A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has issued an urgent appeal to the Office of the Supervisor of Elections, calling for a formal review of constitutional eligibility, statutory declarations, and vetting procedures for nominated candidates ahead of Grenada’s upcoming general elections.
In a letter addressed to Supervisor Pierre, the Grouping noted that concerns previously raised with the Office remain unanswered, despite what they describe as “recent developments that make immediate action necessary.”
The CSOs highlight Section 31 of the Grenada Constitution Order 1973, which outlines the conditions that disqualify an individual from membership in the House of Representatives. These include matters relating to allegiance, criminal conviction, bankruptcy, and other factors that render a person ineligible to be elected or to continue serving.
They further reference Section 33(2)(c), which mandates that a parliamentary seat must be vacated if a member becomes disqualified under Section 31. According to the Grouping, these provisions form the constitutional backbone for safeguarding the integrity of parliamentary representation.
The organisations also point to the Representation of the People Act (RPA), Cap. 286A, which reinforces constitutional obligations. Under Section 39, nominated candidates must submit a statutory declaration affirming that they meet all constitutional requirements and are not disqualified under Section 31.
The Grouping argues that this declaration is a critical safeguard intended to prevent ineligible individuals from being nominated or elected.
They also cite Section 26G of the RPA, which makes it an offence to knowingly make a false statement in any matter connected to electoral administration. A false statutory declaration submitted during nomination would constitute a breach of this section and is punishable by law.
According to the CSOs, recent public statements and conduct by certain Members of Parliament have raised concerns that some individuals may have been constitutionally disqualified at the time of nomination. If so, they may have submitted false declarations in violation of both the Constitution and the RPA.
“These matters strike at the heart of democratic integrity and public trust,” the Grouping stated.
With Grenada approaching constitutionally due general elections, the coalition is urging the Supervisor of Elections to; investigate potential breaches of Sections 31 and 33(2)(c) of the Constitution; review statutory declarations submitted by current Members of the House of Representatives; clarify the vetting procedures used to verify compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements; and take all necessary actions under the Constitution and the RPA to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
The Grouping emphasized that they remain committed to supporting transparent, lawful, and democratic governance.
“We trust that the Office will treat this matter with the seriousness and urgency it warrants,” the letter concluded.