Former Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has pushed back against criticism surrounding the security personnel seen accompanying him during recent walk-throughs of his North Central Windward constituency.
Videos circulated online show Gonsalves moving through communities with at least two members of his former prime ministerial security detail, sparking commentary—particularly from voices aligned with the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).
Speaking on Star Radio, Gonsalves made it clear that the arrangement is not new, nor is it a personal request.
“I understand that when I was walking about and there were a couple of security officers with me, that attracted some criticism from some persons from the NDP base,” he said. “The fact of the matter is that there was a cabinet decision a long time ago providing for precisely this—for former prime ministers and former governors-general.”
According to Gonsalves, the policy was established early in the Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration, outlining what levels of security and support would be extended to former national leaders.
He added that a three-member committee had been set up to review and oversee these provisions, and that both the government and the opposition leadership were fully aware of what had been “offered and accepted” over the years.
“The NDP leadership knows about what had been offered and what had been accepted, and what the situation is for both Sir James, and also my brother Arnhim,” Gonsalves said. “So I don’t need to speak publicly about those things—certainly not at this time.”
Gonsalves argued that much of the public chatter is driven by misinformation and emotion rather than facts.
“A lot of people are talking out of ignorance and wanting some kind of revenge. Revenge for what, I don’t know,” he said.
While Gonsalves did not rule out addressing the matter in greater detail, he indicated that any further public explanation would come “at some future date.”
