I was only a child, just nine years old when this glorious event occurred yet I have vivid memories of the jubilation experienced by young and old when the old yoke of colonialism fell for good. Gone was the terrible history of undemocratic control by those who fancied themselves rulers of people because of their military, industrial and economic might and in their place a new breed of visionary leaders undergirded by the rule of law as established by our own Constitution.

On this 27th Anniversary of Independence, unfortunately, I have cause to pause and reflect on the many ways in which that old pattern of rule has returned to our shores. Again we are confronted by those who wish to rule by the might of the army on Election Day and outside of the Constitution and the rule of law.  It is ironic that recent events in the High Court have happened at this particular time as they serve as a timely reminder that independence and all that it means can never be taken for granted.

I must especially acknowledge and congratulate the young people of Sandy Point and Fig Tree who have demonstrated the meaning of independence with the inauguration of SPIRIT. I have been proud to observe as these youth have taken the lead in mobilizing their community for the betterment of all rather than wait for any hand-outs.

I wish all my constituents and my fellow citizens a safe and Happy Independence.