by Linda Straker
- Public Service Regulations prohibit established public servants engaging in open political activities
- Disciplinary action includes note of discipline and behaviour warning
- Officer removed from post in similar incident in neighbouring territory
Opposition Leader and New National Party (NNP) Political Leader Emmalin Pierre is not satisfied with the disciplinary actions taken against Amanda Jack, a registration/returning officer for the sub office of the Parliamentary Elections Office (PEO) in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, who was photographed engaging in political work for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Approximately 6 weeks after disclosing that she had written to Governor-General Dame Cecile La Grenade expressing her concern about the direct political activities of Jack, Pierre said the punishment is too minor for the offence committed.
“Tonight I wish to say to you that I have received a response that the matter was investigated. I have seen the report of the officer in question. I have seen the report of the Supervisor of Elections. I have seen the written note of the action and intention of the Supervisor of Elections and the Governor-General,” she said, addressing a political meeting on Tuesday night. “An action which said they are going to do two things: (1) to put a note of discipline in her file and (2) to warn her of her behaviour. The NNP will not accept this level of discipline for such a grave offence against the people of this country, and so I have written to the Governor-General asking that this letter and this decision be reconsidered.”
She reminded the meeting of a similar incident in a neighbouring territory where that officer was removed from the post.
The Parliamentary Elections Office falls under the jurisdiction of the Governor-General who is the authority responsible for appointing and revoking returning officers to the position. Complaints about registration/returning officers should also be sent to her office.
Jack, an educator by profession, was appointed to the position in the first quarter of 2023. During the first quarter of 2025, she was photographed at 2 NDC political meetings wearing a t-shirt displaying the colour and symbol of the party. It is also against the Public Service Regulations for established public servants to engage in open political activities.
Pierre stated that anyone holding such a position should not be engaging in open political activities because it can create a perception of conflict and bias.
