标签： Dominica

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.

Dominica’s Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, has announced significant progress in the Government’s Housing Recovery Project, with 240 homes currently under construction across the island. The initiative, funded by the Citizenship By Investment (CBI) Programme, aims to provide sustainable housing solutions for communities affected by natural disasters and economic challenges.

During a key-handover ceremony in Scotts Head on Monday, Poponne-Skerrit presented 21 families with new homes, emphasizing the widespread impact of the project. “These homes are a testament to the transformative power of the CBI Programme,” she stated. “We are not only addressing immediate housing needs but also fostering long-term community development.”

Last week, 16 families in Eggleston received homes under the same initiative, marking another milestone in the government’s efforts. Poponne-Skerrit assured that the project is far from complete, with additional communities set to benefit soon. “Your turn is coming very soon, before the end of the year,” she declared.

The Housing Recovery Project spans multiple regions, including Woodford Hill, Canefield, Penville, Paix Bouche, Vieille Case, Trafalgar, Pointe Michel, Dubique, and Grand Bay. In Pointe Michel alone, 18 new homes are nearing completion, with an additional seven ready for handover. Island-wide, a total of 91 homes are prepared for distribution, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving living conditions for Dominicans.

Poponne-Skerrit’s announcement highlights the project’s role in rebuilding communities and enhancing resilience, particularly in areas vulnerable to climate-related challenges. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to leverage CBI funds for national development, ensuring that every citizen has access to safe and affordable housing.