The United National Congress (UNC) of Trinidad and Tobago has firmly denied authorizing entertainer and local government councillor John Michael Alibocus, popularly known as Makamillion, to influence or campaign in Saint Lucia’s upcoming elections. The controversy arose after a video surfaced online showing Makamillion performing in Saint Lucia while wearing a UNC T-shirt and using the party’s slogan, “Yellow is the Code.” This slogan, adopted by the UNC in 2023, has reportedly been utilized by Saint Lucia’s United Workers Party (UWP) during their campaign. The footage also allegedly featured Makamillion endorsing the UWP and its leader, Allen Chastanet. A voice note attributed to Makamillion further suggested he was “mandated” to campaign in Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent, both of which are heading to the polls in December and November, respectively. UNC Public Relations Officer Kirk Meighoo and Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Barry Padarath both refuted these claims, emphasizing that no government directive was issued. Padarath clarified that while the UNC respects the sovereignty of other nations, it cannot restrict its members from individual activities. He also highlighted the widespread use of similar political colors across the Caribbean, noting that the slogan “Yellow is the Code” had gained popularity beyond Trinidad and Tobago. Padarath reiterated the importance of respecting the democratic will of voters in each country, stating that election outcomes must reflect the people’s choice, not external influence. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles raised concerns about potential indirect involvement in regional elections, referencing prior statements by Housing Minister Anil Roberts regarding state-subsidized homes owned by Vincentian Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his family in Trinidad.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
-
National footballer Eartha Pond nominated for UK Sports Award
National footballer Eartha Pond has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to grassroots sports with a nomination for the Grassroots Sportswoman of the Year Award, part of The Sunday Times Sportswomen of the Year 2025 Awards. Pond, a former defender for top clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur, has also represented the Piton Girlz in 2023. Beyond her athletic achievements, she is a dedicated community activist and social entrepreneur. The award, as highlighted in an official letter shared on Pond’s social media, honors women who break barriers and unite communities through the joy of sports and physical activity. Pond’s nomination is largely attributed to her impactful work with the “Girls Allowed” programme, which has engaged over 8,000 girls across the UK in diverse sports, and her “Mums Allowed” initiative, empowering women to rediscover movement and wellbeing. Additionally, she has sponsored kits for Saint Lucia’s national women’s team. Expressing her gratitude on Instagram, Pond emphasized her long-standing commitment to grassroots efforts in education, sports, and policy. Voting for the awards is open to UK residents until December 20, 2025, with winners announced on February 4, 2026.
-
Local play ‘The Chillout’ thrills audiences
Tito Adams’ Open Waters Theatre has once again proven its artistic prowess with the successful debut of ‘The Chillout’ at the National Cultural Centre over the weekend. This marks Adams’ fourth major production and is widely regarded as his finest work to date. The play masterfully blends drama, humor, and poignant messages, leaving audiences both entertained and deeply moved. Adams’ refined storytelling and nuanced direction have elevated the production to new heights. The narrative revolves around a family embroiled in a battle over the ownership of ‘The Chillout,’ a beloved community bed and breakfast and restaurant that serves as a local gathering spot. The story delves into the lives of its diverse characters, including a street hustler, a troubled husband seeking solace, and a community ‘bum’ who finds a sense of belonging at the establishment. The central conflict arises when the older Peters brother returns, intent on taking control of the business, threatening the community’s cherished hangout. Nicquan James delivers a standout performance as Johnathan Peters, the younger brother who strives to preserve the legacy of ‘The Chillout.’ The play’s second half transitions into a semi-musical, featuring captivating musical performances that enhance the emotional depth of the story. As the plot unfolds, relationships are mended, love blossoms, and the community’s beacon of hope remains intact. The production concludes with a heartfelt appeal to save ‘The Chillout,’ leaving audiences in rapturous applause. Adams, who secured significant sponsorship for this project, continues to showcase his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His work, deeply rooted in faith and family, resonates profoundly with viewers. ‘The Chillout’ is a must-see production that deserves a wider audience, including students of theatre arts. We eagerly anticipate Adams’ next creative endeavor.
-
Pierre defends students’ Nomination Day cheers amid public debate
A recent incident involving schoolchildren chanting for political candidates has ignited a heated national debate about the appropriateness of minors engaging in partisan politics. Last Friday, videos surfaced on social media showing students from Ave Maria Girls School enthusiastically chanting ‘SLP! SLP!’ as Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) candidate Richard Frederick and his entourage passed by on their way to a nomination center. The footage has drawn mixed reactions, with some condemning the act as inappropriate, while others defend it as a form of civic education. Critics, including radio host Timothy Poleon, argue that involving children in partisan activities sets a dangerous precedent. ‘It ought not to be partisan,’ Poleon emphasized, questioning whether parents were consulted. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre dismissed the criticism, framing the outcry as politically motivated. He defended the children’s right to express their political preferences, linking their support for SLP to his administration’s education policies, such as covering CXC subject fees and providing material allowances for teachers. The National Principals Association and the Ministry of Education have yet to comment on the matter, leaving the debate unresolved.
-
Phillip helps steer Wolfpack into NCAA Sweet 16
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Donavan Phillip, the star forward from Saint Lucia, reignited his scoring prowess to propel the North Carolina State Wolfpack men’s soccer team into the NCAA Championship Sweet 16. The match, held on Sunday, November 23, at Dail Soccer Stadium in Raleigh, saw the Wolfpack secure a decisive 2-0 victory over Marshall. Phillip, who had been in a five-game scoring drought, opened the scoring with a header in the second minute, capitalizing on a corner-kick delivered by Riley Moloney. This goal marked Phillip’s 16th of the season, a feat not achieved by a Wolfpack player since 1991, and placed him among the top 10 goal-scorers in the school’s history. Only five players have scored more in a single season since 1961, with Sam Okpodu holding the record of 29 goals in 1982. Moloney, a defender recently named to the All-ACC Freshman team, added to the tally in the 59th minute with a deflected corner-kick that found the back of the net. The Wolfpack now prepare to host UNC Greensboro on November 30, following UNCG’s upset victory over No. 2 seed Virginia. The teams previously met in October, resulting in a 1-1 draw. With six of the 16 seeded teams already eliminated, the tournament promises more excitement as the Wolfpack aim to continue their championship journey.
-
Chastanet previews potential UWP Cabinet
Allen Chastanet, the Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), has provided a glimpse into his prospective Cabinet should the party emerge victorious in the upcoming elections. Speaking at the UWP manifesto launch last weekend, Chastanet emphasized the party’s determination to reclaim four key constituencies: Dennery North, Dennery South, Micoud North, and Micoud South. He assured supporters that the candidates representing these areas would secure prominent roles in his Cabinet. Chastanet outlined specific ministerial assignments, including Bradley Marcelle Fulgence (Dennery North) as Minister for Agriculture and Gaming, Benson Emile (Dennery South) as Minister for Health, and Elisha Norbert (Micoud North) as Minister for Education. For his own constituency, Micoud South, Chastanet confidently declared, “Of course, the people of Micoud South, you will have the PM, your PM.” Throughout the event, Chastanet underscored the importance of unity within the UWP, asserting that only a cohesive party could effectively lead the nation. His remarks exuded confidence in the UWP’s ability to triumph on December 1, with the presented team poised to govern and guide Saint Lucia into its next chapter.
-
Guyana’s Boxing Chief endorses Casimir
Steve Ninvalle, President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and Director of Sport for Guyana, has publicly endorsed Kenson Casimir, Saint Lucia’s Sports Minister, ahead of the country’s general election on Monday. Ninvalle highlighted Casimir’s transformative leadership in sports and his unwavering commitment to athletic development in Saint Lucia.
-
Rayneau: St Jude Hospital was a monumental, risky task
The long-awaited reconstruction of St Jude Hospital in Saint Lucia has finally reached a significant milestone, thanks to the bold financial risks taken by the project’s contractor. Rayneau Gajadhar, Managing Director of Construction & Industrial Equipment Ltd., revealed to St. Lucia Times that he proceeded with major orders without formal government approval to ensure the project’s completion. This unconventional approach, while risky, was driven by his commitment to delivering the hospital to the people of Saint Lucia. Gajadhar stated, “I took the risk, and I said, ‘I am going to order it, and if you don’t like it, I will keep it and you don’t pay for it.’ It was a very big risk, but because I really wanted to get the hospital done, I took that risk.” Fortunately, none of the materials ordered have been rejected, though Gajadhar was prepared to absorb any potential losses. The physical structure of the hospital was handed over to the government earlier this month, but the facility is not yet fully operational. Key medical equipment is still being installed and tested, with the remaining shipments expected soon. Gajadhar emphasized that the project transcends political affiliations, stating, “This is not about me. This is not about the Prime Minister. This is not about [the] party in power. This is something the people of the south and the people of Saint Lucia deserve to have.” He also praised the healthcare professionals who have been providing services from makeshift facilities at the George Odlum Stadium since the original hospital was destroyed by fire 16 years ago. Looking ahead, Gajadhar’s company is expanding its regional portfolio, with major hospital projects in Montserrat and Grenada, as well as private sector developments in St Vincent, Grenada, and Dominica.
-
New programme links STEM Training to Sustainable Tourism
In a groundbreaking effort to prepare Caribbean youth for environmental and economic challenges, the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) has launched the EcoYouth Ventures initiative. This two-year programme, funded by Taiwan and implemented in partnership with Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Education, will benefit over 1,500 students and 75 teachers across Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The initiative aims to integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with environmental leadership and sustainable tourism, equipping participants with the skills to build a greener and more resilient Caribbean future. At the launch event held at the Bay Gardens Hotel, key stakeholders, including representatives from Taiwan, the Ministry of Education, and leaders from the tourism and environmental sectors, emphasised the programme’s role in modernising education and fostering innovation. Activities will include teacher training, Innovation Challenges, and National STEM Fairs, culminating in the 2027 Regional Sustainability Summit in Saint Lucia, where students will showcase their projects and collaborate with industry experts and policymakers.
-
Saint Lucia Flotilla Waves ARC Off in Style
On Sunday, November 23, the 40th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) commenced with a grand flotilla departing from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, bound for Rodney Bay Marina in Saint Lucia. This annual event, renowned for fostering seamanship, cultural exchange, and international camaraderie, saw over 100 boats embark on the 2,700-nautical-mile journey. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), in collaboration with Events Saint Lucia and the World Cruising Club (WCC), orchestrated a synchronized celebration in Castries, symbolizing the transatlantic start of the rally. Peta Cozier of the WCC, who has been involved with the ARC for a decade, expressed her excitement, highlighting the meticulous preparation and the diverse participation of 148 boats across three categories: cruising, multi-hull, and IRC racing. The latter category relies solely on ocean winds, showcasing traditional sailing skills. This year’s rally features 900 participants aged 6 to 80, hailing from eight countries. Cozier emphasized the event’s role in building lifelong friendships and fostering global networks. Louis Lewis, CEO of the SLTA, underscored the ARC’s significance as the flagship event for the yachting sector, expressing enthusiasm for the return of the flotilla to its former scale. He outlined an engaging itinerary for participants upon their arrival in Saint Lucia, designed to showcase the island’s culture and hospitality. Before the flotilla’s departure, Dexter Percil, SLTA’s Director of Global Marketing, acknowledged the support of sponsors and media partners, including IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Heineken Saint Lucia, and Digicel. The journey is expected to take 14 to 21 days, with the first boats anticipated to arrive in Saint Lucia by early December.