Fred Mitchell, Chairman of the PLP, continues to publicly criticize attorney Obie Ferguson. His continued commentary exposes a deeper concern—the PLP’s troubling tendency to attach strings to every act of generosity, and worse, to expect unquestioning loyalty in return.

In his most recent remarks, Mitchell basically told Ferguson: “We gave you the prestigious title of King’s Counsel—so be grateful and stay silent.” This statement was not only for Ferguson. It reflected a wider, troubling feeling:

“We have given the people so much. They should take what we offer, be grateful, and keep quiet.”

Is that truly how the PLP views the average citizen? Are titles, contracts, and political appointments simply tools of control—offered not on merit, but on obedience?

Let us be clear: Obie Ferguson’s recent comments about the PLP sparked controversy, yes—but criticism of government is the cornerstone of democracy, not a betrayal of loyalty. Mitchell’s response, however, implies that Ferguson’s KC designation was not purely based on merit. According to Mitchell:

“He denies that [the KC title] was the result of the memorandum of understanding. He knows that is not true. When we met with him and his colleagues, before we discussed any public policy, they asked about giving him a KC. They agreed.

The King’s Counsel title, intended to recognize legal excellence, was in fact a political agreement. This revelation raises significant questions about the PLP’s process for awarding public honours.

Mitchell adds:

“We are not arguing competence here. What we are saying is, when you are speaking truth to power, Mr. Ferguson, you ought to say thank you to the PLP.”

That is not democratic governance. That is conditional allegiance.

This saga reinforces a growing perception: when the PLP gives you something, it is not free—it comes with expectations, with silence, with loyalty. And if you speak out, even truthfully, even respectfully, you risk being chastised and publicly humiliated.

The issue is not Obie Ferguson’s qualifications or his criticisms—it is the PLP’s reaction. It is the party’s willingness to politicize honours, retaliate against dissent, and remind the public that favours come at a price.

No government should expect gratitude as a substitute for accountability. No title should come with a muzzle. No citizen should be silenced for exercising their right to speak.

END