Prime Minister Godwin Friday speaking at the installation ceremony for the new Governor General, Stanley Kendrick John, focused on the historical significance of the day, a tribute to the outgoing Governor General, and a pledge regarding his own administration’s mandate.
The Prime Minister described the day as a “great day” for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, characterized by a transition of constitutional leadership.
Friday expressed the nation’s gratitude to the outgoing Governor General, Dame Susan Dougan, for her “wonderful,” “enduring,” and “outstanding” public service. He noted that she leaves the role with the well-wishes of a “grateful nation” as she embarks on a new journey.
Friday spoke at length about the qualifications and character of Stanley John, highlighting both his professional expertise and his personal integrity.
He recognized John as an “excellent barrister and solicitor” and a distinguished King’s Counsel who practiced with the “highest standards of our noble profession”.
Friday acknowledged that John was no stranger to the “rough and tumble of national politics,” where he consistently gave his best to his country, stating that it was his “immense good fortune” to call John a “friend of longstanding,” having benefited from his generosity and wisdom over many years.
Friday described John as a “son of the soil” whose love for the nation “knows no bounds,” expressing full confidence that he would serve as an exemplary head of state.