The Dominica Constitution was again brought to the fore by protesters walking in the city of Roseau on Wednesdays in search of, they say: peace, justice and Prosperity.
One of them, opposition Parliamentarian Danny Lugay, has been summoned to court because according to the police, he and others in the same boat, did not have permission to engage in that activity organized by activist Athie Martin.
Lugay is insisting that he does not require permission to walk because the constitution gives citizens the right to do so.
“Protection of the freedom of assembly, are we assemblying today,” he said, addressing the crowd. “We have a right based on the consititution. (Section) 11:1 said, except with his own consent, a person will not be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of assembly. This is the constitution of Dominica: freedom of assembly and association, that is to say, his right to assemble freely and associate with other persons. Is that what we are doing today? And in particular, to form and belong to a trade union or other association for the protection of his interest.”
He added, “Section 10:1 of the supreme law of the land, said, except with is own consent a person shall not be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression. Are we expressing today? Including freedom to hold opinions, without interference. Policemen, are you hearing me? Stop harrasing us. We have a constitutional right.”
Dominica’s Parliamentary Opposition Leader and head of the United Workers Party, Lennox Linton has also received a police summons to appear in court on similar charges.
