As the Commonwealth of Dominica celebrates its 47th Anniversary of Political Independence, I feel deeply honored—and duty-bound—as the last surviving member of the Cabinet that led Dominica to nationhood, to call for continued recognition and respect for all who contributed to this defining moment in our history.
Our independence was not achieved in isolation. It was the result of vision, courage, and the collective efforts of many dedicated Dominicans—both in government and in civil society—who believed in self-determination and the promise of a free and sovereign Dominica.
The Founding Fathers of our Independence were the men who served in the Cabinet of then Premier Patrick Roland John. Their leadership and resolve guided Dominica through the final stages of our political evolution. In addition, the Executives of the Dominica Labour Party, following the 1975 General Elections, played a vital role in advancing the agenda for independence and engaging Dominicans across the island in the national conversation about our future.
We must also remember the contribution of the Popular Independence Committee (PIC)—a group of forward-thinking activists who lent their voices and support to the movement. Among them were Bernard Wiltshire, Rosie Douglas, and others whose advocacy helped strengthen the call for independence.
In 1976, Political Leader Patrick John launched the vision formally through The Salisbury Declaration, a statement agreed upon by both the Cabinet of Dominica and the Party Executive. The declaration outlined Dominica’s intention to seek independence from Britain and set the stage for our eventual sovereignty.
We must also acknowledge the leadership of former Speaker Eden Bowers and former Minister Ferdinand Parillon, who remain among the surviving members of the 1975 Labour parliamentary team.
All the men who served in the Cabinet at the time of independence have since passed away. As the last surviving member, I feel it is my sacred duty to ensure that their names are remembered and honored for generations to come. They are:
- Premier Patrick Roland John
- Hon. H.L. Christian
- Hon. Victor Riviere
- Hon. Leo Austin, Attorney General
- Hon. Randolph Bannis
- Hon. Luke Corriette
- Hon. Osborne Theodore
Premier Patrick John, Victor Riviere, Leo Austin, and I traveled to the United Kingdom to present our formal request for independence to the British Government. Upon our return, we were met by a passionate crowd on the E.C. Loblack Bridge, a moment forever etched in my memory. May my esteemed colleagues rest in eternal peace.
Within Premier John’s Cabinet, a subcommittee led by Permanent Secretary Ossie Symes recommended the design of Dominica’s national flag, created by Alwin Bully. I remain deeply proud to have been part of the Cabinet that reviewed and approved this symbol, which continues to represent our unity, pride, and resilience as a nation.
It was also my distinct honor to serve among those who approved our National Anthem, written by W.O.M. Pond with music composed by Henckel Christian, as well as the National Pledge, which embodies our patriotism and national spirit.
While the flag designer has rightfully received recognition, I believe that the composer andlyricist of our National Anthem deserve equal acknowledgment for their invaluable contributions to Dominica’s cultural heritage. Their legacy, like that of our political founders, must be preserved and celebrated.
As we mark 47 years of independence, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals upon which our nation was founded—unity, justice, progress, and pride in our Dominican identity.
Happy Independence to all Dominicans at home and abroad!
Oliver J Seraphin
Last Surviving Member of the Cabinet of Ministers at the Time of Independence Commonwealth of Dominica
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