St. Lucians head to polls to elect new government on Monday

St. Lucians go to the polls on Monday to elect a new government, with both major parties appealing to voters and seeking divine guidance in the process.

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Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre, leading the St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) into a general election for the second consecutive time, remains confident that his party will maintain or expand its 13-seat hold from the July 2021 election.

“St. Lucia, tomorrow we make our voices heard. Make a plan to vote. Ensure that you know the location of your polling station. The only way to ensure continued progress for all, is to put the X next to the STAR,” Pierre wrote on Facebook. He added, “As we approach tomorrow’s polls, Monday, December 1st, we are reminded by Psalm 33:12 that ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.’ This moment calls us to reflect on the future we desire for our families, our communities, and our beloved St. Lucia.”

Opposition leader Allen Chastanet, heading the United Workers Party (UWP), also sought divine intervention, urging voters to choose leaders who would uplift the nation. “Bless our election workers, our officers, and every citizen who will cast a vote. Let unity triumph over division, hope over fear and truth over confusion. Lord, watch over St. Lucia. May tomorrow bring clarity, calm and a better future for all,” he wrote. Speaking at the party’s final rally in Choiseul, Chastanet said, “We have the right team that is going to develop St. Lucia and bring you hope once again.”

Political observers noted that several factors could influence voter decisions, including national leadership, parliamentary representation, candidate quality, and party loyalty. The Electoral Department reported 44 candidates and eight independents contesting the election, though the contest is widely regarded as a straight fight between the SLP and UWP.

Independent candidates Richard Frederick and Stephenson King, both former UWP members who previously won Castries Central and Castries North, are expected to face stiffer competition this year, with Frederick endorsed by former prime minister Michael “Mikey” Pilgrim, who urged voters to reject candidates “who lack the integrity and discipline required for public office.”

The elections will be observed by CARICOM and OAS teams, with 180,000 registered voters. Chief Elections Officer Herman St. Helen said registration surged following the announcement of the election date, particularly among young voters. Turnout in the last general election in 2021 was just over 51 percent, continuing a long-term decline in voter participation.

Both Pierre and Chastanet have urged citizens to exercise their franchise. Pierre emphasized that the SLP’s manifesto reflects the lived experiences of ordinary St. Lucians, focusing on dignity, equity, and opportunity. Chastanet called on voters to “be prepared, go early, stay late, and ensure your voice is heard to bring about change in the country.”