Thusian Institute condemns policy of the Opposition Leader

The Thusian Institute for Religious Liberty has condemned the policy recently enunciated by President of the New Democratic Party Arnhim Eustace, and is calling on him to change it.{{more}}

In a release issued on April 29, the Institute said the policy, which states “no candidate or potential candidate of the party should make any public statements which are averse to any religion”, is against the God-given Religious Liberty Right of an individual.

“It is also against our constitutionally protected freedom of Conscience,” the release said.

The constitution of St Vincent and Grenadines, under the Protection of freedom of conscience 9 (1) states “Except with his own consent, a person shall not be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of conscience, including freedom of thought and of religion, freedom to change his religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others, and both in public and in private, to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.”

The release said the “policy is also outside the perimeters of the role of government which is to protect the inalienable Rights and Freedoms of all the people and NOT to make law “respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech…” (See 1st Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America).

“To make such a law will lead to the protection of some religious groups-usually those whose teachings are accepted by the majority, while some religions will be outlawed, particularly minority groups. We remind the Opposition Leader that legitimate criticism (including criticism of religion) is also a dimension of free speech,” the release said.

“The policy does not augur well for freedom of expression and it is not a good indication of what can take place under an NDP government. We caution that this policy taken to its furthest extent can lead to persecution of a person who is critical of any religion.

“We call on Mr. Eustace to change his policy to show that he truly respects and will protect the God-given constitutionally protected freedoms of all Vincentians.”

The Thusian Institute for Religious Liberty Inc. is a Human Rights’ Education Provider with special emphasis on the Right to Religious Liberty.