Opposition leader sees nothing wrong with Leacock’s remarks

Arnhim Eustace is standing by his man; he has no problem with the statements made by Senator St Clair Leacock concerning Cuban professionals in St Vincent and the Grenadines.{{more}}

At the rally on June 8 following the march of his party through the streets of Kingstown, Senator St Clair Leacock suggested that government was going to use Cuban professionals stationed here to boost their position in marginal constituencies during the next elections.

“I have no disrespect for the struggle of the people of Cuba,” Senator Leacock said during the rally, adding, “But I have disrespect for the intentions of the Government with what they intend to do with the people of Cuba.”

Senator Leacock went on to state: “In that critical 14 day period they would register the over 500 Cubans who would be here, and put them strategically in the constituencies that matter, and ensure that you continue to suffer and be victimized.”

Cuban Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olga Chamero Trias, wrote a letter to SEARCHLIGHT condemning Leacock’s statement, and accused him of trying to create fear in the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines about “The disinterested contribution the Republic of Cuba is making to the development of this country in the direct interest of the people.”

But Eustace in a press conference last Tuesday, said that his party was guarding against any attempt by the ruling party to use persons not eligible to vote to determine the outcome of the next election.

“We are an opposition party here in St Vincent and the Grenadines, we have gone through elections in 2005 in which there were numerous election irregularities, this time we are seeking to protect ourselves,” he said.

Last Monday, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves referred to Senator Leacock’s statement as rubbish that was not worthy of a response.

“What strikes me is that Senator Leacock is setting up an excuse for a next failure at the polls,” Dr Gonsalves said.

A disappointed Ambassador Chamero Trias in her letter stated that it was the New Democratic Party under the leadership of Sir James Mitchell, who established diplomatic relations with Cuba 15 years ago, and the relations that Cuba has with this country are also shared with other OECS and CARICOM countries.

Eustace however said that he didn’t see any problem with the statement and added that his colleague was only presenting the possibility of such an action being taken. (KJ)