Apr. 05/2003 - A leading trade unionist has been approached and is considering joining those who will contest the next general elections as independent candidates, the Sun can reveal.

    Sonia Williams, president of the Public Service Union (PSU) has admitted that she may be part of the race for a seat in the bicameral parliament when the next elections are called.

    "Some discussion took place (about) the idea I may consider running as an independent candidate. (However), I've not really given that any full consideration," Williams confirmed in an interview.

    Like other potential independent candidates before her, Williams contended that the party political system had net served the country well.

    "What I am looking at is the impact that partisan politics has had on the minds of our people and the country on a whole," stated Williams.

    "If one is elected on a party ticket, it's is difficult for one to have an independent view on the various issues," she stated, adding that if she did run she would contest the Roseau South seat currently held by Ambrose George of the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) because "this is where I have lived my life…this is where my whole life has been centred."

    "If I were to make a decision it won't be for any political party because experience has left a bitter taste in my mouth," she said.

    The trade unionist said that she had been interested in politics "since I was in high school" but that her concept of a politician at the time was different from what was happening now.

    "In those days the politician was one who went into politics to help the poor people. Over the year, I'm getting a different picture. Things have changed," she said in a rueful tone.

    Williams, a school teacher, demonstrated her independence as an individual when she refused to leave the then Civil Service Association and be part of the Dominica Association of Teachers despite intense criticism by her colleagues.

    Her commitment to the CSA (now PSU) saw her rise to become president of the largest public service union in the country. As president, Williams has been at the centre of the current squabble with the government over its austerity measures and proposals to reduce the public service.

    "The idea (of contesting the elections as an independent) was presented to me, suggesting that I can make a contribution, seeing the way that I have performed as president of the union," Williams told the Sun. "But experience has taught me when trade unionists get into politics as trade unionist, one changes as an individual who cares about people to one who cares only about what he or she wants."

    And Williams stressed that she did not want to be seen as someone who used the PSU to enter politics.

    "People tell me I can make a change but our people's mindset is difficult to change. I do not want it said a few years down the line that Sonia Williams used the PSU to enter politics," the trade unionist said.

    A usually reliable source, which had earlier given the Sun details about the plans to have independent candidates contest the poll, said that Williams "has always been a prime candidate" who the DLP had tried to recruit for the 2000 elections.

    "People are looking for the pragmatic type. Doers," stated the source, adding that medical doctor, Carissa Etienne was one other such person who fitted that profile and who had also been approached.

    "Carissa has been approached to run. She was approached by the DLP in 2000. But it was a family decision (not to run). She is always a prime contender and she has other options open to her. She is exploring all her options, including taking up international assignments," said the usually reliable source that spoke on the usual condition of anonymity.

    "She would certainly be a part of any team from a management of country point of view. She has a role but I would not put her through a political campaign," added the source.

    Etienne told the Sun she had no interest in contesting the general elections.