Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit delivered a wide-ranging national press briefing and updated Dominicans on international engagements, government initiatives, electoral reforms and rising concerns regarding the political mis-information.
The press conference was streamed live that aimed to keep the public informed on the ongoing development agenda of the government, on Wednesday, Nov 12, 2025.
Electoral Reform and Confirmation Process
PM Skerrit addressed ongoing concerns about the voter registration confirmation process under the Registration of Electors Act 2025, which requires all voters to confirm their registration by October 14, 2026. More than 4,000 voters have already applied for confirmation.
He noted that while Parliament provided affordable alternative identification methods for voters without government-issued IDs, a recent Electoral Commission order unexpectedly removed the affidavit-based option. Skerrit urged the Commission to reconsider its decision to avoid disadvantages for elders and low-income citizens.
He also challenged the Commission’s suspension of new voter registration and stated that the body already has a working technology which enabled registration system and should provide a clear timeline for resuming services.
PM Skerrit Denounces Political Misinformation
The Prime Minister strongly criticised what he described as deliberate mis-information by United Workers Party leader – Dr. Thompson Fontaine, accusing him of misleading the public on ID requirements, confirmation eligibility, and alleged voting irregularities. Skerrit called on all political leaders and civic groups to condemn mis-information and safeguard the integrity of Dominica’s democratic institutions.
CELAC-EU Summit in Colombia
Prime Minister Skerrit reported on the participation in the CELAC-EU Leaders’ Meeting held in Santa Marta, Colombia. Heads of the Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union reaffirmed their commitments made to the democracy, with good governance, rule of law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
These leaders stressed the need for a more inclusive and representative United Nations and supported the call for the next UN Secretary-General to come from the region. He noted that the discussions included global conflicts, Ukraine and Gaza situations and the humanitarian impacts which affected populations.
This collective support for Haiti opposed the long-standing US economic embargo on Cuba. Climate resilience and clean energy transition were highlighted as priority areas, with Skerrit that showcased Dominica’s geothermal ambitions and climate-resilient development model.
Government Expands Solid Waste Management Services
PM Skerrit announced the handover of four new garbage trucks to the Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation, adding to the four vehicles delivered earlier with two more expected to be received in December. The eight-unit fleet expansion forms part of the government’s commitment to modernise waste collection and improve environmental health.
Skerrit reminded citizens that effective waste management requires collective responsibility and urged the public to dispose of waste properly, reduce littering and adopt recycling practices.
Parliament to Convene for Revenue Measures
Parliament is scheduled to hold a meeting on November 25, 2025, to give effect to several revenue measures outlined in this year’s national budget. Further details will be announced in the coming days.
He concluded the conference by urging all eligible citizens, at home and abroad, to confirm their registration and participate responsibly in the democratic process.