Here is a useful summary of the election activity expected in 2025, by The Caribbean Camera newspaper.
2025 is set to be a significant year for politics across the Caribbean, as several countries prepare for General Elections. Major CARICOM nations such as Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana, Suriname, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will command regional attention as voters decide whether to retain current administrations or usher in change.
Governments in these countries have faced numerous challenges, including the ongoing impact of COVID-19, rising gun violence, natural disasters, and the ever-present threat of climate change.
Here’s a quick look at where elections are due:
Confirmed Election Dates:
Bermuda: February 18, 2025
Premier David Burt of the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) surprised many by announcing the election date just weeks into the new year. The last election was in August 2020.Turks and Caicos Islands: February 7, 2025
Approximately 10,000 voters will make history as this will be the first five-year parliamentary term instead of the usual four. The Progressive National Party (PNP) aims to retain power.Curacao: March 21, 2025
The Dutch Caribbean island will hold its Parliamentary elections with over 110,000 eligible voters. Curacao became an associate CARICOM member in 2024 under Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas. The last election was in 2021.Suriname: May 25, 2025
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi has set May 25 as the election date, following recent electoral reforms. The previous election also took place on May 25, 2020.Awaiting Election Dates:
Anguilla
No date has been set, but campaign preparations are underway. The ruling Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM) led by Dr. Ellis Webster is gearing up for January campaign launches.Belize
Prime Minister John Briceno has yet to announce an election date, while the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) continues to struggle with internal divisions. Belize last voted in November 2020.Guyana
Though no official date has been set, indications point to a possible November 2025 election. President Irfaan Ali, who was elected in 2020, continues to oversee a rapidly growing economy, driven largely by oil production and diversification in the non-oil sector.Jamaica
With the People’s National Party (PNP) and Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) already in campaign mode, the country awaits an election date. The JLP is seeking a historic third consecutive term. The last election was held in September 2020.St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, 78, is eyeing a record sixth term for the Unity Labour Party (ULP). No date has been announced, but Gonsalves recently hinted that Parliament will be dissolved soon for elections. The last vote was in November 2020.Trinidad and Tobago
With Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley announcing his intention to step down, a political shakeup looms. Energy Minister Stuart Young has been selected by the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) to take over when Rowley resigns. No election date has been given, but it promises to be closely watched.What’s at Stake?
These elections come at a time when many Caribbean countries are grappling with economic recovery, crime, and climate resilience. Voter turnout and election outcomes will likely shape the region’s political landscape for years to come.
Source: The Caribbean Camera