Prime Minister Pierre has announced his Administration’s new Cabinet of Ministers at a swearing-in ceremony held on December 12th, 2025, at the House of Parliament in Castries. 

Prime Minister Philip J Pierre is the Minister for Finance, National Security and Justice, Constituency Development and People Empowerment.

The new portfolios are as follows: 

1. Hon. Dr Ernest Hilaire, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister for Tourism, Commerce, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture, and Heritage. 
2. Hon. Shawn Edward, Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services and Energy. 
3. Hon. Moses, Minister for Health, Wellness, and Nutrition 
4. Hon. Stephenson King, Senior Minister and Minister for the Public Service, Transport, Information and Utility Regulation. 
5. Hon. Alva Baptiste, Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs. 
6. Hon. Kenson Casimir, Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation. 
7. Hon. Richard Frederick, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Urban Renewal. 
8. Hon. Wayne Girard, Minister for Economic Development and the Youth Economy. 
9. Hon. Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Equity, Labour, Gender Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Welfare. 
10.  Hon. Jeremiah Norbert, Minister for Home Affairs, Crime Prevention, Conflict Resolution and People with Disabilities.  
11.  Hon. Danny Butcher, Minister in the Ministry of Education with Responsibility for Early Childhood Education, Continuing and Special Education and Digital Transformation. 
12.  Hon. Keithson ‘’Kiffo’’ Charles, Minister for Physical Development and Public Utilities. 
13.  Hon. John Paul Estephane, Minister in the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture, and Heritage. 
14.  Hon. Lisa Jawahir, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change. 
15.  Senator, Hon. Shanda Lee Harracksingh, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister. 

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre will officially swear in his new cabinet today, December 12th, at 2:30 p.m., marking the formal start of his administration’s second term following the recent general election.

The ceremony is expected to take place at Government House in the presence of key government officials, parliamentary members, and invited guests.

The event will formally announce the ministers responsible for guiding Saint Lucia’s policy and development priorities for the coming term.

Prime Minister Pierre, who leads the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), won a decisive victory in the December 1st general election, securing a strong mandate to implement his government’s agenda. The composition of the new cabinet is anticipated to reflect a mix of returning ministers and fresh faces, balancing experience with new perspectives to address national priorities.

“This is an important moment for our nation as we continue to advance our development goals, improve public services, and strengthen governance,” Prime Minister Pierre said in a statement ahead of the ceremony.

The swearing-in marks the formal launch of the government’s new mandate and is expected to be closely followed by the public and media. Observers anticipate that the cabinet appointments will signal the administration’s key policy focus areas for the upcoming years.

The ceremony will be covered by local media outlets, with highlights available across television, radio, and online platforms.

A sleek new high-speed vessel is charting its course through Caribbean waters, and it is already being hailed as a game changer for regional travel. 

The Topaze Express, a 400-passenger catamaran capable of reaching 52 kilometres per hour, made its debut in Saint Lucia this week. 

The vessel is the latest addition to FRS Caribbean’s fleet and is expected to significantly strengthen inter-island connections while supporting economic growth across the region.

Matthew Beaubrun, CEO of Cox and Company, emphasised the importance of bolstering sea travel options, especially given the constraints of regional air travel. 

“This is an important part of the business in Saint Lucia because with flights, there are limited air flights,” he explained. 

“We realised when we didn’t have enough vessels what was happening, and the people and the demand were there. So obviously the company was very proactive and responded now and added new vessels to the arrivals and departures, and supplied Saint Lucia with some more interconnectivity.”

Beaubrun described the new vessel as a timely and necessary enhancement to the region’s transportation network. 

“This would really help as an additional vessel for the connectivity,” he said. “And I’ve come to realize how important that is, the traffic between Saint Lucia and the connectivity between, because a lot of Saint Lucians and Martinicans and Guadeloupe and Dominicans come through the islands.”

He noted that the demand is not only rooted in travel convenience but in the web of relationships, commerce, and cultural exchange that binds the islands together. 

“So definitely they need to have that connectivity for relationships and trade and also for tourism as well,” he stated.

Beaubrun praised FRS Caribbean for its continued investment in regional transport solutions. “It’s important FRS is investing in the product, which is very, very important,” he added.

With its high-speed capabilities and large passenger capacity, the Topaze Express is poised to play a major role in strengthening ties among Caribbean islands, offering travellers a faster and more reliable way to move across the archipelago.

Castries is gearing up for a grander and more vibrant celebration this week as the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) unveils an expanded Festival of Light parade.

The annual tradition, held in honour of Saint Lucy, Patron Saint of Light, promises a dazzling showcase of lanterns, cultural performances, and community spirit that will illuminate the capital.

The Festival of Light is celebrated each year globally on December 13th, while Saint Lucia commences celebrations the day before. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of life.

Festivities begin in Saint Lucia early December with the popular Lantern Competition and culminate on December 12th, the eve of the Festival of Light, with the Parade of Lanterns through the streets of Castries, followed by a Christmas show, the illumination of Derek Walcott Square, and a fireworks display that draws large crowds.

This year, the CDF is placing greater emphasis on enhancing the parade experience. Kendal John, Communications Director at the Cultural Development Foundation, explained that the decision came after strong feedback from the public. 

“We’re going to have a focus more on the parade. Last year we received much commendation and favourable comments from the public and the diaspora regarding the parade. And so this year we said we’re going to extend the route of the parade,” he said.

According to John, the extended procession will “start at the Saab, the Beausejour playing field, and go out to the town, the Derek Walcott Square. Some elements will be going into the William Peter Boulevard.”

The festival will continue to highlight beloved traditions, especially those centred at Derek Walcott Square. 

John noted, “The traditional use of the Derek Walcott Square, where we’ll be using the bursting of bamboo. We have local bread making. We have Santa Claus giving free gifts to young children. And of course, the turning of the lights, all culminating in the fireworks display, which many citizens look forward to.”

One of the most anticipated features of the event is the lantern showcase. “Participants’ very intricately designed lanterns will be on display and part of the parade so Saint Lucians can see what those traditional lanterns look like,” John said.

He also expressed appreciation to partners who help sustain the national tradition. “We want to thank the corporate sponsors. We have M&C, FLOW, we have of course the Saint Lucia Government that ensures that every year Saint Lucians enjoy this traditional Festival of Light.”

With expanded routes, enriched cultural elements, and a strong community spirit, this year’s Festival of Light promises to shine even brighter across the streets of Castries.

Derek Walcott Square came alive on Friday as the Youth Economy Agency (YEA) hosted its second annual Marketplace, turning the historic space into a vibrant showcase of Saint Lucia’s young entrepreneurial talent. 

Forty youth-led businesses set up shop, offering everything from artisanal treats to creative handcrafted products, while receiving strong public support and a boost from international partners.

Business Development Officer at the YEA, Olivia JnBaptiste, said the event reflected the agency’s mission in action. 

“The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing how the youth economy has taken a client from point A to point B,” she explained. Walking through the showcase, she said she noticed tangible improvements across the board. 

“A lot of the clients have improved as far as their branding is concerned. I see they have upped their packaging as well. So that makes me feel fulfilled and it makes me feel that the Youth Economy Agency is doing something right.”

JnBaptiste said the agency’s investment in training has helped sharpen participants’ presentation marketing skills. 

“Last year, we did a digital marketing training program with the clients and we taught them how to create flyers, to incorporate branding in the small businesses. And I could say that we are seeing that paying off today with some of the exhibitors.”

Adding to the momentum was a special visit from Taiwanese Ambassador Nicole Su, who spent time exploring the booths and sampling the products. 

“This is very exciting because all the booths have very fascinating products,” she said. “I just bought a cupcake and then earlier on I had some juice. Really, really great.” 

She praised the creativity and skill on display, noting, “We have a lot of talent here. I saw some handicrafts and so on. A lot of talent that we need to showcase to our clients and make sure that people know how talented our young entrepreneurs are.”

The Marketplace forms part of the YEA’s broader effort to create new economic pathways for Saint Lucia’s youth, giving them visibility, mentorship, and hands-on experience in building sustainable businesses. 

Civil Service Association President Thecla Goodman spoke candidly on Monday about recent leadership challenges within the organisation, including the resignation of two executive board members and concerns over the scheduling of the CSA’s Annual General Meeting.

“As a leader, I am not expecting everybody to agree with what I say, what I do. I’m expecting us to work together. So we have butted heads on a couple of things, but to me the focus has to remain on our members. And that is where my focus has been, on doing what is best and what is right for our members,” Goodman said.

She acknowledged the pressures of holding executive positions within the CSA. 

“At CSA, once you take up those positions, you have to realise that these positions will become challenging. And people have the right, if it’s too challenging, to resign. And so I think that is what has happened. I wish the secretary and the assistant secretary treasurer well. And to note, there are so many people lined up now wanting to take up their positions so that CSA can continue moving forward,” she added.

Goodman also addressed reports of confusion regarding members’ attendance at the AGM.

“We usually write to the Public Service asking for time off for members to attend meetings. And there was some miscommunication between CSA and Public Service. When that was brought to my attention, I called the GS, and we had to take action right away because, you know, December month is a month that is very disturbed. So between the GS and I, we decided that we will reach out to Public Service to get the corrective letters sent out for permission from members to attend the AGM. And that date will be on Thursday, the 11th of December.”

Her remarks emphasised a focus on continuity and cooperation, assuring members that the CSA remains committed to serving their interests despite recent disruptions.

Saint Lucia has once again earned international acclaim, being named the world’s leading honeymoon destination by the World Travel Awards for 2025. The recognition, announced at a ceremony in Bahrain, marks the island’s eighth consecutive win since 2018 and the 17th time overall.

Geraine Geroges, Public Relations Manager at the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, expressed excitement over the achievement. 

“The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is pleased to announce that Saint Lucia is the world’s leading honeymoon destination for 2025. This is the 17th time that Saint Lucia has won this award and the 8th consecutive since 2018. So we are very excited to have received this award on the 6th December,” she said.

Geroges acknowledged the contributions of the island’s tourism partners and the local community in maintaining Saint Lucia’s reputation as a premier romantic getaway. 

“We really want to thank our industry partners and everybody who contributed to Saint Lucia’s tourism and our continued growth with our accolades,” she said. “Of course, earlier this year, we won the Caribbean’s leading honeymoon destination, which did put us in the running for the world’s leading honeymoon destination. And we also captured two travel awards in the romance category. So we’re really grateful for that. And it really speaks to the ethos of our Saint Lucia people and what it is Saint Lucia has to offer.”

The World Travel Awards are regarded as a benchmark of excellence in the global travel and tourism industry. Saint Lucia’s continued recognition underscores the island’s dedication to providing unparalleled experiences for couples seeking luxury, adventure, and romance.

Former Speaker of the House and radio host Claudius Francis has announced plans for legal action against certain media outlets, alleging that they have provided a platform for Kenneth Rijock to spread false claims of a “stolen election.”

Francis, who hosts the program Straight Up, made the announcement during the December 7th episode of the broadcast. 

“Who went to prison for money laundering for fraud and even in his own words, because he was not prepared to spend the next 20 years of his life in prison, he pled guilty in a pre-bargain and served only four years in prison. Today, that man is the authority utilized by some of our needy personalities to talk about the sanctity of our general elections,” he said.

Francis singled out Sky FM for permitting Rijock to make disparaging remarks. “But Sky FM, the mouthpiece of the United Workers’ Party did not! And they proceeded to allow Kenneth Rijock to say the worst things about me,” he stated.

He confirmed that legal measures are being prepared. 

“And my attorney in the Caribbean are both drafting letters to Sky FM and its owners. But one of the issues, and I hope Champagne is listening, I did an interview with Felix ‘Champagne’ Deterville where he said the equipment of Sky FM belongs to him. But Felix ‘Champagne’ Deterville, I have to tell you, you may have been locked out of the building, but the life coming from Sky FM still comes under your name. So I don’t know, you’ll have to sort it out with Chastanet and them, but I’m suing you. Absolutely, without hesitation. The host that was on at the time will also receive his documents and of course the station itself.”

Francis’s announcement signals a growing legal confrontation over the dissemination of claims surrounding the recent general elections.

Saint Lucia’s agricultural sector is set for renewed momentum as the Government of Saint Lucia and the Government of Indonesia reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation. 

The pledge was made during a high-level meeting in Castries, where both delegations reviewed progress and outlined priority areas for continued partnership.

The discussions highlighted work already completed under the joint agricultural roadmap. 

This includes assessments carried out by the Indonesian delegation, which examined opportunities to modernize coconut processing, upgrade equipment, and expand the acreage of coconut varieties suitable for oil production. Future collaboration is also expected to include mango, breadfruit, and other priority fruit processing beginning in 2026.

Director of Agricultural Services, Kemuel Jn Baptiste, said the meeting provided clear confirmation of shared goals. 

According to him, “this morning’s conversation was an affirmation, a confirmation of what is entailed in the roadmap.” He explained that the discussions focused on Saint Lucia’s commitment to providing staffing and other forms of assistance, while Indonesia will continue to supply technical support and resources. Jn Baptiste said the partnership involves “supporting through staff support and other support and the Indonesian government looking at providing a support in terms of plants and equipment.”

Representatives from Indonesia expressed strong confidence in the partnership and emphasized its strategic value. Indonesian team representative Henry Laksono noted the significance of working closely with Saint Lucia despite the geographical distance. 

He said, “as an overview, we are here to expand our cooperation with Saint Lucia and of course Saint Lucia has become our priority partner in the Caribbean.” Laksono added that “although we are 18,000 kilometers away, but of course as similarly developing nations, we must work together and collaborate.”

Both governments reaffirmed their intention to advance agricultural modernisation, increase production capacity, and boost value added opportunities for farmers as the partnership continues to deepen.

A military aircraft that landed at Hewanorra International Airport on Friday, December 5, raised public concern amid heightened regional military activity. 

However, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority has confirmed that the visit was solely for humanitarian purposes.

Karim Sifflet, Senior Manager for Marketing and Business Development at SLASPA, said the aircraft’s arrival was part of a charitable mission. 

According to him, “the sighting of the military aircraft that was at the Hewanorra International Airport on Friday, 5th of December, its purpose was to help distribute supplies to a charitable organization that the authorities are not in a position to disclose.” 

He added that the visit was unusual, stating that “it is not something that happens frequently” and that “this was just a one off basis.”

Sifflet explained that the aircraft remained on island long enough to complete its assignment. “The aircraft was on island for approximately 40 hours,” he confirmed.

He also stressed that the visit had no connection to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. 

“This military aircraft had no connection to what is going on in the geopolitical space between the tension between Venezuela, Trinidad and the USA,” Sifflet said. “The sole purpose was to distribute items to a charitable organization and the public should have no fear or concerns.”

SLASPA also referenced previous instances of specialized aircraft visiting Saint Lucia for non-military reasons. 

Sifflet recalled that in November 2024, “we had the hurricane aircraft tracker hunter” and noted that the authority held a community outreach activity at the time. He said, “We invited persons from the community of Vieux Fort to come take a tour of this aircraft, which provides valuable service in tracking hurricanes and providing information.”

SLASPA is encouraging the public to remain calm, reaffirming that the recent visit was strictly humanitarian and not linked to any regional military developments.