THE VINCENTIAN PDF-21-11-25

PROBE INTO THE GONSALVES’ TT PURCHASES

EVEN AS PRIME MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves indicated to both local and regional media that he was contemplating legal action against Trinidad and Tobago government minister Anil Roberts, for what he alleged was “serious breaches of privacy and politically motivated defamation,” word out of Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday, November 19, was that an internal investigation has been launched by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) into how three family members of the Gonsalves’ family obtained HDC units at Victoria Keys, in Diego Martin.

The matter of the probe and PM Gonsalves intention to bring legal action, were prompted by issues raised by Government Senator and Junior Minister in the Ministry of Sport Anil Roberts last week, in one of his ‘Double and Coffee’ (podcast) episodes.

Reeroz Khan, Chairman of the T&T Housing Development Corporation (HDC), confirmed that an investigation has been mounted into the purchase of HDC Units by the family of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ PM, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

Roberts, declared then that PM Gonsalves’ wife, Eloise, and son, Storm, had purchased HDC Victoria Keys apartments in 2018, while his daughter, Soleil, obtained an apartment under a rent-to-own arrangement with an

Left: Senator and Junior Minister Anil Roberts is not backing down from his “exposé” on the purchase of HDC units by the Gonslaves’ family, nor is he backing down from defending the United National Congress.

agreement signed on April 30, 2025–two days after the Trinidad and Tobago April 28 general election.

Roberts carried his “exposé” to the point of suggesting that the matter should engage the attention of the police.

And while Gonsalves has strongly condemned Roberts’ broadcast, which he claims not only damages his personal reputation but also violates the constitutional rights of his family members, the HDC chairman Feeroz Khan confirmed, to the Express, that “an internal investigation has been launched by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) into how three family members of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves obtained Victoria Keys

Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves might be busy with the elections campaign but he has no intention, its seems, of allowing T&T Senator Anil Roberts from getting away with what he said is defaming utterances.

apartment units in Diego Martin.”

The investigation, the Express was told, will look into alleged issues in the paperwork for the applications.

Continued on Page 3.

V News 3

Probe into the GonsalvesÊ

TT purchases

Continued from Frontpage.

The crux of the matter, according to Roberts, had to do with Eloise Gonsalves and Storm Gonsalves’ purchases of Victoria Keys apartments in 2018, and daughter, Soleil, acquiring an apartment under a rentto-own arrangement with an agreement signed on April 30, 2025–two days after the April 28 general election.

Eloise Gonsalves’ purchase amounted to TT$1,960,000.00, and Storm’s to TT$1,625,000.00.

As for Soleil, Roberts declared that on August 13, 2020, her brother Storm sent a letter to HDC managing director Brent Lyons, committing to pay her rent for the property at Victoria Keyes in the amount of $4,350 for the first five years.

On October 11, 2024, Roberts continued, “Prime Minister Gonsalves wrote to Denielle Taylor, customer sales supervisor, Republic Bank Ltd, Westmall branch, stating that he would give his daughter $7,000 monthly to facilitate payment of her mortgage for the Victoria Keyes apartment.

On April 30, 2025, the rent-to-own agreement between the HDC and Soleil Gonsalves stated that she would pay a monthly rental of $2,750 payable to the HDC on the first day of each month, Roberts said.

PM Gonsalves’

response

In an initial response to Roberts “allegations”, Prime Minister Gonsalves assured the Express that his relatives followed the process in

The younger Gonsalves, in joining with his father but not in as many words, dismissed Roberts’ allegations as politically motivated, timed just weeks before St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ general elections

applying for the HDC units; that there were no special favours or sweetheart deals; and that his wife “is Trinidadian and his children are also Trinidadian by descent.”

When prompted, Roberts all but said his exposé was in response to Gonsalves’ attack on Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, most recently for her stance in relation to the USA’s military build-up in the region.

PM Gonsalves meanwhile, having given indication of his intention to take legal action, used the occasion of one of his Unity Labour Party’s public meeting to go further, and accused the United National Congress, which currently forms the government in the twin island republic, of involving itself in the ongoing election campaign in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, towards

Marriaqua Civic Centre opened

Continued from Backpage.

Three ministries are expected to have offices at the facility. The Ministries of Mobilization, Education and Culture.

TVET classes and adult education programmes are also expected to be accommodated in the Centre.

St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, Parliamentary Representative for Marriaqua, spoke of the significance of the Marriaqua Community Centre, saying that it was a symbol of selfhelp and the spirit of the community at the time.

“It acted as an anchor and was easily the most popular meeting place in the Valley (Marriaqua), hosting all sorts of events ranging from weddings to entertainment activities, to housing students of the Emmanuelle High School Mesopotamia,” Prince recalled.

But, given its proximity to the Levi Latham Health Complex, and because it had begun to deteriorate, it had to

be replaced.

According to Prince, the new Centre was designed to withstand natural disasters and will perform duties as an emergency shelter when/if the need arises.

The Marriaqua Civic Centre was a symbol of the effort to transform and modernize the constituency, Prince said, adding, “It forms part of the infrastructure development in the Valley.”

Keisel Peters, Minister of National Mobilisation, pointed to the youth in the community now having the opportunity to participate in several programmes, including leadership training, mentorship programs, after school support, robotics clubs, literacy events and creative and cultural activities.

Schools within the community will now have a dedicated space for extra-

St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, MP for Marriaqua and Minister of Health, briefly traced the multiplicity of purposes the old Marriaua Community served, and spoke of the expanded resourcefulness of the new Centre.

curricular activities to strengthen the link between education and community life, she said.

scheduled for November 27. There has been no word on any legal action taken by either the Prime Minister or his son, Storm, in relation to Roberts “exposé” the Trinidad and Tobago acquisitions.

a November 27 general election.

Gonsalves was clear that the UNC interference, if any, was in support of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) and to support this, made reference on a subsequent occasion to UNC party functionaries coming to assist the NDP with its campaign.

But Roberts did not allow Dr. Gonsalves to rest easy on his ‘accusation’, pointing him to the fact that the only UNC member taking issue with Gonsalves was he, Roberts, and, as per a November 19 report by the Express, he dismissed Gonsalves’ claim that there were UNC supporters on the ground in St Vincent.

In related news, Storm Gonsalves, also threatened legal action against Anil Roberts over claims about his (Storm’s) purchase of an HDC apartment.

Candidates Square Off

The South Leeward constituency pits representative Nigel Stephenson of the NDP, in a showdown with new candidate Grenville Williams.

South Windward is a John parade featuring newcomers Darron John, who replaces Augustus Stephenson as the ULP candidate, and NDP’s Andrew John.

Terrance Ollivierre is the current representative in Southern Grenadines. He will do battle against Chevonne Stewart who takes up the mantle for the ULP.

Daniel Cummings holds the sway in West Kingstown for the NDP. He is facing newcomer Keisal Peters this time around.

A three-way battle for the West St. George seat features the ULP’s Curtis King -, the incumbent, Kaschaka Cupid - another first timer on the NDP ticket, and Kenna Questelles, a debutant independent candidate.

ÂBundoÊ sent for evaluation

Garfield ‘Bundo’ Steel (handcuffed), leaves the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on his way to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

MANY PEOPLEmay know Garfeild ‘Bundo’ Steele as a street character who frequents the area outside the Stoplight

Restaurant in Paul’s Avenue.

He plies the area soliciting money to support a drug habit he has been grappling with for several years.

While some of those he approaches grant his request with some change thinking he needs to buy something to eat, others curse and chase him way, and still there are others who simply ignore him.

Robert ‘Patches’ King/Knights, popular calypsonian and musician and father of ‘Bundo’, described his son as a sad case.

THE VINCENTIAN caught up with ‘Patches’ on Wednesday, just after ‘Bundo’ appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on a theft charge.

‘Bundo’, said to be in his early forties, is alleged to have stolen a door mat which was hanging on the door of Fred J. Dare’s store in Kingstown, on November 7.

He pleaded guilty, but Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie vacated the guilty plea and sent him to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre for 14 days of observation. She took this decision after ‘Bundo’ told the Court that he had a mental problem.

‘Patches’, who came to court to show support for his son, told THE VINCENTIAN, that ;Bundo’ was an outstanding junior sportsman and musician.

He once represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a junior athlete in several Caribbean countries, was a former junior table tennis champion, and played for a team called Rose Place Youths, ‘Patches’ recalled.

‘Patches’ added that ‘Bundo’ was a very good keyboardist, who played

keyboard for the local musical band ‘Perogative’, which was led by ‘Patches’ himself back in the 1980s and early 1990s.

He also lived in the United States for a while with his father, and played the keyboard with a musical band there before returning to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

According to ‘Patches’, ‘Bundo’, despite having his Green Card, left the United States and returned to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, unknown to him (‘Patches’).

While ‘Patches’ admits that ‘Bundo’ has a drug problem which may have caused his situation to deteriorate, he attributed the origin of his problems to several injuries his son suffered as a teenager, including a blow to the head from a fall, and a subsequent incident in which he was struck by a vehicle.

‘Patches’ said, that after ‘Bundo display signs of mental challenges several years ago, he voluntarily went to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre seeking help, but the institution refused to accept him at that time.

“I can’t control him. He tells me he is an adult and I can’t do anything,” ‘Patches’ told THE VINCENTIAN,

Man jailed after taking gun rap

IF YOU ASK ASHROY

PATTERSON,he is likely to say that he regretted taking the rap in a firearm and ammunition matter at the Serious Offences Court about a week ago.

On Monday, the 25-year-old Layou man was sentenced to 39 months in prison for possession of a polymer pistol and 12 months for having 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition without licenses. The sentences handed down by Chief Magistrate Colin John are to run concurrently.

Patterson was charged jointly with three Paul’s Avenue residents: Erel Hector, a 25-yearold businessman, and Dakari Hector, 21 and Sharome Dopwell, 22, both unemployed.

When the men initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court a week ago, Patterson pleaded guilty to both charges, while the three others maintained their innocence.

Patterson was remanded for sentencing, while the others were remanded for bail review.

On their return to Court on Monday, Prosecutor Renrick Cato informed the Court that the Prosecution was accepting Patterson’s guilty pleas, but made an application under Section 68 of

the Criminal Procedure Code, for the charges against the others to be withdrawn.

Shortly after the sentences were handed down on Patterson on Monday, he hugged his mother and bawled like a baby saying repeatedly, “The gun ain’t mine.”

The facts showed that at around 11am on November 7, police were on mobile patrol at Sion Hill, when they received information about a white Toyota Vitz, RL666.

Acting on information, they journeyed to Walvaroo where they met the vehicle and signaled it to stop.

The driver complied and the officers exited the police transport, identified themselves as police officers and requested a search, to which the men consented.

Nothing illegal was found on their persons, but during a search of the vehicle, a black firearm without a magazine was found.

The defendants all denied knowledge of the gun.

They were arrested on suspicion and take to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where a thorough search was conducted on the vehicle, during which a

Ashroy Patterson is now having second thoughts about his initial response to gun and ammo possession charges.

magazine containing ammunition was found.

The men were cautioned and denied knowledge of the ammunition. The bullets were counted in their presence and amounted to 30 rounds.

In mitigation on Monday, Patterson’s lawyer, Grant Connell, noted that Patterson had no previous convictions and was remorseful for his actions. He stressed his client’s youthfulness as well as his early guilty plea.

admitting, “He is my son. I feel sad about it, but I can’t give him the professional help that he needs.”

‘Bundo’ could be a nuisance as he traverses the streets of Kingstown, but he is not known to be aggressive or violent.

He will return to Court from the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre in early December, when an evaluation of his mental health prepared by that institution will determine whether he is fit to plead.

23-year-old fined

KAFELE ANDREWS, a 23-yea- old farmer of Richmond Hill/Sion Hill, was fined a total of $8,500 on Monday, for the possession and trafficking of marijuana, at Troumaca beach on November 5.

Andrews was fined $5,000 for possession of 216 pounds of marijuana for the purpose of drug trafficking. He was ordered to pay the fine in four months, or go to prison for nine months. He was also fined $3,000 to be paid in four months or nine months; for possession of that amount with intent to supply.

Additionally, Andrews was fined $500 to be paid in one month or three months in prison for possession of five pounds of marijuana for the purpose of drug trafficking and $400 in one month or three months in prison for possession with intent to supply.

He was reprimanded and discharged for possession of 333 grams of the herb with intent to supply.

Andrews was charged jointly with Ronald Audain, a 23-year-old mason of Arnos Vale, and Safari Jack, a 23-year-old unemployed man of Petit Bordel. They were represented by attorney Grant Connell.

On their initial appearance at the Serious Offence Court last week, Andrews pleaded guilty to all charges and was remanded for sentencing, The others pleaded not guilty and the prosecution withdrew the charges against them.

The facts showed that around 10:20 p.m. on November 15, members of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), acting on information received, left for the Troumaca area, in search of a white car suspected of carrying controlled drugs, firearms and ammunition.

On arrival at Coulls Hill, looking down from Troumaca, the officers observed a white car travelling from Chateaubelair to Coulls Hill which, upon reaching Troumaca, turned right and headed to the beach area.

When the officers arrived at Troumaca Bay, a white car, RZ865, was met, and was the only vehicle there.

Two men remained seated in the vehicle, while another jumped into the sea. The police intercepted the vehicle along with the men and requested a search to which they consented. Nothing illegal was found on them or the vehicle, but during a search conducted on the beach in the presence of the men, the police found a quantity of plastic bags and taped packages not too far from a shed. They were opened their presence, and found to contain marijuana.

When cautioned, Andrews told the officers “I went to buy some weed from two guys and they told me if I help them move this weed from the beach, they will give me an extra five pounds. Andrews had a card in his possession, saying that he was employed at a Marriaqua farm, but he was not the holder of a cultivator’s license. He had no previous convictions.

Former ULP Minister declares,

„I

WILL NOT VOTE!‰

member opposing family member. The working class is gambling that benefits will accrue to it, whichever party wins. Truth be told, both the ULP and NDP will offer some benefits. But, they are capitalist parties with a definite commitment to the capitalist class local and foreign, and as such those benefits are circumscribed.

(Editor’s Note: In his own words.)

THE VINCENTIAN WORKING CLASS faces the November 27th elections divided in its support of the political parties – coworker against co-worker, family

In opposition, the Unity Labour Party, pre-2001, took a pro-working-class stance, largely due to the impact of the Movement for National Unity (left of centre) in the 1994 merger with the St. Vincent Labour Party with its right-wing outlook. While in government, the ULP moved right of centre on the ideological spectrum, right into the arms of multinationals, including hotels.

The New Democratic Party was launched on December 3rd, 1975, at the Market Square, Kingstown, the same

day that the St. Vincent Union of Teachers ended its strike and our heroic teachers returned to the classroom. In the 12 months prior to the launch, when Milton Cato and the Labour Party were brutalizing Vincentians, James Mitchell, leader of the newly launched New Democratic Party, was missing in action. I had met him on Back Street months earlier and asked him why was he not defending Vincentians against Cato’s brutality. His reply: “Ah writing.” Yet he opportunistically launched his party on the courage and sacrifice of our heroic teachers. The NDP from birth, was a capitalist party — with liberal leanings. When I deliver the feature address at the Teachers’ Union rally marking the 50th anniversary — to the day — of the 1975 strike, I will expand more on this.

Objectively, it matters little to the working class which party wins.

“Dis ya meat hard fo boil”, will continue to define its

life. The ULP has dealt the working class serious bodyblows: high levels of poverty, of unemployment and underemployment, the wide gap between wages and survival, the draconian vaccine mandate, the refusal to negotiate a new collective agreement with the Teachers’ Union (after I spearheaded the 2005 one), neglect by parliamentary representatives, etc. Older persons will, of course, remember NDP’s mismanagement of our nation including poor health services, extremely high levels of illiteracy, dilapidated roads, very unreliable electricity and water services, and difficulties in obtaining salaries, to mention some.

Sadly, our working people will continue to be used as voting pawns in these elections where their influence is limited. Campaigns cost tens of millions of dollars. Where is that money coming from? Not from working people who “ketching dey tail” trying to buy food and for whom sickness can be a death

sentence. From the rich who have the money and influence, and they will call the shots after.

In the current circumstances, I will join thousands of Vincentians in not voting, disillusioned. I had always voted for the ULP, never the NDP given the ideological chasm that exists between us. Clearly then, what matters is not the election results but the postNovember 27th national direction. What our people and country need is a change of system, regardless of who is in power. This will put ordinary people in charge of their own lives and destinies which must be based on their fundamental rights.

In this regard, our organization, SOLIDARITY RIGHTS, has produced a TOP TEN VINCY RIGHTS list which hopefully will illumine the manifestoes of political parties:

1. HEALTH

The right to free top-quality healthcare.

2. NEIGHBOURHOOD

The right to a safe neighbourhood.

3. SECURITY

The right to a secure society.

4. EDUCATION

The right to free topquality education.

5. WORK

The right to decent work.

6. UNION

The right to join a trade union.

7. ASSOCIATION

The right to associate with any person or group.

8. IDEAS

The right to hold and communicate ideas and beliefs.

9. HOUSING

The right to land and housing.

10. PRIVACY

The right to privacy of thoughts and home.

Mike Browne 498-5298

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Illicit wealth and influenceCompetence and vision

IF WE ARE TO JUDGEfrom the myriad of issues that decorate the current general elections season, this country is at a juncture in its development when it demands far more vigilance than ever before, from certain sections of society and traditional institutions.

Unfortunately, those sections of society and institutions seem to be moving in the opposite direction.

At a time when allegations fly willy nilly across local political parties, so much so one would swear they were oblivious to the fact that after all is said and done, we all have to live in the same space.

And at a time when our country has become embroiled in a cross-border spat that threatens to not just sour relations between two CARICOM partners but that could well swell so as to disturb whatever equilibrium there might have been in that Caribbean bloc; and at a time when allegations of sources of campaign finance, allegations of money laundering and transnational criminal influence are drawing scrutiny, one would expect our democratic guardrails–including the press –to strengthen their resolve.

Instead, whether because of an inherent fear of reprisals, what we are witnessing is a concerning erosion of critical distance, allowing those from outside to seemingly interfere in our business.

The danger is that when the press, the churches, the Bar Association and other professional organisations, and social and political commentators drift away from being impartial voices, an air of democratic hazard is created.

Without the vigilance by ‘independent parties’, the likelihood is that what would morph is a permissive environment for those who benefit from confusion, ambiguity, and glamorised misinformation.

Lest we are ignorant of the repercussions, this type of environment breeds illicit wealth and influence that do not merely raise their heads above water temporarily, but are apt to thrive, once unnoticed and not ruffled.

And while we will look to the press (not recognizing the restricted environment in which it operates) and the traditional institutions to be vigilant on our behalf, it is, fundamentally speaking, the responsibility of each and every citizen of this country, to be our own guardrails against illicit wealth, corruption, money laundering and serious and petty crime.

Always, the effort by concerned parties to ensure vigilance that

Election promises

safeguards the interest and well-being of all, are undermined when others (and other outlets) choose spectacle over scrutiny or access to power over accountability.

Competence and vision

The challenge of an opposition leader is to keep his/her party united, and ready to govern in the event that the government loses public favour. The opposition needs to be a ready alternative government.

Voters evaluate governments on the basis of what they’ve done, and on what they promise to do next.

If the truth be told, opposition parties start on the back foot, as governments have greater public visibility and can use public money, services and resources to ingratiate themselves with voters.

Further, the opposition is always against it in the elected House of Representatives because they are the minority, and for that reason they do not as a natural occurrence excite the public’s confidence. And on the basis of what transpires in the House of Representatives, the opposition seems always to have little impact on national issues/plans and will be made to appear ineffective if not ineffectual.

Inevitably though, the government’s mistakes start to pile up. That’s when an opposition needs to be in a credible position to persuade swinging voters that they are a better option than the government.

To position themselves thus, the opposition has to establish competence, offer an alternative vision of government, and survive the next elections campaign.

The question will arise: Does the opposition offer the best example of a leadership successfully balancing competence with vision?

The opposition has been on that side for the last 24 years or so. It lost an “unloseable” election in 2020, and survived a period of unpopular leadership style.

Those 24 years should produce a leadership that is legitimately ambitious, electorally strategic, and politically styled differently from the incumbent.

There are many issues on which all voters generally agree: everyone want good quality education, affordable healthcare, a safe and secured society for instance.

Parties can differentiate themselves on their ability to tackle these issues, or they can propose an alternative vision.

ELECTION SEASONusually ignites a wave of unrealistic promises that seem almost miraculous. This year is no different. The campaign trail brings out the worst in our politicians as they strive to reach every village and town in four weeks. In their effort to convey a message, they shorten it to such a ridiculous extent that they sound incoherent and void of any substance. This is mainly a result of them trying to cram four years’ worth of opportunity into four weeks.

The campaign speeches seem to suggest that these candidates all think they are here to rescue us. They dare to pledge to transform our lives and usher in prosperity once you cast your votes. Each candidate promises to bring abundant local development to their constituency. These promises are being made while completely ignoring the reality of our form of government and the platform of their political party. Their captivating conversation draws us in–yet it bears a hidden danger. Cleverly, they convince us to hand over control of our livers to them. This mindset fuels a dangerous reliance on external saviors, trapping us in a relentless cycle of poverty–a victim mentality, awaiting rescue, where we are asked to wait for a hero.

It shifts responsibility into dependency, promises into expectations, and capable people into lazy prayers. After the election, we recoil into a period of inactivity masquerading as hope–until we wake up to realize five years have passed us by. The result? The power we thought we had, disappeared while we were waiting for help.

Now is the time to be reminded of some fundamental truths, not lest being no local leader, government, pastor, partner, political party, or foreign country will save us. Waiting around for a savior is a skillfully designed trap that keeps us stuck in poverty.

So, what should we be listening to this campaign season? Focus on track records, not promises. When evaluating leaders, look at what they have actually achieved–what they have delivered–rather than what they claim they will do. Our system is designed to enable every elected official to demonstrate integrity, accountability, and responsibility. Question those in office, ULP, and NDP: why haven’t they taken action yet? Their past actions reveal their true character. Budget plans matter more than catchy slogans: any serious proposal must include clear costs, funding sources, timelines, and

measurable results. If it’s not simple enough to review and verify on one page, one tweet, or one three-minute Facebook reel, then it’s just marketing hype–nothing more, nothing less. Stay alert. Stay informed. Demand the truth and results.

I know some of you want me to discuss the current promises being made by the two leading political parties, but I will not since, there is nothing good to say. Instead, I ask you to consider: How do these promised policies improve your family’s ability to produce, own, and invest? If the answer is a payout without a clear path to improving productivity, it’s not actual development. I urge you to prioritize initiatives that keep money circulating within the local community. This includes training that leads to employment opportunities favoring local entrepreneurs, performance-based incentives, and ownership structures that enable citizens to share in the wealth generated.

What are the candidates offering in terms of government system improvement? What proposed changes aim to make bidding on government projects more transparent? How can we simplify the bidding process to encourage small businesses to participate in government projects? Too many of our small businesses do not even consider government contracts a viable option. One way to build confidence among our small businesses is to ensure independent audits, promote open data by default, and create online citizen dashboards to track where funds are spent.

We must be willing to trade political loyalty and dependency for meaningful institutional change. Politicians need to show they are eager to listen to what’s best for our families. Candidates who respect us will treat you as a partner rather than a dependent. As they propose more giveaways that won’t improve our nation’s productivity, they must answer the questions: where will the money come from, and what services will be cut to fund these one-time benefits?

It’s time we became a nation of builders. A nation of builders doesn’t wait for permission; it organizes, sets clear expectations, and takes action. Hold every candidate–whether they are incumbents or aspiring leaders, from the governing party or opposition–accountable to this standard.

Horatio.

Grafton Ivan Stephenson (1936-2025)

GRAFTON I. STEPHENSON, popularly known as “Tall Boy” or “Mutt”, was born in Kingstown and grew up in Paul’s Avenue, where he became an iconic figure as a lifelong resident of that community.

As a young man, he participated fully in various activities for which the neighborhood was well known, including sports, Carnival, and other cultural pursuits. He was a towering presence in the defense of the Paul’s Avenue Youth Football Team, the local sports club.

PapaÊs Escape Plan

Vote for Change

In examining the current situation where we find ourselves, we are not satisfied with where we are heading, so change is inevitable.

A visionary businessman and entrepreneur, he was a champion of selfreliance, realistic goal setting, laser focus and sheer hard work. In this regard, he was joined by his loving wife and business partner, Gloria, who predeceased him in 2002. Together, they built a secure and thriving enterprise, located in the heart of the bustling part of the capital. Throughout their lives, and enhanced circumstances, the Paul’s Lot’ compound remained the family seat and nerve centre to the end. It was ‘Home Sweet Home’.

Grafton Stevenson is survived by his daughter Gailene Stevenson-Conliffe and husband Ronald and their sons Ronald and Rodman, great grands Cayden and Riley Conliffe; son Marlon Stevenson, his wife Nicole and daughter Naailah Stevenson. Ambassador Kingsley Layne

CONSIDERING THE EXPECTED massive loss of the ULP in the upcoming SVG general elections, plans are apparently well advanced for Papa and his family to escape to Trinidad. It is reported that homes were secured for his wife and children there.

He knows that he must go this time. All the signs and signals so declare. Hurricanes, floods and volcanic eruptions did no t seem to convey the information well, so a unique earthquake that shook only his office occurred.

Papa was not fazed by rejection by most Vincent ians in the 2020 elections. Most octogenarians operate on a need basis. They do volunteer work if they feel like it but are

not committed to meetin g the demanding needs of others. The work of running a country is very demanding. Any grouping with an aged leader without a succession plan has a good reason to grumble. When his party loses on November 27th, 2025, he must accept full responsibility and blame.

With so many signs of bankruptcy in the country as evidenced by the disrepair everywhere, there are bleak prospects for the future under his leadership. So, rejected by his own people in and out of his party at home, and with growing resentment in Trinidad, will Papa consider Cuba, Venezuela or Russia as a place of refuge?

Everyone wants better for out home, church, school, organization, village and country. But we must take decisive action otherwise we would remain in our current quagmire.

Our homes can be more organized, kept clean, children more disciplined, and our family better fed with a little planning and cooperation from all.

The church can play a better role in instilling moral values and saving us from the vices of society. Our relationship with each other and the community should result in us playing our role in making our society work.

Our schools must teach our values and transmit our culture to the next generation. They must teach us how to live and how to make a living.

Sports clubs, Youth clubs, Scouts, Cadets, Pathfinders, Adventurers, and Music bands all help to shape

USA, China in our midst

WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING at the political development from Joshua to

Reacting to “Too Much Noise”

MR. EDITOR,allow me just a little space to react to a letter in last week’s (Nov. 14) edition of your newspaper. The letter that tweaked my nerve was one captioned, “Too Much Noise”.

It seems to me that the runway, or part of it, at the old E, T. Joshua Airport is now the number one venue for these modern day fetes, that blast music at levels I would not have imagined a few years ago.

I have no doubt that promoters of these fetes and what have you have made profits at the expense of the peace and quiet of people living near this venue. People have been left without sleep and while I have no proof of it, I wouldn’t doubt that walls in some of the nearby homes have vibrating to vibrate with the

level of sound that comes from those music boxes.

Why is it, Mr. Editor, that we behave as if entertainment is all about suffering? I wonder how many of the people attending these fetes release the damage they could be doing to their hearing, and not to mention what people in the area have to endure.

As far as I am concerned, nobody has the right to bring harm and disquiet to a community saying that what they are doing is providing entertainment.

I wonder, Mr. Editor, whether we will ever find a balance between entertainment (enjoyment) and respect for others.

Charles, Edinboro

Gonsalves. The question abounds: Is Dr. Gonsalves going to be returned as Prime Minister?

As a child of the Most High I can make predictions. Come Nov. 29, 2025, Friday will be sworn in as PM and Major Leacock as Minister of National Security. Friday, 2nd November will be declared a holiday; the Sunday that follows, a Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving; on Monday all Vaccine Mandate victims return to work.

As the new government settles in, there will be a review of our foreign relations, especially as it relates to Taiwan. But even if we switch relations to China, we must be mindful of what is threatened to the Caribbean.

The USA has its agenda as it relates to Venezuela and the USA

our characters and deserve some of our time.

Attention to the aesthetics of our surroundings, ensuring that our recreation sites function and being neighborly all help our village to function as a unit.

Choosing our leaders wisely, holding them accountable and changing them regularly will make for better governance. Integrity in office is our responsibility. We must ensure that fairness and meritocracy prevail. These are not optional but obligatory.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

military build-up in the Caribbean tells it all: its presence in the Caribbean. Guyana and Trinidad might be in the hands of the USA but for the rest in the region, including our country, even if we switch to China, must be made clear to all that the Caribbean id a Zone of Peace and must remain so.

We thank China and Russia for their support to Venezuela. We are not in support of Venezuela over Trinidad and Guyana, and we never will be. We are in support of the Caribbean remaining a Zone of Peace. We will not allow China, American or Russia to control the region.

And we must see the difference between America and China. America moves into our region to deal with drug dealers, as a cover for invading Venezuela. The USA military is

destroying human lives at sea. To deal with crime and criminals you need to capture the criminals alive, investigate the crime from the origin to the end port and dealers on the other end.

The Chinese are different. They will come and teach you how to build roads that will last for hundreds of years. They will build farm roads to enable more farmland and homes. I am seeing a new beginning with the new government working on the total development of humanity, if only this new government will allow the Spirit of our Creator and his servants to guide us.

Lest we forget, be reminded that God sets up government and brings them down, no matter how strong they are.

The Vision of Transformation

[Excerpt from the ULP 2025 Manifesto] Transforming Today, Securing Tomorrow

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTYcontinues to lead the transformation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

In previous terms, we laid the foundation for lasting, sustainable growth and development–investing heavily in education, healthcare, housing, infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, human development, and social advancement.

Now, we are ready to build upon that strong foundation and propel our nation into the upper ranks of global development. We are focused, ambitious, and unwavering in our mission: to make Saint Vincent and the Grenadines a First World Nation by 2040.

The Foundations of Our Vision

Unlike others who shift with the wind, chasing headlines without purpose or coherence, the Unity Labour Party is anchored in clear principles and guided by a bold, consistent philosophy. These values shape how we see the world and drive how we lead and serve our people.

Our vision rests on ten foundational pillars:

* A People-Centred Vision

* The Philosophy of Social Democracy

* Our Caribbean Civilisation

* Good Governance

* A Sound Economic Approach

* The Quest to Build a Modern, Competitive, Many-Sided PostColonial Economy

* Central Economic Outcomes

* The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

* A Mature Regionalism

* An Effective and Independent Foreign Policy

At the heart of these is our peoplecentred vision–putting Vincentians first in every decision. We assess every challenge through the lens of how it affects our people. We act not in the interest of elites, external forces, or personal ambition, but in steadfast service to the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines–always.

Our social democratic philosophy reflects our commitment to democracy, free institutions, social justice, and equality before the law. We believe that human dignity demands respect for privacy, family life, and property; fair economic rewards for honest labour; a strong safety net for the vulnerable; and a society rooted in peace and security.

These values are not temporary slogans. They are embedded in our political DNA. We know who we are in the Unity Labour Party:

• We are champions of social justice.

• We are determined to end poverty and expand opportunity.

• We are strong regionalists and avowed anti-imperialists.

• We believe the voice of the people is politically sacred.

• We are committed stewards of our environment.

• We know that the State, properly led, is a powerful force for good and national development.

Our opponents, by contrast, are adrift. They do not know who they are–so the people cannot know what they stand for. They say, “Elect us, and you will see.” We say, “You know who we are. Re-elect us to continue the work we’ve begun.”

The Next Steps In Fulfilling The Vision

Our people-centred approach has brought real results, lifting Saint Vincent and the Grenadines higher with each step–through better education, stronger housing, improved connectivity, increased tourism, land reform, worker protections, disaster resilience, agricultural diversification, and social upliftment.

In our next term, we will deepen this work with renewed focus. The next phase of our journey is driven by a clear objective: To elevate Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to First World status by transforming our economy, our people, and our future–through growth, health, resilience, equality, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

To achieve this, we will continue even more to:

* Grow the economy sustainably and inclusively

* Improve healthcare outcomes across the country

* Strengthen our resilience to climate change and global shocks

* Eliminate systemic inequality

* Remove the barriers that affect upward mobility and personal progress

* Life human and social development

Our mission is to create opportunities for every Vincentian to shape and own the future they dream of.

Accelerating Transformation

Transformation is not a slow, meandering process. It is focused, strategic, and results-driven. The Unity Labour Party is not content with business as usual. We are eager always for bold change and impatient for meaningful results that benefit the people. We are the party of ideas and action; we are the party always to lift SVG higher, together.

That is why, in our next term, we will accelerate the transformation already underway–building a modern, resilient, and equitable Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Labour is working to transform today and secure tomorrow–for all Vincentians. Continued on Page 17.

NDP has a plan for brighter future

for SVG

(Excerpts of Political Leader of the NDP, Dr Godwin Friday’s Presentation at the Rally in North Leeward)

WE HAVE A PLAN for a brighter future for this blessed land of ours. The ULP has broken the trust because they have broken their promises.

They have left so far, a country where there is more poverty, more people are poor now than there were ten years ago; more young people are unemployed and feeling a sense of hopelessness than ten years ago; crime is out of control; the physical infrastructure, the roads, the bridges, the jetties, the public buildings, the schools are run down. They look as if they are abandoned. At the same time, the ULP politicians, they drive around in the fancy cars and building mansions.

So, they have failed the people, after five years, plus all the terms they’ve had before. They come now seeking to reinvent themselves, to say that somehow this time is going to be different. When they listen to themselves and they understand, this doesn’t even sound true to me; it sounds false in my own ears, they go back to the old playbook and they start ‘cussing’ everybody on stage here.

I did not come to this to cause anybody pain, not even my opponents. I came to this because of you. I want to see a better life for all of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. You have heard us say about our policies to do things different. Immediately when we form government because I know the hardship that the people are feeling throughout this country. This is not a joke. This is not something to get up on stage and make yourself look foolish as they have done on the other side trying to rubbish our policies. They cannot because we have listened to the people.

I go out all over this country and my colleagues do likewise. And these are the things that people tell us. We see with our own eyes the conditions under which our people in this day and age live; it breaks my heart. So, we have come up with some plans, immediately within 60 days, the first 60 days of my administration, there is going to be relief for the people of this country. We are going to cut the VAT from 16% to 13%, that measure will put money in everybody’s pockets. We will pay salary bonuses to all public servants; that measure will put money in people’s pockets. We will double the poor relief for the most vulnerable people in our community; that measure will put money in people’s pockets. And for all those people who have been victimized and penalized unjustly under the wicked vaccine mandate of this government, they will be reinstated with their benefits intact. That also will put money back in those people’s pockets.

For public servants, we know you are working hard and it’s still difficult to get a head start. We have

said for public servants who have worked for ten years or more, we will offer a concession of up to 50% off the duties for the purchase of a vehicle for personal use. That will put money in your pocket. For the young creatives, many of you in the audience who have ideas to do things, things that require you to be able to be paid overseas, we are going to open up these e-commerce gateways so that you can get paid using your skill to create content but having markets that are unlimited all over the world so you can get paid through PayPal and other services. That will put money in your pockets.

For the young people who have ideas: you know young people are the future of the country. They say it but they don’t really believe it. We do. We are going to establish an innovation hub. You have a good idea, you have an institution you could go to with capable people who can help you to nurture it, to build it and to make it something profitable for you and for our beautiful country, creating jobs. That also will put money in your pockets.

There are many more exciting ideas. You have heard them before and soon you will see them in our manifesto. We will summarize and put them all together so you will have them as a record. We have that for you, and you will be able to refer to it as you go along. The fellows who are here now, they have been copying our ideas because, quite frankly, as my colleague said, they are tired, they are out of touch, they don’t know what appeals to the people anymore. I say that we will pay a baby bonus of $500.00 on the birth of a newborn child to give our new citizens a head start in life, something to make things a little easier. They try to rubbish it and they ridicule it in their own most disgusting and curse language that I will not repeat on this stage. But you know that it benefits you and that we have you at heart.

The last time I was on this field with Dr. Shallow and Shevern John, both of our representatives in this northern part of the country, we announced that we in the New Democratic Party, see the northern part of the country as a place of potential, not a place of ‘left behind’. We see it as a place where the people deserve the same attention and opportunities as anywhere in the country.

There was a time in the NDP when they brought running water above the dry river; when they brought electricity and the other party said it couldn’t be done, the NDP did it, because we saw the opportunity and the possibilities. Well now we are saying, for the future, we have a special development plan for the northern part of this country.

Hope, Change, and Progress: The Interconnected Forces Shaping Our Future

“Hope is not a guarantee for tomorrow, but a conviction that something better is possible.” — Barack Obama (born 1961) –44th President of the United States of America (2009-2017).

USA’S PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE in the 2009 general elections, Barack Obama, campaigned of the need for hope, change, and progress. He knew that these are three strong forces that direct the course of human lives and society. While these forces are diverse, they are innately linked and have the potential to energize individuals and communities. Each variable has the capacity to propel the others in an endless cycle of growth and transformation. Hope triggers the desire for positive change, while change provides the momentum through which the individual or group can accomplish the desirable progress, often making the impossible possible. Progress, whether observed on the individual or communal level, endorses hope and magnifies the power of positive change to bring about desirable transformation. Jointly, these three forces provide an impressive and empowering vision for the future. This holds true whether challenged by adversities, detours, distractions, disappointments, failures, or the need for renewal or regrowth.

Hope is not synonymous with wishful thinking. It is more focused or intentional than that. It is frequently described as the belief in a positive outcome regardless of the present challenges or difficulties that may appear to hinder growth and development. It is a commitment by individuals and communities to face adversity with determination and perseverance; it is a driving force that energizes individuals even when situations may appear fraught with challenges and daunting uncertainties. Hope provides that priceless impetus to dismantle the tendency to wallow in selfpity and self-doubt when faced with life’s challenges and adversities. Individuals who embrace hope readily discover that they can proactively advance causes for improvement on a personal and societal level.

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821), the accomplished French General and Emperor, noted that “A leader is a dealer in hope.” He championed many military causes that had initially appeared to be unsurmountable by rallying his forces to retain hope even amidst the challenges presented by opposing forces and, on occasions, the extreme weather.

History presents numerous other instances in which the retention of hope played a major role in catalyzing change. In times of personal struggle, political upheaval, periods of injustice, and political unrest, hope has contributed significantly to the strengthening of resolve and the retention of purpose.

Individuals like St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ paramount Carib chief Joseph Chatoyer, the Garifuna (Black Carin) chief and a national hero of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, is known to have rallied his forces as he led a major resistance movement against British colonial rule during the Second Carib War (1895-1797). He inspired hope even though their band of poorly armed warriors confronted an army that was much better trained and armed. Joan of Arc (1412-1431), Harriet Tubman (18221913), Mohandas ‘Mahatma’ Gandhi (1869-1948), Nelson Mandela (19182013), and Martin Luther King Jr. (19291968) harnessed the power of hope to

inspire positive changes in and beyond their respective communities. They inspired others to believe that a better world was possible, even when the forces against them appeared to be insurmountable and their plight seemed overwhelming.

Change is the method by which hope is converted into reality. It requires a strong resolve to pursue the noble purpose if it is to be achieved. The Greek philosopher Socrates (470 - 399 BCE) said it well when he noted that, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy, not on fighting the old, but on creating the new.” Jillian Michaels (born 1974), the well-known American fitness expert, personal trainer, author, and television personality reminds us that positive change is not always easy but can occur when there is a constant focus and a commitment to its pursuit.

Change often demands sacrifices, hard work, and a commitment to embrace uncertainty. It must also be realized that it does not follow a linear path and therefore requires the pursuers to be flexible and visionary. Change often challenges the status quo and can be nerve-racking. It is not for the timid or faint-hearted. However, it is often through sacrifice, pain, and discomfort that true and lasting transformation ensues. Martin Luther King Jr., as he rallied his supporters during the American civil rights movement, reminded them that, “Change does not roll out on wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so, we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom. A man can’t ride you unless your back is bent.”

Change can take many forms. On a personal level, individuals may be required to engage in small personal alterations in attitude and/or behaviour. Change may also be required on a much larger scale as is the case when companies, governments, and nongovernment organisations are required to adjust their systems, structures, procedures, and policies as a result of evolving technologies such as the internet and artificial intelligence. These have significantly impacted the way business is done and will continue to demand that leaders, managers, and followers approach tasks differently or run the risk of becoming obsolete. Progress is possible when hope and change co-exist in harmony. Unison aids in improving the quality of life, the growth of human potential, and the advancement of knowledge. Progress may be demonstrated in the form of individual achievements, social reforms, and scientific discoveries, but it is always fueled by the conviction that things can be better; as good as we are, we can do better. It gives meaning to sufferings and sacrifices endured along the way. It is the validation that hope and change, though often challenging, lead to something greater and endorses the fact that hope, change, and progress are the cornerstones of human advancement.

Closing Argument: Labour is not working

IN 1978,the Conservative Party in the UK, led by Margaret Thatcher, launched an advertising campaign, ‘Labour is Not Working’, against James Callaghan’s Labour Party in anticipation of the 1979 general election, highlighting the inefficiencies of the Labour government. Five decades later, Gonsalves’ Unity Labour Party warmed over the slogan with a twist, claiming, ‘Labour is working for all ah We.’

The poor and vulnerable sections of our population to whom the slogan is directed must reject it for the most basic of reasons. It is not true. It is a big lie intended to hoodwink them into voting for a party that has long dropped all pretence of working in poor people’s interest. The mad scramble over the last 9 to 12 months to fix roads, clinics, and schools, and to give away chickens, eyes, plantains, and money, is a desperate attempt to win favours, and buy votes as the general election draws near.

Twenty-four years after PM Gonsalves assumed office, the people, on whose backs and votes he victoriously stormed into power, have little or nothing to show. Their lives have not materially improved since reelected on November 5, 2020. An increasing number of them have been pauperised, as the leaked and abandoned 2019 poverty assessment disclosed. Four out of every 10 Vincentians live in poverty. Unemployment, especially among the youth, is very high; and crime, especially homicides, continue to bring pain and grief to families who can least afford to bear the burden. Police, nurses, teachers, doctors and other public employees toil under the most horrendous conditions.

Homelessness, begging among the young and old and drug addiction have reached crisis proportions, scarring and staining the tranquil beauty of our homeland. A looming mental health crisis fuelled by the wicked vaccine mandate that compelled or tricked people into injecting an untested, dangerous and disastrous toxin, will plague us for decades to come.

For further proof of the rot into which ULP has led our country, recall the ‘political grenade’ dropped by Mike Browne, one of Gonsalves’ top lieutenants who served as Education and Foreign Minister. Browne, in a letter to the media harshly criticised the ULP for landing serious body blows to the working class: high levels of poverty, unemployment, and underemployment, the wide gap between wages and survival, the draconian vaccine mandate, the refusal to negotiate a new collective agreement with the Teachers’ Union and the neglect by its parliamentary representatives.’

This stark reality flies in the face of the governing party’s claim that SVG is on the cusp of ‘first world status.’ To people with low incomes and working families, the high-sounding drivel attributed to the Human Development Index is as vainglorious and meaningless as citing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at $3 billion and a Per Capita Income of US$10,520 in 2024. Our Country may be a paradise, but works exclusively for the Gonsalves family and its local and foreign friends.

heroics of Elma Francois, a Vincentian woman elevated to National heroine status in Trinidad, Sheriff Lewis’ leadership during the 1935 uprising, and Nello Ebu’s anti-slavery brave pursuits remain unknown to citizens.

On the foreign policy front, a large section of our people disregard or remain unaware of the crippling American/European-led economic embargo on Cuba and Venezuela, scoff at their heroic efforts at self-sufficiency and survival and blame the revolutionary leaders for the difficulties experienced by the Cuban and Venezuelan people. In the absence of proper leadership guidance and education, and the Western media’s relentless effort to manufacture consent, some nationals glibly label Cuba a failed state sponsor of terrorism and Venezuela a narco state.

Two Years ago, the Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves presented a 5-hour-long budget address that did not mention Cuba once, completely disregarding the tremendous contribution Cuba continues to make quietly to our social, infrastructural and economic development. If Caracas did not have oil money, some of which can be funnelled into the ULP election campaign, Venezuela would be similarly abandoned.

Foreign economic and political interests have captured the country. We cater more to foreign businesses than to facilitating the development of our own. Rain Forest (Sandals related) is the named aggregator for our fish and other marine products. Our government snatched lands cultivated for generations by farmers in Richmond and turned them over to Rayneau Industries to mine a stone quarry. Rayneau is now in the business of buying agricultural produce from local farmers and selling it to Sandals and other takers. Other foreigner hoteliers and other greedheads are salivating at the opportunity to snap up our prime land and beach front. Soon, Rain Forest, a foreign concern, will open a depot at Calliaqua, directly competing with local fisherfolk.

Not even in the construction industry are local tradesmen and labourers given a fair shake. Big companies like Sandals and Aecon, the company that built the port, and the Taiwanese business outfit building the hospital, imported upwards of 50 per cent of the workers on these projects, thus taking bread out of the mouths of Vincentian working families.

Our country is saddled with a burgeoning debt burden with little to show as an income generator. With over $3 billion in debt and over $1billion owed to Taiwan, our country’s leader boasts that he is putting a ‘hook in the nation’s gill’ and dares anyone to try taking it out. Such anti-national rhetoric is accepted by the media class and erstwhile progressives without as much as a murmur.

julesferdinand@gmail.com

Politically and ideologically, absolutely no attempt was made to lift the consciousness of the working people. On the contrary, the ULP leader stoked their religious and cultural backwardness. Exhibit A. On nomination day, Gonsalves had his supporters carry a banner describing him ‘Caribbean King.’ Nine years after Renee Baptiste, the National Heroes Committee chair suggested that George McIntosh, Ebenezer Joshua, Milton Cato (undeserved), and Dr Pamenos Eustace join Joseph Chatoyer in our pantheon of heroes, but there was no action from on high. The

Rather than uplift our people and engage in programmes to alleviate poverty and encourage self-reliance, the government intentionally cultivates a dependency mentality. It boasts of borrowing millions and freely giving it away all too often to undeserving party hacks who suffered no damage.

The foregoing is the Unity Labour Party report card as decision 2025 approaches. It is a damning report of disdain, disregard, disrespect, neglect, and failure. November 27 presents the perfect opportunity to end Gonsalves ULP’s oppressive and exploitative hold on our country and usher in a new challenging path of democratic renewal.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions

Cruelty, Corruption, and Crime are on the Ballot

THERE IS LITTLE DOUBT that the 2025 Independence Day speech by incumbent Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, was an interesting put-together of enticing promises, (e.g. increased wages), all packaged in a thinly veiled socio-political construct.

The PM’s speech seemed to have resonated with a lot of Vincentians, but many found it

passing strange that the offers only take effect in the final months of 2025, which, curiously enough, is the constitutionally mandated year

for fresh general elections to elect a new government for the upcoming five-year term. The peculiar timing of the announcements might have triggered the argument that “these proposals were politically motivated”.

Most Vincentians would not refuse money or monetary gifts, particularly if the source is government. However, given the rapidly increasing cost of living in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the value and impact of the proposals will be varied. Let’s look at some possible scenarios:

1. Construction workers who currently receive daily wages of between $60 and $100 will only get an extra $20 to $30 on their fortnightly pay, before NIS and other deductions.

2. Public servants (nurses, doctors, teachers, police officers, etc.,) with current salaries in the range of $2000 to $5000 per month, will get an increase of $60 to $150 per month, which might invariably place them in a higher taxation bracket that will attract higher rates for the next financial year and beyond.

3. Self-employed Vincentians - farmers, fisherfolk, store clerks, shop owners, taxi and bus operators, market vendors, etc., while not receiving directly any of the promised ‘goodies’, may feel some negative impact, as experience has shown that the business and commercial sectors have always taken a cue from government to increase prices of their various goods and services, which attract excise and value added taxes (VAT).

4. The unemployed and under-employed persons account for some 30 per cent of the Vincentian population, and they will be expected to face a similar situation like the selfemployed persons, since they will also have to deal with additional cost of living increases.

cheese sold for a little over $25.00,is now priced around $150.00; then, a bottle of the favoured Strong Rum by unemployed and underemployed persons -sold for about $10.00, and a gallon was under $40.00, but nowadays, the cost of a much ‘watereddown’ bottle of strong rum is about $45.00, but sales by the gallon are now prohibited.

In any case, it is hoped that the proposals should at least maintain or improve the lifestyles of Vincentians and address/reduce existing economic disparities in our society.

It was obvious that Prime Minister Gonsalves was elated and bursting with happiness that he intimated, “the Christmas COLA should be called Ralph-Cola”, since they were “better than Pepsi Cola”. That Pepsi Cola analogy seemed rather weird, and I wondered whether it was not a Freudian slip, since it is reported that Pepsi Cola was specifically created to target Black people, or the African American market.

The general elections are scheduled for Thursday, the 27th of November. Let’s pray that we have a peaceful campaign and an electoral process that’s free and fair and free from fear.

Unfortunately, the ULP supporters of the South Windward constituency were dealt the ultimate insult when Ralph cancelled their planned candidate selection meeting, and firmly rejected their choice of Louis Daisley and foisted Derran John on them as their candidate. I am told that Ralph adamantly insisted that he “will appoint whom he wants”. That kind of disrespect and indignity is no longer hidden. Louis’s supporters might now realize that their views and opinions are not required; they are unimportant; and they do not matter.

I am a bit hazy on the issue of “Poor Relief” or “Public Assistance”. However, I think the amounts paid to deserving recipients had been doubled at some stage, but I cannot recall which administration made that adjustment.

I seem to recall, though, that when Poor Relief was $50.00 per month, a Ju-c sold in shops for less than a dollar, now a slightly smallersized drink sells for between $5.00 or $6.00 each; a 5-lb tin of cheddar

I trust, however, that those supporters who recognize the disrespect will not completely lose faith and drop out of the electoral process. That would be ill-advised and tragic.

I am aware that several persons have been suggesting that such high-and-mighty action on the part of the ULP leader has been “the biggest nail in the ULP coffin”. Time alone will tell.

Let’s hope that the thirst for one’s survival and/or selfish interests do not cloud the voters’ consciences and that they will do the right thing with their ballot.

Cruelty, Crime, and Corruption, are all on the Ballot! Vincentians can either vote to get rid of them or make them permanent.

Let’s see how people’s consciences work.

by Lennox

E. A. Daisley. November 14, 2025.

Medical student becomes instant hero

Saint James School of Medicine (SJSM) opened its first campus in St. Vincent in May 2014 and has since built a brand-new, state-of-the-art campus in Golden Vale, St. Vincent, which opened in 2024.

IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE the start of a quiet, rigorous four-year journey into medicine. But for Dr. John Tarolli, a firstyear student at Saint James School of Medicine (SJSM), his path to becoming Dr. John Tarolli a doctor took a shocking, high-stakes turn that was met not with a diploma, but with a sudden, heroic act that saved a toddler’s life.

Tarolli, a highly-accomplished academic with a Ph.D. and three cum laude degrees from the U.S., had traded his life in Miami for the sundrenched, yet intensely challenging, world of Caribbean medical school. Settled into his new routine–a whirlwind of systems-based curriculum and demanding quizzes–he was focused on his dream of becoming a pediatric surgeon.

Then, life and death converged in an instant on an otherwise ordinary afternoon.

The Three-Meter Drop: A Split Second to Save a Life

The scene unfolded at Tarolli’s apartment complex, just steps from the SJSM main campus. He was speaking with the landlord’s son at the bottom of a steep, hardened staircase, when an ordinary childhood adventure turned into a terrifying emergency.

Upstairs, little Thomas, a neighbour’s toddler, was innocently playing. In a blink, the boy slipped from a precarious three-meter-high platform.

Witnesses say Thomas went airborne, his stocky body sailing headfirst toward the unforgiving concrete floor below. A fall from that height onto that surface could have meant a broken neck, catastrophic head trauma, or certain fatality.

The Catch: A Sacrifice of Self

Before anyone could scream, Dr. Tarolli’s instincts–and his athletic build–took over.

In a remarkable display of quick reactionary flex, the medical student lunged. He managed to snatch Thomas in mid-air, arresting the toddler’s deadly momentum just inches from disaster.

Little Thomas suffered only a minor bump on his head. The potential victim was safe.

But the rescuer was not.

The force of the sudden stop–transferring the weight and velocity of the falling child into his own hand–shattered the bones in his right hand.

Dr. Tarolli suffered broken bones in his pinky finger and a fracture in his ring finger. His most severe injury was to his pinky, with considerable tendon damage and nerve issues resulting in chronic pain. He now faces an urgent return to the U.S. to see an orthopedic surgeon.

A Higher Calling: “Greater Love...”

Despite the pain and the immediate derailment of his academic start, Dr. Tarolli remains steadfast in his commitment to selfless service.

When asked if he regrets his heroic act at his extraordinary expense, he referred to his deeper motivation–his faith in Jesus Christ and his calling as a global volunteer missionary that has taken him to over 40 countries. He quoted the New Testament verse, John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his brother.”

In the Caribbean, John Tarolli is not just a medical student pursuing a

passion; he is an instant local hero. His action underscores a critical truth: some of the greatest heroes are not found in textbooks, but are forged in a split-second of selfless sacrifice.

To Dr. John Tarolli: on behalf of the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines–thank you for your selfless love, God speed and may you have a speedy recovery. (Source SJSM)

Paul MacLeish laid to rest

IN CLOSE TO 8000 FEET OF WATER approximately 10 nautical miles south-west of Kingstown, the body of the late Richard Paul Mc. Leish came to its final resting place.

His children, other family and close associates held back tears, though come wept, as his specially designed casket plunged into the pristine blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, disappearing out of sight in seconds.

And so it was that on board the Bequia Fast Ferry that the final chapter in the life of veteran a radio (communications) operator, pioneer radio and television broadcasting entrepreneur, motor racing exponent and life-long enthusiast

Paul “Pablo” MacLeish was closed.

His son - Richard Jr. read the eulogy written by long-standing friend and associate Carl John, as well as a tribute sent by fellow Grenadian broadcaster Leroy

Baptiste who, like Paul, was also a ham radio operator.

Nephews and other relatives read scriptures and tributes from other relatives and friends who were not able to attend the burial at sea.

An opening prayer was delivered by Pastor Errol Daniel of the Streams of Power church and thereafter, Rev. Victor Peters of the Kingstown R.C. Church conducted the final rites.

In addition to Paul’s children — Richard Jr., Sean, Simone, Chad and Amy - past and present staff of SVGTV and Hitz FM, now Magic FM, business partners/associates were forefront in attendance.

According to our maritime regulations, burials at sea must be conducted at least 10 nautical miles from a port, and to ensure that that regulation was adhered to, a member of the local guard sat with the captain of the Bequia Fast Ferry to confirm same, with the use of charts and global positioning instruments.

The management and staff of the St. Vincent Publishing Co. Ltd. extend condolences to the family of Paul MacLeish. May he rest in peace.

By: Donald De Riggs

IHS unveils gallery of past principals

AS PLANS FOR THE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONSin 2026 take shape, a gallery of photographs of all past principals was unveiled at the Intermediate High School (IHS) now located at Mc Kies Hill, on Friday, November 14, 2025.

The unveiling was one of several activities carded as the school celebrates 100 years in April 2026.

Founded by the late Dr. John Parmenas Eustace in 1926, the school has seen several principals with the longest serving principal being the third, Bertram “Timmy” Richards, who served an unbroken 48 years, resulting in the Intermediate High school (IHS) adopting the name “Timmy School”.

The unveiling ceremony was a mix of cultural items, including song and choral speeches by the students.

Master of Ceremonies Mrs. Kimberly Compton read the citations for the principals that included: the first principal, John Pamenas Eustace (deceased) 1926 — 1931, followed by his brother, Joseph Lambert Eustace (deceased) 1931 - 1941, who went to serve as Governor General from 19851988).

The third and longest serving principal was Bertram “Timmy” Richards (deceased), who served from 1941 - 1989.

Mr. Richards was followed by Jamaican, Audley Morgan (deceased)

who took over the reins from 1989 — 1995, followed by Cadman Lewis (deceased) from 1995 — 1996. Then came the first female principal - Mrs. P. Hermia Scott who served twice, first from 1996 — 1998 and then from 1999 — 2001.

Mrs. Bernadette Richards/Duncan held the reins briefly from 1998 — 1999.

Following Hermia Scott’s second stint, Mr. Ghofton A. Fergus took control from 2001 to 2002, with Mr. Oswald S. Nanton (deceased) taking up the mantle from 2002 — 2005.

Mrs. Beverly Williams/Jacobs was principal from 2005 - 2006 after which Ms. Helen Prince took control of the school from 2006 — 2008. Ms. Alinda Hypolite succeeded Prince and served from 2008 — 2013.

Holding the fort from 2014 — 2015 was Mrs. Bernadette Slater/Peters. She was succeeded by Ms. Elspeth Adams, whose tenure ran from 2015 - 2021.

Mrs. Mona Green is the current principal and has been since 2021.

During the anniversary year in 2026, the IHS will be teaming up with the recently formed Intermediate High School Past Student Association to conduct a series of activities, including a sports meet, talent show, and a bus tour for current students during the anniversary month in April.

A note on the IHS founder: Dr. J. P. Eustace was 21 years old when he founded the IHS. He went on to found

two other secondary schools, the Emmanuel High School

now the Dr.

and

Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was opened on March 27, 2024. It is one of seventeen Sandals beachfront all-inclusive resort across the Caribbean.

Sandals SVG wins 2025 Travvy Award

SANDALS SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINEShas proudly claimed one of the industry’s highest honours, winning Best All-Inclusive Resort – Overall, Gold (World) at the 2025 Travvy Awards, held recently.

Produced by TravelPulse and AGENTatHOME, the Travvy Awards celebrate excellence across global tourism, recognizing the top destinations, hotels, resorts and travel suppliers shaping the future of the travel industry.

General Manager Tamon Allen described the award as a powerful moment not only for the resort, but for the entire nation.

“This win belongs to our incredible team, to the Sandals brand, to our guests and to the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,” Allen said. “It shows the world that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is not only breathtaking, but truly world

class in hospitality and service. Since opening, Sandals Saint Vincent has captured the hearts of travellers seeking luxury, something fresh, intimate and authentically Caribbean. Recognition like this fuels our passion to continue crafting unforgettable experiences inspired by this beautiful island we call home.”

Allen also noted that the award highlights the rising prominence of the Eastern Caribbean as a leader in luxury travel, adding that “this growing momentum continues to elevate Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to international acclaim.”

Situated along the pristine shores of Buccament Bay, Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has rapidly emerged as one of the region’s most desirable, new luxury escapes since its opening in 2024. The resort was designed to honour the island’s

landscapes, thriving culture and warm Vincentian spirit, seamlessly blending elevated luxury with meaningful authenticity. These qualities have positioned Sandals Saint Vincent to standout in world leading all-inclusive experiences.

The Travvy Award further cements Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ place on the world stage as a premier destination for travellers.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Carlos James, in highlighting the achievement, commented: “This is a proud and historic moment for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines…. To have Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines voted the best all-inclusive resort in the world is a powerful endorsement of our destination, our people, and the strategic partnership we have built with Sandals Resorts International.”

He extended congratulations to Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, the leadership team, and most importantly, the hundreds of Vincentians whose professionalism and hospitality made this achievement possible.

Minister James used the occasion to applaud the growing partnership between the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, and Sandals Resorts International, describing it as a model for tourism development in the region. Noting, “As we expand airlift, enhance our visitor experiences, and continue to invest in our tourism product across the mainland and the Grenadines, this partnership will play a key role in shaping a resilient, inclusive, and competitive tourism industry for generations to come.” (Sources: Sandals SVG, SVGTA)

SDA holds service for the disAbled

ON SABBATH/SATURDAY 15TH

NOVEMBER,2025, the Calder Seventh-day Adventist Church held its annual service for persons who are differently-abled, commonly referred to as the disabled.

The service marked the 17th year that the church was hosting the service.

Celebrated under the theme, “Celebrating Abilities, Creating Possibilities”, the service opened with song led by the church praise and worship team and after a fitting programme by the Sabbath School, Pastor Claudius Morgan delivered a sermon in which he highlighted the healing power of God and the need to trust always in Him.

A cross-section of those in attendance at the Service hosted by the Calder

Brief remarks were made by Elder Rohan Charles who spoke on behalf of the SVG Mission of Seventh-day Adventist. He challenged the church to continue its effort in championing the cause of the vulnerable.

Mrs. Karen Nero spoke on behalf of National Mobilization. She assured the members of the church that her institution was pleased to work, and will continue to work with them, in the interest of the vulnerable.

In attendance at the service were

persons from the Lewis Punnett Home, School for Children with Special Needs-Georgetown and Kingstown, Calder Diabetic Association, National Society of and for the Blind, National Society for Persons with disAbilities, Voice of the Disabled and the Mental health Rehabilitation Centre. Care packages were distributed to all the differently-abled and challenged persons in attendance.

(Source: Pastor Sylvan Samuel)

RUBIS donation motivates MGS students

YOUNG FACES

GLOWING with gratitude highlighted the motivational impact of the gesture, as students of Marriaqua Government School (MGS) gathered with their teachers to receive a donation of school supplies from Team RUBIS.

Students and teachers of Marriaqua Government School with supplies presented by Team RUBIS.

(Source: RUBIS)

The presentation of $3,000 worth of school supplies from RUBIS West Indies Limited took place at the School on Tuesday, 4th November.

Fifteen students received book bags filled with essential items, while the school also received much-needed resources, including printing paper, files, white markers, erasers, folders, exercise books, notebooks, pens, pencils, etc.

The donation forms part of Rubis’ ongoing commitment to support education and ensure students have the tools they need to succeed.

RUBIS Accounts

Executive, Elroy Edwards, said: “We are proud to contribute to the learning environment at Marriaqua Government School. Providing students and teachers with the right resources not only supports academic achievement but also inspires and motivates students to reach their full potential. At RUBIS, we are committed to giving back to our communities and fostering a brighter future for the next generation.” Headmistress, Susan Joyles, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the staff, students, and parents. “Your generous donations have made a meaningful difference,

helping our students feel better equipped and motivated to learn. Acts of kindness such as yours create a positive learning environment and remind our children that there are people and organisations who care about their education and well-being. We are sincerely grateful for your continued support and partnership,” she said. Through initiatives like this, RUBIS continues to invest in local communities, demonstrating its commitment to education and social responsibility while positively impacting the lives of both students and educators. (Source: RUBIS)

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Do things with your children and avoid situations that make you feel as if you've neglected the ones you love. It's time to let loose. Your nerves are frazzled. Renovations to your domestic scene will pay high rewards.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Your ability to see other people's points of view will allow you to come to reasonable agreements. Travel will promote new romantic encounters and additional cultural knowledge. Someone may not be thinking of your best interests. Spend some time with the one you love. Pleasure trips will be satisfying.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

You need more space for the whole family. Your need to be in a leadership position will help you surpass any rivals you might encounter. Be an observer before getting involved. Make any decisions you have to in order to avoid feeling unsettled.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

You can make excellent investments if you are in the right place at the right time. Stabilize your own position by locking up your savings. Escapist tendencies will result in a poor reputation and a lack of confidence. You are best to back away from commitment.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Take the time to close deals that have been up in the air. Stress may cause minor health ailments. You need to pamper yourself for a change. Channel your energy into decorating or household chores.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Be prepared to have relatives or close friends introduce you to new and exciting individuals. Elders may need your help. Be sure not to burn any bridges. You'll get to your destination just as quickly.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

You may be confused regarding your love life. You won't impress anyone by being overly generous. Your ability to converse with charm will entice someone you may have had an interest in for some time now. Do not let them blow situations out of proportion.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

You would be wise to consider attending lectures that will broaden your awareness concerning your professional direction. Go out with close friends who understand your situation and your needs. Just be yourself. Re-evaluate your motives.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

You may have the opportunity to get involved in some interesting conversations. Don't be too quick to judge those you live with. Your ability to help others will win you points. Don't delay; go to your physician or dentist and get to the bottom of the discomfort.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Pleasure trips will bring you into contact with new and interesting people. Don't let yourself get rundown. You can have a great time if you go out with the one you love. Direct your energy into physical exertion. Residential moves will be favorable.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Be creative in your efforts. Be courteous if you wish to avoid major delays. Try not to lose your cool, and make your point known. You should socialize with clients or upper echelons of your industry if possible.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Don't let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance. Look before you leap. Try to bend but by no means should you give in completely. You can make it up to them later.

ACROSS 1. Rock video channel 4. Internet service (abbr.)

7. Singer Jerry 11. Cry of discovery 12. Trendy 14. Rome’s home (abbr.) 15. Maze rodent 16. Reckless 17. Corn spikes 18. Face, to Ralph Kramden

20. Memorable time

22. Exploit 23. Waitress on skates

27. Fashion model

Macpherson

30. Alibi __ 31. Adam’s madam

32. Expired

33. Cooking fuel

34. Londoner, informally

35. Fairy 36. Angelina, to Shiloh

37. Bail

38. Ignoramus

40. Flightless bird

42. Barbecue residue 43. Peanut butter cup maker 47. Good golf scores 50. Served perfectly 52. __-de-sac 53. Name’s first letter (abbr.) 54. Material for Christmas tree snow 55. “You __ Sixteen” 56. Classification 57. Large ocean (abbr.) 58. Silent gesture DOWN 1.Swimmer Spitz 2. Siamese 3. Winemakers’ needs 4. Land measures 5. Midwest airport 6. Fleur-de-__ 7. Clergyman 8. From __ Z (2 wds.)

9. Chem. rm. 10. Raised railways 13. __ and balances

19. Took to court 21. Charlotte of “The Facts of Life” 24. Greek goddess 25. Latin poet 26. Fountain or Sampras 27. Genesis locale 28. Caron film 29.Abandoned 30. “__ a Camera” (2 wds.) 33. Batman’s City 34. Sad color 36. Behave or print

preceder 39. “__ not, want not” 40. Upright 41. Hero’s award, often 44. Peruse 45. 21st-century currency

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V Politics dividing us

Dear George,

I LIVE WITH MY 18-YEAR-OLDboyfriend.

Things have been good until now.  All of a sudden, he is allowing politics to get between us. Up until now we supported the same political party but since I decided to switch my allegiance, he has vowed to get rid of me and even said that if he finds out I voted differently he is going to “out” my light.  I just laughed it off and told him to do whatever.    To be truthful, I have not been able to sleep since he said what he said. We still live and sleep together but it has not been the same. Do you think I should take him seriously?

Worried.

Dear Worried,

Words are powerful and all threats

Forgive her!

Dear George,

I RECENTLY TRAVELEDto the United States. My cousin asked me to do her a favour and take a package to the US for her. I trusted her and took her word that it was just a package of local snacks.

I got a surprise at the US customs when it was revealed that much of what was in the package was forbidden stuff. They accused me of trying to smuggle stuff into the country by not

must be taken seriously. The fact that his words have continued to haunt you is enough to push you to do something about it.

Let him know how you have been affected by his utterance and judging from his response you will decide whether or not to take it further. You are fully entitled to make your own political choice and if your partner cannot respect that to the extent where threats to your life are issued, then it’s time to reevaluate the future of your relationship.

declaring it. I admitted that I did not pack everything that was in my luggage and got off by paying a hefty fine. Now, my cousin does not want to reimburse me the money I had to pay as a fine and does not think it was a big deal what happened to me at customs. I have since written her off completely, but my other relatives are telling me I should not do that. Your thoughts please.

Highly Disappointed.

Dear Highly

Disappointed,

Your cousin should have leveled with you regarding the contents of the package. You, on the other hand, should not have blindly accepted that package without knowing exactly what the contents were. Out of decency your cousin should apologize and also reimburse you the money you were out. Going forward you will know better than to repeat the same mistake, period. Forgive her and try to put this behind you. Do this for your own sake.

George.

Half-brother woes

Dear George,

MY WIFE has a half-brother who wants to visit St. Vincent for the first time. She only recently got to know about this half-brother, and wants me to agree to let him stay with us for 3 weeks. She knows nothing about him except they are related by father. I asked her to arrange for him to stay at a guest house and even offered to pay for the accommodation. She flat out refused, saying no brother of hers was going to stay at a guest house while she has a house.

I have held my position and that has caused a rift between us. Do you see any solution to this problem?

Not Comfortable.

Dear Not Comfortable,

Maybe it would help if you came clear to your wife about why you are objecting to your wife’s brother staying at your (you and your wife) place. In the meantime, this situation does not need to deteriorate any further. It is her brother, and she is excited about establishing the sibling bond. Give her that chance to do so and maybe she will appreciate you all the more for it.

George.

The Vision of Transformation

Continued from Page 8.

What We Will Do In The Next Term

Over the past five years, your government spent more money on implementing transformative projects than ever before. In fact, the $568 million spent on capital projects in 2024 alone is more than the total capital expenditure between 2015 and 2020! In the next term, we will continue to invest in projects that fulfil our vision of transformation in the People’s interest. In the next term, we will:

Complete the $220 million Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital, revolutionizing tertiaryhealthcare in SVG

* Build new secondary schools at Brighton and Sandy Bay, the next generation of secondary education in SVG

* Complete Artistic, Cultural and Educational hubs in Bell Vue, Troumaca, and Petit Bordel, to accelerate transformation of the creative industries

* Partner with the private sector to build the 300 room Marriott Resort and the 375-room Beaches Resort at Peter’s Hope and Mt. Wynn, to welcome thousands of guests and create thousands more jobs in the hospitality sector

* Complete the $60 million Digital Transformation Project, which will catapult government services into the future

* Expand the Argyle International Airport and sign contracts with additional airlines to bring more tourists to SVG

* Build a state-of-the-art Grenadines Terminal alongside the modern Kingstown Cargo Port, to make Grenadines travel more seamless and comfortable

* Carry out huge investments by CWSA in respect of water delivery, including the US$52 million project developed between the government and the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (5Cs), to be funded by the Green Climate Fund, for desalination plants in Bequia, Canouan, Union Island, and Mayreau, sand or water upgrades on St. Vincent.

* Rolling out massive investments through VINLEC on electricity delivery, including by way of solar energy

* Conduct a massive urban renewal campaign to create attractive, safe and green residential, commercial and recreational spaces in Kingstown

* Begin construction of the modern city at Arnos Vale

* Operationalize the Modern Kingstown Cargo Port and build a modern Grenadines Ferry Facility

* Accelerate the roads revolution that built multiple climate-smart roads in SVG between 2020 — 2025.

* Upgrade all police stations physically, and technologically,

to make the police more comfortable and better equipped to fight crime

* Attract over $1.5 billion in foreign direct investment, to create jobs and grow the economy

* Reduce unemployment to below 5%, through the creation of thousands of additional jobs

* Complete sea defence works at Sandy Bay, and in other areas sensitive to erosion and sealevel rise

* Invest more in Carnival, and other national festivals

* Add lighting to 15 additional sporting facilities nationwide

* Complete the Sir Vincent Beache Athletic Stadium

* Expand the PRYME, ON-SITE, GYVE, SET and YES programmes to deliver more opportunities to young people

* Ensure that every single qualified student receives at least $30,000 in tuition assistance to attend university

* Provide laptops or tablet computers to every student in primary or secondary school

* Expand and enhance the Canouan and Union Island Airports

* Complete the reconstruction of infrastructure in the Southern Grenadines

* Continue the revolutionary rollout of TVET facilities and classes to enable Vincentians to gain marketable and employable skills

* Construct bridges in Noel and Overland, to complete the XXXX bridges built in North Windward since 2001

* Install desalination plants in Bequia, Union Island and Mayreau to reduce water vulnerability in the Grenadines

* Expand fisheries facilities in Chateaubelair, Calliaqua, Clare Valley, Shipping Bay and Lowmans Bay

* Reduce corporate and income taxes by a further 5%

* Improve the ease of doing business in SVG, to allow for quicker opening of bank accounts, easier clearance of goods through the port, faster registration of businesses, more efficient land titling, smoother utility connections, and a new Investment Act

* Reduce the cost of living through targeted supports to vulnerable households, stronger anti-gouging regulations, improved logistics for more affordable imported goods, and stronger consumer protection laws

* Roll out a revolutionary Math Improvement Programme to ensure that students in primary and secondary school get additional mathematics instructional time

* Expand the housing revolution with investments in townhouses for young professionals

* Enhance markedly all the indicators in human development

* Pursue fully the Sustainable Development Goals

Squash players excel at Barbados Open

THE SEVEN PLAYERS who represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the 2025 Barbados Junior Open, held at the Barbados Squash Club, November 13 to 16, left their imprint on the Tournament.

Leading the way for the Vincentian contingent was Savante Padmore, who retained the Boys Under-11 and was runner up in the Under-13 age group.

Padmore, enroute to retaining the Under-11 title, beat Tristan Noble 11-3, 11-1, 11-1; and dismissed Carter Farmer, 11-3, 11-3, 11-2. Padmore also outdid fellow Vincentian- Zavin Garrick, 11-7, 12-10, 1210.

In the Under-13 age category, Padmore offset

Thierry Padmore 11-5, 11-3, 11-3, after gaining a bye. He then ousted Zachary Lashley 11-4, 11-6, 11-4, to set up the final versus Finn Graham against whom he faltered - 9-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-5.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines was also represented in that age group by Ethan Webster and Zavin Garrick. Webster overcame Toby Hoost 3-0, but fell to Finn Graham, 3-0. Garrick followed a similar pathway, as he beat Elian Hamati 3-0 but lost out to Finn Graham, 3-0. Meanwhile, Webster had one win in the Under-15 age group, triumphing over Jaylen Brewster 3-0, but

suffered a 3-0 loss to Finn Graham, along with a 3-0 defeat to Ethan Cyrus.

Aiden De Freitas took the runner up spot in the Boys Under-17. He saw off Ethan Cyrus, 3-0 and fellow VincentianJ’Quan Stephens, 3-0, but bowed to Ben Shepherd 3-0. Stephens was also beaten by Cyrus, and Shepherd by 3-0 margins.

De Freitas also docked second in the Under-19 age category, again falling to Shepherd. He swept aside Kai Shepherd 3-0, and Caden Collymore 3-0 but lost 30 to Shepherd, in a closely contested match up.

Squash Masters compete in Tortola

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

ended with a first place and a second place, in the Men’s 45 and Over and the Men’s 35 and Over respectively of the inaugural Meridian Pan American Masters Championships at the Tortola Sports Club, British Virgin Islands, November 13 to 16, 2025. The Vincentian representation comprised the trio of Roy De Freitas, Othneil Bailey and Keith Boyea.

Caeli George lost both matches in the Girls Under-15, beaten by Olivia Watts, 3-0, and by Peyton MarshallBrancker, 3-0.

George had a 3-0 win over Kaitlin Farmer in the fifth and sixth place play offs.

And Ciara George had

De Freitas proved to be the standout as he won the Men’s 45 and Over title. He first saw off Celv Velarde 11-7, 11-1, 11-6 in 18 minutes; Marco Zenteno in a thrilling fivegames match, 11-4, 11-8, 8-11, 7-11, 16-14.

De Freitas then dismissed Peter Pirtheeesingh in the finals, 11-8, 11-7, 12-10.

Bailey, in his silver medal run in the 35 and Over, beat Horacio Guerra

11-3, 11-3, 11-1, as well as Manuel Luarca 11-5, 11-2, 11-2.

He also defeated Christopher Pease, in three games, 11-6, 11-2, 11-6. Bailey, though, had to settle for the runner-up spot, losing to Joseph Chapman 3-11, 4-11, 5-11 in the final. Boyea found the going tough in the male 65 and Over age category, going under to Harold Meneses (9-11, 4-11, 11-13), and Bert Kornyei (7-11, 12-10, 6-11, 3-11).

to settle for the number two spot in the Female Under-19, winning two of her three matches in the round robin format.

Another athlete heading for the USA

connected with her coach at the CSC and has been receiving work programmes.

“My coach normally sends programmes every month, so I am getting familiar with it ahead of the commencement of the scholarship. It’s not too far from what my local coach Godfrey Harry usually gives us, it is just the intensity level is greater,” Shaquania explained.

SHAQUANIA JACOBS, one of this country’s top young track athletes (sprints), is looking forward to beginning a two-year scholarship at Central Arizona College (CAC), USA. All things being equal, she will do so early in 2026.

Interestingly, the past student at Thomas Saunders Secondary School has already

Shaquania shared that her athletics ability and promise was recognized, sited by coach Harry during her early years at TSSS. Under his guidance, she developed into a competitive 100m, 200m and 400m track athlete, and her performances at the Inter Schools Athletic Meets led to her participation in the

CARIFTA Games. She also spoke of competing at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games, Whitsuntide Games in Grenada and friendly meets in Martinique, all of which have refined her skills and enhanced her understanding of track and field generally. And as she looks to grab the opportunity to advance her academic and athletics journeys, Shaquania is not forgetting those who have helped her to reach this stage.

“Definitely Godfrey Harry, my coach. He is on my back telling me to keep my grades up, train hard because when I get up there it will be tough. I also want to thank my Mom,” she said.

I.B.A. ALLEN

SSSG retain SVGCC football title

SPORT SCIENCES SOON GRADS (SSSG) became the first team to win back-toback titles in the National Lotteries Authority Unique Touch St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) Invitational Football Competition.

They did so when they held on to 10 lead from the 32nd minute, when their captain, Kareem Davis, converted. It was a hard-fought encounter thereafter, but a determined Sports Science squad held on to the very end.

Prior to the SSSG-System 3 Youth clash, the Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DTVE) Stars prevailed 5-4 in a penalty shootout over Northern Stars, to claim the third position. That game was tied 0-0 at the end of regulation time.

Following the games, awards to outstanding performers in the tournament were distributed. In addition to MVP awards for all participating teams, the following awards were among those handed out: Adonis Adams of SSSG - MVP of the Tournament and the Best Defender; Gabriel Doyle of DTVE All Stars - Best Mid-Fielder and MVP in the 3rd Place Playoff; Kareem Davis of SSSG - MVP of the Finals; Keivon Clarke of DTVE — Top Goal Scorer, 13 goals. Kirtney Franklyn of Northern Stars - Best Striker.

In 2019 the SVGCC expanded its sporting competitions moving from being Divisional to Invitational and in so doing offered established clubs and organizations opportunities to participate, and in turn exposed the students at the college to a higher level of competition.

Since then, the RSVG Police Youth Club in 2019, Jebelle Youths in

SVGCC adds Netball Programme

THE SVG COMMUNITY COLLEGEhas added Netball to the list of sports discipline offered in the Sports Science Programme.

This addition, together with another Volleyball, another recent addition, complete a list of six disciplines, the other four being Football, Basketball, Cricket and Track and Field, on offer.

National Netball Coach Godfrey Harry is happy to lead the Netball programme. He pointed out that the programme will accommodate fifteen first year students who will be equipped not only with the knowledge of what the sport entails and knowledge required for satisfying the course requirements, but that they will also acquire the skills to coach children ranging for five to eleven years old.

In this first instance, the programme will run for fourteen weeks, after which, and during the second year, the students will

be assigned to primary schools for attachment and assessment.

Roxel John, Sports Coordinator of the SVGCC, and Harry are hopeful that some of the persons who pursue the course will go on

to become American Federation of Netball Associations and Caribbean Netball Association accredited coaches.

I.B.A. ALLEN

2020 and 2022 and System 3 Youths in 2023 copped the titles, until the SSSG returned glory to the College in 2024 and now in 2025.

The 2025 finals and third place playoff were played at the Brighton Football Centre, Friday 14th November.

I.B.A. ALLEN

SVG fails to defend ECVA U-23 title

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES finished in fifth place in the 2025 Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Men’s Volleyball Championships that ended last Sunday, November 16, at the YMCA Indoor Facility, St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.

Dominica champed the title ahead of Antigua and Barbuda. Grenada placed third, St. Lucia — fourth, and Anguilla — sixth.

A 3-1 (24-26, 25-17, 25-19, 25-21) win over Anguilla landed the Vincentians their final placing in the play off for the minor positions.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines entered the Tournament as defending champions having triumphed in the British Virgin Islands in 2023 but failed to replicate that form two years later.

Four losses in the preliminary round negated any chance the Vincentians might have had retaining the title.

The dethroned champions were beaten by St. Lucia 3-0 (25-17, 26-24, 25-12), lost to Grenada 30 (25-19, 25-17, 25-19), were also beaten by Dominica 3-1 (25-14, 20-25, 25-13, 25-17), and despite a spirited effort versus Antigua and Barbuda, they were beaten 3-2 (23-25, 19-25, 2511, 25-19, 15-12).

The lone win for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the preliminary round was a 3-0 (25-20, 25-16, 25-12) dismissal of Anguilla.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ CaptainDamari Frederick was adjudged the Best Server of the Championship.

Curacao in the World Cup

WITH THE FINAL LIST for the 2026 still to be determined, one thing is certain: the Caribbean island of Curacao is into the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They secured their spot with a nil/nil draw against Jamaica in Jamaica, last Tuesday evening. Curacao, with a population of 156,000, defied the odds and became the smallest nation to qualify for a FIFA World Cup.

Football fans worldwide are left pondering how Curacao accomplished that feat. They topped their group, disposing of Bermuda, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica to take the top spot and seal their position.

With Canada, Mexico and United States of America having secured spots on account of being hosts, three other Concacaf nations joined the fray by way of direct qualification.

Suriname and Jamaica can increase the Concacaf number if they overcome their opponents in the Intercontinental play off. They will face off.

Other teams on the 2026 final list include Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia from the African zone.

Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Uzbekistan represent the Asian zone.

Europe sees Austria, Belgium, Croatia, England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Scotland, Spain and Switzerland with confirmed appearances.

New Zealand carries the Oceana Hope of securing a World Cup title.

South America will be counting on the likes of Argentina to boost the region’s morale, while focus will be on Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Uruguay to keep that continent’s flag swirling.

The rest of the 48 finalists will be known by March 31, 2026.

That will create the opportunity for more European teams to make the final. Teams like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, Denmark, Italy, Kosovo, Poland, Republic of Ireland, Slovakia, Turkey, Ukraine, Wales, Romania, Sweden, Northern Ireland, and North Macedonia square for four more spots.

World Football is perhaps the biggest sporting spectacle worldwide. With the number of teams increased from 32 at the 2022 World Cup, attention to this year’s showpiece will have added attraction.

Curacao’s elevation to the FIFA World Cup is viewed as a giant step for the Dutch oriented Caribbean island. Their elevation is greeted with jubilation by their home fans and accepted as a piece of genuine pride by that nation.

That countries with global prestige out of contention, Curacao’s jaw dropping performance is even more astounding.

Everyone will be watching with anxiety how Curacao fares on the world stage. But none can belittle their distinguished performance.

Curacao’s strides were greeted with overwhelming joy by the nation’s population, some of whom took the trip to Jamaica for the final leg of that Group play off.

They would have been satisfied with good showing by their team. Jamaica need to win to make it a direct entry. They still have an opportunity, but having to go through the continental stages adds an extra weight on their shoulder.

Suriname, another Netherland induced country has the opportunity of joining their Dutch counterparts on the biggest stage of world cup football championship.

Mixed results for Vincy Heat

Vincy Heat continues on its development path in preparation for the 2026 season.

Right: Despite the mixed result, Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson was pleased with the application of the players.

THE SVG NATIONALSenior Football Team, Vincy Heat, had mixed fortunes in their recent Friendly Series played in the Dominican Republic.

In their open match against the host played on November 12, Vincy Heat lost 2-0 despite what reports said was a competitive showing, during which they created several promising opportunities, including failing to

convert a penalty.

The team rebounded with an assertive performance in their second match on Saturday,

November 15th, securing a 3—1 victory over Saint Lucia. Oalex Anderson, captain, opened the scoring in the 12th minute, Diel Spring struck in the 13th minute and Azihno Solomon added the third in the 62nd minute, to cap off the team’s improved performance.

Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson recognized the value of Friendlies.

“It was a successful outing for the team in our continuing development. We came up against a very difficult DR team in the first game and performed well. An unfortunate missed penalty sidelined any chance of securing a point, but it was a good litmus test for us to see where we are against one of the top teams in the region. In the second game, we took control early and dominated the Lucians for the entire match.”

Team Manager Dominique Stowe commended the players for their effort, professionalism, and determination, noting that the experience gained during the series will contribute significantly to preparations for the 2026 season.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Shortened Super50 Cup gets going

A SHORTENED VERSIONof the CWI 2025/2026 CG United Super50 Cup opened last Wednesday. November 19, with three matches in Trinidad and Tobago, where all matches in this edition are scheduled to be played from November 19 — 29.

The 2025/26 edition has been reduced to 16 matches down from 31.

The open matches were set to feature: Jamaica Scorpions against Guyana Harpy Eagles at the Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain; Trinidad and Tobago Red Force versus Barbados Pride at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground, St Augustine; and Leeward Islands Hurricanes facing off against Windward Islands Volcanoes at Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba.

Six teams - Jamaica Scorpions, Guyana Harpy Eagles, Barbados Pride, T&T Red Force, Leeward Islands Hurricanes and the Windward Volcanoes - will contest the 2025/26 edition. The West Indies Academy and Combined

Campuses and Colleges have been excluded.

The contest will be fought in a round-robin format, with the top two qualifying directly for the final.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced that all day/night clashes will be broadcast live on ESPN Caribbean, ESPN+, Disney+, and Fancode in India.

Cricket enthusiasts will recall that the anticlimax to what was described up to the point as an exciting and competitive 202/25 Super50 Cup. Finalists Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions forfeited the final when their captains were not present for a delayed toss, effectively refusing to play, after which CWI announced that there will be no champion for the 2024/25 edition of the competition.

Teddy Bishop, right-handed batsman from Grenada, will lead the Windwards in this year’s Super50 Cup.

for the 2024/25 champion.

Some US$100,000 was earmarked as the winning purse

The Windward Volcanoes team reads: Teddy Bishop (c), Sunil Ambris, McKenny Clarke, Darel Cyrus, Kenneth Dember, Shadrack Descarte, Dillon Douglas, Keon Gaston, Johann Jeremiah, Daniel McDonald, Kimani Melius, Kirtsen Murray, Darron Nedd and Stephan Pascal.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Classifieds/Court

Farmer charged with wounding cousin

by HAYDN HUGGINS

DAVID STEPHENS, a 65year-old farmer of Richland Park, will return to the Serious Offences Court on December 16, in connection with an incident in that community on November 12, in which his cousin Tian Stephens was reportedly chopped about his body.

David has been charged with wounding Tian, a 33-year-old baker of the same address, with intent.

The accused was not required to plead when

he appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. He was unrepresented.

Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court, that the victim was still a patient at the Male Surgical Ward at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, with cutlass wounds about his body.

However, the prosecutor did not object to bail, but requested a suitable surety and conditions along with a No Contact order.

The Chief Magistrate then granted bail in the sum of $5,000 with one surety, on condition that the accused report to the

Tuesday.

AI REAL ESTATE

THE NEW 9,500 SQUARE FOOTMarriaqua Civic Centre was officially opened on November 18, 2025.

Situated in Hopewell, it replaces the decades old Marriaqua Community Centre.

Constructed at a cost of EC$10 million, sourced from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines, the new Centre provides office space, has food preparation and dining areas, an auditorium, classrooms and a computer laboratory.

Continued on Page 3.

MARRIAQUA CIVIC CENTRE OPENED CANDIDATES SQUARE OFF

byWILLIAM’

THE LIST OF CANDIDATES as of Monday 10th November, 2025, Nomination Day for the November 27, 2025 general election, shows St. Clair Leacock for the New Democratic Party (NDP) against new comer Marvin Fraser for the Unity Labour Party (ULP), in the Central Kingstown constituency.

Orande Brewster, the ULP incumbent, faces a challenge from NDP’s debutant Conroy Huggins, and independent candidate Dr. Doris Charles. Fitzgerald Bramble holds the sway in East Kingstown from his victory in the November 5, 2020 poll and once again, will contest against the ULP’s Luke Browne.

Finance Minister Camillo

Gonsalves (ULP) and Laverne Gibson-Velox will do battle in East St. George, a repeat of the candidates from the 2020 election.

St. Clair Prince holds the Marriaqua constituency for the ULP and will be challenged by NDP’s Phillip Jackson, a first-time candidate.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves comes under attack, for another time,

from the NDP’s Cheiftain Neptune in North Central Windward.

The battle in North Leeward is between ULP’s Carlos James and another NDP debutant - Dr. Kishore Shallow.

In North Windward, it is a lady’s battle with Grace Walters replacing Montgomery Daniel for the ULP, facing NDP’s Shevern John.

For a second time around, Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday is up against ULP’s Carlos Williams in the Northern Grenadines.

The South Central Windward constituency sees a repeat of the last general elections, with incumbent Saboto Caesar up against the NDP’s Israel Bruce.

Continued on Page 3.