Veteran politician Tillman Thomas was on Wednesday sworn in as the eighth Prime Minister of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Wednesday was also declared a public holiday in celebration of the change in government. Thomas, leader of the National Democratic Congress, was sworn in by Governor General Sir Daniel Williams at the Grenada Trade Centre, taking the Oath of Office and the Oath of Allegiance. The swearing-in followed Tuesday’s general election in which the NDC won 11 of the 15 parliamentary seats. The results marked a humiliating end to the 13-year reign of the New National Party, which had been seeking an unprecedented fourth term in office. Thomas, an attorney at law, described Wednesday’s swearing in ceremony as a historic moment for all those who believe in democracy. “It’s the beauty of democracy to have a transition of government without conflict,” the new Prime Minister said. On several occasions, Thomas was interrupted with rounds of applause from the large crowd witnessing the ceremony at the Trade Centre. “I am really surprised. I didn’t expect to see so many people here,’’ Thomas remarked. He reiterated the NDC’s election pledge to be an inclusive government and to bring back good governance to the country. “This change in government was more than politics. God was involved in it,” Thomas said. “I believe that God wants us to bring back the trusteeship of governance. We, of the National Democratic Congress, are committed to the politics of inclusion.’’ The Prime Minister said the NDC government plans on providing the nation with peace, prosperity and harmony. He said his government will be one for all of Grenada, reaffirming that his administration would place much emphasis on good governance. "Expanding the productive sectors of the economy particularly agriculture. We also want to look at getting serious training projects for our young people. We also want to invest heavily in the human resource of the country. We will be willing to incorporate the projects of the NNP," said Thomas. The new Cabinet Ministers are expected to be sworn in this weekend. Former Prime Minister, Keith Mitchell, while not appearing in public since the shock results, congratulated the opposition on its victory in a televised interview on Tuesday night. Reprinted from Caribbean Net News caribbeannetnews.com