Following the decision by the main opposition entity (United Workers Party) not to contest the December 6th general election, a total of 18 independent candidates were subsequently nominated in 15 constituencies. This is the largest number of independent candidates to contest a general election at any given time in Dominica.
Running against a well established political party, some seven independent candidates have since organised themselves and channelled their thoughts and plans into a manifesto. After just 2 weeks of being thrust into the political arena, the coalition of independent candidates has titled their manifesto: “Unifying Dominica through Policies and Action”
Key areas such as the economy, healthcare, agriculture, education, social protection, and sports are knitted into this overarching manifesto. The first heading: Governance, Equity and Access speaks of the “systematic dismantling of governance structures resulting in inequitable access to state-controlled resources and services ” parallel with the plans to address the gaps identified.
The second area-Revitalising the Economy highlights the management of the economy by citing businesses that have departed Dominica’s shores followed by the economic strategy. The section; Sustainable Social Development also focuses on the need to strengthen the social service in order to “deliver and provide a range of support to at-risk groups and individuals”. The Human Resource Development- 2050 on the other hand highlights the need for a holistic and comprehensive educational approach to suit the needs of all Dominicans.
In its conclusion the manifesto notes that the “The Coalition has estimated that the Dominica Labour Party spent $72,000,000 financing its 2019 election campaign. We estimate a further $30,000,000 is being spent on this election campaign. We know that ordinary labour party membership fees do not cover the money the party spends. We understand that the cost of providing the Prime Minister and his family with accommodation and associated costs is $64,000 per month; that is $768,000 per year and $3,840,000 over a full parliamentary term. The Coalition believes that the 105,840,000 being spent by the Dominica Labour Party and to accommodate the Prime Minister could fund the following housing initiatives in this Manifesto”.
Housing Renewal Programme: Bring 1,000 old and abandoned properties back into use. Maximum Grants $30,000 per household – 30,000,000
Housing Adaptation Grant: Essential adaptations to enable 5,000 households with a disabled or elderly occupant. A maximum grant of $6,000 – 30,000,000
Owner Occupier Grant: Citizens living in the estimated 2,000 properties without electricity, running water or flushable toilets are brought up to standard. A maximum grant of EC$6,000 – 12,000,000
Housing Renovation Grant: Households whose homes were severely damaged and families living in overcrowded conditions to add a bedroom. Estimated 3,000 households and a maximum grant of $15,000 -45,000,000
Balance to be found by Government –11,160,000
Team Unity also launched its e-manifesto last week, however, with three more days to election day, the Dominica Labour Party has not presented their plans.
“The Coalition believes that the 105,840,000 being spent by the Dominica Labour Party and to accommodate the Prime Minister could fund the following housing initiatives in this Manifesto”.
So the Coalition favours the same handouts and coolouts that many of its members have spent the last years publicly crying against. Ok.
Did you read the document?
What about education for people funding their education giving scholarships to study so they can return and better the economy with jobs, bringing back sports like cricket, athletics basketball, football, love by many for example on top, agriculture manufacturing sector needs big improvement we have resources and not putting them to use. what about the senior citizens they are crucial to society what are your plans for them and the working man was well. As a youth a manifesto by any party is worthless cause all politicians just look out for themselves like the current government does. That manifesto needs more revising.
Developing a Youth Empowerment Strategy with prioritises on sports and physical activity and building an Olympic size swimming pool and sports complex
The Coalition is committed to meeting the United Nations’ recommended allocation of 1% of Dominica’s GDP on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths.
Providing support to teachers in obtaining their first educational degrees by commissioning the development of a specific online educational resource library and study materials.
Introducing a Points-based system for awarding educational scholarships based on academic excellence and the family’s ability to pay or contribute financially and publishing the criteria for awarding scholarships.
JUST IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
So if they are presenting their manifesto together how can they be independent? Just asking for a friend .
They never were “Independent.” None of them!
I assume they called the document a “coalition of Independent Candidates” because they share some ideas and principles but retain their overall independence.
I hope that helps your friend.
These independent candidates are taking themselves too seriously.
After this phony election, to be an idiot, and to be a sitting member of the Dominica parliament would be indistinguishable.
But how come those fellas ready in 1 month and UWP doe ready in 3 years.So who Paskal and Bazil telling spoil ballot,it must be supporters of team unity.Because Labour not spoiling no ballot.
Clown you will hush your mouth soon …