The 2025 election in St. Vincent is not just another political event; it is a historic moment that lays bare the stark inequalities within the nation. For 25 years, a significant portion of the population has struggled to make ends meet, with opportunities flowing disproportionately to a privileged few. This select group, comfortably ensconced in their green pastures, has reaped the benefits of multiple jobs, real estate advantages, and exclusive opportunities, while the majority has been left to survive on the scraps tossed their way. The prospect of change threatens the lifestyle these elites have enjoyed for decades, and they are prepared to take extreme measures to preserve it. However, the tide is turning. Vincentians are awakening, no longer blinded by propaganda or fear. They are thinking collectively, not just individually. On election day, it will be clear who stands to lose: not the struggling single mother, the young graduate, the farmer, or the nurse, but the fattened cows on the green pasture who refuse to share the field. The people of St. Vincent are done groveling for scraps; they are ready to rise, eat well, and prosper. The battle is not against flesh and blood but against the principalities and powers in high places. The question echoing across the nation is: who, exactly, stands to lose? The answer is clear: it will not be the people.
分类： politics
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Independent Stanley Felix outlines plans to revive Castries Central
Stanley Felix, former President of the Senate and independent candidate, officially kicked off his campaign season with a public meeting in New Village on Tuesday night. Under the banner ‘Serving People, Stirring Change,’ Felix unveiled his comprehensive plans to address key social issues in Castries Central, including improved housing access, support for single mothers, and government-sponsored bus passes for schoolchildren. Felix, who announced his independent candidacy on October 13 via DBS Television, is making a political comeback after narrowly losing the Castries Central seat in 2011. This time, he will face Richard Frederick, now representing the Labour Party, and Rosh Clarke of the United Workers Party (UWP), both running as independents. Felix emphasized that his decision to re-enter politics stems from a commitment to directly serve the people and tackle long-standing challenges in the constituency. He pledged to make land more accessible for young families, enabling them to build stable lives. Additionally, Felix proposed a government-funded bus pass program for schoolchildren, addressing the financial burden on parents. He also highlighted the struggles of single mothers, promising to introduce social programs and after-school workshops to empower them. Reflecting on Castries Central’s past as a thriving hub of sports, culture, and talent, Felix vowed to restore its vitality and urged residents to join his ‘Orange Movement’ for transformative change.
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A Donald Trump in St. Vincent and the Grenadines?
Vincentians, much like people worldwide, hold strong and often polarized views on former U.S. President Donald Trump. Given the significant Vincentian diaspora in North America, these opinions are shaped by both local and global contexts. Trump’s presidency, marked by controversy and unconventional leadership, has sparked reflections on what a ‘Vincy Donald Trump’ might resemble. This analysis delves into key aspects of Trump’s tenure, drawing parallels to familiar leadership traits observed in Vincentian society.
Trump’s presidency was marred by numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, with multiple women coming forward to accuse him of assault. This pattern of behavior, coupled with recorded instances of disparaging remarks about women, raises questions about respect and accountability in leadership. Such conduct, while shocking to some, may resonate with Vincentians who have witnessed similar dynamics in their own political landscape.
Another notable feature of Trump’s administration was the appointment of family members to key government positions, leading to accusations of nepotism. This concentration of power within a familial circle mirrors practices that some Vincentians may recognize in their own governance structures.
Trump’s involvement in the Epstein scandal, though not fully disclosed, has raised eyebrows. His party’s efforts to block the release of related files suggest a potential misuse of influence to protect allies. This tactic of shielding information from the public may strike a chord with Vincentians familiar with opaque political maneuvers.
During his presidency, Trump frequently blamed Democrats for government shutdowns, despite his party’s control of Congress. This deflection of responsibility is a strategy that some Vincentians may find reminiscent of local political rhetoric.
Trump’s 2024 campaign, which focused heavily on the age of his opponent, Joe Biden, despite his own advanced years, highlights a tendency to project criticism onto others. This tactic of deflecting scrutiny may resonate with Vincentians who have observed similar political strategies.
Finally, Trump’s call for supporters to protest on January 6, 2021, and the subsequent push for a third term, underscore his relentless pursuit of power. This ambition, even at the cost of democratic norms, may mirror leadership behaviors familiar to Vincentians.
In conclusion, the parallels between Trump’s leadership and certain traits observed in Vincentian politics invite reflection on the nature of power, accountability, and governance. As Vincentians critique Trump, they are also prompted to examine their own political landscape with a critical eye.
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Police defend decision to deny UPP permission for political event
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has officially denied a request from the United Progressive Party (UPP) to conduct a whistle stop event in the Constituency of Rural East. The decision, announced on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, was based on a thorough evaluation of operational and security concerns, including the proposed timing, which overlapped with peak traffic periods and raised potential safety issues. Despite the denial, the Police Administration approved a motorcade event scheduled for Sunday, 16th November 2025, following a prior application by the UPP. Formal approval was communicated to the UPP General Secretary on Tuesday, 11th November 2025. Acting Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers emphasized the force’s commitment to maintaining public safety and order, stating that all decisions are guided by safety considerations and the efficient allocation of police resources. He called for continued cooperation from citizens and organizations to ensure a peaceful environment. The Police Administration reaffirmed its dedication to fairness, professionalism, and integrity in serving the citizens and residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Chief Election Officer says voter confirmation process ‘going well’ thus far
Chief Election Officer Anthea Joseph has announced that more than 4000 individuals have applied for voter confirmation since the process commenced on October 15, 2025. Speaking during a recent statement, Joseph expressed satisfaction with the progress, acknowledging minor issues that have arisen but emphasizing that they are being addressed promptly. She highlighted the importance of appropriate attire for photo identification at the confirmation centers, explicitly prohibiting hats, sunglasses, and headbands. Despite rumors and negative comments circulating on some radio stations and within communities, Joseph noted that many applicants have reported a smooth and transparent process. She encouraged individuals, including those who cannot read or write, to participate without hesitation, assuring them of assistance from enrollment officers. Joseph underscored the significance of the confirmation process, stating that it is a democratic right and a prerequisite for inclusion on the new voters list. She warned that failure to confirm would result in exclusion from future electoral processes in Dominica, stressing the necessity of a voter ID card for participation in upcoming elections.
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Robert Vishnudatt: “Nodeloze poeha over belastingontduiking”
Robert Vishnudatt, a prominent Surinamese politician and founder of the political organization Volkspartij Leefbaar Suriname, has dismissed recent reports in Dutch media alleging his conviction for tax evasion as “unnecessary fuss.” The reports claimed that Vishnudatt was sentenced to ten months in prison for failing to pay turnover tax on his former security company, Care Events, in the Netherlands between 2018 and 2023. The initial reported amount of €420,000 was later corrected to €180,000. Vishnudatt refuted the allegations, stating that any tax arrears could be resolved through a payment arrangement with the Dutch tax authorities. He emphasized that he has not fled Suriname and maintains regular contact with the Dutch embassy, having last spoken with them in August. Vishnudatt also highlighted that such accusations are not new, recalling previous unfounded claims linking him to money laundering involving VHP leader Chan Santokhi. He plans to investigate the matter thoroughly before issuing a formal statement, noting the impact on his family and community.
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Unnecessary bureaucracy
The People’s National Party (PNP), Jamaica’s main opposition party, has clarified its refusal to participate in a Joint Select Committee (JSC) overseeing hurricane recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. The decision has sparked criticism from the government, which accused the PNP of inconsistency and a lack of principled leadership.
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PM: ‘Fake news’ meant to undermine anti-drug operations
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has issued a stark warning to her nation about the dangers of fake news, which she claims is being used to disrupt ongoing efforts to combat narco-trafficking and organized crime. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Persad-Bissessar shared a video clip featuring US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who vehemently denied a CNN report alleging that the UK had ceased sharing specific intelligence with the US. This intelligence pertains to anti-drug missile strikes that have reportedly killed nearly 70 people since September 2.
Persad-Bissessar emphasized the importance of verifying information, stating, ‘Once again, US Secretary of State @SecRubio has refuted a false report published in the international media – a story that was irresponsibly repeated by some local outlets and presented to our citizens as fact.’ She reaffirmed her government’s commitment to collaborating with the US in a coordinated effort to curb the influx of drugs, firearms, and human trafficking into Trinidad and Tobago.
The Prime Minister also diverged from her Caricom counterparts by asserting that the Caribbean cannot be considered a zone of peace until decisive measures are taken to eradicate the illegal drug trade. ‘The Caribbean cannot be called a zone of peace – and TT will not be one – so long as powerful cartels continue to wreak havoc and destroy lives,’ she declared. Persad-Bissessar vowed to continue strengthening national security systems in partnership with the US to ensure the safety and security of her nation.
In a press briefing on November 12, Rubio addressed the CNN report, labeling it as ‘false’ and ‘fake.’ He criticized the sources cited in the article, accusing them of having hidden agendas. ‘What’s happening is people with a business card with a government e-mail on it becomes sources – but they’re not even in the know, they have an agenda or want to make themselves important,’ Rubio stated. He also accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of leading a narco-terrorist regime that supplies illegal drugs to the US and Europe, suggesting that Europe should be grateful for US efforts to combat this threat.
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Vincentian PM’s Trini wife hits Victoria Keyes claims as ‘political malice’
Eloise Gonsalves, the wife of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, has firmly refuted allegations of corruption surrounding her family’s acquisition of properties at the Victoria Keyes housing development in Diego Martin, Trinidad. In a video shared on the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Facebook page on November 13, Eloise, who was born in Trinidad to Dominican parents, emphasized that her family received no preferential treatment in their dealings with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). She dismissed the claims made by Minister in the Ministry of Housing Anil Roberts on November 11 as ‘political malice,’ attributing them to the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) ahead of the November 25 general election. Eloise stated, ‘The political malice has started against my family. But if the NDP gets in, it ends with you and your family. They are attacking Grace Walters (a ULP candidate) viciously and now they’re lying about us.’ She explained that the property investment was a family decision following the destruction of her 90-year-old mother’s home during Hurricane Maria, with the aim of providing housing for her mother’s sons and grandchildren in Trinidad. Prime Minister Gonsalves echoed his wife’s sentiments during a November 12 broadcast on NBC Radio in St Vincent, labeling Roberts’ statements as ‘misrepresentations’ and ‘falsehoods.’ He accused Roberts of violating his family’s rights as Trinidadian citizens and engaging in ‘political mischief’ by disclosing private information. Gonsalves denied any misuse of political influence to secure advantages for his family.
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Government on fete ban criticisms: ‘Storm in a tea cup’
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has downplayed criticisms surrounding its decision to prohibit fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, describing the backlash as “a storm in a tea cup.” The decision, announced earlier this week by the Urban Development Corporation (Udecott), aims to address noise pollution concerns raised by residents. Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Barry Padarath, emphasized that the matter will be resolved through a combination of consultations and legislative action. Speaking at a certificate of comfort distribution ceremony in Chaguanas on November 13, Padarath referenced Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent social media statement highlighting the adverse effects of noise from fetes on local communities. He assured that the government is committed to harmonizing policy with legislation and engaging stakeholders to find viable alternatives. Padarath also noted that the ban would not significantly impact Carnival celebrations or the revenue of Udecott-managed venues. He cited the Hyatt Regency hotel and the Government Campus Plaza as examples of facilities outside residential areas that could host events without causing disturbances. Attorney General John Jeremie is currently reviewing existing Environmental Management Authority (EMA) laws to address noise pollution, which have not been updated in years. Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein highlighted the government’s recent ban on public fireworks displays during Independence Day, citing the need to protect vulnerable populations and animals. He revealed that new legislation on fireworks usage is in its final stages and will soon be presented to Parliament. Roger Marshall of the Fireworks Action Coalition of TT (FACTT) welcomed the government’s decisive approach, urging fete promoters and fireworks users to act responsibly and consider the broader community impact.