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Bird Refuses to Resign

MP Lester BirdAntigua St. John's - Former Prime Minister Lester Bird has refused to budge as political leader of the main opposition Antigua Labour Party despite attempts by his parliamentary colleagues to force him to step down.

Bird issued a strongly worded statement on Wednesday stating he has not been included in any discussion on the matter.



The Leader of the Opposition made it clear he would not be part of any such conspiracy or plot and warned of the effect such a move could have on the party ahead of the next general election, constitutionally due in 2014.

The following is the full text of the statement issued by the Leader of the Opposition:

Bird’s Media Statement
 
I have read a story appearing today, Wednesday, August 15, 2012, on the CARIBARENA Website which purports to convey from “a reliable source” a plot by several elected members of the Antigua & Barbuda Labour Party (ALP) to displace me as the Opposition Leader.
 
According to the CARIBARENA article, captioned “LESTER TO BE ASKED TO STEP DOWN”, I would be asked to remain Political Leader of the ALP, and some other ALP parliamentarian would become Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.
 
There has been no such discussion with me, and I would not agree to any such arrangement. The Constitution of the ALP at Section 8.9.1.1 commands that “The Political Leader of the Party shall serve as the parliamentary leader…and [be] the person entitled to head any government formed by the Party…”
 
As the Leader of the ALP, I intend to exercise the duties and functions which the Constitution compels. I shall not conspire to weaken and to destroy my Party at any time, and certainly would refrain from any self-serving act less than 600 days before general elections are constitutionally due. The ALP is larger than any one member.
 
One of the reasons prompting this un-constitutional plan, which the CARIBARENA article cites, is my absence from the Parliament’s Chambers on Friday, August 20, 2012, during the OECS Assembly. Independence Anniversary celebrations, which many of us have not attended, are another of the events mentioned as the rationale for the unconstitutional act that is supposedly contemplated.
 
I did not intend to boycott the OECS Assembly, as several journalists have wrongly accused, and I did not boycott the Friday Assembly. My commitment to regional integration, both as Head of Government and as Leader of the Opposition, is without question. On June 18, 1981, I lent my signature to the organic document which created the OECS. My OECS “Thorn Bird” speech, has acted as my guide in regional integration, and still remains relevant today, years following its delivery.
 
Former Prime Minister Kennedy Simmonds and I, prior to Friday, did indeed express feeling slighted by the program executed last Friday which excluded completely those founding OECS Heads and Plenipotentiaries who are still alive today. I nevertheless published a statement last Friday, carried by CARIBARENA, which celebrated the coming into being of the OECS Assembly and repeating my commitment to regionalism.
 


There had been some discussion, more than two weeks ago, involving Opposition Leaders, regarding the possibility of having me deliver a statement on behalf of Opposition Leaders, last Friday. I spoke with the OECS Director General, Dr. Len Ishmael, indicating that an inflamed back would cause me to have to sit, should I be a spokesperson.

Nonetheless, because the host Prime Minister was sure to speak, one Opposition Leader insisted that his preference exclude Antigua & Barbuda’s Leader of the Opposition. He reasoned that Antigua & Barbuda would appear too dominant, if both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition spoke at Friday’s Inaugural Assembly. Not wanting to have the Assembly start on a contentious footing, I agreed that Antigua & Barbuda support that other Leader.
 
The question of sitting for an extended period was not very attractive, on Friday, August 20, 2012, since my back was inflamed and I could not stand for long periods on that day. Some days are better than others, since the operation on my back several months ago.

I chose, therefore, not to make an appearance on Friday, not to cause the Assembly to be off to a contentious start, and not to allow any flawed planning to guide my decision-making. It is surprising to learn that my selflessness could be interpreted as an act deserving of a pernicious and unconstitutional plot.
 
The ALP is facing a fierce and non-performing United Progressive Party (UPP) Government that has shown a willingness to gerrymander the boundaries of the constituencies in order to engineer an unwarranted victory. For the UPP to name as Head of the Boundaries Commission and Head of the Electoral Commission, men who seem to act on the instructions of Government, contrary to the law and the oath which each took on accepting the posts, is reason enough for the people to elect the ALP to govern.
 
The UPP has demonstrated that it does not intend to abide by internationally-accepted electioneering standards. It has failed to publish and to bring to Parliament the guidelines that are to be followed by the Boundaries Commission, and it has used the Parliament to weaken and compromise the Electoral Commission. It is the same UPP administration that unlawfully removed Sir Gerald Watt from the Electoral Commission and has stripped the Supervisor of Elections of her duties and responsibilities.
 


The battles which I continue to lead, in the courts, in the councils of the ALP, in the parliament and elsewhere, have caused countless electors to encourage me to carry forward this fight against this regime that does not respect the law. My leadership is unassailable, and I intend to continue to lead this Party for as long as my health lasts.
 
Conspiracies and plots that are intended to cause unconstitutional displacement of the duly elected leader are not to be entertained. The ALP will continue to lead the struggle against those who may place their personal ambitions ahead of the interest of the people of Antigua & Barbuda, as exhibited by Mr. Baldwin Spencer and other UPP politicians. The ALP will continue to strengthen its work in favour of the Antigua & Barbuda nation, and will not relent in its defence and rescue of Antigua & Barbuda from a rapacious and non-performing UPP.
 

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59 Comments In This Article   

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@ Antiguan Woman, "is you is..."

#59 Jumbee Picknee » 2012-08-23 18:19

Antiguan Woman, please accept my apology for my late response to your request. So, I'll have a Vintage 1976 Penfolds Chardonnay delivered to you by Kangaroo Jam, along with a Dr. B.S. bobbing head doll, an Antiguan GG hula doll dressed in fever gra$$ skirt and tank top, swinging her hips to, "knock three times on the ceiling," she's to dignified to jam to 'kick in de back doh' and to top it all off, 9 RED miniature carnations, 1 for each constituency you're praying that ALP at least win come 2014 because, I really want to take you off those Red-n-White steroid packed capsules, they're making you bulk up in the wrong places and making you too aggressive. So just chillax and enjoy another vintage recording, "THE LADY IN RED," by Chris deBurgh...Jumbe e record
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Jumbee Picknee

@JUMBY PICNEY

#58 ANTIGUAN WOMAN » 2012-08-20 11:39

Are you insane?? whatever your problem i cant help you.,unlike Jimmy,i think you,re really sincere in your ignorance.I will tell you like i told him,i quote " HUNGER MAKES A THIEF OF ANY MAN" ( pearl s Buck) I say no more.
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ANTIGUAN WOMAN

@Jimmy( poverty is the mother of crime(marcus Aurelius)

#57 Antiguan Woman » 2012-08-20 10:40

FYI,i have one child who is capable of taking care of herself, I am pretty sure LB,s are also all grown.I am almost sure that you understand the context of my stupid comments, but may be trying to be difficult.Whome ver the cap fits let them wear it, if someone puts hatred for one man infront of their Child/Childrens future,then some will most likely pay the conseqence for their choice,telling me i am stupid will not change the reality.Pay attention to the quote above,its happening right now.
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Antiguan Woman

Vote for Me!

#56 JP Farnsworth » 2012-08-20 09:33

I'm going to run against Lester. I'm in good health and can stand for hours I just need some one to walk my dog from time to time while I'm busy.
You will need to take a pencil and write me in because I have no money to hang up posters and Billboards. I am independent and since I have taken no monies I don't owe any favors.
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JP Farnsworth

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#55 Daughter of the Soil » 2012-08-20 08:30

Dig It, thank you for your honest response. Our country seems to be in a catch 22 position, ALP or UPP. I agree that people should put country before self. It would be nice to see a change to the two party system and/or the recycling to the same old.... . People should rid themselves of party loyalties and concentrate on party policies and election manifestos. If the party does not deliver, vote them out and put in a different party. If they do not deliver, a repeat happens, that way, the people and the government will focus their minds on what is best for the country and its people and at the same time the government knows that they must deliver or be voted out. I for one, would like to see more independent MPs or a new third party. We need people with VISION and LEADERSHIP. Looking forward to 2014!
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Daughter of the Soil

@Daughter of the Soil

#54 Dig It » 2012-08-17 20:52

Daughter of the Soil, I wasn't going to make a comment until I saw yours. To answer your question, Quote:
Is there a place for a 3rd party in A&B who accountable and operates in the best interest of the Country and its People.
I personally believe we will see a viable "third party" depending on the outcome of the 2014 elections! If the ALP loses, you will see a even more complete "breakaway" of somes of its "disgruntle" members, who will either jump ship or form a party of their own (Big ???). This time around, 2014 would be different because the country's calling on all sons and daughters of the soil will be critical to its future and survival, if it continues to go a "downward-spira l" and NO "effective" Loyal Institutions are there to safeguard the peoples "nest" from "looting" and "destruction" at day and night! A&B needs men and women who have the courage to put "country-over-s elf!" Some persons that only see party-first will say differently (okay if that's their cup of tea)! Yet, I am not here to please anyone but the man upstairs and call it as I see it, and, refuse to put any man or woman over this beautiful country!
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Dig It

LB - Give it up

#53 Lively » 2012-08-17 20:02

Lester Bird should try and bow out of politics gracefully. His best years are long behind him. It seems as though he wants to rust in politics. At his present age he should be enjoying the remaining time on this mundane sphere in tranquility. Why is it that when politicians taste power they have such a difficult time giving it up even when they become infirm and irrelevant. From his statement above he seems self-opinionate d, intransigent, obdurate and recalcitrant.
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Lively

@ Antiguan Woman

#52 Jumbee Picknee » 2012-08-17 18:37

Who're you!!!! To insinuate, that simply because WE as a free Nationals of the State of Antigua, Barbuda & Redonda, excercise Our Democratic Right to Free Speech, Free Will and Free Choices, that Our Children will become slaves to a system that was in part, designed by said, ALP, and by extention the Birds, et al xxxr and his cocaine conspiracy, xxxe and his Israeli guns; these are but few of the examples which set the tone for those less fortunate children to become todays warlords, pushers, murders, thieves in Our Nation.
There parents had less positive choices to offer their children, unlike those wive's, servants, secretaries of the xxxds who made sure they got a diplomatic pass, rather than a pass to the street corner or the jail. WHO'RE YOU, to classify those that gave you and the Birds there nest in such vile manner. WHO'RE YOU?
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@ ANTIGUAN WOMAN

#51 Jimmy » 2012-08-17 15:58

Why won't your or Lester's children not have to be thieves or drug pushers like the rest of our children? I guess it's because they have enough...and still want to tek more?

You are so self serving! How insulting! You are doing Lester more harm than good by your senseless posts! Your last post really shows how you think! The rest of us are less than you and Lester? How amazing and to think that V. C. Bird, father of the nation, was such a humble man...then again he was born here...unlike you and Lester!
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Jimmy

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#50 A WORD TO THE WISE » 2012-08-17 12:16

People please get sensible and read through the lines,whenever the name Lester is mentioned, the upp choir singers latch on and start they campaign on caribarena,what i cant see,is how they manage to get some so called alp supporters to join they singing,i believe anyone who comes on carib arena and make certain sugesstions and comments about the alp leader is no--------- alp supporter,not by a long shot,they are upp sycophants,who blog over and over with different names.Real alp supporters,keep off the topic and let them have they feast day,i have a feeling by joining in,you are setting fuel to their fire,just keep out,because on the day of reckoning,unlik e blogging with three screen names,they can only vote once.
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A WORD TO THE WISE

Jimmy

#49 ANTIGUAN WOMAN » 2012-08-17 09:26

If A,guans would allow they hatred for one man to keep the upp govt in office,then so be it.i can assure you ,when you go to the s,mart and Apua they dont see Blue/Red.It will be they stomachs that will talk at nights and their Children who will be theifs ,drug pushers,vagrant s and **,not mine,not Lesters.
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ANTIGUAN WOMAN

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#48 Daughter of the Soil » 2012-08-17 08:54

All very interesting comments! Surely, A&B after 28 years of ALP and now 8 years of UPP, if you are dissatified with both......My Question....Is there a place for a 3rd party in A&B who accountable and operates in the best interest of the Country and its People. I would definitely want to be part of such a party because I love A&B. Are you ready for such a change A&B people????
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@ ANTIGUAN WOMAN

#47 Jimmy » 2012-08-17 08:32

You are wrong! With Lester as Leader in the next elections the UPP stands a much greater chance of winning the next elections!

Lester said he would release his medical records since last year...nothing!

What he is doing now is setting his "goons" after anyone who questions his ability to lead the Party! He is encouraging the Party to tear itself apart - just to satisfy his own selfish plan...and of course to help keep sycophants like you at the trough too!

His present machinations are bringing into question his capability to reason!
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Jimmy

@HC

#46 It Is Me » 2012-08-16 23:43

@HC ... I notice you didn't have anything to add to the debate of "Bird refuses to resign" ... instead you just go through others opinion and hate on their opinion ... I guess you are just a natural born hater who only knows how to hate!!! Hate on hater!!!
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It Is Me

@HC

#45 It Is Me » 2012-08-16 23:29

@HC ... you are sending me back to school and you don't know who LBJ is ... I think you better learn to use an I-Pad and then look up LBJ!!! I commented on LBJ and other leaders and then you comment on me and then tell call me a silly child? Who is the real "silly child" here? Who is the one who has to call people names just to try and make a comment?
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It Is Me

RE- It is me

#44 HC » 2012-08-16 22:53

WHO IS LBJ? I THOUGHT THE CONVERSING WAS ABOUT FDR. SEEM LIKE YOUR I-PAD IS NOT HELPING MUCH.GO BACK TO SCHOOL,YOU SOUND LIKE A SILLY CHILD.
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HC

@Observer overseas/Jimmy

#43 ANTIGUAN WOMAN » 2012-08-16 22:33

What one line in my post would lead you to think,i was making comparison between FDR& Lester Bird based on performance? I know there is where you,re going but i do not intend to go there with you.I made a comparison based on FDR physical state during his time as president,i,ve already made that clear as to why i did so,i dont need to apologize to anyone for maing that comparison based on that.Why under the heavens would i compare a US president in the 1930,s with anyone in the prsent.Lester may not be another FDR,he is certainly way smarter than his present living competititor BS.@ Jimmy,i will ignore your comment,and pretend i never read it.And for the info of all who may think because of my Gender i will be intimidated into silence,THINK AGAIN!!
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ANTIGUAN WOMAN

Lester Lester Lester!!!

#42 It Is Me » 2012-08-16 22:12

Wow ... whoever thought the "intelligent" Lester Bird would have went out like this. What is it with certain leaders that can't see the writing on the wall?

But it's not just Lester Bird we need to watch we need to get rid of Baldwin Spencer as well. These times are technologically driven and we need leaders who are up to par with technology ... not ancient dinosaurs who don't even know how to use I-Pads etc...

Lester Bird is making it diffucult for both his party and his constituency right now. He clearly can't help neither in his condition ,,, and it might cost them both the seat and the general elections.

His supporters keep talking about LBJ and other leaders who were wheelchair bound etc... but fact is LBJ was much younger and he was never voted out and neither did he loose 2 consecutive elections like Lester did.

But we can't put all the blame on Lester ... if he has nobody able to challenge him what do you expect him to do?

Lester should become Chairman of the party and just help them win the next election!!! Time to move on!!! Time to write books and go on the lecture tour mr Bird!!!
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It Is Me

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#41 Truth » 2012-08-16 21:45

Cafriarena go to North Street tomorrow with your cameras at 5:30 and you will see two to three men lifting Lester up and down the few steps at North Street. The Public needs to see the real Lester Bird who cant stand.
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Truth

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#40 Shame » 2012-08-16 21:36

After redding these pots I feel shame for Lester Bird. The people have had enough of him and his lame excuses he should step down now and allow the party to move forward.
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Shame

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#39 Antigua to de bone » 2012-08-16 21:33

Since resignation is now the hot topic lets get it right by starting with who should be first to go. lets see the hands for Baldwin Spencer followed by Harold Lovell, next in line Errol Cort.Quinn-lean dro,Bro (season rice)B, John waste a time maginley and namba the joker should be wrapped up in a package deal and leave toghether.The rest,well they will just fade with the sunset.
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Antigua to de bone

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#38 SlyThatGuy » 2012-08-16 21:11

I don't know how long Lester Bird is going to continue this charade,but there is reason not to believe that he willfully absented himself from the Assembly to avoid it to be off to a contentious start. The truth is his poor health precluded him from attending the meeting. Because if his health was not an issue,why would he mention that his back was inflamed and that he could not stand for long periods on that day? This is very reminiscent of the day of the vote of no confidence,whic h is I think he would be better off retiring at this stage of his life.
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SlyThatGuy

OBSERVER -back problems is the hardest to get over

#37 Back trouble » 2012-08-16 21:05

The same amount of time that Dr dr and harold Grubble use the global crisis as an excuse.
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Back trouble

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#36 TC » 2012-08-16 20:58

Speaking of putting personal ambitions ahead of the interest of the people of Antigua/Barbuda , hmmmmm
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TC

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#35 ANTIGUAN WOMAN » 2012-08-16 20:55

I have no problems with anyone who thinks Lester should step out,i even mentioned once to a co-worker if i was in his position i would do so. My issue really is not with anyones opinion on such,we are entitled to our opinion,however my concern is more on the remarks made by some,as if an ilness is a disgrace,i only used FDR as a comparison to say that a disability does not make you incapable. Some of the comments here is clearly not out of concern but just out of malice,for one i never can understand how the leadership of the ALP could be soo important to even die hard UPP supporters,neit her can i understand anytime the topic is on LB,everyone is extemely focused,yet when the real issues arise,they are silent.This is my opinion with or without Lester Bird,the UPP do not stand another chance in winning a fair election.Just my opinion.
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ANTIGUAN WOMAN

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#34 Eric » 2012-08-16 19:53

Lester cannot and will not step down – There is no “Bird” ready to take over the leadership – Vere Bird III is strapped with too much " baggage” it will be a long long time before the party would accept him. As for Gaston Brown – We are sorry he is not a “Bird”.
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Eric

@ Lester!

#33 Obstinate » 2012-08-16 17:54

I coming down to talk to you! If you back a hat you - tek wan aspirin "maine"!

I coming down to talk to you! They say Hurst xxxxxxng your speeches dem (like wrong date)!

I coming down to talk to you! They say Hurst want Maulwyn to replace you!

I coming down to talk to you! They say even your old buddie Sir Sir want you thrown over board!

I coming down to talk to you! They say Jimmy bad mouth you every where - except when he in front of you!

I coming down to talk to you! They say xort will fund your campaign in 2014!
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Obstinate

@ ANTIGUAN WOMAN

#32 Jimmy » 2012-08-16 17:45

There you go again...it seems you must be related to Lester? If that is the case you're really doing his legacy a disservice! How much more embar**ment must this former icon endure to ensure you sycophants get to the trough...again?
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Jimmy

ANTIGUAN WOMAN

#31 tenman » 2012-08-16 17:36

Quote:
The only time you really live fully is from thirty to sixty. The young are slaves to dreams; the old servants of regrets. Only the middle-aged have all their five senses in the keeping of their wits. Theodore Roosevelt
ANTIGUAN WOMAN, I have had occasion to study some of the things Roosevelt did and he went out of his way to ensure that his handicap was never an issue. In fact most Americans did not even know he had one. In public he did not use his wheel chair. Roosevelt never allowed his handicap to be an issue, can we say the same about the leader of the opp? I honestly mean no disrespect to MP Bird.
..
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tenman

Antiguan Woman

#30 Observer Overseas » 2012-08-16 16:27

Antiguan Woman,
You should note that FDR was 51 when he was elected president of the United States. Mr. Bird will be 76 by the next general election. And although many of us pretend that it does not, age matters. There comes a point when "more important things" such as ones family and health should take precedence over politics and power. And just one more thing, Lester Bird is no FDR. Not by a long shot!!
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Observer Overseas

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#29 smokie » 2012-08-16 16:20

I've herd on several occasions other members of the opposition said, that the {upp} was trying to cut off the head of the opposition but now they are plotting themselves .all I'm saying on poor-people behalf is anytime ''Lester Bird'' is not the leader ALP can't win any election in this country, the people remember the leadership of Lester and so that's why the swing is taking place again. if the other members think that the people are so fed-up with mr.bird then tell them to proceed
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smokie

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#28 Rastaman » 2012-08-16 16:17

It seems as if people really love lester once his name is mentioned everyone get excited....As for me I hit the ignore **on the Rastaman say so
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Rastaman

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#27 ANTIGUAN WOMAN » 2012-08-16 15:16

Hatred or fear, not sure, but for the informmation of some who may not be aware,the great US once had a President in a wheelchair by the name of Franklyn D roosvelt,he used his brain,not his legs.
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ANTIGUAN WOMAN

Lester Won't Resign

#26 A-Political » 2012-08-16 14:12

Dear MP Lester Bird,

I read in the article above that you recieved your information from caribarena news however, I hope and pray that you are reading all of the negative comments about you not wanting to quit. I haven't seen one coment supporting you! Please reconsider and install Gaston NOW.
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A-Political

@Tenman

#25 Dig It » 2012-08-16 12:33

I see the point you made, which is very strong one! Tenman, I wish they will be a much viable solution to the Opposition's predicament. Yet, this doen't look like it will end in much "peacefully" and "united" manner, as any mentioned of relinquishing power seems to make a fist more tightly clinched! Like you said, "from my cold, dead hands!"
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Dig It

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#24 Cool Ruler » 2012-08-16 12:19

Lester as a lawyer you should know that the constitution of Antigua and Barbuda supersedes that of your party so if the majority of ALP elected members wanted it the GG would have no choice but to oblige once they advise her in writing. By the way, Tenman dont you know that politics make strange bedfellows? So Tanny and Brown singing from the same hymn sheet may not be too far fetched.
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Cool Ruler

DiGIt - Bird digs a deeper grave

#23 tenman » 2012-08-16 11:54

The Constitution of the ALP at Section 8.9.1.1 commands that “The Political Leader of the Party shall serve as the parliamentary leader…and [be] the person entitled to head any government formed by the Party…

DigIt our own (ANU) constitution states the person who the GG feels has the support of the majority of opposition members is made leader of the opp in parliament. If what MP Bird suggests of the ALP constitution is true, then after the 2004 election he (MP Bird) should never have been political leader of the ALP. The post should have gone to an elected MP selected by the party members which then made Bird an illegal leader. The argument at the time when Dr. Heat was replaced as leader of the UPP party is that he was not an elected MP and so the post fell to BS.

..
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tenman

What have you done for me lately...Antigu a needs a Opposition?

#22 Dig It » 2012-08-16 11:24

Sometimes, we are our own enemy! MP Bird has pointed to our Constitution, as the reason why he shouldn't "relinquish" his position as Parliamentarian Leader, muchless, Political Leader. They are many, including, some in his party that see it differently! A "rapacious" and "non-performing " UPP Government doesn't mean the ALP should sit on their behind and think they will win in 2014. We have yet to see a Opposition that is ready, willing and able to fight the UPP Government in all corners of this land or at sea! We have yet to see the Opposition make a Citizens Arrest, with all the "wasteful" spending, and mismanagement of the economy! And a Loyal Opposition that "talk the talk, and walk the walk," as they haven't done one successful march or picket for the year! I symparthize with MP Bird or anyone with a "back-ailment" but it comes a point when we have to ask ourselves: Am I "selfishly" hurting my party or organization if my "immobility" is causing me to display fitness in carrying out my duties and functions in the best interests of the country? Even if some of us may think so, they will always be people around us that will us that it is all a "frigment-of-ou r-imagination!"
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Dig It

From Bad to Worse

#21 ALP Supporter » 2012-08-16 10:40

Who ever is writing Lester's press releases is not doing him any favors. Statements highlighting performance issues and the poorness of Lester's health, only reinforces the need for a transition.

As an Antiguan first, and an ALP supporter second, I will always put the nation before party. Antigua and Barbuda needs a vibrant ALP at this time to give all of us (Red, Blue and Undecided), the hope for a better tomorrow. The ALP must get its act together.

If Lester can't put the nation's and party's interest before his own ego then the ALP members of parliament must do the right thing and remove him. Lester should not be allowed to be the fiddler while Antigua burns.
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ALP Supporter

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#20 Vicnes » 2012-08-16 10:28

Those executive members of the ALP are extremely naive to think that Bird will agree to step down. Why should he step down when it was not stated that he is mentally unfit to do his job? There are many other leaders around the world that are even more physically challenged than Lester and they are able to perform their duties.
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Vicnes

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#19 UNITED STATES » 2012-08-16 10:16

He is sounding like a dictator to me.Hold on to power at all cost.The ALP needs to get an infusion of young blood.People with new vision and ideas to move the country forward.This man is so hungry for power.Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.Here is an idea,elect a new leader.If he does not step down resign from the party.Form a third party or run as independent candidates.He comes across as if he is the Labor Party.Those days are long over,the sun already set beyond his horizon.
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UNITED STATES

Like Father Like Son

#18 Observer Overseas » 2012-08-16 10:15

Mr. Bird's view of leadership is no different from that of his father - and for that matter most other Caribbean leaders: Nothing good happens without me. So Mr. Bird wants to lead the party into the next election. Then what? If he is unable to effectively lead his party in opposition, how on earth can he expect to lead it, and the country, when the demands are much greater and the stakes much higher.
He would do well at this stage of his life to focus on his health and family. Mr. Bird, its time for fishing, golf and grandchildren :-)
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Observer Overseas

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#17 Truth » 2012-08-16 10:05

The truth will set you free Lester. Your back could not hold up and that is why you did not attend. For those who had any doubts you have now confirmed that you are not fit to lead. Give it up Lester.
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Truth

Lester has to stay to protect xxxx!!

#16 Garrat. » 2012-08-16 09:53

xxxs IHI dealings with Baxxx is to keep Lester as leader to save DR xx. He gets some acess to a few frozen funds and keeps ALP plans flowing to the UPP.
NO EASY WIN FOR LABOR..
If Labor happen to sweeze through with Lester ,xxxx is KING again! If Labor losses ,Lester,Robin ,Moywyn ,Benjimen, Gail,Max,ect will be finished. xxxx will then take over Labor with his puppet PM and Rule again!
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Garrat.

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#15 Anonymous » 2012-08-16 09:42

Tenman I heard Tanny with that argument at Recreation Grounds and I dont recall seeing Brown even though there were some known ALP members there. Its public knowledge that Bird cannot handle the rigors of the job. I think it is a good idea but Bird is too selfish. The Parliamentarian s should move him by force if he does not cooperate.
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Anonymous

Bird refuses to resign

#14 heavenhelpantigua » 2012-08-16 09:05

Gaston and your bosom buddie Asot, what will be your next move, eh?
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heavenhelpantigua

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#13 R. Berry » 2012-08-16 08:52

There are times (too many nowadays), when head is not brain....unfort unately for Mr. Bird, this is one of those moments.

His continuance will ensure once again the defeat of the ALP. The only good thing coming out of this is that the leader of the UPP, does not realize that he should call elections at the earliest and take advantage of the ALP in its weakened state.
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R. Berry

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#12 naiomi » 2012-08-16 08:45

Lester what is it you don't understand if you dont remove yourself from leadership of ALP CRAPPO SMOKE LABOUR PIPE IN 2014.
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naiomi

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#11 SlyThatGuy » 2012-08-16 08:11

Sometimes it's good if Lester Bird does not try to explain himself,because when he does, he only makes himself look bad,and the situation becomes more difficult. After stating that he absented himself from the assembly because he was trying to avoid a "contentious start",he went on to say,"The question of sitting for an extended period was not very attractive,on Friday,August 20,2012,since my back was inflamed and I could NOT stand for long periods on that day. Some days are better than others,since the operation on my back several months ago." That explanation is not only weak but it contradicts what he offered earlier as a legitimate excuse. What he is saying,in effect,is that his bad back obviated(Preven ted)him from attending the OECS Assembly.He could not have made it even if he wanted to because,by his own admission,on that day he could not stand for long periods.
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SlyThatGuy

@ Lester B

#10 Jimmy » 2012-08-16 07:47

You behaving like Mugabe! Just step down and let Maulwyn take over the Party! Robin is a buffoon and Gaston an upstart!
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Jimmy

resolve

#9 justin » 2012-08-16 07:45

The only good thing, is that the ALP Leadership can be resolved well before next elections so that a clear and stable party leadership can evolve to get the present communist destroyers of our once proud nation back into the gutter where they came from!
In my view Lester has made his contribution and should look to the good of his party and Country, he can make a larger statement by being the "elder statesman & tactician. If his back (and other ailments) cannot allow him to sit for periods of time now- he will be worse in 18 months time!
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justin

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#8 observer » 2012-08-16 07:23

Its going on two years since you had your back operation how much longer are you going to use it as an excuse ? It is pellucid, it is clear, obvious that you cant make it yet you still holding on to power. Anyway, you are in for a rude awakening at the next elections. Stand down Lester.
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observer

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#7 observer » 2012-08-16 07:17

Lester you should resign and stop hold the party to ransom.
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observer

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#6 Herby » 2012-08-16 07:13

So one xxxorts not only the man up above can beat him during an election...is this one now xxxxting not even the man up above can remove him?
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Herby

Bird na move

#5 PLM » 2012-08-16 07:05

If Bird na move, then me must be kicked out. Gaston needs to get a backbone, and stop prancing around the issue. It’s time to notify the GG that Lester no longer has majority support among the opposition benches. If Gaston doesn’t act now, the ALP will end up with “kamakaze” Bird as the leader.
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PLM

from my cold, dead hands

#4 tenman » 2012-08-16 06:06

Quote:
"I'll give you my gun (opposition leader in the house) when you pry it from my cold, dead hands!" Charlton Heston May 2000
Bird's reluctance though he argues it shows his willingness to sacrifice, instead does his party harm. Its reminiscent of the worker who brings the flue to the office because he tells himself his presence is more important.

I have heard suggestions that the idea to remove bird as opposition leader in the house (not the party) is the brain child of MP Browne. Truth be known it was first publicly suggested via ZDK's morning program about 3 weeks ago, by James Tanny Rose. Rose argued the change was necessary because Bird could not fulfill the requirements of the office due to his health. I can't see Rose pushing the suggestion at the behest of MP Browse since both men have been at odds since the selection of T. Lake for the 2009 election.

..
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tenman

RE: Bird Refuses to Resign

#3 Audley Dave Joseph » 2012-08-16 05:57

This is quite an "interesting" media statement. All I would say, is that this reminds me of the whole "escapade and confusion" the leader of the opposition did not return when the vote of no confidence was to have been tabled. Seems to me as if poor people are still in for "a long bumpy ride".
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Audley Dave Joseph

lame

#2 honesty » 2012-08-16 05:51

This ALP saga is really tiring. These speeches writen by Lionel Hurst are honestly now full of "excreta". Seriously?
LB needs to really search himself, think for himself and realise that he cannot lead the Party, much less govern Antigua, through speeches!!!!!!!!!!
Let go already!!!!!!!! !!!!!! My gosh :sad:
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honesty

Friday August 20, 2012

#1 Jumbee Picknee » 2012-08-16 04:33

Either Mr. Bird's letter was not edited properly or Caribarena made a typographical mistake. August 20, 2012 has NOT yet arrived and when it does, it will not be a Friday.
However, it is clear from the statements made in the letter by Mr. Bird, shows that he has his own agenda, and it is clearly NOT in the best interest of the Citizens of Our Nation, the Citizens of the OECS, or the ALP.
There's a sayimg, "once a man and twice a child."
He is behaving like a spoilt American brat/child which he is by birth, a man who has lost touch and cannot cope with the realities before him AND a child that needs a spanking. (A mental Spanking). Someone, who is close to him should give him that spanking, otherwise, to "spare the rod and spoil this child," will be disastrous for him. HE MIGHT END UP COUNTING LEAVES ON G**. Spare yourself the embara$$ment...
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Jumbee Picknee

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