There is a new government in St. George's.
After 13 years of being in opposition, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by its Political Leader, Tillman Thomas swept the polls by winning a comfortable 11 seats, leaving the incumbent New National Party (NNP) with a mere four seats.
NDC party supporters took to the streets nationwide in celebration of the victory that they have been longing for since 2003 when the NDC came close to winning the general elections.
Many of the people were openly saying "The Change Is Here, Free At Last, and We Throw Jonah Overboard."
But the biggest celebration came when the Prime Minister-elect Tillman Thomas made his appearance at the Morne Rouge Playing Field before a large enthusiastic gathering.
In his first public address to supporters after leading the party to its first clear win at the polls, Thomas indicated that the victory is one for Grenada."The National Democratic Congress is the vehicle, but the real victory is for you the people," the new prime minister said.
Thomas spoke of his party's victory bringing a new beginning for each citizen and that after 13 years of NNP in power, "the time has come for us to begin a new page."
Thomas whose pet subject is governance and integrity in public life reiterated the need for his government to undertake those principles.
This is an opportunity, he said for his government to bring good governance to the people of Grenada.
The Prime Minister gave an early signal that there will be a new approach to governance that encompasses recognition and respect to the people of Grenada.
"We must bring an end to political victimisation. We must respect and recognise our people, and promote our people based on merit, we should not discriminate," he said.
Prime Minister Thomas also said his government will work in partnership with the private sector, Non-Governmental Organisations, Labour Unions, and other interest groups in the society.
He admonished the party faithful not to squander the opportunity that is now before them. He invited them to make maximum use of the opportunity by working together with each other.
"Show the people of Grenada there could be a government without corruption, without victimisation. We believe in the brotherhood of man, and we have to govern for the benefit of all the citizens of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique," he remarked.
The new Prime Minister also spoke about the separation of government from party.
He said whatever the State of Grenada will sponsor would be for each one as "this is a government of the people and a government for the people."
Prime Minister Thomas encouraged the people to monitor their performance and behaviour in government.
"Once we are going off track, you must point it out to us," he said.
