As St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) gears up for the 2025 general elections, the selection of candidates by the two dominant political parties—the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP)—reveals persistent patterns of underrepresentation across various demographics. Despite the significant contributions of women to Vincentian society, only five women are contesting across 15 constituencies, with three representing the ULP and two for the NDP. Both parties, historically led by male lawyers, continue to reflect a lack of gender diversity in leadership roles. The dominance of legal professionals among candidates further highlights the need for broader occupational representation, including health professionals, engineers, and environmental specialists, to address the multifaceted challenges facing SVG. Age diversity also remains a concern, with party leaders in their 60s and 80s, though the ULP has made strides in fielding younger candidates. Racial, ethnic, and religious diversity among candidates is notably limited, with the majority being of Afro-descendant heritage and Christian backgrounds. LGBTQ+ representation is absent, and persons with disabilities are also underrepresented. While diversity alone does not guarantee effective governance, it ensures that the voices of all societal groups are heard in shaping national development. Moving forward, there is an urgent need for more inclusive candidate selection processes to better reflect the rich diversity of SVG’s population.
博客
-
Ecuadorian group affirms blockade on Cuba violates rights
In a recent communication to Alena Douhan, the UN Special Rapporteur on unilateral coercive measures, the Ecuadorian organization CPAZ highlighted the detrimental effects of the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba. The embargo, which has been in place for over six decades, has been described by CPAZ as ‘an act of genocide and the principal violation of human rights’ against the Cuban population. The group emphasized that the sanctions, particularly those reinforced between March 2024 and February 2025, severely impact essential sectors such as health, food, education, and technology access. CPAZ pointed out that these measures prevent Cuba from obtaining critical resources like medicines, medical equipment, agricultural inputs, credit, and advanced technologies. Additionally, the organization criticized the extraterritorial provisions of the Helms-Burton Act, which deter foreign investment and penalize third-country companies engaging with Cuba. The statement underscored the dire consequences for Cubans, including restricted access to cancer medications, HIV/AIDS treatments, diagnostic equipment, and surgical supplies, as international suppliers avoid trade with Cuba due to fear of U.S. sanctions.
-
Young leader for diabetes urges Dominicans to prioritize health and wellness
Royette Charles, a prominent figure in Dominica’s health sector, is leading a powerful campaign to raise awareness about diabetes and promote healthier lifestyles. As an Executive Member of the Dominica Diabetes Association, Young Leader for Diabetes, and Pharmacy Technician, Ms. Charles is dedicated to inspiring hope among individuals living with diabetes while encouraging the broader population to adopt preventive measures. She emphasizes that diabetes is a serious health condition requiring consistent effort, discipline, and proactive lifestyle changes. Ms. Charles advocates for balanced routines, including healthier dietary choices, regular physical activity, and sustainable wellness habits. She also highlights the importance of empowering those already diagnosed to manage their condition effectively through proper monitoring and education. In her recent media address, she stressed the critical role of understanding how to use testing supplies correctly, noting that effective management of diabetes can significantly enhance quality of life and overall well-being.
-
Government Ramps Up Farm Support With Security, Water and Access Upgrades
In response to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Caribbean region, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to enhance national food security. Recognizing the potential risks posed by rising uncertainties, particularly between Venezuela and the United States, the government has prioritized a significant boost in domestic agricultural production. This initiative aims to safeguard the nation’s access to affordable and reliable food supplies, ensuring resilience against potential disruptions in regional supply chains.
Over the past decade, Antigua and Barbuda has made notable progress in agricultural development, including the expansion of farm infrastructure, construction of dams, implementation of drip-irrigation systems, and provision of incentives for farmers. However, the Cabinet emphasized that current global and regional challenges necessitate a more intensified national effort. As part of this renewed focus, lands leased for farming but left unproductive will be reassigned. Farmers failing to utilize their acreage within 30 days will see their lands reallocated to active farmers and cooperatives ready to cultivate. The Cabinet clarified that this measure is not punitive but essential to maximize the contribution of agricultural assets to food security, employment, and economic sustainability.
To support this initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture has been directed to accelerate state assistance to the farming community. Immediate actions include fencing farms to prevent theft, expanding nursery production, constructing new wells and dams, lighting farms for enhanced security, and improving farm access roads. Additionally, fishermen will receive fuel subsidies, acknowledging their critical role in the domestic food supply chain.
The government also announced the establishment of an Agro-Industrial Park at Diamonds and an Eco Park at Christian Valley to modernize large-scale production and support agro-enterprise development. Furthermore, the national reforestation program has been revised, with a new target of planting 300,000 trees annually, deemed both challenging and achievable. This initiative aims to bolster climate resilience, restore watersheds, and enhance biodiversity.
Over the last decade, Antigua and Barbuda has expanded domestic egg, poultry, and livestock production, implemented duty-free concessions for farm equipment, and invested in drought-resilient technologies. The Cabinet underscored the urgency of transitioning into full “production mode” to reduce dependence on food imports, stating, “Food security is national security.”
The government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with farmers, fishermen, the private sector, and educational institutions to position Antigua and Barbuda as one of the most food-secure small states in the Western Hemisphere.
-
NDP launches manifesto of ‘bold, transformative plans’
The New Democratic Party (NDP), the primary opposition in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), has officially launched its manifesto for the upcoming general election. Party leader Godwin Friday described the document as a blueprint for \”bold, transformative plans\” aimed at reshaping the nation over the next five years. Speaking to supporters in Keartons, Barrouallie, Friday emphasized that the manifesto encapsulates the party’s vision for economic growth, public safety, and infrastructure development.
-
Restoration of Ernesto Guevara Museum Progresses in Cuba
At a site declared a National Monument in 1990, restoration teams are diligently working across various sections, with primary focus on repairing train cars and constructing a protective wall to mitigate the impact of a nearby river. This unique location, designed by the acclaimed Cuban architect Jose Delarra, commemorates the derailment and capture of an armored train by Che Guevara’s troops in December 1958 during the Battle of Santa Clara—a decisive moment in the Cuban Revolution. The military convoy, laden with soldiers and weapons, was en route to reinforce dictator Batista’s troops in eastern Cuba but was intercepted by Che’s forces, altering the course of history. Lilian Laura Rodriguez, the museum’s director, highlighted the collaborative efforts of local entities, including Cuban Railways, the Institute of Hydraulic Resources, and the Provincial Directorate of Culture, in addressing the site’s primary challenges. The restoration plan aims to complete the first two train cars by December 29, marking the 67th anniversary of the historic event. Despite ongoing restoration work on planters, paving stones, and other sculptural elements like columns and pedestals, the museum remains open to the public, offering a glimpse into Cuba’s revolutionary past.
-
Israel challenges Sabby: ‘Tell them pull me file’
The political contest in South Central Windward has intensified as opposition candidate Israel Bruce demands incumbent Saboto Caesar to clarify allegations surrounding Bruce’s removal as a teacher from North Union Secondary School. Bruce, representing the New Democratic Party (NDP), challenged Caesar during a radio interview on Hot 97 FM, urging him to disclose the details he has hinted at. This marks Bruce’s second attempt to unseat Caesar, who is vying for a fourth consecutive term. Bruce dismissed the allegations, stating that teacher transfers are a routine matter under the Ministry of Education’s policies and do not require justification. He further challenged Caesar to produce his employment records, emphasizing that the Ministry maintains staff files. The rivalry between the two candidates has grown increasingly personal, with Caesar criticizing Bruce for his legal representation of individuals accused of robbing Caesar’s wife in 2018. However, Caesar did not mention that his wife later withdrew the charges voluntarily. Bruce, in turn, accused Caesar of neglecting the needs of South Central Windward, particularly regarding unemployment among young men and challenges faced by farmers. The exchange highlights the deepening animosity between the candidates as the election approaches.
-
UNC Councillor Ramona Victor, husband dead
The Siparia community is in shock following the tragic deaths of Councillor Ramona Victor and her husband, whose bodies were discovered on Coora Road, Siparia, on November 23. While details surrounding the incident remain unclear, authorities have confirmed the grim findings. Ramona Victor, a dedicated representative for Siparia East/San Francique South, was widely respected for her unwavering commitment to public service and her tireless efforts to uplift her community. Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayrhoo expressed profound grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, praising Victor’s legacy of compassion, leadership, and service. He described her as a hardworking and passionate servant of the Siparia Borough Corporation, whose contributions will continue to inspire. Mayor Mayrhoo revealed that he first learned of her death around 4 pm on November 23 and attempted to contact her repeatedly without success. The devastating news was later confirmed by another official. The community has been plunged into mourning as they grapple with the loss of a beloved leader and her husband.
-
Fitz-Henley and Tavares-Finson return to St Elizabeth with building supplies, urge multi-stakeholder effort
Government Senators Abka Fitz-Henley and Christian Tavares-Finson have emphasized the critical role of private stakeholders in aiding the state’s efforts to provide secure shelter for Jamaicans displaced by Hurricane Melissa. The senators made this appeal during their recent visit to several communities in St. Elizabeth, where they distributed essential building supplies, including cement, tarpaulin, zinc, nails, and water, all sourced from private contributions. These supplies were delivered to residents in Black River, Springvale, and Middle Quarters, areas severely impacted by the hurricane.
-
Eze treble fuels Arsenal’s derby rout of Spurs
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze delivered a masterclass performance, scoring a hat-trick to lead his team to a resounding 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London Derby. The match, held at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, saw Arsenal extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to six points, further solidifying their title aspirations.