Political leader of the UWP Lennox Linton has vowed to “continue the protest action” as his party seeks an audience with the chief elections officer and the chairman of the electoral commission.
“We have been there for over an hour waiting to meet with them…they promised to meet with us but are gone. Take note that this is far from over, ” Linton said as the crowd which had grown, started shouting, “We want justice.”
Also addressing the crowd, was Dr. Thompson Fontaine, who contested the Grand Fond seat which the UWP claims was “stolen”.
“We will not relent; they have cheated and we will file complaints to the police so they can be criminally charged,” Dr. Fontaine said. He continued, “They stole the Grand Fond seat and you must not be intimidated by the police.”
Police wearing riot gear and armed with guns and batons were at the ready at the electoral commission compound.
Below are some photos of the event. Photos by Carlisle Jno Baptiste.
because u all loose
and so anxious to be in the house u all are so wicked and u all again are so jealous of the P M , u all knows u loose and dont want to admit YOU ALL ARE BLUE VEX ? GO TO HELL
When one adopte a slogan ( CHANCE IS A MUST ) you make the electorate believe that the election has already has already been won. What a foolish slogan!!! Mr Linton has to make the noise to save face. He has to do it to cover up his incompetent. Mr Linton has support but the Government has more. So it is very disrespectful to Dominicans when Mr Linton suggested that the election was won by illegal overseas voters. If that is the case, it will just show how narrow Mr Linton’s support is. Sorry Mr Linton, Mr Hector and what’s his name? The Grand Fond one. You guys have started your 2020 campaign on a wrong footing.
The Chief Elections Officer and the Chairman of the Commission cannot change a decision of the Returning Officer with respect to the winner of a particular constituency. Once the Returning Officer has transmitted his/her certificate of the results of the poll and the writ authorizing the poll duly returned to the President, there is nothing in law that can be done unless the aggrieved parties go to the court. The High court is the only authority with the power to reverse a decision of the Returning Officer regarding the results of a poll. That is the law. I am sure Mr. Linton knows, Mr. Fontaine Knows. Mr. Joshua Francis Knows. Mr. Gildon Richard Knows. Mr. Joffre Letang knows and Mrs. Unica Victor knows. The aggrieved party (Thompson Fontaine) must now file a case before the High Court as he has so indicated and prepare to file the proper evidence to prove his complaint of gross irregularities.
What is happening now on the streets of Roseau is against the Public order Act. The illegal demonstrations that are planned cannot be condoned. How can Mr. Linton expect to march tot eh electoral office with his 40,000 of his “very angry supporters” for a meeting with two individuals? What is the real intention? Is it to have a disciplined, mutually respectful discussion or is it designed to create mayhem and confusion in the hope that the authorities miscalculate and retaliate with brut force thus presenting the opposition with an issue? The opposition knows that they hold significant sway among the rank and file of the Dominica Police force. It is safe to deduce that the opposition holds the support of as much as 70% of the police. Are they testing their strength?
Gentlemen, what are your motives? Dominica is greater than all of us. Mr. Linton is on the public record saying that there are laws in this country that must be adhered to by both government and opposition. Check his remarks when he spoke at Pottersville following his party’s marched around Roseau sometime during the campaign. Observe the law of the land Mr. Linton. Go to the authority that has the legal responsibility to give you what you want – provided always you provide the evidence to prove your cause.
Question does Dominica now have an armed police force? That is a very backward move one to be regretted.
Under what rock you come out country bookie? Dominica has ALWAYS had a armed police force. Do you know of a police force any where in the world that’s not armed?
Ok i would not say that they are to leave it alone, if Mr. fountain s certain that he had enough votes, to win, and the ballots were good ballots then the UWP should fight this by asking for an injunction on all the ballot boxes and the boxes be counted in a court of law as this would prove the government had cheated and a by election would have to be called. Protest are a democratic right of the people to right wrongs, without protest by the Ancestors we would still be slaves, the Kalinago would still be uneducated, so yes in any democratic country protest is a right of the people, and if the people know for certain that a wrong was committed by all means protest, and the police are to support and protect the people, because tomorrow policemen it will be you fighting the government for pay or better working conditions, and you will want the support of the people, so people support one another in the fight for right. However is thompson knows that he just did not do enough to win the seat, and the other guy won fair and square, accede defeat, and work harder in the constituency and fight another day. Thompson can still play a part in parliament as a senator and he can use his education to establish some sort of consultancy in the country . Otherwise, Lennox and his team should demonstrate that they are the best party and behave with dignity, go to the house, be sworn in, then give them intellectual hells in parliament, it will mean work researching and questioning, return democracy to the house, inspire and impress.
Liars the Elections was FREE and FAIR yr liling tongue will judge you all. I went to vote and there were TWO UWP supporters outside each one had a copie of the voters list. They put a cross by the voters name when vote, how comes you end up with dead ppl name on the list, and WHO vote for the dead. I think you all need to see Dr Benji for treatment.
Will Benji be honest? You should recall that he declared his support for UWP on DNO.
If charkes savarin had balls like he had in 79 .those fullishnesss that are happening now would never happen
shame shame shame…..
Charles Savarin is now the President. I would think that this does not fall under his jurisdiction. Surely you should know about that.
This situation raises an interesting question regarding democracy in Dominica. When there is a conflict of interest which is the greater power? the will of the people or the constitution and upholding the rule of established laws?
The Westminster model is clear that the rule of law and the constitution is above EVERYTHING, The institutions of the state and the law makers vigorously prosecute ANY infringements, by whoever chooses to challenge it.
In Dominica right now, the Prime Minister is right, there are no laws or constitution that can prevent him from doing as he pleases.
The laws and constitution of Dominica says it is against the law to offer or give inducements to influence votes. The law also says it is against the law for accept inducements for votes.
The law also says that Government Funds cannot be used by a political party to fund a political campaign.
Elections are won or lost for a variety of reasons, and the most significant contribution to the success of the Labour Party in the December 2014 election was the vast sums of money lavished on their campaign and as there is no accounting or declarations regarding the source of the massive sums of money, one can only surmise the instruments of government was used to garner at least some of that massive war chest.
in any event the laws of the country were broken, and the constitution was abused, and if the guardians of
the law and the constitution, cannot or will not prosecute the upholding of the law, then Dominica is on a very slippery slope.
I posed the initial question because there appears to be a conflict of interest, on the one hand the people have spoken (the majority vote), they endorsed the Labour Party and support and condone their methods even if it is law breaking and tearing up of rules of the constitution, and on the other hand you have the Minority opposition, protesting, citing the rule of law and the constitution is in jeopardy and is crying out for justice and transparency in all aspects of the rule of law.
Judging by the majority of the commentators, the opposition should just give up and accept the results of the elections even though it may be tainted, and pack up and go home.
Dominicans, be careful what you wish for. The Westminster model of democracy is the best in the world by a distance and demonstrates on a daily basis that we are all equal in the eyes of the law, and it is there to protect everyone.
To prevent the breaking of the laws, in facilitating or inducing people to vote for a particular party, is one of the fundamental purpose of Dominica’s Constitution.
So at this point in time, it appears that the will of the people, the voting majority, is more powerful the the rule of law and the constitution.
I do think that some of you misinterpreted what the PM had stated. It all depends what he stated which caused him to make that statement. When you do not support a Party and a member of that Party this is what you people do. Everything they state is questionable on your part. They can never say and do anything correctly. You are bias toward them.
What makes you think it is lawbreaking? Fontaine is of the opinion that he lost the votes which he was entitled to. Fontaine was so certain that he would be victorious in that riding. What made him so sure of that? What makes him think he is better than Stephenson or campaigned better than him? Granted, the votes were close but he must understand that he did not win the election.
If I am not mistaken, the votes were counted three times and the results were identical – he lost and Stephenson was the elected MP. Fontaine cannot accept he was defeated by a few votes, a marginal. Why can’t Fontaine accept that?
What type of Party is that? Whether they are wrong, everything is a criticism and a fight. In fact, they never think they are wrong. They think that DLP is always wrong; not them. Do they not know how to take this to the Lord in prayer?
Unfortunately, Lennox has no choice but to do what Edison James wants done and what they know best to do, agitate antagonize demonstrate criticize protest etc all of which are building blocks for anti progress backward moving in what he knows best to be a negative mindset. This is what his party has assigned themselves for 15 yrs now and they have little to show for it, but this is what happens when you are not genuine and you don’t have a real plan and you have no real alternatives and you have ulterior motives using the poor minded people to advance your agenda, but thank God those who are wiser are on the other side, God bless the DLP Skerrit and Dominica. Evil cannot pay nor succeed.
we need to come out in large numbers to let this one man no we are not afraid of him and the police we need to stop this nonsense that happening in this country people when ever you all a call please come out they still us we can make them uncomfortable lets demand justice
God blessed Dominica, if the dlp had won by a close margin it would’ve been a disaster for our country the uwp supporters would’ve been causing riots entire Dominica, the current administration in Barbados won by a single seat if was Dominica there would have been riots.
Hector I can’t believe why you would be supporting Lenin in such a poorly arranged activity.this goes to show that you have not learnt anything and wish to remain a follower. Lenin is bitter and disappointed at the outcome. He believed he would have been PM but this is not the case.. He is hurting from a psychological beating which he can’t seem to fathom..after all he painted the PM as a monster and he still remains the PM . This is the harsh reality that Lenin has to deal with everyday and it is hard… His ego has been weakened..
Now that the elections are over and the government side has been sworn in; I look forward to the opening of parliament. Democracy is alive and well in Dominica.
I wish the new government a very production 5 years, always putting God in everything they will be doing. This opposition has already started on the wrong foot, but I hope the change they campaigned about we will see that change in parliament.
Good luck to all the members of parliament. The DLP is the right party for the government and Dominicans should be very proud that they voted the right way.
The UWP is the party that should be in opposition and that is where they are and I hope they will be an effective opposition better than they were in the last parliament.
Madame Speaker I cannot wait for the opening of parliament. All the Best.
@ Doubting Thomas: A Gov’nt in office for 15 years yet they need 5000 overseas voters to make them win?
A Gov’nt transporting building materials and distributing LPO’S like wild fire Just to win an election?
A Gov’nt spending 32 million dollars just to win an election?
Is this BRIBERY or just pure DESPERATION?
Finally just what is this Government hiding and afraid to lose?
What a democracy!
@ Roseau North Possie Why the hypocrisy? Everything you are trying to accuse the Labor Party of doing is for 1. What you all the UWP has introduced to Dominica(the buying of votes, flying in voters etc etc etc) This elections you all brought people in to vote also. Just that you all broke so you all couldn’t bring in as much as you all would of liked too. And 2. The giving out of building materials and distributing LPO’s, let’s not forget how Antilles Cement went bankrupt doing exactly that to bring in UWP when the won back in 1995. So stop being a sore loser and accept that the majority of Dominicans have spoken and don’t want UWP clowns and have VOTED in the Labor Party.
This is sick. Really. even if you obtained Grand Fond you would still be the opposition. i agree with Diaspora paying there own tickets but they have a right to vote. Linox stop being a hot head and for once do the responsible thing. You are looking like a sore looser. Making people like me regret i voted for you all, Go to the house and represent us and contribute to improving the level of debate. I am really really really disappointing in this and and seeing signs of powerful team disintegrating. Are you going to damage everything you touch. I mean
You lie you did not vote Mr. Linton.
It is time that Dominicans stand up for what the majority claims as illegal.
Questions: (1) How could a population of 69,000 have a voter registration list of 72,000?More than the population?
(2) How could a Government decide to spend $32,000,000 on a campaign? A country with 69,000 with people unable to meet their basic needs? We need campaign financing legislation.
(3) How could a Government invite a few of the greatest artist like Beres Hammond, Carimi,Destra etc while its local acts just watch.
(4) Where is all this money from and from who?
(5) Why would a Government at the eve of election have TRUCK loads of building materials going to all villages especially Carib Reserve? Isn’t that bribery?
MY God Save us from this new dictator!!
At least they gave them buliding supplies if what you say is true. But you forget UWP gave them conrcurls?
What is good for the goose is also good for the gander all you bias people writing under false names.There would be war had it been the other way around.Dominicans open your eyes and stop condoning wrong.
Because the observers were around the police didn’t have guns. Other times their big guns in their hands and they agitating the crowd.
Mr. Linton have you sought legal advice from the esteemed lawyers on Team Dominica? Have these professional lawyers advise you to under take such an foolish approach to getting your grievances heard? I doubt it. I don’t think a gentleman such as Mr. Joshua Francis or a professional lady like Mrs. (Ms) Eunica Anthony Victor would advise or condone such behavior. Your ego is clouding your judgment. Sir in my opinion you are only seeking your own personal interest while hiding behind the so called fight for Democracy. And Mr. Fontaine is following you blindly even though he knows the truth. But is deba all you like anyway.
Linton and Fontaine please get a life, the people spoke move on..
skerro said 15 mnths!!! I am giving this party 12 mnths to self destruct…after this weak demonstration boycotting of the house will follow…waste of votes..,,but not my vote nuh I represent hard in d Roseau Valley
The weather is too bright and hot for you. What a shame that Lennox who is now an elected member of Parliament has to conduct himself in such a manner. What a shame that Fontaine is also conducting himself in similar manner. These people are on the warpath. What troublemakers. It was their intention that if both of them lost, what they would do. That was their plan. They refused to trust and accept the final ballot count.
You know, that is pride and false pride that Lennox and Fontaine had already thought prior to the election that Fontaine of all would win. Pride comes before the fall.
Fontaine lost by 8 votes. It was not one vote that he could have rightfully contested but 8 votes? Common Fontaine, accept your loss and let Dominica and nationals live in peace and harmony.
So prior to going to Court as they intend, they want answers. This does not make sense. If you want to go to Court, go to Court and do so, respectfully, in a dignified manner and silently. Why demonstrate and include Dominicans, your supporters in it? Life must go on.
Lennox is also using this forum to vent his anger and disappointment at not being elected Dominica’s prime minister.
The Dominica Media is having a field day with this News. This will increase your readers and viewers. I am wondering if those in other parts of the West Indies of all are present. Or they may be viewing and reading the Dominica News as it unfolds to broadcast and publish to their nationals. Dominica is being shamed by those two main participants of this demonstration. May God put a hand to end this.
u too bias.you know well what happened is not right,.
You all are troublemakers and imagining what did not take place.
You have your opinion and think you are correct more than I.
I have my opinion based on the results and what I read. Fontaine did not win and that is that. It is time for him to concede defeat.
A lot of you, in commenting put your feet in your mouth. You never know that your very words will condemn you and punish you. Be careful what you state and be careful of the words that you throw.
You are like the perfect slave
I wonder if you would sing the same “song” if that had happened to Skerrit party. You are so naive, its just not funny. You need to change your name. The Facts? lol. you tipping. Will and come again.
Sorry tripping*
The Caribbean News media are in fact having a field day on the many contracdictions better known as lies that the Skerrit adminstration have been putting forward pre-election and now post election. First lie Skerrit said he will dissassociate himself iff it could be proven that DLP brought in overseas voters however his chief strategest Hartley Henry has since said live on radio he in fact organize that from Barbados. In fact I would not waste time in pointing others this one is enough FACTS.
@ Michael…Because it is a protest and you don’t know when peaceful would turn into violence.Especially in this time as it is still fresh in their minds and most of their heads and hearts are heated and broken..
Yes! They are hot heads and what with the hot weather in Dominica. Anything could happen at anytime.
these 1500 dollar police ppl believe they run things. dam idiots
You are the idiot to make this nonsensical comment. Your house should be in that vicinity. If so, you would appreciate the police presence.
very proud of people who won’t be easily paid off, sewoed off, or threatened off. finally Dominican people are starting to wake up and realize they shouldn’t swallow all they’re being fed!
I thought going by their name Team Dominica, they were suppose to be taking Dominica Forward and not fighting over a clearly lost seat. Come on Mr Linton put down your armed mind and thoughts work with the PM and continue to move the country forward. The least you can do for the country and the people
If it was the other way around you would be in the demonstration.We are in a Democratic country.all rights to demonstrate if and when they are not satisfied especially when comes to the affairs of his or her country.Have you forgotten Charles Saverin and today he is president?
Dear friends democracy comes with justice, justice comes with peace. To be a domocratic country we must be free to stand for our right. Your vote is your voice and your civic right. Our ancestors fought for it thats why we can vote today. We need to stand for generations to come. I see a dictator in the making, the man have even bought the churches, the law abiding officers, unions, and NGO, my God where are we in our country. Lord , Jeovah God save Dominica.
Listened with interest to the swearing in of the ministers and the rhetoric of Bishops and Pastors and the PM.
NO PEACE IN THIS ISLAND UNLESS YOU KISS THE SHOE.
Yess it is time for less talk and action in Dominica keep the pressure on do not give up the fight brothers and sisters.the electoral c board need to resign now.
Lennox Gar con you are showing poor judgement on some of the decisions you are making. If you have a problem with the electoral office please do things in a professional manner.
1 First you write an official letter asking for an audience
2. Let them contact you and then set a date for meeting
3. After the meeting depending on what transpires you inform your party
4. Then you seat together and come to a consensus on the way forward
Lennox you must be careful as leader because some of your actions can lead to serious destruction of state property where you as leader will be held responsible.. People cannot just assume what can come out of a protest.. remember people are agitated from elections, and the way you are behaving you are making things worst. That is not how you get problems resolved Lennox… yu cannot want to solve problems with violence and demonstrations all the time… garcon settle down, evaluate yourself and your party and plan how to take Skerrit down in the next 5 years… your leadership style is certainly not helping you… your supporters need to tell tell instead the go following you and doing things wrong.
The courts are there for redress, go to court…. Hello 2014 is not the era of Patrick John, dont let anyone fool you… Dominicans will run their mouths and when trouble start they running and hide… Take my advise and stop the agitating and manage your party with class… Presently UWP looking and sounding like crycry babies.
they wont be allowed to set the agenda….
Too hot to handle
I believe that all efforts should be made by the electoral commission to continue the process of regularising any areas which they can with due haste and they should keep up the effective education which they undertook prior to elections. Call on people to come in with information and supporting evidence on dead relatives and other ineligible voters etc. and keep the population informed on the efforts which they are making.
I am under the impression though that according to the law, the submission by the Returning officer after an election is final and any objections after the recounts have to be taken to the courts.
In the circumstances, I’m not sure what is expected of the Electoral commission at this point. Should the chairman and members of the Electoral commission be sitting by their radios and listen to the station on which the UWP leader is speaking to hear that he is coming down to talk to them, then leave their offices and go and sit in the electoral office to await the arrival of the esteemed leader? Or should a process be followed to get an appointment and attend with a delegation, if the commission can do anything at all at this stage?
Think about it folks.