Recently, lawyer, journalist and social commentator Jomo Thomas stated that the New Democratic Party (NDP) administration, led by Godwin Friday, urgently needs a communications professional. Many people have been thinking the same thing, and it is long past time someone said it plainly.
The moment for polite silence has passed. This government needs to hear some hard truths before more credibility slips away. In just five months, the public has witnessed a troubling number of communication blunders, mixed messages, overreach, and outright misinformation coming from various members of the administration. On their own, these incidents may seem minor. Together, they form a pattern—one that the celebratory glow of Nov. 27, 2025, can no longer hide.
As the six‑month mark approaches, Vincentians still do not have a clear understanding of the government’s direction. If this observation offends some supporters, so be it. The reality is that for many citizens, too much of what we see feels like a continuation of the previous administration’s policies, behaviours, and style. So little has changed that people are now openly questioning the point of such a decisive electoral victory.
Early on, critics suggested that the NDP had campaigned hard but was unprepared for the demands of governance. Some defended them, arguing that a learning curve was expected. But learning curves require humility, discipline, and action — not stubbornness or complacency.
Instead, it appears that too many individuals believe they already know what they are doing and do not need guidance. The results speak for themselves.
There are persistent whispers that Deputy Prime Minister St. Clair Leacock is the de facto prime minister. While many dismiss this, the government’s own communication does little to counter the perception. Increasingly, the public sees the prime minister only in light, feel‑good appearances — school visits, sports events, and photo‑friendly moments. The Office of the Prime Minister is not a social‑media prop. It demands visibility, seriousness, and leadership.
The press secretary, though reportedly hardworking during the campaign, does not appear to have the training or experience required to manage government‑level communication. This is not a personal attack; it is a recognition of a critical professional gap. Campaign clips and national communication are not the same thing.
People once complained that Ralph Gonsalves was everywhere, but one thing was certain: the public always knew where his administration stood. There was a clear leader, and the Cabinet followed. No one is asking for a return to that style, but leadership requires clarity. If Friday is leading effectively behind the scenes, the public cannot see it — and perception matters.
A professional communications strategist is urgently needed. Not just for social media, but to coordinate messaging across the API, NBC Radio, VC3, and other government channels. Without this, the administration will continue to look unfocused, reactive, and divided.
The initial excitement of the VAT‑free day and the partial reinstatement of public servants has faded. What has the government done since to signal meaningful change? What is the plan? Who is steering the ship?
The NDP must wake up to the reality that governance and politics are inseparable. Their re‑election will depend not only on fulfilling their duties but also on how they communicate, how they lead, and how they manage public perception.
It is time to get serious. It is time to act. Otherwise, this administration risks becoming exactly what many now fear — a one‑term government.
S. Smith
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