Only UWP responds to debate call, so far

debateThe Dominica Debates Commission has said only the United Workers Party (UWP) has so far responded to a call for a debate between the two major political parties on the island.

Since general election was announced for December 8, the Commission said it has invited the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) and the UWP to identify a senior official of each respective party to participate in the debate.

But acting chairperson of the Committee Lilian Piper said so far only the UWP has responded.

With just days left before the general election, Piper remains optimistic that the DLP will come on board.

The Dominica Business Forum has teamed up with the Commission to organize a panel discussion which is slated for Thursday, December 4 to address socio economic issues in Dominica.

“You can host a debate a day before the election,” Piper said.

According to Piper, what really drives a debate is the people, insisting on it and the media, which telecasts it.

“You can have a room this small and have the two podiums set up and the moderator and you can have a debate,” she said. “Because it is not something that is widely attended, it is something that is broadcasted.”

She said the debate will allow people “listening to the parties talk about things that really matter” and making decisions based on that.

Piper stated that debates are part of the democratic process.

“A lot of societies want this, the people want it, they look forward to it and it is part of the democractic process…” she said.

A poll done by Dominica News Online indicates that the majority of those who participated are in favour of a debate.

1,170 readers took part in the poll.

1,017 readers (87 percent) voted in favour of the debate while 153 or 13 percent, were not in favor.

“So what the polls have said, Dominicans want one,” Piper stated.

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78 Comments

  1. LabourYout
    December 3, 2014

    It is his Democratic right to choose to debate or not. If the PM don’t want to debate with a Journalist, me personally find it to be a waste of time. More talks a manifesto just release we have to debate about what?

    Lennox Linton want to come an run his mouth about things he don’t know about and MOUs and foreign relations. Things he have only read about, my PM about the work not the talk.

    We will debate next election but right now? We on our Labout Train no time for talk..we on our campaign trail.. @LabourYouts #TeamLabour #TeamPeace

  2. Anonymous
    December 3, 2014

    I am somewhat embarassed by some of the comments on this matter as they clearly demonstrate the lack of depth of political knowledge. What the commission is requesting is a Presidential style debate which is foreign to the Westminister system of politics. In DA we are not voting for a man to be the President but for a political party which espouses the values of the people, and by extension the leader of the winning party will more than likely be the PM or head of state.
    If this debate were to materialize, then issues that I would be concerned about are
    1. What are the principles and rules
    2. What is the format
    3. What will be the methodology for question and audience selection.
    The way that I see it, based on previous comments is that the debate is geared more towards a popularity contest on showcasing the speaking skills of a person moreso than substance.

  3. A Doubting Thomas
    December 3, 2014

    Since the elections were called we have been having debates. What would we call all the campaign meetings? Isn’t what the two parties have been doing?

    The two parties have been telling us where they stand and we all know where they stand, therefore we do not need the parties facing each other on the podium in the same room and call that an election debate. If you have not made up your mind as yet, a face to face debate will not do that for you.

    Leadership is everything and we all know who is the better leader to lead our country for the next 5 years. I do not need a face to face meeting of the parties to tell me which of the two parties or the best leader to run the affairs of Dominica. If you do not know by know, I can tell you a side by side podium debate will not do that.

    Exercise your right to vote and vote the party and the person you see can take you and our country to the Next Level and in my opinion there is only one party and one PM who can truly do that.

  4. warrior
    December 3, 2014

    What skerrit fraid of? He doe say linton uneducated nuh?

  5. Anonymous
    December 3, 2014

    Skerrit wat u scared of? I thought linton was uneducated!!

  6. Jay
    December 3, 2014

    As I stand in front of one of those non-effacing billboards of Roosevelt Skerrit proclaiming that “leadership is everything”, the following famous quotes about leadership come to mind and I ponder:

    – “No man will make a great leader, who wants to do it all himself or to get all the credit for doing it” – Dale Carnegie
    – “He, who has never learned to obey can not be a good commander” – Aristotle.
    – “No man is good enough to govern another man without that others consent” – Abraham Lincoln.
    -“A cowardly leader is the most dangerous of men” – Stephen King

    And I leave you with the old Latin proverb that says:” It is absurd that a man should rule others , who can not rule himself”.

  7. How dominica come na
    December 2, 2014

    Debate, DEbate my foot, wait f debate allu u will never see mr debate, he is afraid of linton. skerette going down, fifteen years of misery that’s enough, I worked all my life and …… is only one year and his bank book like someone that was in England who retired and came down to dominica to enjoy their hard earn fraddy.[cold weather]. skerette give up, that not your place forever, dominica is hard. I am stressed, its time f u to go, another five years of u and I am out of dominica.

  8. Mee3
    December 2, 2014

    Madam Pipier Dream on my dear dream on. There is no way the DLp will debate. they know there is no way they can win any debate. They can send anyone from the UWP and they will win the debate. DLP cannot state facts and ll they do is “mapwezey” people. I would have love to listen to that debate so much “LINTON vs SKERITT.

  9. concern
    December 2, 2014

    What the real purpose of the debate? To see who could do it best.Let the ballot speak on election day.

    • RastarMarn
      December 2, 2014

      You never went to school man,,,

      Garçon you don’t know what a debate is yet if not go back and check nuh,,,

      if you really don’t know what a debate is here: debate |diˈbāt|
      noun
      a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward.

      After reading this if you still have any questions on the concept then you need to enroll back into school not sure where but just enroll somewhere!!!

  10. Next Level
    December 2, 2014

    Mr. Skerrit, you are losing a supporter. If Mr. Skerritt refuses to debate . . . I am not voting for him. What is he afraid of, if Mr. Linton is as uneducated as Skerrit states? Why is Skerrit such a coward? Let’s discuss the current issues, so everyone can hear, then make an educated analytical decision.

    • LabourYout
      December 3, 2014

      If you read the Manifestos and cannot make a decison yet you are uneducated.

  11. Waitingtobconvinced
    December 2, 2014

    If a debate cannot be held between the political leaders of the respective parties I suggest the following: (1) Debate between (a) Ron Green and Peter Petter on Education and Social Services; or (b) Ian Douglas and “sikiri” on Legal Affairs, Access to Justice for the poor of Dominica, Good Governance and Constitutional Reform; or (c) Monelle Williams and Justina Charles on Community Developement, Youth Empowerment ,Environment Protection.
    Hope it is not too late for the Debate Commission to contact these politicians and their parties and arrange such debate.
    Debates of this character are essential to the democratic process. Bishop Malsaire and the Church Council Cardinal Kevin Felix, DAAS President Dr Clayton Shillingford and Dr Gabriel Christian legal adviser and scribe,, the Trade Unions-CSA, DTA,PWA DAWU,DTU NWU,, the merchant community,the Employers Association, the Service Club-Rotary and Lions, should all call on the Political Parties to debate between today and Saturday 5th December 2014.

    • Diaspora
      December 2, 2014

      I agree with the suggestion from Waitingtobconvinced. Debates Commission get on the ball now-Miss Piper

    • December 2, 2014

      I like your suggestions on the issues for debate.

      :?: However, re the latter paragraph of your statement: Why the Bishop…? Why religious leaders? What has religion to do in politics? Religious leaders should NOT influence the choices of their individual members in political or voting matters. That is NOT their place or calling.

      • Anonymous
        December 3, 2014

        Definitely, keep religion out of politics. This is not ISIS states.

  12. Waitingtobconvinced
    December 2, 2014

    If a debate cannot be held between the political leaders of the respective parties I suggest the following: (1) Debate between (a) Ron Green and Peter Petter on Education and Social Services; or (b) Ian Douglas and “sikiri” on Legal Affairs, Access to Justice for the poor of Dominica, Good Governance and Constitutional Reform; or (c) Monelle Williams and Justina Charles on Community Developement, Youth Empowerment ,Environment Protection.
    Hope it is not too late for the Debate Commission to contact these politicians and their parties and arrange such debate.
    Debates of this character are essential to the democratic process. Bishop Malsaire and the Church Council Cardinal Kevin Felix, DAAS President Dr Clayton Shillingford and Dr Gabriel Christian legal advises and scribe,, the Trade Unions-CSA, DTA,PWA DAWU,DTU NWU,, the merchant community,the Employers Association, the Service Club-Rotary and Lions, should all call on the Political Parties to debate between today and Saturday 5th December 2014.

  13. Zuma
    December 2, 2014

    I really do not understand why the cry for Skeritt to have a debate with Linton.. Is it to be convinced that Lennox is a good speaker and Skerrit is a good dresser… Or is it to clarify the economics of dominica if so any one in the labour government can do it.. Ask one of the senior parl reps… And secondly if Skerrit says no.. Well why force him.. He does not want and that is that.. Leave it… I am of the impression that Lennox is a smooth operator with speech only and this is his strength.. Well if this is the case Dominicans fini bat with a smooth talker pm… Tell me more of Lennox strength.. You have already said he can talk what else can he excell in.. Lay it down.. All am hearing is debate debate debate.. That’s all Lennox can do.. I would believe he has more to offer than fine speech…

    • December 2, 2014

      debate is not about smooth talking, but is being able to articulate tour points and message also to see who is thinking quicker on their feet , only an old excuse boots who will dredge up all kind of reasons for not debating

    • Ma Moses
      December 3, 2014

      Let’s face it Zuma. Skerrit is a coward

      • Zuma
        December 3, 2014

        I don’t agree.. There was so much a do about nothing? You all run Skerrit scared physically
        I believe he is afraid of being boo ragged by Lennox,many physically abused…

    • Anonymous
      December 4, 2014

      There are many things you don’t understand Zuma and that is why you are following Skerrit. Good luck.

  14. anonymous
    December 2, 2014

    Skerrit wants to hang with the BiG Dogs but when time to deliver he falls short. Not only do you have to TALK THE TALK YOU GOT TO WALK THE WALK. Everything seems to be a grand Show yet he shying away from a Debate? What is he scared of? Have you seen any decent leader shirk from a political Debate? You try so hard to emulate those who make a mark around the world even try to compare yourself to some.

  15. Pondera
    December 2, 2014

    This coward leader called Skerrit is running from the debate. If Lennox is so unschooled then go and debate him and win yourself more popularity. You coward! You stand in the comfort of your platform and ask Lennox question. We Dominicans want a debate of the leaders. If you man, come out and debate Lennox. You coward and incompetent leader. Is that what I must vote you for? As a University graduate, do you really want me to have any confidence in your leadership. Those of us from the academia side look forward to intellectual debate from our leaders. You Mr Skerrit you act as a little boy who is scared of learned people. You thrive well in peoples ignorance. And you call that leadership?? Give me a break.

  16. too late
    December 2, 2014

    skerrit come and debate so u can call lennox dunce. come nuh

  17. Just Observing
    December 2, 2014

    “The Dominica Debates Commission”. What is that? How long has it been in existence? What is its mandate? Who are its officers? In the Monday December 1st edition of the Sun Newspaper, most reverend Watty ask certain questions of our political parties and concluded that what we have parading as political parties are really “misfits”. He raised issues touching on membership, meetings, subscription etc. I am raising similar issues relative to the “Dominica Debates Commission” What is it? From whence did it come? The only face the commission has to date is the person I understand to be the Executive Secretary of the Association of Industry and Commerce. I read in another online news outfit, that Mr. Mackenzie’s organization was in support of a political debate between the leader of the UWP and the DLP.

    Suddenly, a debate between the two political leaders is thrown up as an acid test for who is ready or not to lead the government of Dominica after the December 8th general elections. If Skerrit does not agree to debate then he is not ready for government. I hear that coming loud and clear. on the other hand, leader of the UWP, acutely aware of his eloquence and mastery of the English language, even when he is telling a most revealing untruth is cock-hook about the debate. He wants to debate. He wants another public oportunity to demonstrate his debating skills.

    So like last election (December 2009) a sudden frenzy emerges about the appropriateness of a debate between our leaders. Last election a motley group of UWP misfits, led by Patrick John’s “man with the Master Plan” attempted to physically haul PM Skerrit to the Arawak House of Culture for a debate with Ron Green. PM Skerrit depsite his experience at the helm of government, knowledge and understanding of the issues flatly refused and he did again this year. PM Skerrit knows his strength and he knows where he is weak. His inability to eloquently analyze and speak on the issues and communicate the truth (about foreign policy, the economy, social agenda etc) to the listeners is limited by a speech impediment. He speaks quicklyand may not be as articulate on the issues as his opponent. Lennox on the other hand can be cool and collective, speak in his broadcast voice and would therefore chew him (Skerrit) in a Public debate. That is what some people know and have been agitating for a debate. PM Skerrit will not allow himself to be used by a UWP sponsored and organized public show. The people matters. The people understand their PM and where he wants to take them. They have heard Lennox for the last ten years, the last five years and more specifically, the last year. Lennox has spoken ad nauseum about where he wants to take Dominica. The people have heard and they have questions which he has not yet answered. E.G Who are these family of yours in Europe who have been financing your party and the election? If it is wrong as you have championed for political parties to receive campaign financing from external sources, then why is it you are receiving and courting such financial support? Why are you doing the same thing regarding campaign financing that you are accusing the PM of? Do I need a debate to get an answer.

    The debate commission can from here on tell the public who they are, what are their objectives, set rules and regulations for their existence and future debates importantly to immediately after the election begin a program to encourage and sensitize those who claim to hold the moral compass of the nation to rise from their five years slumber and speak forcefully, objectively and authoritatively on the issues every time they arise throughout the five year term. Then they can demand a debate – next time.

  18. Amazing
    December 2, 2014

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jka__EE-a64

    DOMINICANS LISTEN!!
    THIS IS THE JOKE OF THE DLP!!

  19. Referee
    December 2, 2014

    The decision of the Dominica Labour party to boycott the debate ( I hope they change their mind) speaks volumes about how the leaders of that party view democracy and their willingness to engage the electorate in a manner that will lead to more informed choices.
    Those who understand and appreciate democracy also understand that democracy is a living concept. It must be nurtured with information. The more information there is, the more transparency there is, and the more the electorate can make informed decisions.
    It is not enough for the prime minister to hide in his fox hole and spew half truths and outright misinformation. It is crass behavior for the prime minister and his underlings to think that petty bribes to voters is a substitute for active engagement and discussion of the issues.
    This is antithetical to the cause of democracy. It is also an insult to the intelligence of the electorate, the vast majority of whom are highly educated and cannot be expected to suspend their cognitive skills.
    Voting should not be not a brainless exercise . It requires gathering and analyzing available information about the parties, the record of accomplishment of the incumbents, and the plans of the opposition.
    This is what a debate would address and Mr. Skerrit, whether out of fear or a feeling of personal inadequacy, is not living up to his responsibility to the electorate and for this he should be judged and help accountable when voters head to the polls.

  20. Wept
    December 2, 2014

    If Labor party STEALS this election, I am calling on the Dominica protest ! Take to the streets like 1979. The rule of the ppl- we will not sit and watch Dominica fall into a dictatorship regime. i will be there to spark the revolution against the monster of a man. I want Dominica in the next few days to look the you tube video of young skeritt being interviewed by Lennox Linton in 2000 and then look at the man Skeritt is today – Dominicans get ready to take to the streets to fight for your rights
    ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAHteqtkxOg)

  21. nypossie
    December 2, 2014

    The institutions and associations in Dominica continue to fail the people of Dominica. I have lived in other jurisdictions and the big difference between Dominica and where I have lived is the seriousness to which people, institutions, and professional associations and civil society (the electorate) takes the elections process. In these jurisdictions example Trinidad and Tobago one would find in the Guardian and the Express etc, in Barbados the Advocate etc and in Jamaica the Gleaner etc critical commentaries on the issues in the election. These commentaries would come from various institutions, professional groups that would help the reader analyse the issues. there would be analysis of the manifestos and the plans and programmes of the different political parties on radio and on Television programmes; in those jurisdictions you will find people from the private and corporate sector, from professional institutions and civil society seating in forums examining and discussing the plans and programmes of the different parties and or candidates with or without the party representatives present. The panelist would be made up of persons from the private and or public sector who may not necessarily belong to any of the parties, but if they do, they would converse in a real mature and objective way. There would be daily media engagements with two or more participants engaging in various perspectives on the plans and programmes of the candidates and the parties; and there would be debates and exchanges on the direction and vision of the parties organized and moderated by different institutions. But down here what I see happening is all the institutions and I can name them : the Bar Association; the DAIC; The Evangelical Association; The Media Association; The Christian Council; The Lions , Leo; Rotary; not sure if there still is the Jaycees and Kiwanis; seem to have a hands off approach. I am getting the impression that the elections process in Dominica is geared at the man in the street for want of a better term; while the professional and corporate elite and the working class seat on the way side in watching and waiting. I mean the service clubs and social clubs were strong on organizing debates but now everybody seem not to be interested or is because one party or one man says he is not debating everyone is like standing on a side and accepting that to the disadvantage of the electorate. what a shame!. It is like the DAIC; DHTA; THE Bar Association, the Media Association and all the others are hiding behind a blind and or a curtain looking at a boxing match between Skerrit and Linton waiting to see who will win on points come Dec 8th and that’s all that matters! I mean that is so pathetic it is not funny. I bet my bottom dollar come after the Dec 8th we are going to see a group of the so called professional elite come together to analyse the results of the election and to talk their BS as to what went wrong and what went right. I can bet you they are going to discuss what strategy worked and what did not work; It would seem that this is all we are good at in Dominica, is to be ” after the fact” analysis; I want to urge those individuals and organization to come out now to speak and to discuss the burning issues; now is the time to come out to engage the candidates and the parties on their plans and to analyse them and criticize them – do not wait for after the 8th. Except for a few commentaries like Father Jolly; Rev Watty in the print media and Tyani and Dr. Pascal on radio there is no one else to really talk objectively about the issues. Every other forum has a political slant and or bias; The deceased Gordon Moreau would for sure have demanded a forum from the parties to discuss the issues I am sure about that – the decease Dereck” Stumpy” Angol would have organized a debate with the parties or with candidates already; the soft approach taken by Lilian and her commission towards the debate is a joke; if you have invited the party in power and they have not responded then say it as it is – stop begging in hope for a response – so it as it is- is it that they are disregarding you all or better yet disregarding the 87% of the population who have demanded the debate; are they cowards- if they are not prepared to debate then invite them to a forum where the DAIC, Bar Association and others can ask the hard questions. But it is not acceptable for the professional organizations to just seat back and do nothing about this situation; it is a travesty to the people for the so called professional organizations to seat back to allow the political campaign to be conducted in such a manner that makes it appear that they are indifferent to what is going on and they are not bothered. It is really unfortunate that we have come down to the last week of campaigning and not one forum has been organized by the likes of the DAIC; and others to extract from the contesting parties their vision and direction for the country. I mean this is maybe the only jurisdiction I have lived in that seem to have such a laid back private sector, and professional sector and maybe a civil society that just does care one way or the other how election or anything for that matter goes in this country.

    • Just Observing
      December 3, 2014

      I cannot agree with you more. Our civic organizations are lacking in so many respects. Some complain that the campaign is “dance and wine”. Others say that the campaign is lacking in real debate on the topical issues. All they want is to see Lennox Linton and Skerrit debate,as though that is all there is to learning about the parties policies and plans. Whether we like it or not, both parties have articulated (spoken) about their policies. Few interests groups without a partisan agenda has taken to do the necessary research and critically comment the same. The very few written commentaries we have seen and read are skewed to either of the parties. But that is still OK. Every individual has a right to represent their party and or their views however they wish as long as it is understood that your view, your opinion is not necessarily authoritative. But I agree with writer that Civil Society could have done much, much more to get the information. That said, it is true that the professionals among us are either for or against one of the parties. There are not many professionals here who can truly say that they non-partisan. The clergy too, a critical institution in our society is itself torn between blue and red. There are many powerful voices among the men of the cloth who see the same issue from very colour tainted sunglasses. They are either for Skerrit or against him. For Lennox or against him. Skerrit cannot do and has not done any thing good for the country, some would say. Conversely for some, he has done tremendously well. The same very subjective views are directed towards Linton by the very clergy who suppose to hold the moral compass for our society. There are two clergy men (different faiths) who write in the local newspaper. If you read their commentaries, every wrong in the society start and end with Pm Skerrit or the government he leads. They seldom recognize anything good he has done. They find something and everything wrong in every social program of government. If they cannot find anything wrong, they maintain their defeaning silence. Cannot bring themselves to recognizing the good that government does. When the masses show appreciation for government’s social programs, they find issue with the masses. Never an encouraging word. Conversely when they speak about the opposition, if there is any difficulty with a particular policy or comment they shroud their views among words and innuendos which they wish to apportion tovPM Skerrit.

      And so to there is every reason to express disappointments with our professionals and civic groups as we close this election. They hang their assessment of who is fit to govern this country on a political debate between the two leaders. I am of the view that much much more conversation could have taken place on the manifestoes without the leaders. But we like when Skerrit go after Linton’s jugular and vice versa. That is what makes us tick.

  22. Dancea
    December 2, 2014

    Why debate manifestos? People do not vote on the basis of what is written on a piece of paper. People vote on the basis of the personality, character, curriculum vitae, work experience and track record of the people who want to lead this country. Go back and read this again. This proposed debate by the likes of McKenzie is a waste of time — especially now when all candidates are doping their last minute campaigning. Come again, so-called Business Forum.

  23. December 2, 2014

    Yes I…. Well if he NoT Educated.. Debate him nuh…. and make the world know how uneducated he is.. LOL…. If you want to Know about the One China Policy , then debate him nuh….if you want to know how the plans and program of the UWP will be finance, then Debate LINTON.. Scared Kitty Cat Skerrit! Easy!

  24. Domnichen
    December 2, 2014

    The 87% of those asking for the debate are UWP supporters who want to show off LL’s oratory skills. We all know he is good at public speaking and the PM is not as strong. What else are these people trying to prove? Everyone has something that they can brag about. Ugly Willie had a very good immune system and had bragging rights; yet,, he never did..

  25. 4u2c
    December 2, 2014

    DLP you have just lost my vote. No Debate, NO DLP vote!!
    I was hoping to hear from the Leader what is in store for the next 5 years. He has nothing and I cannot vote for Nothing….
    So I will have to vote UWP!

  26. 4u2c
    December 2, 2014

    DLP you have just lost my vote. No Debate, NO DLP vote!!
    I was hoping to hear from the Leader what is in store for the next 5 years. He has nothing and I cannot vote for Nothing….

  27. plain to see
    December 2, 2014

    Was Skerritt an English teacher at the State College? What kind of teacher is that who would discourage, deliberately shy away from, participating in a civil discussion on development issues of the country?

    Which English curriculum, especially at College level, does not include discussion of issues relating to everyday life, debating, researching, seeking information., listening to differing views? It is healthy for human development.. What kind of person seeking to be in a leadership position as PM again, foolishly refuse to allow to inform the people of the way forward and their role in that process, in a civil debate? Pure fear, arrogance, disrespect and short-sightedness.

    The plain truth is, not that Skerritt cannot debate, but he is dead scared of the questions re. those illegal, corrupt practices and secret deals that he may be forced to answer, duck from or twist. The world would hear and judge for themselves in that debate, who is not speaking the truth, who is honest, who has integrity, who can articulate, who understands the issues, who is genuinely interested in improving the standards of the lives of Dominicans, who is only keen on enriching themselves in quick time by all kinds of dubious means. who speaks truth to power, etc., etc.,.

    Those illegal acts and secret deals revealed cannot even be refuted by the cabal. Skerritt is afraid of the truth. He believes his own untruths. He will not take the stand, he will never debate, not Linton, for fear of implicating himself.

  28. Not Me
    December 2, 2014

    All these politicians like Reginald Austrie and Skerrit ( is become increasingly like Reginald) know is mapwe rather than talk about the real issues of Dominica and how we can address them. One day the people of Dominica will demand some more meaningful talk instead of bribery and sewo.

  29. Lang Mama
    December 2, 2014

    I thought Skerrit started his own debate from a distance last week when he ask a question then he run behind a door to hide.
    I listen to a guy they call brain on Q95 who said that Skerrit should not debate but in te same breath he is talking about Dominicans becoming more futuristic.

    DNO I understand why Skerrit afraid to debate. The fact that he is intellectually delayed is not the only reason. At this juncture one lie will open up a drum of worms. You see Tony, Lennox, Simeone , Karmala etc can say one lie after the other because they have no direct responsibility to the voters . Skerrit on the other hand who is not a good thinker on his feet will have no choice but to expose his farcical operation.
    In fact on every topic Skerrit Will loose the debate in a colossal way. Te same would have happened in 2005, 2009 when the handlers deliberately shielded Skerrit from debating Edison James and Ron Green.
    How can we consider ourselves futuristic when those who want the top job to manage our national affairs cannot or refuse to stand up or sit down with adversaries or opponents to discuss and debate the people affairs , issues and concerns.

  30. December 2, 2014

    correct me if am wrong but the whole thing isnt it one big debate …my policy vs yours?
    just need to kn……

  31. Big Bangbang
    December 2, 2014

    Does anyone expect DLP to debate? What are they going to debate? Can they face the audience with facts? These guys are just fool of it! They lie and all they can depend on is big fete with international artists that we don’t even where they stand. Exam Cleple, they just has this Donnie Mc Clerkin here to deceive Christians. Yet up to this day no one knows about the true Donnie who confessed to be delivered from homosexuality in 2002, who also has two children outside of wedlock. Yet skerrit was able to give him $92K US dollars. This same gentleman was able to present a check of some $650K USD to the Jamaican government to improve heath care. So while Skerrit sewoing he getting nothing from them

  32. Lougawoo Mem
    December 2, 2014

    In 2014 that’s the version of good leadership from a government and people yet to be morally, spiritually and politically lead in the right direction. No surprise that the DLP is not interested in debate. They know very well that their supporters are not concerned about good governance of the nation. It’s always what can they get from the government via the RED CLINIC and by whatever means avail. Can’t succeed with that mentality. CHANGE IS A MUST!

  33. Anonymous
    December 2, 2014

    Be careful what you ask for. Like “call it nuh.” you may get it!!

  34. LINUX
    December 2, 2014

    where those die hard labar comments

  35. December 2, 2014

    The horse is dead,DOA, Stop antagonizing yourselves. Only your supporters want an entrapment. The PM is too busy praying for the Unity of Wayward Persons. You are saying 80***% that’s you core is that all you have?

    • WISER NOW
      December 3, 2014

      He must be praying to the devil. Love you have a kix” Pm is too busy praying for the unity of wayward persons” SMH. But we will pray him out with the Blood of Jesus, The God of Abraham, Joseph and Issac who lives and reigns forever.

  36. Anonymous
    December 2, 2014

    Well my people I live in the United States of America I have a Good Job I can send money barrels for my family I cannot help any other Dominicans so Domincans u have a choice to make this is your chance to VOTE that LaBoUr party Government OUT of office Dominicans you have been warned have u heard the news in Venezuela Just this week the people are suffering RIGHT NOW VOTE for change

  37. Anonymous
    December 2, 2014

    Only DLP people do not want the debate so that the PM can insult all Dominicans..

  38. WISER NOW
    December 2, 2014

    CITIZEN I know that you’re a labourite and it’s amazing and apalling how Labourites who claim to be “educated” can be so mischievous and hell bent on distorting the truth. It is the same ROOSEVELT SKERRIT, the same self professed GOD who says that Leadership is everything. Tell me then Mr. Roosevelt Skerrit why is it that you refuse to debate Mr. Linton ? We want a debate. We deserve better. We want you to dictate your plans and vision for Dominica for the next five years. We do not want to hear from anyone but you. Likewise we would like to hear from Mr. Lennox Linton because I believe that after all the fete that the fact remains we are not better off now than we were fifteen years ago. Labourites like Uwpites we are all in the same boat. When we go to the supermarkets we are faced with exorbitant prices, our utility bills are high and in most cases our bills are more than our salaries. So Mr. Skerrit you owe it to us to tell us how you are going to improve and reduce our standard/course of living because after fifteen years you have done nothing substantial for us. We are going to give Mr. Linton a chance because obviously he genuinely cares for the people cause if you did Mr. Skerrit irregardless of what the opposition thinks of you you would stand up for yourself and for Dominica we now know you do not possess the testicular fortitude to face Lennox L

  39. Anonymous
    December 2, 2014

    What is Skerrit afraid of? I would love a debate. Both sides get a chance to cover their manifesto, let people know their ideas, why they want what they want etc etc. So why wouldn’t they want it? The only thing I can think of is fear or dictatorship.

  40. Jon Carson
    December 2, 2014

    Can I make application for consideration to moderate the debate?

  41. True colors
    December 2, 2014

    So, here is a man that claims that he can sit in negotiations with foreign partners and keep his cool trying to secure the best forms of support for the nation. But he can’t sit across his own countryman in an exercise demanded by the people he loves so much? But tomorrow he’ll say that “he loves his people” and believes in education.

    My conclusion — In merely 8 months, Linton has exposed Skerrit for that he is! Skerritt can barely back-up the plans he presents in his manifesto. Everything is inconsistent with his actions, down to the down-right lie about being elected leader of the DLP 14 years ago! Now he has learned from the foreign oppressors that when you cannot present a logical argument with evidence to back you up (as a debate requires), you should use the cloak of religion to dupe the weak of mind and heart.

    Dominica deserves better. Skerritt can only STEAL his way into an election win this year. He called Linton into the ring, now he is running scared. Instead of resigning with grace and honor, he chooses to be booted out, grappling at straws rather than accepting change is a necessity.

  42. ravine
    December 2, 2014

    What is leadership?

  43. hmmm
    December 2, 2014

    As of toward I am no longer associated with the Dominica labour party. Shame Shame. If you cant debate about my future as a young person, your just empty and pointless. I am very disappointed. As of today am neutral .

  44. ex-police.
    December 2, 2014

    a pure sign of our democracy going down the drain, when a leader refuse to listen to the cry of the people. a people who he suppose to represent, a leader who serves as a servant to the people now becoming bigger than the people who put him there, i believe mister Skerrit is a coward and does not have the ability or skill of impromptu speech, he is a puppet on a string, but we have to ask ourselves, who controlling these strings. Skerrit is no longer a servant to the people but a master of the people.

  45. just sayin
    December 2, 2014

    all the question labour party wants from linton.. they would have gotten their answer through a debate… so why not just accept it..

  46. Wen
    December 2, 2014

    And Skerrit say Leadership is everything. LOL. What a joke!

  47. December 2, 2014

    As a U.S. resident for many years I have always viewed political debates as part of the election process. Thus, it is quite amusing, if not troubling, that the incumbent Prime Minister is not at the forefront in debating the pertinent issues with ANY opponent who wishes to replace him. The Prime Minister’s stance on Foreign Policy, Health Care, National Security and The Economy should be made clear before the voting public if he is asking for a mandate to continue taking the Country on its current course. As a keen and interested observer I see how Mr. Roosevelt Skerrit is very adept at criticizing and vilifying his political opponents, yet seemingly deathly afraid to face any of them one on one in a debate on the issues and their ideologies relating thereto.
    Dominicans should certainly take this as a sign.

  48. The One
    December 2, 2014

    What a shame by the Dominica Labor Party. They have little or no concern for the citizens of Dominica and the true Democratic process. To me their major concern is to win at any cost and …… To H….. with everything else. But for those of us who are truly concerned about the future of Dominica and our children we should rebuke them and vote for the team that professes to be open and transparent …..UWP Team Dominica. If they fail us, we remove them in five years time. THAT’S TRUE DEMOCRACY

    • Zuma
      December 2, 2014

      It is wiser to catch flies with honey than vinegar.. Smooth talk is false, deep down the smooth talker is thinking, look at this fool he digest all am saying but when I have him in the trap I will squeeze him for all his got…..

  49. Doc. Love
    December 2, 2014

    Isn’t it worrying to the Dominican voters that despite all what is being said about Mr. Linton’s educational background, Skeritt and the DLP candidates are afraid to sit in a room and question him. Great opportunity to prove he is a fraud as Skeritt claims. How can an intelligent Dominican vote for a politician who cannot convince you of his plans to make your country a better place to live, work and enjoy life. Is Skeritt a modern day Jim Jones , all he has to do is ask to be followed and no questions ask. The beauty of a general election is having political leaders at a debate. Not having a debate during election time, it like having carnival without musical bands on the road. I believe, Dominicans should tell Skeritt, seriously, if he is not prepared to debate a man who he considers to be uneducated, he isn’t as intelligent as he claims. This is an opportunity to prove to Dominicans that all the speeches, plans, programs he talks about are coming from him and not an advisor.

    • Zuma
      December 2, 2014

      And what is soooooo wrong in having an advisor……. As you said his advisor said to him don’t debate…. Now can we close the chapter voting is in 5 days time.. Tuesday is long past… Get on with it

  50. Lang sal
    December 2, 2014

    As a “Once upon a time Labourite”, these are some of the reasons why I have decided not to support any dam political party!
    I can’t believe that the Labour Party is blasting the UWP so much about the suitability/credentials of Linton yet Skerrit is hiding behind AStaphan and is shying away from the debate in an effort to prove his brilliance that his party says he is well known for.

    I am of the opinion that if Skerrit EVER takes a debate with LINTON, he will be a mashed potato from beginning to end.

    Any monkey can decipher between the two by signalizing the quality of their presentations during this election campaign.

    LINTON is an orator. Skerrit is NOT. Sorry labour.

    • Lang sal
      December 2, 2014

      OPPS! ………..analyzing…… Not signalizing!

  51. grell
    December 2, 2014

    No surprise Skerrit is a coward and he knows he will make a fool of himself @ any debate with Lennox,SKERRO face up to the man,stop being a coward,this is what your suppose to do and see who is the man.

  52. Citizen
    December 2, 2014

    Only UWP people want the debate so that they can insult the Prime Minister. NO DEBATE!!! :?:

    • browneyesgirl
      December 2, 2014

      The Prime Minister has taken Pride in insulting we the people of Dominica for more than 10 years, tell me just tell me why he cannot get his share insults too? Is he not humans? I say Debate! He can’t even speak in public without a stutter much less for the rebuttal huh COWARD!

    • liberty
      December 2, 2014

      labourites down want to debate cuz it would expose them

    • Bee
      December 2, 2014

      Oh so you think a debate is a platform to insult? That’s what you have been taught by your papa Skerrit? More and more its becoming clearer how the DLP supporters are empty barrels.
      A debate, dear citizen, is : the formal discussion of a motion before a deliberative body according to the rules of parliamentary procedure. OR a regulated discussion of a proposition between two matched sides. (according to Merriam Webster).
      If UWP wanted to insult Skerrit don’t you think they had sufficient opportunity during their rallies? Open up your mind and please remove the badge of ignorance on your forehead.

    • TRUTH
      December 2, 2014

      citizen, Shame on you,
      Only labour supporters ,do not want a debate ,because they rather believe lies ,than truths,
      Ant there ,the liar will be exposed,
      Skerrit must be laughing at his supporters,and calling them FOOOOOOO OOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLSSSSSSSSSSS

    • roseau north
      December 2, 2014

      Insult the PM how? by answering questions on your plans and programs for the country, thats insulting Skerrit??? Give me a break. Tell you beloved Skerrit stop hiding behind his advisors and step forward and debate Linton. Skerrit should not have anything to be afraid, he should be confident as he has been governing the country for the last 10 yrs, so he should know everything like the back of his hand and answer the debated questions with ease. Linton this and Linton that, and you Labourites laughing Linton and insulting him calling him uneducated. Who is showing that he is afraid to debate a so called uneducated man?? COWARDS!!!!

    • Mamizoo
      December 2, 2014

      Just an indication of how shameless and classless most of you Laborats are. Did you see the poll results. The average person with pride who know that their comment will go into the garbage bin of shame would not post such a comment.

    • nypossie
      December 2, 2014

      you are in fact insulting the PM by making him look so coward;

    • fabric
      December 2, 2014

      you mean make the prime minister look like what he really is; an incompentent puppet?

    • December 2, 2014

      To Citizen.

      Hello and good afternoon my people. Well if you don’t have a debate at lease between the two leader of the parties I can’t see how an educated voter would accept that. We also need debates among all the candidates from both parties. We are a Democratic country and our leader must respond to our needs.

    • Anonymous
      December 2, 2014

      It’s no insult if it’s the TRUTH. Just tell the truth Skerritt will not debate because he won’t be able to keep up, he will fail like he’s failed Dominica.

    • Anonymus
      December 2, 2014

      You seat down behind the blackboard in school nor tru?

  53. .
    December 2, 2014

    Skerrit has built his foundation on quick sand. If he step on it too hard he will sink. Lies, Lies Lies Lies and more Lies. If He go and debate, his tongue will tie, that’s why he will stay away by any means. If he could send Tony Astaphan, he would. Chaybay chorky!!!! :lol:

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