KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has raised concerns over the presence of eight Trinidadian lawyers and activists in St. Vincent, accusing them of attempting to interfere in the upcoming general election. Gonsalves, leader of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), made these allegations during a youth rally, emphasizing that the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) had brought these individuals to influence the electoral process. He warned that their activities could undermine the nation’s democratic integrity. Gonsalves highlighted that these lawyers must obtain proper work permits or CARICOM Skills National Certificates to operate legally in St. Vincent, labeling their current involvement as a criminal offense. He further criticized the NDP for what he described as ‘low-down worthlessness’ and attempts to disrupt the ULP’s campaign efforts. Gonsalves also expressed gratitude to Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for clarifying that her party had not sanctioned any involvement in St. Vincent’s elections. However, he speculated that UNC financiers might be seeking to ‘buy this election’ for their own interests. The ULP, which has held power since 2001, is aiming for a sixth consecutive term in the December 1 poll.
Gonsalves names Trinis lawyers allegedly interfering in SVG’s election campaign
