People’s National Movement’s Women’s League chairman Camille Robinson-Regis has defended the appointment of Makeda Antoine to the post of Ambassador to the United Nation’s permanent mission in Geneva.
Antoine was appointed to the post this week but this has been challenged in several quarters, with many arguing she seems unqualified for the post.
But in a release yesterday, Robinson-Regis said Antoine’s confirmation “came only after her background and credentials were examined and found worthy by the UN and the various European Governments.”
“The main duty of an ambassador is to represent the nation. This role requires diplomacy, integrity, honesty, humility and the ability to inspire. Ms Antoine has given every indication that she possesses these qualities and that she’s served with dignity in several managerial positions,” Robinson-Regis said.
“The Opposition is fully aware of the scrutiny and vetting that a candidate is subjected to from first-hand experience when one of their choices was rejected by a Caribbean neighbour. Also, competence and ability cannot be limited to an individual’s age.”
She pointed out that she served as Senator and Planning Minister at age 33 and in other positions from age 25. She noted that there were several other young people serving in various positions within the party.
“The League believes that these provide sterling examples of the advantages of youth in power,” she said.
Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Stuart Young also defended Antoine appointment during yesterday’s post-Cabinet press briefing.
Saying Government had taken a decision to appoint a very highly qualified young person, Young said, “It’s disheartening to see attempts to discredit her,”
On claims Antoine had no diplomatic service background, he listed many people who were appointed by the past People’s Partnership government to ambassadorial posts - including veterinarians, a teacher, lecturer, doctor and others - who also lacked diplomatic background.