Mitchell gets narrow victory in Grenada vote

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell on his way to 
vote earlier today (Photo: Norman 'Gus' Thomas)

Friday, November 28, 2003

ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada (AFP): The New National Party led by Prime Minister Keith Mitchell was narrowly returned to power in elections Thursday in Grenada.

Preliminary returns from the general election found that the NNP had won eight of the 15 parliamentary seats, while the main opposition National Democratic Party headed by Tillman Thomas captured seven. 

A recount is taking place in two electoral districts because of the closeness of the results.

In the previous election in 1999, the NNP took control of all 15 seats, however Michael Baptiste had, during that period, left the Government and became the leader of the Opposition. He since joined the GULP on whose ticket he contested the elections this week.

Thursday's results represent a setback for Mitchell, even though he retained his St. George's West constituency. A spokesman for the NNP said the party is not in a comfort zone with these results but noted that the people have spoken.

Mitchell's economic policy over the past five years was the subject of harsh criticism from opponents during the election campaign. The prime minister brought elections forward by nine months.

Voter turnout Thursday was high according to election officials, amid calm balloting. Police said there were no major incidents.

Prime Minister Keith Mitchell is expected to address the nation shortly.

ELECTION RESULTS

New National Party (NNP)- 19,250 votes
National Democratic Congress (NDC ) - 17,243 votes
Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) - 1,221 votes
Good Old Democracy (GOD) - 6 votes
Grenada Renaissance - 5 votes
People Labour Movement - 834 votes
Combined Independents - 28 votes

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