St. Vincent Votes as Gonsalves Eyes Historic Sixth Term

On March 15, 2024, voters in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will cast their ballots in a closely watched election. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves is seeking a record sixth consecutive term, facing a competitive challenge from the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). The ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) has governed since 2001, but the political landscape has shifted significantly since the last election.

In the previous election, the ULP secured nine of the 15 parliamentary seats, yet the NDP captured the popular vote. Gonsalves’ campaign has highlighted the country’s economic development, with a recent World Bank assessment predicting robust economic growth of 4% in 2025. The report noted that despite several challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating La Soufrière volcanic eruption in 2021, economic activity rebounded, buoyed by tourism and infrastructure investments.

Economic Challenges and Achievements

Gonsalves has overseen significant projects, including the construction of the country’s first international airport, which has attracted major hotel brands such as Sandals and Holiday Inn. His administration has positioned itself as a global advocate for climate justice and has prioritized education through scholarship programs that allow underprivileged students to pursue higher education.

Despite these achievements, the NDP has criticized the government for its handling of economic issues, particularly rising living costs and youth unemployment. The opposition party has pledged to create more and better-paying jobs, tackle increasing crime, and enhance healthcare and infrastructure. They also propose a citizenship-by-investment program, similar to those offered by other Caribbean nations, which would allow individuals to gain citizenship through substantial financial contributions to the economy. Currently, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the only member of the six-state Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States that does not offer such a program.

Leadership and Controversies

Adrian Fraser, a historian and former head of the University of the West Indies’ global campus, noted that some supporters are questioning Gonsalves’ long tenure, especially as he approaches 80 next year. This has sparked discussions about potential leadership change within the ULP.

The NDP, led by Godwin Friday, who has been in parliament since 2001, has focused its campaign on the government’s controversial vaccine mandate during the pandemic. This mandate required most frontline workers to receive vaccinations, leading to job losses for some. Gonsalves suffered a head injury during a protest against the mandate in 2021, highlighting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the issue.

As the election nears, questions have arisen about the NDP’s stance on foreign relations, particularly regarding close ties with Taiwan. In 2016, the NDP indicated a willingness to adopt a “one China” policy, which recognizes Beijing’s position that Taiwan is part of China. Currently, under Gonsalves’ administration, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has maintained cooperation with Taiwan in areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, resulting in several beneficial projects.

International relations lecturer Emanuel Quashie emphasized the need for the NDP to clarify its position on Taiwan, given its previous proposal to switch allegiances to China. “Switching from Taiwan to China just like that would have serious, not just political, but economic implications for SVG,” Quashie said. He highlighted concerns for students studying in Taiwan and ongoing projects funded by Taiwanese support, which include the modern hospital currently under construction.

As St. Vincent prepares for this pivotal election, the outcome could significantly impact the nation’s future direction, both domestically and in terms of international relations. Voters will weigh Gonsalves’ long-standing leadership against the NDP’s promises of change and economic revitalization.