Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves has issued a stinging critique of Minister of National Security St. Clair Leacock, accusing him of over-speaking and failing to understand the boundaries of his ministerial role. In a recent address, Gonsalves characterized Leacock’s public utterances as “discordant sounds,” comparing the Minister to a musical instrument that is not properly tuned.
Gonsalves suggested that Leacock, who is in his mid-70s, requires better guidance on what information should be shared with the public. He argued that an “over-speaking minister of national security” is detrimental to governance, particularly when the Minister adopts a “hard-nosed military” tone.
The Opposition Leader specifically took issue with Leacock’s recent comments regarding security measures for the Carnival season. While police officials typically provide standard advisories about increased presence and law-abiding behavior, Gonsalves claimed Leacock went too far by threatening that those who “behave bad” would be denied bail by magistrates.
“Since when Leacock become a magistrate?” Gonsalves questioned, asserting that the Minister was attempting to usurp the role of the judiciary by declaring what the law regarding bail would be over the holiday period. He described this behavior as an attempt to “badge on to people” rather than encouraging a peaceful and celebratory atmosphere.
The critique extended to the broader performance of the current administration, with Gonsalves using a cricket metaphor to describe Leacock and his colleagues. He asserted that the government officials are “not ready for test cricket,” dismissively labeling them as “cor match” players who are unfit for the high-level demands of national governance.
Gonsalves further noted that Leacock’s parliamentary actions, such as seconding the motion to adjourn the House during contentious debates over constitutional amendments, reflect a government that has lost the trust and confidence of the Vincentian people.