Women’s Group Condemns Opposition Leader’s Derogatory Comments Towards Speaker

The United Women’s Group (UWG) has issued a release to condemn what they have labeled as the, ‘recent derogatory and defamatory’ comments made by the Leader of the Opposition addressed to Speaker of the House. According to the UWG, the remarks by Moses Shyne Barrow have not only undermined the dignity of the office, but it has also tarnished the essence of respectful and constructive political discourse that is essential for the functioning of our democratic institutions.  The release went on to read, in part, quote, “As an organization dedicated to promoting women’s rights, equality, and fair representation, we are appalled by the disrespectful language and unfounded personal attacks directed to the Speaker.”  End of quote.  Interestingly, during Friday’s proceedings, member for Fort George, Henry Charles Usher, did put the only woman representative for the opposition, Tracy Panton, asking if she is in agreement with the disrespect against the Speaker of the House.

Also issuing a statement on the issue was the group of PUP Women Parliamentarians.  The release states, quote, “The Leader of the Opposition continues to display a most disturbing pattern of conducting himself in a manner unbecoming of a parliamentarian and that of an honorable member in his engagement with Madam Speaker Valerie Woods. His sustained attacks on her, the disrespect and utmost disregard for her authority as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and for the institution of parliament and the principles upon which it stands and for which she represents, can no longer be countenanced. His latest written attack is disgusting and beyond the pale of any proper conduct of an elected representative and member of the National Assembly. We therefore call for a strong reprimand by the National Assembly and for forceful condemnation of Hon. Barrow’s unacceptable conduct. We also call upon the Leader of the Opposition to forthwith issue an apology and to cease and desist from engaging in this unbecoming and disgraceful behavior, and to show respect for the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the principles upon which the institution of parliament must stand.” End of quote.