Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerritt has resisted criticism stemming from opposition boycotts of Parliament and ongoing questions surrounding the United Workers Party’s relevance in Dominica’s political landscape. Speaking during his press conference today (June 23rd), Skerrit emphasised that the government has maintained its focus on development and governance despite the absence of opposition representatives in key national discussions.
“Elected representatives have a duty to participate in the democratic process. Walking away does not help their constituents or advance any cause,” Skerrit stated. He questioned the logic behind persistent boycotts by UWP candidates, particularly given their calls for electoral reform, a process which he says is currently being addressed in good faith.
The Prime Minister noted that several reforms long called for by the opposition are already underway, including hiring an Electoral Reform Consultant and drafting legislation based on his advice. Yet, he pointed out that these efforts continue to be met with rejection from UWP figures, some of whom refuse to acknowledge the legitimacy of the process despite their own calls for reform.
Skerrit further suggested that the UWP’s strategy lacks cohesion and is increasingly disconnected from the population’s core concerns. “The opposition has not presented a clear alternative or vision,” he said. “Dominicans want to see results, not rhetoric.”
He acknowledged the importance of robust opposition in a democracy but maintained that simply refusing to show up or engage meaningfully serves no one, least of all the Dominican people. His comments reflect growing national conversation about whether the opposition’s tactics are yielding political gains or isolating them from the electorate.
As Dominica approaches the 2025 electoral cycle, the effectiveness of these strategies, boycotts, external pressure, and refusal to contest recent elections, remains under scrutiny. Skerrit’s remarks make it clear that while the opposition may continue to challenge his leadership outside of Parliament, the administration intends to press forward with its agenda.
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