Police call for Peace and responsible elections conduct

The Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) has sent out an appeal to citizens of St Vincent and the Grenadines to uphold peace, and demonstrate tolerance and respect as the nation moves toward the November 27, 2025 general elections.

The appeal, made in a release earlier this week comes even as photographs have appeared on social media showing damage done to political party billboards, though persons from the Unity Labour Party (ULP) and the New Democratic Party (NDP) have said they have received no reports of physical violence associated with their elections campaign.

In the release, the police said they are reminding the public that this period calls for calm and thoughtful conduct,

particularly in how opinions are shared and disagreements managed.

“Every Vincentian has a role in protecting the democratic process through measured words and

responsible actions,” the release states in part.

“The Force continues to promote a climate of cooperation and reason, noting that the choices made by individuals (both in public and private spaces) can either strengthen

unity or sow division. Vincentians are encouraged to act with patience, understanding, and restraint to preserve the harmony that defines the nation.”

The police said reports of damage done to campaign materials have reached them, and the RSVGPF is reminding persons that such behaviour undermines the democracy and may amount to an offence under the Criminal Code (Cap. 124). Section 267 provides that “any person who, without lawful excuse, destroys or damages any property belonging to another intending to destroy or damage such property, or being

reckless as to whether such property would be destroyed or damaged, is guilty of an offence”.

The police said they have also observed a rise in political tension and are urging persons not to let disagreements turn hostile.

“All reports of threats, intimidation, or violence will be investigated swiftly and impartially, and offenders prosecuted according to law,” the police said as well.

“ Political parties are likewise encouraged to continue promoting calm among their supporters and to reinforce messages of respect for opposing views. The example set

by leaders can go a long way in keeping the campaign atmosphere peaceful.”

The RSVGPF in the release is also reminding citizens that the Representation of the People Act (Cap. 6) addresses election-related offences, including the use of threats, violence, or disorderly conduct to influence or disrupt the democratic process.

“The RSVGPF remains impartial and committed to maintaining order and safety throughout the election period, and asks for the continued cooperation of all citizens in ensuring that St. Vincent and the Grenadines demonstrates maturity, respect, and pride as Election Day approaches.” On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, representatives of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), and the New Democratic Party (NDP)initialled the Code of Conduct for the 2025 general elections which sets out how both entities and their supporters are to conduct themselves during this period.