Condemning Intimidation Tactics by Minister Ernest Hilaire Against the Media

The recent actions of Minister Ernest Hilaire in threatening legal action against media houses reporting on the Billion Dollar Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment scandal are deeply troubling and unacceptable. This scandal, which has been unfolding over the past two years, is a matter of significant public interest. The media’s role in investigating and reporting on such issues is not only fundamental to a functioning democracy but is also enshrined in the principles of free speech and press freedom.

Minister Hilaire’s intimidation tactics against members of the media for simply doing their job are an affront to these principles. Resorting to threats of legal action to silence journalists is a clear attempt to stifle transparency and accountability. It is an abuse of power designed to suppress the truth and prevent the public from being informed about critical issues affecting our nation.

In a democracy, the press must be free to investigate, report, and hold those in power accountable without fear of retribution. Minister Hilaire’s actions set a dangerous precedent and undermine the very fabric of our democratic society. It is imperative that we stand in solidarity with the media and defend their right to report freely and without intimidation.

The Saint Lucian people deserve to know the full truth about the Citizenship by Investment scandal. Transparency and accountability are not optional in governance; they are essential. Minister Hilaire must cease his attempts to bully the media into silence and instead address the concerns raised with honesty and integrity.

We call on all citizens to support our media institutions in their pursuit of the truth and to reject any efforts to curtail press freedom. Let us uphold the values of democracy, transparency, and accountability for the betterment of our society.