In a historic political shift, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has elected its first new government in nearly a quarter-century. The New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Dr. Godwin Friday, secured a decisive victory in the 2025 general elections, capturing 11 of the 15 parliamentary seats and unseating the long-ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP).
This electoral outcome concludes the remarkable 24-year tenure of Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who ranks among the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) most enduring leaders. First assuming office in 2001, the 79-year-old incumbent had been pursuing an unprecedented sixth consecutive term in power.
The victory positions Dr. Friday to become the nation’s seventh prime minister since gaining independence from Britain in 1979. His incoming administration has outlined an ambitious reform agenda prioritizing economic revitalization through job creation, wage increases, and measures to reduce the high cost of living. Additional key priorities include addressing public security concerns through enhanced crime prevention strategies and upgrading critical national infrastructure.
The NDP’s return to governance marks their first electoral triumph in 25 years, signaling a significant realignment in the nation’s political landscape and reflecting voters’ appetite for change after nearly a generation under ULP leadership.