Dominica News Online (DNO) has been reliably informed that Roseau South MP, Joshua Francis is seriously considering calling it quits in the political affairs of the country.
The United Workers Party (UWP) member is embroiled in a court matter and was kicked out of his position as Deputy Leader of the party recently.
DNO was also reliably informed that he has decided to take time out to focus on his law practice, his family and to clear his name.
Information is that Francis and hierarchy of the UWP are not on the best terms and this may be another reason for his decision to call it a day.
In recent months there have been concerns about Francis’ visibility in the constituency with many people saying this further substantiate that he will be leaving the political arena.
In addition to that, Francis has missed two consecutive seating of Parliament and DNO was informed that he did not give an excuse to the Speaker, Alix Boyd- Knights.
But the UWP has remained mum on the matter.
DNO contacted political leader of the UWP, Lennox Linton, on Wednesday, however, he said he has nothing to say at this time.
Francis first appeared on the political scene in August 2013, when he signaled his intention to unseat Ambrose George, a Dominica Labour Party (DLP) heavy weight.
At that time, it sounded like an impossible feat since George was MP for the constituency since February 2000 and was part of the upper echelon of the ruling Dominica Labour Party (DLP), serving as deputy leader. He also held many ministerial portfolios including minister for finance, agriculture, enterprise development and public works and infrastructural development, among others. He has also acted as prime minister in the Roosevelt Skerrit Administration on several occasions.
George himself expressed great confidence of a fourth “big” win in the December 8, 2014, general election.
On November 27, 2013, Francis officially declared his candidacy for the UWP, describing himself as “a man of the people.”
In the general election, Francis triumphed over George in probably the biggest upset of the polls, gathering a total of 2,185 votes. George received 1,948.
In February 2015, Francis signaled his intention to run for the position of Deputy Leader of the UWP after Claudius Sanford, who held the post at that time, did not make himself available to contest at the party’s delegate’s conference.
The conference was held on March 1, 2015 and Francis was elected Deputy Leader, while Linton was elected leader.
By July 2015, there were talks of disunity in the UWP when members walked out of parliament during the 2015-2016 budget debate but Francis stayed. He subsequently dismissed the talks of disunity.
Soon after that rumors began circulating that Francis was interested in the top post of political leader of the UWP, but he dismissed them saying he was not keen on challenging Linton for the job. However, he did state that if it the voice of the people in the future, he would accept it.
But the rumors persisted and it was said a leadership struggle was emerging between Francis and Linton.
At a delegate’s conference of the UWP held on January 10, 2016 Linton stated that there was no leadership struggle since the party had a duly elected leader.
Soon after that Francis became embroiled in controversy and on April 14, 2016, it was announced a vote of no confidence would be tabled against him at a delegates’ conference to be held in Mahaut on April 24. It was said all attempts by the party to meet Francis had failed.
During the conference, Francis walked out and he was booted out as Deputy Leader.
I find Joshua Francis take real long to make that decision. He should not have caused all that embarassment to the UWP and himself from the beginning of his allegations. All he had to do was step aside as deputy leader and concentrate on proving his innocence and his family. I spoke to him about that during all the melee. He felt it was an evil plot against him by the uWP leadership. Today he has finally come back to reality. Better late than never. Good decision concentrate on your profession and your family. I hope and pray that you are innocent of the allegations against you and your good name will be cleared.
Josh, I know you will rise way above this! Just “give time time”. As I read the comments I was driven to tears. My people are brutal! But Josh give time time!
Bro God and nobody else got your back!
Roseau south would be very foolish to vote for a candidate from UWP
I could understand if is a general election but what sense does it make to vote for someone who cannot help you
I suggest that people vote labour and get all the villages need
And maybe next Electon vote UWP
I will vote UWP, big time. We are not interested in this kind of help this corrupt labour party gives.
UWP is a credible Political Party..
When one door closes another one opens. Whatever you decide for yourself is your prerogative. It occurs all the time that some politicians decide to bow out from politics to take a break and spend some time with their family and to think of their future.
Joshua Francis you have done well. You are a lawyer. Therefore, you have a career and a future one. Consider, whatever will be, will be – Que Sera, Sera.
Everyone deserves a second chance and many chances. I wish you well.
Joshua Francis remember you are man who only have one life to live and you have to accomplish your purpose in life, organize some public meetings within your constituency, tell them the truth and hang on in there, for what god has put together let no man put a sunder.
you have a future before you when you go to the courts you are going to be victorious over the malice and mischief, joshua you gone a reign!!! time will tell.
Joshua, take care of your family. If water is constantly being poured on the little light that is left in you, go to dry grounds. The political arena is the right place for you but i do not know if Dominica understands you. Keep up the good work and be proud that you are not being manipulative, deceitful, cunning, unfair, unreasonable, and power hungry! You are human! You who have no sin cast the first stone! Stand to your feet Joshua and Stand again and again until you get it right! This is what we need here. The cap may fit many people but may the best fit wear it!
Dominicans must not ignore the lesson in this dilemma you know..This shows that some of the most trusted and revered men are simply just MEN and fall like everyone else.
It shows that appearances are really deceiving…It shows that words alone does not make a man but we must continue to look towards his actions.
Why do Dominicans continue to make this a rift between Joshua and Lennox? People need to get objective..
Joshua has his own personal life and personal challenges..Let the man deal with his business..Leave Lennox and UWP out of it for once please..
I guess things were well planned for a by election just before the world creole festival, where Skerrit can bring down tons of diaspora voters
I do hope UWP can give us a very good candidate that can help us keep the seat. As a resident of Roseau South I suggest one of the following three :a former nurse initial JF, a former legal mind and broadcaster, initial OL, and another broadcaster and telecommunicationis , FF
u not making any sense sicky lapsed
Franco! you are a Lawyer by profession so you are not without bread. The Kainago will have you at the drop of a hat. Prayers answered. This certain lady was once UWP,SHE REALISED there was not a future, she cross over to Labor and now hooray she is the new UN EMBASSIDOR. Where the bread is, thats where we go. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. There was an angel named Gabriel that is skerrit second name.
You are everything that is wrong with people nowadays.
Sikiri has Linton exactly where he wants him. The UWP wants to maintain the seat. They however do not want to be seen in association with Sikiri, at least in public. They are now running scared, not knowing what was happening in the mind of the embattled Roseau south MP. The truth is. Sikiri is not going anywhere. He is simply heaping coals of fire on the UWP. He worked too hard for the seat and to simply give it up within two short years over a matter he is stoutly defending is very painful for him. But he must teach the UWP a lesson. No wonder does not have anything to say at this time. Sikiri is just teasing the public to see what funeral is in store for him
….and you think this is a game…….playing on the vulnerable of people who need true leadership and representation. Our young girls are being abused, parents poor being compromised and your concern is not Dominica but UWP , a credible political party waiting to rescue Dominica from this corrupt Labour government.
Farewell my one time brother, you will not be missed. You always felt you were better than Mr. Linton, that was your downfall.
Lol. But isn’t he in most respects anyway?
@Doc. Love August 3, 2016
He was better and still is better–God has prepared a better place for him –just wait and watch; and keep in mind that I told you so.
No one of us on this earth better than each other. But to compare them politically he has the comparative advantage by far
Why compare. Hon Linton has years of experience and has done tings locally, regonaly and intrnatinally. Hon Francis is young and new on the scene with years ahead of him. Stop comparing the two and the possess own individual qualities that Dominica needs that we cannot fins in Skerrit and his inept government.
give peace a chance and let us not kill or denigrate two quality Dominicans, the younger one must listen , learn and be patient, the older one is on way out. Question is the younger one showing and demonstrating patience, leadership and maturity?
It’s one thing to feel; and another to know. No questions: we all know that Josh is better!!
The truth is Lincton is not a peoples person, he may have the material but not the personality, a clear mind U W P should have realized what asset they had in Sikiri, but when egoism is stronger than true purpose things like that happen too bad it gona take them another 50 years to get into power
Very good comment..Joshuas biggest problem is his ego…He needs to humble himself and to stay far away from some friends!
the lesson being learnt here is…when you dig one pit always dig two,,life is fully balanced, could you imagine if it was only the labour party official that was in this hotseat of the alleged under aged child molestation,this screwd faced uwpites would be having a field day, but god is not a policeman he shows every time that he is in charge and he exposes anyone who goes against his will,i am really delighted to witness the works of god in dominica,what more demonstrations dose Dominicans want to prove that our god is real and alive judging humanity…halleluyah some body give me an amen
@forreal August 3, 2016 —\”halleluyah some body give me an amen\”
The word is \”hallelujah\”, but you hace got my Amen.
Also we have to learn reverence for God in speaking about Him, see that the G in God is in the upper case and so should be the same for every pronoun pertaining to Him; the same goes for Christ Jesus
The UWP stood on principle and from day one ensured that JF resigned from the position he holds in the UWP. He fought it and it went to vote and he had to excused himself, a call that was asked of him from Day one. So Mr Know it all, Forreal, you are outdated in your summation and really you write just to be heard. UWP is a party of dignity, rules and operate within the law and respects it especially where the rights of the child is concerned. That principle is well lead by its leader Hon Linton.
Are you able to say the same for Skerrit and his corrupt Labour government. The question is where do you stand as far as respect for government and the practice of good governance within this inept labour party government. Please be reminded of the bin and fertiliser bobols, did you asked the PM, Finance Minister to resign or was he hailed as this so called doctored supreme leader.?
UWP will stand tall, the DLP has a lot to learn to come close to the integrity that the UWP holds.
I like this comment..You just forgot to mention about Joshuas ego…It’s too inflated, and he needs to work on it!!!
God going and send more water just for that stupid comment…
the more I think and examining this situation…..the same question enveloped my ,id over and over again. Joshua examining your conscience and answer those questions honesty from your heart because history will not forgive you and what we do aas parents will follow our children. Sir, did you purposely find yourself in this situatioon just to destroy the UWP? We know that skerrit and his cabal were afyer you to cross the floor….were this a plan prepared by skerrit and his cabal for you to help them to destroy the UWP? Remember God is not asleep, what we do not know he knows. I leave it up to your conscience Joshua Francis, you will not be able to hide it no matter what you try or what you get for doing dirty work. Time will tell.
toilet u talking
What took you so long?
leve dem
He who is without Sin cast the first Stone. Everything is upside Down, Everything is inside out, and if i did`nt know better, i would think i am living in Dominica.
https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_lol.gifhttps://dominicanewsonline.com/news/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_lol.gif
I will give my reasons later but you are not going anywhere. You are too good and your country cannot afford to lose you. You fell off your horse, what you do is, remount and learn to ride better NEWS ONLINE TEND TO put articles in such a way that the people fight against one another. Some have cross over and did very well for themselves, you are not going to be the first, and you won’t be the last. Did you listen to uwp comments on the budget, all flour gossips. Give us another 6 months.
The Believer August 3, 2016
He did not say he was going anywhere, he said he was quitting from the political scene –that is a good decision to me. God has a better mission for him away from politics
What exactly do you believe in? Are you out there scouting for recruits at any costs to join Skerrit cabal?
Are you questioning Skerrit`s leadership and reputation that most may think questionable and not fit or doctored enough to be PM? To cross under desperate or false pretences hurts the person more with damage to image and reputation.
Joshua I am in agreement with you concentrate on your family, you were treated like trash by because again anyone who seems like a suitable replacement he denigrates them, it was Ronnie now its you. It will prove now you won that sit on your own. I will not vote labor because they are have destroyed every fabric of Dominica society and economy but I cannot support UWP under this present leadership. Lennox Not ready for leadership. My Opinion
I cannot tick….but I agree
Boy you really sounding like Trump. Haha. I hope you are not looking like him too.
The uncertainity has gone on long enough. The people of Roseau South needs representation. If true the decision is welcome. If he had missed another sitting of the House without a valid reason he would be out anyway and a byelecttion would be forced and I doubt he would seek to run again.
The UWP was so concerned of the DLP business they forgot to mind their own.
Like the St. Lucian Comedian who minds the business of others while there is chaos all around her. The most sensible person on the current UWP roaster in parliament. Big loss for the UWP and Dominica Politics.
I believed he could have been a very good politician with a bright future in politics. Too bad.
Another by-election and I predict a DLP victory.
Dominicans gave UWP a chance and they squandered it so The Roseau South Constituency will not
Make the same mistake again and will give the seat back to the DLP.
I am a Labourite, however I admired Sikiwi’s style of politics. He sound sincere. I particularly admired his performance after Erika. When his leader got fed up after a month, Sikiri kept on working and pacifying those who had not yet gotten paid for their money. I dont know the circumstances or your involvement in the said case. however I want to wish you well. God will decide your fate . If you are innocent then have nothing to fear. You are in my prayers sir. I really admired your style of politics.
@thoughtful August 3, 2016 \”God will decide your fate\”
God has already decided his fate; that fate is part of his decision to leave politics. Joshua spoke his hope, which God gave to him–His plan for his Life; and Hope doesn\’t disappoint
That was a great read DNO. Kudos to the writer(s) of this article….anyways Joshua I need my vote back….you alone I really liked eno in this whole political arena…..
Francis, honestly didn’t understand his role, he got too carried away wanting to outshine
The Leader, a matured minded person would simple chill and wait his turn which would be Soon, but the bro, got overwhelmed that caused his downfall, he has only himself to blame
But in life things happen, he won’t be the last to fall into the cracks of political excitement.
Just a lack of not being matured as a Professional!!
That’s my point, well said Ave…….well said
Look after yourself and your family.
Edison can pass UWP onto his son after Linton finish decalay what is left of it.
A party founded because of Mamo will die for the same reason Mamo party die. It has no meaning any more.
Rubbish, rubish talk
Well Dalit, you would know, Skerrit, Tony, Krazy as can be and all the other crazy ones decalay Labour after Rosie and Pierro passed under their immature hands. Labour has lost all credibility and honour. It is a shame and disgrace
DNO and Dominicans too swaway seviette, how comes nobody not saying about what government doing about Vince Henderson since Laureen Bannnis has been appointed the new UN embassador? is that a secret to dominicans? because just sunday night there was a big farewell party in St. thomas for her, but i not hearing nothing about it in Dominica
What…????????.. You serious, Loreen Bannis Ambassador to where , …the UN?
Is this government serious……noooooooo, please tell me this is joke.
LB, to the UN….Jesus wept!
While I am sad and disappointed at this breaking news, I cant fault the man. He had a very bright career and there was no doubt that some time in the not too distant future he would become PM. He had (and still has) all the goods – bright, handsome, professional and lettered’ and of course he is part Kalinago and black.- What a shame to end such an early promising career.
Besides he can always make a come back if it is in the cards for him. Josh at the need of the day, your family only matters—for their are no permanent friends in politics- only permanent interests.
Good luck my brother
In politics, one has to be patient, wait your turn. JF is still a young man with many years ahead to be prepared for high office. He has to earn it and not handed down to him like a Will from a father. These accolades go into people head and become patient as some people in public tell them go for it. JF is a brilliant man, wait, understudy Linton who has waited for years, so why is it some of our people are so impatient.
Look at Skerrit, came in young, lack experience, exposure and disrespected our constitution and behaved like a little boy looking for his underpants. No one should be PM in Dominica again under the age of 40 or 50 years old. What is the rush, Mamo waited and performed well, she earned experienced and her time came.
It is understandable that Hon Francis should ruminate the gravity of his situation. Should he win his case in court, he would still lose the cachet of probity that once glittered his political path. On the other hand, should he lose in court, his professional career Is ruined.
The unfolding scene presages the political baptism of Hon Francine Baron at the font of the Roseau South constituency and and the banishment of Ambrose George from further political forays on behalf of the DLP. This looks like another set back for the UWP as it continues the downward spiral of self destruction.
Anything else Winston?
Sensible decision on his part ,at this time.
Look Bowdel papa.
If Joseph Isaac was the leader of the UWP then i would cross over from Labour. Very intelligent gentleman.
One do not join a party because of one person or an individual person because the party has many individuals working together as one, you either like the messages the party is putting forward or not. I have listened to the men and women of the Opposition and I must say they have some very good ideas which would help in the development of the Island, Dr. Fountain is a very educated person and he talk very clearly so we can understand, but the person in Government, So let us all try to work the betterment of Dominica and the Dominican people we need to move on .I’m not a UWP supporters but they seem to care about the people.
Trying to quiiyonnaay / fool another one into believing he is the man that Must replace Lennox immediately I see. Joe is not that gullible so stay your behind with labor?
Always Assertive!?
You have no philosophy or ideology other than you are a Skerrit beggar!!!
always vile
Very interesting but not entirely unexpected. Were he to resign as a member of Parliament, this would trigger a by-election for Roseau south, of course. Naturally, this is entirely mr. Francis’ decision and I only hope that he has not been persuaded by incentives from certain quarters to take this course of action.
Uwp kicking the man out but they want it to look like he is leaving so the supporters won’t be mad
You are an accomplished idiot who can neither read nor understand.
He shone so brightly. The promise was so exciting, portending good things. Alas, the star burnt out so soon.
@Not a herd follower August 3, 2016
And who said he is burnt out. He was prepared for much better that politics–that \’s all
Linton and the IMF man must be a happy fellas right now.
#OLD
Joshua threw down the walls of Jericho (Ambrose) and it fell on him