St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has accused the opposition New Democratic Party of flying in eight Trinidadian lawyers and activists to meddle with the upcoming general election, threatening criminal charges for anyone working without proper permits. The 79-year-old leader, whose Unity Labour Party is pursuing a sixth straight term in office, warned the foreign operatives they would be barred from polling stations and must comply with immigration law or face prosecution.
Gonsalves publicly identified the individuals by name during a youth rally, dismissing claims they were simply volunteering by noting that accommodation and meals constitute payment under local statutes. He thanked Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for disavowing any United National Congress involvement but questioned why party backers would interfere, suggesting ulterior motives centered on land acquisition and hospital privatization. The ruling party currently holds nine of 15 parliamentary seats.
Gonsalves publicly identified the individuals by name during a youth rally, dismissing claims they were simply volunteering by noting that accommodation and meals constitute payment under local statutes. He thanked Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for disavowing any United National Congress involvement but questioned why party backers would interfere, suggesting ulterior motives centered on land acquisition and hospital privatization. The ruling party currently holds nine of 15 parliamentary seats.
