标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Kishore Shallow, the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for North Leeward, has announced his intention to release potentially damaging information about members of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) during the ongoing election campaign. Speaking at an NDP rally in Biabou on Saturday night, Shallow claimed to possess detailed “files” on ULP members, which he plans to disclose after seeking approval from NDP leader Godwin Friday.

The political landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been dominated by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) for over two decades, but recent electoral data suggests a significant shift in voter support towards the New Democratic Party (NDP). A detailed analysis of election results from 2001 to 2020 reveals a compelling narrative of the NDP’s gradual rise in popularity, challenging the long-standing dominance of the ULP.

Marvin ‘Mega’ Fraser, the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) candidate for Central Kingstown, is making waves in the constituency with what he calls the ‘Mega effect.’ A first-time political contender, Fraser is challenging St. Clair Leacock of the New Democratic Party (NDP), who has held the seat since 2010. Fraser, a former president of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), is leveraging his community ties and leadership experience to rally support. At a recent ULP Strong Rally in Richmond Hill, Fraser emphasized his commitment to Central Kingstown’s development, promising practical training, improved infrastructure, and enhanced social services. He highlighted his initiatives, such as organizing a local football competition that drew significant community engagement, including the attendance of his political opponent. Fraser’s campaign focuses on progress, unity, and addressing the needs of constituents, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and housing. He criticized the NDP’s proposed citizenship by investment (CBI) programme, which the ULP has long opposed. With the general election set for November 27, Fraser is confident that the ULP’s vision for Central Kingstown will resonate with voters, marking a new chapter of growth and opportunity.

Luke Browne, a seasoned politician and former Minister of Health, is embarking on his fourth campaign to secure the East Kingstown constituency for the Unity Labour Party (ULP). Addressing supporters in Richmond Hill, Browne expressed confidence, stating, “East Kingstown is finally going to come home to Labour.” This constituency has been a stronghold of the New Democratic Party (NDP) for the past four decades, making Browne’s challenge a significant political endeavor.

The Caribbean region finds itself at a critical crossroads as escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela threaten to destabilize the area. Recent military actions, including a strike on a speedboat in international waters allegedly carrying Trinidadian fishermen, have heightened fears among local communities. The U.S. has bolstered its naval presence in the region, citing efforts to combat drug trafficking, but many view these moves as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. This has left Caribbean citizens, particularly fishermen, living in fear of violent, extrajudicial consequences. The lack of clear communication and leadership from Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders has only exacerbated the situation. CARICOM, established in 1973 to coordinate foreign policies and ensure regional security, has failed to address the crisis effectively. Citizens are calling for an emergency session to discuss the conflict and demand a joint statement outlining a path forward. Historically, the Caribbean has been a bastion of peace, often mediating disputes in Latin America. However, the current silence from regional leaders risks undermining this legacy. The region’s collective voice, amplified through organizations like the United Nations and the Organisation of American States, holds significant potential to influence global discourse. Yet, without decisive action, the Caribbean risks becoming collateral damage in a conflict that could have dire consequences for its people and economies. Long-term solutions, such as bolstering national security and drafting evacuation plans, are essential. The time has come for Caribbean leaders to demonstrate true statesmanship and prioritize the safety and well-being of their citizens over political posturing.

Marvin “Mega” Fraser, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for Central Kingstown, delivered a compelling speech during his campaign launch for the upcoming November 27 general elections. Fraser, leveraging his nickname and punning on the military title of his opponent, Major St. Clair Leacock, emphasized his deep-rooted connection to the community and his professional expertise. He described himself as a problem-solver, stating, “I am somebody that people call when they want their problems fixed,” and promised a “mega solution” for Central Kingstown’s challenges. Fraser highlighted his upbringing in Kingstown, detailing his experiences in various neighborhoods and his active involvement in local football, which he believes positions him as a true representative of the constituency. He also underscored his professional background as an IT systems engineer, citing his work with Karib Cable, the Mustique Company, and Glossy Bay in Canouan, where he designed IT infrastructure for prominent buildings. Fraser’s football legacy, including his role as president of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) and his achievements with Avenues United Football Club, further solidified his reputation as a leader who delivers. He praised the ULP’s track record in Central Kingstown, citing initiatives such as low-income housing, scholarships, and support for seniors and hurricane-affected homes. Fraser concluded by emphasizing the ULP’s commitment to inclusivity and development, asserting, “We walk the walk. We are here for development, and the ULP has developed and delivered for the people of Central Kingstown.”

As St. Vincent and the Grenadines gears up for its general election on November 27, 2025, a heated exchange between Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and Opposition Leader Godwin Friday has brought the political spotlight to the island of Canouan. The dispute centers on land leases to foreign investors and the government’s handling of development projects in the region.

Prime Minister Gonsalves has publicly questioned Friday about his recent meetings with investors in Canouan, suggesting that the opposition leader is aligning himself with developers who have allegedly failed to fulfill their commitments. Gonsalves criticized the lack of progress in the northern part of the island, where two-thirds of the 1,800-acre land is leased to investors, leaving the indigenous population sandwiched in the middle. He emphasized that his Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration is committed to reclaiming land if developers do not meet their obligations.

In response, Friday defended his actions, stating that he is preparing for governance by engaging with various stakeholders, including businesspeople, farmers, and fishers. He accused Gonsalves of hypocrisy, pointing out that the ULP has leased even more land to investors than the previous New Democratic Party (NDP) government. Friday also criticized the government’s lack of action over the past decade, questioning why Gonsalves waited until now to address the issue.

The debate highlights broader concerns about economic development and land use in Canouan. Gonsalves has expressed frustration over the limited revenue generated from the leased land, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2021 volcanic eruption. He has threatened to reclaim the land if developers do not resume activity.

As the election approaches, the political rhetoric intensifies, with both leaders vying for public support. Friday, who has represented the Northern Grenadines since 2001, is making his second attempt to lead the NDP to victory after a failed bid in 2021. The outcome of the election will determine the future direction of development in Canouan and the broader interests of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The government of Trinidad and Tobago has moved to quell rising public anxiety sparked by unverified reports suggesting an imminent shift in the national and regional security landscape. In a statement released on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs clarified that the United States has dismissed claims of an impending military action in Venezuela, emphasizing that any policy announcements would come directly from President Donald Trump. Foreign Minister Sean Sobers is actively engaging with the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain, and the government has assured citizens there is no cause for concern. The U.S. Southern Command is reportedly focused on aiding Jamaica’s disaster recovery efforts, not on military operations in the region. The Trinidad and Tobago government pledged to promptly inform the public of any developments that might affect the country’s security. This statement coincides with ongoing parliamentary debates over extending the state of emergency by three months. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge declined to confirm whether the military had been placed on high alert, citing public interest concerns. Local media reports had earlier suggested that the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force was on heightened alert due to rumors of a potential U.S. military strike on Venezuela. An internal military message instructed all personnel to report to their bases by October 31, fueling widespread speculation. The U.S. has been increasing its military presence near Venezuela, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking, a claim Venezuela denies, accusing the U.S. of threatening regional peace. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto recently condemned the U.S. for its “illegal and immoral military threat” at the UN General Assembly. Meanwhile, CARICOM leaders recently convened to discuss regional security concerns, though Trinidad and Tobago did not endorse the meeting’s conclusions.