People’s electoral rights are sacrosanct, says Dominica’s PM Dr Roosevelt Skerrit

Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of the commonwealth of Dominica has termed people’s electoral rights as sacrosanct.

The PM Skerrit expressed these views while addressing Dominica Business Forum Discussion on Electoral Reform called to address the concerns of some people, especially the business community.

PM Skerrit stated, the government is committed to protect the electoral rights of its citizens. All the residents can claim this fundamental right being citizens of Dominica, if they fulfill all conditions even if they are currently living outside Dominica. 

The Prime Minister while acknowledging differing views regarding voting rights of people living abroad underlined, “No doubt some people are objecting voting rights of those who are not living in Dominica, but the government is very determined to protect this fundamental right of its every citizen without any bias due to place of residence”.

“I am aware that many among you are against voting rights to citizens who are currently living in any foreign land, I also want to assure to all that no one will be denied of his electoral right, however we have to adheres some legal rules and regulation to address issues effectively” stated PM Skerrit in his address at forum discussion.

The PM, while advocating the need for a referendum, urged people to show their resistance for the voting rights of citizens. Moreover, if the majority is against this decision then the government will certainly consider this demand to deny voting rights to Dominicans that are living abroad.

He further reiterated that it would be very wrong and unethical if the government directly went to parliament and passed any law to ban voting rights of these people. This will be considered as refusing their contribution towards home country Dominica especially in economic development through remittances, investments etc.

At the same time speaking further about the deep emotional connection for Dominicans living abroad, the PM said this will be an emotional setback for their love for the homeland which should not happen at any cost.

PM Skerrit reiterated protection of the legal rights of all the citizens, either living in or away from the country.