In a remarkable political reversal, former New Democratic Party (NDP) chairman Linton Lewis shifted from harsh criticism to enthusiastic praise as the party secured a decisive 14-1 victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ November 27 general election. Lewis, who had publicly endorsed the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) just days before the election, now celebrates the very party he previously condemned for internal divisions.
The lawyer and four-time unsuccessful parliamentary candidate had told St. Vincent Times in a November 23 interview that the NDP suffered from excessive bitterness and lack of unity. His critical remarks were subsequently incorporated into the ULP’s social media campaign seeking an unprecedented sixth consecutive term.
Lewis served as NDP chairman until 2016 and as a party senator from 2012 to 2015. Despite his previous fallout with the party, he acknowledged Prime Minister-elect Godwin Friday’s ‘very strong mandate’ and expressed optimism about the NDP’s ability to govern effectively.
Reflecting on the transition from opposition to government, Lewis highlighted the challenges ahead: ‘The greatest challenge, especially coming on the heels of having been in opposition for so long, is introducing a concept of meritocracy.’ He specifically praised the working relationship between Friday and newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister St. Clair Leacock, noting their extensive history of collaboration within the party.
Lewis also addressed his previous concerns about internal party bitterness, suggesting that the overwhelming electoral mandate would facilitate unity: ‘When you have a mandate as strong as that, it augurs well for unity and a very quick unity.’ He expressed particular interest in how ministerial portfolios would be assigned and anticipated the new government would successfully implement its platform.