Letters & Opinion

UWP, It’s Now or Never

By James Stanislaus

The UWP Community Night Dinner on October 26th served as a rallying cry to the hundreds of party supporters and well-wishers in attendance. Political Leader Allen Chastanet’s brief yet impassioned address highlighted the dire need for collective action in the face of the nation’s mounting challenges, particularly the crippling economic burden imposed by the current administration.

The staggering increase of over one billion dollars in government debt, coupled with the administration’s failure to manage finances effectively, has placed an unbearable strain on the future of our nation, with every citizen feeling the weight of the country’s economic despair.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and the Saint Lucia Labour Party, Saint Lucia is grappling with the worst economy in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union. The administration’s inability to address the escalating violent crime, deteriorating essential services, stagnant job market, the high prices of fuel, groceries and electricity, the crisis in the healthcare system, and broken infrastructure has led to a grim social landscape and rough economic times.

The attempts to stifle freedom of speech and suppress dissent have only served to erode trust in the government, leaving the public feeling disenfranchised and desperate for change. The people deserve a government that listens, engages and uplifts not one that lies to, tries to intimidate and divide the people.

As the main opposition party, the United Workers Party has a monumental responsibility to galvanize and energize its base, while mobilizing the populace to demand accountability from a government that has mismanaged our nation’s affairs.

The completion of the selection of a full slate of candidates for the General Elections is crucial, not just as a strategic move, but as a demonstration of its preparedness to govern and a renewed commitment to genuine leadership.

The UWP must articulate its vision for a better St. Lucia, outlining macro policies and solutions that will resonate with the urgent needs of the people. The promised protest in November is not merely symbolic; it will be a vital expression of the collective frustration of a large majority of the people and a powerful platform to unify citizens in their quest for change.

The UWP must inspire confidence and actively engage the community in these efforts, demonstrating that a better tomorrow is within reach. It is essential that the party not only organises this demonstration but that it also leads by example, showing that it is committed to bringing about meaningful change.

The message to Prime Minister Pierre and the SLP administration must be crystal clear and uncompromising: the people of St. Lucia are suffering, and the government must recognise this painful reality. The well-being of our nation matters more than political manoeuvring. Change is not just an option; it has become a necessity.

To the UWP, this moment is critical. The people are calling for action and their call must not be ignored. It is time to rise to the occasion and prove that you are ready to lead. The eyes of the nation are upon you. By galvanizing your supporters and mobilizing public sentiment, you can take charge of shaping a future where Saint Lucia is no longer bound by stagnation and despair.

The time for inaction has passed. The people of Saint Lucia demand their voices be heard. Together, we must act decisively and ensure that our country’s future is not left to the whims of an ineffective government. It’s time for St. Lucia to unite, rise, and reclaim its destiny. The UWP must be bold and resolute in its demands while leading the people in protest action against this government. This is not the time for timidity. Enough talking; it’s time for action.

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