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Not Mia and me!
Former Prime Minister Owen Arthur tells Opposition Leader Mia Mottley not to worry about any challenge from him, but instead to consider how she is viewed by John Public.(Picture by Shaka Mayers.)
Published on: 10/28/2009.
by RICKY JORDAN
MIA MOTTLEY'S leadership challenge is not between her and Owen Arthur, or her Opposition colleagues - it has to do with what she symbolises in the minds of Barbadians.
That is the view of former Prime Minister Owen Arthur, who said yesterday his former Deputy Prime Minister and current Opposition Leader was not accepted by most Barbadians as a future leader.
"I cannot say there is not a challenge of leadership in the BLP, but the challenge is not about a struggle between Ms Mottley and myself.
"The challenge is, as represented in the Peter Wickham poll, that Ms Mottley . . . faces a problem of being accepted by the society at large and faces a problem of being accepted by a cross-section of the BLP," Arthur told the media at his UWI, Cave Hill office.
He said there was one facet of the issue which neither he nor Mottley could do anything about, and that was that after being leader of the BLP and country for 14 years, a large measure of support for him remained in sections of the society and the party.
"And she has to live with that . . . . I can't do anything about that, but there's a part of it that she has to deal with, and it has to do with what she symbolises in the minds of the people of Barbados and how she comes to get the people of Barbados to accept her as their leader," he stated.
Arthur said he was still finding it "most exasperating" that over and over again Barbadians from all walks of life were telling him that they wanted him back.
He also said it was not something he was promoting or encouraging, but it existed and therefore represented a challenge to the party.
This challenge, Arthur added, could not be confronted by issuing public ultimatums for party members to swear oaths of allegiance.
"The BLP has a challenge and we have a situation where there's not a contest for leadership within the party, but there is a problem in the wider Barbados society, where there is unacceptance and unacceptability of the present leader of the party," he said.
"I would like to see Ms Mottley succeed in politics . . . . I made Ms Mottley my Deputy Prime Minister . . . . I also stepped down voluntarily as leader of the party," Arthur said, reiterating that last Monday's confirmation vote could not settle a leadership issue which was rooted in the wider society.
"The challenge facing Ms Mottley and the party is not within the parliamentary group. The challenge is to have a leader who enjoys wide aceptance and acceptability in the wider society and wide acceptance in the parliamentary party.
"That cannot be resolved by a vote among the parliamentary group," he said.
Arthur advised that his former protégée now needed to "recognise that there are things that you may like to do that could affect the standing of your party"; prepare herself for the fact that everybody was not going to like her; and immerse herself and "work harder than anybody else".
"Ms Mottley does not have to be me," he added, "but she has to make herself likeable, she has to be respected because people want to believe that their leaders are full of integrity . . . and she has to consider the use of power; not be feared negatively, but be understood as a person who can use power effectively."
He further noted that, having had the opportunity to lead Barbados for three terms, he was not about to do anything to destroy any legacy of leadership which he had established.
"I have no interest whatsoever in being involved in dividing the BLP. I would have no interest whatsoever in wanting to re-emerge as leader in a divided party.
"My only interest is wanting to serve if I still think I have something to contribute to the people of Barbados," Arthur added.
45 comment found!
DLP, BLP and our people : 11/3/2009
It is ALLEGED that Ms Mottley is gay, and I know that Barbadians would not allow this to disqualify her from leadership in the BLP. After all, we had Mr Tom Adams and his philandering ways, and this was not an impediment to his suitability for leadership in the BLP. We as Bajans seem to often look the other way when our leaders lack morals and character. The things is, the turning of a blind eye to these situations has resulted is us producing a new generation of victims (our women and men) who fear the ridicule and embarrassment from society more than they fear the ALLEGED abusive relationships. Ms Mottley needs to step aside so we can again have leaders of good moral character. This is what Mr Thompson represents, not what is represented by either Mr Arthur or Ms Motley. Where are the new BLP leaders? It was admirable to see the quick decision regarding Senator Simmonds, however, making these same decisions regarding oneself is always impossible. So, they need to be made for you. These changes need to be made by the voters, or in this case the senior leadership of the BLP. What follows from not addressing these issues early is other forms of abuse. You will inevitably get the abuse of power in business, in government and of your people. Is this the type of future we can expect? Bajans, put aside your political differences and use that high quality education, ability to reason, and respectability you are known for around the world, for your benefit. IT IS TIME.
Owen and Mia : 11/2/2009
I don´t give a damn about Ms.Mottley´s private life.But i don`t want neither her or Arthur to rule Barbados again,these people has shown that they have very little regard for the poor people of Barbados.They have sold out Barbados to foriegn investors.Let them fight amoung themselves,they are the same type of people.
Charisma : 11/2/2009
Mr. Owen Arthur is a man of charisma and charm who can light up a room with his presence. Former U.S President Bill Clinton has the same charm and charisma. It's what people love in a leader. They convey confidence and are very likable. You may not vote for them but you like them nonetheless. That's what the people in Barbados seem to identify in Mr. Arthur. That alone can propel him back to the leadership ranks. The DLP once had their own internal struggles and resolved them. Hopefully, the BLP can do the same.
BYE,BYE OWEN : 10/30/2009
IS MIA THAT BAD,OR IS IT THE BAJAN GENDER DISCRIMINATION?
Good Intention... At times Aggression Wprks Passively : 10/29/2009
Well said! Ms Motley aggression is coming across abit on the negative side..However her good intentions honesty and respect and true to the leadership of the BLP and her constituents and the people of Barbados.. Some one said to me years ago Stop being the Hammer and the Nail... Sometimes IT IS NOT GOOD TO KEEP PUSHING.. RELAX AND LET IT COME TO YOU MIA
Tired ah Politicians : 10/29/2009
Well Mr. Arthur Stop playing politics with Bajans. Why have you not come out and say i fully support MIA is it that you are planning on coming back to lead the party?? Stop playing politics!!! Bajans wise up to the crap!!! Ask yourself looking at MIA's track record with her ministries has she not proven that she can handle business and the country!? I say she cant do any worse that the current and former PM
A BLP Fiasco : 10/29/2009
What a mess!! With all that have occurred with these 2 "leaders", Ms. Mottley and Mr. Arthur, in this power struggle, it would seem to me that neither one of them possess the one important attibute required to lead a people - INTEGRITY. A Prime Minister should portray the epitome of LEADERSHIP and STATESMANSHIP. How does one emulate such persons with such behaviour, male or female. I suggest that the BLP look within their ranks for another. Back to the drawing board you go! Hurry!!!
Hypocrites : 10/29/2009
And sad to say, that's what poor Mia would have to be to be acceptable in the eyes of you disgusting HYPOCRITICAL Bajans - married with three children. Adulterers, fornicators, liars and thieves have led you before... so I am not sure what lifestyle most of you are referring to... The only difference between Mia and the rest is that she is a woman...
The image : 10/29/2009
In reading the comment submissions, there is no doubt the everyone acknowledges that the leader of the opposition has some outstanding issues that have public relations implications. That is sure. The question in my mind is to what extent those issues could preclude her from being elected. In one of the submissions someone made reference to public opinion being more weighted than ability, if this is actually the case it would be prudent to hire a public relations/image specialist to work on the problem with the opposition leader. The whole public display could serve to bring everything out in the open. The next step should be to take the necessary steps to correct the situation, however not paying attention to it and making reference to Mr. Arthur will not do anything to enhance Mia’s image. Let us stay focus people and remember that we need a strong opposition so that no party will be able to run ruff-shot over Bajans again.
Judge Not : 10/28/2009
It saddens me terribly to see the type of men and politicians we have allowed to represent us in this country Barbados. They sit there in their high chairs of office in this country preaching so morally but yet they fail miserably to adhere to what they are preaching. As leaders they would never have tolerate a member of their respective labour party to to publicly berate and belittle their political judgment when they are/were leader of the same labour party But yet, when they are no longer leader they feel that they respectively have the right and license to speak with inuendo. We watch them sit there and appear to be holier than thou pure as ever. They set the rules for the conduct and behaviour of the modern day labour parites in Barbados, but when it comes time to play by them each of the respective party leaders fail to adhere to them and try to change them as and when it suits their needs. The leaders of this country and political figures, (past, present and future), need to learn to come to grips with the fact that women in this society are to be respected by all at all times!!! You leaders set the tone, the rules and choose the playing field and remember "Judge not lest ye be judged"...thank you
NOT MIA AND ME! : 10/28/2009
Queen B, some people are doing something about their sins with the help of the Lord. Is your "girl" doing anything about hers, or is it a case of "business as usual?" Kindly enlighten me, please. Several Bajans dislike Ms.Mottley for reasons other than the one that is commonly bandied about. I've heard Bajans say they don't want a woman running this country, irrespective of how intelligent she is. Some say that she's too arrogant and domineering. Others say she looks down on lower income people. I've even heard some assert that she lacks a vision for our country. I have no way of knowing the veracity of these things. But I know that perception is often more important to the voter than reality. And right now, the public perception of Ms. Mottley is sure not bringing joy to her heart. So if she's interested in staying the course, she's got to do something about it-like yesterday.
: 10/28/2009
You got to give credit to Owen Seymour Arthur; the man knows how to pull you down whilst so seemingly appearing to lift you up. If you listen carefully to Owen's words you will see that there is a subliminal message in side his disclosure. The message is: Mia is not ready because the people are not ready for a leader with questionable behaviour and certain man-nerisms. He knows fully well that no amount of articulation and rhetoric; or having an incredible memory to verbalise, without script, matters of policy and issues in this country, will not suffice to appease a Barbadian public who condemns certain behaviours and displays as not being part of the figure of prominence in this country. Mia needs to show different sides to her personality and she must first start her quest as a leader who is in touch with the people, that she is for the people and seek to uplift the lives of the people.
Arthur's Take : 10/28/2009
She is a creature of you, Mr.Arthur! Bajan in NJ
Venus & Serena ain't got nuffin on you! : 10/28/2009
What a backhand! Who knew? Kaisomen can't complain for lack of material come Cropover 2010 atall! Sir, the way to show there is no issue with Mia is to have her by your side when you call the press conference! Imagine that for a photo-op. I seem to recall an idea being touted back in the day about a co-leader, maybe it is the ideal time to put the idea in motion.
A winning team : 10/28/2009
Owen vs Mia. I love it. You had your turn Owen, you remind me of Dick Chenney, You run things how you wanted it & now somebody trying , you knocking them down. .but thats ok though, that's your own.. I'm not a BLP. I love the DLP. And the people of Barbados don't want Mia to be they new leader. No way . Owen, go & side down in your rocking chair & "blame it on the goose" you had your turn. Another leadership fr, you will send that place under mama rock.
Mia Leadership : 10/28/2009
WOW Mr Owen you had your turn,how sad that you think Ms Motley would not be accepted by most,funny thing you made her DP during what if something had gone wrong with you during your time As P/M would the same Mia not have been the one to take your place.I say to my fellow Bajans don't let this man insult our intelligence this woman's sexuality has nothing to do with her ability to move this party forward we need to grow as a people and stop passing Judgment it's time we have another Female Prime Minister in the caribbean ,Live ,laugh,Love.
He who is without sin... : 10/28/2009
I am "B" to the bone, have no intentions of crossing over. I agree with Mr.Arthur's assessment of the situation - the public's perception of Ms. Mottley may not be favourable. There is redemption for the worst sinner, there was a time when rumours abound about another leader's activities in the dub and other places. My response to the Barbadian public at large is "he who is without sin cast the first stone.
This discussion is sick : 10/28/2009
To: I WILL NEVER SUPPORT THE BLP AGAIN, kk and the rest of closed minded people: Ms. Mottley does NOT have to prove anything to anyone regarding her personal life and one person cant get an entire country to do evil. You all have minds of your own. I have long had questions about another prominent politician because I think he is being a hypocrite by putting up a front. But no one addresses that concern and I know Im not the only one who thinks of it. Most of you are sexist first of all and you know what you are in the second instance. Ms. Mottley is WAY more intelligent than your current PM. However it seems that other things outweigh someone's mental capacity to keep your contry in shape economically. Bajan in NY P.S. : I know I will get licks for being in NY and being corrupt. I assure you all I am not. I just think this is incredibly judgemental.
So What Now? : 10/28/2009
Who do we want to lead? Hmmm!! So, is Mr. Arthur saying that he DOES NOT WANT TO BE THE LEADER? In fact, he said, "I would have no interest whatsoever in wanting to re-emerge as leader in a divided party". Sounds pretty divided to me right now. Ok then, so that means that he is endorsing his "protegee" to lead because he taught her all she knows but she failed on a few things - "to recognise that there are things that she may like to do that could affect the standing of the party"; to prepare herself for the fact that everybody was not going to like her; and to immerse herself and "work harder than anybody else". And he went on to say that Ms. Mottley does not have to be him (Owen). Sounds pretty insulting to me. How arrogant is that?? He added, "but she has to make herself likeable; she has to be respected because people want to believe that their leaders are full of integrity". Oh oh! What is he really saying? And that "she has to consider the use of power; not be feared negatively, but be understood as a person who can use power effectively." Is he still mentoring his protegee? Is this do as I say and not as I do?? Sounds pretty arrogant and condescending. Well, I give up! So, what now? Can he hurry up and continue the training or pick another hopeful quick, please.
Owen Arthur, Again? : 10/28/2009
Mr. Authur: You have done a lot for Barbados, including selling it out to non-nationals. It sounds as though you want to come back but Mia is in your way. Why not say outright to the Barbadian community that you plan not to run ever again, ever. Honestly, 14 years is enough. I wonder what would Arthur do differently this time if he were to run. Barbados will no longer belong to the Barbadians, but some other country...perhaps America, Guyana.
Not Mia and me! : 10/28/2009
This is tough love, telling it like it is. a majority of the populace share this view. I do. I stand with Mr Owen Arthur to speak his mind. What i disagree with, is the unprofessional way he choose to do it.
Judge Not : 10/28/2009
It saddens me terribly to see the type of men and politicians we have allowed to represent us in this country Barbados. They sit there in their high chairs of office in this country preaching so morally but yet they fail miserably to adhere to what they are preaching. As leaders they would never have tolerate a member of their respective labour party to to publicly berate and belittle their political judgment when they are/were leader of the same labour party But yet, when they are no longer leader they feel that they respectively have the right and license to speak with innuendo and double speak stopping short of character assassination. They who were once married, divorced and re-married only to introduce to us as a nation their new family including children who were probably conceived when they were perhaps still married to the first wife. We watch them sit there and appear to be holier than thou pure as ever. They set the rules for the conduct and behaviour of the modern day labour parites in Barbados, but when it comes time to play by them each of the respective party leaders fail to adhere to them and try to change them as and when it suits their needs. The leaders of this country and political figures, (past, present and future), need to learn to come to grips with the fact that women in this society are to be respected by all at all times!!! You leaders set the tone, the rules and choose the playing field and remember "Judge not lest ye be judged"...thank you
Under the bus.. : 10/28/2009
Yup, Mr.Arthur threw Ms.Motley under the bus, plain and simple. He sent messages to people who understand what he was saying. What i have seen today is veil refference to Ms.Motley not being electable because of what??? No one is saying what the problem is....but everyone knows what the problem is. Why should her private life be what determines if she is capable of running the country. Mr.Arthur needs to go sit down.
WHATS THE FUSS. : 10/28/2009
I am not a supporter of the BLP,i have always been,and remain a moral supporter of Barrow's party as i currently resides overseas. I am very greatful for the contribution made by Mr Arthur and the BLP during their years governing Barbados,in the overall developement of Barbados,i sincerely believe that Ms Mottley played a significant role representing Barbados in the ministerial offices she held. I believe irrespective of politics ,it would be a good thing for our standing in the world if one day she became PM of Barbados,she has demonstrated leadership on many occasion during Mr Arthurs absence,and there's no reason for her not being given the opportunity. I believe all this talk is about so call life style choices,bajans are no longer restricted to 166 sq miles,they are more in touch with the wider world, more so than before, we can accept others who we preceive to be different,when i came to America i sounded,and still do ,different to all the others on my job,my boss ,and others didnot care how i sounded,as long as i did the job as well as they did. Lets all stop this nonsence and respect Ms Mottley,she has been handed the responsibilities of leading a major political party and deserves it,she is bajan, like you and i. I am a nationalistic bajan,and i love all my leaders,we expect them to be respected in the world,then we must also do so at home. Thank you Mr Arthur,you gave her the opportunity,now your only choice is to accept her and do it publicly,for the sake of your party, the party has spoken and you have heard.
Un ugly and angry display : 10/28/2009
An ugly and angry display. Notice that Parliament was meeting yesterday - was given on October 20th 2009, yet Arthur was absent, again. ......................................Arthur is not challenging Mia! Really? Arthur feels the he is the only one to run Barbados and given what the IMF is now saying, he thinks he will have to rescue Barbados. ...................................Owen gave Mia numerous Minitries and difficult assignments thinking she would have fail but in every one she performed well. That is leadership.
Back at You : 10/28/2009
Mr.Arthur, you made Ms Mottley the star from the beginning of her political career. You found her a 'soft' seat, gave her the biggest ministry, made her AG, made her deputy, stepped down so that she could become leader. If she aint right now you should take the responsibility. You made her. As far as her lifestyle and personality are concerned she has not changed. She was always so and you knew it!
TO BIG CARL : 10/28/2009
If you tastefully phrase the big open secret in Bim, the Digital Editor may very well post it. Just make sure what you write is not actionable in a court of law. I think that's mostly what they're concerned about. Remember the old proverb, "there's more than one way to skin a cat."
: 10/28/2009
I could never vote for Lady Mia and would never want her to become leader of our nation. She's very intelligent, but that alone does not convey leadership skills. Like the rest of us, she has shortcomings, but the difference is that she aspires to lead Bim and we don't. And I'm not a 'D' or a 'B'. It's obvious that former PM Arthur is keeping his options open. Otherwise, he would've made it unmistakenly clear to any dissidents within his party that they should cease at once clamoring for his return. Furthermore, that Ms.Mottley is the elected leader of the BLP and that the party faithful should rally around her. Instead, he makes this wimpy comment about "I can't do anything about it" (his supposed popularity within the party). The former PM is being coy, plain and simple. Methinks the "Bs" are heading for an even greater hammering at the polls next time around, unless they can get their proverbial house in order pronto. The roof is leaking!!!!!
I WILL NEVER SUPPORT THE BLP AGAIN : 10/28/2009
If Barbados creates such a place (what God is against...hint hint) the support of those aboard will be no more...trust me... Barbados has been placing high where the Human Index Factor is concerned. This will change for the punishment of God will take over. Mark this post...only some will understand
Snakes Alive in Bim : 10/28/2009
The former PM spoke out both sides of his mouth. He planted the seed for others to undermine Ms. Motley's leadership.
: 10/28/2009
The BLP is falling from grace. Most are now perceived as greedy. As for leadership? One has problems walking the straight line after socialising, the other wants to be a cricketer - bat, ball and intimidate. FIGURE IT OUT.
: 10/28/2009
Right on Owen. It is what she symbolizes publicly. Educated yes, modelleader and role model to be emulated, no, not good for our youth.
Going with Owen? : 10/28/2009
Going with Owen?
Going with Owen? : 10/28/2009
Going with Owen? NOT ME!!
That's Nothing To Do With You!!! : 10/28/2009
Mr. Arthur you done well. You made MIA what she is today. Ms. Mottley needs to get her act together if she intends to win an Election. You have done all you could, let the naysayers see if they can do what you have accomplished over the years. When I lived in Barbados, I always urged people to look at the character of the man. The leaders life would be saintly, but they should lead by example. I know Frank is as proud of you as we were.
: 10/28/2009
I have never voted in Bim.Was too young,however i used to attend lots of political meetings with my dad.I listened to both sides B&D and still do via the media.I think the best thing for the BLP right now would be to hear Mr.Arthur say goodbye.As long as he is still around there will always be bickering.Same thing here with Canadian politics.What i am hearing from people in Bim is that the goverment is WEAK and this comes from STRONG DLP PEOPLE .So KK don't jump too high Arthur will go and Mia will show the country SHE THE WOMAN.
Let's Get Real and not Personal!! : 10/28/2009
Mr. Arthur is correct in his assessment of the situation. Those of us who actually canvass for support for the party are often confronted with comments about our leader's alledged lifestyle. It is now festering like a sore and is obviously difficult to erase. The approach of seeking to get the parliamentary group to determine the leader of the party and to then say that the views of these nine/eight persons represent the views of the party on this very important issue is just wrong. There needs to be more open and honest dialogue on this issue and we the party members need to have a say in determining our ultimate leader. May the best man win.
Not Mia and me! : 10/28/2009
I'm glad Mia was chosen as leader of the opposition and wants to become Prime Minister of Barbados, because now bajans can send her a strong and clear message that we do not want and will never elect her as Prime Minister of our great nation...steups!!
mad : 10/28/2009
u are not in the spotlight and will not be in the spotlight no moreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
NOT MIA AND ME : 10/28/2009
HIPIP HORAY You have already divided the BLP the day you called Election and did not notify them. You know full well u want to come back as leader and thats a fact you used that woman to shame her. What goes around comes around you have a family always remember to Sow Good Seeds. In your heart you never intended to really stay away you just wanted a break because if you did you would tell you so faithful supporters to give Mia a change and even you can work along side her not behind her. ALWAYS CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR MOTIVES
Owen Insincerity Arthur? : 10/28/2009
A conundrum has emerged, and I am somewhat puzzled. On one hand Arthur says that he is not challenging Mottley's leadership of the BLP. Having seen that statement one then expects to see Arthur pledging support to Mottley and offering to assist her. Period. However what we see is the clearly disingenuous position of him casting aspersions about Mottley's acceptance by the people and whether or not she is likeable. He goes on to state that people are telling him that they want him back. What a mixed message and an insincere stance. As a party supporter I now recognize that we are about to face a very challenging period in our existence as a party. Sir Grantley, may he rest in peace, must be rolling in his grave. Arthur, please either lead, follow, or get out of the way. Right now, we have no idea what you are doing.
OWEN : 10/28/2009
lifestile MIA you have to convince the public you the WOMAN
not mia and me : 10/28/2009
we all know why mia would never be pm , i can't say it here ,i don't think the administrator would post it
MR. ARTHUR IS SO RIGHT : 10/28/2009
Mr. Arthur is so right.Ms. Mottley problem is, most Barbadians like her as a person, but they do not want her to be Prime Minister of Barbados for whatever reason. Ms. Mottley still has a good chance of becoming Prime Minister if she reengineer herself now. She is a very bright woman and I think she has a lot to offer Barbados in the future. I wish her well and hope she keep focus and work on reengineering herself. Mr. Arthur said a lot of very interesting thing in his interview with the press. I hope that he realise that he was perceived as a tyrant by a lot of Barbadians. When Mr. Arthur was Prime Minister a lot of Barbadians were afraid to voice they opinions on anything because they thought he was a very vendictive man. Many voices were silent. It was amazing how people started to voice their opinions on every issue from the time Mr. Thompson became Prime Minister. I hope that former Prime Minister Arthur will take sometime out now to reflect on his time as Prime Minister. He made several mistakes and did somethings that were clear a disservice to all Barbadians. WE all as human beings make mistakes, and it is always good when we can sit down and reflect on where we went wrong in our lives. Yes Mr. Arthur made mistakes and did some disservice to Barbadians, but he also made a great contribution to our NATION. We as Barbadians should never forget the great contribution that all our leaders has made since Independence.
problem : 10/28/2009
Owen is soooo right. But keeping her there is grrrreat for the DLP next election.
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