Dominica radio station dismisses criticism from Catholics

by Paul Charles
Caribbean Net News Dominica Correspondent

Thursday, May 19, 2005

ROSEAU, Dominica: The proprietor of a local commercial radio station Kairi FM, Frankie "Krazy" Bellot, has taken issue with the Catholic Church over a statement read at masses which accused its talk show hosts of unwarranted attacks on its leadership. 

The letter written by an unknown group calling itself Concerned Catholics slammed the station's talk show hosts as being "offensive, insulting and demeaning" to the Bishop of Roseau, Gabriel Malzaire and President of Dominica, Dr Nicholas Liverpool. "We condemn the attack on His Lordship, the Bishop of Roseau. It was unwarranted and uncalled for. We condemn that attack in the strongest terms."

According to the group, the May 9 incident was unfortunate, given the head of the local Catholic Church's statement which called for decent campaigning leading up to the May 5 general election.

"The Bishop fearlessly and openly guided Roman Catholics in how they should conduct themselves during the election campaign," the statement added.

Bellot, a controversial talk show host, said he was disappointed with the church and believe it divides the country. "I'm disappointed in the church. The church is supposed to lead instead they are helping to divide the country, that's sad," he said.

The concerned Catholics further stated the Kairi FM broke the election code of ethics entered into by the church, the political parties and the media.

"We know that those who hold positions of authority are not beyond criticism. This media house totally violated the spirit of the letter of the election code of ethics."

Bellot dismissed the claim that his station signed a pact with the church, saying that it orchestrated a campaign to keep the United Workers Party in opposition for another five-year term. In the past, the Catholic Church has denied its involvement in politics and has criticised priests who have openly supported political parties. He urged the clergy to leave politics to politicians and stick to religion, adding that some church leaders were siding with the ruling Dominica Labour Party which was returned to power on May 5.

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