分类： politics

The political landscape in Vieux Fort South, Saint Lucia, is heating up as four candidates officially entered the race for the December 1 general election. Nomination day on November 21 saw the submission of candidacy papers by Danny Butcher of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), Leanna “Lady Lee” Johannes-Paul of the United Workers Party (UWP), and independent candidates David “Apa” Charles and Choix Melchoir. Butcher, the first to arrive at the nomination center, led a vibrant parade with a music truck and a large entourage, setting a celebratory tone for the day. He expressed his emotional connection to the SLP and gratitude to the children of Bruceville, who pooled funds to cover his $500 nomination fee. Butcher emphasized his commitment to a peaceful campaign, focusing on the SLP’s plans and respecting diverse views. Meanwhile, Lady Lee, a former radio announcer, urged her supporters to vote for progress, highlighting the need for change in the constituency. Independent candidates Croix and Apa also completed their nominations, with Apa addressing the lack of development in Vieux Fort as his primary motivation. Vieux Fort South, an SLP stronghold for 28 years, faces a pivotal moment as former Prime Minister Kenny Anthony steps down after decades of representation.

The Babonneau constituency in Saint Lucia is set to elect a new parliamentary representative on December 1, following the formal nomination filings of John Paul Estephane from the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and Titus Preville from the United Workers Party (UWP) on Friday. The nomination process took place at the Babonneau Secondary School, where both candidates were accompanied by enthusiastic supporters marching from their respective constituency offices. Both Estephane and Preville expressed unwavering confidence in securing victory in the upcoming general election. Estephane, who was confirmed as the SLP candidate in late August, replacing outgoing MP Virginia Albert-Poyotte, emphasized his deep-rooted connection to the community. ‘I have been with the people. I am a community man, a humble person. A lot of people know me,’ he stated, attributing his strong support to the SLP administration’s efforts and the popularity of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. Preville, greeted by jubilant UWP supporters, highlighted his party’s ambitious proposals, including youth-focused mortgage programs, $25,000 business grants, and measures to reduce the cost of food and fuel. He also criticized the current government for its governance failures, particularly the absence of Citizenship by Investment (CIP) reports. Preville promised transformative reforms if the UWP regains power, vowing to address rising living costs and implement universal health insurance. ‘We are on the cusp of a revolutionary change in Saint Lucia,’ he declared.

Allen Chastanet, Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) and candidate for Micoud South, has expressed confidence in his party’s readiness for the upcoming general election in Saint Lucia. After finalizing his candidacy on Nomination Day, Chastanet emphasized that the people of Saint Lucia are eager for change, signaling a shift in momentum. He believes the UWP is well-positioned to regain voter trust and steer the nation toward a new direction. Chastanet, one of only two UWP candidates to secure victory in the 2021 elections, asserted that the current administration has failed to deliver on its promises, warning that conditions could deteriorate further. He noted an encouraging surge of support in the lead-up to the December 1 election, with previously silent voters now actively engaging in the campaign. Chastanet also criticized the Labour Party’s governance style, accusing them of deepening societal divisions and blurring the lines between party and state. He claimed that state resources are being weaponized for political gain, citing the politicization of public ceremonies as evidence. Addressing his constituents in Micoud South, Chastanet highlighted his track record as former Prime Minister, pledging to prioritize job creation, infrastructure development, new tourism projects, and the construction of a farmers’ market in Anse Ger. The UWP is set to unveil its election manifesto at a rally in La Caye, Dennery, on November 23. Chastanet concluded with a bold statement, declaring that the people of Saint Lucia have had enough and are ready for a transformative change.

Philip J. Pierre, leader of the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), shifted the focus of nomination day celebrations to his loyal supporters rather than his own political ambitions. Pierre, who has held the Castries East parliamentary seat since 1997, is determined to defy the trend that has seen every prime minister since 2006 fail to secure consecutive terms. The last leader to achieve this feat was Kenny Anthony in 2001. Pierre, affectionately known as the ‘Six-Star General’ by his party, expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his constituents, emphasizing that their faith in him over the decades has been both humbling and motivating. He recounted how a woman who signed his nomination papers in 1992 remains a steadfast supporter, symbolizing the enduring bond he shares with his community. Pierre also addressed the challenges faced by his supporters, who often face ridicule and questions about their loyalty. He highlighted his ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure in his constituency, including sports venues and a craft market, while stressing that broader national progress under his leadership benefits Castries East as well. Ahead of the SLP’s election manifesto release, Pierre expressed confidence in his administration’s record, citing documented achievements over the past four and a half years as proof of their commitment to delivering on promises.