Lewis: Citizens Must Unite or Risk Losing Constitutional Protections

By Mark DaCosta- In a scathing critique of our nation’s political landscape, veteran trade unionist Lincoln Lewis highlights the urgent need for unity among citizens to tackle the pressing issues facing our country today. He warns that without collective action and adherence to the constitutional principles that govern us, the future of our nation hangs in the balance, rendering the supposed progress made since independence mere illusion.

Lewis paints a vivid picture of despair permeating society, where individuals oscillate between hopelessness and a desperate scramble for survival. He laments that a large section of the population appears resigned to compromising their principles, choosing to align with wrongdoing just to secure basic necessities. This unsettling reality, he argues, is a betrayal of the dreams our forebears had for a society founded on dignity and respect for all.

According to the veteran advocate, our country is currently embroiled in a series of intricate challenges that demand immediate attention. Yet, despite these mounting difficulties — both domestic and international — our political leaders remain entrenched in divisive squabbles. Instead of collaborating to address common concerns, they are intent on blaming the very Constitution designed to uphold our rights and freedoms. It is an unfortunate irony that, “in so far as the Constitution exists, Government and Opposition are bound by oath… to uphold it in spirit, intent and to the letter,” while the reality reflects a betrayal of this obligation.

The disillusionment intensifies as Lewis criticises the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for disregarding the constitutional framework from which it derives its authority. He points out that the government, despite its electoral mandate, has shown a troubling tendency to sidestep the very laws it was elected to uphold. This selective adherence poses a significant threat to the foundational concept of inclusionary democracy enshrined in Article 13 of our Constitution. The observer sternly states, “this very Constitution makes clear that this nation belongs to all of us,” calling into question the government’s commitment to fair and equitable treatment of all citizens.

The opposition is not above reproach either, as Lewis stresses that it has a duty to the electorate that goes beyond party politics. Whether defined as a coalition or not, it must work towards a unified agenda that genuinely represents the interests of the populace and adheres to constitutional principles. He expresses disappointment at the fragmentation within the opposition, asserting that members unnecessarily empower the ruling party by failing to present a unified front. It is crucial for opposition members to realise that, “by refusing to see the power of united opposition,” they inadvertently assist in fostering a government that disregards inclusionary democracy.

While Lewis acknowledges that differing views and priorities are natural within a parliamentary system, he emphasises the importance of ensuring actions align with the Constitution’s requirements. He challenges the notion that we should consider changing the Constitution without first understanding its provisions, reminding us that, “any change to the Constitution must be done in accordance with the Constitution itself.” Failing to grasp this fundamental truth could lead to further erosion of our rights.

The stakes are high for the coming generations, with Lewis revealing a looming crisis that threatens the education and welfare of our youth. He warns that while the political class obsesses over trivial disputes, vital educational and developmental initiatives for young citizens are systematically neglected. This failure to act could condemn future generations to a life of poverty, crime, and social unrest. “Society cannot function on individualism alone,” he asserts, urging a reevaluation of our collective responsibilities as citizens.

The grave implications of leadership failing to uphold principles of governance are underscored in Lewis’s commentary on the necessity of consultation and accountability. He finds it particularly alarming when leaders suggest that winning an election absolves them of the need for dialogue with the populace they govern. “If you respect your fellow citizens, you cannot deny them a voice in decisions that affect their lives,” he declares, thus reinforcing the urgency of maintaining civic engagement in our democratic processes.

As our nation grapples with these challenges, it becomes clear that citizens must rally together. Lewis encourages the youth to take charge and advocate for their rights, asserting that, “if you do not, others will continue to decide your future without you.” The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated: it is only through collective action, adherence to our constitutional tenets, and respect for each other’s rights that we can hope to reclaim our nation and foster an environment where all citizens are afforded the dignity and respect they deserve. The time for passive observation is over; it is now imperative that we rise, unite, and strive for the nation our forebears fought to build.