St. Vincent and the Grenadines sets November 27 election date

Vincentians will head to the polls on November 27, 2025, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves announced during the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) “Labour Strong Rally” held recently at Richmond Hill. The announcement officially sets the stage for what is expected to be one of the most consequential general elections in the country’s recent history.

- Advertisement -

According to iWitness News, the 15-seat Parliament was dissolved on October 28, clearing the way for the electoral process. Gonsalves, who first led the ULP to victory on March 28, 2001, has since guided the party through multiple elections — in 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020. Under his leadership, the ULP secured a historic fifth consecutive five-year term in 2020, winning by a 9–6 margin over the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

“It is now decision time for our free and democratic people in free and fair elections for you to choose between the ULP and the NDP,” Gonsalves declared at the rally.

This year’s election marks only the second time since 1951 that Vincentians will vote in a general election held in November, making it a rare event in the nation’s political history. The November 27 date also means the ULP government will remain in power for roughly three weeks beyond its constitutional five-year term — a provision allowed under the constitution, which permits Parliament to sit until February 2026 before a new election must be called.

Notably, this is only the second time Gonsalves has extended his term beyond five years, having done so briefly before the 2010 election.

Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday, making his second bid for prime minister, is leading the NDP’s campaign. The party has proposed introducing a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme to generate additional national revenue — a sharp policy departure from Gonsalves’ ULP, which has historically opposed such schemes in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Prime Minister Reports Death Threat

As election tensions rise, Gonsalves revealed this week that he has received serious death threats related to the upcoming vote. Speaking on BOOM FM 106.9’s OMG Show on Monday, the prime minister read aloud a social media comment allegedly posted to the iWitness News Facebook page, stating: “execution for Ralph if NDP does not win.”

Gonsalves said the post was brought to his attention by his security team but emphasized that the threat does not intimidate him. Local law enforcement has been alerted, and an investigation is underway to determine its credibility.

Police Call for Calm and Respect

The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) has issued an appeal for peace, tolerance, and respect as campaigning intensifies. The Force is urging citizens to act responsibly—both online and offline—and to avoid language or actions that could inflame tensions.

In a public statement, police officials reminded citizens that “this period calls for calm and thoughtful conduct,” warning that damage to campaign materials or property could constitute an offence under Section 267 of the Criminal Code (Cap. 124). The RSVGPF also underscored that the Representation of the People Act (Cap. 6) prohibits threats, violence, or disorderly behavior aimed at influencing voters or disrupting the electoral process.

The Force said it will investigate all reports of threats, intimidation, or violence swiftly and impartially, and prosecute offenders in accordance with the law. Political parties are being encouraged to promote restraint and ensure their supporters respect opposing views.

“The choices made by individuals, both in public and private spaces, can either strengthen unity or sow division,” the RSVGPF stated. “Every Vincentian has a role in protecting the democratic process through measured words and responsible actions.”

As the nation prepares for the November 27 vote, both major parties are intensifying their campaigns, and the spotlight remains on how St. Vincent and the Grenadines will navigate this tense but pivotal moment in its democratic journey.