Dr. Godwin Friday Sworn in as Prime Minister

A photograph showing Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday (left) during the swearing-in ceremony. The image was obtained from Dr. Friday’s official Facebook page.

By Val Matthias. Updated 3:14 p.m., Saturday, November 29, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Dr. Godwin Friday was officially sworn in on Friday, November 28, 2025, as the fifth Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, following the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) historic landslide victory in the general elections. In his inaugural address, delivered before Governor General Dame Susan Dougan, senior officials, and members of the public, Dr. Friday pledged to serve as a leader for all Vincentians, emphasizing unity, upliftment, and transformation.

Commitment to Unity Dr. Friday vowed to govern for all citizens, rejecting partisan divisions and calling for collective effort to uplift communities. He described the nation’s population as “precious, not small,” urging Vincentians to pool resources and intellect for the common good. He promised major changes, not incremental reforms, focusing on raising living standards, moral values, and opportunities for families. His government will prioritize tackling the most serious challenges identified during the campaign.

Dr. Friday credited his strength to God and his family, thanking his wife and children for their support. He pledged to rely on prayer and resilience in moments of difficulty. Dr. Friday announced that his Cabinet will be revealed next week, with ministers set to begin implementing the NDP’s agenda immediately.

This election marks a political turning point in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, CARICOM’s longest-serving head of government, had sought a sixth consecutive term but was decisively rejected by voters. Dr. Friday’s victory ends nearly a quarter century of ULP dominance and signals a strong want for change across the nation.

The NDP secured 14 of the 15 parliamentary seats, ending the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) 25-year rule under Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Only Gonsalves retained his seat, marking the most significant electoral defeat for the ULP since 2001. Official figures from the Electoral Office show the NDP won 57.6% of the popular vote (37,002 votes) compared to the ULP’s 42.3% (27,148 votes), with voter turnout at 62.3%

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