Starcom Network Inc. has firmly stated that the dismissal of Ronnie ‘De Announcer’ Clarke, its former Programme Manager, was not linked to his performance of a contentious calypso at this year’s Pic-O-De-Crop competition. Instead, the decision followed a formal disciplinary process concerning internal company matters. Anthony Greene, Starcom’s General Manager, emphasized that while the public may associate Clarke’s termination with his controversial calypso performance at the National Carol Festival, the action was rooted in concerns about his role within the organization. Greene expressed gratitude for Clarke’s 25 years of service and acknowledged his contributions to the company. The termination, effective last Friday, was the result of a disciplinary process aligned with internal protocols and national labor laws, involving legal representation from both sides. Clarke, a veteran calypsonian and broadcaster, has contested his dismissal, citing ‘serious misconduct’ as the stated reason. He met with the Labour Department on Monday to present his case and has until Friday to file an appeal with Starcom. His attorney, Hal Gollop, has communicated with the Labour Department and is confident the appeal will be submitted before the deadline. Clarke plans to address the public at a freedom of expression march on Saturday, where he intends to reveal additional details. The termination letter, signed by Noel Wood, CEO of Starcom’s parent company, the Nation Group, cited Clarke’s remarks on the Marcia Weekes Show on July 16 as breaches of company policies. Specifically, three of his statements were deemed false, malicious, and detrimental to Starcom’s interests. One such statement criticized the company’s lack of transparency, describing it as a failure to address ‘the elephant in the room.’ Clarke’s case continues to draw public attention as he seeks to challenge his dismissal and defend his professional reputation.