Weeks after the Unity Labour Party (ULP) lost the November 27 general elections in St Vincent and the Grenadines, many Vincentians are still asking one central question: how much money was actually left in the treasury?
The question has been raised across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with much of the discussion taking place on social media, as well as in everyday conversations. Many Vincentians say they simply want to know what was left in the treasury and note that, so far, the newly elected NDP government has not released a public report outlining the state of the country’s finances.
One retired public servant told Cliplet News that when a new government takes office, it is normal for the country’s finances to be reviewed and clearly documented. “That’s how accountability works,” the former public servant said.
Debt has also been a major concern for many Vincentians. After more than two decades of ULP administrations, the country has accumulated significant debt from a range of sources, including Taiwan and other international partners. In recent public discussions, figures as high as EC$800 million linked to Taiwan borrowing have been mentioned, further fueling calls for a clear and official breakdown of the country’s debt obligations.
Some concerned citizens and business owners say that the lack of clear information about the country’s finances is making it difficult to plan and build confidence. One contractor told Cliplet News that uncertainty around government finances often leads to hesitation in taking on new work, adding that “you can’t plan properly if you don’t know what the situation really is.”
For many Vincentians, the issue goes beyond party politics or election results. It is about accountability and trust in public institutions. As one resident put it simply, “We voted, now we just want to know the truth about the money.”
