From among the customary voices debating Montserrat’s Constitutional Order comes yet another, the University of the West Indies (UWI) emphasizing the important of the involvement of the people of Montserrat in this debate..

According to the Resident Tutor at the University of the West Indies Open Campus, Gracelyn Cassell, the university has called for positive debate on the new draft Constitution Order for Montserrat.

Joining the ranks of common advocates of this very position like the voices of Chedmond Browne and Alaric ‘JahRed’ Lynch, Ms. Cassell identified the fact that as members of a free and democratic society Montserratians need to exercise the rights to which they are entitled, and as such should make an effort to read the document and make meaningful contributions and suggestions.

Futile efforts were the results of trying to locate the document to which Ms. Cassell referred. In fact, when questioning some of the general population of Montserrat, it became evident that not only is an educational campaign on this issue a necessity, but also most were not sure what particular document they were suppose to be reading.

One man anonymously pointed out that his confusion lies in the fact that he is not sure if he should reread the existing Constitutional Order of Montserrat or if there was a new document actually being considered to replace the existing Constitution Order. He reminded those in Authority in Montserrat of the need for ensuring that the stupidest among us can understand and contribute to our own Constitution, if that is what we are going to end up with.

According to reports, Ms. Cassell says she would like to see a “constructive exchange of ideas and not character assassinations.”

Nerrissa Golden of the Government Information Systems (GIS) reports that Montserrat is presently working on a new constitution, as the previous one was done in 1989, and does not take into consideration many of the new innovations that would allow for greater involvement in the island’s governing from elected officials.

The Constitution Implementation and Advice Committee (CIAC) recently launched an education campaign to gain public feedback before the document goes to the Legislative Council in late September for debate.

As report by the Government of Montserrat, the Constitution Implementation and Advice Committee (CIAC) have begun a campaign to educate the general public about the contents of the proposed draft Constitution Order for Montserrat.
While this is not a new topic or newly emerging issues, Montserrat’s Constitutional Order has been a contradictory debate for some decades prior to the reemergence of the Chairman of the CAIAC, Mr. Alaric Taylor.

According to Montserrat’s Government Infomration Unit’s, Nerissa Golden, Alric “Jim” Taylor make every effort to connect with the public through various forums and media.

There are those elite members of Montserrat’s public that are not particularly convince that enough is being done and what is being done is just the bare minimum, enough to prove that an effort was made.

One such individual is Mr. Chedmond Browne. Mr. Browne a former member of Government has gone on the record time and again employing Montserratians to take this issue of the Constitution seriously. The first point to consider, as recited many times by Chedmond, is that Montserratians do not now nor have not ever had a constitution.

A notorious opposition member in his time, Chedmond Browne points out one fact so obvious when considered it may cause one to feel a bit ignorant. Mr. Browne claims that the island of Montserrat has never had a constitution but have been coercered into accepting a constitutional order created by the British with their best intend at heart, not the Montserratian.

Alaric Lynch, another renowned advocate for the proper legal application and process insists that not enough is being down to ensure that the most uneducated of Montserrat’s society understands the fundamental concepts and rights associated with a constitution and the distinct difference between a constitution order and a constitution made by the people for the people.

Following the decision in the Legislative Council in June to give an additional three months for public debate and discussion, the CAIAC committee was asked to lead the education campaign on the new draft document.
In July, ZJB Radio Montserrat, in collaboration with the Government Information Unit (GIU), began airing a series of infomercials called “Your Constitution Minute”.

As reported, these spots have now been converted to YouTube videos with the text and information on how persons can share their views on the new laws. The videos are available on the Government of Montserrat website at www.gov.ms and on the Spirit of Montserrat fan page on Facebook.

Chairman Taylor, along with representatives from the Attorney General’s office including Parliamentary counsel, Ms. Barbara Vargas, will be part of panel which will lead weekly town hall meetings.

The first town hall session will be in Salem at the Shiloh Pentecostal Church.

The Government of Montserrat also adds that other meetings are scheduled to be held in St. Peters, Brades and Look Out communities every Thursday in August.

All of the meetings will be recorded for replay on radio and the local access channel on Cable TV.

However, the Government Information Unit (GIU) encourages persons to download a copy of the draft constitution order at www.constitution.gov.ms. Copies have also been made available at local health centres, churches and the public library. A personal copy can be requested at the Office of the Chief Minister or the Deputy Governor’s office.

The debate on the new constitution is expected to resume in late September.

Who is this Reuben T Meade?

Spent 5 years in Jamaica 1973-1978 as a student and teacher; two years in Canada 1978-1980 as a student; 7 years in Barbados 1972-73 as a student and 1982-88 with the Caribbean Development Bank; returned to Montserrat and worked as an Administrative Cadet in the Office of the Chief Minister and on return in 1988 was Finance Manager of the Montserrat Sea Island Cotton Company before taking up the post of Director of Economic Development in 1989. In 1989 the massive destruction in Montserrat by hurricane Hugo and my management of the recovery effort caused me to be offered a medal of merit and a Certificate of Honour for my management of the recovery effort. In 1991 I asked the question of the people in a newspaper advertisement – Do You Want this Man? We formed the National Progressive Party contested and won the 1991 general elections offering management skills to the redevelopment of Montserrat under the slogan – give youth a chance. What were some of our major achievements?

· The infrastructure was rebuilt – a new Government headquarters and Parliament buildings;
· A completely renovated hospital both old Glendon and new Glendon to include proper dental facilities;
· School buildings rebuilt;
· Police Stations rebuilt;
· The Plymouth jetty designed, financed and constructed;
· Expansion and rebuilding of the Corkhill to Plymouth main road;
· Island wide cleanup;
· Increased tourist numbers from 10,000 in 1990/91 to over 40,000 in 1994/95;
· Expansion of electronic manufacturing to increase the labour force in that industry from less than 10 in 1991 to over 350 workers by 1995;
· Negotiate for and build a rice processing plant which generated over $1m in tax revenue to Government in 1995 creating over 100 jobs.
· Development of a major sporting complex for basketball and netball totally locally financed;
· Trained many young people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity in a range of skills at BOCES in Oswego, New York.
· International mountain biking races; International participation in around the island road relay sponsored by MILO;
· Saved the Bank of Montserrat from collapse thus making sure that the poor depositors did not loose their savings. We now have a stronger and healthier Bank of Montserrat.

Montserrat was on the move and in less than five years the economy was moving on a path to prosperity. Check the facts. We did it because we were capable of getting the job done. The volcano without warning attacked us and had we not fought against the British Government who tried its best to get us off the island, we would not have been here arguing. They promised tent like structure without floor but with outdoor pit latrines and outdoor showers to house 1,000 persons and I refused those structures as an insult to the people of Montserrat. I got assistance from the rest of the region and the Caribbean Development Bank for funds to build more decent housing and we got the wooden family units which people use up to today. In 1997 another government accepted the unacceptable Davy Hill houses.

What of the talk against Reuben T Meade –

· In 1991 they said I had a cloud over my head – The people said: we believe in Reuben T Meade – I led NPP to victory at the polls.
· In 1996 the claim was that if I was voted out of office the volcano would stop. NPP lost the election, I won my seat. Did the volcano stop?
· In 2001 same old same old same old.
· In 2006 I had enough Roselyn Cassell-Sealy took over leadership of the party and it was renamed MCAP they changed the attack to Roselyn.
· 2009, I am back as leader and the attacks are worse than ever. Why? Because they see a wind of change with a huge support for MCAP so they are out for my blood.

Ask yourself the questions –
· are they afraid MCAP will take over the government and continue the good work which we have shown that we are capable of?
· Are they afraid that we will stabilize the economy and create more work for the people?
· Why have they not challenged my ability to do the work – never once have they said I am incapable of doing the things that are necessary to rescue and rebuild Montserrat.
Instead, what are they trying to do? Destroy the good reputation of Montserrat by claiming that its leaders are all corrupt for the following reasons:

Local politicians getting over 100% housing grants ahead of more needy applicants – ask that of MLP.

Former minister while being a Minister in charge getting two 100% grant funding for at least two houses which are currently rented. Ask that of the MLP.

Which MLP candidate continued drawing payment for years from a Union which they claim I killed while the members got little or nothing? Ask that of the MLP.
A wife of a Contractor and co-owner who while being a Minister being involved in the construction contracts with Government – ask that of the MRP. Also ask them how many persons either have won court cases against their company for not completing their work but spending all of the money or how many suppliers and workers they still owe on contract works, including government contracts.

A candidate who is on trial for major fraud with a case currently before the courts – ask that of the independent candidates.

Enough said.

What are the new charges against me? They claim that I did not declare my interest in a company I formed with a friend in 1997 to assist in the rebuilding of Montserrat houses. It is public knowledge that I was part of that company as a Manager, shareholder and Director. In March 2008 on becoming a Minister I wrote to the Speaker and the Governor indicating that I had given up my interest in the company as Manager, Director and Shareholder. The Registrar of Companies records will show that in 2008 the returns of L&M Construction did not include Reuben T Meade as a shareholder or Director. L&M’s owner has informed the authorities that I am not employed by the company as a manager.
In a radio statement in August 2009 while responding to a caller I indicated that I was a Manager of L&M, but did not indicate that I was currently a manager. This is the basis of the continued distractions of those who do not wish to see Montserrat progress.

Where do we go from here? Let us focus on the issues and not be distracted by those who do not have the interest of you the people at heart. Judge them by their history – has anyone of them been imprisoned in the United States? The two brothers have been so imprisoned.

The economy of Montserrat like that of the rest of the Caribbean and the world is still undergoing a major recession. We must immediately start the process of planning a way forward to cushion the shock while at the same time creating work and growth. MCAP will have an economic roadmap produced and discussed with the public before presentation to DfID within 3 months of getting into elected office.

MCAP will commence the HOME Initiative which was being developed by the Ministry for housing. Through this programme we will inject $7m into a soft mortgage scheme to allow for qualified borrowers to obtain affordable mortgages. A special allocation of $1.5m is being set aside for Davy Hill to rebuild some of the totally inadequate houses in that community. This programme will start within 3 months because the Director of Housing and the PS in that Ministry have already done the necessary work to allow it to start quickly. This is an effort to create a substantial number of construction related jobs to include truckers, block manufacturers and other suppliers of materials. MCAP will.
The Port Construction Design work has started to allow for the projected start of construction in late 2010 to early 2011. This not only has a larger jetty but includes a breakwater. We will find the means to build it and not make the same mistakes that were made in building an airport which cannot meet the minimum needs of a recovering economy.

The design of the Hospital reconstruction will commence next year to allow for planned funding in 2011.

We will introduce a medical benefits scheme to allow persons to obtain the most affordable medical care as we can supply.
Consultation have been ongoing with a medical school to try to get a properly certified medical school to be located here again to create jobs and other income generating opportunities.

We will work to obtain more affordable air fares and connections from Antigua to Montserrat. We can already see the day tour fares from Montserrat to Antigua return at $270. It can be done and we will continue working at developing a proper airline service to Montserrat. Once properly marketed the day tour market from Antigua to Montserrat will again be rebuilt to create jobs for taxi and tour operators; souvenir shops and restaurants.
We already have pre-project approval on the Government Office buildings. Already, local architects are at work designing these buildings to allow for tendering to take place by the end of this year for work to commence early in 2010.
We also have pre-project approval on the major roads rebuilding project to allow for the start of surveys and designs to be completed. We will expect to start actual work on the actual construction in a few months.

The legislative programme for the remainder of 2009 must include not only the completion of the integrity in public office bill but also minimum wage legislation; consumer legislation; housing legislation; road traffic legislation as priorities. However, it is important for all to participate in the discussions of these bills before they go to second reading in the Legislative Council.
We must also tackle a host of education and welfare issues and we will.
In closing, I urge you not to be distracted by persons who have personal vendettas. Do not encourage them to drag the name of this country into the mud. Do not encourage them to stop progress and job creation. How do you do that? On September the 8th place an X in the box to vote for all the persons on the ballot box with a yellow background -

Herman Francis
Easton Taylor-Farrell
Leroy Greaves
Charles Kirnon
Reuben T Meade
David Osborne
Colin Riley
Roselyn Cassell-Sealy
Jermaine Wade

Do not waste your vote. Vote for a Government. Vote for a team that is well organized, managed and have been together as a party since 1991. Vote all nine for team MCAP only one way you voting. Do not let people tell you to split your votes that will only cause confusion.
Thank you and GOD Bless.

Spent 5 years in Jamaica 1973-1978 as a student and teacher; two years in Canada 1978-1980 as a student; 7 years in Barbados 1972-73 as a student and 1982-88 with the Caribbean Development Bank; returned to Montserrat and worked as an Administrative Cadet in the Office of the Chief Minister and on return in 1988 was Finance Manager of the Montserrat Sea Island Cotton Company before taking up the post of Director of Economic Development in 1989. In 1989 the massive destruction in Montserrat by hurricane Hugo and my management of the recovery effort caused me to be offered a medal of merit and a Certificate of Honour for my management of the recovery effort. In 1991 I asked the question of the people in a newspaper advertisement – Do You Want this Man? We formed the National Progressive Party contested and won the 1991 general elections offering management skills to the redevelopment of Montserrat under the slogan – give youth a chance. What were some of our major achievements?

· The infrastructure was rebuilt – a new Government headquarters and Parliament buildings;

· A completely renovated hospital both old Glendon and new Glendon to include proper dental facilities;

· School buildings rebuilt;

· Police Stations rebuilt;

· The Plymouth jetty designed, financed and constructed;

· Expansion and rebuilding of the Corkhill to Plymouth main road;

· Island wide cleanup;

· Increased tourist numbers from 10,000 in 1990/91 to over 40,000 in 1994/95;

· Expansion of electronic manufacturing to increase the labour force in that industry from less than 10 in 1991 to over 350 workers by 1995;

· Negotiate for and build a rice processing plant which generated over $1m in tax revenue to Government in 1995 creating over 100 jobs.

· Development of a major sporting complex for basketball and netball totally locally financed;

· Trained many young people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity in a range of skills at BOCES in Oswego, New York.

· International mountain biking races; International participation in around the island road relay sponsored by MILO;

· Saved the Bank of Montserrat from collapse thus making sure that the poor depositors did not loose their savings. We now have a stronger and healthier Bank of Montserrat.

Montserrat was on the move and in less than five years the economy was moving on a path to prosperity. Check the facts. We did it because we were capable of getting the job done. The volcano without warning attacked us and had we not fought against the British Government who tried its best to get us off the island, we would not have been here arguing. They promised tent like structure without floor but with outdoor pit latrines and outdoor showers to house 1,000 persons and I refused those structures as an insult to the people of Montserrat. I got assistance from the rest of the region and the Caribbean Development Bank for funds to build more decent housing and we got the wooden family units which people use up to today. In 1997 another government accepted the unacceptable Davy Hill houses.

What of the talk against Reuben T Meade –

· In 1991 they said I had a cloud over my head – The people said: we believe in Reuben T Meade – I led NPP to victory at the polls.

· In 1996 the claim was that if I was voted out of office the volcano would stop. NPP lost the election, I won my seat. Did the volcano stop?

· In 2001 same old same old same old.

· In 2006 I had enough Roselyn Cassell-Sealy took over leadership of the party and it was renamed MCAP they changed the attack to Roselyn.

· 2009, I am back as leader and the attacks are worse than ever. Why? Because they see a wind of change with a huge support for MCAP so they are out for my blood.

Ask yourself the questions –

· are they afraid MCAP will take over the government and continue the good work which we have shown that we are capable of?

· Are they afraid that we will stabilize the economy and create more work for the people?

· Why have they not challenged my ability to do the work – never once have they said I am incapable of doing the things that are necessary to rescue and rebuild Montserrat.

Instead, what are they trying to do? Destroy the good reputation of Montserrat by claiming that its leaders are all corrupt for the following reasons:

* Local politicians getting over 100% housing grants ahead of more needy applicants – ask that of MLP.
* Former minister while being a Minister in charge getting two 100% grant funding for at least two houses which are currently rented. Ask that of the MLP.
* Which MLP candidate continued drawing payment for years from a Union which they claim I killed while the members got little or nothing? Ask that of the MLP.
* A wife of a Contractor and co-owner who while being a Minister being involved in the construction contracts with Government – ask that of the MRP. Also ask them how many persons either have won court cases against their company for not completing their work but spending all of the money or how many suppliers and workers they still owe on contract works, including government contracts.
* A candidate who is on trial for major fraud with a case currently before the courts – ask that of the independent candidates.

Enough said.

What are the new charges against me? They claim that I did not declare my interest in a company I formed with a friend in 1997 to assist in the rebuilding of Montserrat houses. It is public knowledge that I was part of that company as a Manager, shareholder and Director. In March 2008 on becoming a Minister I wrote to the Speaker and the Governor indicating that I had given up my interest in the company as Manager, Director and Shareholder. The Registrar of Companies records will show that in 2008 the returns of L&M Construction did not include Reuben T Meade as a shareholder or Director. L&M’s owner has informed the authorities that I am not employed by the company as a manager.

In a radio statement in August 2009 while responding to a caller I indicated that I was a Manager of L&M, but did not indicate that I was currently a manager. This is the basis of the continued distractions of those who do not wish to see Montserrat progress.

Where do we go from here? Let us focus on the issues and not be distracted by those who do not have the interest of you the people at heart. Judge them by their history – has anyone of them been imprisoned in the United States? The two brothers have been so imprisoned.

The economy of Montserrat like that of the rest of the Caribbean and the world is still undergoing a major recession. We must immediately start the process of planning a way forward to cushion the shock while at the same time creating work and growth. MCAP will have an economic roadmap produced and discussed with the public before presentation to DfID within 3 months of getting into elected office.

MCAP will commence the HOME Initiative which was being developed by the Ministry for housing. Through this programme we will inject $7m into a soft mortgage scheme to allow for qualified borrowers to obtain affordable mortgages. A special allocation of $1.5m is being set aside for Davy Hill to rebuild some of the totally inadequate houses in that community. This programme will start within 3 months because the Director of Housing and the PS in that Ministry have already done the necessary work to allow it to start quickly. This is an effort to create a substantial number of construction related jobs to include truckers, block manufacturers and other suppliers of materials. MCAP will.

The Port Construction Design work has started to allow for the projected start of construction in late 2010 to early 2011. This not only has a larger jetty but includes a breakwater. We will find the means to build it and not make the same mistakes that were made in building an airport which cannot meet the minimum needs of a recovering economy.

The design of the Hospital reconstruction will commence next year to allow for planned funding in 2011.

We will introduce a medical benefits scheme to allow persons to obtain the most affordable medical care as we can supply.

Consultation have been ongoing with a medical school to try to get a properly certified medical school to be located here again to create jobs and other income generating opportunities.

We will work to obtain more affordable air fares and connections from Antigua to Montserrat. We can already see the day tour fares from Montserrat to Antigua return at $270. It can be done and we will continue working at developing a proper airline service to Montserrat. Once properly marketed the day tour market from Antigua to Montserrat will again be rebuilt to create jobs for taxi and tour operators; souvenir shops and restaurants.

We already have pre-project approval on the Government Office buildings. Already, local architects are at work designing these buildings to allow for tendering to take place by the end of this year for work to commence early in 2010.

We also have pre-project approval on the major roads rebuilding project to allow for the start of surveys and designs to be completed. We will expect to start actual work on the actual construction in a few months.

The legislative programme for the remainder of 2009 must include not only the completion of the integrity in public office bill but also minimum wage legislation; consumer legislation; housing legislation; road traffic legislation as priorities. However, it is important for all to participate in the discussions of these bills before they go to second reading in the Legislative Council.

We must also tackle a host of education and welfare issues and we will.

In closing, I urge you not to be distracted by persons who have personal vendettas. Do not encourage them to drag the name of this country into the mud. Do not encourage them to stop progress and job creation. How do you do that? On September the 8th place an X in the box to vote for all the persons on the ballot box with a yellow background -

Herman Francis Easton Taylor-Farrell Leroy Greaves

Charles Kirnon Reuben T Meade David Osborne

Colin Riley Roselyn Cassell-Sealy Jermaine Wade

Do not waste your vote. Vote for a Government. Vote for a team that is well organized, managed and have been together as a party since 1991. Vote all nine for team MCAP only one way you voting. Do not let people tell you to split your votes that will only cause confusion.

Thank you and GOD Bless.

My friends, colleagues, supporters, citizens of Montserrat, the electorate, with just a few days to go before our general elections I greet you yet again as your humble servant offering my services to you the people as a candidate with TEAM MCAP in the General elections. As time draws near I urge you to be wise as you cast your votes on the 8th of September. As we look at our current political structure we must realize the time has come for a breeze of change.

For the past 13 yrs our country has been lead by the same set of people who continuously offers themselves as our political representatives, my friends we have observed Montserrat’s progress over the last 13 years and am quite certain you may have questioned your judgment at some time looking at the performance of the politicians you elected to represent you. Today we are looking at some of the same politicians who we must agree have failed in representing you the people of Montserrat, but yet present themselves as our saviours but saviours from who themselves? They now present themselves with bright new ideas that were never implemented when they were there. I ask what’s new or different this time.

From the onset we the members of team MCAP made it clear we will not engage in any form of mudslinging or character assassination and as such will stick to the issues. Team MCAP presents a slate of candidates that has extensive exposure and experience in different related fields. Team MCAP has the capacity to rescue and rebuild Montserrat.

Team MCAP will:

1. Get the economy moving
2. Revamp the dormant tourism industry
3. Provide housing for our people
4. Restructure our education system
5. Revitalize an effective sporting programme
6. Improve on our existing health care services and facilities
7. Develop an agricultural plan so that we can feed the nation on local produce
8. Provide an alternative for access to and from Montserrat
9. Officially adopt the national youth policy that will empower and assist in our youths development
10. Enhance our cultural and heritage programmes

Team MCAP will get this country going and ultimately deliver the MCAP dream; “Prosperity for ALL.” I am confident in my colleagues and will assure you that working together as a team will ensure that if elected we will have a sustainable government that will serve the people of Montserrat effectively.

With that confidence in my colleagues I present myself to you yet again asking for your fullest support as we go to the polls on Tuesday 8th September and that you vote for Jermaine Wade and Team MCAP. I will however ask that you bear in mind a few things before you cast your X’s. I come to you as a sign of hope, as a promise for a bright future for Montserrat and as a rising son that will provide that continuity that is needed within the political arena and the development process of Montserrat. There must be transition and with that comes succession planning and as politicians age they must make their departure and therefore we need emerging politicians who can and will serve this country well with pride, dignity, integrity and honor and that my friends I will offer. We must however not forget the good and contributions of our great politicians for we must thank them, commend them and continue the good works that they started.

On Sept 8th I ask that you vote for Jermaine Wade, a vote in securing the future of Montserrat. It is important that youth play a vital role in our nation’s development knowing that the benefits of the soil that is toiled today will be reaped by the youth of tomorrow. Bearing that in mind I am offering myself and ask that you give me the opportunity to champion the cause for our young people to be empowered and to be more involved in the development process of Montserrat. It is a fact “tomorrows leaders are the youths of today” and so as a youth of today I am asking for an opportunity to serve, an opportunity to learn and at the same time contribute to the development of our nation.

In Closing I call on every young voter, some of which have only now attained the age of voting remember it is your democratic right to vote. For many years others have voted on your behalf, in what they thought was your best interest, you can now decide what is in your best interest and so that right should be exercised. I suggest to you a vote for Jermaine Wade and TEAM MCAP is in your best interest because we care and have demonstrated that. My presence alone has shown MCAP’s commitment to youth development in Montserrat and so I say to you vote wisely vote Jermaine Wade and Team MCAP. To all parents a vote for Jermaine Wade is a further investment in your child or children continued development as I will keenly represent their best interest. Again to everyone I ask you for an opportunity to serve as that motivation that society has failed to provide to our youth, as that icon for our youth to aspire to be better than, that motivation that will drive them to reach for the sky. Finally I ask you the electorate for one opportunity to serve and if elected I will earn the other opportunities to serve a next time, so on Tuesday September 8th vote Jermaine Wade the future of the nation and give team MCAP the mandate to manage this country and deliver the MCAP dream “Prosperity for All”. Thank you and may God richly bless you and Montserrat.

Regards,
Jermaine Wade “the future of the nation”

The former Chief Minister of Montserrat, Mr. Brandt, had some parting advice, “…To all candidates, particularly those coming into the arena for the first time, I say congratulations and welcome. Your very presence suggests that new leadership will always arise from the people…You could fool some of the people all of the times, but you could never fool all of the people all of the times.”

Addressing the public of Montserrat, the Attorney-at-Law said, “Take care so as not to be fooled. I advise against voting for all nine candidates of any party, because who then will keep the government on its toes and let you know what they are doing.”

Focusing on the electorate asking how they should vote, David Brandt responded, “Those who have held public office should be judged on their record. That better than anything else will tell you what to expect. When they come to you with shiny new promises, judge these new promises against what they have actually done or not done. Ronald Reagan, while campaigning for a second term as President of the United States of America, used to say, ‘If you’re happy with what I have done in my first term of office, vote for me, and if not, don’t’. This is the exact test we must give to all of our elected officers’ who are asking for your vote again…For the new candidates, you must judge them by the strength of their history of community involvement and how they stood over the year’s on matters that were of importance to you and Montserrat.”

The final words of his speech said, “…Let me take this opportunity to thank the thousands of you who supported me throughout my 26 years in active politics. Thank you, also, to those who opposed and challenged me. You helped to keep me sharp….”

Mr. David S. Brandt’s entire speech can be found at www.themontserratreporter.com.

Responding to an article entitled ‘What was the trigger for Chief Minister Dr. Lowell Lewis?’, Dr. Lewis said:

My letter of 12th June 2006 to HE The Governor, Mr. Peter Waterworth, clearly stated the following:-

“It was also quite clear during discussions at Executive Council yesterday, that there is limited support for the current actions being taken by the Ministry of Finance. It is my belief that at this critical time, the people of Montserrat should have a say in who manages the country. I believe that my colleagues in Government should have the mandate of the people, if they want to determine the future of this country.”

With this letter, I signaled to the Governor, that my cabinet was not agreed on fiscal policy at a critical time and that I was not prepared to hand over total control to the MCAP team, or to attempt to form another coalition with the existing legislators.

The actions I proposed to take as Minister of Finance in relation to ensuring good management at the St. Patrick’s Credit Union, and dealing with the Government of Montserrat budget deficit, were not supported.

The decisions required at this time, will all be politically unpopular, and require a stable, united government, that has a good working relationship with the United Kingdom.

This was indeed the trigger for the dissolution of the Legislative Council, as the alternative action of dismissing a minister, would not have created a stable Government and ultimately result in the same outcome, an early general election.

My subsequent letter to HE the Governor on 13th June 2009, in which I directed the revocation of the ministerial appointments of Mrs. Cassell-Sealy and Mr. Reuben Meade, stated:- “I now must make additional requests to ensure the smooth running of the business of Montserrat.”

I also went on to state:- “I take this action, so that I can effectively deal with concerns about conflicts of interest and other pending investigations.”

This referred to pending further investigation of the operations of the St. Patrick’s Credit Union during the time the Mrs. Cassell-Sealy was Managing Director, and to concerns about the failure of Mr. Reuben Meade to take the necessary steps to conclude his separation from a company that had an ongoing contract with the Government of Montserrat, despite making such a public declaration in Parliament.

Mr. Editor, I trust that the information in this letter provides adequate explanation of my calling for early general elections. I will not at this time comment on Mr. Gerald’s opinions of my relationship with some previous members of the Montserrat Democratic Party and my style of leadership, other than to state that all my decisions have been based on what was considered by the majority of my supporters, to be in the best interest of the people of Montserrat….

Not only did Chief Minister Lowell Lewis send this letter to the Editor of the Montserrat Reporter, he also sent a copy to HE the Governor and Mr. Claude Gerald.

But you know what? Me grandfather say, some Montserratian politicians love to dabble in obeah.

“Talk de truth black boy. Tell us the issues.”

That is the issue. You heard it from the minister’s own mouth. The minister has to consult his medicine men in Guadeloupe before he announces his candidacy. Guadeloupe? What else could he be talking about, except to get his skin washed or to get his watch and ring dressed. Protection man, protection! But do not blame him. Can’t you see how many times they had to man’s foot well mashed up? There is hardly a good ligament in his ankle.

“Talk de truth black boy. Tell us the real issues”

Questions about issues are for politicians. I write only to entertain. So ask me another question.

“Well then, tell us where the campaign money will come from?”

Ah! That’s a good question. You heard the African Liberator Candidate complain about not having enough money to bribe the electorate. But that is nothing compared to what he has to pay the obeah man to wash his skin every two weeks until election day.

Last Election, he only had to protect himself from the other two persons who ran in his constituency. But this election he has to protect himself from every candidate. Even those in his own party will try to obeah him. And if he can’t pay the medicine man, he might as well forget the race.

“Talk de truth black boy.”

Who on the battlefield better put on their armour or lie down. And who on the outside looking to join the race better take heed.

Last year the Chief spent weeks in Antigua pretending to be consulting with specialists. But what specialist? Medicine men – real ones from Haiti, that’s what he was up to. And he is still walking on crutches. Some curses require many visits to get a cure.
Even the lady ministers, they are very smart. These days you just can’t tell what people are up to. But when you notice women wearing false hair, that is, weaves or dead people’s hair, you have to wonder if it is not for protection – rather than style.

“Talk the truth black boy.”

Truth! Truth! Ay saw, La mo shea, o high oleo. Tie up he nable string. So don’t you know what is wrong with the Minister of Agree Culture? He had to run to England. None of his medicine men could agree on which herbs or plants to use to cure him. They did not understand politics on Montserrat. But I could a tell him. And I would a tell him, if he did ask me. Ah boy…a we culture. Jumbie politician pan he. It is the deceased political legend “Book of Life” on him. Can’t you see that the minister is blocking the man’s rebirth to politics? That is very clear to me. Please, somebody, give the minister this remedy for me. Tell him to make a concoction of long grass, Beth root and Jointa bush, mix it with badikeda milk, and tie it under his navel and keep it tied in place for 13 days. Tell him that it worked for me.

“Talk de truth black boy.”

Thirteen is a bad number for Montserrat politicians. Yes, listen well, because who can’t bear Government shot must not drink Government’s wine.

This election will be taken very seriously by some people. The big “Jay” is afraid of the number 13. He will not arrive on Montserrat before the 13th. He will not announce his candidates before the 13th. These delayed movements are scheduled so as to break the spell of election defeats. You see, his allotted time was 13 years of Government, 1978 to 1991. It is just a game of last lick, half and time or green bush. But 13 is 13; six and seven is still 13. No matter how you look at it, age 67 is really a dangerous age for Montserrat’s politicians.

“Talk de truth black boy.”

Please tell them to cancel this photograph thing on the ballot paper. I ain’t giving nobody my picture. I ain’t crazy, not yet oout of my mind. All the candidates have plans to win on election day; and my picture will not be out there on any poster for them to dig out my eyes. I will trust no one during this campaign. From now on, I am putting red lavender under my right arm before I write any article.

“Talk de truth black boy.”

Please call me black, but do not call me boy. I’m not a slave. In fact you can even call me Roy, black Roy, ok?

I have been reliably informed that DFID already has 50 leprechauns on Montserrat. So far the leprechauns have been very successful; their presence has caused the increase in homosexual activity among our young people; and they ensured that unfounded rumours of sexual exploits by our leaders have been leaked to the Internet. Most recently, these leprechauns have mischievously confused the ministers, causing them to resign. And don’t you realise how much stupidness you dream at nights? It’s the leprechauns that cause that.

Ssh, pay attention. A number of DFID staff are gypsies. But for heaven sake, do not try to identify them except when they are going backwards; for example only when they are reversing a car.

Worse yet, the forces have asked me to warn that DFID will bring in 27 elemental beings to put at the polling stations on election day. These are nine nixes, nine elves, and nine salamanders. They will cause a lot of mischief on voting day. Do not be afraid though. Green bush is the most impotant tool in our culture. We have plenty of it here. Always carry it with you, especially under the soles of your feet, even if you have to sleep in socks.

So go on, run quick and tell the candidates to check with me for their supply of black hellebore, galbanum, glagwyn, callandine, nettle, and myrtle. Tell them to bring along a few hairs from the horse’s tail, so that I can bind the supplies for their protection.

Tell them if they perspire while campaigning that they must not use any tissue; and if they do, to discard it carefully. Tell them to put it in their pockets and discard it only in the sea.

Tell the candidates to walk carefully at all times. Tell them to tie a length of hair from the horse’s tail around their knees or ankles and that they must make the tie in a double horse knot.

Tell the candidates not to cut their fingernails in public, tell them to flush all nail parings in the toilet. Tell them to secure all hair from combs and brushes. Better yet, tell them not to visit the barber or the hairdresser between now and election day.

“Talk the truth black Roy.”

Tell the voters that in order to make the X for their favorite candidate that they must do as I say. Tell them to drink a potion made up of bitter aloes, fern, sage, and salt on the eve of the election day. Tell them also that on election day they must place two lizard eggs in their shirt pocket and make the sign of the cross in the palm of their hands with olive oil.

Remember, Grandfather say, Montserrat politicians does dabble in obeah. And if you do not believe Grandpa ask Brunie, or Rupie or Adie or Davie.

They will tell the truth that politics on Montserrat is not just a joke, it is also a serious health risk.

Chief Minister Lewis shocked everyone but himself in calling a September 8 poll. It came out of no where in a raggedly written letter to the Governor asking to dissolve Parliament in preparation for a shortened life, cut short by approximately two years. Given the illogic of the communiqué one has to wrestle with the implication which borders on lack of support for the Ministry of Finance, his portfolio, from his political colleagues in the coalition; hence, he reasons the people of Montserrat must have a say in who manages the country.

Just constrast this to a multitude of varying versions to justify his actions on national radio, his pet medium, announcing the firing of two of his ministers and effectively damning the coalition and chances of alternative combinations from the legislature. It is fascinating, if not futile, to speculate on the source of the leader’s incoherence.

To compound matters, people have been in a dazzled frame of mind with marginal tastes for a national election which is bound to affect voter turn out at the polls.

Some contend that it is a case of political suicide with him not being able to attract running mates. But given Lewis’ deep and enduring admiration for the officially expired John Osborne and the latter’s advisory role in always thickening the plot in a crisis, Lewis may feel empowered by Osborne’s nine lives legendary status. He is yet to learn that John Osborne is himself for himself and his antics on the political stage of Montserrat cannot be fashioned or duplicated in any lifetime.

So an election no matter the state of the country must be called because a Chief Minister feels that the only way to settle his apparent differences with his ministerial colleagues is to go to the people and ask for a mandate to govern. Just get up one morning and in a fit of calm rage and in the absence of a highly touted pre-2006 election caucus, already crushed by his neglect and monolithic tendencies, the leader was alone on an increasingly difficult course of his making largely, in abandoning the ship of state.

Those with knowledge of his inner dispositions suggest such actions ought not to be the object of surprise. This characterization begs the question of the nature of the democratic process that can create and manifest such flippancy at the top level of government where greater balance and equanimity is needed. Without that we can descend into a state of anarchy compliments the direction set by a combination of Lewis’ aortal wizardry and neophyte people management skills.

Typically such a state calls for putting a prior case to the people using political skills of maneuver and guide to bring them on his side whilst massaging the psyche with confidence that the probability of crashing on hard rock is unlikely with him at the controls. These are extraordinary times that bring challenges across all sectors of society and a most assuring leadership will guarantee some measure of comfort to an already distressed populace. A rocky sojourn that presents more basic questions than answers calls for leadership that is characterized by calm and confidence, basic qualities that propel followers to line up under the direction being set.

Montserrat lies deep in a fiscal cesspit that grows deeper and filthier with the passage of time. Britain, its main bank roller, is adopting IMF like strategies with its finances and no argument against that stance can stand up. If anything, the ‘mother’ country could be accused of encouraging callous spending of its money without insisting on at least standard measures of financial accountancy. Eagle-eyed watchers with a sense of balance and efficiency are aghast at the waste allowed and encouraged by a public service lacking suitable management skills and the morality to oversee the proper management of donated finances. There is no question that public servants as part of the executive arm of government plumb the depths of inefficiency in major aspects whilst those who can make a difference turn a blind eye, all to their own self preservation and aggrandizement.

An election is a costly exercise by any means. Quite apart from the direct financial outlay the indirect opportunity cost that center on effectively shutting down an already burgeoning public service, with poorly exampled or ministerial support in affected ministries over a three month period is incalculable. It does translate to worsening attitudes to work and a shortening of the work day, occasioned by late arrivals and early departures. And the effects could run the gamut for a long time to come.

A leader is not only a trend setter, he is the very definition of a country’s value system. To not see and appreciate that is to make a mockery of the senses and the selection processes in a democracy. Our world spins on the very spirit of leadership.

Whatever the trigger to Lowell Lewis’ actions of necessity is explained by the quality of his leadership.

I think right now there is a lot of anxiety around the issue of our right to vote while living abroad and while disbelief comes to mind when referring to the thoughts, opinions and ignorance of certain individuals, I feel compelled to say thank you. I know you are probably thinking that I must be crazy, but if we are on the same page with this issue, shouldn’t we be thanking him for giving us the opportunity to do something about his plan and continued arrogance before something dreadful happen? Shouldn’t the many candidates seeking to take office be scrutinized for any ounce of evidence that they might be in bed or colluding with wolves in sheep clothing lying in the wings waiting for the opportunity for a Montserrat takeover? Yes, President Obama has provided inspiration for those who dare to dream but don’t be misguided by those who echo the need for a change and simply fall in line with the many empty vessels who hold office or presented themselves as worthy candidates before.

Montserratians today I join the large number of Montserratians abroad who care about that little, troubled piece of rock that we still call home. Come September 8th you will have to make a decision so the angle I’m choosing to take is one of appealing to your intellect, common sense, loyalty to country and that little part of you that say, “Montserrat is mine and my decision is going to reflect that”.

Montserratians what is the promise this time?
Have you been in temporary accommodation since the start of volcanic activity and waiting for things to be sorted on a more permanent basis? Do you recall talks over money being available for a new airport even when it went over budget? Thousands have been spent on a new cultural centre as maintaining Montserrat’s culture is seen as an integral part of re-development and as a way of ensuring the culture is not entirely lost with the exodus of Montserratians seeking greener pastures. Surely if our representatives can present a case strong enough to get the necessary funds available to complete an airport or cultural centre, the negotiation skills are there and therefore should be used to get accommodation sorted. This has been promised on numerous occasions and still look at where you are today. Don’t be fooled by the next candidate who you know in your heart is capable of making a lot of noise about this but will simply not deliver. If he or she couldn’t when the budget was bigger please think long and hard or as we say pick sense out of nonsense.

Montserratians what is the promise this time?
Have you been promised more opportunities for employment and even the possibility that friends and family will be back by your side because jobs are there to come home to? Yet Montserratians are sitting at home waiting for handouts from those now residing abroad because non-nationals occupy those positions. I have been abroad for more than 10 years now and in discussion with Montserratians it is a fact that many who are now more qualified, better skilled and those who are simply homesick feel very strongly about returning home, but realistically to what? Are you by any chance proposing we migrate to study to be a solicitor, engineer, doctor or whatever have you and after completing our studies an opportunity present itself abroad which is favourable, we abandon it in the name of patriotism and love for country? Let’s stay on track now as the real issue here is being mindful of what is being promised in all those campaign speeches. Have you really seen an increase in employment opportunities or yet another campaign promise, from a balloon full of hot air.

Montserratians what really is the promise this time?
Please don’t see this blog as insulting your intelligence but instead something to remind you that people like Mr Adams are your neighbours, your friends and even candidates trying to get your vote and to have you signed up to their team. If you’ve been following this blog I don’t think it can be made any clearer in terms of their intentions. I am too aware of the fact that time is not on our side where electoral reform is concerned with the next election only weeks away. I don’t have a problem with foreign nationals and can’t afford to, after all I reside in a foreign country. I love Montserrat and I strongly believe so does everyone who left its shores before or after volcanic activity began. While we are not able to exercise what I believe will always be our constitutional right through place of birth, I implore the remaining Montserratians who have that privilege to choose wisely. It’s being constantly made clear that it’s your destiny and we should not have the right to decide that. Whether those of us abroad accept it as that, is another situation. If your love of country is the main reason for staying behind then prove it with an intelligent, informed vote. I didn’t comment on the issues that are closer to home because people are directly and indirectly affected in a negative way by different things. This is merely to get you thinking as the future of Montserrat depends on what you do on that significant day. Legislation is a powerful weapon that could present itself as a great risk politically, economically, psychological and physically if it favours those individuals plotting to take over. Your vote will be giving them that weapon. Are you prepared for that? Good luck with deciding Montserrat’s future.