A parliamentary session devolved into turmoil as multiple government MPs staged a walkout during Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle’s contentious retirement tribute. The protest, joined by members of the public in the gallery, erupted during Pringle’s sharply critical assessment of Sir Molwyn Joseph’s 38-year political career as the veteran MP prepares to retire from active politics.
The controversial remarks came during what was intended as a ceremonial honoring of three parliamentarians: retiring St. Mary’s North MP Sir Molwyn Joseph, newly installed MP Randy Baltimore, and the late MP Eustace ‘Teco’ Lake. While Pringle offered glowing praise for Lake and brief acknowledgment for Baltimore, he deliberately withheld traditional diplomatic courtesy from Joseph.
Pringle justified his approach by referencing what he characterized as Joseph’s past treatment of him within parliamentary proceedings. The Opposition Leader delivered a severe indictment of Joseph’s legacy, asserting his tenure was defined by controversy and administrative incompetence. Specifically, Pringle accused the retiring MP of presiding over a deteriorating healthcare system and neglecting his constituency responsibilities.
The walkout, involving at least five government MPs alongside public spectators, represented a dramatic breach of parliamentary decorum. Protesters only returned to the chamber after Pringle concluded his remarks and resumed his seat.
In stark contrast to Pringle’s criticism, subsequent speakers offered genuine tributes to Joseph’s lengthy service. Opposition MP Richard Lewis acknowledged Joseph’s substantial contributions spanning nearly four decades, while Barbuda MP Trevor Walker praised the retiring parliamentarian as one of the Lower House’s most skilled debaters. Pringle later defended his critical stance by urging the assembly to embrace honest assessment rather than uniform praise.