In a surprising turn of events, former United Workers Party (UWP) Deputy Leaders Gale Rigobert and Ezechiel Joseph made a notable return to the political arena on November 23. Their appearance at the UWP’s General Election Manifesto Launch in La Caye, Dennery, ended weeks of speculation about their political allegiances. The event, marked by fervent speeches and strategic endorsements, underscored their unwavering support for the party. Earlier in the evening, UWP Public Relations Officer Lenard “Spider” Montoute hinted at significant developments, teasing the crowd with the statement, “All the big fish are here tonight.” This followed comments by SLP Political Leader Philip J. Pierre, who had fueled rumors during a November 12 public meeting in Dennery South, suggesting that the UWP was unaware of impending political shifts. The speculation intensified after former UWP MP Edmund Estephane announced his decision to switch allegiance to the SLP. However, Rigobert and Joseph’s presence at the UWP event dispelled any doubts about their loyalty. Rigobert, a former Micoud North MP and Education Minister, delivered a passionate rallying cry, urging supporters to reclaim governance on December 1. Joseph, former MP for Babonneau and Agriculture Minister, emphasized his commitment despite personal challenges, endorsing UWP leader Allen Michael Chastanet as the next Prime Minister of Saint Lucia. He also dismissed rumors of discord with Chastanet, stating, “There is no divorce between Allen and myself.” Additionally, Joseph endorsed the party’s new candidate for Babonneau, Titus Preville, and firmly rejected any notion of wavering allegiance.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
-
Man killed in Pierrot shooting
A tragic incident unfolded in Pierrot, Vieux Fort, resulting in the death of a 55-year-old man. Authorities reported that on the morning of Friday, November 21, at approximately 6:30 a.m., officers from the Criminal Investigations Department at the Vieux Fort Police Station were alerted to an unconscious man discovered on the ground. Emergency responders from the Saint Lucia Fire Service swiftly attended to the victim, who was then transported by ambulance to St. Jude Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead by a medical practitioner. The deceased has been identified as Paul Campsell, a resident of Pierrot, Vieux Fort. In a related development, police have confirmed that one individual is currently in custody and is assisting with the ongoing investigation into the shooting.
-
Police recover Glock 19, ammunition in La Croix Mingot stop and search
In a significant early morning operation on Thursday, November 20, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force successfully recovered an illegal firearm and ammunition during a routine stop and search in La Croix Mingot. The operation, conducted around 1:30 a.m., involved officers from the Special Services Unit in Castries who intercepted a vehicle with two occupants. The search yielded a Black Glock 19 handgun and 11 rounds of ammunition. The two individuals, identified as 34-year-old Melvin Montoute from St. Lawrence Street, Anse La Raye, and 27-year-old Shaquille De Leon from Marigot, were promptly taken into custody. Both men were formally charged with ‘Possession of a Firearm’ and ‘Possession of Ammunition.’ The following day, November 21, the First District Court granted Montoute and De Leon bail. Montoute was required to post $25,000 cash or provide a suitable surety for the firearm charge, while De Leon faced a $10,000 cash or surety requirement for the ammunition charge. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Saint Lucia law enforcement to combat illegal arms possession and enhance public safety.
-
Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff, dies at 81
Jimmy Cliff, the iconic Jamaican singer, actor, and songwriter whose six-decade-long career catapulted reggae music onto the international stage, has passed away at the age of 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death on Instagram, revealing that he succumbed to complications from a seizure followed by pneumonia. Born James Chambers in 1944 in Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff rose from humble beginnings, singing in his local church from the age of six. He adopted the stage name ‘Cliff’ as a teenager, symbolizing his ambition to scale the highest peaks of musical success. Cliff’s career gained momentum in the early 1960s through collaborations with producer Leslie Kong, which led to local hits. His international breakthrough came after representing Jamaica at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York, followed by signing with Island Records and relocating to London. Cliff’s music, characterized by its fusion of ska and reggae rhythms with socially conscious lyrics, resonated globally. His 1969 UK hit, ‘Wonderful World, Beautiful People,’ reached No. 6 on the charts, blending messages of hope with critiques of societal issues. Bob Dylan famously praised Cliff’s 1970 anti-war anthem ‘Vietnam’ as ‘the best protest song ever written.’ Among his timeless hits are ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ ‘I Can See Clearly Now,’ and ‘Wonderful World, Beautiful People.’ Tributes have flooded in worldwide, including from Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who hailed Cliff as a ‘cultural giant’ whose music elevated Jamaican culture on the global stage. Despite his accolades, Cliff cherished his connection with fans, often citing moments when his music inspired profound personal transformations as his greatest achievements. He continued performing into his later years, including a memorable appearance at the Coachella Festival in 2010.
-
Show the World returns to showcase youth at Christmas
The highly anticipated annual event, *Show the World – It’s Christmas*, is set to return on Saturday, November 29, at the Sandals Grande Ballroom. This year’s edition promises to blend music, family, and festive cheer, continuing its legacy as a platform for showcasing Saint Lucian talent. Organised by Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson & Friends, the event has become a cornerstone of the island’s cultural calendar, celebrated for its ability to unite communities and highlight emerging artists. At a recent press briefing, sponsors and organisers shared their enthusiasm for the event’s evolution and its focus on fostering young talent. MacNaughton McLean, one of the event’s founders, reflected on its origins, noting that the initiative was born out of a desire to provide a stage for Hinkson and the many artists he has mentored. This year, the event will feature a special family-themed segment, adding a heartwarming touch to the performances. Export Saint Lucia, the newest sponsor, sees the partnership as a natural extension of its mission to promote Saint Lucian excellence globally. CEO Sunita Daniel highlighted the event’s role in identifying talent for international showcases, such as Expo Osaka. Long-time sponsors like JQ Motors, KFC, Domino’s Pizza, and First National Bank also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting youth development through the arts. With a lineup of world-class musicians, vocalists, and surprises, *Show the World – It’s Christmas* aims to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees.
-
Saint Lucia places 4th at Rugby Americas North tournament
The Saint Lucia national men’s rugby team concluded their campaign in the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Tournament with a fourth-place finish in Tier 2, held at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago. Despite a narrow 10-13 loss to The Bahamas in the group stage, the team advanced to the semifinals, showcasing resilience and determination. In the preliminary match against The Bahamas, Benerrero Wellington scored an unconverted try in the fourth minute, leveling the score at 5-5 by halftime. Claudius Medouze’s powerful run in the second half briefly gave Saint Lucia the lead, but The Bahamas responded with a try and secured victory with a last-minute penalty kick. Earlier in the tournament, Saint Lucia dominated the British Virgin Islands 14-5, with tries from Melvin Alexis and debutant Yantez Jn Baptiste, complemented by two conversions from Malyle Cherry. They also triumphed over St Vincent and the Grenadines with a commanding 31-12 victory, featuring contributions from Alexis, Wellington, Jn Baptiste, and Medouze, alongside conversions by Cherry, Jn Baptiste, and Jesey Francois. Additionally, Saint Lucia shut out The Turks and Caicos Islands 12-0, with Medouze and Alexis scoring tries. However, their playoff journey ended with a 0-19 defeat to Curaçao, followed by a 17-26 loss to The Bahamas in the third-place playoff, despite a spirited comeback led by Jn Baptiste, Francois, and Le-Mani Lewis.
-
Reds Perreira questions vice captaincy selection for NZ tests
Veteran cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira has expressed concerns over the West Indies’ decision to retain Jomel Warrican as vice-captain for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, commencing on December 1. The West Indies enter the series on the back of disappointing performances in both the five-match T20 International and three-match One Day International series, despite some competitive displays. Perreira argued that Warrican, a left-arm spinner, may not be the ideal choice to support captain Roston Chase, particularly in pace-friendly conditions. He emphasized that vice-captain selections are typically made on a series-by-series basis and suggested that alternative candidates should have been considered. Additionally, Perreira raised questions about the management of injuries to fast-bowling duo Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, who have been ruled out for the remainder of the year. He called for greater transparency regarding their rehabilitation process, including details about specialist consultations, progress updates, and their potential return to competitive cricket. The squad for the New Zealand tour sees the return of experienced fast bowler Kemar Roach, who is expected to play a pivotal role, alongside debutant Ojay Shields and returning player Kavem Hodge. Perreira voiced no objections to these selections, highlighting their potential contributions to the team.
-
A look at the UWP’s 2025 manifesto
The United Workers Party (UWP) of Saint Lucia has released its comprehensive 78-page manifesto, titled ‘Reclaiming Our Future,’ outlining its vision for the nation’s future should it secure victory in the upcoming elections. Published on November 23 and now accessible on their official website, the document presents a robust critique of the current administration while detailing a three-part framework of relief, recovery, and reform. UWP leader Allen Chastanet, in his opening message, described the current moment as a ‘crossroads in our nation’s history,’ accusing the government of ‘deception, mismanagement, and unashamed acts of corruption.’ He urged citizens to embrace change, emphasizing the need for ‘decency over deception, progress over stagnation, and excellence over excuses.’ The manifesto’s ‘SOS Plan’ focuses on immediate relief measures, including the removal of the 2.5% Health and Security Levy, reduced fuel prices, free tertiary education, and expanded healthcare coverage. The recovery section emphasizes long-term investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and technology, while the reform agenda targets legislative updates, improved public service delivery, and enhanced democratic institutions. The document also outlines sector-specific plans for healthcare, agriculture, tourism, digital transformation, citizen security, and the creative industries. Chastanet concluded with a call for unity and better leadership, positioning the UWP as the party capable of rebuilding Saint Lucia’s future.
-
WASCO fast-tracks repairs as harsh 2026 drought looms
Saint Lucia is facing a mounting water crisis, with frequent planned and unplanned supply disruptions plaguing communities across the island. Utility officials are bracing for a severe dry spell predicted for 2026, which could be one of the worst in the past decade. The Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) is intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact on residents through a series of infrastructure upgrades and conservation measures. WASCO CEO Zilta George-Leslie emphasized the urgency of water conservation during a recent press conference, citing preparations such as securing water trucks, clearing catchments, and exploring damming in Vanard. The company is also advancing long-term improvements, including a $2.1 million upgrade to the Patience water treatment plant, funded by the CARICOM Development Fund. This project, expected to be completed by late 2026, will transform the facility into a state-of-the-art system with a new intake, pumping station, and treatment plant. Meanwhile, aging pipelines and faulty treatment systems continue to burden residents, particularly in the north. WASCO is also tackling three major capital projects: reconstructing the Millet-Vanard pipeline, upgrading the Theobalds Treatment Plant, and replacing the Bonneterre-Gros Islet pipeline. These initiatives, supported by $4.2 million in concessional financing, aim to significantly improve water supply and reduce losses. Despite challenges in securing funding, WASCO remains committed to minimizing disruptions and ensuring residents receive adequate notice during planned outages. The company has also procured additional water trucks to assist during prolonged shortages. Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire highlighted the strain on utilities from the growing home accommodation market, while political leaders from both major parties emphasized the need for comprehensive solutions, including desalination and pipeline upgrades.
-
Cricket association launches girls’ initiative
In a landmark event at Mindoo Phillip Park, over 60 young female cricketers gathered for a transformative training session, marking the inaugural intake of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) and Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) Under-17 Grassroots Hub Festival. This initiative aims to expand the pool of female cricketers and inspire the next generation of talent. The session featured prominent cricketing figures, including West Indies senior allrounder Nerissa Crafton, Under-19 pacer Selena Ross, Windward Islands player Namiah Marcellin, and former West Indies fast bowler Philipa Thomas-Eudovic, who shared their expertise and motivated the aspiring athletes. Guided by coach Alton Crafton and supported by a team of current and former players, the young participants engaged in rigorous drills and eagerly sought inspiration from their role models. Roseline Preville, SLNCA’s third vice-president for women’s cricket, emphasized the program’s broader vision, stating, ‘We are looking to have competitions starting from the schools and integrating cricket into the curriculum.’ The initiative also plans to introduce a foundation cricket coaching course for physical education teachers, further embedding cricket into Saint Lucia’s educational framework. With the global rise of women’s cricket, this program seeks to create opportunities for young women to excel in the sport and potentially represent the West Indies on the international stage.