Former foreign minister Peter David, who served more than 10 years as general secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has now joined the ruling New National Party (NNP) of Grenada Prime Minister Keith Mitchell.

David, who served in the NDC government after its 2008 general election victory, was formally endorsed as an NNP member at a public function Tuesday night in the eastern parish of St Andrew.

A two-time NDC MP for the Town of St George, David and nine others were expelled from the party in September 2012. He did not contest last year’s general elections that were won 15-0 by the NNP.

David, speaking to Tuesday’s packed hall that included the prime minister and other government ministers, said he is encouraged by the efforts of the Mitchell administration to improve conditions in Grenada.

“Its action to strengthen and expand its policies regarding social safety nets; of depoliticizing the process and making sure the most needy benefit, deserves our biggest applause,’’ David said. “And with a party and government espousing policies like these, I say count me in.’’

David told the prime minister he has heard his call for national unity, and he believes it is sincere.

David’s decision to join and work with the NNP will go a long way in unifying the nation, said Mitchell who described the former foreign minister as a good politician who loves people.

“The economic challenges this country faces are too huge; and the times are too crucial for all of us to retreat to our political corners, just preparing to come back out in the ring to throw needless political blows. That might thrill the onlookers, but will do no good for the working people all over the country,” David said.