Hector John Sworn in as Leader of the Opposition

Hector ‘Spags’ John, the United Workers Party’s Parliamentary Representative for the Salisbury Constituency, is now the new Leader of the Opposition. John was officially installed as the new Leader of the Opposition yesterday afternoon at a brief swearing in ceremony at the State House on Victoria Street in Roseau.

The Pledge of Allegiance and Oath of Office was administered by acting President of Dominica His Excellency Edward I Watty.

In taking the Oath of Office, the new Leader of Opposition pledged “to faithfully bear true allegiance to the Commonwealth of Dominica” and to “honour, uphold and preserve the constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica.”

John, who recaptured the Salisbury constituency in a by election on July 9 is 39. As a first term parliamentarian, he will be entering the House as the youngest Leader of the Opposition to serve in the Dominica Parliament. John is a graduate of Munro College and brings to his new assignment a wealth of experience in grassroots politics and community organization and leadership.

In congratulating John on his new appointment, his party leader, Ron Green, described him as a young man of great character who was ready to do the job. “John is honest, strongly people rooted, determined to succeed, intelligent and he has a good and godly heart. All of these add up to one word, character. These are the qualities I have seen in Hector John and I would suggest that Dominica needs them now more than ever before” he said.

Colleague and Marigot Mp Edison James, who himself was involved in a by election in his constituency also highlighted the strength of John’s character. He thanked him for the bold step he had taken in “responding to the call of his constituency, in responding to the call of his party and in responding to the call of the people of this country.” The former Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition reminded John that he had what it takes to lead the party and fight for democracy in the Parliament.

“I knew him in the banana industry and I can tell you as a former participant in that Industry so key to our economic survival, that if you could come through with such flying colorrs then you have what it takes and I have every confidence that you will do well.”

Honourable John, in accepting the charge as Leader of the Opposition said he did so with “much humility” and thanked his constituents, the leadership of the UWP and the people of Dominica for their enforcement.

“I have been serving on your behalf for a long time and I will continue to do that with pride, dignity and integrity” he said