In the wake of a seismic political transformation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, regional leaders are contemplating the fundamental nature of democratic accountability. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica delivered a profound commentary on state-owned DBS Radio, emphasizing that “politics is about people” while extending congratulations to Dr. Godwin Friday and his New Democratic Party (NDP) for their landslide electoral triumph.
The political landscape experienced a dramatic reversal as Dr. Friday’s NDP secured 14 of the 15 parliamentary seats, conclusively ending the two-decade governance of Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labour Party (ULP). This decisive outcome represents not merely a change in administration but a significant recalibration of the nation’s political direction.
Prime Minister Skerrit articulated the delicate relationship between leadership and constituency, noting, “The power rests with people. People lend us the power… If you try to believe that it’s not being used properly, to their benefit, then they withdraw it.” His remarks served as both commentary on the election results and a cautionary note to sitting politicians throughout the Caribbean region regarding the perils of becoming disconnected from their electorate.
The Dominican leader further warned against the tendency of officials to become inaccessible once assuming office, stating, “You always have to make time for the people. The people put you there, therefore you have to live in custody. If that is not done, then the people will relieve you of the burden.”
Simultaneously, Skerrit extended diplomatic courtesy to the outgoing administration, acknowledging Dr. Gonsalves’ “impressive impact on the region and the world” during his lengthy tenure. The prime minister expressed anticipation for continued positive bilateral relations between Dominica and St. Vincent under the new government.
Prime Minister-designate Friday struck a conciliatory tone in his initial address, declaring an immediate public holiday and calling for national unity. “The election is behind us now and I want to see that this country comes together,” he told reporters, emphasizing his commitment to implementing the NDP’s 60-day action plan without delay.
This political transition marks a historic moment for the Eastern Caribbean nation, with regional observers noting the demonstration of democratic maturity through peaceful power transfer. The comprehensive nature of the electoral outcome suggests a clear public mandate for the incoming administration’s policy platform and governance approach.