The views expressed herein are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of One News SVG. Opinion pieces can be sent to us at onenewsstvincent@gmail.com
Whenever a government changes, it requires time to assess the financial situation, implement administrative adjustments, and make policy decisions.
If promises made on the campaign trail cannot be fulfilled immediately, the new government will likely resort to the golden excuse that the treasury is bare, so they cannot meet some promises, or at least not yet.
Much like a captain navigating stormy seas, governments may face internal and external challenges that shift where finances must be directed. Since 2001, this country has endured more than ten natural disasters and a global economic crisis, all of which have disrupted the realisation of pledges.
At present, the Caribbean sits on the precipice of uncertainty, with a potential conflict looming between the USA and Venezuela, with Trinidad caught in the middle. Such a war could have ripple effects on oil prices, which in turn impact our economy. Moreover, tourism revenues could be affected as commercial airlines become reluctant to fly through increasingly dangerous airspace.
On Election Day, Vincentians face a clear choice between the safe harbour of certainty and the murky waters of uncertainty.
It is the difference between seeing your salary safely credited to your bank at the end of the month or wondering if it will arrive on time, or at all.
Plans to reduce VAT and pay double salaries make this choice even more vivid: certainty versus doubt.
It is the choice between knowing that your tuition scholarship will be paid in full, allowing you to complete your studies, or fearing that it may be withdrawn, leaving your education hanging in the balance.
Politicians can assure us otherwise, but talk is as cheap as promises unkept. It is wiser to anchor ourselves to what we know than to drift into the valley of uncertainty.
Should another storm strike, the choice lies between the certainty of rebuilding or repairing your home, or facing the unknown of what might come next.
Jobs for our youth are scarce, yet the choice is between the certainty of new Sandals hotels and other developments versus the uncertainties surrounding the port, the hospital, and privatisation of key services that could impact government revenue and public welfare.
Our youth in the creative arts dream and work hard, becoming cultural ambassadors. We know cultural and creative hubs are on the horizon, but there remains the fear that all may be swept away.
Therefore, in this election, amid a Caribbean sea of uncertainty, my vote will be cast for certainty. Stability over chaos, knowledge over guesswork, the shore over the storm.
I will be voting for the star.
By S. Francois
One News SVG 