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.
No comments:
Post a Comment