The upcoming general election is “the most important in a generation” and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) “simply cannot allow another five years of ULP government”.
Leader of the Opposition Godwin Friday further says that the polls will decide not just who governs the country for the next five years, but also its direction for many more years to come.
“It will decide whether or not we can create jobs for our people, build prosperity, and offer opportunity and hope, especially to our young people. Hope that they may build a good life here in their country,” he told his New Democratic Party’s (NDP) virtual campaign rally in Kingstown last Thursday.
“We simply cannot allow another five years of ULP government,” said Friday who is leading the NDP for the first time in its fourth attempt to unseat the ULP which came to office in March 2001.
He said voters have a clear choice in the general elections, which are constitutionally due by March 2021, but which Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves says will be held by the end of this year.
“You can vote for more of the same with the ULP or you can vote for a better future for your families with the NDP because there is an alternative, a better way,” the opposition leader said.
“It is time for a change and time to give me and my team in the NDP the opportunity to plant the seeds for a better, brighter future.”
Friday said a vote for the NDP will “prevent the worst unemployment crisis” SVG has ever seen.
“Our country urgently needs the biggest job creation programme it has ever seen. This is why change is so important.”
He said his party has a clear plan and the determination to build a better SVG for citizens’ future.
“Our priority will be job creation. We want to build a country that works for everyone and where everyone who wants to work, can. Not just for some people, as it is now.
“Creating better conditions, which means our people are happy to stay here at home and work to build up themselves and their country.
“We will set ambitious targets to deliver the investments, resources and production we need.”
Friday said a strong economy and good infrastructure will bring foreign investment and increased wages and better living standards for all Vincentians.
“Without a strong economy, we will not be able to afford to pay for schools and hospitals or jobs or higher wages and salaries,” he said.