SVG PRIME MINISTER REMAINS IN HOSPITAL OVERNIGHT FOR OBSERVATION

St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is reported to be recuperating from the wound he sustained to his head when he was hit by an object hurled during protests in Kingstown on Thursday afternoon. He is to remain in the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital overnight for observation after being struck inches above the temple. He has informed his colleagues that no lawless mob will prevent him from doing the people’s business in the seat of the country’s democracy. The government in Kingstown has condemned the use of violence for political purposes and says it expects the perpetrator to be brought to justice.

An estimated 200 protestors picketed the Parliament and blocked the entrance to the building. The Prime Minister was struck when he attempted to enter the building on foot after the vehicle in which he was being driven was prevented access through the gate.

The protestors had reportedly converged following a call to action from the Parliamentary Opposition. Lawmakers were due to debate amendments to legislation which the protestors believed would usher in mandatory vaccination for some groups.