Dominican-born Justice Dr. Irving André has condemned the police response to the March 19 protest, describing it as an act of intimidation and an attempt to suppress freedom of assembly and expression. He emphasized that the right to protest is internationally recognized, especially when citizens are raising legitimate concerns about the fairness of elections in Dominica. Dr Andre’ criticized the newly passed electoral Bills, stating that they promote voter fraud. Instead of totally re-registering voters in Dominica, the new law proposes a "reconfirmation" process. This would allow individuals who have lived outside Dominica for over a decade to reaffirm their place on the voters' list. Andre’ argues that this move effectively legitimizes electoral manipulation. Dr. Justice, Irving Andre.
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Attorney Cara Shillingford has raised concerns over bail conditions that restrict defendants from speaking to the media. She emphasized that the constitution guarantees fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, as part of a social contract between the government and the people. Referring to cases involving the arrest of protesters, Shillingford questioned why authorities would prevent defendants from discussing matters of public interest, asking, “What is it that the government doesn’t want the people to know?” In Dominica, constitutional rights guarantee freedom of assembly as part of universal human rights, according to Shillingford. She argued that the individuals facing court proceedings are leaders whose work includes participating in public gatherings. By bringing them before the court, she suggested, implies these leaders should no longer engage in public life. Attorney Cara Shillingford.
Attorney at Law, Earl Williams is disgruntled by the intimidatory tactics of the Skerrit-led DLP Government toward the citizens of Dominica over the past two decades. The latest attack of militarized force against Dominican citizens is the mass arrest and charge of unlawful assembly of over 11 Dominicans by the Police Force. For the protest action taken by citizens on March 19th in the vicinity of Victoria Street in Roseau and in Salisbury. Dominicans protested against the passing of DLP administration’s incomplete Electoral Reform Bills, which were deficient of three major components to reduce taints in Dominica’s Election process, such as: Equal access to the media for all political parties, Campaign Finance Reform, and the complete re-registration of the voters list. All of which are strong grounds to warrant mass protest in any other democratic country. Attorney at Law, Earl Williams.
After being hurt in a car accident on Goodwill Road, close to the Do It Center, on March 29, 2025, Lindy Madir, 27, of Massacre, passed away. Police reports state that the accident happened at around 11:00 am and involved two cars as well as a motorcycle. Donald Massicot, a 34-year-old Kalinago Territory resident, operated the motorcycle with Madir as a pillion passenger.
According to additional information, the investigating officer, Corporal Bonnie P. under Sergeant Bellot E's supervision. visited the scene of the accident and started investigating. After being taken to the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) with serious injuries, Madir was evaluated by medical professionals and declared deceased. His remains are presently being kept in the hospital morgue while an autopsy is conducted. An investigation into the incident is still in progress. On this year’s International Day of Zero Waste, UN Secretary-General Antonio Gutiérrez highlighted the fashion and textile industry as a major contributor to environmental harm. He emphasized that textile production relies heavily on thousands of chemicals, many of which are dangerous to both people and the planet. The industry also depletes essential resources, such as land and water, while emitting significant amounts of greenhouse gases, further fueling the climate crisis. Gutierrez also pointed out that there is reason for optimism, as consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable practices. Key initiatives are bringing together businesses, industry associations, and civil society to drive sustainability in the fashion sector. UN Secretary-General Antonio Gutiérrez.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM)formally addressed a letter from Dr Thomson Fontaine, Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), regarding Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit's decision to place the Regional Security System (RSS) on standby prior to a planned peaceful protest in Dominica.
In a response dated March 18, 2025, CARICOM Chair Mia Amor Mottley, acknowledged Dr. Fontaine's concerns and explained that the Prime Minister’s action was a precautionary measure, informed by past experiences with protests. Mottley clarified that the decision to place the RSS on standby was intended to safeguard national security, in line with the objectives of the RSS Treaty, though the system was not ultimately activated. Mottley also reaffirmed CARICOM's strong support for citizens' rights to peacefully assemble, protest, and petition, as outlined in the Charter of Civil Society. However, she emphasized that these rights are subject to the legal frameworks of individual member states, including the requirement for police authorization for public demonstrations. She noted that the protest scheduled for March 19, 2025, did not fulfill the necessary legal criteria for approval. In conclusion, CARICOM reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic expression, provided it adheres to the laws and regulations of its member countries. Attorney at Law, Ronald Charles condemns the intimidation tactics and persecution campaign of the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, against the people of Dominica as wicked and wrong. Dominicans took to the streets in opposition to the DLP administration’s approval of incomplete Electoral Reform Bills, which lacked three crucial elements needed to enhance the integrity of the country’s electoral system. These missing components included equal media access for all political parties, campaign finance reform, and a comprehensive re-registration of the voters list. In any other democratic nation, such shortcomings would be sufficient grounds for widespread protests. Charles reveals that the riot act of 1897 being used by police to charge Dominicans who protested the passing of three Controversial Electoral Reform Labour Party Bills, on March 19, 2025, is outdated, unconstitutional, and promotes slavery tactics. Attorney at Law, Ronald Charles.
Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty are set to host the 2ndAnnual Afro-Caribbean 2025 Edition – Fashion Time-Travel Event on April 12, 2025, at the Anchorage Hotel. This year’s theme, “The First Settlers,” will explore Dominica’s cultural history through fashion, storytelling, spoken word, and performances. A special highlight includes a performance by Michele Henderson and a runway showcase featuring traditional and modern Dominican fashion. Event founder Kimara Matthew describes the show as more than just fashion—it’s a cultural movement celebrating Dominica’s heritage. Tickets are available for EC$100 (advance), EC$80 (early bird), and US$25 (Pay-Per-View). They can be purchased at Blossom Dominica HQ in Roseau or online via Shopdm Pay. Fashion Designer, Owner of Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty, and Event founder, Kimara Matthew.
The Ministry of Health is urging Dominicans to remain vigilant against the influenza Virus, as Dominica’s health professionals have observed a huge uptick in the spread of the Influenza virus. National Epidemiologist Dr. Shalauddin Ahmed, advises Dominicans to boost hygiene practices throughout their daily lives, wash and sanitize hands and surfaces frequently, practice proper hygiene etiquette, eat and drink healthy, and take various medicines to boost the immune system. He spoke to the media at a press briefing held at the Government Financial Building in Roseau on Friday. National Epidemiologist Dr. Shalauddin Ahmed.
National Epidemiologist Dr. Shalauddin Ahmed has confirmed a suspected case of leptospirosis on the island. Preliminary rapid test results have returned positive for the disease, but health officials are awaiting confirmation from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), following an initial test sent to the agency for further analysis. National Epidemiologist Dr. Shalauddin Ahmed.
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