In a historic political shift, Prime Minister Godwin Friday has extended an olive branch to supporters of the defeated Unity Labour Party following his New Democratic Party’s decisive 14-1 electoral victory on November 27. The swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet in Arnos Vale became a platform for national reconciliation as Friday addressed citizens disappointed by the election outcome.
The newly inaugurated Prime Minister emphasized his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, stating, “My ministers and I are dedicated to collaborating with all citizens who wish to contribute to St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ rapid development, peace, and progress.” Friday outlined an ambitious vision for national transformation, prioritizing youth opportunity, job creation, foreign investment, and substantial improvements in healthcare and education systems.
Acknowledging the emotional impact of the election results, Friday demonstrated remarkable empathy by noting, “I know how you feel. I have been there.” He referenced his previous electoral defeat in 2020, when the NDP lost despite winning the popular vote for the first time since 1998. The Prime Minister stressed that while political differences exist, stronger bonds of family, community, and shared national pride should transcend partisan divisions.
Friday’s victory marks the end of Ralph Gonsalves’ 24-year administration, making Gonsalves the nation’s longest-serving prime minister. In a gesture of political grace, Friday publicly thanked his predecessor for his service to the nation, acknowledging that while their approaches may have differed, he never questioned the intentions of those who offered themselves for public service.
The Prime Minister announced immediate educational reforms, including the abolition of community college admission fees and measures to make secondary education more affordable. “In this country where we value education highly,” Friday declared, “costs should not be an obstacle to basic education.” He emphasized his personal commitment to addressing economic inequalities, particularly the struggles faced by mothers making difficult choices about their children’s education and young people excluded from economic opportunities.
Friday concluded with a promise of responsive governance: “We will be a government that listens. We cannot represent you unless we find out from the people what you want us to represent you about.”