On behalf of the Interim Executive, our members, supporters and well-wishers, let me state that the Alternative Peoples’ Party (APP) stands in solidarity with Mrs. Anette Sanford, the Honourable Senator and member of the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) in the Dominica House of Assembly.

We decided to give support to Anette because of the way she was treated in the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Dominica, by the most senior members of Parliament, and others on the majority side. While it is quite fine, and even fair game for there to be feisty parliamentary debates, we see demeaning, belittling, shaming and name-calling as poor strategies in combating one’s political rival.

Anette is a spirited community leader and a consummate professional. She has a loving family, which extends to her wider Kalinago community. Anette is a responsible, most caring and respectful person who does not deserve the treatment which she received in parliament. The United Nations declares that the involvement of women in politics “is essential for the achievement of both transparent and accountable government and administration and sustainable development in all areas of life.” In that case, we probably need more women like Anette in Dominica’s Politics.

My party has taken the decision not to publish the disparaging utterances of the Honourable Prime Minister, because this would only bolster his intention. Instead, we highlight and praise Anette for her bravery and determination in representing her Kalinago tribe, and Dominicans at large.

Thank you, Anette. You have distinguished yourself and we are proud of you and your achievements. Please keep representing, fighting, standing for and debating the issues which are crucial to the progress of our people and country.

This is not one of the matters where partisanship calculus should determine one’s action or reaction. We stand and act on a matter of basic respect, human dignity and public civility. You are the bigger person in our eyes, Anette, and we salute you.

Sharon Vidal

Women & Youth Outreach Executive (Interim).