ST GEORGE’S – Leader of the main opposition New National Party (NNP), Dr Keith Mitchell, has announced he will be stepping down from the position that he has held since June 2022.
In that year, the NNP, then the incumbent, lost the election 9-6 and he took the oath of office to be Leader of the Opposition days after the Dickon Mitchell administration became the government.
“I have officially relinquished the role as the Leader of His Majesty’s Opposition, effective February 21, 2025. I submitted my letter informing the Governor General Dame Cecile La Grenade of my decision,” Mitchell said in a news release disseminated yesterday morning.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and believe it is time for new leadership to guide the party and the opposition forward. My commitment to the people of Grenada remains unwavering, and I will continue to serve as the Member of Parliament for St George North West,” the former prime minister said.
“I fully support her leadership and have every confidence in her ability to lead with strength, empathy and deep love for the people of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique,” said the release which announced that Emmalin Pierre, who became the first female political leader of the NNP last December, will assume the role of Leader of the Opposition.
A post on her Facebook page confirmed she has accepted the role.
“As I step into the role
of Leader of His Majesty’s Opposition, I do so with a deep sense of responsibility and an unwavering commitment to continuing the work of advocating for the needs of our citizens,” she said.
“I pledge to uphold the values of integrity, service and dedication that you have exemplified throughout your career. With the support of our team, our party and, most importantly, the people of Grenada, we will continue to stand firm in defence of their interests, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met,” said the post which expressed gratitude and paid tribute to Mitchell.
“Dr Mitchell, your leadership has been a guiding light and your counsel will remain invaluable as we forge ahead. On behalf of the people of Grenada and the New National Party, we thank you for your selfless service and unwavering dedication,” she posted.
This is the second time that a female has been appointed Leader of the Opposition in Grenada’s House of Representatives. The first was Winnifred Strachan who served between 1991 and 1995.
(CMC)
