EDITOR: I am a supporter of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and my interest is vested in the development of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

One may ask if I supported the leadership of Mr Arnhim Eustace… “Yes!” I supported Mr Eustace as the leader of the NDP, today Dr Friday is the leader of the NDP and this is something I did not support, but Dr Friday, to my surprise, appears to be doing a good job so far. The reason I say this is because every issue he speaks about sends a shiver to the Unity Labour Party (ULP) and creates problems for them as well. He brings up issues like: crime, vat, unemployment, accountability, poor state of the economy and other issues which are hindering the development of SVG.

Vincentians are currently in a state of confusion; why? Simply because the ULP is saying that things are good in our country. The NDP has been pointing out some areas of governance that are struggling. Besides the building of the Argyle International Airport, what else can Vincentians say that Dr Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP are doing that has a positive impact on the lives of Vincentians? Should Vincentians entertain the thought of change from the ULP? Would that change bring a difference?

According to Dr Friday, change will make a difference with job creation, improved health care, the investment of more capital in tourism, the creation of more incentives to the private sector and making sure one Vincentian in every home is gainfully employed. These suggestions coming from the Opposition Leader are very excellent and would definitely make a difference. The question most Vincentians are asking is why more isn’t happening for the ULP. Is it that they are becoming complacent, or is it the lack of will from other ministers of government?

For our country to move forward, I think it’s time for a change from Dr Gonsalves to Dr Friday. Yes, they are equally qualified for the job of Prime Minister. Let me remind Vincentians that they once said Dr Ralph Gonsalves could never gain the position of Prime Minister, but today he is Prime Minister. I am of the impression that Dr Gonsalves can do much more and that’s why I’m suggesting a change from the ULP to the NDP. This will be a progressive move for SVG. It’s definitely time for a change; the people are crying out for a change!

I am profoundly disappointed with Dr Gonsalves and my biggest disappointment is that he fails to admit that things are hard in SVG. Dr Gonsalves, you need to face reality. The constant misinformation that Vincentians are being fed by persons who speak for the ULP is utterly alarming. These persons who speak for the ULP are creating a frightening atmosphere and stifling Vincentians. They need to stop! It’s hindering our country’s growth.

The areas that Vincentians are extremely concerned about are: job creation, lack of productivity, national debt, poor state of economy, agriculture, the struggling offshore sector, the manufacturing sector is bleeding for recognition and the human resource can do much better for our country.

I honestly believe that the NDP would do an excellent job at bringing growth to our economy. I am hoping that Vincentians will do what is right and make the change.

Let’s not wait until it’s too late… let’s make a change that will make SVG great again.

Alfred Bernard