November 27th will see the beginning a new era for the New Democratic Party. The party’s annual Convention will be the platform for the election of a new Party Leader. This election comes on the heels of an announcement made by the Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace that he is resigning from his post as Leader of the Party.
Mr. Eustace made the announcement at a meeting of the Central Committee of the New Democratic Party on Wednesday, adding that he will remain as the Parliamentary Representative of the East Kingstown Constituency. The veteran politician said he would inform the Governor General of the decision and that in accordance with the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the elected members of the NDP, including himself, would advise the Governor General whom they support as the new Opposition Leader.
Contenders for the position of Opposition Leader: Godwin Friday, Vice-President of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for the Northern Grenadines, St. Clair Leacock, Vice-President of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown and Daniel Cummings, Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown.
According to IWitness News, there has been speculation that Godwin Friday, Vice-President of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for the Northern Grenadines may becoming the next leader of the Party.
Meanwhile, Major St. Clair Leacock, Vice-President of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, said on SVGTV News that if he was granted the opportunity, “…he will grab it with both hands”.
According to IWitness News, Daniel Cummings, Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown said, “What caused some of the confusion is that I am absolutely not campaigning for the position. If the people want me, it is fine. If they don’t want me it is fine.” He was referring to speculations that there were issues between him and Major Leacock.
Mr. Eustace has been the Leader of the Opposition since 2001 when he took over the reins from Sir James Mitchell. Eustace led as Prime Minister for eight months before a general election was called and have since lead the Opposition Party for four consecutive unsuccessful general elections.
The New Democratic Party Convention is slated to be held on November 27th at Democratic House in Kingstown.
Photo Credits: IWitness News
