Minister Hermangild Francis
Concerns about Home Affairs Minister Hermangild Francis interfering with work of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has been dismissed.
Francis said he is not aware of the rumours but said he has been performing his ministerial duties and nothing more.
There have been concerns that the minister, a former deputy police chief, is trying to allegedly micro-manage the Force and influence the promotion process.
But Francis said as minister he has only offered his advice to the police commissioner and the senior management team of the Force, based on his own views.
He said persons who deserve promotions are those who are working towards making the Force better.
During an interview with St. Lucia News Online (SNO) in late June, Francis had stated that members of the Force are taking advantage of the regulation in relation to promotions.
The regulation states that if an officer acquires a degree or any higher education certificate, he may be eligible for promotion. Several officers have been taking advantage of this.
“Some persons have catapulted above others and so quickly that it is causing disaffection in the Force,” Francis had told SNO, noting that some officers who served for many years and are competent are not given the opportunity to lead.
The minister had said there must be a balance in the system and as such, together with his ministry, the Force and other stakeholders, they will look to review the current regulation.
He also said he will try to engender accountability and transparency within the Force, and will discuss starting in the future a scholarship programme for police officers who cannot afford to study.
The new minister has also given a commitment to help professionalize the Force.
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