Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves described the current state of his personal security as an “unresolved” issue.
On Monday, Gonsalves said the need for protection is not merely a personal preference, but as a matter of “common decency” and a critical “state necessity”.
Gonsalves argued that after serving as Prime Minister for nearly 25 years, he possesses a vast amount of sensitive information regarding national security, intelligence, and confidential “things between states” that are not officially documented.
He emphasized that any “sensible nation” would want to ensure a former leader is protected so that no external parties can coerce or pressure them into revealing classified information.
“In civilized nations, it is standard practice to offer appropriate protection to former Governors-General and Prime Ministers”.
Gonsalves also touched on his personal character to refute public portrayals of him as a “beast”. He revealed that he had personally spent approximately $540,000 over three years (15,000 per month) to provide nursing care for his brother, arguing that this demonstrated his commitment to his family and responsibilities.