UWP’s Allen Chastanet: ‘We have not lost our purpose’ after election defeat

United Workers Party (UWP) Political Leader Allen Chastanet has formally conceded defeat following Monday’s general election, acknowledging the electorate’s decision and extending congratulations to Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP).

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The Labour Party largely triumphed in the elections, with them winning 14 seats out of the 17 in the House of Assembly. The UWP won one seat; Micoud South, the seat of party leader Allen Chastanet. This was one of the seats the UWP had won in 2021; the other one, Choiseul, held by Bradley Felix, was lost to Labour Party member Keithson Charles. Two independents, Stephenson King of Castries North, and Richard Frederick of Castries Central, were able to be reelected in their constituencies

In a calm and measured address to supporters, Chastanet said, “My friends, you the people have spoken. While the results were not what we hoped for, I accept them with humility, respect, and an unwavering love for our country.”

He offered praise for Pierre and his victorious team, signaling a smooth transition and respect for the democratic process.

Chastanet also expressed appreciation for the UWP’s slate of candidates and the party’s loyal base, noting that the campaign was fueled by “time, energy, and heart,” despite challenging political terrain.

“You lifted our message, you stood firm in difficult moments, and you reminded our nation what hope looks like,” he told supporters gathered after the results were announced.

In an emotional moment, Chastanet thanked the people of Micoud South, the constituency he has represented since 2016. Calling them his “extended family,” he said their trust and encouragement have been “one of the greatest honors” of his life.

“I will always be grateful,” he said.

Despite the loss, Chastanet sought to reassure supporters that the UWP’s mission remains intact. He described the moment not as a loss of purpose, but as the start of a “new chapter” requiring renewed commitment to the party’s core values of fairness, opportunity, unity, and dignity.

“We may not have won this election, but we have not lost our purpose,” he said. “We will get back up, we will keep working, and we will keep believing in the promise of this beautiful island we all call home.”

The concession signals the beginning of the UWP’s rebuilding process after a significant electoral setback. Chastanet’s tone of unity and forward momentum suggests that the party will first look inward before charting its next steps.

He ended his address with a call for national unity and blessings for the country: “Thank you, God bless you, and God bless Saint Lucia.”