Threatening to spoil Our Christmas

AT THIS TIME of year, right on the doorstep of Christmas, all our focus would normally be on that festival, a central part of the Caribbean spiritual and cultural identity. Yet there are dark external forces which threaten to distract our attention away from the birth of the Prince of Peace and to engulf our region in a war which can bring no good or benefits to our people.

Still, it must be said that not even the drums of war could have drowned out the elation of the Vincentian populace as they enjoyed what for them were the first fruits of the sweeping electoral victory of the New Democratic Party one month ago. Dubbed a “VAT -free shopping day” and timed for a Friday- nicely coinciding with the surname of the new Prime Minister- there was an enthusiastic response by shoppers, eager to take advantage of what was perceived as bargain shopping. Incidentally, it also provided the new government a breathing space as it tries to come to grips with the enormity of governance by an inexperienced administration.

The response has also provided a respite as it prepares for what must be the most low-key official opening of Parliament today. Strangely for an administration riding on an overwhelming electoral victory, it was the Vat-free shopping which dominated the news. Its initiation was clearly welcomed by shoppers so much so that Prime Minister Friday has pledged to do another in August of next year for the benefit of parents who will be facing the start of the 2026 school year one month later.

Expectations are certainly high. But for the moment, the message is “Merry Christmas to you”.

Normally one would follow up on this greeting by wishing one and all a “Happy NewYear”. But this year the outlook for the people of the Caribbean, for those of us in the southern Caribbean in particular, the outlook is far from bright. In addition to our own regular challenges, especially economic and social, there are enormous clouds emanating from the north, clouds of war and destruction, which threaten to upend even our most optimistic plans. For the first time in over four decades, we find ourselves being drawn into a confrontation which has nothing to do with us but could have severe consequences.