Media Statement from Mr. Michael E. Misick, Former Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands
In light of an arrest warrant issued by the SIPT team to Michael Misick, the Former Premier responds with the following statement sent to RTC news:
My fellow Turks and Caicos Islanders, I address you today March 19, 2012,with a heavy heart as I have been left with no other choice than to seek political asylum in a third country other than my beloved Turks and Caicos Islands.
My reason for doing so is simple because of the political persecution that is taking place to me and my family, former Cabinet Ministers and their families and a select few developers who supported me and my Progressive National Party during my tenure as Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
I am convinced that this whole persecution is because of my views and firm plan to move our country towards Independence. This plan goes counter to the British and their supporters in theTurks and Caicos Islands. That is why stories were fabricated by the opposition, the British and their supporters in order to call for a Commission of Inquiry.
It is unprecedented for a Commission of Inquiry to be comprised of a sole commissioner. It is my view that Sir Robin Auld came to Turks and Caicos Islands with specific instructions from the Foreign Office as to what the outcome of the Commission of Inquiry will be. In short, the outcome was pre-determined.
To add insult to injury, they have bypassed the entire legal system by appointing a Special Prosecutor whose primary goal is to get rich of the backs of Turks and Caicos Islands' tax payers and to make a name for herself. Helen Garlick has already collected over $20 million of Turks and Caicos Islands tax payers' money and is slated to collect at least another $10 million in 2012, at a time when the interim government is laying off hundreds of civil servants, cutting pensions and other benefits and increasing taxes.
There is no way that I, or any of the persons that have been accused by Helen Garlick and her team, can get a fair trial. The British Government, aided by two governors, Gordon Wetherell and now Ric Todd, have abolished our fundamental right to jury trial.
They have also suspended democracy. The Governor and the prosecutor control the executive, the legislative and the judiciary. They have changed so many laws such as the Proceeds of Crime Bill, laws pertaining to evidence, laws pertaining to hearsay all in an attempt to convict me and my colleagues.
If we have done something illegal why is there a need to change so many laws in order to secure a conviction? Why could we not be tried under the same system that thousands of people were tried under over the years? Why did they have to abolish our Parliament and the Executive? Is it so that they, including the prosecutor, can change the laws and the entire judicial system uninhibited without the normal checks and balances that exist in a democracy to ensure their goal which is the conviction of me and my colleagues?
If another country had done this, the British would have been outraged and they would seek international sanctions against that country. This is double-standard and political persecution of the highest order. They have sought to politically persecute us because we desire to live in an independent Turks and Caicos Islands, where the rule of law applies to everyone; where the rules and laws can't be changed to get rid of a person or government because you disagree with their political views and goals.
Finally, we can never get a fair trial considering the changes that were made and the interference with the justice system by the Governor, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Special Prosecutor Helen Garlick.
You have the situation where the Governor appoints the prosecutor, she will choose the judge and the Governor appoints who she chooses. The Governor at a public meeting has already announced that we are guilty, therefore the whole notion of a trial is a show. We know, and all Turks and Caicos Islanders know, that the verdict has already been decided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Governor the prosecutor and the Judges that they have chosen.
All of the laws and rules that have been changed, were done on the recommendation of the Special Prosecutor to ensure a conviction. This is a complete set-up for a modern-day John Crow political lynching. I will not be part of that. I have therefore sought protection from another country in accordance with the United Nations Convention on Human Rights and the human rights laws of that country, as it is my right to do and the right of any person that is being politically persecuted.
Let be clear. I am not a fugitive, and will never be a fugitive. I have applied for political asylum from another country and I am merely seeking protection from political persecution.
I will continue to bring challenges to clear my name and that of my government and colleagues. I dream to return to my homeland as an independent, victorious, proud and free nation.
My Brothers and Sisters my prayers continue to be that May God of Jacob, Isaac and Johna protect us and deliver us out of the hands of the Philistines and restore our pride, human rights and democracy so we can resume building a prosperous nation with both political parties continuing to make their contributions as we chart our own course and fulfill our God-given destiny.
Michael Misick
Former Premier of
Turks and Caicos Islands.
March 19, 2012
UNCLASSIFIED: Michael Misick International Arrest Warrant
Earlier this afternoon RTC news received the following from SIPT:
“An arrest warrant has been obtained and ‘Red Notice‘ authorised by Interpol for the arrest of Michael Eugene Misick, former Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
“For the past several months the SIPT has sought to secure the attendance of Mr Misick at its offices in Providenciales in respect of allegations of corruption and money laundering during his time in office. Every opportunity has been given to Mr Misick to voluntarily surrender to the SIPT’s jurisdiction for interview. Despite previous indications from Mr Misick’s solicitors that he would attend for interview, he has failed to do so.”
CEO Continues Dialogue with Firefighters
In keeping with his stated commitment, Chief Executive Patrick Boyle met staff at the Provo and Grand Turk airport fire stations last Wednesday 14th and Friday 16th March 2012.
The CEO toured both facilities and held extensive discussions with fire fighters on ways to improve the current work environment and ensure the best possible delivery of this essential service. The visits were a follow up to discussions between Mr. Boyle and the fire fighters during their recent industrial action. The firefighters have decided to elect a small group of representatives to continue the dialogue with the CEO and incoming Permanent Secretary responsible for the fire services, Ms Susan Malcolm.
I have found my engagements with the two groups of fire fighters very useful in establishing where we need to go in ensuring we have a fit for purpose fire service in the TCI, said CEO Patrick Boyle.
I look forward to continuing the dialogue with the representative group of fire fighters and to working along with the PS and her Ministry to put the best possible solutions in place.
50th Anniversary of Splash Down – Mural Unveiling Ceremony
In celebration of the John Glenn Splash down, this week marks a special celebration in the TCI to mark that occasion.
HE Governor Todd stated the following in his address to mark the occasion:
50 years ago the eyes of the world were on Grand Turk. I am delighted to be here today at the first event of this busy anniversary week to commemorate the splashdown of Colonel John Glenn and Friendship 7 from the Mercury space programme. The new murals will be a permanent reminder of the historic bond between NASA and TCI.
I should like to extend a special welcome to our visitors from overseas, in particular to our guest speakers, Janet E. Petro, Deputy Director of the John F. Kennedy Space Center and former Mercury Program radar technician, Alan Rakofsky, whom I understand worked here on Grand Turk during the Mercury Program.
In recognition of the strategic importance of the Turks and Caicos Islands at the time, the United States Government constructed a Guided Missile Tracking Station here at the south end of Grand Turk in 1953 - just a short distance from where we are today.
Fortunately although the capabilities of the base were never tested in anger, the facility was instrumental in the safe management of a second historic land fall on Grand Turk (or rather “splashdown” on this occasion) when, on 20th February 1962, Colonel John Glenn was picked up by an aircraft carrier near the island after completing three orbits in space in the capsule Friendship 7.
We now know that John Glenn landed safely and others followed him, to the moon. But let us remember, no-one knew that at the time. He was a pioneer. A risk taker. A hero. We recall another inspired and risk taker pioneer who came to these waters 500 years ago, Christopher Columbus. What these men have in common with each other and many others is that the pioneer faces real challenges. To succeed inspiration is needed. So is perspiration. I am sure both Senior Glenn and Mr Rakofsky would agree. As all my second favorite Spanish proverb says “There are no roads, stranger, roads are made by previous travelers”
The arrival on Grand Turk of Colonel Glenn meant Grand Turk had the distinction of being the first dry land he set foot on after being launched from Cape Kennedy. One of the significant highlights of the events of 1962 was the visit of the then Vice President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson, on 23 February, three days after the land fall, to escort Colonel Glenn home. History records that, despite the early hour of the arrival of the Vice President (4am), a large number of people on Grand Turk thronged to the airport to greet Mr Johnson and Colonel Glenn.
The Splashdown of John Glenn was soon followed by the arrival of Commander Scott Carpenter on 24 May 1962 at the end of his space flight in the Aurora craft. Commander Carpenter, despite being a few hundred miles off course, was met by members of the government and Colonel Glenn who had returned here to welcome Aurora safely back to earth.
Over many years, with the existence of the United States Tracking Station the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands developed a strong relationship with the United States.
Although the Base went on to close officially in 1983, this relationship between the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the United States remained important to the people of these Islands, not least today because of the large number of tourists visiting us by way of the Grand Turk Cruise Centre.
Almost the first thing visitors to Grand Turk coming by air see, as they leave the airport, is a replica of Friendship 7. Indeed we will be gathering next to that site tomorrow to name a road after John Glenn. Almost the first thing those arriving by ship at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre will now see is the interactive exhibition commemorating the same event and the new murals we are unveiling today. This serves to underline the place of Grand Turk in a very special moment of history.
I would like to remind you that this year 2012 we also celebrate HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. HM The Queen came to TCI, and Grand Turk, when she visited in 1966. The Royal Couple visited the American missile tracking base and heard about Grand Turk’s role. And the Turks and Caicos Police Force gained the title Royal in recognition of their work during the visit.
In closing, I should like to pay tribute to our distinguished visitors, to Carnival Corporation, the Grand Turk Cruise Centre and government colleagues for their work in organising this week’s events. This exhibit and the work of the NASA educators, who are visiting local schools during this week, will go a long way in educating our residents and many visitors on the significant and important role played by these Islands early in the space age.
Chair of the Consultartive Forum Ms Lilliam Missick issues statement
RTC News received the following statement, issued on behalf of the Chair of the Consultative Forum Ms Lillian Missick.
Like all TCIslanders I was shocked and dismayed when I heard the Governor use a profane word during a radio call-in show last week. For this was ill-advised even if, as he claims, he was merely repeating what he thought he heard a caller say.
It is important to appreciate however that the Governor not only apologized immediately but later issued a formal apology to the nation for the obvious offense he caused. He should be commended for this; not least because it stands in instructive contrast to the failure of some local leaders to apologise for causing us far greater offense.
Even in this case, it troubles me that while Mr. Robert Hall, the host of radio show at issue, demanded an apology from the Governor for his momentary lapse in judgment, he did not apologize to the Governor (and to the nation) for sitting by and allowing his callers to show such sustained and appalling lack of respect towards His Excellency.
For it is short-sighted and misguided to think that aiding and abetting our people in showing disrespect for this Governor will not misled them into showing disrespect as a matter of course for all public servants (expatriate and local alike). I fear we will still be suffering the consequences of such contempt for government officials long after this Governor is gone.
Finally, I have been asked by many to comment on the statement former Premier Michael Misick issued on this incident and on the Governor's response to it. But given that he has yet to offer a single word of contrition for treating our national treasury like his personal piggy bank and is now a fugitive from justice, I do not believe Mr. Misick is in any position to offer anything constructive to our national debate on current affairs.
Therefore, I shall not dignify his statement with any comment. I regret that the Governor did not see fit to do the same.
Lillian Misick
Chair Consultative Forum
MILLS INSTITUTE STUDENTS AMAZED BY THE SKIES
Kindergarten students of the reputable Mills Institute of Lifelong Learning and Success visited Providenciales International Airport as the highlight to the students week of learning about air transportation.
Sixteen students ranging between the ages of four and five made their way through the terminal facility to learn about domestic and international flights.
The tour, guided by Terminal Manager, Ms. Lavern Skippings and Curbside Supervisor, Mr. Terrance Smith began with the curbside passenger drop off area and continued throughout the building. The students were very inquisitive in asking questions and keen on answering questions about their experience on airplanes. They were greeted by the Airport Police Officer, Airline Representatives, Security Officers, Customs Officers and even Immigration officials.
As airplanes began their morning operations, students were allowed to watch a local flight depart the runway and take off to the skies. When asked "what was the best part of your tour?" a bright eyed bouncing male student replied "I liked seeing the planes".
As a part of Education Week teachers were encouraged to take learning outside of the classroom and the TCIAA was happy to lend a helping hand by welcoming students to see air transport through our eyes.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Releases Tell All Book ‘Redefining Diva’
Sheryl Lee Ralph has been around for a minute or two and has seen quite a few things in the industry.
The original Dream Girl and mother of “Moesha” has come out about the dark spots in her career, including beefs with Diana Ross and Brandy.
In her new book, a candid memoir, “Redefining Diva: Life Lessons From the Original Dreamgirl,” she reveals that Ross wasn’t very thrilled about her “Dreamgirls” character, which was loosely based on the diva. Working with Brandy wasn’t all that pleasant either.
“I hope that folks understand that no matter what, I have great admiration for Diana Ross and Brandy. But you know how you have a family of people and sometimes you get on each other’s nerves? That does not mean I love you any less. It’s just that we had a run-in right there and it was very real. It will either bring us closer together or it will move us further apart,” she told BET.com.
Further, she lamented that some of the things that happened on the show were really a reflection of her life in the industry, explaining that more often than not, her opinions didn’t seem to matter.
“It started with a lot of things I didn’t agree with. But I’ve had to deal with a different phenomenon my whole life and that’s been people saying to me, ‘Just shut up.’ Stars don’t have a point a view. Shut up, you’re beautiful, can’t you just be satisfied with that? Shut up, why do you always have to have an opinion about things? It’s a constant I’ve learned the hard way. Sometimes doing the right thing or standing up for yourself doesn’t really matter.”
Cee Lo Sings ‘F–k You’ in Prez’ Presence; Fox News Freaks Out
Friday night at Tyler Perry’s fundraiser for President Obama, Cee Lo Green decided he wanted to do “F–k You,” the uncensored version of his hit “Forget You.”
Actually he sang the censored version first then he asked the audience “Can I curse in here?” But he didn’t wait for the answer, belting out “f*** you!” Cee Lo ultimately switched to the censored “Forget You” lyrics.
White House Press Secretary Jay Carney refused to comment on the song when pressed by reporters aboard Air Force One. Carney did admit that the president is “a fan” of Cee Lo’s music and might have his songs on his iPod.
At an earlier fundraiser, the president was interrupted by a “Ludacris” song when someone’s phone started ringing.
“Woah. Got some ‘Luda’ on there?” the president asked of the person’s ring tone, eliciting some hearty laughter from the crowd. “I hope it’s the clean version.”
Meanwhile it was apparently a slow news day for the folks at Fox News’ Sean Hannity show ’cause they couldn’t help themselves and used the situation to create fodder for another non-story while feigning outrage.
Rosie O'Donnell show axed by Oprah Winfrey
Rosie O'Donnell's daily US talk show has been axed from Oprah Winfrey's TV channel after five months for failing to attract high ratings.
The Rosie Show's debut in October, featuring Russell Brand, drew 500,000 viewers. It averaged 204,000 last month, according to Variety magazine.
Winfrey, who set up her Oprah Winfrey Network in January 2011, hailed "an incredible partner".
O'Donnell's previous chat show, which ran from 1996-2002, won multiple Emmys.
Winfrey said she had learned that "a new network launch is always a challenge and ratings grow over time as you continue to gather an audience".
O'Donnell said she had been welcomed "with open arms".
"I wish the show was able to attract more viewers but it did not so I am headed back to my home in New York with gratitude - on we go."
The production, filmed at Chicago's Harpo Studios - home to The Oprah Winfrey Show for 25 years - was at first taped in front of an audience before becoming a more intimate one-to-one interview show.
The final edition will be aired on 30 March.
BBC
Caribbean minister urges regulations to prevent no-shows
A St Vincent government official is calling for more stringent regulations regarding contractual arrangements between overseas artistes and promoters.
According to a Caribbean Media Corporation news report, Opposition Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce, St Clair Leacock made the comments yesterday following a no-show by Jah Cure. The Jamaican reggae artiste was scheduled for a concert at Victoria Park, Kingstown, the country's capital on Saturday. The artiste was the headliner for Irresistable Temptations.
Jah Cure, whose real name is Siccature Alcock, however, tweeted the day after that his contractual obligations were unmet by the show's promoter.
The report stated that patrons, who had paid EC$50 ($1,500 approximately), became irate and began throwing bottles when they learnt the Unconditional Love singer was not performing. Police had to fire shots to restore order at the event.
The promoter, in his defence, said that while he had paid the singer a US$15,000 deposit, he was, however, unable to make the final payment because 2,000 bogus tickets had been collected at the gate.
"There is a need for tighter regulations in this thing," said Leacock, shadow minister, who was also at the event.
"Promoters cannot be allowed to put on a show and speculate that if they sell enough tickets or they collect enough money, they will pay the artiste and people will get their show," he continued.
In responding to the minister's comments, Claude Mills, Jah Cure's publicist, said the artiste's management team would welcome any legislation preventing a recurrence of last Saturday's events.
"We [the team] hope this suggestion is indeed genuine and not just political posturing because this is a serious issue which a lot of Jamaican dancehall and reggae artistes face," Mills told the Observer.
"We are unsure about how such legislation would be enacted and enforced. In the meantime, Jah Cure's team is putting new systems in place, as it relates to future contracts and the payment of performance fees, to prevent this from happening to the artiste again," Mills said.
Last month, the St Lucia government warned promoters it would be putting measures in place to ensure that visiting artistes conform to the laws.
The announcement was made following the third consecutive no-show by Mavado as well as Gyptian.