Saint Lucia’s main opposition political party, the United Workers Party (UWP), is forging ahead ambitiously in its mission to unseat the incumbent regime.
The UWP’s political campaign machinery has been on fire with powerful slogans: You Deserve Better, Right the Wrong, Stamp Out Corruption, Improve Water Supply, Improve Port Operations, and simply put: Yellow is Our Code.
On Sunday, unyielding in the face of inclement weather, UWP supporters arrived in full party colors, ready to light up William Peter Boulevard, the traditional venue for UWP events.
Amidst lively musical interludes and vibrant entertainment, the UWP groups, backed by a formidable assembly of supporters from various constituencies, took to the main stage to present their candidates.
At Sunday’s event, the featured speakers delivered impactful presentations, robustly addressing the mismanagement of the economy, healthcare, youth employment, taxation, and crime, among other pressing issues.
– Peter Chiquot, candidate for Central Castries, vehemently condemned Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre for his gross mismanagement, neglect of constituency responsibilities, rampant youth joblessness, and a glaring lack of leadership as the national security minister.
– Marcella Johnson, candidate for Gros Islet, affirmed that life has become much harder, that the cost of living is soaring, and that the SLP has unequivocally failed the citizenry.
– Tommy Descartes, candidate for Southeast Castries, drew from his extensive experience in economics and business management to assert that the country is both vulnerable and fragile due to corruption and victimization.
– Rosh Clarke, a true son of Central Castries, who is intimately familiar with the challenges of street life, passionately advocated for greater youth advocacy and employment opportunities. He emphasized that young people require resources and “a place to call home,” built on integrity and discipline.
He called for a robust foundation for families and their future while challenging the current health insurance proposal in favour of an upgraded policy.
UWP leader Allen Chastanet received heartfelt endorsement from his young daughter, who praised her father’s dedication to family and country. She shared personal anecdotes of his support during her exam preparations, illustrating the care he extends to all members of the community.
In a powerful address towards the event’s conclusion, Allen Chastanet laid out a compelling vision for resilience and determination to tackle the challenges ahead. He underscored the necessity of self-esteem: believe in yourself and don’t let anyone deceive you.
Among other issues, Chastanet emphatically rejected the proposed GPH deal to upgrade and refurbish the country’s major sea ports, denouncing it as a sell-out that would benefit investors at the expense of Saint Lucia.
UWP’s outspoken PRO, Lenard “Spider” Montoute, stressed that the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) initiative falls short of what is required, demanding the necessity for valid policy changes.
Despite the political fervor, the WP Boulevard pulsated with vibrant party spirit as a host of artists and performers captivated the audience. The political atmosphere took an exhilarating turn as dynamic tunes and lyrics celebrated the candidates and party slogans.
UWP showcased top-tier performers including Ricky T, Menell, and Morgie, who lit up the stage with their electrifying performances.