On Wednesday 10th March 2022, history took effect in Salisbury as villagers went to the poll for the first Village Council election in fifty-nine (59) years.
Following a day of voting, five individuals formed part of history as they were elected as the top candidates at yesterday’s election. In order of most votes, the electees include Russel Felix (313), Selma Louis (311), Ned Toussaint (276), Sylvia Vidal (251) and Vincent Langlais (233).
Notably, the council must comprise of eight (8) members, three of whom are appointed by the government of Dominica. Following this, the eight-member council will then select a Chairperson among themselves.
Remarkably, Parliamentary Representative for the Salisbury Constituency, Honorable Hector John expressed that there was a large turn-out at the election which is evidence that the people of Salisbury are ready to be led by an effective council, following the 59 year period. He noted, “I would like to commend the five persons who were elected as well as the other six persons who contested. It is clear now that the people of Salisbury endorse the existence of a Village Council.” Moreover, John is of the belief that the council will work in the best interest of the people and will be proactive in providing opportunities for the villagers as well as development for the community.
Furthermore, Elections Supervisor, Mr. Burton Vidal, was also pleased with the overall election process yesterday. “I must indicate that yesterday was a very historical day in the village. There has been a hype over the last three years and yesterday was the climax,” he voiced. Vidal pointed out that the last hour at the polls attracted quite a large number of persons.
Additionally, he articulated that elections in Salisbury has always been exciting and yesterday was no exception. “It was simply a day of comradery and there was no sign of political division,” he added. Further, Vidal believes that if Salisbury has a strong Village Council, Disaster Committee and fisheries co-operative then the community would be a force to be reckoned with.
Moreover, the top candidate Mr. Russel Felix expressed sincere thanks to everyone who exercised their right to vote. “Yesterday went smoothly. I applaud the people for coming out in large numbers to send a message to the community and by extension the country,” he said. Felix expressed that he was speechless when he topped the polls but was also joyous to be a part of history and this momentous occasion.
He noted that his plans for the community have been announced from the get go. He pointed out that some of the initiatives he seeks to promote include a clean-up campaign, planting of trees and flowers, enhancement of agriculture, improvement of youth in education and sports, development of roads and infrastructure, proper lighting of the community, promotion of elderly care, development of fishermen and the beaches and the establishment of a community center.
With all these initiatives in mind, it is the aim of the newly elected council to sensitize the people and to re-enact the spirit of a village council which has been faint over the last fifty nine years.
