Parliamentarians have been told that they now have fourteen days for nomination before the election of a new head of state.
That’s because, according to Speaker of the House of Assembly Alix Boyd – Knights, there is no agreement between Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and Opposition Leader Hector John on a joint nominee for President.
The government presented its new nominee, Jennifer Wallace Lafond, for president after Alix Boyd-Knights withdrew her nomination because of, according to Skerrit, fear for the safety of her family.
John has indicated in the media that the United Workers Party would support the new government nominee if she met certain Constitutional requirements and more information is given.
“If the prime minister is unable to agree with the leader of the opposition as to their joint nomination of a candidate for election as President, he shall notify the Speaker to that effect and the speaker shall inform the house accordingly…” Boyd- Knights told a special sitting of parliament.
She said she received a letter from the Prime Minister dated today September 12, 2013 stating, “In accordance to section 19:3 of the constitution, and further to the withdrawal of the interest of the first nominee, I hereby inform you that the Leader of the Opposition and I have been unable to agree on a joint nominee of a candidate for election as president”
She explained that the leader of the Opposition, the prime minister and any three members of the house can come up with their own nominations.
The term of current president, Eluid Williams, ends in October.
tOOMATOE TOMAT y u asking where in de constitution saying for de leader of de opposition to interview de president nominee. I sure you didnt ask that same question when Skerrit decide to flush that same constitution down the toilet and hide de fact that he is a french man. Is only when it suits all u them irresponsible laborites that all u no it have a constitution.
Such a statement is too unfair. It was UWP who made the fuss about this President and nominee.
Any new president must join the voices of those calling for constitutional changes/ amendments (albeit behind the scenes) since they will be the ones who eventually signs the bill.
Governments have come and gone but none have had the “testicular” fortitude to implement recommendations for constitutional amendments. Hence, we seem to be constantly at a crossroad whenever there are constitutional requirements involved in any decision making process.
I am no constitutional expert or political science PHD but by now can deduce that our constitution as written has served its purpose and its time for an in-depth review and changes made where necessary/ recommended. Most importantly, we need to address the following areas;
1. Foreign citizenship (Sale of passports). It is more difficult to change or manipulate if the requirements are enshrined in the constitution.
2. Qualifications for those running for political office (Dual citizenship). While I support the actions of the UWP in taking the RS et Al matter to court because it is against current constitutional requirements I am of the humble opinion that in this modern day and age it should not matter if a “born” dominican- Born within the territorial boundary of the Commonwealth of Dominica- holds additional citizenship(s). If a policy of law is outdated them we should by all means change it.
3. Presidential nominee qualification and the clarification of or removal of the word “consultation” in such an important document.
Having said that, I look forward for a declaration from LL and the UWP on their position for such an important aspect of governance as soon as they take office. “Change Must Come” and with that comes accountability to “We The People”.
Assertive, NOT Agressive!
Can some one show me where in the Constitution does it says that the Nominee must be interviewed by the Leader of the Opposition in his office before he gives his approval?
What is the big deal if there is nothing to hide. Jeez you people making an issue of everything. Allu want the man to give an approval without having a conversation with the lady? Whats the harm? I myself support her and I think once he speaks to her then he will approve her nomination.
So where is it in the constitution? Show me. When was the last time a proposed Presidential candidate was interviewed in the office of the opposition leader?
Don’t you think if we respected the Office of The President of the Commonwealth of Dominica – the opposition leader would make the effort to see the candidate, that is if it was really necessary instead of it being his way (in his office)that alone is another insult. But of course all of us know it was a smoke screen.
History will not be kind to this Opposition Leader, because he is allowing himself to be lead astray.
This is implied in Section 19.1 of the constitution in a mature and functioning democracy. Although, the act of constitutional consultation does not mean that the parties must agree, if we are to act in accordance with the SPIRIT-not limited to the letter of the constitutional provision, it is expected that in the process of “consultation” as demanded by the constitution, the PM ought to ensure that relevant and sufficient information be shared with/among the consulting parties before reaching an agreement on the suitability of the nominee identified to hold the highest office of the land.
The relevant section speaks of a “suitable candidate for election as President” Ask yourself how can the Leader of the Opposition possibly reach a determination as to the suitability of a candidate without this substantive and meaningful consultation exercise?
Just so you are well informed, please read Sec.19.1: “Whenever the office of President is vacant or the term of office of the President is due to expire within not more than ninety days, the Prime Minister shall consult with the Leader of the Opposition as to their joint nomination of a suitable candidate for election as President.”
The problem here is that the PM had 90 days to act. The PM neglected or failed to do so or was negligent in failing to act in a timely manner. Now, he shamefully attempts to rush his crazy, street behaving nominee and unfairly blaming the opposition for his own failures, incompetence and ineptitude.
Furthermore, in light of what was a “fundamental intervening circumstance” whereby the PM withdrew the candidature of the worse Speaker or she was discarded, this process under Section 19.1 kicks in afresh and the process ought to have started all over. Therefore, the PM cannot say that the Opposition did not agree with his nominee. This is a great lie. Alix knows that. The AG knows that. Labourites know that but they all support their lying, cheating PM.
Inasmuch as we are obliged to be respectful to DNO and its readers, increasingly, the respect that one ought to have for the Presidency, the PM, the Speaker, the Ministers of government and especially our Parl. Rep Mr. Collin McIntyre has ebbed and we are prepared to get these people out of office.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
Would you recommend someone for a job without seeing and assessing their qualifications or experiences- to have an idea about the person – their beliefs, opinions on certain topics etc. We are trying to move into this century and not stay in the dark as we have before. The people of Dominica should want to know and gain a better understanding of the person who will be our representative.
Well they found out that She was an American Citizen so there is a process You dont just say Yes!
It dosen’t matter whom Skerrit nominates the opposition will oppose that’s in their dna to cause division. they haven’t got a nominee but just want to cause confusion
Stuepse!!!! You are an idiot who doesn’t care anything about the country, only your party. Us free thinkers think it our right to question. And for your information to question is not to oppose. It is the way that civilized human beings make informed judgements and decisions.
what happen to mr WILLIAMS????
Wasn’t he taken to Court. How did the Opposition call him? They forget?
They say he was an illegal president just as they say the PM was illegal, calling him a french man although he was born and raised in DA. UWP is hell- bent on creating division, unrest and anything else they can instigate. Mr. Williams doesn’t want to be involved in that type of chaos; he bowed out on his own, so stop asking for him.
Skerri tjust said that Williams was only serving ou tthe remainder of Liverpools term why did he not just put savarin in the first place?He testing the waters to see if we stupid
THE OPPOSITION IS GRASPING AT STRAWS
The opposition will never be satisfied. The are belly aching over nothing. They are deliberately looking for an excuse which is subject to interpretation.
The government has followed the correct procedure. There was no agreement on a nominee and as required the house was convened for the purpose of opening nomination to appoint the president.
Therefore the Parliament was duly convened. The next stage was to open nomination which was done in accordance so what are they the United Workers Party crying about?
They are only trying to reeving there engine but they are not going anywhere.
First of all, we are happy that you have considered it prudent to change your pen name as the use of the name of the US president was a bit disrespectful and distasteful.
My dear, Barack was a constitutional professor and he would tell you that matters relating to the supreme law- the constitution deserve paramount consideration.
The UWP is not “belly aching over nothing”. This is a serious but otherwise simply matter. This is not subject to the interpretation of Skerrit, the AG or the Speaker. The language of the Constitution is clear.
But why are we talking about differences in interpretation? why can’t the PM simply consult with the Leader of Opposition to elect a President? Why do we have to focus on interpretations of the provisions?
The procedure followed by the PM and his cronies is wrong. This cannot be spinned. There was no consultation on the second nominee, therefore there was no agreement or disagreement albeit the opposition indicated that it was mindful in supporting the candidacy of Mrs. Lafond.
Please be informed that the Parliament did not have to be convened on Thursday. The meeting was unconstitutional. It was simply and opportunity for the speaker to vent in parliamentary privilege accusing a private citizen of “attempted murder” in the house, cognizant of the fact that she cannot be sued.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
The Leader of the Opposition did not agree with the nominee
of the Prime Minister.
By strict interpretation, the constitution required that the
Prime Minister inform the Speaker of the House of Assembly. This was done.
The next step was to convene a meeting of the house. This was
done.
Within that period the nominee withdrew her consent based on
the vehement opposition to the nomination by the Leader of the Opposition.
Due to the fact that the house was already convened the
Prime Minister consulted the Leader of the Opposition within the reasonable
available time to seek an agreement with him before the meeting of the house.
The leader of the Opposition did not agree with the nominee,
instead he placed a caveat on the
nominee knowing very well that time was of the essence. This is a very
unpatriotic attempt to derail the country into a constitutional crisis.
That stage of the process cannot be reversed but if the
Leader of the Opposition truly wishes, he has enough time to agree with the
Prime Ministers nominee. There is nothing unconstitutional about that.
Unfortunately, the leader of the Opposition is not interested in preserving the
constitution; he and the United Workers Party are politicking on the back of
the constitution.
Herein lays the underhand and back stabbing of the country
by the United Workers Party.
Dominicans, be wear
of the United Workers Party.
Ba Ob
Ba Bo
From what was said in the House by the Speaker, the letter informing her was received on the 12th and dated the twelfth!!!! So how is it that she arranged an emergency session after having written to the PM to say that she did not want to be nominee? I have heard no mention of a letter from the PM to the Speaker prior to the letter received on the 12th and dated the 12th!!! That was the only letter mentioned by the speaker to my knowledge……..correct me if I am wrong!! So if this is how it all transpired, the PM and his government are attempting yet again to throw everyone into confused argument in order to give an impression that the opposition is simply non cooperative!!!! Yet another way to further divide the people!! Sad………..
Indeed you are correct that the Leader of the Opposition has not yet agreed with the nominee of the Prime Minister. He also did not disagreed In fact, he has indicated that he is mindful to agree but he needs more information. What’s your point?
By strict, ordinary or layman interpretation of the constitution, the PM is expected to consult with the Leader of Opposition. he is required to inform the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the outcome of the genuine, good faith, professional, meaningful, and respectful consultation between the two constitutional offices. The PM has rep4eatedly failed to adhere to the letter and spirit of the constitution and you all write foolishness on DNO to convince yourself of your own ignorance. (forgive us).
For our part, the next step is for the nominee to demand that the PM follow the constitution or she too will be DISCARDED and DISRECPECTED by the people.
The next step is what ought to have been the first step. Provide the opposition with the information requested to undertake meaningful consultation. Bearing in mind that the Opposition is mindful to support the candidature of Mrs. Lafond, there may be no need for the 14 days and election of a President as there will be a joint nominee.
The House has not yet convened with respect to the new nominee. The House convened with respect to the OLD SPEAKER, which was discarded by the people of Dominica.
Herein lays the continuous lies of the DLO administration and its disgraceful supporters, who have no respect for our constitution.
Dominicans, have had it with the DLP. We are not taking it anymore. We are voting these people out now. Change is a must for sure.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
Skeritt did not know time was of the essence?He had 80 days why did he create this time of essence?
THE OPPOSITION IS GRASPING AT STRAWS
The opposition will never be satisfied. The are belly aching over nothing. They are deliberately looking for an excuse which is subject to interpretation.
The government has followed the correct procedure. There was no agreement on a nominee and as required the house was convened for the purpose of opening nomination to appoint the president.
Therefore the Parliament was duly convened. The next stage was to open nomination which was done in accordance so what are they the UWP crying about?
They are only trying to reeving there engine but they are not going anywhere.
Did I hear you right?
THE GOVERNMENT IS GRASPING AT STRAWS
THE GOVERNMENT IS SCARED OF LENNOX AND THE UWP.
Oh I hear you and agree.
Skerrit and his lazy, incompetent ministers are not satisfied that they have done enough damage to our country and disrespected our laws. They continue to enrich themselves at the expense of the country.
The DLP government has repeatedly breached and disrespected our constitution. The have lied in parliament that there was no agreement on a nominee and in fact illegally convened the parliament so that Ma. Knight could vent and abuse her parliamentary privilege to falsely accuse a private citizen of attempted murder.
Having once again succeeded to put the country in yet another constitutional crisis, they are now seeking to blame the Opposition.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
The pm has some serious issues don’t know why he refuses all the Time to follow the Law of the land.there is no smoke without fire all that’s been said about him in the past is starting to surface and Dominicans should go to the poles and say no more Mr Pm no more
Judging by a disclosure made by Mr. John leader of the opposition on the UWP political show on Thursday, Mr. Williams was never part of the DLP plan as far as the Presidency is concerned. He disclosed that the Caribbean Parliamentary Association under the Chairperson of Alix Knights was considering a meeting in Dominica in 2015 at the Convention Centre of the new President’s Palace should it be completed with Alix as President. Therefore, one gets the impression that the selection of Alix as President was planned a long time ago. It is a beautiful thing when man proposes and God disposses.
Allah the president Williams looking so sad
Sir Brian warned Eluid by saying to him as a fried that he was being used; see what happen to him now, Mr Williams from the beginning should have taken Sir Brians advice – he should say to the PM until his nomination and election is done constitutionally he would not accept – but guess what the young man have everybody dancing to is tune and boom se what happen to Eluid a well experienced and qualified retired public officer who knew better but allowed himself to be used. now he bawling who beat you – you crying. tKE YOUR BLOWS. IT IS JUST A SHAME THAT YOU WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE PRESIDENT SURROUNDED IN CONTOVERY AND YOU REALLY DID NOT DESERVE THIS BUT YOU BROUGHT ON YOURSELF
My only question is whats wrong with our Current President Mr Williams is he sick? is he dead? no one can answer but they jumping high and low looking for new president. Last year mr. Williams was the best man in all of Dominica for president one year later everybody is above his head looking for new, what is it this presidency thing a trial and error thing man ? if is so well give me a try too then eh eh…
Here are four suggestions:
Sir Brian Alleyne
Dr. Grell
Janice Armour
Jennifer Wallace Lafond
How come there is no Poll from DNO?
To Jedi……..If I were one of them and wanted to protect my reputation, the only thing which would persuade me to accept a nomination from them would be if I had the intention of going in there and then doing that which I think is right and just at all times, even though they dislike me for it! I certainly would not accept a nomination from them if I thought that they were doing so so as to have me be their puppet on a string!!! Ummmmmmm
We want. We need to have Lennox in Parliament Now. Lennox must be inside, not outside. Get Lennox in parliament immediately whether through a bye- election in Marigot or by the resignation of an opposition senator. However it is done, we want Lennox in NOW.
Once again, Mr. Skerrit and Alix BoydKnight has put us in a constitutional crisis that they have created and then seek to blame the opposition for their mess.
Thee people are wicked, malicious. They have to go with their arrogance. This is the repeat manifestation of the No law, No Constitution declaration.
I nominate Peter Augustine for president! i believe this man can turn the country around. we need a spiritual leader as the head of State. Evangelist Peter Augustine for president i say!
If a landlord says do not keep pets in my house, how can you say okay, I will get rid of the pet cat and get a bulldog instead.
Respectfully
Roseau valley
I nominate pastor BJ
Mr Williams, you are a good man, and you should have known that this Guys never wanted you to be head of state, just look at the process of appointment. They use you as a stop gap to appoint a stooge. Enjoy your retirement in peace.
“DNO” Why are my comments never published.
or published after the article is archived?
Skerrit is behaving like Dominica is his backyard garden. I had a glimpse of Skerrit and Alix Boyd Knight in action in parliament on Thursday and I must conclude that there was divine intervention in discarding Alix Boyd from being the President of Dominica.
The level of stubborness these two demonstrated, it is difficult to understand why either of them would bow to opposition pressure and to withdraw.
From there one would have expected them to lick their wounds and move on, but no, they had to create another crisis.
The sitting of parliament on Thursday was scheduled to nominate Alix Boyd Knight as the Labour Party’s candidate for President, she was discarded, so the process had to start all over again.
Roosevelt Skerrit nominated Jennifer Lafond on Tuesday evening after he faced a rebellion from his cabinet earlier that day, he gave the opposition 20hours to accept his new nomination but within 11 hours he declared that the opposition did not agree with him.
On Wednesday evening the opposition told him in principle Jennifer is o.k. but they need more information to determine that she meet the constitutional requirements. Is that asking for too much? Solid waste is looking for a garbage collector and the applicant must be interviewed by how many people.
Skerrit expects to throw a name at the opposition and to get an immediate approval. This is the Presidency of Dominica not Skerrit’s LYO.
After all the confusion of getting Eliud Williams elected as President for one year, Skerrit has dumped him as a garbage bag and feels no obligation to explain to citizens why Eliud Williams was not considered.
Those who ask for an Opposition candidate do not understand the dynamics of what is happening in Dominica. Which one of you would allow your name to be presented as a UWP candidate for president knowing fully well that in this 18 to 3 Parliament your only chance is to be ridiculed and become a toy of Skerrit’s playmates?
The appointment of Jennifer Lafond must be done properly, within the law and constitution of the Commonwealth OF Dominica.
Jennifer Lafond must it insist that it is done beyond board. Skerrit had 90 days to get it done properly and he has waited till the 11th hour.
The opposition should insist that the process is done properly and Jennifer, my Love, don’t get involved in any Skerrit RORO and incompetence and arrogance. The example of Eluid Williams is still fresh for your guidance.
Skerrit be a man, Alix Boyd Knight was discarded, put it in your pipe, smoke it and move on.
THE INFERIORITY COMPLEX OF THE UNITED WORKERS PARTY
The United Workers Party suffers from a serious bout inferiority complex and a fear of being unimportant having been pitch forked into government after less than seven of existence for less than a full term. Their freak accomplishment and rapid demise is very unnerving to them. They are still stunned by what is seen as a 2 to 19 defeat. Officially, it is a 3 to 18 defeat.
They feel very inferior as a party and to make up for that inferiority, they seek to maximize their importance by falsely pretending to defend the constitution. The fact that the constitution provides that the Prime Minister must consult with the leader of the opposition for key functionaries in the state they move at great lengths to politically publish their role in these appointment.
Let us remember that after their humiliating defeat in the December 18th 2009 general elections, they boycotted the Parliament and refused to submit a name to the President for the appointment of the leader of the opposition. Their sole intention was unpatriotically to create a constitutional crisis but today they are hypocritically and for ulterior motives claiming to be the vanguards of the constitution. This is a shameful display “statesmanship”.
After their defeats in the 2000 and 2005 elections when they won 9 and 8 seats respectively, consultation with the leaders of the opposition by a mere telephone call was satisfactory to them. At those times they taught the government was weak on performance and they had issues to debate. From 2005 when the youthful dynamic 33 year incumbent Prime Minster with a clear vision for the future with innovative policies regained the government in a blaze of glory and genuine stardom (I was there I felt the shivers and the exuberance of the masses) the United Workers Party grew envious and downright dirty.
To be continued
Ba Ob
You know, I do not think this rubbish of yours deserves an intelligent reaction.
respectfully
Roseau Valley
To little attention is given to the disdainful manner in which Euilude was or is treated. Many of us would like to remind Euilude that when you sleep with dogs; some dogs you get fleas but Euilude did not only get fleas he also got the dog rash and that is so unfair. After accepting the fleas he shouldn’t have been forced to accept the rash or the ” scratch scratch”
Nevertheless one thing that comes out of this dog and fleas and rash phenomenon is that you dare to speak the truth in Dominica and the current band of criminals in government will take you to their bone yard. Euilude either didn’t know that or he thought that his tributaries are to much of an integral part of the polluted stream.
How could one seriously speak of disrespect to Eluid when he started the disrespect of the constitution in the same way that Ms. Lafond may be doing now. We cannot feel sorry for people who fail to stand up to Skerrit with the people when they cry for respect for our constitution. Eluid is being treated as he deserves. Had he stood up when he had to and demanded that the constitution adhered to when he was being elected, one could feel sorry for him but there is no room for that now. Sorry!
I like your analogy of the dog and fleas. Eluid got fleas because he associated and lay in bed with dogs in betrayal of our constitution. This is not unfair. he accepted the fleas even when Dominicans and especially the UWP warned him against so doing. Eluid deserves what comes to him today and what will come in November when the Court of Appeal meets on his case.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
I nominate Sir Brian Alleyne
That is reasonable. Great choice. But let’s not jump the gun. We may well agree with the nominee of the PM after meaningful, practical, productive, good faith and mandatory consultation.
Respectfully
Roseau valley
I second that.
MR. WILLIAMS I realy don’t no what to say all I can say your a good person
Since Skerritt will lose the up-coming election to remain Prime Minister; why not make him “President”?
Mr. Williams looks pitifully sad in this picture..
It has been very difficult for me to understand why Dominicans still believe that Skerrit is the kind of leader Dominica deserves. Skerrit has no interest in telling the truth whether it is in a radio interview which he seldom has or in the Parliament. Dominicans heard Mr. Linton and Mr. John on separate radio interviews and informed the nation that the UWP will support the nominee provided she meets the qualifying criteria as outlined in the Constitution. Today we heard Skerrit in Parliament bellowing that he and the leader of the opposition did not agree on the nomination of Mrs. Lafond. What a blatant lie. The man from the East once said, “they live by deception, they rule by deception and their end will come by deception.”
We learnt today why the government did not want Liverpool to continue in office and perhaps why they do not want Eluid. According to Ian Douglas, government has long completed the draft Bill to move Dominica away from the Privy Council but the Bill did not obtain the assent of the President because he felt the proper constitutional process may not have been followed.
Therefore, the DLP wants to have a President that would do their bidding as such a move would require a 2/3 majority vote in parliament. As Ian stated, neither Liverpool nor Eluid would sign the Bill into law.
Oh what a tangled web we weave. Only to find later that that same web will have us tangled. The pit we dig for others, we will fall in it. What examples are we teaching the younger generation. Oh what a difficult people we have become. Enemy have us all confused. We pull down the Spirit of Confusion/war/strife/ in the Name of Jesus! We call into being peace to this land of Dominica in the Mighty Name of Jesus!
Our peace will not be shattered. In the Mighty Name of Jesus, we nullify the plans of the Enemy… we also pray for our leaders that they will what is right and have the Fear of the Lord.
Can the pm come clean with us as to the status of mr Williams why can’t he be reelected as president what is really going on I am so confused lord help Dominican our country is falling pm what are u hiding come clean with us election is soon
A popular saying, “Play with dogs and you sure to get fleas.”
Imagine Williams treated with so much contempt by the same man who spoke so highly of him and “through doctrine of necessity” became President just the order day. So many of our trained people allow themselves to be tossed like a Yo-Yo and ridiculed for a few dollars more. Or do they want to belong?
Like the ostrich they bury their heads while the country suffer and the people’s standard of living get worse and worse. A few have become the Nouveau Rich. Many have acquired that wealth, not by the sweat of thy brow, but by all kinds of dubious, corrupt, illegal actions.
The poor country have been paying two (2), Yes 2 Presidents at a time. Liverpool has not resigned but claimed he is ill and couldn’t continue to hold office. Williams was placed, questionably, to fill out Liverpool’s time ending in October.
Look again in Parliament today more Koshoni. What was the purpose? The speaker received a letter from Skerritt today Sept. 12, the day of Parliament sitting. What is that?
Consultation was concluded for ABK, but not yet for the new nominee. If both opposition and Govt. agree on the new nominee, after proper consultation, all the better. If not, then parliament will decide, by vote, for the nominee of the Govt. or that of the opposition. Upside down. Inside out. Back to front.
. Change is a must, not an option.
they understanding the law can the costitution now no need for doctrin of nessesity
It is necessary that Dominicans vote this government out of office whether constitutionally or via the coolwash brigade but by any means necessary
These guys just have to go PERIOD.
is this government anti christ or is the prime minister being used by the devil?,
Jesus chose men ,oh God ,men are choosing wemen
please dont missunderstand me ,i have nothing against wemen ,but i think they have their place and this one is not
This government is anti-itself, anti-constitutional, anti-Dominicans, anti any thing that is descent, clear and simply. This is a rogue government that like confusion, confrontation and disorder.
This is an earthly democratic government, not a godly, spiritual, religious one. Note the difference.
You should know in some religions women are pastors. In addition, Dominica had a woman prime minister. So did Great Britain and Australia. Canada has women premiers and the list goes on. Wake up! Women are rising and have been for sometime. One day they may take over the world as in the U.S., a woman president.
As the world progresses, there is more to come. I am not stating that the world will become better unless God puts a hand. The world continues and there is no turning back.
We are in 2013. Are you serious?
I support you. where are the men in Dominica?Aren’t there men left?
Does Skerrit want women he can control.
Mr williams is a reputable man.
The PM seem to have no regard for the men of the country.
Mrs. Lafond, i think it would do you better to enjoy your retirement in peace.
A wonder he did not nominate his puppet ,Loreen
idiotic statement.
What else should I expect from someone who can’t even spell “women”?
I nominate fr eustace Thomas
I concur
@ aa: Is now the Country will run out of wine
I would like to nominate Brian Alleyne.
Alix Boyd Knight already say he will never get that position.
Here is what the opposition said: “John has indicated in the media that the United Workers Party would support the new government nominee if she met certain Constitutional requirements and more information is given.”
here is what THEY saying:
“I hereby inform you that the Leader of the Opposition and I have been unable to agree on a joint nominee of a candidate for election as president”
Why the disparity? and what is wrong with the opposition wanting to know more about the candidate before they agree. I can’t understand if Dominicans are considered to be blind bats, or all preschoolers that this sense of illogical reasoning can be so blatantly provided to them on a continuous bases. I see the opposition as doing the right thing.
Today was a day of Lies, Lies and more lies in parliament by a group of liars, cheaters and thieves. We just have to ensure that these people are voted out.
It is too bad they did not delve into the life of their UWP leader and that he had to meet certain Constitutional requirements and more information was given prior to nominating and appointing him as ‘a qualified’ leader, one who hopes to be PM. They should practice what they preach and want. They must be careful what they state, request, demand and expect lest it be thrown back into their faces.
it is very shameful to see and here how the opposition and their follower’s are behaving sometimes I wish they could here themselves they have so much hatred in there hearts I wonder if they forget there is a God, they have children, and the world is listening what example are our future head of state is sending to the world that it is all right to be a bully, it and it is alright to be ignorant, this is not a person you would like you children to look up to, you can disagree with someone but you don’t have to do it in a shameful manner, SHAME ON YOU GUYS.
I didn’t see any hatred. Opposition is not by definition hatred.
So says ye who is without sin
Every time the opposition voice a constitutional concern you people come here with your nonsense about hatred.
The constitution is the law and you should be thankful that there are people who sacrifice to protect your rights.
What do you want the opposition to do, just agree with everything, if so why have an opposition? But I know you all would be happy with a One party state but we will NOT allow that in DA.
It appears that is you who has forgotten that there is a God and what God stand for. Remember when Satan took Jesus up on the mountain and showed him the world with the promise of untold riches if only Jesus would worship him he refused know that earthly wealth was not enough to get into his father’s kingdom, unlike you and your government so don’t coke here talking about God as if you care about God’s rules and laws, Wolf in sheep’s clothing.
are u serious/
oh do put a sock in it! Do you listen to how the Prime minister and his followers speak? So if you wanna throw stones here watch your
If the shoe was on the other foot you all would behave the same way and even worst!
Stop playing politics. Everyone who gets a job is suppose to do so if they meet the requirements that allows them to get that job. In the Dominica constitution there are requirements for this post as president. The UWP is not in opposition to Mrs. Lafond appointment. You guys must stop trying to divide the people. They are simply saying that if she indeed meets the requirements as listed in the constitution then they will support her fully. Jeezzz
forget president, please explain his role……i am all ears…….. so i am listening.
Who is the UWPs nominee for the position of President? Why is it there has been no name presented? It was well known that President Williams was completing President Liverpool’s term; therefore, the UWP should have been preparing for this moment. Why are they caught with their pants down?
They are all talk. They do not have one or a suitable one. The way they carried on, did it not dawn on them that the current president would only be a temporary replacement until President Liverpool’s term expired?
J L NO their pants are on u are blind and have not the capacity to understand the English language why would they nominate when they are in agreement with the Government nominee. whats wrong with u devil find work for evil doers.
Stop playing politics. They have no reason to propose a nominee as the name of Mrs. Lafond is already on the table. Everyone who gets a job is suppose to do so if they meet the requirements that allows them to get that job. In the Dominica constitution there are requirements for this post as president. The UWP is not in opposition to Mrs. Lafond appointment. You guys must stop trying to divide the people. They are simply saying that if she indeed meets the requirements as listed in the constitution then they will support her fully. Jeezzz
@ Jamie Lewis didn’t you hear they said that they are in support of Mrs. Lafond, and was just requesting some information! what other name do you want them to present. Why are you people so blind to all the lies Skeiit tells. One day you will want to wish you were never blind. D… sick country!!!!!!
It is not the media the Opposition has to say that they maybe, might or may support a nominee.
It is the Prime Minister and the Speaker they must inform that that they support the nominee to allow the process to flow swiftly.
If they say they do not or let me think about it. Or whatever fancy words they want to use, the fact remains, there is no agreement and therefore the open nomination and elections begin. Why didn’t the opposition bring in their nomination to the House yesterday. You know why they didn’t? Because they wanted to delay the process. Plain and simple for all to see.
My God this is so simple even my 5 year old would understand.
Tell dem to pick meeeee…
No one has said they disagree with the proposed nominee. So, let us all be calm and let the process, in accordance with the Constitution takes its course.
Don’t know why some of our people on both sides of the isle continue to create waves, and deepen a pointless enmity over the process.
No wonder the late Rodney King once asked, “Can We All Just Get Along?” There’s much to be done by you people, be you DLP, UWP DFP or Independent. Your brand of politics has become a cancer that’s killing the good old way of life we all once knew in Dominica. That’s a shame eh!
So you trying to say that some of the people who commented on the last news item didn’t SAY THEY OPPOSE TO THE NEW NOMINEE? … Some people DID say they disagree, go read the comments.. or are you trying to say that they are not some”ones” ..smh
Skerrit has refused to consult and Dominica can not Mr. Skerrit to continue to abuse our constitution. This nonsense must stop.
Jennifer Wallace Lafond for president,what a joke ,that’s all Dominica have to offer?the country really going backward.
Ok Papa Bondieu for President! What is your take on that? lol.Whoever will b good for that position
all u is something else
As least she is far better than Ma Knight.
could not have sai d it any better.
Is it a sympathy thing or what? What aboutDr. Watty? Let’s elect /nominate real people jennifer my foot.
What is wrong with you people. Who says the president and the Pm are at war. Stop speculating and get the facts.
Well, it is Ian Douglas who said the President would not sign the Bill drafted by the AG’s office because the President felt that the proper constitutional process was not adhered to.
I have one question: Who is the UWP’s nominee? I hear them opposing but I am yet to hear of a proposed nominee from them.
Stop playing politics. They have no reason to propose a nominee as the name of Mrs. Lafond is already on the table. Everyone who gets a job is suppose to do so if they meet the requirements that allows them to get that job. In the Dominica constitution there are requirements for this post as president. The UWP is not in opposition to Mrs. Lafond appointment. You guys must stop trying to divide the people. They are simply saying that if she indeed meets the requirements as listed in the constitution then they will support her fully. Jeezzz
I nominate Eluid Williams
We want to know what went wrong between members of the evil cabal posing as a government,and the outgoing president, Mr Williams.
He was only finishing ex-president Liverpool’s term.
I’m trying to wonder what is going wrong in your evil mind.
Boyish all You boyish or Stupi All you stupid UWP?John,Lennox using.
you stupid die nu you really die your consitution you want them skerrit ite disobeying foolish if you have children thing you blaming uwp stop it your country come first.
Stop playing politics. Everyone who gets a job is suppose to do so if they meet the requirements that allows them to get that job. In the Dominica constitution there are requirements for this post as president. The UWP is not in opposition to Mrs. Lafond appointment. You guys must stop trying to divide the people. They are simply saying that if she indeed meets the requirements as listed in the constitution then they will support her fully. Jeezzz
Elections
19.-
Whenever the office of President is vacant or the term of office of the President is due to expire within not more than ninety days, the Prime Minister shall consult with the Leader of the Opposition as to their joint nomination of a suitable candidate for election as President.
If the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition submit to the Speaker by writing under their hands a joint nomination of a candidate for election as President to which that candidate has consented, the Speaker shall inform the House of the nomination, and declare that candidate to have been duly elected without putting the question to the vote.
If the Prime Minister is unable to agree with the Leader of the Opposition as to their joint nomination of a candidate for election as President, he shall notify the Speaker to that effect and the Speaker shall inform the House accordingly.
The Prime Minister or the Leader of the Opposition or any three member of the House may, during the period expiring fourteen days after the day on which the House has been so informed, submit to the Speaker by writing under their hands nominations of candidates for election as President and the Speaker shall at the first meeting of the House after the expiration of that period and before the House proceeds to any other business inform the House of the nominations he has received and to which the candidates concerned have consented.
An election of the President at which the candidates shall be those of whose nomination the House has been informed by the Speaker, shall thereafter be held at the meeting of the House referred to in subsection (4) of this section (or if proceedings under section 22 of this Constitution are pending before the Court of Appeal, at a meeting of the House held as soon as is practicable after those proceedings) and the Speaker shall declare the candidate who has at that election received the votes of a majority of all the members of the House to have been duly elected:
Provided that when the question of the election of the President is put to the vote, the votes shall be given by ballot in such manner as not to disclose how any particular member of the House votes.
5A. Where the only candidate for election under subsection (5) of this section does not receive the votes of a majority of all the members of the House, the Speaker shall inform the House accordingly and a new election shall be held to which the provisions of subsection (4) and (5), mutatis mutandis, apply.
Where a person consents to be nominated for election as President he shall do so by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker.
A person who has been declared to have been duly elected as President under this section shall assume office as such on the day after the day on which his predecessor vacates the office of President or, if that office is already vacant, he shall assume office on the day after the day on which he was declared to have been duly elected.
Qualifications for office nomination.
20.-
A person shall be qualified to be nominated for election as President if, and shall not be so qualified unless, he is a citizen of Dominica of the age of forty years or upwards who at the date of his nomination has been resident in Dominica for five years immediately preceding his nomination.
For the purposes of subsection (1) of this section a person shall be deemed to reside in Dominica if he holds an office in the service of the Government, or is employed with any intergovernmental organisation or institution of the Commonwealth Caribbean or any international organisation or institution of which Dominica is a member and lives outside Dominica because he is required to do so for the proper discharge of his functions.
Parliament may, by resolution supported by the votes of not less than three-fourths of all the elected members of the House waive the residence qualification laid down in subsection (1) of this section with respect to any particular person to be proposed for nomination.
Disqualifications for elections and holding office.
21.-
A person shall not be qualified to be elected as President if-
he has already held the office of President for two terms; or
he is disqualified to be elected or appointed as a Representative or Senator by virtue of subsection (1)(a), (b), (c), (d), (e) or (f) of section 32 of this Constitution or by virtue of any law enacted in pursuance of subsection (2), (3) or (5) of that section.
A person shall not be qualified to hold the office of President if he holds any other office or emolument whether in the public service or otherwise nor engage in any other occupation for reward.
The constitutional provisions are very clear. One does not have to go to law school to have a better interpretation of these constitutional provisions than our disgraceful AG.
So did the nominee Alix Boyd-Knight, write to the speaker Alix Boyd-Knight consenting to be nominated? Everywhere you look in this process it is clear that skerritt is he’ll bent on disobeying the constitution of Dominica. That is further proof that this person was not fit to be president
What if the person is a dual citizen(US and Dominica)?
Well, that is why the UWP and the Constitution demand and necessitate that the PM must consult with the Leader of Opposition in coming up with a joint nominee.
The UWP needs the CV of the nominee and a discussion/interview etc. before it could agree with the nominee. This is the purpose for the constitutional consultation that Skerrit, the Reddherring AG and Ma knight JUST DOES NOT LIKE and they are deliberately mesing up to put us in yet another constitutional crisis.
Stop it Ma Knight, Skerrit and Peters. Ian you as a lawyer, a graduate of UWI ought to know better. Toneh! Saw pa ka tan then! Stop it. Respect our constitution.
Where does it say that the Nominee must be interview by the Leader of the Opposition in his office?
Maybe the pm like stupid ppl he can control…………
Dominicans rise!
Where is your pride in yourself?
Any rational person can do a better job.
You rational why you don’t do the job….
Apply for it and nominate yourself.
Mr.PM please don’t back down to them.
@ Tarzan Your no brainer. Back down on what? No wonder Skerrit has all you like slaves so. Poor, unable to pay all you bills, begging,cannot find a job, but yet you all cannot see.
HONOURABLE JOHN DO NOT DO ANYTHING IN A RUSH. TAKE YOU ALL TIME!
Can’t you remember the RUSH (DOCTRINE OF necessity) in which the outgoing president Mr Williams, was appointed to office? Have you asked why Skerrit is not mentioning his name now?
Tarzan. back down from what and who be real he have done the people wishes so he is now being a boy with toys and in your ignorant you supporting just like that shame on u whats wrong with being right people.
Just a year ago Skerrit had soo many wonderful things to say about Mr. Eleud Williams,and why he would be a good President, all of a sudden, the man have some reservation on the tunes he is being forced to sing, and bamm Skerro looking for a new rubber to stamp his wishes come true, wow. I nominate Eleud Williams again!! Alas..
Mr.Williams doesn’t want to be president…It has put a strain on he and his family…get alll the facts first
Papa Bondieu for President! They will find something wrong with him.
I can understand that. This is why some politicians in Canada and the U.S. of all resign, citing that they want to spend more time with their family. It is a strenuous position.
Hmmph, Who appointed u P R O for Mr WILLIAMS HE was interested one year ago came in with contraversy so i guess u forget when it suit u whats wrong with being right.
this new normintion clearly show that labour party inner circles has the remote in thier hands. this idea came from the social boys club of the cricket team.and it being a after thought which was surgestted, was taken and ran away with.is this the manner in which such important decisions are made in Dominica??.such dyminic leader ship we got. and we continue to shop as the days go by.
But your spelling and grammar though!!! Invest in a dictionary… Or even hooked on phonics…
@ question
Your comment is replete with grammatical errors, starting with a conjunction for example. Take it easy, this medium is not an English grammar class. The most important thing is to get the point across.
So langsal what club does the opposition belong to cause at least Skerrit is showing he wants a woman for President i havent heard who the opposition wants!!!!!!!
Please shed some light….. thank you
Stop playing politics. Everyone who gets a job is suppose to do so if they meet the requirements that allows them to get that job. In the Dominica constitution there are requirements for this post as president. The UWP is not in opposition to Mrs. Lafond appointment. You guys must stop trying to divide the people. They are simply saying that if she indeed meets the requirements as listed in the constitution then they will support her fully. Jeezzz
Sorry, I don’t understand what you are saying or trying to say. Kindly rewrite!
“Used, abused and now discarded!”