By Kenrick Quashie
Let me share a real and personal example of how deep the rot of political victimisation runs under this wicked ULP administration.
My older brother, Desrick Quashie, has served this country with distinction as a police officer for 19 years. He is highly qualified, holding a Master’s Degree in security and intelligence, which he paid for himself. He has also represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines with pride and distinction, serving for two years with CARICOM – IMPACS in Trinidad and Tobago.
Over the years, Desrick has received commendations from countless local and foreign high-level dignitaries to whom he has provided close protection services. His professionalism and dedication are unquestionable.
Yet, despite all of this; despite his impeccable service record, year after year, he continues to be blatantly passed over for promotion. Since returning from his studies in the UK more than seven years ago, he has remained stuck at the rank of corporal. Nothing since.
Here’s the bitter truth: the political leadership of the ULP has openly said he will never be promoted because of my political stance. Yes, you read that correctly. Because of my (his brother’s) politics.
Tell me, why must my brother, a hardworking, disciplined, and patriotic officer should be victimised for what I believe? Why should his career be held hostage by political spite?
Ask any senior police officer who holds the rank of inspector and above in the RSVPF about Desrick Quashie. They will tell you he is more than deserving of promotion. And if you ask them why he hasn’t been promoted, they will tell you the same thing: because of partisan politics.
But shame on the current and former commissioners of police, who have the legal authority to make appointments up to the rank of sergeant, yet have refused to act out of fear of the political directorate. That is cowardice, plain and simple.
The promotion process in the police force is deeply flawed, unfair, and politically tainted.
This kind of victimisation has no place in a democracy.
It must end.
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Assuming that the facts as stated herein are correct, then this post does not need additional comment. It speaks for itself. The question here is are we to see further close mouthed and shut eyes reaction from those who are clearly indicted by what is set out herein. Will anyone step forward to challenge and redo what is put here? Failure to do so could only as assumed as confirmation, and in that instance it indeed demonstrates egregious disregard for proper management and governance not only with respect to the police service, but points fingers fully to the nature of governance of the country! So, indeed “enough is enough “! There must be a reckoning imposed by the governed, the electorate and citizens of the country!
I understand, I hold mutiple degrees , represented the country at the highest level and due to partisan politics, I hav been at the same level for the last 19 years. At this rate, I prefer to leave the service and go work in another country than continue. I anticipate there will be an exodus of government employees ( teachers, public servants, nurses etc.) out of SVG in the ne t five years.
Many have failed to see the authoritarian tendencies developing right under our noses. How can one party rule for nearly twenty-five years? While only bringing excuses. Are there no other people in SVG capable of running this country? Free galvanize and cement around election time have blinded many to the high crime rate, high unemployment, and underdevelopment. It’s a system that seems designed to keep us complacent.
If what I am reading here is correct it’s sad. A level playing field should be created for all. What are the criteria for promotion then? I don’t believe that these esteemed gentlemen and women who are responsible for this process will overlook someone out of political spite.. Desrick was my school mate at the Grammer school I know he always have potential so I do hope and trust that he will continue to work hard in the interest of justice for a better SVG
The ULP party from top to bottom is dirty, spiteful and malicious. It all emanated from Ralph Gonsalves with his playacting smiles and numerous hugs to fool stupid and ignorant Vincentians. The shame is many who support him know how he treats any opposition and are willing and supportive in him doing that. But decent folk see it for what it is, pure and simple nepotism at its worst.
Don’t agree with political victimization, that’s if there’s any truth to that but Kenrick, you’re the author of your own demise!!!! Too many people learn their lessons TOO LATE when it comes to you!
My brother it’s every where, it’s in the teachers, nursing and every other department. Many nurses had retired as staff nurses after mentoring students who then got the promotions,. Is that right in God eyes? It’s like we are living in a communist country under a wicked evil cruel dictator., and those who allow such are worst than them.
Too many of these issues are impacting our workers, but Who is willing to”bell the cat”? ALL ah we fraid? Let’s hit the streets & denounce these backwards moves!
Sorry to be so cold hearted only been home for ten years 😭 what’s new, its clear unfortunately it’s not what you know ,but who you know. Sorry excuse my rudeness,Or who you prepared to bend over for, so so sad.