标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

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.

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.