Castries, Saint Lucia – August 16, 2025 — The United Workers Party’s (UWP) National Women’s Arm has taken aim at Castries Central MP Richard Frederick, accusing him of turning his weekly talk show into a platform for tearing down women in public life.
The backlash came after Frederick’s programme on Thursday, August 14, where he singled out veteran journalist Lisa Joseph, questioning her professionalism and dismissing her as politically biased. He also directed fire at Marcella Johnson, the UWP’s candidate for Gros Islet, making what the Women’s Arm described as “malicious allegations” about her private life.
In a statement released the following day, the Women’s Arm said the remarks were part of a troubling pattern. “This type of behavior crosses every boundary of decency and demonstrates a dangerous pattern of targeting women who dare to stand, speak, or serve in public life,” the group declared.
According to the statement, Frederick’s commentary has become less about politics and more about personal attacks. “These repeated attacks form part of a weekly trend where women are belittled and undermined. This is unacceptable from any public figure, let alone a Member of Parliament who ought to set a higher standard of respect and responsibility,” it said.
The Women’s Arm urged citizens and civil society groups to speak out, warning that unchecked intimidation corrodes democratic values. “Our democracy cannot thrive where intimidation and character assassination are normalized,” the group added.
Frederick, who has long been known for his fiery style on radio and television, has often clashed with political opponents. But this latest confrontation has sharpened the spotlight on his rhetoric, especially when directed at women.
“This isn’t just about party politics,” the Women’s Arm insisted. “It’s about the space women occupy in journalism, politics, and leadership—and the respect they deserve.”
The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting women in public life, promising to push for a political culture rooted in “respect, integrity, and equality.”
As of Friday evening, August 15, Frederick had not responded publicly to the criticisms.