“It’s time for a change in the Southern Grenadines.” That was the resounding message from ULP candidate Chevonne Stewart on Saturday as she officially unveiled her new campaign office in Union Island.
Stewart expressed gratitude to those who helped prepare the building and to residents who turned out in support. In her address, she criticized the current elected representative, saying he has repeatedly claimed, “His hands are tied.” Supporters responded, adding that he also said he would not “beg.” Stewart insisted that the people of the Southern Grenadines deserved better and that it was indeed “time for a change.”
She also rejected claims that she was absent after Hurricane Beryl, pointing out that she had contributed directly from her own personal checkbook to support Union Island. Stewart stressed that she had spent more from her personal funds than the NDP had spent on the children of the Southern Grenadines. She reminded residents that one does not need political office to make a difference, pointing to community projects she has already supported.
Stewart highlighted the ULP government’s role in post-Beryl recovery, including housing repairs, daily meals, and assistance for personal rebuilding. She stressed that all requests for help were honored, regardless of political affiliation, again telling supporters it was “time for a change.”
Turning to local development, she noted that issues raised by residents, such as the garbage dump, have already been addressed. She is now working with a contractor to bring radiography services to Union Island so residents will no longer need to travel to the mainland for basic x-rays. Stewart also said concerns about crime and stray animals were dealt with by officers she helped bring in.
On employment, she pointed to two newly appointed nursing auxiliaries at the hospital—the first for the island—along with two new teachers. The Youth Empowerment Service (YES) Programme is also expected to register eligible young people soon.
Addressing housing and land, Stewart said 21 parcels of land have been surveyed, with final decisions pending Cabinet approval. She reported that more than 27 houses are currently under repair, and that prefab housing remains part of the rebuilding effort, with the first five frames already on island.
For Mayreau, Stewart shared that residents have requested a new fish and vegetable market, which she has already raised on their behalf.
Throughout her remarks, Stewart emphasized that she is listening to the needs of residents and actively working to bring solutions. Repeatedly, she reminded them: “It’s time for a change in the Southern Grenadines.”
In closing, she drew a contrast with the opposition, saying: “The NDP now is not the NDP of Sir James Mitchell days.” She urged supporters not to be left behind but to rally for the change the constituency needs.
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