In a heated political exchange, South Central Windward incumbent Saboto Caesar has publicly criticized his challenger, Israel Bruce, for defending individuals accused of robbing Caesar’s wife in 2018. The case, which saw the five accused men acquitted in July 2020 after Caesar’s wife, Dr. Reisha Twana Browne-Caesar, chose not to provide evidence, has become a focal point in the ongoing political campaign. Caesar, a lawyer and member of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), has raised the issue multiple times during his campaign, accusing Bruce of lacking moral principles for representing the accused. Bruce, a candidate for the New Democratic Party (NDP), countered by emphasizing the ethical duty of lawyers to represent clients regardless of personal connections, questioning Caesar’s potential influence over his wife’s decision to drop the case. The dispute has escalated, with both candidates trading barbs and questioning each other’s integrity, further polarizing the electorate in South Central Windward. The controversy also touches on broader issues of justice and crime management in St. Vincent, with Bruce criticizing the government’s handling of crime and Caesar accusing Bruce of undermining parliamentary collegiality.
标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
圣文森特和格林纳丁斯
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Still grieving — and still asking questions
For nine months, I have been grappling with the loss of my father and the circumstances surrounding his death. While death is inevitable, the manner in which it occurs is not. My father was admitted to the hospital on a Saturday night, battling diabetes, hypertension, and other complications. I was later informed that the medication he received exacerbated his kidney issues, yet I was repeatedly assured his kidney function was ‘OK.’ The ambiguity of that term remains unresolved to this day. Upon returning home on Wednesday, I immediately sought answers, consulting doctor friends and advocating for clarity. What I discovered was deeply troubling: the hospital lacked basic supplies, such as plasters and the correct glucose percentage to stabilize his blood sugar. Despite my efforts, critical procedures were delayed. My father needed an ultrasound of his heart, but the paperwork was mishandled, and the responsible doctor had left for private practice. By Thursday night, his kidneys were failing, and his creatinine levels were rising. The next morning, we were called to sign papers for dialysis, but it was too late. My father was rushed to the ICU, where I was told his kidneys were beyond recovery, and multiple organ failure had set in. I was finally given answers, but they came far too late. The pain of reliving this ordeal is immense. My father deserved better care, and so do countless others who rely on a healthcare system plagued by resource limitations and inconsistent standards. My grief continues, not only for my father but for those who lack advocates in their most vulnerable moments.
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My support for Conroy
Barrouallie, a village steeped in history and culture, stands at the precipice of a historic moment. For over five decades, Central Leeward has never elected a representative from Barrouallie to serve a full five-year term in Parliament. This 2025 election, however, presents a unique opportunity for the community to rally behind Conroy, a native son whose roots run deep in the soil of Keartons and Barrouallie.
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Dual citizenship & Parliament — what the drafters really intended
In recent weeks, St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has been embroiled in a heated debate over whether dual citizens can serve in Parliament. This discussion, fueled by challenged nominations, impending court cases, and political strategizing, has been significantly shaped by the insights of legal experts Dr. Linton Lewis and Dr. Jason Haynes, who have provided a nuanced understanding of the constitutional framework. At the heart of this debate lies Section 25 of the SVG Constitution, which outlines the qualifications for parliamentary eligibility. Notably, the Constitution does not restrict eligibility to citizens of SVG alone but extends it to Commonwealth citizens. This deliberate choice reflects the drafters’ vision of a shared Commonwealth community, where individuals from across the region could participate in each other’s democratic institutions. Section 26, which addresses disqualifications, has been interpreted by some as a barrier to dual citizens. However, a closer reading suggests that the drafters intended to allow dual citizens, particularly those with Commonwealth ties, to serve in Parliament. The Constitution’s flexibility, designed to adapt to evolving social realities, underscores its role as a ‘living instrument.’ As the nation approaches election week, this constitutional interpretation remains a pivotal issue, highlighting the balance between inclusivity and legal precision.
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Still waters run deep
The implementation of a stringent vaccine mandate in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has ignited widespread controversy, legal battles, and ethical dilemmas. Initially, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves dismissed calls for draconian measures, contrasting his approach with what he termed ‘Chinese methods’ of pandemic control. However, the eventual mandate, introduced in October 2021, imposed severe consequences on unvaccinated public officers, including job termination without compensation or reinstatement options. This policy, deemed ‘absurd’ by critics, has drawn sharp criticism for its lack of flexibility and disregard for individual circumstances, such as medical exemptions or religious beliefs. The mandate’s impact was particularly felt in the education sector, where dedicated principals and teachers, who had tirelessly served during the La Soufriere volcanic crisis, were abruptly dismissed. Legal challenges have since escalated, with the case now referred to the Privy Council for final adjudication. Critics argue that the mandate was neither necessary nor proportionate, given the country’s relatively low COVID-19 infection and mortality rates compared to regional counterparts. The government’s insistence on maintaining the policy, coupled with its refusal to compensate affected workers, has further deepened public discontent. As the debate continues, questions linger about the fairness of reinstatement offers and the broader implications for workers’ dignity and rights.
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More diversity needed in SVG’s political candidates
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.
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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.
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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.
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Kalia Wyllie awarded BOSVG Netball Scholarship
Kalia Wyllie, a standout graduate of St. Vincent Girls’ High School, has been named the 2025 recipient of the BOSVG Netball Scholarship. Wyllie, who captained her school’s championship team during the 2024 Schools’ Netball Tournament, has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership in the sport. Her achievements were further recognized at the school’s 2025 graduation ceremony, where she was honored as the Most Outstanding Netballer. Additionally, she was awarded the title of Most Promising Player at the conclusion of the 2025 BOSVG National Netball Tournament and was selected to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the 2025 Windward Island School Games. Beyond her athletic prowess, Wyllie’s academic excellence was highlighted by her outstanding performance in the CSEC examinations, showcasing her dedication and discipline. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA) expressed confidence in her ability to excel both academically and in netball. Patricia John, Marketing and Communications Manager at BOSVG, presented Wyllie with a cheque for EC$4,000 to support her college journey, emphasizing the bank’s commitment to empowering talented young women. Natasha Baptiste, President of the SVG Netball Association, praised the bank’s partnership, noting its dual focus on sporting excellence and academic advancement. Wyllie’s achievements serve as an inspiration, and she is poised to make the most of this significant opportunity.
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Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre opens in Bequia
In a landmark move for sustainable economic development, the Seamoss Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has unveiled the region’s first dedicated Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre in Bequia. Funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the centre represents a significant stride in empowering local communities and preserving cultural heritage. Shavorn Stephens, the association’s founder, hailed the opening as a historic milestone, emphasizing its role as a symbol of economic empowerment, cultural pride, and resilience within the sea moss community. The facility offers local producers a specialized retail space to showcase a diverse range of products, from raw and dried sea moss to innovative value-added items like teas, gels, and skincare products. Additionally, the centre features an interpretative section that educates visitors on the history, cultivation practices, nutritional benefits, and cultural significance of sea moss, while paying tribute to the pioneering contributions of women like Ann Bernard Harvey. Jessica Mackie, representing the Government of Canada, underscored Canada’s commitment to supporting sustainable, community-driven initiatives, while Chief Fisheries Officer Jennifer Howard-Cruickshank praised the project for its role in advancing the blue economy. The centre is poised to enhance local income opportunities, promote food security, and position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a leader in sustainable marine resource development.