A ten-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has been deployed to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to observe the upcoming General Elections scheduled for November 27, 2025. Leading this crucial mission is Mr. Sase R. Gunraj, a Commissioner on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The deployment follows a formal invitation extended by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on October 2, 2025, underscoring the region’s commitment to transparent and democratic electoral processes.
The mission, which will operate from November 20 to November 29, 2025, aims to observe the entire electoral cycle. This includes assessing the pre-election environment, monitoring the conduct of Election Day activities, and observing the immediate post-election period. This comprehensive approach is designed to foster confidence in the electoral integrity and to provide an independent assessment of the process. CARICOM has a longstanding tradition of supporting democratic governance within its member states through such observation missions, recognizing their vital role in promoting stability and public trust.
Mission Composition and Mandate
Commissioner Sase Gunraj heads a diverse team comprised of senior electoral officials and parliamentary representatives drawn from seven CARICOM Member States. These include Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Providing essential administrative and logistical support are three members from the CARICOM Secretariat. The core group of the mission, including Gunraj and secretariat staff, arrived in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on November 20, with the remaining observers expected by November 23.
The mandate of the CARICOM Election Observation Mission is clearly defined. It involves observing the electoral process from preparations to the final tabulation of results. This typically includes monitoring the opening of polling stations, the casting and counting of ballots, and the transmission of results. The mission also engages with key stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the political climate and operational readiness. A preliminary statement will be released before the mission’s departure on November 29, followed by a detailed final report submitted to the CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, and subsequently made public. This report often includes recommendations for strengthening future electoral processes.
Background and St. Vincent and the Grenadines Election Context
The upcoming general elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are highly anticipated, with the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), led by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, seeking an unprecedented sixth consecutive term in office. The main opposition is the New Democratic Party (NDP), headed by Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday, which aims to regain governance. A total of 32 candidates are contesting the 21 seats in the House of Assembly, including one independent candidate. The elections are largely seen as a direct contest between the ULP and the NDP.
Recent reports indicate a close race, with a national psephological survey suggesting a narrow lead for the ULP. The campaign has seen specific issues arise, including challenges to the eligibility of some NDP candidates based on acquired foreign citizenship. Additionally, discussions about diversity in political representation have emerged, noting the continued male dominance in candidate selection despite efforts to include more women. The economic performance and youth unemployment are also identified as significant factors influencing voter sentiment.
Engagement with Stakeholders
Since their arrival, the CARICOM observers have actively engaged with a wide range of stakeholders. Meetings have been held with political figures such as Honourable Daniel Cummings of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Dr. Doris Frederick of the National Liberation Movement (NLM). The mission has also connected with representatives from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Union, the Voice of the Disabled, and members of the media.
In the days leading up to the election, the mission is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Supervisor of Elections Ms. Dora James, and Commissioner of Police Mr. Enville Williams. These consultations are crucial for assessing the pre-election atmosphere and evaluating the operational readiness of the electoral machinery. Engaging with these key individuals, alongside other political actors and civil society groups, provides the CEOM with a holistic view of the electoral landscape.
Sase Gunraj’s Leadership and CARICOM’s Role
Sase Gunraj’s appointment as Chief of Mission highlights his extensive experience in electoral matters. As a Commissioner on GECOM, he has been involved in the complexities of managing elections in Guyana and is well-versed in the challenges and best practices of electoral observation. His leadership is critical in guiding the CEOM team in its impartial assessment. CARICOM’s commitment to election observation is a cornerstone of its regional integration efforts, promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across the community. These missions not only observe elections but also contribute to the strengthening of democratic institutions and the sharing of electoral stories and experiences throughout the Caribbean.
The presence of the CEOM in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a testament to the value placed on democratic principles and the shared responsibility within the Caribbean community to ensure that elections are conducted freely, fairly, and transparently. The mission’s findings will be instrumental in providing an independent evaluation that can contribute to the ongoing development of democratic practices in the region.