NDP encouraged to get on board

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is out to win over supporters of the New Democratic Party (NDP).

On Sunday, July 13, 2008, while wrapping up his speech at the historic Ground Breaking Ceremony for the commencement of earthworks on the International Airport Project at Argyle, the Prime Minister said: “I know the vast majority of NDP supporters support this international airport and I am appealing to them directly to tell them to abandon their leaders in the NDP who are very backward, who are being unpatriotic, who opposing this airport and join the unity tree, join the patriotic train, join the train for the construction of the international airport for all of us, for our children and grandchildren.{{more}}

Even though General Elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are not constitutionally due until 2011, Prime Minister Gonsalves was in a decidedly political mood, dancing to the melody of ‘This Is My Government,’ sung by Damian McTair.

The political leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) acknowledged that during the construction of the airport there will be challenges from time to time. He said he foresaw political detractors harping on the challenges that will confront them.

“I tell you here tonight, there is nothing that the enemies of this government and of this country can do which can derail us from our path to bring development to St.Vincent and the Grenadines,” said Dr.Gonsalves.

On Sunday, Queen’s Counsel Parnel Campbell, a former Deputy Prime Minister and Attorney General in the James Mitchell led New Democratic Party (NDP) administration, was standing among ULP party supporters and others who turned out to witness the event. He was invited by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves to sit among the dignitaries which included representatives of regional governments and organizations, members of Cabinet and their spouses, as well as members of the diplomatic corps.

On December 7, 2005, the Gonsalves led ULP romped home with just over 55 per cent or 32,015 of the votes cast, while the NDP received 44 per cent or 25,655 of the votes in the General Elections. (HN)