Dominica has always been unique in many ways. We are the only island in the Caribbean with remnants of pure indigenous people; we are sandwiched between two French islands (extensions of France); we can boast of several intellectuals all over the world in leadership positions; shamefully, we’ve been associated with corruption in many forms, international gangsters and dictators who we vehemently defend; we are the Nature Island of the Caribbean, among others. I said all that to say, we are more than what we see or believe!
Granted, the UWP was not as ‘strong’ and organized as it was in its heyday. Observers have accused the ruling party of manipulating the system to their advantage.
But would the electorate be satisfied with the DLP’s performance and management of the political climate on island? While the natural overnight drift from the DLP to the UWP and from the UWP to the DLP continues the majority thinks that the UWP is on the rise again. Crossing the floor is not considered a high status move from a party’s point of view.
In Dominica, it’s always considered a personal payback. It was a rocky start for their leader Lennox Linton and although he’s still not liked by some he seems to be coming to his own. Criticism is rife that the Prime Minister has some dictatorial tendencies based on his decision making methods and practices.
The radical decision made by the DLP leader is a risky one, with regards to 13 constituency contenders. In my opinion, the move could be extremely wise or extremely dumb. The DLP has not been very vocal like in previous election seasons. Is that a sign of weakness, less support or fading confidence? Political strategists study voting and other trends and the behaviour of voters. Interestingly, a name that stands out is Crispin Gregoire who switched support from the DLP to the UWP and is presumably their chief strategist.
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