Jaundy Martin was sworn in on Friday for a second time as Attorney General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), replacing Grenville Williams, who is stepping down to contest the upcoming general election on the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) ticket.
The brief swearing-in ceremony took place at Government House in Montrose, with Governor General Dame Susan Dougan presiding. Martin, who previously served as Attorney General from 2017 until November 2022, returns to the post in what is expected to be a temporary capacity until after the November 27 general election.
His appointment follows the dissolution of Parliament on October 28 and comes as Williams prepares to launch his first bid for elective office, challenging opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) incumbent Nigel “Nature” Stephenson, who is seeking a fourth term.
During his previous tenure, Martin played a central role in several high-profile legal matters, including the government’s 2021 COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which led to the dismissal of hundreds of public sector workers. The resulting legal battle saw unions initially prevail in court, but the decision was later overturned by the Court of Appeal. The appellate court is expected to hear arguments next week on whether the case should be referred to the Privy Council, SVG’s highest court, for final determination.
Williams, who succeeded Martin in November 2022, is now vacating the post as he transitions into active politics. His candidacy is part of the ULP’s push for a sixth consecutive term in office after narrowly securing victory in the 2020 general election, winning nine seats to the NDP’s six.
Martin’s return to the Attorney General’s office ensures continuity within the government’s legal leadership during the election period, as the nation heads toward what is expected to be a closely watched and competitive vote.
.){kind=link}