In the humdrum of everyday life, every individual and every group of persons need objects of hope to sustain them on the journey towards their particular vision of ultimate fulfillment. This is no less true for a nation. Forty-one years ago our nation, Dominica, took the major step towards self- determination out of a conviction that we have what it takes to chart a course towards development in keeping with our deepest sentiments regarding our needs as a people. A retrospective glance at the socio-cultural and socio-political climate of 1978, one is certain to conclude that it was a great risk.
In addition to the turbulent season which the Nation had set itself, the breaking from the “safe” administrative and defense ties with the Queen, came Hurricane David in its first ten months. It was no less than a Baptism by fire, as put in biblical parlance. However, here we are, forty-one years hence, having traversed countless trials and challenges, whether by natural causes, like Misses Erika and Maria, or those caused by our many human inadequacies. Thus, the applicability of this year’s National Theme: “Saluting Resilience and Rejuvenation …Two Years On” (or rather 41 Years On).“
Every year we gather as a nation around this historic occasion to celebrate achievements and to recommit ourselves to nation building with the tacit intention to avoid the errors of the past. In that regard, therefore, every Independence celebration is at one and the same time a moment of festivity and reflection.
This year, 2019, is of particular significance, in that, we are on the eve of another very important event in the life of our people. I am referring to the upcoming General Elections, in which every eligible Dominican voter is afforded the opportunity and privilege of having a say in the governance of this beloved country. Like Independence it is one of the greatest symbols of the maturity of a nation. As such, therefore, we are duty bound to act accordingly. While enjoying the full benefit of this festive moment, I wish to invite every patriotic national, to take some time to ponder deeply on the future of our country, as it prepares to engage in this “sacred act”.
Therefore, I challenge all citizens: Government, Parliamentary Opposition, the religious community, the Media Association and the entire civil society to take a conscientious look at the Election Code issued by the Dominica Christian Council and which has served throughout the years of Independence, to guide the conduct of the various persons and groups during this pre-election period. It is as follows:
This article is copyright © 2019 DOM767
