Kaiso Cop – the Bordelais Correctional Facility (BCF) representative, delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 Inter-Commercial House Calypso competition, clinching the Monarch title by just one point over defending champion Erny J.
Shaqelle Charlery, performing as Kaiso Cop, achieved first place at the highly anticipated event held at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday night.
The competition showcased tight results, with only a few points separating the top four contenders:
1st Place: Kaiso Cop – BCF – 388
2nd Place: Erny J – Saint Lucia Workers Credit Union (SLWCU) – 387
3rd Place: Eka – Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) – 367
4th Place: Lady J – Water & Sewerage Company (WASCO) – 361
Kaiso Cop captivated the audience with her impactful song, “Bordelais Sad Stories,” effectively sharing powerful workplace stories through her performance.
Slotted in at #8 during the first session, she energized the crowd with witty lyrics and a vibrant military-style costume.
Erny J, the reigning champion for the past two years, earned high praise for his lyrical strength but settled for second place this year. His dynamic performance of “One Last Time,” featuring a lively tune and boxer’s outfit and skit, was met with enthusiasm.
Eka Fergus, known as Eka, secured third place with an emotionally charged vocal showcase, opening the contest with her heartfelt song “Matters of the Heart.”
Other notable performances included Lady J’s “Roots Before Fruits,” while Sabina Mangal, aka Siwo, from the Ministry of Justice, energized the audience with “Snakes,” addressing hypocrisy in society.
Debut performer Miguel Emmanuel, known as Migz, from the Castries City Council (CCC), wowed fans with his lively rendition of “No Kamla.” Anselma Philip, aka An So, from the Saint Lucia Development Bank, performed “A Boss,” tackling themes of work ethics and leadership aspirations.
MC Scady aptly described the session as a “Staff Party,” reflecting the exuberance and enthusiasm of both performers and fans that kept the energy high throughout the evening, leading up to the nail-biting announcement of the results past midnight. – [ R.A].