A change of power has occurred in the Eastern Caribbean nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines after 24 years. In the initial results of the general election held on Thursday, New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Godwin Friday handed a crushing defeat to long-serving Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labour Party (ULP).
SAN JUAN: A change of power is set to take place in the Eastern Caribbean nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines after 24 years. In the initial results of the general election held on Thursday, New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Godwin Friday handed a crushing defeat to current Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves' Unity Labour Party (ULP). Out of a total of 15 seats, 14 seats went to the NDP, making a change of power in the country almost certain.
Ralph Gonsalves had been Prime Minister continuously since March 2001, making him one of the longest-serving democratic leaders in power globally. He is considered a close supporter of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Godwin Friday's Focus on Employment and Development
During his election campaign, Godwin Friday made major promises to create jobs, increase wages, strengthen security, and improve infrastructure. He engaged directly with the public through small meetings in rural areas, which rapidly increased his public support and led to a landslide victory in the election. After taking the oath, Friday stated, 'The people have sent a clear message that they want a better future for themselves. The challenges are significant, but together, we will overcome them.'
In the capital Kingstown, supporters were seen celebrating, dressed in yellow and blue. Vuvuzelas were blown, and some people fashioned coffins from Gonsalves' party posters and cast them into the sea.
Ralph Gonsalves, 24 Years in Power
Ralph Gonsalves served continuously as Prime Minister since March 2001, making him one of the world's longest-serving democratically elected leaders. He is considered a close supporter of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel. Following the defeat, his party wrote on Facebook, “We love you, SVG, and will continue to work for you. This is not an end, but a new beginning.”
Godwin Friday's NDP has consistently advocated for closer ties with China. In contrast, Gonsalves' government maintained b relations with Taiwan for a long time. Friday has indicated that his government may shift its foreign policy, emphasizing increased cooperation with China.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a population of approximately 100,000, with unemployment at 18 percent and poverty at 26 percent. The country has not fully recovered since the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano in April 2021, and tourism remains the backbone of its economy.
