The fallout from Dominica’s recent electoral reform protests continues to deepen as several individuals, including known public figures, face charges under the colonial-era Riot Act. Among those arrested in the latest round are Hector ‘Spags’ John, Daniel Lugay, Paula Celestine, Samuel Durand, JnoBaptiste Charles, Bernard Moreau, Imran Joseph, Siri Defoe, Clementina Mitchel and Moses Prosper—all accused of participating in what the police have labeled an unlawful assembly.
Attorney Ronald Charles, representing several of the accused, has condemned the arrests, calling them “a dangerous misuse of the law to silence citizens.” Charles questioned the legality and proportionality of invoking the Riot Act—a statute dating back to 1897—to justify the detainment of peaceful demonstrators.
These individuals are not criminals. They are Dominican citizens exercising their constitutional right to express dissent over a matter of national concern. To invoke the Riot Act against them is not just legally questionable—it is morally unacceptable.
Attorney Ronald Charles
The United Workers Party (UWP) has also denounced the actions of law enforcement. UWP President Lennox Linton described the arrests as “state-sponsored persecution,” alleging that the government is using law enforcement to intimidate and punish its critics.
The protests, which took place near the Parliament building during debate on electoral reform bills, were not authorised by police under the Public Order Act. Still, opposition figures maintain the gatherings were peaceful and constitutionally protected.
Observers have noted that the use of dated public order laws in modern-day Dominica raises larger questions about civil liberties, protest rights, and the boundaries of state power.
“We are witnessing a dangerous moment,” said one legal analyst. “This is no longer just about reform legislation—it is about the right of citizens to express disagreement without fear of retribution.”
The arrested individuals are expected to appear in court in the coming days. Attorneys representing them have vowed to challenge the constitutionality of the charges and demand their immediate release.
This article is copyright © 2025 DOM767
