Political analyst Peter Wickham has raised concerns about potential destabilization within the United Progressive Party (UPP) following the anticipated departure of Algernon Serpent Watts from the St. George constituency. Watts, a first-term Member of Parliament who secured a decisive victory in the 2023 by-election, is reportedly evaluating his political future after being omitted from the party’s candidate roster for the upcoming general election.
Party leader Jamale Pringle has confirmed that the UPP is actively seeking a replacement candidate, acknowledging Watts’ apparent decision to not contest the next polls, which are constitutionally mandated by 2028. While Watts has publicly attributed his potential exit to health considerations, persistent internal party tensions have been noted as a contributing factor.
Wickham emphasized the significance of this development, stating that Watts’ departure would likely disrupt the constituency despite his previous comfortable victory. The political commentator noted that replacing an incumbent candidate typically generates electoral instability, particularly problematic for the UPP which he described as ‘not exactly in a good position to start with.’ The potential loss of a charismatic sitting MP could further weaken the party’s standing as it prepares for the upcoming election cycle, potentially affecting voter confidence and party cohesion.