Dominican attorney Cara Shillingford has expressed grave concerns regarding the stringent bail conditions imposed on several individuals arrested during a recent protest against controversial electoral reform legislation and charged with unlawful assembly. This charge falls under the Public Order Act and carries a penalty of up to five years in prison. The arrests following these protests, which have drawn significant public interest, have led to heightened fears over the state of civil liberties in Dominica.
In a discussion organized by the Eectoral Reform Coalition (ERC), Shillingford highlighted that some bail conditions, particularly those preventing the accused from engaging in any media discussion related to their cases, represent a worrying trend towards suppression of free speech.
“To impose such draconian, undemocratic, unconstitutional bail conditions on individuals for potentially extended periods is flabbergasting,” she stated. “This should be of extreme concern to every Dominican who values liberty and democracy.”
The bail conditions, set by a magistrate, prohibit the accused from discussing their cases publicly, effectively silencing voices critical of the government’s actions. Shillingford pointed out that the justice system in Dominica is already plagued by significant delays, with some cases dragging on for years.
“When individuals are barred from participating in public discourse for what could be a lengthy duration, it raises fundamental questions about the right to freedom of expression,” she stated.
In her remarks, Shillingford referenced the constitutional protections afforded to citizens, including the right to assemble and express opinions freely.
“These rights are not only enshrined in our local constitution but are also recognized in international human rights treaties to which Dominica is a party,” she said. “Preventing individuals from attending public gatherings stifles important political discourse and undermines the very fabric of our democracy.”
Among the accused are notable figures, including former members of parliament, who have historically played active roles in public discussions. Shillingford argued that these restrictions effectively isolate political leaders from their communities, diminishing their ability to advocate for electoral reform and engage with constituents.
“This is not just a local issue; it speaks to the wider implications for human rights and democratic practices in the region,” she warned. “Every Dominican should be concerned about these developments, as they threaten the essence of our democracy.”
Those who have been arrested include former parliamentarians Hector John, Danny Lugay and Johnson Boston who is also the chairman of the Electoral Reform Coalition.