标签： Saint Lucia

Prime Minister Philip J Pierre of Saint Lucia has publicly denounced the United Workers Party (UWP) for allegedly mocking individuals with disabilities through a campaign song that ridiculed him. The issue was addressed during a pre-cabinet meeting on November 24, where Pierre expressed his dismay over the insensitive lyrics. The song, which repeatedly included the line “Prime Minister autistic,” was performed by an emcee at a recent UWP rally. Pierre emphasized that such behavior reflects a broader issue of disrespect within the UWP, not only toward him but also toward the disabled community. He stated, “I have had an honours degree. I have worked for myself all my life. But they believe they can take me down. That won’t take me down. People have voted for me for six [election] years. They will vote for me again.” Pierre called on all individuals with disabilities to take note of the UWP’s actions, urging them to recognize the party’s true mentality. He also highlighted his administration’s efforts to support the disabled community, including the establishment of a dedicated ministry and increased funding for education. Pierre concluded by reiterating his appeal to the disabled community, urging them to consider the implications of the UWP’s actions.

In a compelling address broadcast on DBS on November 25, former Prime Minister Michael “Mikey” Pilgrim threw his weight behind independent candidate Stanley Felix in the Castries Central race. Pilgrim’s endorsement was rooted in a scathing critique of what he termed “widespread” corruption, which he claims has deeply entrenched itself in the nation’s political fabric over the years. Drawing a stark contrast between the political climate of his tenure and the present, Pilgrim lamented that corruption, once minimal, has now become an accepted norm. He urged voters to elevate their expectations of leadership, emphasizing the need for integrity and moral fortitude in elected officials. Pilgrim characterized the three candidates in the Castries Central race as “the good, the bad, and the gentle,” imploring voters to choose a candidate who embodies humility, honesty, and respect for all. He specifically addressed residents of key neighborhoods, including Morne Du Don, Wilton’s Yard, and Sans Souci, urging them to cast their votes decisively for Felix, whom he described as a genuine and selfless leader committed to serving the people.

The Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has officially launched its 2025 Manifesto, titled “Moving Forward Together,” ahead of the upcoming General Election. This comprehensive document outlines a bold vision for the nation, focusing on technological advancement, economic stability, and enhanced social protection. Prime Minister Philip J Pierre emphasized that the manifesto builds on the government’s accomplishments since 2021 and aims to position Saint Lucia as the most technologically advanced Small Island Developing State by 2035. Key priorities include strengthening governance, ensuring economic growth, and reducing unemployment rates. Infrastructure development remains a central focus, with plans to modernize the Hewanorra International Airport, expand seaport capacity, upgrade water systems, construct new bus terminals, and deliver state-of-the-art medical facilities, including the Soufrière Hospital and the recently completed St Jude Hospital. The SLP also pledges to create job opportunities in tourism, construction, BPO operations, and emerging technology sectors, while introducing a national unemployment insurance program to safeguard workers. Healthcare modernization is another cornerstone, with digital patient integration, expanded universal health coverage, and improved community health services. Education reform is equally prioritized, with goals to digitize half of all classrooms by 2035, broaden early-childhood access, and strengthen technical and vocational training. The manifesto also highlights plans to boost tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing through local participation, community tourism, and technological advancements. Maritime development, including a modernized Vieux Fort Port and a National Maritime Academy, is part of the economic diversification strategy. Citizen security is addressed through expanded police force funding, upgraded facilities, and community-based crime prevention initiatives. Housing affordability is another key focus, with promises of multi-family developments, improved land title access, and incentives for first-time homeowners. Digital transformation is a recurring theme, with plans for a National Artificial Intelligence Centre, enhanced cybersecurity, and expanded high-speed internet access. The SLP concludes by reaffirming its commitment to a people-centered approach, positioning itself as the most credible choice for Saint Lucia’s future.

As Saint Lucia’s election campaign gains momentum, the debate over the significance of crowd sizes in determining electoral success has intensified. Political analysts and candidates alike are divided on whether large rallies translate into votes, with some dismissing them as irrelevant while others see them as a crucial indicator of popularity. This discourse highlights the complex interplay between perception and reality in electoral politics. On one side, politicians boast about their ability to draw massive crowds, while opponents argue that such gatherings do not guarantee victory. Meanwhile, many voters remain indifferent, believing that elections are decided at the ballot box, not at rallies. However, the truth lies somewhere in between. Crowd size does matter, but its impact depends on how it is interpreted within the broader context of a campaign. Elections are not just about votes; they are also about mobilizing support, generating enthusiasm, and shaping public perception. In Caribbean politics, where energy and excitement are vital, large crowds serve as a visible manifestation of a candidate’s ability to connect with voters. They create a sense of momentum and legitimacy, influencing both participants and observers. Behavioural science explains this phenomenon, noting that people are drawn to groups they perceive as successful. The ‘bandwagon effect’ plays a significant role, as individuals often align themselves with what appears to be the popular choice. Crowds also provide emotional validation and social cohesion for supporters, boosting campaign morale. However, relying solely on crowd size can be misleading, as history has shown that even massive rallies do not always translate into electoral victories. Ultimately, while crowd size shapes perception, it is the ballot box that determines the outcome. The challenge for politicians is to strike a balance between generating visible support and addressing the substantive issues that truly matter to voters.

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.