标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The political landscape in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has intensified with the announcement of the general election date, set for Thursday, November 27. Opposition Leader Godwin Friday, head of the New Democratic Party (NDP), welcomed the news with a play on words, noting that the following day, Friday, holds significance both as his surname and as a potential turning point for the nation. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves during a rally for his ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) in Kingstown, where he also declared the immediate dissolution of Parliament and set November 10 as nomination day. Friday, addressing his supporters in Calliaqua, emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, framing it as a critical choice for the country’s future. He criticized the current government as ‘tired and out-of-touch,’ advocating for a shift toward economic development centered on tourism, agriculture, the blue economy, and innovation. The election comes shortly after the nation celebrated its 46th anniversary of independence, adding a layer of historical significance to the political contest. Both leaders are gearing up for a fierce campaign, with Gonsalves aiming for an unprecedented sixth term and Friday seeking to unseat him after a failed attempt in 2020.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is gearing up for a pivotal general election on November 27, as announced by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves during the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) “Labour Strong Rally” at Richmond Hill. The 15-seat Parliament was dissolved on October 28, with Nomination Day scheduled for November 10. This election marks the second time Vincentians will vote in a November general election since universal adult suffrage was introduced in 1951. The ULP, led by Gonsalves, will remain in office for three weeks beyond its five-year term, although the Constitution permits the government to stay in power until February 2026 before calling an election. Gonsalves, who has been Prime Minister since 2001, has previously announced election dates at the Richmond Hill Playing Field in 2005 and 2015. The ULP has secured five consecutive terms, with the 2020 election resulting in a 9-6 majority, despite losing the popular vote for the first time since 1998. The opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Godwin Friday, is making its second bid for power, focusing on everyday issues and promising to double public assistance payouts and reduce VAT. The election campaign has officially begun, with both parties vying for voter support. Gonsalves has pledged to transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a “first-world country of a special type” within 15 years, while the NDP emphasizes immediate improvements in public services and infrastructure. The election outcome will determine the country’s direction for the next five years and beyond.

In a spirited address to New Democratic Party (NDP) supporters in London, Opposition Leader Godwin Friday declared that political change is imminent in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Speaking at a campaign rally ahead of the anticipated general election, Friday emphasized the urgent need for a new government to address the nation’s pressing issues. ‘This is a time for change,’ he asserted, rallying his supporters to seize the moment. Friday highlighted the NDP’s five-year effort to develop comprehensive plans for national progress, pledging to honor their duty and begin governing immediately if elected. He reassured voters about the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing the secrecy of their votes and urging them to vote for change. Friday criticized the current Unity Labour Party (ULP) government for its failures, including mismanagement of crises, high unemployment, and unfulfilled promises. He accused the ULP of attempting to win votes through last-minute gestures and empty promises, calling for a break from the past and a move towards a brighter future. Friday’s message resonated with the crowd, who expressed readiness for change, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

As Saint Vincent and the Grenadines approaches a pivotal general election, Shevern John, the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for North Windward, has launched a scathing critique of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) during the NDP’s “Warm Up Rally” in London. John urged voters to reflect on the ULP’s governance over the past five years, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which led to the dismissal of hundreds of public sector workers in 2021. She emphasized that many of those affected were women, who are now struggling financially. John also condemned the government’s decision to use taxpayer funds to appeal a court ruling that initially favored public sector unions challenging the mandate. The Court of Appeal overturned the High Court’s decision, and the case may now be referred to the Privy Council, the nation’s highest court. John accused the ULP of neglecting its citizens, particularly women, and failing to deliver on its promises. She highlighted the lack of respect shown to the late Sarah Baptiste, a community hero, and criticized Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves for derogatory remarks about Vincentian women. John praised the NDP’s leadership under Godwin Friday, describing it as rooted in humility and action, and contrasted it with the ULP’s focus on legacy rather than the well-being of citizens. She called for a government that prioritizes the future over clinging to the past.