As St. Vincent and the Grenadines edge closer to its next general elections, political tensions are rising, particularly in the Southern Grenadines. This constituency, long considered a New Democratic Party (NDP) stronghold, has become a focal point for both the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the opposition. With the ULP aiming for an unprecedented sixth consecutive term under Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, and the NDP seeking a path back to governance under Dr. Godwin Friday, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The ULP’s recent moves suggest they are actively targeting the Southern Grenadines, a constituency they have never held. At the party’s recent convention, it was confirmed that Edwin Snagg, their candidate for the past five elections, will not contest the seat again. While speculation initially surrounded Abdon Whyte as Snagg’s successor, ULP publications have recently floated Chevonne Stewart as a potential standard-bearer, noting her strong rapport with delegates in the constituency.
When contacted by ANN, about whether or not he is seeking the nod from the ULP to contest the Southern Grenadines seat Abdon Whyte said “I still have interest after I was approached by members of the constituency although not approach by any hierarchy of the party.
“ANN also contacted Chevonne Stewart and she stated ” I don’t wish to comment on those issues at this time .”
This shift reflects a calculated effort by Dr. Gonsalves and his party to make gains in a constituency where the NDP has consistently outperformed them. In the 2020 general elections, the NDP’s Terrance Olliverre secured 1,151 votes compared to the ULP’s 564. However, this 587-vote margin was narrower than in the 2015 elections, where the ULP garnered 708 votes to the NDP’s 1,12. The Southern Grenadines has 2,957 registered voters, meaning voter turnout and candidate selection could make or break the outcome in 2025.
The NDP, led by Dr. Godwin Friday, faces its own challenges. While Friday led the party to secure the majority of the popular vote in 2020, this achievement came with a reduction in the party’s parliamentary seats—from seven to six. For a party that has been in opposition since 2001, the next election represents a do-or-die moment. The Southern Grenadines, as one of the NDP’s safest seats, is integral to their chances of forming the next government.
However, dissatisfaction with the current representative, Hon. Terrance Olliverre, has opened the door to speculation about potential replacements. A resident of Union Island told ANN that while many still appreciate Olliverre’s contributions, frustrations with his representation began long before Hurricane Beryl. The storm’s aftermath has only exacerbated these concerns. According to the source, a change at this time could be strategically beneficial for the NDP, as it offers an opportunity to energize younger voters and address the growing disenchantment within Olliverre’s traditional base. The resident praised N’Kosi Stewart, a younger figure from Union Island saying he could be a viable alternative to inject fresh energy into the constituency and rally support from demographics that may otherwise disengage. Meanwhile others have mentioned the party’s current energetic Public Relations Officer, Lavern King as an option.
When asked about his intentions, and if he has indeed written to the NDP N’Kosi Stewart confirmed:When asked about his intentions and if he has indeed written to the NDP, N’Kosi Stewart confirmed, “I have written to the party and was told that there is no vacancy for the Southern Grenadines. However, what I know is that if there is interest shown by anyone, the constituency council is notified, and a run-off is scheduled.” Stewart further stated, “The move is to run independent, and I would win the seat. The people of the Southern Grenadines are fed up of hearing, ‘We are not the government, so we can’t do anything.’” Meanwhile, Lavern King told ANN: “I have not written to the party, but I have every interest in working on behalf of my party to keep this seat in the NDP’s column. The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines deserve a better government than the one they have now.”
The Southern Grenadines race highlights broader electoral dynamics in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For the ULP, this seat represents a symbolic and strategic victory in their quest for a sixth term. For the NDP, retaining the Southern Grenadines is essential to building the momentum needed to reclaim governance after nearly a quarter-century in opposition.
This contest comes amid significant recalibrations within both parties. The NDP has already introduced fresh faces in constituencies like North Leeward, Central Leeward, and South Windward, with further changes expected in West St. George and Marriaqua. For the ULP, securing a candidate who can energize their base and appeal to swing voters in the Southern Grenadines is critical.
As the political landscape takes shape, the Southern Grenadines is now a critical battleground. With 2,957 registered voters, the margin for error is slim. Both parties will need to carefully consider their strategies, messaging, and candidate selection in the months ahead. Adding to the complexity are the demographic shifts taking place in the constituency, as rebuilding efforts have drawn new residents to the islands, while several traditional supporters of the NDP have relocated from Union Island to mainland St. Vincent.
For now, all eyes are on this storied constituency. Whether it remains an NDP fortress or succumbs to the ULP’s advances will depend on the ability of either party to inspire confidence among the electorate. For the people of the Southern Grenadines, the choice will define not only their future but also the broader political landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.