by Linda Straker
The next time the Lower House of Parliament meets for a session, there will be a new Leader of the Opposition because the Rt Hon. Dr Keith Mitchell has transitioned out of that role, which he held following the June 2022 general election.
His New National Party (NNP), which was the incumbent, lost that election 9–6 and he took the oath of office to be Leader of the Opposition days after Dickon Mitchell’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) 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 Cécile La Grenade of my decision,” Dr Mitchell said in a news release disseminated on Friday 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,” said the release.
“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 & Petite Martinique,” said the release, which announced that Hon Emmalin Pierre, who became the first female Political Leader of the NNP in December 2024 will assume the role of Leader of the Opposition.
A post on her Facebook page confirmed that she had accepted the role to be the second female to be the Leader of the Opposition in the Parliament. “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 paid gratitude and tribute to Dr 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 will be the second time that a female is the Leader of the Opposition in Grenada’s House of Representatives, and on both occasions, it is the MP of St Andrew South East. The first was Hon. Winifred Strachan who served between 1991–1995.
