Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has described Julian Francis as the best political General Secretary the region has seen. Speaking in a brief interview with Asberth News Network (ANN), Dr. Gonsalves responded to concerns about Francis’ health and how it might impact the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) performance in the upcoming general elections.
“A 100% fit Julian is formidable,” Gonsalves stated. “He is still there with his wit, and he will be there to guide because we have other people. He can’t do the work like before—working the long hours and doing the physical work—but you don’t replace a man like Julian that easily, you know.”
Gonsalves continued to praise Francis’ contributions, describing him as “absolutely incredible” and “an excellent political organizer and manager.” He noted Francis’ past role as acting CEO of the National Commercial Bank before being dismissed by former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell.
“There has not been any mass political party in the region with political skills like Julian’s. He is an excellent organizer with multiple skills,” Gonsalves said.
In contrast, he criticized the opposition New Democratic Party’s (NDP) attempts to find a strong General Secretary since 2001.
“Look at the NDP—since 2001, they have tried several persons, from Allan Crickshank to Brenton Smith. Not one of them could come close to Julian,” he asserted. “The best person they had of substance was Jeanie Ollivierre, a good organizer. Maybe the NDP never liked strong women, just like I think they made a mistake by not choosing Louise Mitchell. But that’s not my business. I run against whoever they bring.”
When asked if the ULP was fully prepared for the elections, Gonsalves admitted that no party is ever completely ready.
“Nobody can be fully ready. You know, when you have an exam, and you get into the room, there’s always something you wish you had gone over. But we will be more prepared than the opposition,” he concluded.