Hotelier Sam Raphael, has released information which he said shows evidence that the United Workers Party (UWP) was engaged in the alleged sale of diplomatic passports.
In a statement on Tuesday, Raphael said the information was a response to Opposition Leader, Lennox Linton’s demand for evidence from Raphael who had previously accused the UWP of being involved in selling diplomatic passports.
In the statement, Raphael revealed information of the dates and times of the receipt of funds from the alleged passport sales.
He stated that there were no MOUs involved “for such under the table transactions” but there are financial records which cannot be refuted.
Raphael said that mindful of the potential impact the information he has might have on people’s lives, he has been advised to seal it “along with a videotape deposition containing any additional details and surrender the entire unedited bundle to the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Dominica for safe keeping.”
Raphael also called on both opposition and government to work together for the development of Dominica.
Read the statement below.
Greetings my fellow Dominicans, about two weeks ago while responding to an attack by a prominent opposition surrogate, I informed the Q95 Radio audience that the opposition United Workers Party’s leader was doing damage to our country’s image with allegations of the sale of diplomatic passports while his own party’s hands were unclean because they sold diplomatic passports to six individuals to finance a previous election campaign.
The Opposition Leader publicly claimed that he had done a thorough investigation of the UWP and have found no evidence of my claim. He publicly demanded that I produced the evidence, so here it is.
During the latter part of 2004, two prominent UWP leaders asked me to introduce them to a particular colleague of mine who could further introduce them to wealthy people to fund the upcoming campaign
After intense preparation, a delegation traveled to Zurich, Switzerland and interviewed a number of foreign clients that were interested in diplomatic passports
The UWP leaders convinced the clients that with sufficient funding they could win the upcoming election and would appoint those clients to various diplomatic posts
The UWP sought to obtain US$300,000 a piece for each appointment. The negotiations produced six successful clients. Four agreeing to pay the full $300,000, one agreeing to pay $200,000 and one US$150,000.
I was asked to receive the funds on behalf of the party as I was not directly associated with the UWP and to further distribute the proceeds to four local business accounts controlled by prominent UWP business people.
The delegation returned to Dominica and the following funds were subsequently received via wire transfer:
-December 23, 2004 ..$US300,000
-January 12, 2005…US$300,000
-February 2, 2005…US$150,000
February 24, 2005 …Three payments…One for US$200,000, and two payments of $US300,000
The proceeds from these clients were subsequently delivered mostly by checks, receipts which I have in hand, to the business accounts prescribed by the party leaders.
Of course there would be no MOU for such secret under the table transactions, however, wire transfers and checks comprised prominent financial records that cannot be refuted
I will not belabour other details of this unfortunate affair, some of which were previously published in an article in the Sun Newspaper this past February. However, I am amazed that notwithstanding all of the overwhelming evidence I have presented today, which consists of a bank statement, signed by an assistant manager of the receiving bank showing the incoming wire transfers, check stubs, showing the dates and amounts that were distributed to the four local accounts owned by prominent UWP members and a first-hand witness that the Opposition Leader, whose previous career was an investigative journalist, would continue to deny and try to cover up the fact that his party sold diplomatic passports.
They did not have the opportunity to deliver on the sale but they sold diplomatic passports.
The only conclusion the rational person can reach is that the truth is a matter of convenience to the leader of our opposition.
Day after day we are bombarded with Monfared for breakfast, Monfared for lunch and Monfared for dinner and yet in the face of irrefutable evidence, the Opposition Leader continues to live in his own world.
Mr. Linton, have you ever considered the possibility that Mr. Monfared may overcome his current troubles, return to Dominica and successfully sue you for defamation? Haven’t your supporters paid enough for your persecution of people while you neglect the bread and butter issues that can improve their lives? Please stop, reflect, take heed to the good advice that I know you are getting from responsible people in your own party and begin to behave like a respectable partner in the development of Dominica.
Ladies and gentlemen, as you can imagine these financial records in my possession contain very sensitive information that could be extremely damaging to the reputation of a number of individual both locally and abroad.
Mindful of the potential adverse impact this information will have on people’s lives, my legal counsel has advised me to seal this information along with a videotape deposition containing any additional details and to surrender the entire unedited bundle to the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Dominica for safe keeping.
Therefore by the time this video is aired, the evidence will be in the possession of the Attorney General of Dominica.
Mindful, that this broadcast may reach non-Dominicans I would also like to put the following on record:
First, the opposition lost the 2005 elections, so, fortunately, none of the six persons, including one client that was subsequently convicted of financial fraud in the US in 2006 and spent 96 months in Federal Prison, were ever appointed.
Two, the events previously mentioned took place a number of years ago and three, the Caribbean has learned a difficult lesson from the negative publicity surrounding the sale of diplomatic passports and as far as I am aware, no Caribbean Government or political party is presently involved in selling diplomatic passports.
My fellow Dominicans, we are a vibrant and colorful people that will always have differences, politically and otherwise. I am an independent businessman, not aligned to any political party.
I have not been paid or induced in any way to make the statements that I am making now. My only motivation is disgust with persons who are seeking to destroy the good name of Dominica for political gain. Notwithstanding our differences we should all put country before party and find ways to complement each other in other to bring development and prosperity to our people.
We are on the road to recovery, we are on the road to development for ourselves and our children, however, this road is bumpy with steep dangerous pitfalls, so we will need to work with each other to get to the place we want to go.
Let us renew the spirits of our forebearers and together demand that our government and opposition work together like the collaborative competitors our forebearers envisioned.
A progressive and responsible government with a disciplined and responsible opposition that will keep the government’s hands on the steering wheel. We are blessed with a beautiful island with talented and concerned citizens at home and abroad that deeply care about our island. We already possess everything we need to develop our island, all we need to do is to begin to work together.
Thank you.
Sam, You are my hero. Like you, I am NOT aligned with any party, but instead am disgusted by the cognitive dissonance our people (both red and blue) are eating for breakfast, lunch and supper.
It is my dream that we can all work together for the better of of this country state.
Hello and good morning my people. Well Mr Raphael how can UWP sell passports when they aren’t in power and in your own article you said they didn’t deliver. Sir your problem is that your business is being supported by funds from the CBI program therefore the current administration send you to attack the opposition and that’s why you have to seal the envelop because there’s nothing in it. Also you are a businessman but you are damaging your business in regards to upper middle class People like me who visit home at least twice a year. Please tell us how your hotel reconstruction qualify for CBI funds.
From what i am reading,the passports were sold by you Sam.
that comment made my day
To provide evidence is to put forth tangible material that can support what you are saying with your mouth. Let me just ask how can any one in opposition have access to diplomatic passports for sale? Who gave the opposition such passports? Mr Raphael who has been forgiven his debt and whose hotel is being funded by the powers that be must realize that his statement can lead to his ruin should the present administration be removed from office.
You don’t have no foresight. Didn’t you read that he cant give to much information. I agree when you said in opposition you don’t have access to diplomatic passports but that transaction was done in the event IF and i mean IF workers had come in power. Haven’t you read also those clients would have gotten certain diplomatic post if they had won.
“Mr. Linton, have you ever considered the possibility that Mr. Monfared may overcome his current troubles, return to Dominica and successfully sue you for defamation? ” Samuel Raphael, did you really raise this possibility? Have you gone mad? For your information, Monfared partner in crime has already been executed for defrauding the Republic of Iran, and Monfared is on his way, to the execution chamber! “Alireza Zibahalat Monfared, 43, is accused of involvement in Iran’s biggest-ever corruption scandal, working alongside tycoon Babak Zanjani who was sentenced to death last year for pocketing $2.8 billion while helping the country bypass sanctions.” http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2017/01/16/Iran-arrests-corruption-fugitive-Alireza-Monfared-after-international-manhunt-.html
Some people will say anything to get something, no matter whether it’s true, a possibility or a lie.
Well from what I am reading the passports were sold by Sam then, and he gave UWP from it. So in this case UWP did not sell passports, Sam has a licence…i guess ….he sold….and gave to UWP for elections.
OK that said. Sam and Lennox, all you now taking that personal. What eve all you issue seem to be..end that nonesense, two big men like all you. Sam and I know you a while now, this is draining you, you lookiing meg and dry…kill that man….it taking a toll on you Sam.
A change of leadership in UWP is peharps the best thing for now going forward.
Sam as a businessman you have really weaved a web of entanglement for yourself and business by taking on the political opposition- to what end I may ask Sir? You have just complicated things for yourself.
So talking Business 101- do you think it was and is in your business interests to get so political or were you forced or asked to take on Mr. Linton with such furor for whatever reason or reasons you and or others deemed important and necessary? Or was this a business decision and /or calculation at this critical time for you and your project? Either way I think you are and will be on the loosing end- wrong move Sam (my opinion).
Dominicans are so gullible that they believe (diplomatic passports) are available for sale at Save-a-Lot. The question that you Sam did not answer is where and from whom did UWP obtain the (diplomatic passports) which you alleged they sold. According to you Sam it was in 2004 when the DLP was the Government they sold these passports. Did Skerrit hand over Diplomatic passports to UWP for them to sell? Something is not right with your understanding and use of the English language or rather the phrase SOLD PASSPORT; did you deliberately leave out the word PROMISE (to sell) so as to have a better effect on your mouton batallie readers? I admire your skill in documenting the money transfer but what is lacking is your documentation of the sold passports. Is that info in the sealed bundle? I hope for God’s sake that the Attorney General and the Police arrest and jail you Sam and any other person(s) involved in the illegal sale of Dominica’s Diplomatic Passport in 2004, as you have alleged.
I agree with you. Sam is just as guilty as those he accused. He needs to say where UWP got the passports from.
Jazz please use the little brain that god gave you properly. UWP didn’t have passports at their disposal but a promise was made to the clients. UWP got campaign money and in exchange if they win the election the clients will get their passports so people stop that foolishness about how can workers have passports while they in opposition.
Well look it look row row ,my man Sam the cat you will be blessed because u at skirooo camp crying to buy your next airplane. Hope u pay your taxes
Sam you provided no evidence. Bro, since Erika in August of 2015, I have been asking myself why was Erika so brutal to you and my friend, only this morning after listening to your Judas Iscarriot like of behavior I got my answer. But Judas got paid ok for betraying Jesus, but when his conscience start to burn him, he hung himself and the land he used the money to buy was a memorial against him. Sam, after Skerrit destroyed our country the way that he did, Mr. Linton was sent to restore, repair and give hope, and you joined with Satan to try to destroy Mr. Linton? Sam my friend, I have a word for you and will tell you when we meet, but just so the nation remembers, let me say to you that this same land you trying to destroy Linton for, shall become your grave as that land shall swallow you up to the point that you will be buried on it without a body present for funeral. Mark my words bro and I hope DNO does not delete it.
.
Sam Raphael, which sukuya that peepee on you so you could behave like that boy? While played obia on you nou? Sam you realized u made a very big fool of yourself? Sam you provided no damn evidence! Sam if you saw
a black man on a blue car say with registration #koppp murdered a person say by the financial center, with a knife and you ran to the police telling them you saw who did it and when they asked you for evidence instead of saying a man you said is a boy on scooter with no tag number or colour, would you say you gave evidence? My friend that’s exactly what you did and I feel you should be investigated. Man after listening to you Sam and thinking of the things you accused Skerrit of in the past, frankly I had to say Erika had every reason to visit you when she did and, let me warn you my friend that even if you get more money from Skerrit to build a better place, the later shall be worse than the former and this time not only will you suffer physical loss but physical pain
It is said that every man has a price. This statement is aptly fitting for Sam Raphael. If he’s truthful, it means that he is a very unscrupulous and bribable character. He is admitting to being at the epicenter of some scandalous transactions. Past wrongdoings should never be used to justify present malpractice and misconduct. Mr. Raphael should get barbequed in public opinion for his admittedly unsavory conduct.
Where is the evidence? Just hot air, ssstttuuuupes! So Sam could come and say that he has proof that UWP had promised to sell twenty passports or, maybe even half of Dominica and we are supposed to just take him at his word? No names, only using vague generalities such as ‘ the leadership”, and “supporters” and unknown account numbers. Sorry, in any court, this is inadmissible, grossly insufficient and irresponsible>
Sam has given info with no supporting evidence. He claims he was deposed and the videotaped deposition is with the AG. What kind of deposition is this, with no active case and an opposing counsel to cross-examine him? Besides, does anyone believe a rational person would pay this amount of money to an opposition party for a passport which is document issued by a government? However, if there is any truth to his claim, he is complicit in this scheme.
Sam who do you think you are fooling with your garbage talk that you are independent and non partisan.The only way you could be an integral part of an alleged scheme to sell diplomatic passports or to be selected to be an agent to sell CBI passports is because you were in the belly of these political parties.Cone on Sam start talking some sense man.You are a liar and you are willing to sell your country for money and fame.
Wait isn’t the sale of diplomatic passports illegal? So if this story is true then he is basically confessing to aiding and abetting illegal activity?
“They did not have the opportunity to deliver on the sale but they sold diplomatic passports.”
How does that work? At best that would be fraud, not the sale of diplomatic passports.
?
Sam Raphael was asked to produce evidence, by Lennox Linton and boy he has. Sam Raphael has outfoxed Lennox Linton by calling his bluff, now UWP supporters are crucifying him for doing so.
Whatever is the motives of Sam Raphael is open to conjecture and debate; however there is a harsh lesson to be learnt by Lennox Linton.
That lesson is THOSE WHO LIVE IN GLASS HOUSES SHOULD NOT THROW STONES.
Whatever the end results are; the outcome is MUD STICKS; and boy Lennox Linton and the UWP is going to have one hell of a job to shake off that ghastly monkey off their backs.
You must me a complete dunce to thing this is anything called evidence. Dominicans are really a stupid bunch of black people
where de evidence… lennox was in power in 2005….. you to tebeah, go cook a stone or sonething
I have always contended that Roosevelt Skerrit’s supporters are dim. Un fortunately they are in the majority in our little country and thiss explains the tagnation of our nation.
Sam Raohael could no longer digest the damages that are being done by the UWP he is a business man who needs Tourist to patronize some times he loves his country and wants improvement not tearing it down as Linton does
Sam does not love his country,Sam loves Sam.He will form an alliance with anyone even to selling the country legally or illegally to benefit Sam.
Judas iscariot one of the 12 apostles was asked by the authorities to identify Jesus for them by betraying him with a kiss for which he was paid thirty pieces of silver.He ultimately paid a price for his betrayal.History repeats itself with a difference.
That is a very silly comment. This is not a gotcha moment. The proof is here let us not down play it.
MONFARED, MONFARED, MONFARED !!! The proof is there, let us not downplay it.
The man was tired of hearing the pot calling the fryingpan black so why you are are crucifying him. God give him the power of boldness to speak so he did.Mr. Rapheal you did the right thing.
Oh how sad! How doomed we are! In GENERAL most politicians often behave similarly. It only depends on where they are at the time; which side of the divide. If it is wrong, it is wrong for all; and if we are guilty of the same, or attempting to do the same, then maybe we should remain quiet!
I do not understand the problem several posts seem to have with the fact that Sam worked with the (UWP) government to realize Jungle Bay, and now working with the (DLP) government to realize the new Jungle Bay? At the end of day he is worked/working with THE GOVERNMENT OF DOMINICA and playing a part in nation building. What’s wrong with that? We cannot pack up and cease our interests because the party we support is not in office! What good does this do for the development of our country?
Come on people, let us stop seeing matters of national interest in shades of red or blue. We can and must do better. As the former ambassador recently suggested on Q, this country is to politically…
…too politically polarized!
And the leader of the country must take responsibility for this,,especially after thirteen years in the saddle without seeing any improvement in this situation but see it deteriorate instead. He preaches unity and practices division.
We also cannot ignore our passports being sold to criminals, destroying our good standing in the world and pretending that everything is going to be alright. That’s the missing link here. I wish those blind political watch dogs on this post could comprehend that fact.
The evidence will stand up in court that is all in court it will be damning evidence yet for all it”s worth u guys ignoring the fact of the matter trying ti sound smart while defending a lost cause lol sad if u ask me the man is an insider that was privy to the inner dealings of the party he put out the innards of the party for all to see and u fail to grasp the crux of the matter pot calling kettle black in this case what they accusing the ruling party of (shady business involving Dominican passports) they where attempting to do the same yet they won’t in power so the all that noise was jus a front they were not up front with the people they claim to be defending that is an example of weaponizing the plight of a disgruntled few to pull the wool over the many that is a world class con job gone wrong well this is a day that will go down in Dominican history books if u ask me
Hold on to the wheel PM Skerrit
He can hold on to the wheel of his vehicle, not mine.
Obviously! you all don’t respect educated and people with money’s. Dr. Sam, and now Raphael, come where the jobs are, welcome to the winners circle Join MR. Skerrit and you are unto a 5 times winner
These diehard UWP supporters on this board just amaze me:
When Sam exposes your UWP party for playing the same game that you all accuse the DLP of playing, you all are busy shooting the messanger who exposed your UWP tricks. Should you all not be saying to yourselves: “Eh Las. Mea Culpa. Look Edison and the rest of the UWP hierarchy do this kind of thing too”!
Just let UWP get into power and they will be busy selling citizenship and diplomatic passports like the rest of them. They will give all elected members ministries and only give contracts to their friends. This seems to be the political culture regardless of the party. So UWP stop playing as if you all are saints!
What surprises me are those who lose all touch with their integrity to back a PM and a party who behave in the manner that they do.
Sam you right bro..ROLL WITH THE WINNERS ???
Mr Sam any way you put it, you are singing for your supper.
You getting help therefore you have to sing.
If you are upright as your words suggest, tell the government to stop bringing Dominica in the gutter.
By the way best wishes and hoping to have a drink at your new place.
Serious case of pot calling kettle back. What does the leader of the opposition have to say about these new findings?
To all those saying that Lennox Linton wasn’t a part of UWP in 2004, I feel sorry for you. You wear your ignorance as a badge of honor. This man has been with the party since its inception. Simple research would tell you that. Just ask him where he from, LOL!
Linton was very much involved with UWP’s deep, and dark dealings, he was maybe present too, when Prevost and the others went to look for sun to rise!
We have seen footage of Lennox and Earl Williams taking trips to St. Kitts to meet with potential passport candidates, we have seen the data. We know of Edo’s dealings with the Russians. His corruption brought Dominica neck-high in debt, resulting in strict actions taken against us by world super powers. Every few months Linton is in court defending his malicious lies. And the verdict is never in his favour. He needs to know it’s time to shut up!
UWP won’t fool their supporters for much longer. According to the man Prevost himself, “How long? Not long!
Sam Raphael is 12 years too late with the information, so his motives now has nothing to do with love for country.
Sam Raphael is as unpatriotic because he knew diplomatic passports were being sold and remained silent
Evidence against UWP like tower! Yet still I waiting for them to show proof of corruption in Skerrit camp they have been babbling about for years! UWP is the greatest boy!!! THE GREATEST FAILURES!
To Winston Paul. You’re the typical short-sighted Labourite. You’re still asking for evidence of corruption against the DLP ? Winston what type of evidence do you want again ? Several diplomats with Dominican passports that we knew absolutely nothing about found themselves on the wrong side of the law. People like you will deny the authenticity of the evidence even if it is was presented to you.
To Winston Paul. Offering a contract to a contracting firm without offering an invitation for tenders for the construction of the newly-built west bridge is clear evidence of corruption. This act was done in violation of the Contracts and Procurement Act. If you want more evidence of corruption by your Labour party I can submit more for your information.
First allu say the man lying and beg him to produce the evidence. Now that he did allu calling him a sell out? If is one set of people in this great big world you cannot please, is Dominicans!
Produced the evidence? What evidence?
Not evidence Linton wanted nuh?
1) Was the UWP in office in 2004? Could they have been able to “sell passports”?
2) Is this shining light on how these types of appointments often come about in the first place, not just in Dca but globally?
Now it is clear that there was a promise for diplomatic appointments in exchange for the funding, but yet the appointments never happened. So how exactly did the UWP sell the passports?
Sam, you often say that you are an international businessman and do not need to be in Dominica. How many more similar deals have you been privy to “to get you where you are today”?
Sounds like you were waiting for this moment because deep down you are just another greedy, country resource-robbing opportunistic monger. Deed down, none of you people have Dominica at heart. Deep down, all you people care about are your pockets and will pretend, manipulate and do whatever necessary to feed your greed.
What the h#@! did DOMINICA do to you people? What???!!!!!
Keep singing for our supper Sam. These are merely speculations because you have not provided any evidence to show any agreement between the UWP and these financial campaign donors. Copies of wire transfers proves nothing without any exchange of Diplomatic Passports. The contrast between the two is, there are copies of Diplomatic Passports that was sold to overseas criminals by the current cabal, and the public have seen images of these passports. You are fighting hard for your tax breaks for your upcoming business.
Laplaine observer
Are you for real. You think these are speculations? He has the receipts so what else do you want?? You can support your party if you so desire because that is your democratic right, but do not play party politics when it is convenient for you. If the shoe was on the other foot you would criticize the government. It is time to play fair and stop all these foolishness.
Please if you have proof please show us the copies of the diplomatic passports that were sold to criminals like you just stated.
You are being very hypocritical in this moment because here you are making statements with no proof. You are doing the same thing you are accusing others of.
That is the problem with this country every one believes they are an expert.
Be fair and be reasonable and stop this madness right now
This is so petty, don’t do it, and let me o it. Strangers shall clean your vineyard. The world get small. An Island with a population of just over 60,000 ,so roomy for all and left overs. You know ,long ago ,they feed lions with a live human. These people cannot even manage a nine year old child, so what would you know about diplomatic passport. A nine year old gone,missing,a nine year old at a police station by herself. Life is love, and love is life.
Sick it to them Sam. Now everyone knows who are the TRAITORS! Mouth open toery jump out.
When ##### and ###### just man get their cause, who stand to loose? We the People, Sing or not carry come carry go, is the worst kind of person to deal with. Judas sold Jesus for 35 pieces of sliver, in the end he went and commit ## win loose or Draw, Dominica Looses, more Ro, Ro, More Drama! he who laugh last laugh the best! YO tout say mem! Do mi in a, can!
Sam…..You have dig a deeper hole for yourself.
Skerrit will not want you near him or the inner cabal as he knows you cannot be trusted even if the story is true.
Worse even if you made it up.
This guy is the biggest SLAVE in Dominica although he made his money as a businessman.
No respect for this gentleman!!!!!
Real
When was the last time you interacted with skerrit? Is he your friend? How do you know what he want to hear or what he will not entertain.
What is the definition of a Slave? and how does Skerrit fit that criteria?
How do you know how he made his money? Other than speculation did you ever see his pay check?
Stop speculating and engaging in propaganda, and be real like your name suggested.
Do you interact with Skerrit? Is he your friend? Do you know what he wants to hear and what he will not entertain? If you do, I must surmise that you are a closer confidant than even his own wife.
Your assumptions are as real as the blogger you are responding to. By the way, the singular form of criteria is criterion.
Someone please give them a box of handkerchiefs each the wicked ones are all crying, All that bobohaha you guys been giving Dr Skerrit Pm all the years Dr Skerrit, didn’t cry! All the nasty names you guys called the Prime minister family, at least Mr Skerrit is not a tinpot spineless person as you lots are he is strong man and none of you haters could stand in his shoes……I am saying it as it is who do not like the truth too bad!
There is no dispute that Sam received money on behalf of the UWP,but Sam has not proven that the money was for the “sale of diplomatic passports”.Sam has to provide proof that the money was for the sale of passports.Sam on the other hand has discredited himself as less than a patriot
Will you stop calling Hon Prime Minister Dr. It sounds like you are stealing a handle for him. So lame!!!
Attention Dominica
You sound real idiotic because he is now a Doctor. Stop hating
Zezere, go and have your blood pressure taken by your Doctor, I’m sure he wont charge you for it.
Sam selling his soul for 10 pieces of silver, What a shame, ,Anyways, sam ,You sound like school children
We now know why your article was released today. After reading the Pampers Prime Minister’s budget intention, we know your share will be arriving very soon Sambo. Go ahead and sing for your supper. I would do the same thing. Integrity and love of country is secondary to your own personal interest. The National Choir now has a new member who sings tenor. Sambo Raphael.
You don’t want the truth. It burning you and others
Only a few months ago they loved you Sam for providing opportunities and jobs for the people; but that was not good enough for you. You had to tell them the truth also. Now they are livid, the UWP camp is in turmoil, their “lickle” minds totally discombobulated. Lesson learnt? If God told UWP supporters the truth, they would curse Him then commit suicide.
winston warrington you don’t know what you are talking about–please keep quiet man. But you have to put your two cents in.
so so true
I truly feel sorry for Mr. Sam Raphael at this point. Any man that sells his trust and loyalty to the highest bidder can never be trusted by anyone. Sam, who was once one of the biggest critic of Roosevelt Skerrit and the DLP is now their closest friend and defender for the reward of passport money. This is utterly shameful and a testament to Mr. Raphael’s despicable greed and untrustworthy character. Sam’s attempt to justify and excuse the appointment of six individuals who were SECRETLY appointed Diplomats of Dominica by the current DLP Administration and subsequently arrested for serious crimes ranging from financial fraud to money laundering and sanctions evasions by “stating” that opposition SOLD Diplomatic Passports 12 years ago is both misleading and pathetic. How can anyone compare the real life in-your-face appointment of “diplomats” that have brought shame, scrutiny and investigations to a PROMISE that was never fulfilled? Sam, you’ve done yourself more harm!
Surely Mr. Sam is liable for income tax on these monies received ?????
wait did he say Montfared for breakfast, lunch and dinner and montfared may overcome his troubles and come back and sue lennox. Mister you are a fool and u have no credibility there. Dominica is not the one that have Montfared in his troubles, that is international. Awa man you sound like the biggest idiot of all, best u shut up…
Sam is convinced that Monfared was arrested by Skerrit and Carbon, and will be on trial in Dominica, so he will be freed, and will return to sue Linton for Billions; then Linton will go bankrupt and kai poule kwazay for works!!! Whoy!!! What a thing.
What can I say Sam. Your buddy Roosevelt is even seeing Monfared in his dreams now. It is called a nightmare brother. And you are trying to convince us that is all Linton’s fault? Well, I’ll be damned, Linton must be a sorcerer and have more influence on Roosevelt’s state of mind than even his father confessor. Is that why the bishop came to bless your venture, to chase away the demons? I don’t know if he used holy water for that. Well Sam, I wish your project success and I mean that sincerely but you chose the wrong bed fellow my boy and I mean that sincerely also.
Sam Raphael’s statement lends further support for the call for POLITICAL PARTY FINANCE LAWS in Dominica. The late NAN Ducreay in his article in THE SUN newspaper in March 4 & 11 2002(republished in THE SUN of Monday July 10 at page 9-13) called for it .Chairman of the Former Integrity Commission of Dominica Julian Johnson in his address to the DAIC in 2009 called for it . Roosie Douglas in his inaugural address to the nation in January 2000 called for it . Norris Prevost in his contribution to the IPO Act 2003 in Parliament in April 2003 called for it. The Barbados government has passed legislation on it. What is the Parliament of Dominica waiting for? UNLESS AND UNTILL WE HAVE POLITICAL PARTY FINANCE LAWS all these fellas who are fighting each other to govern us will use these international crooks to finance their campaigns.
Mr. Raphael made mention that we get Monfared for breakfast, lunch and dinner by the Opposition, UWP, and fails to mention the difference with the actual appointment of these shady diplomats i.e., Ng Lap Seng, Francesco Corrallo, Rudolph King, Allison Madueke, etc., and his allegations of PROMISES made for Diplomatic Passports. If these promises were materialized then Sam would surely have a case to make here but, by Sam’s own admission, NOTHING came of these alleged promises. This, of course, does not excuse the UWP if offering diplomatic passports or positions in exchange for money were truly the party’s intentions at the time. Sam presents evidence of the movement of money but that by itself does not prove what the money was for. Mr. Raphael’s biggest shortcoming, however, is his failure to mention that he was, is, and/or is slated to be, one of the major beneficiaries of the sale of Dominica’s most sacred document…it’s passports. Convenient huh?
I fully support this.
Hahahahaha…What causes Man to credit his integrity to another? This is shameful and Sam Raphael should have never come out with such information particularly because he was part and parcel of the shenanigans..
What is the use of this information if he has not condemned the practice of selling Diplomatic Passports regardless of who does it? It seems as if Sam came with this information to say that if both are doing it, then it is okay for the country..What is the point Sam, if not only to try to shame the UWP or Lennox Linton..
My brother this does not put to right the situation created by the current administration, where it is proven the damage done to Dominica’s credibility..How can Sam not comment on that at all? Sam just damaged his image and his integrity..his business will potentially suffer as a result..it’s scary how Skerrit seem to have the power to buy out even the most devoted and divine Dominicans..Others stay silent!!
Since Sam was able to remember the persons in attendance and knew how to contact them then – i am assuming it will not be to difficult for him to contact them now and get a statement from them regarding the monies they allegedly gave the opposition. Why hasn’t he? He should very easily be able to put the names of the “high ranking” opposition members who were in Zurich out in the public domain as well. He has no conscience, so to hide behind “many families will be hurt or get hurt” is LAME!!!
Those figures sound a lot like the cost that Jungle Bay was selling their investment for at time. Sam clearly stated that 3 million was received in his previous rant, how comes he is only reporting transaction evidence for approximately 1.25 million? Are the remaining funds still to come?
Its highly hypocritical of SAM to come and call for unity now, when he, according to him was involved in attempting to sell Dominica Diplomatic passports to “people of questionable character”! Where was your love for country when that happened? Where was your conscience?
Firstly, Lennox Linton was not a part of the UWP in 2004 – therefore he isn’t responsible for the alleged “Prominent Business Owners”.
Secondly, if what Sam is saying is true – how can we be sure he hasn’t used his “same method” to lead the ruling party to “Zurich” to meet with potential buyers?
Thirdly, that is very little money – peanuts for a diplomatic passport. Actually, each individual payment is less than one would purchase a regular passport from St. Kitts or Antigua – Why would anyone sell a Diplomatic passport so cheaply (i Know the benefits of a diplomatic passport)? IF someone was selling that document and found willing buyers, surely, they would be thinking of Millions!
Lennox asked for evidence and the man delivered now you all want to crucify him.
Understand, that it is clear that Sam received money on behalf of the UWP. Lennox Acknowledges that. The evidence required is to prove that these monies were indeed for Diplomatic Passports, which even Sam says that were never delivered..So really it’s impossible for Sam to prove what he’s alleging as there were no DP issued, and one must ask them self, why would a SMART man like Sam come forward with such allegations knowing very well that he can’t provide proof..so effectively it’s your word against mine now.
This seems more like a distraction perpetrated by Sams new masters..Ask yourself, how did SAM become so vestedly interested in the issue? He must have some interest to protect..The love of money is truly the root of all Evil
where did Sam deliver the evidence? At you home?. I have not seen or read the evidence.
Why are you all labourites are deliberately being so vague.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NOW
The same way Lennox delivered his EVIDIENCE to you is the very same way Sam delivered his evidence. You are sick and need help.
Kid, and you are blind and need to see Dr. Hazel.
Am in love you your body
Is SAM saying that corruption is OKAY because UWP did it so why can’t Labour do it? Sam no matter who does it it is wrong. Stop defending corruption because someone else did it. This is SICKENING. UWP did it its WRONG, Labour does it it is WRONG!
Are you assuming?
Are any of the UWP supporters concerned about the information being inseminated? After all, they spend the better part of the decade accusing the DLP of corruption, which they have not proved. Here it is they are presented with solid facts all because Linton asked Sam to produce it, they crying down the messenger. What hypocrisy! We all know that Lennox is not the sharpest knife in the box but for crying out loud, be quiet if you know you are guilty. I can’t wait to hear his sad response because he will keep talking. He knows that his people will bail him out while he enjoys his money.
Correction: “Disseminated”
What do you deem to be “solid facts”.Sam has only blown hot that yes,he received money on behalf of the UWP,but he has not proven that it was specifically for the sale of diplomatic passports.As a matter of fact Sam said that the UWP lost the election and didn’t,and couldn’t deliver any passports.If a man plans to rob a bank but pulls out and no bank was broken into, would you accuse him of being a bank robber and would you say he broke into the bank.Go figure,with your solid facts which are more than fiction
Look like SLAVERY has just begun in Dominica.
I hop we are wise enough to see that Sam will swing to any party for his personal gain.
Sam, I now know that you are an IDIOT, but you need to explain, step by step to the nation how a party in opposition can SELL Diplomatic passports.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NOW
The important thing here is Mr. Raphael speaking the truth? The UWP and its operatives are always quick to advise to focus on the message not on the messenger, but as usual they never follow their own advice. It is all in order for Lennox to expose wrong doings using questionable sources and unsubstantiated allegation. But when we get someone coming forward claiming to be an eye witness to activities by the UWP in relation to the sale of Diplomatic passports that person is vilified. It is time that the leadership of the UWP gets off its lofty perch and stop acting as if it is without sin.
This is a Money Laundering Offence under the MLPA Act 8 of 2011. Sam and all the alleged should be investigated and charged for Money Laundering. Sam you have exposed our local banks to more intense scrutiny from international correspondence banks. I’m afraid for my Dominica with this Passport Thingy… Jah boy.. Everybody want a piece of it…
I see it has changed…
Sam what goes around comes around, I listened to you reading the script, and listening to your reading you sounded like a grade three student, , you are being used, didn’t you listened to the former ambassador from Grand Bay?, Sam they will use you, abuse you to spew their verbal diarrhea attack on Mr Linton, after doing all their dirty work for them, yes they will pay you, however that money will torment you, for it is the root of all evil, lies, deceit etc, it won’t be l8ng before they reject you from their club, one thing for sure, they are not trusting you, time will tell sam, time will tell
No Sam, they are planning to take over that development themselves. What can you do. If you can not raise the money to finish it they will buy it for a soft price. They have you by the short and curlies my friend. You are dealing with an evil empire. I am sorry but it is your own doing.
Sam,i am totally disappointed in you.
Again you are being ysed to do their dirty work for them?
I quess you are looking for favours for your hotel
Be careful that you will not be hunted and miserable for the rest of your life and your business will not be washed away like Erica washed placces and people away and never be restored.
The next thing you need to tell us,is HOW MUCH YOU GOT PAID FOR SPEWING THIS TRASH OUT OF YOUR UGLY MOUTH
So basically, nothing happened?
and if anything did, you’d be liable of aiding in corruption? Didn’t need a statement to state that
Guess he has to do what he was told to do, irrespective of whether he is implicated or not.These are the Doninican men I SHALL never emulate.He could not even read the material.Guess thats Sam showing his true colour.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NOW
UWP was wrong to give you the 6 million dollar loan.
But I would never spend a cent at jungle bay.
Sam hope you listened to Linton on Sunday night. He produced evidence in profusion. Your foolishness here seem to be almost ten people involved in a PHANTOM SALE of diplomatic passport,but all seem to have just one name, LENNOX LINTON. INCREDIBLE!!!!Were you given a job to go get at Honourable LENNOX LINTON? Who were the two prominent UWP leaders? Why were you involved is such a scheme?
Your harangue, mentioned overwhelming evidence?.What were the passport NUMBERS? When were they issued?.
It is shameful that an individual like you that people used to look up to, can afford yourself to be used to the extent that people are publicly laughing at your confounded idiocy and foolishness.
I see this entire thing as an attempt to use you as a slave to get at LINTON, but these people must be laughing at you, because your entire credibility is now in tatters.
I still FIRMLY DISMISS your gibberish and firmly believe that you are an idiot.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NO
% SKERRIT MUST GO NO You’re so right.
Don’t get waylaid!! MONFARED, MADUEKE, CORALLO, LAP SENG and others. All received diplomatic passports from Skerrit, real ones, and all were apprehended by police overseas. It is Roosevelt Skerrit that has given our country a bad name and even Sam’s attempt at diversion does not change that.
It would be much easier if he ( , had sent in his JOB APPLICATION to Skearat, for a job as a garbage truck driver.
Sing for your supper
And in the process his credibility rating is getting into tatters. I once respected him.
Sorry Sam, you do not deserve my respect ANYMORE. Cant believe that big men can reduce themselves as slaves to be used by others. You are an idiot.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NOW!
It is altogether possible that Mr. Raphaels’ assertions are correct. However, they can not be substantiated without disclosure of the names of the individuals involved in such a scheme, one of whom would be mr. Raphael himself as a facilitator.
In any case, this still does not constitute a sale but a promise only, to be fullfilled on certain conditions being met, the most substantial of which would have been an electoral win by the opposition UWP. As such it is no more than a wager. Such actions, if true are deplorable and need to be condemned.
I suspect that Mr. Raphael is held over a barrel, as the disbursement of CBI funds for his Jungle Bay project are at the mercy of our Prime MInister and I do not envy his position.
I don’t believe he was held over any barrel but like you said there could be some truth in what he says. However he should correct that to say that promises were made instead of passports were sold. I am not easily persuaded but this time, as we like to say there is no smoke without fire. I believe though that he has not named any individuals because he knows that whatever was done was not an official uwp thing and that some of the individuals involved were/are not true supporters. After if you have all this evidence there should be no difficulty it calling names. What Sam has done is to taint the entire party while trying to be protect a few individuals and this is deliberate.
So is that why the Labour party doing the same because workers did it…Corruption is corruption i don’t care what party that is there…
So Sam benefitted then under UWP and now he looking out for himself and all with the DLP he comes out with that. Well Sam I cannot wait for you not to be benefitted from DLP so we can get some of your bombshell tht you have on then.. sigh, sing for your supper eh
You are missing the point, the constant calls by the leadership of UWP for Skeritt and his government to go is based on the premise that Skeritt and his government are selling diplomatic passports to crooks, now we are learning through an eye witness that the UWP might be guilty of doing the same thing. The UWP has no moral or political authority to speak on this issue. If the Skerrit lead DLP is a criminal enterprise the UWP lead by Linton is also a criminal enterprise.
Sam you a self righteous opportunist. Your utterances above reveal that you do anything to elevate your business opportunities. What the UWP did was wrong and you were involved. What the Labour party is doing is wrong and you involved. What it tells me you are involve in political sale of passports to benefit you and your so called private business. Now you talking about some of the stuff is damaging to people at home and abroad which indicates it was illegal. If it is so damaging why would the attorney general hold that information from the public and why would you suggest the AG hide evidence? Let the public know and let the chips settle independently. You seem to believe development is by any means necessary. The only way this corrupt practice will stop is when people pay dearly. Be it labourites or UWP they must be exposed and punished. These retarded Caribbean politicians need start using thier brains.
Guess what labor party will not be in power forever. Will you jump on next train and bring evidence also? You are no different from the politicians. They play the country, you playing them. Like I said in previous post, you should develop your business independent of politics. That’s the nasty stuff that happens when the interest of the country is mixed or confused with personal interests.
Well Sam you are not to be trusted if you can do this to UWP as a week link what make you think they will
trust you in the Labour Camp Shame you have just made a fool of your self we the intelligent people of Dominica have sense in our heard . You are being used and you need to open your eyes because right now nobody will trust you.
Sam Raphael has to be a perfect Jack to believe that Manfared will get out of that trouble and return to DA to sue Linton, to sing that much for your supper Sam tells me how hungry you are. Good luck Sam, we go see
mister acting like if Linton that have Montfared in the huge legal troubles and criminal troubles that he is in now. Awa that Sam whoever he is is a sick man.. Garcon, Montfared troubles are way above you head, u need to go and testify for Montfard too.. No mister sick
No worries Sam.I would sing for my supper too.
Sing is joke! I would even write the song.
i sometimes wonder, “WHY IS BLACK MAN SO EASY TO BUY?
Because many of them are greedy, and must do the bidding of their masters.
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO
SKERRIT MUST GO NOW
Oh my boy, that is really hurtful. You know what. it is because we are people of principle and our principle is “Name your price”. The same thing happening all over in Africa itself and people fleeing to the white man’s country as refugees, risking their lives. I can not really talk about it because it makes me too upset.