Marigot, Dominica – December 19, 2023
The United Workers Party (UWP) in Dominica gave its nod of Approval to economist Dr. Thomson Fontaine re-electing him as the political leader of the main opposition party. The announcement was made during the party’s conference held in Marigot, on Sunday.
Dr. Fontaine, who has served as an economic and international policy adviser to the government of South Sudan for the past four years, expressed gratitude for the continued support despite challenges related to his prolonged absence from Dominica.
“I am humbled by the decision of the delegates despite the obvious challenge that was pointed out in terms of my absence. I am delighted that they still gave me that opportunity to lead the party,” said Dr. Fontaine, a former employee of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Acknowledging the hurdles posed by his absence, Dr. Fontaine outlined his focus for the upcoming year, emphasizing the need to rebuild the party’s base, establish robust party structures, and strengthen youth and women’s arms. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining pressure on electoral reform, an issue that led to the UWP’s boycott of the last general election held in December.
The political leader underscored the significance of unity within the party, recognizing that while differences may exist, a united front is crucial for effective representation and challenging the current government led by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
“In my speech, I shared the need for us to be a united party. Obviously, everybody can’t agree on everything, but I think at the end of the day, we need to understand that the only way we are going to make this is if we stand united,” emphasized Dr. Fontaine.
The UWP, under Dr. Fontaine’s leadership, faces the task of rebuilding and consolidating its position as the primary opposition force in Dominica. The party’s commitment to electoral reform remains a key aspect of its agenda.
