NDP should explain their position on proposed Constitution

24.APR.09

Editor: On Saturday, April 18, 2009, I listened to the “Open Mike” programme on Nice Radio – substitute for Letter From the Ground. I found it very interesting. Lots of information, mis-information and partisan vomit.

Please permit me to raise four points in response to different callers:

1. P. John wants to be able to agree with every single section in the constitution or he would vote NO and urge others to do likewise.{{more}}

I ask P. John: Where in the world would he find a Constitution where all citizens agree with everything contained therein?

2. Mr. Eustace said that they do not necessarily agree with everything passed in the Committee of the Whole (in Parliament). Mr. Eustace should know that is the process, regardless to who holds the reigns of power and holds majority in the House. That is what democracy is all about.

I find it irresponsible for Mr. Eustace to urge the people to vote NO just because 5 citizens, who happen to be seated on the Opposition benches in Parliament, decide they disagree with certain sections in the proposed Constitution. Mr. Eustace should take his objections to the people across the country, inform and educate and propose alternatives. Don’t just tell them to vote NO because the NDP took that position. Give them reasons to vote NO;

3. I agree that the Homecoming Project is not effectively promoted at home and in the Diaspora. I have expressed my views on this to Ambassador John. I also suggested ways in which this can be improved. However, we should not see this project as being connected to the Referendum on the Constitution. I believe the timing is mere coincidence. After all, October 27, 2009, will be 30 years since we gained independence from Britain. I know that for a fact. I was there as a member of the First Independent Parliament of SVG;

4. To the caller from Union Island: A large number of Vincentians living abroad are property owners at home and do pay property and other taxes as well as bank loans. Many are abroad to make a better living to help support parents and children at home. Remittances from Vincentians abroad account for a sizeable portion of the annual budget of SVG. Those remittances help to provide you with many of the basic services and amenities you enjoy daily and take for granted.

It is well known that I am a life-long supporter of the Labour Party… no other political party has thus given me a reason to change that. But when it comes to the governance and the development of my country, I am Vincentian first… even Williams after.

Wade Williams