Even though the Public Service Association’s executive has thrown its support behind rape accused president, Watson Duke, the PSA’s Constitution Protectors is calling for his resignation.
Founding member, Oral Saunders, in an interview yesterday questioned why feminist groups were remaining silent on Duke’s refusal to withdraw himself from the helm of the PSA.
Saying the situation was not about the PSA, Saunders said: “This is about our entire society.
“We expected Duke to refuse adamantly to resign but the issue is whether we, as a society, should accept that standard of leadership.
“Are we saying that when it comes to the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader they must uphold high standards and the rest of the society should not?”
“We have not heard from the female groups. What is the Rape Crisis Society saying? What about the Women’s Arm of the UNC and the PNM?” he asked.
He said a few months ago, Port-of-Spain mayor Raymond Tim Kee had to resign because he made an erroneous statement. “How can we accept Duke with open arms because he is refusing to resign?” Saunders added.
He called on Reema Carmona, the President’s wife; Sharon Rowley, the Prime Minister’s wife, and former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam to speak out.
He added: “Where are the other trade union leaders like Ancel Roget, Vincent Cabrera and officials of Natuc, Fitun and the Joint Trade Union Movement?
“All right-thinking citizens must stand up and let their voices be counted. We are trying to do the right thing and force leaders to make the right statement. These leaders are paving the way for future leaders.
“Society must not allow this situation to continue. If Duke doesn’t want to go we must stand up and show him the door,” Saunders said.
Duke has been charged with one count of rape and four counts of serious indecency.
A 33-year-old Cunupia woman reported to police last Tuesday that following a meeting with Duke at the Hyatt Regency, he took her to a room and had sex with her against her will.
Duke was granted $250,000 bail and will return to court on June 9.