The Dominica Calypso Association (DCA) is embroiled in a significant leadership crisis, with former president Ian Jackson shedding light on the controversies surrounding the organization’s executive leadership. The dispute centers on allegations of constitutional violations, particularly concerning term limits for executive members. According to the DCA’s constitution, executive members are restricted to two consecutive terms, followed by a mandatory one-year hiatus before re-election. However, several outgoing executive members, including President Davidson “Observer” Victor, Treasurer Narin Murphy, and Secretary Daryl Bobb, have reportedly exceeded this limit, prompting a group of petitioners to challenge their legitimacy. Jackson acknowledged the validity of these claims, stating, “The petitioners are right in making that claim, although the practice has not always followed the constitution, but it should stand.” Beyond term limits, the executive has faced criticism over financial management, with some members questioning the appropriateness of stipends averaging $4,000 and the Association’s efforts to promote calypso both locally and internationally. The situation reached a boiling point during a chaotic meeting on September 27, 2025, which lacked a quorum and was chaired by a petitioner, Emmanuel “Haxey” Salamat, rather than a neutral party. This led to the resignation of eight out of nine executive members, with only Curtis Johan Lloyd (Joey Lloyd) remaining as caretaker to oversee fresh elections scheduled for October 11, 2025. However, petitioners have contested Lloyd’s authority, arguing that only a steering committee, not an individual, should manage the election process. Jackson confirmed that discussions are ongoing to resolve the crisis, including a potential review of the constitution by legal counsel and the formation of a steering committee. The outgoing executive emphasized their commitment to accountability and transparency, stating, “This transition represents a moment of renewal for the Association, reinforcing our commitment to service to the calypso community and people of Dominica.” The outcome of these efforts is expected to be clarified at the upcoming meeting on October 11.
Former president Ian Jackson weighs in as Dominica Calypso Association grapples with leadership controversy
