Oct 16 - GSD “Condemns Threats” To Leader of Opposition
The GSD party condemns what it calls “extremist elements within the GSLP party machinery” who, they claim, mimic the very behaviour the Spanish Government stands accused of by “denigrating, threatening and insulting” the Leader of the Opposition for having dared express criticism of the Chief Minister’s recent statements before the UN in New York.
The GSD say that nothing sums this up better than comments from a GSLP activist on Facebook who, in a clear reference to Danny Feetham and the stabbing incident of three years ago, “found it easy to see why people get attacked” even if he does “not condone or agree with physical violence”.
The GSD says it is proud of the “maturity of our democracy, a basic constitutional right of which is the ability to express political opinions free of harassment.”
The GSD calls on Mr. Fabian Picardo to make a public statement on this issue and informing the public on the steps he is taking to ensure his party militants respect the diversity of opinion in Gibraltar.
Commenting on this point, a GSD spokesman said: “The GSD is astonished how a party with a manifesto commitment “to a more inclusive, less divisive and positive style of Government” and to “promote free speech amongst all citizens” and “ensure that no-one in Gibraltar is afraid to speak their mind” can accuse the Spanish Government of harassment against the person of Mr. Picardo when GSLP militants are acting out the same unacceptable behaviour in respect of Mr. Feetham. This is an issue which goes to the heart of our democracy and it is shameful to see the orchestrated campaign against the Leader of the Opposition including comments about personal violence.”
