said pposition to catch the crumbs as incognito as feasible.
      By extension the staff and mx of DNO are no different from most Dumbs in -Cans.
      They ought to prptect themselves from possible legal action I agree 101 % but their quality of dispensation on issues have a lot to be desired hence don’t be surprised at the bloopers on a daily basis.One basic fault of D/can media is too many sq pegs in trianglar holes not round.
      I pften have a good laugh when guys call themselves legal reporter news editor when the English language is butchered by the hour be it DBS ,Q95 or the crazy station( literally) To put them in the rank of Jeff Charles, PapaDee, the lates Barnett Defore, F.Frampton( may his soul rest in peace) is disrespectful, sometimes I wana cry with anger when I listen to em.
      The print and electronic media don’t fair better. So What Next all this is hog wash guys are unable to ceaft a story correctly/So don’t expect much.
      They will not print this one like they so often do. I challenge em.

      • A challenger
        February 23, 2013

        craft that ought to read.
        Almost forgot to mention. There is one who has beenon air before I was born and contionues to roll with the tides from having been a pto DFP-ite now seems DLP clansestinolol after 40 yrs or so still say: ” I’ll take/read that again from since the 70’s an makemore errors today than yesterday. I know he has extremly bad sight gauging from the thickness of his spectacles. Could that be the reason? I often wonder or just another Dumb in a can reading poorly.

    • Prefer to be unknown
      February 23, 2013

      My friend read again!!!! The decision is in the loudly and clearly stated!!!!! His responsibility was to decide whether or not there was sufficient evidence and sufficient legal backup for this case to be heard in court. He said,“In this case the evidence which is so far not disputed raises in my view a number of issues that need further elucidation. In the premises, I dismiss the application and I order that the case proceed to trial”. He also stated the following, “It seems to me that from the above, the integrity of the Speaker’s Certificate is in question and a clear path to the Court under section 103 remains open. I hold in the circumstances that this court has jurisdiction to entertain this claim”. Is that not clear enough for you? “In this case the evidence which is so far not disputed” indicates to me that the government’s lawyers were not ‘disputing’ the evidence, but instead appear to be disputing who it is who should decide on qualification of candidates. Boss read THIS article and comment accordingly. I don’t think that you read this particular article.

  32. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    WORKERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!

    • %
      February 22, 2013

      It can be any other party. Workere – Yes, Freedom – Yes Pappy _ Yes.. Once is not that bad and corrupt Labar Powder Party.

  33. Lisad
    February 22, 2013

    Good . Now here’s something in the opposition’s favor. My question is, do they still see the court as being unfair?

    • Peeping Tom
      February 22, 2013

      Lisad, in the eyes of the opposition (all of them), our institutions are fair only when they serve their cause. the only justice and fairness they know is that which folds to their wishes.

    • Raison d' et
      February 23, 2013

      What do you think? Now they have found a sympathezer in the law as some body said asked earlier what next? Do you have any ideas Lisad or zandoli?/ lizard lol
      There is a saying on island ( groovy bat would say as my friend lol not really more my jounalistic toy to poke fun at hahaha he is a gas and thinks he is p there with the news great of the worldI f you were cerebral you would have put forth a case as a rational mind would. Let me hear from you Lizard/Zandoli.
      I should not call you Zandoli as you are nowhere close. In the 90’s their was a real Zandoli who worte some pieces never before read in our daily news which had Eddie et AL fuming when the allegded Zandoli was discovered or crooked by close associate the Zandoli was skinned politically for it’s inherant ability to expose criticze the UWP DFP parties. Today the zandoli would clearly be writing about the party it supported as it has been dis placed by opportunists with human faces ej illegal heads of state in chronology of power with DFP and UWP genesis leaving ordinary D/can confused what the definition of legal. honesty means in contemporary life. What a comess DA has been transformed into!
      So with that having been layed as your food for thought and a sense of where to place your argument let the game begin Lisad or false Lizard Zandoli

  34. IPO
    February 22, 2013

    UWP, all you happy now….the same court system you vilify everyday seems to be working for you….

    don’t be mad when its not on your side

    • JB
      February 22, 2013

      Just wait until they ask their supports to fund that case and lose. The celebration wont be long before accuse the court system of being corrupt once again. Let them savor this moment.

      • February 22, 2013

        we will never stop funding and we will never stop fighting for justice

      • say something
        February 23, 2013

        sentimentalist expression why don’t U shut …………. up you do not contribute anything typical AH if you have nada to contribute zip it.

  35. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    this process is uncall for.

  36. T
    February 22, 2013

    In the meantime, Eluid Williams is still President just as our PM!

    We are just going to sit back and watch this role with the tide… there are going to be delays, postponements and nonstop waste of time. By the time the court is ready to actually start the trial…. the President will have served his term getting ready for another.

    Not trying to be negative, but that’s just how the system is.

    • Malgraysa
      February 22, 2013

      If it that is so the judge would not have ordered a trial. Yes, the powers that be are sure to appeal, perhaps lodge another request for a judicial review and sit on it but the judges ruling does mean that the legality of Mr. Williams’ appointment is questionnable.

    • Anonymous
      February 22, 2013

      I couldn’t have said it any better.

    • say something
      February 23, 2013

      schizophrenic behavior of the late 60’s may return
      under pressure.

  37. Me , MY Dog and I
    February 22, 2013

    I must say that i am so surprise that the judge decided to make that decision .I don’t think that the United Workers Party has any thing personal against the government , MR Williams and Mr skerrit . They are just doing what is required by law of them as an opposition party .I just think that Mr skerrit needs to know his place and do things the legal way, he needs to stop taking short cuts that’s in his best interest. I think you gets away with too many doings when it comes to running our country, he is very disrespectful to the laws that governs the country, he needs to respect the constitution because he wants the people who voted them in too respect it as well. I do hope that MR Williams remain president which i know the United Workers has no problem with , they just needed it to be done correctly. so to the United Workers Party thumbs up for fighting for the right to respect the constitutions.

  38. Peeping Tom
    February 22, 2013

    The “system” is not so “corrupt” in favour of the government, after all.

    • Pawol
      February 22, 2013

      G.J/J get off it! Stop singing for that scholarship na man!

    • ROSEAU VALLEY
      February 22, 2013

      It may well be. After all who is the Judge appointed to serve in the High Court in 2012 after Judge Thom ruled in favour Skerrit? Was it the husband of the same Judge in the Skerrit case- Judge Keith Thom?

      Why is can’t the OECS Court of Appeal give its long, unduly protracted deferred judgment? It that because the only way to go is AGAINST justice Thom?

      Why would Justice Baptiste (the son of a promient Labourite) slap the UWP with a fine of over $200,000.00 for bringing a matter before the court dealing with the Constitution of the people only to have it reduced to $40,000.00 by the Appeal Court (actually it should have been totally thrown out completely).

      One may conclude, therefore, that the system is still what it is but like in every system there are good and the bad elements just as every lawyer in Dominica is not like Lennox, Alick and Tony nor is every politician in our political system like Skerrit and certainly not every blogger on DNO is as bias and political blinded as Peeping Tom.

      Respectfully
      Roseau Valley

  39. STILL
    February 22, 2013

    Dominica full of hedge fund managers a few days ago all kept saying nothing would come out of it now something has you already attacking the next stage of the process. You keep making yourselves victims! why? I.e.guess this corrupt judge like you all called him was bought by someone to make that decision.. Becareful what you say because when the decision turns out in your favor the standards you set before remain. If you claim the court system is corrupt and you win you won in A corrupt court.

    • Anonymous
      February 22, 2013

      @ Still you know damn well the system is corrupt. Like in every institution there are a few who will stand up for justice and not be purchased. One day people like you will wish that you were chastising your leaders. Hope it wont be to late. Wrong is wrong and wrong cannot be right.

    • Peeping Tom
      February 22, 2013

      STILL: “Be careful what you say because when the decision turns out in your favor the standards you set before remain. If you claim the court system is corrupt and you win you won in A corrupt court.”

      Well-said. Tell them!

      Their reaction surely does throw a blinding spotlight on their cries of a “corrupt justice system” and the quality of justice that is administered in Dominica. No? Crying wolf, phantasmagoria, preying on the ignorance of others, mischief-making, intellectual sluggishness, or all of the above? Make your pick.

    • ,
      February 23, 2013

      @ STILL…..The legasl system in Dominica now, is the worst that has been in existence since its discovery… People like you need to swallow your pride and you thick tongue and express your disgust and dissatisfaction about it.

  40. spirit 202
    February 22, 2013

    workersssss great :lol: :-D :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

    • WORKERS
      February 22, 2013

      GREAT WHAT

    • February 22, 2013

      the system is feeling the pressure from the masses

  41. Anonymous
    February 22, 2013

    Bah you bwa balen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    one down; one more to go

  42. JONES
    February 22, 2013

    Make them waste money.

    • Anonymous
      February 22, 2013

      I was wondering if that’s the approach, just to make them waste money as they end up losing all count cases anyway. But one day, the people of Dominica will be victorious

  43. JONES
    February 22, 2013

    And when they lose, “PM put money in there pucket.

  44. Morihei Ueshiba
    February 22, 2013

    Fire dem fellas on the IPO and bring in some foreigners. :mrgreen:

    • %
      February 22, 2013

      Agree 1000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000%

  45. bullcrop
    February 22, 2013

    Nothing is gonna come outa this..juz watch and u go see…dem man that running things..

  46. Citizen Kane
    February 22, 2013

    When ?

  47. drama b
    February 22, 2013

    interesting turn of events….

  48. jackie chang
    February 22, 2013

    stat tuned for delayssssss

  49. mouth of the south
    February 22, 2013

    hhhmmmmm I.P.O you all have to do what’s right and go on with the due process…

    it is so sad, and shameful how dominicans are so passive… i’m not talking about politics only but generally as a people… it seems the weakest set of slaves were left in dominica, because they were not fit for larger plantations of jamaica and haiti…. lol

    • Anonymous
      February 22, 2013

      You rather be in Jamaica or Haiti? Good luck with that bro

      • mouth of the south
        February 22, 2013

        where in my post did u get that assumption, but i will admit, i’m sort of ‘jealous’ of the patriotic spirit that haitians and jamaicans possess and seeing we don’t…. we don’t love Dominica, we only for ourselves personally and that is the truth….

    • affected
      February 22, 2013

      Brother what utter rubbish. Ridiculous !

  50. Dee
    February 22, 2013

    Great! Its about time!

    • NOBEL
      February 22, 2013

      WHEN WILL WE START TALKING SENSE , ALWAYS NEGATIVE COMMENTS

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