Campbell: It’s my duty to campaign for ‘yes’ vote

Chairman of the Constitution Reform Steering Committee, Parnel Campbell QC, will only stop campaigning for a “yes” vote in the November 25 referendum if the House of Assembly withdraws or modifies his mandate.{{more}}

The former Attorney General issued a press release on Wednesday September 16, responding to calls by Leader of the Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), Arnhim Eustace, for him to resign as chairman, as well as other calls for him to abstain from the government’s “Yes Vote Campaign”.

“I have always been mindful of the terms of reference laid down by the House of Assembly to govern our (the CRSC) operations,” Campbell said.

“It is clear to me that the terms of reference require me to carry out all expedient or necessary acts to assist the House of Assembly in implementing the Constitution reform.”

Campbell highlighted the first of six terms of reference, which directed the CRSC to “assist the House of Assembly in implementing Constitutional Reform in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”.

Campbell added: “The house passed the SVG Constitution Bill 2009. Constitutional Reform will not be implemented unless that bill is approved in the referendum to be held on 25th November 2009.

“It is obvious that I have been mandated to do all in my power to assist the House in having the bill approved on November 25 with the requisite majority.

“I cannot discharge that duty imposed on me by the resolution of June 7 2007, co-sponsored by the Honorable Leader of the Opposition, unless I play an active part in the campaign for a ‘yes’ vote.”

Campbell maintained that as long as he has “health and strength” he would continue to be active in the “yes” campaign.