Heated discussions in Dominica over switch in diplomatic relations
by Paul Charles
Friday, April 2, 2004
ROSEAU, Dominica: Discussions in Dominica on
the switch in relations from Taiwan to China has led Prime Minister Roosevelt
Skerrit to accuse some journalists of treason.
The Dominican leader told a news conference on Thursday that some journalists
were committing treason by assassinating the characters of the Dominican and
Chinese government officials with their serious aspersions.
‘’People call into question the integrity of
the officials of China and whether the agreement signed is not part of a plot
to deceive the people of Dominica. “Now
clearly I do not mind being attacked or criticised by anyone. But with someone
in the position of influence to ascribe such unethical conduct to the Premier
of China is stepping outside the bounds of decency, respect and fair play to
cast serious aspersion on the characters of our integrity merely to impress
his or her political masters is regrettable at best and near treason at
worst.’’
He told reporters some of their own were
practising intellectual dishonesty and merely serving their political masters.
Without naming names he said some
journalists were bent on destroying the reputation of the two leaders.
Public Relations Officer of the Media
Workers Association of Dominica Matt Peltier, who was present at the
conference, told Skerrit the allegations were strong and he should disclose
the names of the journalists. Skerrit said he
would make the announcement at his party’s public meeting in the capital
Roseau Thursday night. Dominica on Monday
severed ties with Taiwan and established relations with China who has promised
an aid package of over US$100 million in five years.
As requested by PM Skerrit on Monday nationals began airing their views on
local talk shows on Roseau’s newly established relations with Beijing.
The reactions have been mixed, particularly
along political party lines. There have been some heated and passionate
exchanges between hosts and callers on the subject.
Back...
Most popular
articles: viewed, printed and e-mailed
Printable
version
| 
