Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’s recent attack on Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, appears to be a strategic move aimed at diverting Vincentians’ attention from the economic and social challenges facing the nation. The New Democratic Party (NDP) remains committed to highlighting these economic and social issues and presenting effective solutions to address the ongoing crisis confronting Vincentians.
The Prime Minister has remained notably silent regarding the escalating cost-of-living crisis, choosing not to publicly address the widespread concerns affecting Vincentians. This stands in stark contrast to his vocal criticisms of Dr. Shallow and Cricket West Indies which have garnered attention and debate. The cost-of-living crisis affects every aspect of daily life for our people, from basic necessities to essential services. The recent increase in gasoline price will further compound these hardships. Additionally, as parents prepare for the upcoming 2025–2026 academic year, they face mounting challenges in purchasing school supplies and uniforms.
The Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has failed to address the growing unemployment crisis in the country. With youth unemployment exceeding 40 percent and approximately one in five individuals unemployed or underemployed, the nation faces unprecedented economic challenges. This alarming rate of unemployment is the highest in the Eastern Caribbean, therefore highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions. Unfortunately, the ULP has yet to present a clear strategy to tackle this crisis.
Crime has been spiraling out of control in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, reaching alarming levels in recent years. 2023 was a record-breaking year of fifty-five (55) homicides. In 2024, fifty-four (54) homicides were recorded highlighting the severity of the situation. Despite widespread calls from Vincentians for the Minister of National Security to take urgent and effective action, little has been done to curb violent crime.
The economy of this country is in a precarious state; it is faced with severe challenges. We are burdened with a national debt approaching $3 billion, a debt-to-GDP ratio of 93%, indicating a high level of fiscal vulnerability. The productive sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing have experienced substantial decline, and there is little indication of sustainable growth and development on the horizon. This economic downturn threatens the wellbeing of our citizens and calls for urgent attention. Instead, the energy to fix these problems are channeled elsewhere.
Most Vincentians have grown weary of the ULP government. Conversations with ordinary Vincentians reveal a shared frustration, with many believing that only a select few benefit from the ‘gravy train’, while the majority continue to struggle. The ULP has clearly outlived its usefulness; its leadership is tired and lacks fresh ideas to address the nation’s challenges. It is evident that a change is necessary and change is coming. Vincentians are now rallying for the NDP to govern the country.
The Way Forward
The NDP has an exciting plan to transform and develop St. Vincent and the Grenadines, through the four economic pillars: agriculture, tourism, the blue economy and the new economy. Together, these pillars will drive sustainable economic growth and development, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a leading nation in the region.
Moreover, we have a stronger and more dynamic team than the ULP in the upcoming General Elections. Under the leadership of our Political Leader, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, the NDP has assembled a talented team of youth and experience. This dedicated team is committed to implementing our comprehensive development plans, aimed at transforming St Vincent and the Grenadines, restoring hope among our people, and significantly improving the quality of life for all Vincentians.
Political Leader, Honourable Dr Godwin Friday, made the following comment about his team, “We have a critical election coming and I have assembled the best team ever to form a slate to contest elections in this country. My team is a team for the times. We understand the issues affecting Vincentians; for the young people is full steam. They need a government that has their back. My team is ready to go to the polls. They are ready and eager to get to work for the people. I am eager to get to work as your Prime Minister.”
We will tackle the Cost-of-living crisis. It is causing significant financial burden on Vincentians, so the NDP has proposed a comprehensive 5-point action plan aimed at alleviating the ongoing cost of living crisis faced by Vincentians:
Our plan include:
- Reduce VAT from 16% down to 13%
- Reduce the Customs Service charge
- Increase support for lower income families
- Reduce the impact of the fuel surcharge on VINLEC bills
- Review the list of VAT items with a view to increasing the number of zero-rated items.
The NDP is committed to building a nation of opportunity and hope for all Vincentians. Central to this vision is the belief that every individual should have access to meaningful opportunities for growth and development. By focusing on creating quality jobs and better paying jobs, we aim to empower individuals and families to thrive. To achieve this, we will establish the National Jobs and Skills Agency. An agency that will act as a one stop shop for businesses seeking to expand or hire more people.
We will construct a Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Centre of Excellence, to give and expand technical training to ensure that young people have the skills needed to be employed. The jobs creation package will also include a tax support scheme for any business that hires five (5) new and additional people within a year. It will give back a portion of tax to those businesses that do so.
The NDP is ready to implement its impressive programs and policies that will transform St Vincent and the Grenadines. Vincentians should elect the NDP at the next General Elections.