Ralph Gonsalves, the head of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), announced on Wednesday that an emerging “governance crisis” is creating the conditions under which his party can return to office in the fastest possible time.
Speaking on Star Radio, Gonsalves cited a “labor resurgence,” as well as widespread discontent with the current New Democratic Party (NDP) administration, as evidence that there will soon be a significant change in the country’s politics.
Gonsalves told listeners that the nation is currently in a “state of crisis,” which is manifested in all aspects of society — economically, in terms of national security, and in terms of overall government administration.
He called the present administration “on autopilot,” and contended that those leading it were “unaware of the full nature of the condition” into which they had allowed their nation to deteriorate over a relatively short period of time.
The current administration, according to Gonsalves, also “has no knowledge of how to proceed” with respect to a number of complex issues affecting the nation.
The ULP leader discussed what he characterized as a highly productive “national council meeting,” during which there was an extremely large attendance from public employees, teachers, and police personnel. Gonsalves claimed that this represented “the might and influence of the labor family,” and indicated that it has left the present administration “dazed and frightened.”
Gonsalves also reported that many of the strongest supporters of the NDP are now predicting that this government will be limited to one term, and may actually leave office before its term officially ends.
“Grown men and women need to stand up when they’ve made mistakes, and say ‘I made a mistake,'” Gonsalves said about the current administration. “The only option available is the Unity Labour Party,” he continued, noting that increasing numbers of citizens are coming to visit the party headquarters, and writing to him for guidance.
Gonsalves stressed that “the roots of labor are very strong,” and that the party is prepared to offer the type of leadership he believes is presently absent.
Speaking directly to the concerns of ordinary citizens, Gonsalves assured them that “labour has your back,” and urged supporters to act in a spirit of solidarity.
He said that the current “fear-mongering” and “intimidation” of civil servants by the administration would ultimately fail to slow down the momentum building behind his party, because “people are getting less afraid” to associate themselves publicly with it.
Although Gonsalves continues to be involved actively in both international affairs and activities related to regional organizations, he clearly indicated that his primary concern right now is focused on “the resurgence” of the ULP locally.
He acknowledged that he does not know who will be the Prime Minister by this time next year; however, he felt that given the current level of disorganization within the administration, it is becoming increasingly probable for a swift ULP return.