Former Prime Minister of Grenada Dr. Keith Mitchell has officially stepped down as Leader of the Opposition, New National Party (NNP), effective today. Dr. Mitchell announced his resignation in a letter to Governor General Dame Cecile La Grenade, marking a significant shift in Grenada’s political landscape.
In his statement, Dr. Mitchell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the role but emphasized the need for new leadership to guide the party and opposition forward. While relinquishing his leadership position, he affirmed his continued dedication to the people of Grenada, stating that he will remain the Member of Parliament for St. George North West.
Hon. Emmalin Pierre, the newly appointed Political Leader of the NNP, will take over as Leader of the Opposition. Pierre makes history as the first female to hold the position within the party. Dr. Mitchell voiced his full support for her leadership, expressing confidence in her ability to lead with strength, empathy, and a deep commitment to the people of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.
Dr. Mitchell’s resignation comes as no surprise. Last year, he confirmed that he would not seek re-election as leader of the NNP. The party had revealed that he informed the NNP executive of this decision on December 13, 2024.
Dr. Mitchell is the longest-serving Prime Minister in Grenadian history, having held office for over 22 years. His political career began when he was elected as leader of the NNP in January 1989, defeating then-Prime Minister Herbert Blaize. Following his victory, Blaize dismissed him from his position as Minister of Communications and Works.
In the 1995 general election, the NNP, under Mitchell’s leadership, won eight out of 15 seats, allowing him to take office as Prime Minister. His tenure saw significant electoral victories, including a historic sweep of all 15 parliamentary seats in both the 1999 and 2013 elections—a feat no other political party in the region has achieved. He also served as Grenada’s Minister of Finance for multiple terms.
However, the NNP suffered electoral defeats in 2008 and 2022, losing to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Despite the 2022 loss to the NDC under Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell (no relation), Dr. Keith Mitchell remained Leader of the Opposition until his resignation.
The NNP previously expressed gratitude for Dr. Mitchell’s decades of dedicated service and leadership, acknowledging his role in significantly shaping Grenada’s progress. The party also reaffirmed its unity and optimism for the future, drawing inspiration from his legacy as it moves forward under new leadership.
