Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has firmly defended the ruling Dominica Labour Party’s (DLP) decision to introduce electoral reform, insisting the party will not allow opposition forces to “weaken” the country. His remarks came ahead of the DLP’s 70th anniversary celebrations on June 1.
In a statement addressing recent political tensions, Skerrit accused opposition groups of feigning concern for democracy to undermine the government’s efforts.
“We started electoral reform. We brought in international experts. We put money behind the process. We made it happen. So do not let anyone twist the truth. We are not afraid of reform. We are ready for it. We invited it. But we will not allow confusion and lies to weaken this country,” Skerrit said.
The government’s electoral reform legislation was approved by Parliament in March amid protests from opposition supporters who criticized the process for lacking transparency. Police clashed with demonstrators, using tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.
The reforms include three key bills: the Electoral Commission Bill 2024, House of Assembly (Elections) Bill 2024, and Registration of Electors Bill 2024. These bills were introduced late last year following recommendations from former Caribbean Court of Justice President Sir Dennis Byron’s June 2023 report.
During parliamentary debate, opposition legislator Anthony Charles broke ranks to support the legislation, emphasizing the long-standing need for electoral reform in Dominica.
“I stand for the bills to be passed,” Charles said to applause. “This is not about political parties showing how strong they are… This is about democracy.”
Among the reforms, the Registration of Electors Act mandates a 12-month voter confirmation period requiring valid identification. Overseas Dominicans must reconfirm their registration in person on the island. New Voter Identification Cards will include photographs and advanced security features.
The legislation also strengthens the Electoral Commission’s independence by establishing an Electoral Commission Fund and empowering it to oversee free and fair elections. It introduces technology for voter registration and record management, plans for electronic voting, equal media access, and enhanced accessibility for persons with disabilities.
Skerrit called on Dominicans to unite around the reforms, urging supporters not to allow the opposition to weaponize the process for confusion.
“There comes a time in every nation’s story when the people must rise, not in anger but in purpose. Not in fear, but in unity. Dominica, that time is now,” he said.
“We are a nation rooted in service, tested by time, and proven by our ability to rise, again and again. When others falter, we endure. When others divide, we unite. That is the Dominica we know.”
Skerrit ended with a call to arms for the DLP ahead of the anniversary, underscoring the party’s resolve.
“Labour will not be bullied. Labour will not be silenced. Labour will not retreat. June 1 is more than just a date on a calendar. It is a declaration—a signal to Dominica, to the region, to the world, that this party is not just alive, it is mobilized,” he said.
“June 1 is about pride, protection, and proving that this country belongs to the people—and the people stand with Labour.”
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