标签： Saint Lucia

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.

The nomination process for the highly anticipated Castries Central constituency concluded this morning at the CSA Centre in Sans Souci, marking the official entry of three candidates into the upcoming general election. The contenders include Rosh Clarke of the United Workers Party (UWP), Richard Frederick of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), and independent candidate Stanley Felix. The event was marked by spirited displays of support and competing visions for the constituency’s future. Richard Frederick, the first to arrive, emphasized his dedication to eradicating poverty and improving the lives of constituents. ‘I’ve made significant sacrifices to ensure we address poverty,’ he told reporters, adding that his commitment has earned him widespread support. One of his supporters praised Frederick’s track record, citing his efforts to assist the needy and empower youth in the community. Shortly after Frederick’s departure, Stanley Felix arrived, coinciding with the UWP team’s entrance, creating a lively atmosphere outside the nomination center. Felix expressed confidence in his candidacy, stating, ‘My chances are as good as any of the candidates.’ He outlined plans to revitalize infrastructure, particularly in neglected neighboring communities, emphasizing the need for improved sidewalks and transportation. Rosh Clarke, the UWP candidate, presented a comprehensive vision centered on four key pillars: alleviating traffic congestion, expanding sporting opportunities, enhancing healthcare with a 24-hour clinic, and improving housing conditions. Despite the competitive atmosphere, moments of unity were observed as Clarke and Felix warmly greeted supporters of their opponents outside the venue.

As Saint Lucia gears up for its General Election on December 1, Herod Stanislas, the former Member of Parliament for Soufrière/Fond St. Jacques, has expressed unwavering confidence in his return to the House of Assembly under the United Workers Party (UWP) banner. With just 11 days remaining until the election, the UWP held a national public meeting in the Soufrière community of Palmiste on November 20, the eve of Nomination Day. The event coincided with the 65th birthday of UWP political leader and former Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, adding a celebratory tone to the gathering.

Stanislas, who previously served as MP from 2016 to 2021, is vying for a second term after narrowly losing to Emma Hippolyte in the last election. Addressing the crowd, he outlined his vision for the constituency, emphasizing youth and sports development, infrastructural improvements, and economic revitalization. He highlighted his past achievements, including the reconstruction of 60% of the roads in New Development and the installation of artificial turf and a 400m rubber track at the Soufrière Stadium.

Looking ahead, Stanislas pledged to complete the remaining road projects, construct an administrative building, and deliver 100 housing lots for first-time homeowners. He also unveiled plans to transform the old copra factory into a business incubator, museum, and restaurant to stimulate local economic growth. Additionally, he committed to advancing the second phase of the Soufrière Mini Stadium, which includes a multipurpose court for netball and volleyball, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and the certification of the track and football turf to host regional and international events.

Stanislas further revealed his ambition to establish a cricket-specific ground on eight acres of land in Ruby, envisioning Soufrière/Fond St. Jacques as a hub for diverse sporting activities. He also lamented the unused land acquired for a 30-bed hospital during the previous UWP administration, expressing his determination to see the project come to fruition. The UWP is set to launch its 2025 Manifesto on November 23, outlining its broader plans for national development.