标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

In the aftermath of the 2020 elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) claimed victory in the popular vote on the mainland. However, this assertion has sparked significant controversy, as the New Democratic Party (NDP) secured 32,900 votes, marking their first popular vote win since 1998. Gonsalves’ analysis has been criticized for disregarding the votes of Grenadine residents, effectively marginalizing their political voice. This approach raises questions about the inclusivity of the electoral process in SVG, a multi-island nation where all citizens, regardless of their island of residence, should hold equal political weight. Gonsalves’ rhetoric, which emphasizes the mainland’s majority while sidelining the Grenadines, has been likened to absurd hypotheticals, such as the NDP claiming victory by excluding certain constituencies. The Prime Minister’s stance contradicts his earlier campaign messaging, which lauded the citizen as the highest office in the land. This inconsistency has led to concerns about the political representation of Grenadine residents, who have historically supported the NDP. The situation worsened in July 2024, when Hurricane Beryl devastated the Grenadines. Instead of prioritizing relief efforts, the ULP was accused of exploiting the disaster for political gain. Gonsalves’ remarks at the opening of the Union Island Ferry Terminal, where he framed appliance distribution as a means to sway voter allegiance, further highlighted the transactional nature of the relationship between the government and Grenadine residents. Chevonne Stewart’s assertion that proper representation for the Southern Grenadines hinges on a cabinet seat underscores the systemic neglect faced by the region. Historical data reveals that the NDP has consistently won the Grenadine vote since 1979, with the 2020 margin being the largest in ULP’s history. This trend reflects decades of neglect by the ULP, which has failed to secure a single Grenadine seat since its inception in 1994. The upcoming 2025 election cycle presents an opportunity to address these disparities and ensure equitable representation for all Vincentians.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has expressed his desire for a seamless leadership transition within the Unity Labour Party (ULP), aiming to avoid the internal divisions that marred the party’s only previous leadership change in its 31-year history. Speaking on Boom FM, the 79-year-old leader, who has been promising a transition for 15 years, declined to name a preferred successor, emphasizing the importance of unity within the party.

As St. Vincent and the Grenadines approaches its general elections on November 27, the National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism (NMCM) has reported no significant incidents of political violence. However, minor acts of vandalism, particularly targeting campaign billboards, have been noted. The NMCM, tasked with overseeing the electoral process and monitoring the conduct of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), confirmed that no formal complaints of election-related violence have been lodged. NMCM Coordinator Godfrey E. Samuel stated that while social media has circulated allegations, no direct reports have been received. Augustine Ferdinand, representing the ULP, disclosed that several of their campaign billboards were defaced or destroyed, including one in Bequia that was set ablaze and another in Montrose that was torn down. The police are investigating these incidents. Meanwhile, Daniel Cummings, chairman of the NDP, emphasized that his party has not encountered direct violence but acknowledged a social media claim of a woman allegedly injured due to her political affiliation. Both parties recently signed the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council NMCM Code of Ethical Political Conduct for the 2025 General Election, pledging to avoid defacing public property and respecting private property rights. Cummings praised the parties for using removable campaign materials, a significant improvement from past elections. The RSVG Police Force has urged citizens to maintain peace and tolerance, promising swift and impartial investigations into any reported threats or violence.

In a landmark move to ensure the integrity of the democratic process, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has introduced a comprehensive Code of Ethical Political Conduct ahead of the 2025 General Election. The initiative, spearheaded by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council and the National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism (NMCM), aims to foster a fair, transparent, and peaceful electoral environment. The Code, endorsed by key political leaders including Prime Minister Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves and Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday, underscores the nation’s commitment to upholding democratic principles, human rights, and social justice. The document emphasizes the importance of maintaining moral integrity, promoting tolerance, and ensuring the secrecy of the ballot. It also addresses the need for candidates to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, refrain from using state resources for political gain, and discourage any form of violence or intimidation. The Code further mandates equal access to media and public venues for all political parties, ensuring a level playing field. The Christian Council and NMCM will monitor adherence to the Code, with the public encouraged to report any breaches. This initiative reflects the nation’s dedication to preserving the dignity of its democratic institutions and fostering a culture of respect and accountability in political discourse.

In a significant move towards ensuring peaceful and fair elections, the two major political parties in St. Vincent and the Grenadines—the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP)—signed a revised Code of Election Conduct on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The signing ceremony, facilitated by the National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism (NMCM), took place in Kingstown and included a key addition: guaranteed police protection for the Leader of the Opposition, a provision absent in the 2020 version of the code. Augustine Ferdinand represented the ULP, while NDP Chairman Daniel Cummings signed on behalf of his party. NMCM Coordinator Godfrey E. Samuel emphasized that the 2025 code largely mirrors its predecessor, with minor grammatical adjustments and the notable inclusion of security measures for the opposition leader. Ferdinand highlighted the importance of the agreement, linking it to the Grand Beach Accord of 2000, which aimed to resolve political unrest through early elections. Both leaders underscored their commitment to peaceful campaigning and adherence to the rule of law, with Ferdinand quoting biblical scripture to reinforce the ULP’s dedication to stability. Cummings, meanwhile, contrasted the NDP’s law-abiding approach with past ULP actions, particularly in the contentious 1998 and 2020 elections. The NMCM’s role in monitoring campaign events and addressing potential breaches was also outlined, with Samuel detailing the process for handling violations. The Christian Council’s Bishop Gerard County expressed hope for a peaceful election, urging citizens to report concerns to the NMCM’s newly opened office. As the November 27 general election approaches, the signing of the code marks a critical step in fostering a peaceful democratic process.

In a fiery campaign event in Murray’s Village, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines lambasted the policy announcements made by Opposition Leader Godwin Friday, branding them as mere ‘gimmicks.’ Gonsalves, leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), criticized Friday’s proposals, which include a 50% duty reduction on vehicles for public sector workers with a decade of service, two annual VAT-free shopping days, a $500 ‘baby bonus’ for parents, and equipment concessions for creatives. Gonsalves dismissed these ideas as impractical and poorly thought out, citing examples from other Caribbean nations where similar measures failed. He particularly ridiculed the ‘baby bonus,’ questioning its feasibility and insulting its implications for women. Gonsalves also highlighted existing government programs, such as the National Insurance Services’ maternity grant and ongoing support from the Ministry of National Mobilisation, which already provide substantial financial aid. The Prime Minister further criticized the proposed vehicle duty reduction, estimating it could cost the government EC$76 million and create administrative chaos. He accused the New Democratic Party (NDP) of desperate attempts to regain power after nearly 25 years in opposition. The ULP, seeking a historic sixth consecutive term in the upcoming November 27 general election, emphasized its focus on forward-thinking policies like e-government initiatives and infrastructure development, contrasting them with what Gonsalves called ‘damn foolish gimmicks.’

Opposition Leader Godwin Friday has pledged a significant transformation in the functioning of the public service if the New Democratic Party (NDP) secures victory in the upcoming November 27 general election. Speaking on Hot 97 FM, Friday criticized the current system, where public servants are hindered by political affiliations, stating, “Nowadays, you can’t do anything unless you know what the political affiliation is.” He emphasized the need for professionalism, urging public servants to perform their duties without partisan influence. “I want them to advise me, to advise my ministers in a professional way; not partisan,” he declared. Friday outlined four key policies, including a 50% duty reduction on vehicles for public sector employees with over a decade of service. He also stressed the importance of protecting public servants from political interference, ensuring they can operate without fear of retribution. “They don’t have to look over their shoulder,” he asserted, adding that ministers would need his approval to reassign staff. Friday highlighted the untapped potential within ministries like Agriculture, where highly skilled professionals await strategic direction. He expressed his openness to innovative ideas, stating, “No idea is off the table.” Friday, who has represented the Northern Grenadines since 2001, is making his second bid to lead the NDP to victory, following a narrow defeat in 2020 despite winning the popular vote.

As the November 27 general election in St. Vincent and the Grenadines approaches, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has called on supporters of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) to act as steadfast ‘warriors’ in the political battle. Speaking at the ULP’s Amazing Grace rally in Rabacca on Sunday, Gonsalves urged party loyalists to remain vigilant and proactive both offline and online. He emphasized the importance of defending the ULP’s legacy and countering opposition narratives, particularly on digital platforms. Gonsalves framed the ULP’s campaign as a ‘righteous struggle,’ highlighting the party’s achievements in driving national progress. He also expressed confidence in securing victory, citing the ULP’s stronghold in key constituencies and dismissing the opposition New Democratic Party’s (NDP) chances. Gonsalves accused the NDP of unethical tactics, including vandalizing ULP campaign materials and attempting to manipulate voter registration. He called on ULP supporters to protect party assets and ensure fair electoral practices. Additionally, Gonsalves criticized NDP leader Godwin Friday, labeling him as indecisive and ineffective. The Prime Minister also addressed concerns about voter intimidation and pledged to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Gonsalves concluded by urging ULP warriors to mobilize young voters and remain vigilant against any attempts to disrupt the election.