The Dominica Freedom Party is compelled to speak out on the recent actions of the police in the City of Roseau and, more importantly, by the deafening silence of both the Police Force and the Ministry of National Security in explaining those actions to the Dominican public.

Within the past week, we witnessed:

1. The destruction and removal of the makeshift structures of coconut vendors in and around Roseau, carried out by officers dressed in army fatigue.
2. The removal, and subsequent return, of benches along the sidewalk on Independence Street in the reputed “Zone Rouge” area.

In both cases, the people of Dominica have been left in the dark. No statement has been issued to clarify the legal or administrative basis for these actions. No explanation has been given as to whether due process was followed, whether the rights of coconut vendors were respected, or whether public safety was given proper consideration.

Of equal concern is the widespread public perception that the decision to return the benches was not grounded in policing strategy, but rather in political interference with the work of the police. If true, this represents a serious erosion of the independence and credibility of the Police Force and raises troubling questions about whose interests are being served.

The police are entrusted with upholding law and order in a fair, transparent, and impartial manner. The absence of clear communication on these matters undermines public trust and confidence in the very institution tasked with protecting us. Silence in the face of such widespread public concern is not an option.

The Dominica Freedom Party therefore calls on the Police Force to immediately provide a full and transparent statement to the people of Dominica, explaining the legal and operational reasons for these actions:

• Under what law or regulation were the vendor stalls removed?
• What process initially justified the removal of the benches, and what new directive compelled their return?

We further call on the Minister of National Security to account to the nation and to assure us that political directives are not interfering with policing decisions.

The failure to answer these questions demonstrates a complete disregard for transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. It feeds the growing public perception that the Police Force is not acting independently, but rather as subordinate arm of the ruling regime. The Dominica Freedom Party calls on the Police to reaffirm its independence and restore public trust by explaining its actions and ensuring that enforcement of the law is applied fairly and without political interference.

Dominicans deserve to know that their police force is acting independently, professionally, and in accordance with the rule of law. Anything less weakens the foundation of democracy, justice, and public order in our country.

The Dominica Freedom Party