When Dr. Kenny Anthony made his announcement a week ago, about not seeking re-election, it caught some by surprise. The Vieux Fort South Parliamentary Representative spoke to his constituents as the lone speaker on Wednesday May 21st, 2025.
For his part, the former Prime Minister explained the reasoning behind his decision, also citing his age, the fact that he has been undefeated in his constituency in six consecutive elections, accomplishing quite a bit in his 28-year political career.
Dr Anthony, a former CARICOM Secretariat General Council, made it clear that he was not accompanied by other SLP politicians and he was the lone speaker on the night because he requested it that way. He clarified that it was necessary because he wanted to have a “personal conversation” with his constituents.
Just as the dust was beginning to settle on Dr. Anthony’s recent announcement, there is a suggestion that his lone performance on Wednesday May 21st was as a result of widespread betrayal within the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP).
This pronouncement came from former Castries South East Parliamentary Representative Guy Joseph. The former MP was speaking at Sunday night’s United Workers Party (UWP) Laborie meeting. He said, “Pierre has betrayed Kenny and the Labour Party, because many of the hierarchy in the Labour Party do not want Richard Frederick in the Labour Party.”
Joseph insisted that the Labour Party was in trouble and “the last glimmer of hope was Kenny Anthony.” Joseph also referenced Dr. Anthony’s comments about reserving the right to speak freely as possible evidence of a rift in the SLP. Speaking at the May 21st meeting, Dr Anthony did reiterate his commitment to the party and his constituency, and said he will continue to serve Vieux Fort South even as four possible candidates are being vetted in a bid to find his replacement.
Attending to other issues, Guy Joseph offered himself to the government to answer any and all questions about his tenure in government. He said he challenged Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire to discuss the GPH deal but has yet to receive a response.