The windshield of a police pick-up truck was damaged during a stone-throwing incident in Rillan Hill as the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) held a whistle stop on Sunday.
iWitness News was reliably informed that police have taken two men from the village into custody in connection with the incident.
Sources in the know said that the stones were targeted at a truck carrying NDP supporters to a party event in Penniston.
In addition to striking the truck, the stones hit the windshield of the police vehicle, damaging it.
NDP Public Relations Officer, Lavern King, condemned the incident in a social media video on Sunday.
She said the whistle stop was organised by the NDP’s Nigel “Nature” Stephenson, who is seeking a fourth term as MP for South Leeward.
King said that what should have been “a peaceful and enjoyable thing went wrong because members of the other side decided that they were going to throw stones at the people who were participating.
“What that did is that it broke the windscreen of the truck that was being used. Lives could be taken,” King said.
“We are aware that the other side has been saying that their warriors must be on guard, but this is not the type of politics that we want to introduce in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” King said.
“We are asking persons and appealing to those on the other side to let us have a peaceful campaign. That is the democracy that we want. And when victory comes on the 27th of November, you are welcome to celebrate with us. This should not be an election that is marked by any form of violence. We can do better than this.”
The incident occurred in an area of Rillan Hill where gunshots were discharged as the NDP supporters were on their way to an event during the campaign for the 2020 general election.
The incident occurred five days after the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) reinforced an earlier call for peace and responsible conduct during election season.
“The RSVGPF reminds the public that this period calls for calm and thoughtful conduct, particularly in how opinions are shared and disagreements managed. Every Vincentian has a role in protecting the democratic process through measured words and responsible actions,” the police said in a Nov. 4 statement.
It said the force continues to promote a climate of cooperation and reason, noting that the choices made by individuals (both in public and private spaces) can either strengthen unity or sow division.
“Vincentians are encouraged to act with patience, understanding, and restraint to preserve the harmony that defines the nation.”
The constabulary said it had received reports of damage to campaign material in some areas.
“The RSVGPF is reminding persons that such behaviour undermines the democracy and may amount to an offence under the Criminal Code (Cap. 124). Section 267 provides that “any person who, without lawful excuse, destroys or damages any property belonging to another intending to destroy or damage such property, or being reckless as to whether such property would be destroyed or damaged, is guilty of an offence.”
The force said it also observed rising political tension and urged everyone to prevent disagreements from turning hostile.
“All reports of threats, intimidation, or violence will be investigated swiftly and impartially, and offenders prosecuted according to law.”
Police also encouraged political parties to continue promoting calm among their supporters and to reinforce messages of respect for opposing views.
“The example set by leaders can go a long way in keeping the campaign atmosphere peaceful.”
The RSVGPF also reminded citizens that the Representation of the People Act addresses election-related offences, including the use of threats, violence, or disorderly conduct to influence or disrupt the democratic process.
“The RSVGPF remains impartial and committed to maintaining order and safety throughout the election period, and asks for the continued cooperation of all citizens in ensuring that St. Vincent and the Grenadines demonstrates maturity, respect, and pride as Election Day approaches,” the statement said.
Oh no! ” I will make this place ungovernable” comes to mind!
This is what happens when the ULP supporters are incited by Gonsalves to come out on the streets as warriors. The definition of a warrior is a person or persons who fight opposing sides and go into battle under the instruction of their leader. A warrior will even kill for their leader. As such, Gonsalves named these people warriors; he is therefore inviting people to come onto the street and physically fight. Gonsalves is a man that knows exactly what he says means, so there can be no denial on his part to the meaning of the term. I am calling on the police once again to arrest Ralph Gonsalves for inciting violence. He is also breaking the law by causing alarm and distress to NDP and all decent people. He has caused me alarm and distress, and he has incited violence on the streets. It would be appropriate if I witness opened a page where people can complain to the police and demand the arrest of Dr Ralph E Gonsalves.
Just by naming them warriors is an incitement.