Are we serious about the role of God in directing our country and lives?

by Hon. Arnhim U. Eustace, President of the New Democratic Party and Leader of the Opposition

In a few days, the people of our country will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of this nation.

This celebration will take place at a time in our history when we are in the throes of a recession in our economy, at a time when many persons have lost and continue to lose jobs, at a time when heinous crimes continue, at a time when our major financial institution is in trouble, at a time when many of our people are losing hope and struggling to survive.{{more}}

It is surely not a pretty picture on this 30th Anniversary.

Importantly, we are also in the throes of a debate on our constitution and understandably it engages a lot of our time and attention. Many of our people are passionate about this issue and I expect that the debate will get even more attention on the next few weeks and as we all know will culminate in a Referendum on November 25th.

However, whatever the outcome, the Constitution will have no significant effect on the state of our economy and our standard of living in the near future. These can only at this time be addressed by prudent policies and good management and this is the case not only for the public sector but also the private sector. This has to be addressed with the recognition that we live in an interdependent world and our independence must be seen in that context and this should be reflected in both our domestic and foreign policy.

As we look to the future, the medium to long-term future of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, what do we envisage? I see a St. Vincent and the Grenadines managed by an administration which pays more than lip service to the preamble of the Constitution which recognizes the Supremacy of God in all we do and say. This will be a powerful example to all our people as we tackle crime and many of the social ills in our society. It would help to encourage all our institutions to strive to do better. It will affect the thinking of our leaders and their approach to governance in a positive way. It will help empower our people to view themselves as full participants in the governance of our country and renew the direction of our thoughts.

If our attitudes can be changed for the better then our performance at every level can improve – If our individual performances improve our country in all aspects will improve and division and dissatisfaction will decline considerably. But are we really serious about the role of God in directing our country and our lives? That question requires an individual answer from each and every one of us here in St .Vincent and the Grenadines. Are we prepared to do this and change St. Vincent and the Grenadines for all time?