KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — As the November 27 general election approaches, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has vowed to challenge the eligibility of opposition candidates with dual citizenship in court. Addressing supporters of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) on Tuesday night, Gonsalves, who is seeking a historic sixth consecutive term, confirmed attempts to block the nomination of New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Godwin Friday and East Kingstown candidate Fitz Bramble due to their Canadian citizenship. Both Friday and Bramble, born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, obtained Canadian citizenship as adults. Gonsalves cited Section 26 of the Constitution, which disqualifies individuals who voluntarily acknowledge allegiance to a foreign power, and referenced a 2020 Court of Appeal ruling that clarified the legal stance on such matters. Despite objections, the Returning Officer allowed their nominations, leaving the final decision to the courts. Friday, a lawyer, dismissed the challenge as a ‘dirty trick’ and expressed confidence in his re-election. Gonsalves urged voters not to ‘waste their vote’ on candidates with dual citizenship, emphasizing the legal and constitutional implications. The controversy has sparked heated debates, with both parties gearing up for a contentious election.
PM promises lawsuit over opposition candidates’ Canadian citizenship
