Dominica’s Education Minister, Octavia Alfred, is condemning the recent acts of violence on the island that have claimed the lives of two young men.
Donaldson Wallace of Marigot lost his life on Saturday, December 27, 2025, after being chopped in the neck, while on Christmas Eve, Jervie Mason was reportedly gunned down during a drive-by shooting in the vicinity of the Back Road in Bathe Estate.
According to reports, over 20 homicides were recorded for the year 2025.
“This is a time when we should be enjoying ourselves with our families, sharing joy, being merry, eating and drinking. And so I took this opportunity to strongly condemn the recent acts of violence and shooting in our country,” she said. “Such acts of violence have no place in our society and they only bring us pain, and they only bring us fear.”
She continued, “They only disturb our communities and our country.”
Alfred urged everyone to join in building a culture of peace and tolerance.
Furthermore, she stated that the Government of Dominica is committed to ensuring that every Dominican is safe.
“And we will continue to take steps to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to curb violent crimes,” she noted. “So as we wrap up 2025 and we move into 2026, let us stand up by our national anthem and a people strong and healthy, ‘Full of Godly reverent fear.’”
Alfred added, “Let’s show reverence to God, let’s show respect for life, let’s show love for each other. Let’s embrace each other and let’s appreciate and maintain this peaceful nation.”
She also called on the nation to have a spirit of tolerance and to resolve conflict amicably.
“There is always a better way to do it,” she emphasized.
Alfred sent sympathy and strength to the families who are going through this grieving period at such a time, “and I call on every Dominican to condemn these acts and you play your part in ensuring that we maintain a peaceful nation.”
