Opposition Leader Gonsalves Weighs Attendance at First Sitting of New Parliament 

By Val Matthias. Updated 8:28 p.m., Thursday, December 11, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

Opposition Leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has signalled uncertainty over whether he will attend the ceremonial opening of Parliament following last month’s general elections. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Gonsalves told reporters that he has placed the matter under “prayerful consideration” and has not yet decided if he will take the oath of allegiance on the first day or at a later sitting.  

Under the Constitution, the first meeting of Parliament must be held within 30 days of the return of the election writ. The opening session is largely ceremonial, with newly elected members required to take the oath of allegiance before participating in substantive debates. Gonsalves emphasized that this formality can be completed either on the first day or at any subsequent sitting, leaving room for flexibility in his decision.  

“Whether or not I attend on the first day, which is entirely formal, is something I am considering. The oath can be taken then or later,” Gonsalves explained.  

This hesitation comes at a time of transition in St. Vincent and the Grenadines politics. The Unity Labour Party, which Gonsalves led for over two decades, secured only one seat in the November 27 general election, while the New Democratic Party under Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday won a decisive majority.  

The parliamentary process confirms that attendance at the first sitting is not mandatory for members to retain their seats. The oath of allegiance, however, must be taken before any member can contribute to debates or cast votes. Historically, opposition leaders have attended the opening session to signal continuity of parliamentary tradition, though absences are not unprecedented.   

The ceremonial opening of Parliament is expected to take place before the end of December, in keeping with constitutional timelines. Whether Gonsalves attends or defers his oath-taking will be closely watched as a signal of how heintends to position himself in the new political landscape.  

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