Parliament of Dominica

Dominica operates under a parliamentary representative democratic republic system, where governance is carried out through executive and legislative authority. The Parliament of Dominica plays a central role in legislation, national governance, and policy oversight, ensuring that laws and policies align with the country’s constitutional principles. The legislative body approves budgets, enacts laws, and monitors the executive branch’s activities.

Over the years, Dominica’s Parliament has evolved in response to shifting political, economic, and social landscapes. Parliament has shaped the country’s political and legal framework from its colonial-era legislative councils to its modern post-independence governance system.

Historical Development the Parliament of Dominica

Dominica’s Parliament has undergone several transformations from the colonial era to modern governance, shaping its role as the legislative backbone of the country’s democracy.

Colonial Legislative Beginnings

The roots of Dominica’s parliamentary system can be traced back to 1770, when the British established a Legislative Assembly under colonial rule. This assembly functioned under the governor’s authority, ensuring that British colonial laws were implemented while allowing some local participation in governance.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Dominica saw a shift towards greater local legislative influence, culminating in the West Indies Act of 1967, which granted Dominica full self-governance in internal affairs while remaining an associated state of the United Kingdom.

Path to Full Independence

On November 3, 1978, Dominica gained full independence, becoming a sovereign republic within the Commonwealth. The House of Assembly became the primary legislative body, overseeing law-making and national governance.

Structure of Dominica’s Parliament

The Parliament of Dominica is a unicameral legislature, meaning it has only one legislative chamber—the House of Assembly. The Constitution of Dominica outlines the composition and functions of Parliament, ensuring a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Composition of the House of Assembly

The House of Assembly consists of elected representatives, appointed senators, and key legislative officials who ensure the smooth functioning of the country’s governance.

• 21 Elected Members (Representatives): These members are directly elected by the people, representing constituencies across the island. They serve five-year terms, and their primary role is to propose, debate, and vote on legislation.
• Up to 9 Senators: Senators may be either appointed by the President or elected by the House. Typically, five senators are appointed based on the Prime Minister’s advice, and four are appointed on the Leader of the Opposition’s advice.
• The Speaker of the House: If the Speaker is chosen from outside the House, they become an additional member, bringing the total number to 32. The Speaker is responsible for presiding over parliamentary sessions, maintaining order, and ensuring legislative procedures are followed.
• The Attorney General: Serves as an ex officio member, providing legal guidance on parliamentary matters.

Roles and Responsibilities of Parliament

The House of Assembly carries out key legislative and governance functions, ensuring that laws align with the national constitution and serve the country’s best interests.

• Law-making: Parliament debates and enacts legislation that governs various aspects of life, including economic policies, social welfare, and legal rights.
• Budget Approval: Parliament oversees the national budget, ensuring that government spending is transparent and aligned with national priorities.
• Government Oversight: Through parliamentary debates, committees, and question periods, members hold the executive accountable for its actions.

Legislative Process and Governance in Dominica

The process of passing laws and overseeing governance in Dominica follows a structured framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional principles.

From drafting to enactment, a bill must pass through several stages in Parliament before it becomes law, ensuring rigorous scrutiny and adherence to constitutional requirements.

1. First Reading: A bill is introduced to Parliament and made available for review by members.
2. Second Reading: Members debate the bill’s merits, propose amendments, and discuss potential impacts.
3. Committee Stage: The bill is examined in detail, and necessary changes are made.
4. Third Reading: A final vote is taken before the bill is sent for presidential assent.
5. Presidential Assent: The President of Dominica signs the bill into law, making it official legislation.

This process ensures that legislation is reviewed from multiple perspectives, preventing hasty or unjust legal changes.

The Relationship Between the Executive and Parliament

The executive and legislative branches must collaborate to ensure laws and policies reflect the best interests of the Dominican people while upholding constitutional principles.

The President’s Role

• Serves as the Head of State and is elected by the House of Assembly.
• Gives assent to bills, ensuring they are in accordance with constitutional principles.

The Prime Minister and Cabinet

• The Prime Minister is the Head of Government, leading the Cabinet of Ministers.
• Ministers are appointed from elected representatives and senators, ensuring policy implementation aligns with national laws.

The Cabinet reports to Parliament, ensuring government accountability and transparency.

Recent Developments in Dominica’s Parliament

As the country evolves, Dominica’s Parliament continues to introduce reforms and policies that enhance governance and ensure democratic accountability.

Electoral Reforms and Democratic Evolution

In recent years, Dominica’s Parliament has introduced electoral reforms aimed at improving voter registration and transparency in elections. In March 2025, three major electoral reform bills were passed:

1. Registration of Electors Bill (2024) – Ensures proper voter registration and ID verification.
2. House of Assembly Elections Bill (2024) – Modernizes electoral processes and management.
3. Electoral Commission Bill (2024) – Strengthens the autonomy of the Electoral Commission.

These reforms aim to enhance the democratic process by ensuring free and fair elections.

Recent General Elections

The most recent elections held in December 2022 saw the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) win 19 seats, while Independent Candidates secured 2 seats. Notably, a record 10 women were elected, marking a significant step toward greater gender representation in governance.

Final Thoughts on Dominica’s Parliament

Dominica’s Parliament remains the cornerstone of the nation’s democracy, ensuring that laws, policies, and governance are transparent and accountable. Its structure, legislative process, and oversight functions ensure that citizens’ voices are represented in government. As Dominica continues to evolve, its Parliament will remain a crucial institution in maintaining stability, democracy, and national progress.