Prime Minister Godwin Friday has revealed that he has not yet taken up residence at the official Prime Minister’s Residence, citing the building’s poor condition and its current unsuitability for living.
The disclosure was made during a live interview on Hot 97.1 SVG on Tuesday, where the Prime Minister explained that while he intends to occupy the residence, significant repairs are required before it can be deemed habitable.
Dr. Friday emphasized that the official residence is public property, belonging to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and should therefore be maintained at a standard appropriate to the office of Prime Minister. He noted, however, that the building is presently not in a condition suitable for occupancy and requires extensive remedial work.
According to the Prime Minister, an assessment of the property will be undertaken, with the BRAGSA expected to evaluate the structure and determine the scope and cost of the necessary repairs.
Dr. Friday said he was surprised by the condition of the residence, particularly in light of what he described as years of substantial public expenditure reportedly allocated for its maintenance and upgrading. While acknowledging that the exterior of the building remains attractive and that the surrounding grounds are well maintained, he stressed that the interior is in need of significant attention.
The Prime Minister added that the residence should ultimately be restored as a proper and welcoming space—one that reflects national pride and is suitable for both living and official engagements.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that public assets are properly managed and maintained in a manner that serves the best interests of the Vincentian people.
