NDP halts election results protests until after Christmas

The New Democratic Party will be taking a break from their protest action so that supporters can take part in the Christmas activities.

This was disclosed by president and leader of the NDP Arnhim Eustace on Nice Radio Tuesday afternoon.{{more}}

“The people, ever conscious of their democratic right, can and will do what they want in this immediate period, but officially our party shall not organize any public action for the next few days.”

Eustace, who has led his party in protest action since the announcement of the results of the December 9 general elections, stated that he has heard the cry from businesses, in particular small businesses.

“Our many supporters, friends and well-wishers and other Vincentian patriots have asked us to be mindful of the already curtailed Christmas observances. Businesses, particularly small businesses and vendors, that have already had a difficult year in this faltering economy under the Gonsalves regime, have said they want a short period to try to keep their heads above water.

“We in the NDP have heard you,” Eustace stated.

He also disclosed that the party has already taken several steps to have the validity of the elections contested in the court, both locally and regionally.

“I am pleased to announce two major developments today. We have written to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, formally complaining about the illegitimate installment of Ralph Gonsalves as Prime Minister. We have the use of the regional mechanism to ensure that democracy is saved and protected in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Secondly our first legal motions regarding these elections will also be filed in our courts on Wednesday.”

Up to press time Wednes­day night, Search­light could not confirm that the ‘legal motion’ had been filed by the NDP.

Since the results of the December 9 general elections, the NDP has refused to accept the results, alleging that ballot boxes had been tampered with; that 320 persons had voted illegally in the Central Leeward and improper election day procedures.

“Since the general elections were held last week, we have repeatedly declared that the elections have not been free or fair and that as a result we have an illegitimate government that we continue to refuse to recognize,” he reiterated.

Eustace wished Vincentians a prayerful Christmas and encouraged persons to pray for resolve, even though the struggle continues.

“The people of St Vincent have also told us to not let this injustice stand and we have also heard them, so this struggle shall continue after Christmas. We therefore want to wish the nation a prayerful Christmas, one in which you reach out to God for resolution for our problem. Remember that prayer is very powerful.” (CM)