By Tahna Weston
The Police Welfare Association (PWA) is expressing its dissatisfaction with the management of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) as it seeks to have recommendations in the 2023 strategic plan implemented.
In a letter dated July 19, 2024, addressed to the Minister of Public Safety and Labour, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin, the PWA compared the tenure of the current Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney to that of former commissioners in both pre- and post-independence eras.
In its correspondence, the PWA noted that even though a significant majority of the former commissioners did not possess the undergraduate or tertiary level education as is now the case, they were able to effectively mitigate national, regional and, in some cases, challenges in the international sphere.
Mention was made of Sir Wright George, who headed the RPFAB from 1974 to 1990, and was able to successfully lead the organisation with his focus geared towards one common purpose (both individually and institutionally) of ensuring the safety and security of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Association is of the opinion that unlike the leadership style of the current hierarchy, past commissioners promoted the requisite leadership seeking to inspire and transfer a vision for the organization.
“They empower those around them to achieve results collectively and efficiently managing their priorities, while maintaining a high standard of discipline necessary in a paramilitary organization,” the PWA wrote.
“Law enforcement purpose in this sense means, ‘The original intent for the creation of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.’ Leadership, on the other hand, means, ‘The capacity to influence others through inspiration generated by a passion, motivated by a vision and birth by a conviction,’” the letter stated.
According to the organization which is mandated to look into the welfare of police officers, ensuring that their rights are protected, the RPFAB is not being run by the above mentioned standards.
It expressed the opinion that former commissioner Wendel Alexander, who left the force in 2018, left an organization on a more stable footing, and he had a clear sense of purpose of what the force could achieve, in spite of whatever shortcomings he was accused of by the powers that be.
It was noted the effect of Alexander’s leadership was not only seen, but felt by the entire force as he was able to balance his priorities, enabling him to efficiently handle many critical issues, which redounded to the benefit of the organisation.
“The same cannot be said today,” the PWA said. “Leadership matters in families, communities, societies, institutions, and governments. The pertinent function of the police organisation is to provide service which is a precondition for hope and trust of the public.”
Commissioner Rodney is being accused of not having the proper transitioning plan in place, but has surrounded himself with a small clique of friends while crime grips the nation and the RPFAB is in disarray.
The association said it is very concerned about the force’s direction, the many issues involving young people, and the plethora of social ills now plaguing Antigua and Barbuda, including an increase in crime.
The body attributes this to the current state of the police high command, which it deems is causing irreparable damage between the police and the public.
Reportedly, the PWA was present when a draft strategic plan was highlighted to the RPFAB in June 2023, but since then nothing further has been stated about its implementation.
It is of the view that the enforcement of this plan would give strategic direction to the police force, which is sadly lacking. It believes that what now exists is an organisation filled with men and women who are concerned only about their personal gain and recognition.
When contacted, the PWA executive refused to comment and so did Sir Steadroy who referred to the matter as internal and confidential.
