Opinions are mixed over whether Caribbean MPs should hold dual nationality

What do you think?

Listen to the BBC Caribbean Report special on the issue

Reading a few opinions of others about the dual citizen that holds MP positions in the various islands, are there any members of Congress or Senate in the USDA holding dual citizenship? NO! Why? They pledge Allegiance to the USA only. Wake up people.
Watkins Barrymore
Maryland, USA

I was extremely gratified to listen to the programme on DUAL CITIZENSHIP.
I just cannot understand why developed countries like the US, UK, Canada, France and others, have no problems with the loyalty of our citizens while our people do.
The program raised some serious questions about the maturity of those residents in the islands and their willingness to make the changes necessary to attract the very best of their citizens.
The views aired on the program by the majority, is a reflection of the polarizing nature of politics that exists in the islands. Politics does not end at election; it continues throughout the term of the elected party.
Could this be a reason why we cannot move forward - because we don't embrace and appreciate those who went away to improve their lives and are willing to return and possibly run for public office? Are they protecting their individual political turf to avoid formidable competition?
Now, can we blame the colonizers for our condition or blame ourselves for failing to make use of our rich human resources? (Some of)the best minds that are doing wonders in the US, UK, Canada, France and others, are from our islands and elsewhere and they are not asked to renounce any other citizenship they may hold.
Matthew
St. Thomas, USVI

There ought to be specific criteria that distinctly stipulates in the constitution of the nations of the Caribbean that "no one who holds such should be enfranchised to hold ministerial position". With such clear declaration, the abuse would be avoided. Aspiring politicians, no matter how popular they are, would therefore know, beforehand, their limitations. Such provision, it should be made clear, would not apply to non-ministers. A minister of government, in my view, ought to be someone completely obligated to the country he/she is desirous of serving.
Chris Seraphine
Canefield, Dominica

Why should they give up their dual nationality? Perhaps they might want to return to the second country when they retire. I see no reason why the MPs should be forced to give up their freedom of movement. Those calling for them to do it would not want to do the same themselves.
Ardis
Birmingham, UK

The issue of dual citizenships for MP's in Belize hasn't been an issue here for the most part. The constitution does not allow MPs to have foreign allegiance except from other Commonwealth nations. The Belizeans have so far shown limited interest or concern for this topic in this election cycle. It is my opinion that MP's should renounce any foreign allegiance. If the populace/electorate must live and work here then our elected reps should dedicate themselves totally to the nation's development without a quick exit strategy.
Egbert Irving
Dangriga, Belize