Former prime minister Ralph Gonsalves says the 2026 budget estimates shows an allocation of $1.5 million to the Office of the Prime Minister specifically to “undertake major works and procure furnishings, furniture, fix fittings and equipment at the residence of the prime minister”. This is presumed according to Gonsalves to cover the rent for the Prime Minister’s temporary accommodation while the official residence is being refurbished. The central criticism is that the administration is prioritizing the “comfort” of the Prime Minister over the needs of the poor during a deficit budget. He asserts that he lived in the residence until November of the previous year and it was “comfortable” and “livable,” requiring only minor repairs to one side of the roof, rather than a $1.5 million overhaul. He predicted that the cost might eventually exceed $1.5 million through supplementary estimates once contractors become involved.