Ambassador Aaron’s statement on MV Ruby Elaine

Aaron

October 20, 2010 – Today, I want to say that the Government’s side has been correct all along.  We have been telling the truth all along about the M. V. Ruby Elaine and its crew in Venezuela. Patience is a virtue and our patience paid off.

I, as Ambassador have been in contact with the M. V. Ruby Elaine all along directly with Captain Carbon, directly with the Port Master in Venezuela, and indirectly through my counterpart Her Excellency Carmen Martinez de Grijalva whom I want to thank for her cooperation and friendship.

Unfortunately, it’s all cynicism all the time with the Workers Party. It’s all conspiracy theories all the time.

I have been tapping into my diplomatic experience confirming that Captain Carbon and the crew of the M. V. Ruby Elaine were not in harm’s way, while not putting the story of Captain Carbon out. Why? As a matter of principle. Because I was taking the long view and the high road just in case Captain Carbon needed to approach the financial institutions to deal with his private business matters, the waters would not be muddied. I think that is the ethical thing to do.

Unfortunately, there is a poisoned atmosphere out there in some political camps. There is a section of the media that is captive to other people’s agendas. The UWP is in a state of all out war against Dominica for electing the DLP back to office. They seem to have sworn that if they cannot win power, they will trash Dominica.

I know that it is not me that they are after. They are after Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. They will trample me if they have to. They hi-jacked Captain Carbon’s story to make political hay. They didn’t care if it hurt Carbon’s chances of transacting business with the private sector. Even Dominica is just collateral damage to them. To them, Dominica’s good name, Dominica’s diplomacy and foreign policy are not too high a price to pay in their pursuit of power.

One day after Captain Carbon said on that his crew was not being held hostage, Honourable Edison James, Member of Parliament for Marigot and President of the Workers Party read a prepared statement to Kairi FM Radio in which he repeated the terms, “hostage ” and “captivity.”

I am a long time observer of Dominica politics. Were it not so, I would ask Honourable Edison James to present his evidence to back up his statement of September 24 that the crew was held hostage but Mary Eugenia Charles of blessed memory might say sarcastically from beyond the grave, “wespewe toujou.” Wait still.

And on the same day, October 19, 2010 that Captain Carbon put out a statement clearing the air, Opposition Leader, Honourable John charged “bribery.”

Again, I would ask Honourable Hector John to retract his charge of bribery but he lacks the judgment and the leadership experience to do so.

I could ask the UWP to follow Captain Carbon’s honourable example and apologize but that would be espwa mal papay—a pipe dream.

It’s blind leading the blind in the Workers Party.

But in the rest of the world, in the end, the truth wins out.

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26 Comments

  1. BRING EM YOUNG
    October 22, 2010

    Well ,well. well Political properganda has reached a new hight.Individuals who were relegated to the ASH CAN of histoiry are now elevated to the hights of INTERLECTUALS.
    What made IDI AMIN an interlectual, so is Mussolini, Adolf Hitler, Baby Doc etc etc Paid to protect as your name suggest who has paid you to elevate the status of those despicable people.Your blog is definitely the most bias commentary in the annals of DNO
    Are you suggesting that Raza PAVLI aka Shar of Iran was an interlectual, shame on your

  2. MANCHAT!!!!
    October 21, 2010

    @Embarrassed:Absolutely,Carbon needed help,and exactly so,he petitioned the Govt.,and they refused and the time…Pussyfooting and giving him the run around.
    The Guy became desperate, and frustrated in his plight. So naturally ,he went to the media, and rightly so i might add, after all his efforts through the proper channels failed……

    Don’t worry,Carbon,did not come off looking like the fool…the Govt. man,and the Govt. did…Carbon did what he had to do considering the circumstances…His primary concerns are his vessel and its’ crew.
    They set this whole thing up, trying to save face,by trying to belittle Carbon.The fact of the matter is ,it did not work.(DEM DRAW BAD CARD).
    Truthfully,the Govt.man made a complete fool of himself. The things he said,and the way in which he said them,were despicable,to say it mildly.
    I really have to wonder if he does know what ”diplomat,and “diplomacy” means..,because he is quite lacking in those terms…..Frankly,that Govt.man has no intestinal fortitude….simply,..gutless!.

    I am quite sure this is not the end of that..there is more to come… But in any event, I do wish Mr.Carbon,his crew and his vessel,GOD’S speed,and a safe passage back home.

    All the best to you…..and….
    Peace profound!!
    MANCHAT!!!

  3. Wait A Minute
    October 21, 2010

    @TANTAN: You are sooo true in what you said about this man bashing Skerrit some 2-3 years ago when he had just returned. I heard the man myself several times. He had ALL sorts of things to say about the supremo. ‘FROM LITTLE BOY TO CORRUPT’. its amazing what 2 years, an ambassadorship (with the name “Excellency”-if you please!!!) and ALBA Director after it could so drastically change a man!!! NOW HERE IS OPPORTUNISM AT IT’S BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Even his wife, now is joing in on the fun. I understand she is up for the next press secretary position (Sorry Shawn, all the blows you took from her on the heng during the austerity has come to nought because she is now having the last laugh!!)

    WELL, WELL, WELL, HOW QUICKLY CAN THINGS CHANGE!!!!!!

  4. Embarrassed
    October 21, 2010

    Aaron, did you or did you not first told Carbon that you were not able to help because it was not a legal matter? after the public outcry, Did you or did you not tell Carbon to come down to Dominica so that you guys could help him? Did you or did you not tell him that the government would offer loan through the aid bank? SO how comes you talking about the media, uwp and all. Come on, you guys are using Carbon as a fool. Did you guys not tell him that one of the conditions for assistance was to read an apology letter through the media? Come on, we know the story… Stop the lying and deceitful practices?

    Yes, Carbon ask for help, and yes after refusing to help, you agreed but with this apology letter as a condition.

  5. BROKEN
    October 21, 2010

    @joker but how would you know what was said on angelo’s show? were YOU listening by any chance?that is enough for me. think of what you supporters write before you continue to make fool of yourselves and make people think all of us who live on this island are FOOLS.

  6. Poule Coutouni
    October 21, 2010

    SHAME ON YOU ATTLEE AARON. YOU ARE REALLY A DECORATED BROOMSTICK!

  7. Troubled Ras B
    October 21, 2010

    It is quite disappointing when Dr Aaron in his attempt to inform us of his great diplomatic experience stoops as low as being the ‘political general secretary’ – “MOUTH PIECE” – of the Labour party’. His statement on the Mr Carbon’s boat issue was highly political and is not quite what is expected of a diplomat. May I warn Dr. Aaron that in his efforts to try to enlarge himself, he must be mindful that we are listening and can discern the objective(s) of his utterances. His statements on the issues should be retracted if only because of it’s lack of diplomacy and political overtones. As a Dominican, he makes me ashame.

    I will, however, submit that there are many aspects of the story which does not make sense. (a) Why has it taken so long -five months? (b) How does one account for Mr.Carbon’s sudden change of heart? (c) Should Mr. Carbon be subjected to some form of punishment through the court system? This would have several benefits, among which it would prevent a recurrence of such utterances, if they are incorrect and it would ensure that individuals, in the future, would be more restrained in using the media to knowingly divulge statements designed solely to mislead.

    We must be always mindful that we are but a microcosm in this world and our utterances and Titles will reflect either brilliantly or poorly on our country. Dr Aaron must now do the ethical thing and resign from his post or be sacked from his position because he is a poor reflection of the ambassador culture to Dominica. I hope that if he does not leave voluntarily, then Mr Skerritt needs to get active and push him out of office or else, it will be obvious that his is a political appointment and he will be forced out of office once this Government changes. These are not acceptable utterances coming from an ambassador.

  8. One Love
    October 21, 2010

    @METTE VEYEE:

    METE VEYEE you are right to say “his name is edison liar james, what else do u guys expect from him?

    REMEMBER ARON WAS HIS NUMBER ONE STUDENT AND AS YOU CAN SEE HE LEARNED WELL

  9. Paid to protect
    October 20, 2010

    What’s common with those names?

    Augustino Pinochet
    Eric Gary
    Adolf Hitler
    Benito Mussolini
    Shah of Iran
    Hugo Banza Suarez
    Augustino Somoza
    General Branco
    Idi Amin
    Park Chung Hee
    Thai Shwe
    Rios Montt
    Papa Doc
    Baby Doc
    Rafael Trujillo
    P.W. Botha
    Fulgencio Batista
    Augustino Pinochet
    Shah of Iran
    Hugo Banza Suarez
    Idi Amin
    Thai Shwe

    Those men ‘intellectuals’ all DICTATORS in the company of well paid cronies protecting them in their Corrupt practices and Bad Governance. The poor ordinary people are ridiculed, on their knees, begging for crumbs and favours

  10. POPE
    October 20, 2010

    @Is that so?:

    “Wasting your prescious time” Is uwp the only party in Dominica?
    Skerrite and his Funny Labour Party days are numbered.

  11. I listen and read
    October 20, 2010

    Mr.Ambassador, it’s the blind leading Dominica you meant to say right? lol!LMAO! You aere already half (1/2) blind your self.

  12. Anonymous
    October 20, 2010

    @da:

    Why?, do you think they should just say just what you think they should say.
    I guess what you really want is an opposition that tows the line, keeep quiet, say nothing just let skerrit fill his pocket just as long as you can catch a cromb from his table.
    One day you will be glad that after the bad mouth they received they stood strong and protected you.

  13. TANTAN
    October 20, 2010

    Allow me to refer to Dr Aaron as Artheley. Why it is that Arthley is not telling us why Carbon and crew was held for 5 months. Why did Carbon find it necessary to come out and make those statements on the radio. Had the government of Dominica been doing it’s job maybe just maybe Carbon and crew would not have to express dissatisfaction. In fact Arthley I find it very appalling that you did not take it upon yourself to assist Carbon. If I recall you guys grew up together and played for the same club – Santos; You guys swam in the ocean right there in Lagoon together and yet you did not make it your personal duty to help a lagoon man.

    Arthley you are correct when you said that you have observed politics in Dominica. I personally heard Arthley Aaron Bas the Skerrit administration ; referred to Skerrit as a corrupt little boy. Skerrit and his bandineros decided that Arthley was too talented and can be too influential to allow him mouth off against KING SKERRO. So what they did – They made Arthley chief of Alba. So here is Arthley talking about his diplomatic experience or the lack thereof.

    As an aside – “ His excellency Emmanuel Nanthan?’ – What’s up with that. Everything related to this administration is bogus.

  14. A Voice
    October 20, 2010

    The only shock I have is that this guy’s statement is more about the UWP than clearing the air on his role in that whole saga from the beginning to present…

    Man, you never see smoke without fire…..

  15. wonderfull
    October 20, 2010

    I is amazing that public officials can be so blatantly political. This is in your face danger. According to Mr. Aaron statements you must make sure that you support the labour party and make sure they know that you are a supporter to get help from his DLP government. How can Aaron ever perform his duties as Ambassador to the Dominican people when he is standing for the labour party and not dominicans on a whole.
    Tell me now who is deviding the island …. ????? tell me
    this man should be fired
    Skerrit is not the almighty………

  16. reference
    October 20, 2010
  17. da
    October 20, 2010

    if they where held hostage , how comes he had the time to be on the mad show???? the uwp leaders don’t know how to investigate nor reseach any matter they are like school children ,they hear they say i think we shoud elect the freedom party leader as oppos: leader or maybe parra ,becuase we need one

  18. Open Mind in Possie
    October 20, 2010

    Dr. Aaron , hahahah

    I have read with interest pieces that you have published in the local newspapers in the past on the political landscape of Dominica. Some of it was captivating. I must say now that, if this is your writing , you have regressed considerably.

    Never have i read such rubbish from such an eloquent academic in my life.

    You have said much without saying anything. Anything more than the usual rhetoric , cry baby routine that comes from the Skerrit sycophants out there.
    You have lost all respect from me this time.

    Sad as i looked upon you as one of the shining examples of excellence coming from lagoon. Yes Mr. Aaron, Mr. Alan did not raise you to be like this.

    I am appalled. You have failed as ambassador, been patient , waited long enough to ensure that you have broken one of the hardest working men from your community? waited to ensure that your government proved that Dominican citizens were not been held hostage even though they were languishing in a port in a foreign land without the resource to get back home ?

    You quote Mamo, I will quote Mike, “magwe` ca Mr. Aaron.

    I pay my taxes like most Dominicans do. It is not your money, or Skerrit’s money that would have been used to help the Ruby Elaine and crew .. it would have been our tax dollars. Just like the Government and People of Chile spared no dime to ensure that the miners of Chile were rescued , so would we not have minded if a million or two had been spent to bring home the Ruby Elaine…

    But i guess you and your government do not see it like that .. you are in charge and all must bow to you … Woe be unto those who have a differing point of view. More anguish for them if they need your assistance.

    Like Carbon, you guys make me ashamed to be Dominican… but i live in hope. ONE GOOD DAY MY PRIDE IN THIS NATION WILL BE RESTORED … ONE DAY THE PRIMA DONNA AND HIS SYCOPHANTS WILL FACE THEIR DAY OF RECKONING !

  19. Is that so?
    October 20, 2010

    It would seem now that all the DLP, Skerrit and by extension Dominica HATERS and UWP blind followers and apologists would believe ANYTHING as long as they feel that it could lead to the fall of the Labour Party. But it is clear that, as Jimmy Cliff say: THE HARDER THEY COME; THE HARDER THEY FALL. These guys arecertainly not getting back in power in DA anytime soon, doesn’t matter all the controversies and trouble they may try to stur up in this country.

    So all you fools making those idiotic comments here on these bunch of loosers; YOU ARE ONLY WASTING YOUR PRECIOUS TIME!!!!!

  20. Pawol Ah Boosh
    October 20, 2010

    @FIRE BREATHING DRAGON:

    Again wishing it true does not make it so.

    There are fees for docking at the port, repairing the vessel….are there not?

    Sometimes eh boy…sometimes.

  21. Anonymous
    October 20, 2010

    @boldface lie:

    Put down the sausage and think a bit….so called friend of Carbon.

    Wishing the story does not make it true, even if you really want it to be so.

    Why would a person held hostage have the ability to use the phone to call the media?

    Does that make sense to you?

    You prefer the man lie than apologize and move on….with friends like you, Mister doh need enemies.

    The statement by the ambassador says that “The UWP is in a state of all out war against Dominica for electing the DLP back to office. They seem to have sworn that if they cannot win power, they will trash Dominica.”

    This is prescient!

  22. Inexperience please help me understand
    October 20, 2010

    I am among many Dominicans who listen to Matt in the morning, when Mr Carbon and his sister made statements in stack contrast to his prepared and possible edited statement of apology to every government officer who might have taken issue with what he said. I must say, what made me more disappointed during his phone interview is the part where he mentioned how he feel about being a Dominican. This man was speaking while in Venezuela, and being that he made such strong open statements to get the Dominica government to save face with a defensive statement leaves much to be desired of your diplomatic experience Mr. Aaron. In fact I beg to differ with how you handle this situation, especially after you spoke with reporter Jnobaptise about coming back to you to have his information edited. I would understand a statement such that the diplomatic channels were clogged at the time of the incident to allow a speedy resolution of this situation coupled with the captain and crew desparation to meet there commitement of cargo delivery; one thing worked against you and that is technology aka (cell phones is everywhere like dog shit), and they reached out to people in Dominica and one thing lead to another. Mr. Aaron that sound like a more probable senario, and I know you might have done your best and given the highly charged political environment it does not allow for anyone to admit making either mistakes or moving too slow. Thanks for your attempt, but the truth if different from what you said can tarnish your spotless reputation.

  23. FIRE BREATHING DRAGON
    October 20, 2010

    Well is now I mad! I mad as ever! You people think because you go to school a little more than the rest of us, you educated and we dotish. Let me ask a few educated questions:-

    1) Why did it take five months to give the help?
    2) What about the rest of the crew?
    3) Where is the vessel?
    4) What delayed the ‘release’ if they were always free?
    5) Where are the family members of the other crew members and why have we not heard from them?
    6) How did the publicity hurt Mr. Carbon’s chances with the private sector?
    7) Which financial institution was he negotiating with in Venezuela?

    8) Patience is a virtue? Patience for what? Negotiating?
    9) Why were you in contact with the ambassador if they were not hostages? Or held against their will?
    10) Why did you have to tap into all your ‘diplomatic’ experience? A simple matter of port fees needs no diplomatic experience.
    11) Why did you take the ‘long view’ and the ‘high road’ when these people have been stranded for months?
    12)Where were you Mr. Diplomat for five months?

    By the way, I heard Mr. Carbon and his sister on QFM in their telephone conversation. This supposed letter has no signature. At this point, I will take the voice over the paper. The truth will reveal.

  24. boldface lie
    October 20, 2010

    as a friend of carbon , I know he contacted Aaron personally about financial assistance from the government and aaron said there was nothing they could do about the situation. it is all lies the DLP are telling and using one lie to cover up another but we all know the truth aaron. How do you sleep at night with a conscience so heavy or do you even have one?

  25. joker
    October 20, 2010

    And the fool angelo had that like a hot topic on his show.Intrestingly domnincans are not listening to those clowns.

  26. METTE VEYEE
    October 20, 2010

    his name is edison liar james, what else do u guys expect from him?

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