Lewis Warns “Dual Citizenship Could Void Election Results in SVG”

A photograph of lawyer and former political figure Dr. Linton Lewis.

By Val Matthias. Updated 10:48 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Lawyer and former political figure Dr. Linton Lewis has cautioned that St. Vincent and the Grenadines could face a constitutional crisis if candidates contest the upcoming general elections while holding dual citizenship or allegiance to another country.

Lewis pointed to Section 26 of the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which disqualifies individuals from serving as Members of Parliament if they are “by virtue of their own act, under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state.” He stressed that this provision is clear and binding, and any breach could invalidate election results.

The warning comes amid growing scrutiny of candidates in the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Dr. Godwin Friday. In particular, questions have been raised about East Kingstown candidate Fitzgerald Bramble, whose past ties abroad have sparked debate over whether he meets constitutional requirements.

Lewis argued that the issue is not simply political but a matter of law. He warned that if a candidate is elected while in breach of the Constitution, their victory could be declared void, triggering disqualification and legal battles that would destabilize governance.

“The crisis is real and imminent,” Lewis said, urging the Electoral Office and political parties to verify candidate eligibility before nominations are finalized. He cautioned that failure to act responsibly could erode public trust and drag the country into protracted court disputes.

Dr. Linton Lewis served as Chairman of the New Democratic Party (NDP) for several years. He contested elections in the East St. George constituency in the 2010 general election but was unsuccessful. After that defeat, he gradually stepped back from frontline politics.

As the November 27 polls approach, Lewis’ intervention has sharpened public debate on constitutional safeguards and heightened pressure on the opposition to address lingering questions about candidate qualifications.

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