St. Vincent and the Grenadines has ushered in a new era of leadership with the inauguration of Stanley ‘Stalky’ John as the nation’s eighth Governor General. The distinguished lawyer and former parliamentarian took his oath of office during a formal ceremony at Government House in Old Montrose on Tuesday, succeeding Dame Susan Dougan following her six-year tenure as head of state.
Prime Minister Godwin Friday, who recently assumed office after his New Democratic Party’s decisive electoral victory, presided over the transition. In his address, Friday characterized the appointment as a moment of national fortune, emphasizing John’s deep-rooted connection to the nation. “As a son of the soil, whose love of country is second to none and knows no bounds, I have no doubt that you will be exemplary in your service as Head of State,” the Prime Minister declared.
The ceremony served dual purposes: installing the new Governor General while honoring the legacy of his predecessor. Dame Susan Dougan concluded her remarkable 50-year public service career, which included roles as Cabinet Secretary and head of state. Prime Minister Friday expressed the nation’s collective gratitude for her “magnificent service” and “enduring and outstanding” contributions to national development.
Governor General John brings substantial legal and political credentials to the role. As a King’s Counsel, he has established himself as a prominent barrister known for his rigorous representation and professional dignity. His political journey includes service as a senator for the St. Vincent Labour Party (1984-1989), Parliamentary Representative for East St. George under the Unity Labour Party (1998-2001), and leadership of the SVLP (1992-1994).
Prime Minister Friday, who describes John as a long-standing friend, highlighted the new Governor General’s consistent commitment to excellence throughout his career. “Knowing him as well as I do, I can say that he could do it no other way, for he knows no other way but to give of his best,” Friday remarked.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged John’s family for their support in enabling him to accept this significant responsibility. The transition occurs alongside the recent formation of a new government that Prime Minister Friday asserts has received a “clear and unmistakable mandate” to drive progressive change and national unity.