An outspoken local Clergyman, Pastor Stanford Simon has called for the Government of Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell to be held responsible for the deteriorating economic situation in which Grenada now finds itself.

In one of his recent radio programmes entitled "Today's Sermon," Pastor Simon who is associated with the Grenada Baptist Faith at Springs said the current government is to be blamed for the economic depression being felt by Grenadians.

On a daily basis Grenadians of every walks of life are openly heard complaining about the constant rise in basic commodities at supermarkets and shops. Over the weekend, there was another increase in the cost of flour.

Pastor Simon accused Mitchell's ruling New National Party (NNP) administration of mismanaging the local economy. He recalled that when the regime came into office  in 1995, the country's debt was around the $300 million mark but now it is over EC$1.5 billion.

"Our debt has increased significantly, and not because of good management. This government has managed this country badly... You may not want to accept it, but our government must be held responsible." he said. Pastor Simon stated that once the economy is being mismanaged it will automatically affect  citizens.

"You (NNP) as government are not managing the economy properly so it is affecting me, it is affecting my children, it is affecting my company, and it is affecting my business. And you expect me to vote (for) you and put you back in power. You lie!" he told the listening audience.

"I am sure this Church would fire Stanford Simon if he is mismanaging this Church. Therefore, hold the government to the same standard... We need to stand up and say enough is enough," he added. The Mitchell government has often criticised the clergyman for preaching political sermons.