Opposition Leader Declares Himself “Father of the House” After 32 Years 

By Val Matthias. Updated 3:12 p.m., Thursday, January 29, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Leader of the Opposition Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, responding to Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday’s remarks in the House of Assembly, used the occasion to reflect on his decades of service and his new role in Parliament. 

Dr. Gonsalves, who has represented North Central Windward since 1994, reminded colleagues that next month will mark his 32nd consecutive year in the House of Assembly.

“In that regard, Madam Speaker, I not only can be your father, but I’m the father of the House, given the longevity,” he said. 

The former Prime Minister, who served nearly 25 years in office, rejected suggestions that he would retreat from public life after the election. Instead, he pledged to embrace his new role as Opposition Leader with “duty, dignity, and love.” He thanked the more than 27,000 electors who supported him in the recent general election and noted that his constituency had returned him once again.

Dr. Gonsalves formally took the Oath of Declaration and Oath of Allegiance earlier in the sitting, affirming that he was “truly and bona fide qualified” to serve and swearing to uphold the Constitution and laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The ceremony showed his continued legitimacy and commitment to public service, even as he transitions from Prime Minister to Opposition Leader.

Dr. Gonsalves also congratulated the newly appointed Attorney General Ms Louise Mitchell, recalling his friendship with her late father Sir James Mitchell and stressing the importance of continuity in public service. His remarks reinforced both his personal connection to the institution and his determination to remain an active voice in national politics. 

By declaring himself the “father of the House,” the Opposition Leader positioned his experience as a stabilizing force in a period of political transition, signalling that he intends to play a central role in shaping debates despite no longer holding the office of Prime Minister. 

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