Nomination Day erupted across Saint Lucia in a massive show of political force as supporters of rival candidates poured into the streets in colourful, carnival-style processions. From drumming to chanting crowds, the atmosphere signalled the official start of the battle for the December 1 election.
SLP Gros Islet MP Kenson Casimir said the turnout reflected the work his team has done in the constituency.
“The people behind me, they have seen the work over four years,” he said. He added that voters know “they elected a parliamentary representative that went to work immediately in Gros Islet” and that they are now nominating someone “who will do even more.”
He admitted he was not able to solve every problem, but added that “they know that we have worked and they have never seen so much work in the constituency in Gros Islet over four years.” He described the upcoming vote as “a very sweet victory coming on December 1.”
UWP candidate for Gros Islet Marcella Johnson outlined her priorities if elected.
“One of the first priorities is that Rodney Bay Highway, which is causing persons a lot of stress,” she said. Johnson added that traffic and unreliable water access must be addressed urgently. “We cannot get water into our taps,” she said.
She promised to consult experts and consider options such as desalination and rainwater harvesting. She also vowed that “day one, we will remove the health and security levy.”
Independent candidate for Castries Central Stanley Felix argued that communities surrounding the capital have been neglected.
“We need to improve on our sidewalks, need to improve on our transportation, we need to improve on the aesthetics of Castries Central,” he said.
He also suggested many supporters were absent because “a lot of them have to go to work” and others, he claimed, “are in Richard Frederick’s camp because they are getting paid to be there.”
The spirited celebrations highlighted the intensity of this election cycle, with candidates and supporters asserting confidence and demanding change.