By Kisean Joseph
Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney has made it clear that he will not quit his position in the face of rising gun crime which has prompted calls for his departure.
Speaking on Observer’s Connecting with Dave Lester Payne show on Thursday, Rodney said, “I am resolute,” in response to a question posed to him about quitting the top cop role.
The Police Welfare Association (PWA) recently conveyed its dissatisfaction with the force’s current leadership in a letter addressed to the Minister of Public Safety Sir Steadroy Benjamin.
The body said it was concerned about the force’s direction and its relationship with the public amid problems with violence among youths and frequent armed robberies.
When questioned about those claims, Rodney expressed, “I’m not distracted, that’s distractions. Serving Antigua and Barbuda is much more important. Look at what we are facing today. I think that’s where our efforts should be addressed.
“So, there will always be distractions. There will always be criticism. But looking back on my 42 years, looking back at my training and my experience and what I have done over the years, I am not easily distracted. I am encouraged, even from criticism, to do better and to do more. So, I’m not focused on these things.”
When asked about his relationship with the PWA, which is mandated to look after the welfare of police officers, ensuring that their rights and interests are protected, Commissioner Rodney said, “On my end, I am prepared to work with all those that have the police force’s best interests.
“I am not antagonistic to any individual or any organisation. Once it’s for the betterment of the police force, you know, you don’t have to, as they say, put light and look for me. And you can look at my track record.
“Every rank that I have served, I have given my best. Even in this last rank that I have reached, given my best every day. So that is not something you can question. You can speak to my elders who have left the organisation.”
While the PWA has compared Rodney’s tenure and leadership to those of former Commissioners, including Wendel Alexander, Rodney does not agree with its criticism.
The Association is of the opinion that past Commissioners sought to inspire and promote a vision for the organisation, unlike the leadership style of the current hierarchy.
Rodney said, “You cannot question my morality in the organisation, you cannot question my integrity, you cannot question my competency, because it’s there for you to see. I am not the type of person that goes flying my banner.
“But I think my work speaks for itself, so I am not distracted. And my commitment until the day that I leave the organisation is to make the force a better force.”
