The 2025 general election in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been marked by unprecedented tactics and contradictions, particularly from the Unity Labour Party (ULP) led by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Despite the ULP’s reputation for intellectual prowess, their campaign has been characterized by fear-mongering and anti-democratic strategies, a stark departure from their usual approach. In his final rally, Dr. Gonsalves resorted to pleading on his knees, a dramatic shift from his earlier confidence that losing was impossible. This campaign has exposed significant contradictions within the ULP’s rhetoric and actions. For instance, Dr. Gonsalves previously mocked the New Democratic Party (NDP) for filing election petitions in 2015, stating that elections are won on the day, not in court. Yet, the ULP is now threatening election petitions to retain power, undermining their claim to democratic principles. Additionally, Dr. Gonsalves has criticized dual citizenship while his own family members hold multiple passports, and he has distributed misleading placards about passport ownership. The ULP’s stance on the sale of passports is equally contradictory. While they oppose such policies in St. Vincent, Dr. Gonsalves has publicly supported similar initiatives in other Caribbean nations, such as Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, which funds major infrastructure projects without burdening taxpayers. This hypocrisy raises questions about the ULP’s consistency and integrity. Furthermore, the ULP has misled the public about land sales, claiming the NDP would sell out the country’s lands while the ULP itself has sold prime land to foreign investors. The neglect of the Grenadine islands, a unique asset for tourism, further highlights the ULP’s failure to prioritize national development. The campaign has also seen regional politicians like Tevin Andrews endorsing ULP candidates while advocating different policies in their own countries. As the election approaches, it is clear that the ULP’s campaign is riddled with contradictions and questionable tactics, leaving voters to question the party’s credibility and commitment to democratic principles.
分类： politics
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Netwerkreceptie Onderstreept Nieuwe Koers voor Suriname
On Monday, November 24, 2025, Suriname marked the 50th anniversary of its independence, known as Srefidensi, with a networking reception at the Press Center. The event, attended by President Jennifer Simons, brought together a diverse group of national and international stakeholders to reflect on half a century of statehood and emphasize the shared responsibility for Suriname’s future development. The gathering served as a platform for constructive dialogue between representatives from the public and private sectors, international partners, and civil society organizations. Central to the discussions was the belief that Suriname’s progress hinges on collaboration—both among its citizens and through strengthened ties with friendly nations and multilateral institutions. The evening was characterized by the exchange of expertise, the strengthening of relationships, and the exploration of new opportunities for sustainable growth. Notable attendees included Vice President Gregory Rusland, several ministers, members of the diplomatic corps—such as the ambassadors of China, Guyana, and Cuba—UN Resident Coordinator Joanna Kazana, and various directors from business and government sectors. President Simons opened the event with a call for collective effort in shaping Suriname’s future. ‘We know the past. Now is the time to build a new future together, with all Surinamers and our partners,’ she stated, underscoring the role of every stakeholder in determining the nation’s trajectory in the coming decades. The reception aimed to create a space for open discussions on opportunities, challenges, and business prospects that contribute to Suriname’s continued development. By fostering connection, dialogue, and shared ambition, the event set the stage for the next phase in Suriname’s journey toward progress.
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SLP releases 2025 manifesto focused on technology, equity, national renewal
The Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has officially launched its 2025 Manifesto, titled “Moving Forward Together,” ahead of the upcoming General Election. This comprehensive document outlines a bold vision for the nation, focusing on technological advancement, economic stability, and enhanced social protection. Prime Minister Philip J Pierre emphasized that the manifesto builds on the government’s accomplishments since 2021 and aims to position Saint Lucia as the most technologically advanced Small Island Developing State by 2035. Key priorities include strengthening governance, ensuring economic growth, and reducing unemployment rates. Infrastructure development remains a central focus, with plans to modernize the Hewanorra International Airport, expand seaport capacity, upgrade water systems, construct new bus terminals, and deliver state-of-the-art medical facilities, including the Soufrière Hospital and the recently completed St Jude Hospital. The SLP also pledges to create job opportunities in tourism, construction, BPO operations, and emerging technology sectors, while introducing a national unemployment insurance program to safeguard workers. Healthcare modernization is another cornerstone, with digital patient integration, expanded universal health coverage, and improved community health services. Education reform is equally prioritized, with goals to digitize half of all classrooms by 2035, broaden early-childhood access, and strengthen technical and vocational training. The manifesto also highlights plans to boost tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing through local participation, community tourism, and technological advancements. Maritime development, including a modernized Vieux Fort Port and a National Maritime Academy, is part of the economic diversification strategy. Citizen security is addressed through expanded police force funding, upgraded facilities, and community-based crime prevention initiatives. Housing affordability is another key focus, with promises of multi-family developments, improved land title access, and incentives for first-time homeowners. Digital transformation is a recurring theme, with plans for a National Artificial Intelligence Centre, enhanced cybersecurity, and expanded high-speed internet access. The SLP concludes by reaffirming its commitment to a people-centered approach, positioning itself as the most credible choice for Saint Lucia’s future.
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Trump Envoy’s Leaked Call Raises Questions in Ukraine Peace Talks
A leaked recording of a phone call involving U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff has stirred significant controversy amid ongoing efforts to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia. The leak, published by Bloomberg, reveals Witkoff advising a Russian official on strategies to gain President Donald Trump’s favor, including praising Trump as a “man of peace” and maintaining a positive tone. This revelation has raised questions about the impartiality and transparency of U.S. involvement in the peace talks. The call occurred in October, just weeks before Witkoff is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss a revised peace proposal backed by Trump. The initial draft of the plan faced criticism from Ukraine and European leaders for aligning too closely with Russian demands, including territorial concessions. Although the proposal has since been modified, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains cautious, expressing readiness to meet Trump to address unresolved issues. Trump defended Witkoff, describing him as a “dealmaker” focused on advancing the peace plan. The leak has added complexity to an already delicate diplomatic process, with Ukraine supporting the “essence” of the proposal but many details still under negotiation.
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Court hears officer’s testimony on vehicles suspected to be proceeds of crime in Gibson trial
The high-profile criminal trial of Long Island Member of Parliament Adrian Gibson recommenced proceedings yesterday following an extended hiatus, with law enforcement testimony revealing new details about asset seizures connected to alleged corruption. Gibson, who previously served as executive chairman of the Water and Sewerage Corporation, faces charges alongside four co-defendants including former general manager Elwood Donaldson Jr., Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick. The case centers on contracts awarded during Gibson’s leadership of the utility corporation.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Mackey provided pivotal testimony regarding multiple vehicle seizures suspected of being acquired through illicit means. According to his account, authorities recovered a champagne-colored 2012 Toyota Previa from the Hollywood Subdivision and a blue Mazda from a Montell Heights beauty salon on May 30, 2024. The officer further disclosed that two additional vehicles were impounded on Long Island, with some purchases allegedly connected to Elite Maintenance.
ASP Mackey confirmed executing detention orders against both Jerome Missick and Adrian Gibson, formally identifying the parliamentarian before the court. Under cross-examination from defense counsel Murrio Ducille, KC, the officer maintained that proper arrest protocols were followed, including the reading of rights to Missick. When questioned about evidence implicating Missick, ASP Mackey referenced an undisclosed company association not mentioned in the defendant’s official statement.
The prosecution team, led by Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier, presented search warrants listing Gibson, Knowles, Missick, and corporate entity Oak Bay Limited in connection with the Long Island vehicle seizures. ASP Mackey refuted defense suggestions that the day’s proceedings were inconsequential, asserting the significance of the evidence presented.
The case is being heard before Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson, with a substantial legal team representing the defendants including multiple King’s Counsel attorneys. The resumption of proceedings marks a significant development in a trial that has drawn considerable public attention to governance and accountability within Bahamian political institutions.
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St Vinncent Opposition wins general elections, ousting Gonsalves after 24 years
KINGSTON, Jamaica — St Vincent and the Grenadines has witnessed a monumental political transformation with the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) securing a decisive victory in the 2025 general elections. This electoral outcome terminates the unprecedented 25-year governance of former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labour Party.
Official results reported by St Vincent Times confirm the NDP’s commanding parliamentary majority, capturing 11 legislative seats during preliminary vote counting. This sweeping win positions Dr. Godwin Friday, the NDP leader, to assume the role of the nation’s seventh prime minister since gaining independence from Britain in 1979.
The political transition follows an intensely contested electoral battle between Dr. Friday’s progressive platform and the established administration of Gonsalves, one of the Caribbean’s longest-serving political figures. The outcome reflects a palpable public demand for governmental change and new policy directions.
As the nation anticipates its leadership transition, attention now shifts to Prime Minister-elect Friday’s administration formation and his policy blueprint for addressing critical national challenges. The incoming government faces mounting expectations to implement economic revitalization strategies and address pressing social development priorities across the multi-island nation.
This historic power shift represents not merely a change in governing parties but potentially a fundamental realignment of Vincentian political dynamics, with implications for both domestic governance and the country’s international partnerships within the Caribbean Community and broader global arena.
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JLP congratulates Dr Godwin Friday and NDP on election victory in St Vincent
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has formally congratulated opposition leader Dr. Godwin Friday and his New Democratic Party (NDP) for securing victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ recent general elections.
In an official communiqué released Thursday, the JLP characterized the electoral outcome as a definitive expression of the democratic will of Vincentian voters. The statement emphasized that this peaceful transfer of power underscores the robustness of democratic institutions throughout the Caribbean region.
The Jamaican party further articulated its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with its Caribbean neighbor. This diplomatic overture specifically highlighted several key areas for enhanced collaboration, including advancing CARICOM integration initiatives, developing climate adaptation strategies, and creating expanded economic opportunities for citizens across both nations.
“We extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Friday and the NDP while wishing them productive governance during their upcoming term in service to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” the JLP’s statement concluded, signaling a spirit of regional solidarity despite political differences.
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High Court dismisses UNC activist’s claim against ex-Speaker
In a definitive judgment reinforcing the separation of powers, the Trinidad and Tobago High Court has emphatically dismissed a judicial review claim brought by United National Congress (UNC) activist Ravi Balgobin Maharaj. The case centered on former House Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George’s refusal to incorporate Maharaj’s written rebuttal into the official parliamentary record following statements made about him during legislative proceedings.
Justice Joan Charles, delivering her November 26 ruling, determined that the Speaker’s decision—made pursuant to Standing Order 18 of the House of Representatives’ Standing Orders—falls squarely within Parliament’s exclusive domain over its internal affairs. This jurisdiction, the court affirmed, enjoys constitutional protection from judicial interference.
The court recognized that Trinidad and Tobago’s Constitution expressly incorporates all privileges and immunities of the United Kingdom parliament into its own House of Representatives. Justice Charles concurred with arguments presented by state attorneys that the Speaker’s determination did not constitute an infringement of Maharaj’s fundamental rights and remained shielded by parliamentary privilege.
“The Speaker of the House of Representatives serves as the sole adjudicator regarding the interpretation and application of Standing Orders,” Justice Charles stated in her written decision. “Matters concerning the veracity or basis of members’ statements lie beyond the Speaker’s purview—and consequently outside judicial review.”
The legal challenge emerged from Maharaj’s contention that remarks delivered in Parliament had damaged his reputation and that the Speaker’s refusal to allow his response violated his constitutional right to legal protection and natural justice. He sought declarations that the May 2024 decisions were unfair, irrational, and unconstitutional.
However, the court emphasized that Standing Order 18—which permits non-members referenced in debate to submit written responses—explicitly prohibits the Speaker from evaluating the truthfulness of either the original statements or the rebuttal. This procedural mechanism, Justice Charles noted, exists primarily as an internal parliamentary accommodation rather than a legally enforceable right.
Representing the state, Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes and Deborah Peake successfully argued that judicial examination of the Speaker’s motives would violate constitutional separation of powers. The court agreed, dismissing both the claim and leave application while directing parties to submit cost arguments within 30 days.
The ruling reinforces the autonomy of parliamentary proceedings throughout Commonwealth jurisdictions and establishes significant precedent regarding the limits of judicial intervention in legislative affairs.
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Moonilal: Sending AG to privileges trivial, frivolous
In a recent development in Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament, Attorney General John Jeremie has been referred to the Privileges Committee over comments made during a ‘hot mic’ moment in the Lower House. Oropouche East MP Dr. Roodal Moonilal has dismissed the referral as ‘trivial and frivolous,’ emphasizing that such banter is commonplace in parliamentary proceedings. Speaking at his constituency office in Debe on November 26, Moonilal, a former leader of government business, recalled his own participation in similar exchanges over the years. He argued that the country faces more pressing issues than what he termed ‘irrelevant and useless escapades.’
Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales, however, defended the referral, stating that it was necessary to address AG Jeremie’s persistent use of derogatory language in Parliament. Gonzales cited an instance where Jeremie was overheard saying, ‘Hush your mouth, boy, why you ain’t take your little man?’ Moonilal responded by noting that all MPs have the right to raise matters of privilege, but the final decision rests with the Speaker.
In a separate but related matter, Moonilal commented on the recent visit by General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Trinidad and Tobago. While he deferred to the Prime Minister and relevant ministers on national security issues, Moonilal expressed optimism about the high-level discussions on regional security. He highlighted the serious threats posed by narco-traffickers and drug cartels in the Caribbean, underscoring the importance of such diplomatic engagements.
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Vincentians vote as Gonsalves vies for 6th stint in gov’t
KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — A decisive general election unfolds today in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with over 103,000 eligible voters heading to 250 polling stations. This electoral contest is widely viewed as a potential watershed moment that might conclude the extensive political tenure of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) longest-serving head of government.
The 79-year-old leader is steering his ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) into the fray, aiming for an unprecedented sixth consecutive term in office. However, the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), led by 66-year-old attorney Dr. Godwin Friday, is mounting a formidable challenge to dismantle the ULP’s quarter-century dominance and bring the party out of its prolonged political exile.
Electoral competition spans all 15 constituencies, with both the ULP and NDP contesting every seat. The political landscape also features smaller players, including the National Liberation Movement (NLM). Its leader, Dr. Doris Charles, is vying for the South Leeward constituency. She is joined by independent candidate Kenna Questelles, who is contesting the West St. George seat, adding further diversity to the ballot.
The outcome remains highly uncertain. The previous general election resulted in a ULP victory, securing nine of the 15 parliamentary seats. Political analysts are closely monitoring whether the electorate will grant Dr. Gonsalves another mandate or usher in a new political chapter under Dr. Friday’s leadership, signaling a profound shift in the nation’s governance.