For too long, Skerrit has been constantly traveling and rarely present at home, disconnected from the everyday realities facing Dominicans. Outside of election season, meaningful interaction with our people is limited. Then suddenly, during campaigns, we see staged appearances, posing at cleanup sites and public events as if this were part of a normal, ongoing routine. Which it is not!
By expanding and strengthening the role of our President, we transform the office from a simple token title into a valuable national asset, one focused on international promotion, investment and global engagement. This, in turn, allows our Prime Minister to slow down, stay grounded and truly engage with our communities, listening to our people year-round, not just when votes are needed. Dominica deserves a Prime Minister that is present, accessible and accountable, where the voices of our people are heard every day, not only during election cycles.
Dominica has long followed a system where our President serves primarily as the head of state, a role that is largely just ceremonial and symbolic. Our President represents the country at official events, presides over formal ceremonies, gives constitutional assent to laws and acts as a unifying figure. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister handles the day-to-day governance and is meant to engage with the public, manage the Cabinet and oversee government operations.
While this structure has functioned for decades, it is clear that both offices need to evolve to meet the realities of the 21st century.
Our President: should no longer be confined to ceremonial duties alone. Instead, the office will now become a proactive ambassador for Dominica, charged with promoting investment, tourism and international partnerships. This role would involve traveling and actively courting serious investors, advocating for sustainable development and raising Dominica’s profile on the global stage. Our President should be a constant, visible presence in economic and cultural promotion, ensuring that Dominica’s voice is always heard internationally, not just during election cycles or sporadic political events.
Our Prime Minister: role at the same time, must be clarified and reinforced. Our Prime Minister’s work cannot be limited to legislative debates or campaign seasons. She must remain engaged with our people year-round, listening to our communities, addressing local concerns and ensuring that government initiatives reflect the real needs of Dominicans.
Redefining our President as an active promoter of the island and ensuring that our Prime Minister stays deeply connected with our citizens creates a balanced and modern leadership model. Our President can focus on strategy, vision and international representation, while our Prime Minister focuses on the people, governance and implementation. Together, these offices would drive both economic growth and social cohesion.
Dominica deserves leaders who are present, engaged and accountable at all times, not only when political expediency demands it. Reforming these roles is not optional, it is essential. It is time to create a system where our President and our Prime Minister each fulfill clearly defined, complementary duties, positioning Dominica for sustainable growth, global relevance and a stronger connection between government and our people.
Team DRP