标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The upcoming general election in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) on November 27, 2025, is shaping up to be a decisive moment for the nation’s political landscape. With the Unity Labour Party (ULP) aiming for an unprecedented sixth consecutive term, the stakes are high for both the ULP and the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). A senior NDP member has warned that a loss could spell the end of their party, underscoring the critical nature of this election.

As a proud member of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, I stood in my immaculate uniform, shoes gleaming under the lights, and a fresh haircut framing my confident yet anxious smile. It was the nation’s 46th anniversary, a celebration of freedom from oppression and the chains that once bound our ancestors. Yet, as I stood there, a burning question consumed me: How independent are we, truly? How free are we as a police force, compelled to stage annual spectacles for the public we serve? How free are we as a nation, waiting not for inspiration but for handouts from the Prime Minister’s “goodie bag”? And how free are we as a government that prioritizes financial aid over sustainable development, or shifts blame onto those tasked with crime prevention rather than addressing the root causes? My frustration grew as I listened to speeches masking political agendas with national pride. I was devastated, tempted to turn away from the parade entirely. My disappointment stemmed not from being overlooked by the Minister of National Security or from seeing less deserving colleagues in prominent roles. It came from the Prime Minister’s failure to address crime mismanagement, his refusal to apologize for past mistakes, and his inability to inspire unity in a politically divided nation. As a citizen and a police officer, I urge my fellow officers to cast their votes in the upcoming general election with a clear question in mind: “Am I free?” Let us vote not for personal gain but for the future of our children, our neighbors, and our nation. We are not disposable, no matter how much they make us believe otherwise.

The 2020 elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) witnessed a significant voter abstention rate, with 32,432 registered voters—33.1% of the total electorate—choosing not to participate. This alarming trend raises critical questions about the underlying causes of voter disengagement. Potential factors include an outdated voter register, socioeconomic disparities, political disillusionment, a divisive political climate, and a lack of youth participation, particularly among those from disadvantaged backgrounds. These issues, either individually or collectively, have contributed to the growing apathy toward the electoral process. For future elections, the electoral office must prioritize updating the voter register and addressing systemic barriers to participation. Additionally, fostering a more inclusive and engaging political environment is essential to encourage all Vincentians, especially the youth, to exercise their democratic rights. The article emphasizes the historical significance of voting, citing the struggles of figures like George Hamilton Charles, who championed universal suffrage in SVG. It calls on Vincentians to honor the sacrifices of past generations by actively participating in the democratic process. Voting is not just a constitutional right but a moral and civic responsibility that shapes the nation’s future. The piece concludes with a powerful reminder that every vote counts, as demonstrated by the narrow victory in North Leeward during the last election. Vincentians are urged to educate themselves on political issues, register to vote, and make their voices heard in the upcoming elections.

Grace Walters, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Windward, has passionately urged constituents to embrace the future her party promises if re-elected for a sixth consecutive term. Speaking at the ULP’s “Labour Strong” rally in Kingstown, Walters emphasized the importance of staying focused on progress and avoiding negativity. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves also announced November 27 as the date for the upcoming general election during the event. Walters, a first-time candidate, painted a vivid picture of a prosperous future, highlighting advancements in airports, ports, and healthcare services. She called on supporters to trust a leadership that delivers, cares, and protects, urging them not to gamble with their families’ futures. Walters criticized the New Democratic Party (NDP), stating that North Windward would reject them as they had in the past. She warned against experimenting with new leadership during global turmoil, emphasizing the need for experienced governance. Walters praised Gonsalves as a divinely guided leader who prioritizes national safety and development, citing the construction of a modern hospital as an example. She acknowledged delays in repairing houses damaged by natural hazards but pledged to continue the work post-election. Walters highlighted the ULP’s achievements, including the Rabacca Bridge, safer roads, and the revival of the arrowroot industry. She promised to deliver youth mentorship programs, job creation through tourism, improved housing, and an indigenous heritage center to preserve culture. Walters also vowed to expand healthcare and education access in the constituency. She faces competition from the NDP’s Shevern John, a former educator and senator, who narrowly lost the seat in 2020.

The political landscape in North Windward has become increasingly heated as Grace Walters, the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) candidate and a Hospital Administrator, clashed with her opponent, Shevern John of the New Democratic Party (NDP), over the contentious COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The mandate, implemented in 2021, led to the dismissal of hundreds of public sector workers, a decision that has become a focal point in the upcoming general elections scheduled for November 27.

In a heated exchange during the North Windward election campaign, political candidates Shevern John and Grace Walters sparred over the state of healthcare services under Walters’ administration. John, the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate, criticized the deteriorating conditions at local hospitals during the NDP’s Warm-Up Rally in London, a village in North Windward. She highlighted issues such as collapsing roofs, mould-infested walls, and inadequate facilities, accusing Walters of neglect despite her dual role as hospital administrator and Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate. John emphasized that leadership, not titles, is essential for improving healthcare and vowed to prioritize health services if elected. Walters, in her response, defended her record, stating that no one raised concerns during her leave from the hospital and that her focus has always been on community service and youth empowerment. She acknowledged the need for healthcare improvements but argued that the ULP has already initiated significant reforms, including the Strengthening Health System Resilience Project and the construction of the Acute Referral Hospital at Arnos Vale. Walters urged voters to reject the NDP, claiming their policies would reverse progress and make healthcare inaccessible. The election, set for November 27, will determine the future of North Windward’s healthcare system and political leadership.