Political Challenges Mark 19th Congress of Guadeloupe Officials Amid Key Absences
The 19th Congress of Guadeloupe's elected officials sees key political absences and criticisms over inclusivity.
Key Points
- • The congress focused on institutional evolution amid notable political absences.
- • Key figures Félix Flémin and Alain Plaisir were absent, highlighting inclusivity concerns.
- • Critiques centered on the political framework's colonial impact and the need for public debate.
- • Calls for new fiscal competencies to protect local production were emphasized by leaders.
The 19th Congress of elected officials in Guadeloupe, held on June 7, 2023, was characterized by significant absences of key political figures, notably Félix Flémin, the secretary-general of the Guadeloupean Communist Party (PCG), and Alain Plaisir, president of the CIPPA. Both expressed concern over the congress's lack of effectiveness and inclusivity in addressing critical local issues.
Flémin criticized the process as failing to engage with the island's pressing needs, claiming he was not invited and calling for an elected congress to redefine Guadeloupe's relationship with France. He argued that the current political framework perpetuates colonial legacies, deepening the suffering of the inhabitants.
Plaisir echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for new fiscal and customs competencies to safeguard local production from foreign competition under free trade agreements. He argued that merging regional and departmental authorities would not necessarily grant any new powers to the local governance structure.
Deputy Christian Baptiste added to the criticism by challenging the limitations imposed by Article 73 of the French Constitution on local development, emphasizing issues such as youth emigration and high living costs. He advocated for a public debate that would encompass the perspectives of citizens and stakeholders, aligning with Article 74 to push for a more autonomous governance model. The absence of other notable political figures, including Jocelyn Sapotille and Senator Victorin Lurel, highlights the wider dissatisfaction among certain factions regarding the congress's ability to effectively address Guadeloupe's political and economic challenges.
The ongoing discontent signals a call for a more inclusive and responsive political framework in Guadeloupe as officials and citizens navigate the complexities of their governance.