Pundits say Rowe’s acquittal could transform his image

Political analysts suggest Neil Rowe’s unanimous not guilty verdict may revitalise his career and even transform him into a “folk hero” among supporters who believe he was framed.

However, the St Michael North West MP has been advised to navigate lingering suspicions with a careful balance of vindication and humility.

Following a three-hour summation by Justice Pamela Beckles, a nine-member jury on Wednesday found Rowe not guilty of raping a woman at his Kingsland, Christ Church home on September 18, 2022.

Rowe’s lead attorney, Michael Lashley SC, indicated the possibility of a counter-suit against the woman who accused his client of raping her, as well as a malicious prosecution case against police.

According to political scientist and pollster Peter Wickham, the verdict has the potential to reposition Rowe as a “folk hero”, especially among constituents and supporters who may view the court decision as vindication of his claims that he was set up.

“Because he’s vindicated essentially now, he can become a folk hero as opposed to someone who was looked down upon,” Wickham told Barbados TODAY.

“So, the possibility is there, but I think he also has to be careful not to overplay his hand, because there may also be a lingering suspicion in some quarters. He may want to walk a fine line between triumphalism and a level of humility.”

Wickham referenced a similar case in Antigua involving a former Cabinet minister who faced a rape charge, was acquitted, and returned to public life—noting that, likewise, a pathway may exist for Rowe’s own political re-entry.

“As to whether he can come back, of course I see no reason why he wouldn’t. Assuming that the prime minister is comfortable, I don’t see why he shouldn’t return as Deputy Speaker,” he added.

The political future of the first-term MP—who was removed from the deputy speaker role after being charged in 2022—came under scrutiny following his acquittal on Wednesday. Rowe reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents–work which he said has been ongoing despite the ordeal, and which he will continue to do.

Political scientist Dr Kristine Hinds contended that Rowe’s comeback now depends on two factors: “It lies very much in the hands of the Barbados Labour Party, as well as the will of the constituency.”

“There may be people who think the optics of this—even though he was found not guilty—are bad, but there are also those who don’t necessarily see this as an issue anymore,” she said.

Political historian Dr George Belle agreed that the verdict clears Rowe politically and constitutionally, noting: “He faced the courts, and the court found him not guilty. So, it should not impact upon him negatively politically. But stigma and prejudice may still hang around in some quarters.”

He, however, downplayed the significance of whether Rowe returns as deputy speaker in the House of Assembly.

“A deputy speaker is not a leadership role. It’s more or less a fill-in position. He can be as effective politically as a backbencher. It’s only if the party wants to make a political point by restoring him that it matters,” Belle said.

When contacted, another political scientist, Devaron Bruce, preferred to “wait and see” how the aftermath unfolds before sharing his thoughts, especially if any further legal action follows.

The early consensus from the analysts, however, appears to be that Rowe’s political career has not only survived the ordeal but may now gather steam, provided he manages the next steps with care.

“He’s been fully redeemed in the eyes of the court,” Wickham said.

“Now it’s about what he does with that second chance.”

Rowe, who spoke following the case’s conclusion, expressed gratitude for the support he received during the trial and reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents– work which he said has been ongoing despite the ordeal and which he will continue to do.

shannamoore@barbadostoday.bb