Charles Kirnon Calls for Stronger Democratic Governance and National Unity

Strengthening Democratic Governance: One Parliament, One People

Introduction

Madame Speaker, Honourable Members of Parliament, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens. We gather today at a critical juncture in our democratic journey. The theme of this year’s opening “Strengthening Democratic Governance: One Parliament, One People,” is not just a slogan. It is an urgent call to action. It reminds us that parliament is not a battleground for partisan warfare. It is the sacred house of the citizens. Every seat in this chamber represents the hopes, the struggles, and the future of all our people. Today, we must confront a growing truth: the bond of trust between the governed and those who govern is unravelling. We must fix it.

The national motto is: A people of excellence, moulded by nature, nurtured by God

The Core of Democratic Governance

Democratic governance is more than holding elections every five years. It is about what happens between those elections. It is about accountability, transparency, and inclusion.

• Accountability and the Rule of Law: Leaders must answer to the public for their actions and decisions truthfully and honestly. No individual no matter their office is above the law
• Transparency: Government processes must be open to public scrutiny.  Every citizen should see how laws are made, how public funds are allocated and how their representatives vote. Democracy thrives in the light and withers in the shadows. When we open our door, as we have done for some time now, we build unshakeable public trust.
• Inclusion: We are a tapestry of different cultures, beliefs and traditions but as a people we share one destiny – to develop Montserrat for us to live work and enjoy life. Every citizen must feel represented, regardless of their background or beliefs. They must be given the opportunity to participate in discussion on laws and other policies. After the first reading of the bills there is an opportunity to discuss with the public. It is the duty of all Members to do so. True strength lies in a parliament and its institutions that serve the common good.

The Role of Parliamentarians

To my colleagues in politics, we must remember our primary duty. We are servants, not masters. (This assembly comprises the Executive or Government and the Opposition.) Therefore, you must ensure that:

• National progress always out ranks partisan victories
• You engage with constituents regularly, not just during campaign season
• You reject corruption and bribery and defend ethical standards in public office
• You disagree on policy without dividing the nation
• You learn and adhere to the rules of this house.

The parliament must not be used to grand stand, and politicise every issue.  The Legislative Assembly is to primarily make laws and discuss policies and allocate funds. I cannot over emphasise the importance of reading documents and laws for debate. It would strengthen the parliament if bills are debated with the same fervour as question time. Bills, including the Appropriation Bill should be debated as the rule states. For example, when the estimates are given, the Cabinet Members who pass them should not be needing time for debate, nor does the Opposition. On receipt of the estimates in preparation for debate, you check the current year’s figures against the previous years and check for increases or decreases and make your notes.  For instance, if you see the Access line decreased and then the budget speech says there will be ferry service for a year, then you rise and debate that point.

Secondly, Ministers should refrain from coming to the House and make speeches about going back to the Minister of Finance for more money right after they pass the budget.

The Role of the General Public

To the public, your role does not end at the ballot box. You are the ultimate custodians of our democracy.

• Stay Informed: Seek facts over rumours. Ensure the source is authentic and hold media sources to high standards. The old saying, “Do not wash your dirty linen in public or not everything good to eat is good to talk about,” is instructive. You never know who is listening, so guard your tongue. (This can be applied to the Parliamentarians as well)
• Demand Better: Hold your elected officials accountable through peaceful, constructive action.
• Participate Daily: Join community groups, attend town halls, and vote in every election. The right to vote was gained on the blood sweat and tears of our forebears and should never be taken for granted.  Join a political party, join the unions, hold your representatives accountable. Feel free to disagree, without being disagreeable
• Run for political office.
• Reject Division: Refuse to let political parties divide neighbours, families, and communities. We seek the same destiny so we find strength in diversity not division.

A vibrant democracy requires an active, critical, and engaged citizenry. Your voice is the most powerful check on political power.

Bridging the Gap: One People

How do we turn the phrase “One People” into a reality? We bridge the gap between parliament and the public through concrete structural reforms.

• Open Parliament Initiatives: Broadcast committee hearings and publish voting records clearly online.
• Civic Education: Invest heavily in teaching democratic values, the rules of the House, the laws and parliamentary procedures in schools – to the general public.
• Create digital portals for direct public feedback on Bills.

When citizens see their input shaping policy, trust is restored. When politicians view public feedback as a tool rather than a threat, governance improves.

Conclusion

Let us leave this room with a renewed commitment to each other.

To the politicians: Let your work in Parliament reflect the diverse faces of our nation. Tough decisions must be made for the long-term benefit of all. Remember that though all should sing from the same song sheet, in this era of one Montserrat – one people, it doesn’t mean that all will sing the same part, for there is soprano, alto, tenor, base and even those who sing off key. So let all tunes content in the interest of Montserrat.

Governance is not a popularity contest.

To the public: keep watching, keep questioning, and keep participating. We are not two opposing factions of rulers and subjects. We are one people, bound by a shared destiny, working together through a Parliament that truly belongs to everyone. Let us strengthen our democracy today, so it may protect our children tomorrow.

I leave the following questions for your reflection

• Does Democracy mean that the will of a benefactor must always prevail?
  • How many of the present developed countries were actually developed under democracy?

While you are thinking about those, I close with two verses of Our Montserrat territorial song:

“Oh Montserrat, proud motherland, your children raise your standard high.

In toil and tears to serve you well

The Emerald Jewel from Gods hand.

We sing out land in Harmony

May God be her eternal guard

And make Montserrat a house of Hope

A heaven in the Carib Sea

Oh Montserrat, by nature blest

To you your children sing

Come well or woe, come friend or foe

To you your children cling

Thank you, and may our collective efforts bring prosperity to all.