The Early Election and the Unfinished Hospital: What Really Drove Philip J. Pierre’s Timing?

When Philip J. Pierre took office in July 2021, he looked the nation in the eye and made a defining promise: St. Jude Hospital will be delivered. Not patched up. Not half-done. Not talked about. Delivered.

Fast-forward 4 years and 5 months later, instead of presenting a fully functional hospital ready to accept patients, the Prime Minister called a snap election — almost a full year early — and handed over what is essentially a completed building, with the critical step of commissioning pushed into the future.

It’s a political move that has left many Saint Lucians scratching their heads. The question practically asks itself:

Why rush to elections if you are so close to finishing the job?
Why not stay the full term, commission St. Jude properly, and run on a completed promise?

Something about this timing… doesn’t sit right.

Let’s dig deeper.

1. The Building vs. The Hospital: A Subtle but Powerful Distinction

Politically, handing over a building is far more convenient than handing over a hospital. A building is a photo op. A ribbon-cutting moment. A shiny visual for campaign posters.

But a commissioned hospital?
That requires:

• staffing
• equipment installation
• safety certification
• operational readiness
• completion of minor but essential systems
• and accountability for any delays

All of these can be scrutinized. All of these can become weaknesses.

So instead, the country got the easier version — the building without the burden of operational responsibility.

2. The Early Election: Political Strategy or Strategic Avoidance?

Let’s be honest:
Calling an early election is never a coincidence. It is always a calculation.

Here are three likely motivations:

A. Strike While the Optics Look Good

A gleaming building at St. Jude, completed by Rayneau Gajadhar and CIE, offers strong visuals for the campaign trail. It allows the government to say:

“We delivered what the last administration couldn’t.”

Even if the use of the building is still months away.

B. Avoid the Risk of Commissioning Delays

Commissioning a hospital is complex. If something dragged beyond 2025 or ran into technical hurdles, it would hand the Opposition a perfect election weapon.

By calling early elections, the PM avoids that risk altogether.

C. Control the Narrative Before Economic Pressures Deepen

Cost of living, fuel prices, electricity frustration, and social tension have been building. Heading into 2026 with these issues unresolved could hurt the government far more than going now — with a symbolic victory in their hands.

3. Was an Early Election Necessary?

Constitutionally, no.

The current term legally runs until September 2026. That means:

• 10 more months to finalize St. Jude
• 10 more months to commission it
• 10 more months to walk into elections with a ribbon cut, staff hired, and the South finally seeing services restored

Instead, the country is being asked to elect a government before the job is done.

If the goal was truly to complete St. Jude fully, time was on their side.

So why give the people a building instead of a functioning hospital?

4. The Rat That Many Saint Lucians Smell

Saint Lucians are not naïve. Across communities, WhatsApp chats, radio talk shows, and social media timelines, the sentiment is building:

“Something not adding up.”

A few of the red flags the public is raising:

• If the hospital was so close to commissioning, why not finish it?
• Why call an early election when you are months away from your biggest political victory?
• Is the government avoiding something behind the scenes — technical reports, readiness issues, approval delays, internal conflicts?
• Was the handover timed for votes, not health care?

People are voicing what many are thinking:
The timing feels more political than patriotic.

5. The Bigger Question: What Do Saint Lucians Deserve?

Saint Lucians have waited 15 long years for a proper hospital in the South.
Fifteen years of pain, distrust, and political ping-pong.

They deserve not only a building.
Not only a handover ceremony.
Not only a campaign talking point.

They deserve a fully functioning hospital, complete, commissioned, staffed, and serving the people.

Not promises of “later.”
Not “after elections.”
Not “coming soon.”

Final Word: A Political Masterstroke or a Strategic Escape?

Calling early elections while handing over an incomplete hospital opens up a deep national conversation about accountability, priorities, and political timing.

Whether this decision was:

• a bold calculated move,
• a defensive maneuver,
• or a way to avoid the pressure of full commissioning…

…one thing is clear:

Saint Lucians will judge whether they received a hospital or just a headline.

And in this election, optics may not be enough.

Are Voters Really Being Dumped in Choiseul? A Calm Look at the Allegation — and the Bigger Picture**

In recent days, whispers have grown louder about voters from the Laborie constituency being “dumped” into Choiseul/Saltibus. It’s the kind of allegation that spreads fast, especially in the heat of an election season. And while emotions can flare, it’s important for our community to sift through the noise and understand what’s actually happening — or what might appear to be happening — before drawing conclusions.

YRight now, there is no verified public evidence confirming large-scale transfers of voters from Laborie into Choiseul/Saltibus. That does not mean concerns should be dismissed; it simply means the allegation remains unproven. What we can do, however, is place the issue in a wider national context — because Choiseul is not the only district where people are raising eyebrows over voter activity.

1. Election Seasons Always Bring High Suspicion Levels

Across Saint Lucia, every election cycle brings its share of claims: bussing, boundary games, fake addresses, and mysterious spikes in polling-division numbers. These concerns are not unique to Choiseul/Saltibus. They have surfaced in Castries Central, Dennery, Vieux Fort, Gros Islet — almost everywhere. Historically, many of these accusations turn out exaggerated or misunderstandings of normal population movement.

The point? Allegations alone aren’t proof — but they should prompt responsible inquiry.

2. Voter Transfers Happen Regularly — and Legally

People move. People change addresses. Housing projects open. Families shift. Young adults relocate to live with relatives or partners. These real-life mobility patterns often cause sudden changes in constituency voter lists. And unless the Electoral Department sees evidence of intentional wrongdoing, these transfers are treated as routine updates.

So before we jump to the political explanation — that voters are being “dumped” — it’s important to consider the personal-mobility explanation too.

3. Other Constituencies Are Seeing Movement Too

The Choiseul/Saltibus conversation did not appear in isolation. Reports from other parts of the island suggest:

• Registrations rising sharply in some districts
• Transfers increasing as election day approaches
• Parties on both sides accusing the other of strategic registration

This pattern is common worldwide — parties mobilise supporters to register early, update their address, and ensure they appear on the correct list. When this is done transparently and in accordance with the law, it is completely normal.

When done deceptively, it becomes voter manipulation.

That is why facts — not rumours — matter.

4. Why Choiseul/Saltibus Must Stay Alert but Calm

Choiseul/Saltibus is a swing-heavy constituency with volatile margins. Any perceived shift triggers alarm quickly. That is understandable. But instead of panic, here’s the productive approach:

✔ Ask for clarity from the Electoral Department

The public is entitled to know the number of new registrations, transfers, and verifications.

✔ Compare this year’s polling-division numbers with past lists

If there is a spike, the numbers will show it.

✔ Demand transparency, not chaos

Parties, agents, and community leaders must work together to ensure integrity — not weaponise suspicion.

✔ Keep the focus on voter education

The real danger to Choiseul is not imported voters — it’s rejected ballots and low turnout.

The Bottom Line

Right now, the allegation that voters are being moved from Laborie into Choiseul/Saltibus remains unverified. What is clear is that Saint Lucia is experiencing heightened election-season anxiety across multiple constituencies, and Choiseul is part of that national mood.

Rather than jumping to conclusions, let’s do what strong communities do:

• Watch carefully
• Ask questions
• Demand transparency
• Stay informed
• And above all — make sure every eligible Choiseulien casts a valid vote on December 1st

If solid evidence emerges, it deserves a full, serious investigation. Until then, awareness, vigilance, and calm analysis are our best tools.

Before You Vote: The Qualities Every Electorate Must Look For in a Candidate

As the campaign season heats up and political promises fill the air, it’s easy to get swept away by charisma, color, and catchy slogans. But elections aren’t beauty contests or popularity shows—they’re about leadership, integrity, and the future of our communities.

Before casting that all-important vote, the electorate must take a hard look at who they’re voting for and what they truly stand for. Here are the essential qualities and traits every voter should look for in a candidate:

1. Integrity Above All

A candidate’s integrity is the foundation of trust. Look for someone who has a proven record of honesty and transparency, both in public and private life.

If a candidate twists facts, dodges questions, or changes stories to suit the moment, that’s a red flag. Leadership without integrity is leadership headed for corruption.

2. Vision and Competence

A good leader doesn’t just criticize what’s wrong—they clearly outline how to make things right.

The electorate must ask: Does this candidate have a realistic plan? Can they manage resources wisely? Do they understand the needs of the people they wish to serve?

A vision without competence is just talk. Competence without vision is chaos.

3. Commitment to Service, Not Self

Public service is exactly that—service. A candidate must show genuine concern for people, not personal gain.

Watch how they treat ordinary citizens when cameras aren’t rolling. Do they listen? Do they follow up?

A self-serving politician will always find excuses; a servant-leader will always find solutions.

4. Courage and Accountability

It takes courage to speak truth to power, to stand up for what’s right even when it’s unpopular.

A true leader doesn’t blame others or hide behind committees—they take responsibility.

Voters should ask: When faced with tough decisions, will this person do what’s right or what’s convenient?

5. Emotional Intelligence

Leadership isn’t just about intelligence—it’s about empathy.

The best candidates are those who understand people’s struggles, communicate respectfully, and stay calm under pressure.

A candidate who listens more than they speak and values dialogue over division will always make better decisions.

6. Track Record and Community Connection

Promises are easy to make, but past actions speak louder than words.

What has the candidate done for the community before election time? Have they shown up only when votes are needed?

A person who has consistently contributed to community growth—without political reward—is someone worth trusting with greater responsibility.

7. Respect for Law and Institutions

Every democracy thrives when its leaders respect the rule of law, independent institutions, and due process.

Beware of candidates who think they’re above the system or use power to intimidate or silence others.

A good leader strengthens institutions—not weakens them.

In Closing: Choose Wisely

Elections decide the direction of a nation. The next time a candidate comes knocking, don’t just listen to what they say—watch what they’ve done, and how they live.

Vote not for the loudest voice, but for the most consistent one.

Vote for character, not color.

Vote for vision, not vanity.

Vote for service, not slogans.

The future of your community depends on it

A Batting Rethink Is Overdue for the West Indies Team

For decades, the name West Indies cricket carried an aura of fear, respect, and admiration. Bowlers like Holding, Ambrose, and Walsh brought thunder, but the brilliance of batsmen like Viv Richards, Brian Lara, and Shivnarine Chanderpaul defined the team’s soul. Today, that sparkle has dimmed — and it’s becoming painfully clear: a serious rethink of our batting approach is long overdue.

The Problem Isn’t Just Technique — It’s Mindset

Modern cricket demands adaptability, patience, and smart shot selection. Too often, West Indies batters collapse in clusters, playing rash strokes at critical junctures. The power-hitting culture, while exciting in T20s, has seeped into Test and ODI formats where restraint and situational awareness matter most. Cricket isn’t just about sixes — it’s about surviving sessions, building partnerships, and showing discipline.

The truth is, the regional circuit no longer molds players for the long game. Young talents are being fast-tracked through franchise leagues, where entertainment trumps endurance. As a result, many promising batsmen arrive on the international stage without the foundation or patience to construct a big innings.

Where the System Is Failing

The domestic setup has struggled to produce batters who can consistently perform under pressure. Weak pitches, limited exposure to quality bowling, and inconsistent coaching structures all contribute to this. The regional tournaments must become a true breeding ground — not just a formality.

Investment in mental conditioning, data analysis, and technical mentorship must become non-negotiable. Why can’t each territory have a batting academy led by a former great? Imagine a structure where players are groomed by legends like Lara or Sarwan, learning to build innings the Caribbean way — with flair and fight.

A Call for Leadership and Vision

The West Indies Cricket Board and coaching staff must stop papering over cracks. Changing captains or shuffling the order won’t fix the deeper issues. The team needs a clear batting philosophy — one that values temperament as much as talent.

Players must be taught that every run matters. Whether it’s grinding in a Test match or pacing an ODI chase, the approach must be thoughtful, not impulsive. Leadership must inspire pride in wearing maroon — not just participation in another tournament.

The Way Forward

A batting rethink means more than technical tweaks. It’s a cultural shift — from carefree hitting to calculated aggression. The Caribbean still breeds natural talent, but talent without structure leads to waste.

If the West Indies want to reclaim their cricketing glory, they must invest in the art of batting again. Discipline must become fashionable, patience must become powerful, and pride must return to the crease.

The world still remembers the roar of the maroon. It’s time our batsmen learned to make it echo again — through courage, craft, and consistency.

One Rule for All: A Call for Fairness at the Choiseul Parish Cemetery

For decades, the Choiseul parish cemetery has stood as sacred ground — a place where families lay their loved ones to rest with dignity, reverence, and spiritual closure. But today, that sense of sacred fairness is under serious threat. What should be a space governed by order, compassion, and transparency has instead fallen into confusion, inconsistency, and troubling signs of favoritism.

The issue centers on the allocation of tomb spaces — a matter the Church itself previously admitted had become unmanageable due to years of poor planning. Tombs were placed haphazardly, permissions were issued spontaneously, and the cemetery evolved without a proper long-term plan. As a result, the parish administration later announced that no new tombs would be permitted moving forward. A difficult but understandable decision… if it were applied fairly.

“A cemetery is sacred ground — not a playground for favoritism.

 One rule, one standard, one people.”

But this is where the problem lies.

Despite the official policy, multiple families have been flatly denied permission to build tombs for their recently departed loved ones — while, at the very same time, other individuals are quietly being granted approval. These permissions are not publicly announced, not explained, and not justified. Yet they continue.

This selective treatment is not only unfair — it is deeply disrespectful to the grieving families who have had to navigate their loss without clarity, compassion, or consistency.

No parish should ever operate in secrecy or favoritism, especially when the matter involves the final resting place of its own people.

What’s Good for One Should Be Good for All

The Choiseul community is not asking for special treatment. Parishioners are not demanding privileges. All they are asking for is fairness — the same standard applied across the board without exception, preference, politics, or quiet backdoor decisions.

If the Church’s position is that the cemetery is full, then it must be full for everyone — not full for some and open for others.

If new tombs cannot be constructed, then no one should be allowed to build.

And if there is still space — or if certain plots can still be approved — then all parishioners must have equal access to that opportunity.

Anything less is a betrayal of trust.

A Parish Must Reflect Its People

Parishioners are the heart of the Church. They are the ones who support the parish, attend Mass, volunteer, tithe, maintain traditions, and sustain church life from generation to generation. To see their families treated unfairly in their hour of mourning is not only hurtful — it is unacceptable.

We say this with respect, but with unwavering clarity:
the administration of the Choiseul parish must correct this imbalance immediately.

• Either reinstate a fair, transparent approval process for all parishioners…

• Or stop granting permissions altogether, without exceptions, without favorites, without secrecy.

The community deserves honesty and consistency. Families deserve the right to bury their loved ones without politics or favoritism. And the Church, above all, must uphold the principles it teaches — justice, compassion, equality, and truth.

A Final Word to the Parish Administration

This message is not written out of anger, but out of commitment to fairness and love for the community. People simply want what is right: one rule for everyone. If the cemetery is closed, let it be closed for all. If space exists, let the entire parish have equal access.

Because what is good for the geese must also be good for the gander.

The people are watching.
And they are asking, respectfully but firmly, for the Choiseul parish to do the right thing.

“Justice is not justice when it applies to some and not to all. The parish must rise to the standard it preaches.”

DAY 2: The Economic Scorecard — Growth or Recovery?

From Promises to Reality — A Citizen’s Look at the SLP Record

Published on: November 12, 2025
By: Choiseul on the Move Editorial Team

The Numbers That Tell a Story

The Saint Lucia Labour Party’s (SLP) From Promises to Reality report opens with an impressive headline:

“Saint Lucia’s economy is the largest in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, representing over one-quarter of total GDP.”

It proudly cites three consecutive years of positive primary balances, a reduction of outstanding payables from $130 million to $30 million, and steady economic growth between 3.9% and 4.9% in 2023–2024.

At first glance, it’s a compelling narrative — an image of strong fiscal discipline and stability under Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. But dig a little deeper, and the question emerges: Is this true growth, or simply recovery from crisis?

Growth vs. Recovery: Understanding the Context

When the administration took office in July 2021, the economy was in freefall — a staggering 22.9% decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The following years saw inevitable rebound growth across the region, not just in Saint Lucia.

So while 2022 and 2023 recorded double-digit expansions, economists warn that such numbers largely represent a “bounce back effect” — a recovery of what was lost, rather than new growth.

In reality, Saint Lucia’s GDP in constant terms is only now returning to pre-pandemic levels. Tourism, construction, and public expenditure have been the main engines, but private sector investment remains sluggish and inflation continues to erode disposable income.

Debt Management and Fiscal Balances

The manifesto report highlights a $95 million primary balance surplus in FY 2023/24, compared to a –$117 million deficit in 2021/22. This is indeed a major fiscal turnaround, aided by the removal of arrears, increased revenue collection, and a sharp reduction in capital expenditure delays.

However, much of this success stems from record remittances and inflation-driven VAT revenue, not necessarily expanded production or exports. Meanwhile, the public debt remains around $4 billion, hovering near 80% of GDP — still above regional sustainability thresholds.

The government deserves credit for discipline, but the challenge ahead is growth-led balance, not austerity-led balance.

Employment and Productivity

The report celebrates record employment of 97,000 people and an 11% unemployment rate in early 2024, the lowest on record. Yet, many of these jobs fall under short-term contracts, STEP projects, or public service absorption, not private enterprise expansion.

Saint Lucia’s productivity index has not seen significant improvement, and youth unemployment—though reduced—remains double the national average. Without productivity growth, wage increases and cost-of-living pressures could quickly cancel out these statistical wins.

Where the Economy Feels It Most

Ask the ordinary Saint Lucian: does this feel like a thriving economy?
The answers are mixed. Prices for fuel, groceries, and basic goods remain high; electricity and transportation eat into wages; and the much-touted tax relief barely offsets the new 2.5% Health and Security Levy.

In other words, macroeconomic success hasn’t yet translated into microeconomic relief.

Our Takeaway

The Pierre administration deserves recognition for stabilizing finances and restoring investor confidence. But it’s misleading to label this a “thriving economy.”

What we’re seeing is recovery, not revolution — the regaining of balance after crisis, not the leap toward transformation promised in 2021.

Tomorrow on Day 3

We dive into the heart of every kitchen-table conversation — Cost of Living & Tax Relief: VAT Removed, but Prices Rising?

Can tax cuts truly outweigh rising inflation? And is the average Saint Lucian really keeping more money in their pocket? Stay tuned.

Two Visions, One Constituency: Bradley vs Kiffo and the Future of Choiseul/Saltibus

As election fever slowly builds across the island, the people of Choiseul/Saltibus find themselves at the heart of a fascinating political crossroads. On one side stands Bradley Felix, the seasoned parliamentarian with a track record of calm leadership and measured governance. On the other, Keithson “Kiffo” Charles, the newcomer with a bold message of renewal and a promise to end what he calls “a season of silence.”

Both men present distinct visions for the constituency — one grounded in continuity, the other in change. But what do their messages really say about the kind of leadership each offers?

🟨 Bradley Felix: Steady Hands, Proven Path

Felix’s message is simple: results over rhetoric. His vision emphasizes continuity, inclusiveness, and a quiet strength born of experience. In his recent interview with Lisa Joseph, he reminded voters of what was achieved between 2016 and 2021, urging them to “sift through the fluff and the bluff” and focus on tangible results.

He positions himself as:

• A non-discriminatory representative who serves all constituents, regardless of political affiliation.

• A tested leader who knows how to navigate the system to bring development to Choiseul.

• A man focused on family values and youth, believing progress must be sustainable and rooted in community strength.

• Someone who wants to keep Choiseul high on the national agenda, ensuring continued investment and attention.

Felix’s tone reflects confidence, stability, and pride — a belief that leadership should be about quiet delivery rather than noisy confrontation.

🟥 Keithson “Kiffo” Charles: The Sound of Renewal

In contrast, Kiffo’s maiden speech was fiery, passionate, and people-driven. He declared that “the season of silence is over,” positioning himself as the voice of a constituency ready to reclaim its influence.

Kiffo’s promises centered on renewal, opportunity, and social empowerment, including:

• Creating jobs and economic opportunities for youth and local entrepreneurs.

• Revitalizing roads, health centers, and community infrastructure.

• Supporting farmers and fishers with better access to tools and markets.

• Making education and skills training a top priority.

• Promoting unity across political lines, while holding leadership accountable.

His vision taps into emotion — one that speaks to those who feel left out or unheard. It’s the voice of renewal versus the comfort of stability.

⚖️ The Core Difference: Continuity vs Change

At the heart of this political duel is a simple question:

Do the people of Choiseul/Saltibus want to continue building on what exists, or do they want to start fresh with new energy and ideas?

Bradley Felix represents the continuation of a known formula — steady governance, gradual development, and experience in navigating the national system.
Kiffo Charles represents the break from the old, the emergence of a younger, louder generation eager to leave a mark.

🌴 What the Voters Must Consider

Voters will have to decide which vision best aligns with their lived reality.
Do they feel progress has been steady enough under Bradley’s stewardship?
Or do they share Kiffo’s view that the people’s voices have been ignored for too long?

Either way, the upcoming election promises to be one of the most defining moments in Choiseul’s political story — not just about personalities, but about the direction of leadership for the next decade.

✍️ Final Thought

Both men love Choiseul. Both claim to serve without discrimination. Yet their roads to the same destination couldn’t be more different.
Whether voters choose the calm of continuity or the energy of change, one truth remains — Choiseul/Saltibus is awake, alert, and ready to make its voice heard.