Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony called police officers called to greater leadership and the responsibility for retaining public trust.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) held a Promotions Ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 3. A total of 42 officers gained promotion; 27 were promoted from constable to corporal, 11 from corporal to sergeant, and four from sergeant to inspector.
The ceremony, held at the Derek Walcott Square, followed a mass at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and a parade through the streets of Castries.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony encouraged officers of the RSLPF to collaborate with the citizens whom they serve, and to accept the necessary mantle of leadership, at a time when good guidance is greatly needed.
“Today’s promotion must be a statement to those you serve that the police will lead in law enforcement and work together with the public - not against them - but with them and for them," he said.
“Today, every officer, and especially those who are being promoted, is being called to greater leadership. And as you well know, in the disciplined forces, with greater rank comes greater responsibility. Today, you are being promoted to greater duty and rightful expectation. It is what the force requires at all ranks, in all divisions, and in all stations, departments and units. At this juncture, leadership is not a luxury, but a necessity. I am therefore keen to see this new leadership among all ranks, and starting with you.”
The Prime Minister noted that it is important that the promotions process be seen as fair and transparent, ensuring that the best police officers are rewarded with advancement. The process, introduced in 2014, includes a written examination supervised by the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, a team exercise, an interview, and a polygraph test.
He also charged officers directly with the responsibility for retaining public trust.
“Public confidence in any police service is paramount. The police’s work would be stymied and become ineffectual if it does not engender community confidence and participation in law enforcement," he continued.
“In the past few months, we know of the deep challenges that have come to the fore regarding the alleged actions and involvement of some members of the force. This has meant challenges at all levels, from constable to commissioner, from police to politician. If we can sum up very succinctly what is at issue, it is this: no one is above the law. Everyone must be accountable for their actions. This applies not only to the parliamentarians who make the law, but also to those who are entrusted to administer and pronounce on the law in the name of the society.
“The law is your shield and your sword. It cannot and must never be used for purposes other than what the law ordains and authorizes. For me, the law is majestic; when a police officer uses the law as an instrument of revenge, spite and ill-will then he or she has no place in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force.”
The Prime Minister concluded his remarks by saluting the achievement of the new corporals, sergeants and inspectors and wishing them the best in their future professional development.
The symbols of rank were conferred by Acting Commissioner of the RSLPF, Errol Alexander.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport, Hon. Philip J. Pierre; and Minister of Legal Affairs, Home Affairs and National Security, Sen. Hon. Victor Philip La Corbiniere.
Click here for the full text of Dr. Anthony's speech.