The New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Godwin Friday, secured a majority in Parliament, winning at least 11 of the 15 seats up for grabs, according to preliminary official results reported by the Electoral Commission.

The victory makes Friday the seventh prime minister of the Caribbean nation since its independence in 1979, marking a generational and political shift after the dominance of Gonsalves, who governed uninterruptedly since 2001.

The result represents a setback for the career of Gonsalves, a prominent figure in regional politics. His party conceded defeat following the overwhelming trend in the results.

“The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines have spoken. Today, we have set a new course for our nation,” Friday declared in his first speech as prime minister-elect before a jubilant crowd.

“My government will work tirelessly to unite the country and address the economic and social challenges we face,” he affirmed.

Friday’s agenda, promised during the campaign, focuses on economic recovery, job creation, improving the healthcare system, and combating poverty.

abo/arm/ro/ohh