Why the SLP Should Call Elections Now—Not in 2026

In politics, timing is everything. And for the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), the clock may be ticking louder than they realize. While the next general election isn’t constitutionally due until 2026, the smart move—the strategic move—is to go to the polls early.

Here’s why.

1. The Tariff Time Bomb

Saint Lucia’s economy doesn’t operate in a bubble. Global currents—especially U.S. trade and tariff policies—can create ripples that become tidal waves for small island states like ours. With America’s shifting trade posture and unpredictable economic cycles, there’s a real risk that by 2026, external shocks could hit our already vulnerable economy hard.

If inflation spikes, food and fuel prices soar, or regional trade falters, the fallout could stain the SLP’s record, whether fair or not. Better to face voters now, while the economic outlook is still relatively stable and manageable.

2. A Window on Unemployment

Let’s give credit where it’s due—the SLP has made progress in tackling unemployment, especially among youth. But let’s be real: employment gains take time to solidify, and perception often lags behind reality. If the party waits until 2026 and job creation stalls or becomes overshadowed by other issues, all that progress could be lost in the noise.

Striking while there’s still momentum gives the SLP a chance to own the narrative: “We promised jobs—and we delivered.”

3. The Chaos Card: Disasters, Scandals, and the Unknown

Politics is always one scandal or storm away from collapse. Natural disasters, global health crises, or even internal political missteps can change everything overnight. Waiting two more years increases the odds of something going wrong. And when chaos strikes, voters don’t always judge calmly—they judge whoever’s in charge.

An early election lets the SLP lead from a position of strength before the chaos card is drawn.

4. Opposition Rebuilding? Not Yet.

The opposition is still trying to find its footing. The United Workers Party (UWP) remains fragmented, with no clear leader who can rival Philip J. Pierre’s steady image. But give them another year or two, and they might just surprise everyone with a rejuvenated team and a sharper message.

Strike while the opposition is still sharpening their pencils—not when they’ve finished writing their comeback script.

5. Public Sentiment Is a Moving Target

Right now, the mood on the ground is mixed but not hostile. The SLP still has political capital—but it’s not infinite. Voter fatigue, rising expectations, and social media firestorms can erode goodwill quickly. The sooner the party gives the people a chance to renew their mandate, the more control they have over the conversation.

The Bottom Line: It’s About Control

Calling elections early isn’t an act of fear—it’s an act of foresight. It gives the SLP a chance to define the terms of the battle, energize its base, and remind Saint Lucians of why they entrusted this government with power in the first place.

Waiting until 2026 is a gamble. Acting now? That’s smart politics.

Our Athletes Deserve More Than Lip Service

A piece by Silvanius,Fontenard on his facebook page, deserves a comment from "Choiseul on the Move". Every medal‑winning smile you see on the podium hides months—often years—of quiet sacrifice by families who shoulder training fees, airfare, lodging, and specialist coaching. Jady’s father footing the full bill for his daughter’s attachment in Jamaica is just the latest proof that too many of our champions-in‑waiting are bank‑rolled by personal savings, bake‑sales, and community raffles—not by the ministries that claim the glory after a win.

Where Was the Support for CARIFTA?

We sent a lean squad to Trinidad this year, and yes, they shone—but imagine the medal tally if our best prospects abroad had been flown in. The airline ticket that might have put another flag‑draped teenager on the podium costs less than one minister’s per‑diem on an overseas “fact‑finding” trip. Priorities matter, and this one was missed by a mile.

Taxpayers Pay—Ministers Take the Bow

Let’s be clear: every cleat, shot‑put, or physiotherapy session funded by government comes from the public purse. It’s our money. So when officials boast, they’re essentially applauding themselves for spending what we contributed. Real leadership means building transparent systems where athletes can apply for clearly advertised grants, travel stipends, and medical coverage—no insider phone calls or political “blessings” required.

Cut the Leakage, Fund the Future

The Auditor General’s reports read like a sieve—projects over‑invoiced, contracts mysteriously split, and basic procurement rules twisted into knots. Plug just 10 percent of that leakage and we could bankroll:

• A National Youth Service offering coaching apprenticeships, sports‑science internships, and community outreach stipends.
• A Travel & Training Fund that automatically subsidises regional meets and overseas attachments once an athlete hits qualifying standards.
• Community sports hubs—multi‑use courts, strength rooms, and rehab clinics—staffed by graduates of the Youth Service.

Walking the Talk

Until those safeguards are in place, every congratulatory photo‑op feels hollow. Let’s challenge our leaders to publish a quarterly breakdown of sports expenditures: who got what, when, and why. Sunshine is free—so let it shine on the numbers.

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Bottom line: we’re not begging; we’re demanding equity. If Government truly champions youth and sport, let the budgets, boarding passes, and bursaries prove it—because talent alone can’t buy a plane ticket, and passion doesn’t pay hotel bills.

Saint Lucia Deserves Better: Why Language Should Never Be a Weapon in Politics"

Recently on his weekly program “Can I Help You,” Minister Richard Frederick made a startling and frankly disappointing claim—that Allen Chastanet, the Leader of the Opposition, is unfit to be Prime Minister of Saint Lucia because he does not speak fluent Kweyol.

Yes, you read that right. In the middle of all the pressing national concerns—crime, unemployment, cost of living, education—our Minister chose to take aim at someone’s ability to speak a dialect.

Now, let’s make one thing clear: Saint Lucian Creole is a beautiful, important part of our heritage. It deserves respect, preservation, and promotion. But to weaponize it as a political litmus test? That is something else entirely. That is elitist. That is divisive. And it carries with it a subtle, yet unmistakable, tincture of racism.

Let’s call this what it is—small island politics dressed up as cultural pride.

To suggest that a Saint Lucian-born citizen who is legally, constitutionally, and democratically elected is “unfit” for leadership because of how he speaks—or doesn’t speak—a language is dangerous rhetoric. It creates an “us vs. them” mentality in a country that needs unity more than ever.

Should we now disqualify citizens who grew up abroad? Who speak English as their first language? Who look different, sound different, or come from different economic backgrounds?

This isn't just an attack on Allen Chastanet. It's a message—whether intentional or not—to every Saint Lucian who may not speak Kweyol fluently: you don’t belong, you’re not Saint Lucian enough.

That is not leadership. That is not patriotism. That is prejudice.

Mr. Frederick, you are a seasoned politician. You know better. And Saint Lucia deserves better.

The true mark of leadership is the ability to serve all people—regardless of dialect, accent, or ancestry. If we start measuring our leaders by their fluency in Creole instead of their integrity, vision, and results, we are headed down a dark, narrow road.

This is not the Saint Lucia our ancestors fought for. And it should not be the Saint Lucia we accept today.

CHOISEUL SHINES BRIGHT: MÈT BONDA YO!

In the peaceful and picturesque southwestern district of St. Lucia, the communities of Choiseul are buzzing with pride after two of their own were promoted to the prestigious rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. Luke Defreitas, from La Pointe, and Albert Charlery, from Bellevue, have both been recognized for their exceptional dedication, leadership, and tireless efforts within the force.

As Choiseul continues to be known for its serene landscapes and tight-knit community, it now has another reason to be proud—its homegrown law enforcement officers, who have reached the pinnacle of their careers. These promotions not only signify personal achievements but also reflect the dedication of the Choiseul community in supporting its own.

ACP Luke Defreitas: A Humble Reflection of Success

In an exclusive interview with the St. Lucia Times, ACP Luke Defreitas shared his gratitude for the unwavering support that has helped him reach this milestone in his career. “Though it is a significant personal achievement for me, I think it signifies a lot more,” Defreitas expressed humbly. “At my level, without the support of the persons I supervise and work alongside, promotions like this are not easy.”

He also highlighted the role of his colleagues, especially Commissioner of Police Vern Garde, in his journey. ACP Defreitas acknowledged the critical importance of public cooperation in crime reduction, as he spoke about the continuing challenges facing the police force. With 14 homicides recorded this year, many still under investigation, and road safety concerns growing due to recent fatalities, Defreitas stressed the ongoing need for collaboration between the police and the public.

“We are seeing some progress,” Defreitas noted, “and we continue to ask the public to work with us in partnership to make Saint Lucia a safer jurisdiction for everybody.”

ACP Albert Charlery: A Commitment to Public Safety

For ACP Albert Charlery, his promotion is not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal one. “This is a proud moment for me,” he said, reflecting on the recognition he has received. Charlery, who hails from the vibrant community of Bellevue, thanked his family, the public, and his fellow officers for their continued support throughout his career.

He expressed his commitment to public safety, highlighting the challenges the police force faces, especially in terms of resources and mobility. Despite these obstacles, Charlery assured the public that morale remains high within the force. “We’re very concerned about ensuring the people remain safe throughout the length and breadth of this country,” he affirmed.

A Stronger, Safer Choiseul

The promotions of ACP Defreitas and ACP Charlery are a testament to the hardworking spirit of Choiseul’s people and the value they place on public service. These officers are proud representatives of their communities—La Pointe and Bellevue—and their elevation within the police force not only enhances the leadership within the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force but also strengthens the safety and well-being of the entire country.

As both ACPs continue to lead with dedication, their focus remains on improving public safety and reducing crime, working tirelessly to build a safer and more secure St. Lucia for everyone. These promotions serve as a reminder of the importance of community support in every achievement, particularly in the peaceful, resilient communities of Choiseul.

Justice for the Betrayed: A Victim Relief Fund Paid by Negligent Officials

The recent collapse of the Creators Alliance Ponzi scheme has left countless St. Lucians devastated, their savings drained by yet another fraudulent investment operation. While blame has been cast on the perpetrators, there’s an equally pressing question that remains unanswered: How did regulatory and financial oversight bodies allow this to happen?

For too long, negligence among officials and financial regulators has created an environment where scams flourish, preying on hardworking citizens who trust in systems meant to protect them. A bold solution is needed—one that not only compensates the victims but also ensures accountability among those who failed in their duties.

A Victim Relief Fund: Turning Negligence into Justice

One viable approach is the establishment of a Victim Relief Fund, financed not by taxpayers, but by penalties imposed on negligent officials and institutions that failed to act against the scam. This fund would serve as direct compensation to victims, restoring a portion of their lost savings while reinforcing a culture of responsibility among those in positions of power.

How It Would Work

1. Investigation & Accountability – A thorough inquiry into the Creators Alliance Ponzi scheme must be conducted to identify regulatory lapses. Officials who ignored red flags or failed to act on complaints should be held accountable.
2. Fines & Penalties – Those found negligent—whether government agencies, financial watchdogs, or private institutions—should be subjected to hefty fines. These penalties would be directly funneled into the Victim Relief Fund.
3. Structured Payouts – Victims would receive compensation based on their level of financial loss, prioritizing those who suffered the greatest impact.
4. Preventative Measures – A portion of the fund could also be allocated towards public awareness campaigns and stronger financial regulations to prevent future schemes.

Holding the Right People Responsible

The burden of restitution should not fall solely on the fraudsters, many of whom will disappear or lack sufficient assets to repay victims. Instead, those entrusted with financial oversight must be held to higher standards. If financial regulators, banks, or government officials failed in their duty to investigate and warn the public, they should bear the cost of their negligence.

A Step Towards True Financial Protection

The Creators Alliance scandal is not just a cautionary tale—it is a wake-up call. If St. Lucia wants to protect its citizens from future scams, the system must change. A Victim Relief Fund financed by penalties against negligent officials is not just a fair solution; it is a necessary one. Only when those in power understand the financial consequences of their failures will they truly commit to protecting the people they serve.

Creators Alliance Scandal: How St. Lucia’s Government Enabled a Caribbean-Wide Ponzi Scheme

Introduction  

In a stark betrayal of public trust, the St. Lucian government stands accused of complicity in one of the Caribbean’s most devastating financial scams. By granting an official license to Creators Alliance — a now-exposed Ponzi scheme—the authorities lent credibility to a operation that defrauded tens of thousands across the region.

This article dissects the collapse of Creators Alliance and condemns the systemic failures that allowed it to thrive under the guise of legitimacy.

The Illusion of Legitimacy  

Creators Alliance (CA) masqueraded as an innovative platform, promising “easy income” through video-watching tasks and high-return investments. Its success hinged on a carefully crafted image: glossy advertisements, fake offices, and crucially, a government-issued business certification in St. Lucia. This seal of approval disarmed skeptics, enabling CA to infiltrate communities in St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Grenada, and beyond.  

As one victim recounted, “They did everything to gain trust—posters, offices, even government certification. We thought, ‘How could our own leaders endorse a scam?’” Tragically, this trust was weaponized. The St. Lucian government’s licensing became a marketing tool for CA, emboldening them to push aggressive recruitment drives, including family package deals and pressure to “upgrade” investments.

The Collapse—and the Government’s Deafening Silence 

By March 2025, withdrawal delays began. CA blamed tax filings, dangling “double pay” incentives to pacify users. Meanwhile, a compulsory strike-off notice from the UK’s Companies House (dated March 24, 2025) revealed CA’s impending dissolution—a fact ignored by St. Lucian regulators.  

While CA’s UK entity faced liquidation, its Caribbean operations continued unabated. Admins deleted WhatsApp groups on April 2, 2025, vanishing with millions. Victims, including those who took bank loans or merged life savings into CA’s wallets, were left destitute. “I’m lucky I only lost a little,” one victim admitted. “Others bet everything.”  

Regulatory Negligence: A Government’s Failure to Protect 

The St. Lucian government’s role in this crisis cannot be overstated. By certifying CA without rigorous oversight, officials failed to heed glaring red flags:  

1. Missed UK Strike-Off Notice: The impending dissolution of CA’s UK arm was public record by March 2025. No investigation was launched.  

2. Ponzi Structure Ignored: CA’s model—relying on new investments to pay old users—mirrored textbook Ponzi schemes. Yet no audits occurred.  

3. Silence Amid Collapse: As withdrawals froze, authorities stayed mute, allowing CA to exploit their legitimacy until the bitter end.  

This inaction raises disturbing questions. Did regulators willfully turn a blind eye, or is the system so broken that predatory enterprises slip through unchallenged? Either way, the result is the same: a population left to pick up the pieces of a scam sanctioned by their own government.

Aftermath: Lives Ruined, Trust Shattered  

The human toll is staggering. Families face bankruptcy, retirees have lost savings, and small business owners are buried under debt. Beyond financial ruin, the psychological scars of betrayal cut deep. “We believed our leaders had our backs,” a Grenadian victim lamented. “Now we see they served us up to scammers.”  

A Call for Accountability and Reform 

TheCreators Alliance scandal must catalyze change. The St. Lucian government owes its citizens:  

- Transparency: A public inquiry into how CA was licensed.  

- Compensation: A victim relief fund, financed by penalties against negligent officials.   

- Regulatory Overhaul: Stricter vetting for licensed businesses and real-time monitoring of international filings.  

To Caribbean citizens: Demand accountability. To global regulators: Treat this as a warning. Ponzi schemes evolve, but their greatest weapon remains the same—government complacency.  

Final Words  

The Creators Alliance debacle is more than a scam—it’s a indictment of failed leadership. When governments prioritize bureaucratic ease over citizen protection, the consequences are catastrophic. St. Lucia’s authorities must now choose: Will they shield the vulnerable, or remain enablers of exploitation? The Caribbean—and the world—is watching.