分类： politics

As global attention shifts between the fragile Israel-Hamas peace agreement and geopolitical tensions in Venezuela and the Pacific, a reflection on an ancient quote by Tacitus becomes strikingly relevant: ‘Rome creates a desert and calls it peace.’ This sentiment, first articulated by the Scottish chieftain Calgacus in 83 AD, continues to resonate through centuries of military interventions. Calgacus’ critique of Roman imperialism—where conquest was masked as civilization and subjugation as peace—reveals a pattern that persists in modern geopolitics. The powerful have long justified military action as liberation, violence as order, and domination as peace, often leaving behind devastation rebranded as stability. This cycle is perpetuated by the allure of decisive military action, the political safety of appearing strong, and the deferred costs borne by distant populations. The aftermath of such interventions often sees power vacuums, radicalized generations, and destabilized regions—deserts created in the name of peace. Yet, the rhetoric of victory and mission accomplished continues to overshadow the long-term consequences. Breaking this pattern requires acknowledging that military force is not a panacea, investing in diplomacy, and redefining success not by enemies killed but by conflicts resolved and societies rebuilt. The question remains: will we continue to prove Calgacus right, or will we choose a different path?

As the December 1 general election in Saint Lucia approaches, both major political parties, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the United Workers Party (UWP), have yet to unveil their manifestos. These documents, which serve as public declarations of a party’s policies, aims, and ideology, are crucial for voters to understand the parties’ plans for governance.

The SLP, which campaigned in 2021 on the promise to ‘put people first,’ emphasized three core values: equity, respect for the rule of law, and inclusiveness. The party highlighted the severe economic contraction Saint Lucia faced in 2020, with a 23.8% decline, and a public debt nearing $4 billion. The SLP’s manifesto outlined measures to address economic decline, including focusing on housing, expanding the digital economy, and exploring health tourism. Additionally, the party pledged to revamp the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), broaden financial services, and establish a youth economy. Other commitments included support for manufacturers and agro-processors, reestablishing banana marketing, and developing a medicinal and recreational cannabis industry. The SLP also promised to strengthen COVID-19 response, advance Universal Health Care, and enhance education by paying facility fees for all students and introducing TVET skills at the primary level.

On the other hand, the UWP, which won the 2016 election with its ‘five to stay alive’ campaign, titled its 2021 manifesto ‘5 for Five.’ The UWP countered the SLP’s narrative of economic decline, stating that Saint Lucia’s economy was poised for robust growth before the pandemic. The party’s five-point plan included introducing unemployment benefits, expanding monthly assistance for the needy, reducing VAT to 10%, and providing medical care for all. In its first 100 days, the UWP promised a $3 million Back to School Programme, unemployment insurance consultation, and national health insurance legislation. The party also pledged to support infrastructure projects like the Millennium Highway and West Coast project, as well as agricultural initiatives such as the seven-crop project and Banana Productivity Improvement Programme. The UWP’s plans for tourism included expanding hotel room stock to 8,000 and promoting village tourism. In health and education, the party proposed transforming St. Jude Hospital into a university hospital and aligning education more closely with global offerings.

Both parties have outlined comprehensive plans to address the economic, social, and political challenges facing Saint Lucia, but with the election just two weeks away, the delay in releasing their manifestos has left voters eagerly awaiting the details of their proposed policies.

As St. Lucia’s general election on December 1 approaches, the national spotlight has shifted to several pivotal constituencies that could determine the election’s outcome. From Castries East and Micoud South, where incumbent leaders defend their seats, to Choiseul, Vieux Fort South, Dennery South, and Soufriere, these races provide critical insights into the island’s evolving political landscape. In Castries East, Philip J. Pierre faces political newcomer Peter Chiquot, who emphasizes community service over personal ambition. Meanwhile, in Micoud South, Allen Chastanet contends with Shanda Lee Harracksingh, who challenges his representation record and advocates for youth development and agricultural support. Choiseul features a dynamic contest between Keithson ‘Kiffo’ Charles and Bradley Felix, both beloved by constituents and focused on infrastructure and economic development. Vieux Fort South, transitioning after the exit of former Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony, sees a clash between seasoned campaign manager Danny Butcher and media personality Leanna ‘Lady Lee’ Johannes-Paul. Dennery South has gained attention due to a high-profile political defection, with Alfred Prospere and Benson Emile vying for votes on platforms of agricultural support and youth empowerment. In Soufriere, Emma Hippolyte and Herod Stanislas face off in a rematch centered on tourism, economic stability, and community development. Across these constituencies, voters prioritize infrastructure, economic opportunities, and leadership capable of delivering tangible improvements. These local issues, combined with national concerns, will shape the election’s outcome on December 1.