In the previous blog post we mentioned KC, whom a Pauline surrogate coined as a rum...lol. Bearing in mind the time constraints required for campaigning "Choiseul on the Move" believes that the time period until General Elections may be too short for KC to make a meaninful impact. However we see a possible runoff in the making.
The political waters in Choiseul/Saltibus are starting to churn again, and this time, it’s not just about who wins—but who runs. With incumbent Bradley Felix (UWP) holding on to the seat after a convincing win in 2021, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) now faces a critical internal decision: Should they stick with Dr. Pauline Antoine-Prospere, or pass the torch to Mervin Ermay?
This isn’t just a personality contest—it’s a strategic decision that could determine whether Labour finally reclaims one of its former strongholds or cedes it again to the United Workers Party.
🏞️ The Landscape of Choiseul/Saltibus
Let’s be real—Choiseul/Saltibus is not an easy constituency to win. It’s sprawling, topographically challenging, and deeply divided in its political loyalties. From Saltibus to Morne Sion, to La Fargue, Mongouge and the heart of Choiseul Village, connecting with voters here requires more than just policy—it takes presence, consistency, and trust.
📉 2021 Recap: Pauline vs. Bradley
In the 2021 general elections, Dr. Pauline Antoine-Prospere ran under the Labour banner but was defeated by Bradley Felix by over 400 votes. This wasn’t a close squeaker—it was a clear message. While the SLP was riding a national wave, Bradley held his ground in Choiseul, showing that his local support base runs deep and loyal.
Dr. Prospere, though educated and composed, struggled to ignite enthusiasm in key areas like Choiseul Village and La Fargue, and despite good intentions and a calm presence, voters may have found her too soft-spoken or distant for the rough-and-tumble of constituency politics.
🔥 Enter Mervin Ermay: The Challenger Within
Now, there’s a new name making the rounds—Mervin Ermay, a long-time Labour loyalist known for his boots-on-the-ground approach and strong grassroots appeal. He’s been building quiet momentum in Choiseul, especially among the youth and working class. People say he’s accessible, passionate, and ready for the fight.
Supporters believe Ermay is the fresh energy SLP needs—someone who can go toe-to-toe with Bradley Felix on the ground, in the communites, and in the hearts of undecided voters.
🧠 Strategy Check: Who Can Beat Bradley?
That’s the question SLP strategists must be asking behind closed doors.
Candidate 2021 Result Visibility Electability vs. Felix Constituency Appeal
Pauline Antoine-Prospere Lost by 400+ votes Moderate Low to moderate Strong in Saltibus/Mongouge
Mervin Ermay Not yet tested High and growing Moderate to high Building across Choiseul, especially among youth
While Dr. Prospere has experience and name recognition, it’s hard to ignore the fact that she had her shot and couldn’t close the gap. In contrast, Ermay brings a fighting spirit and a connection with everyday people that may just be the missing ingredient Labour needs to break through.
🗳️ The Road Ahead
With general elections possibly on the horizon within the next 13 or less months, time is ticking. If the SLP wants to flip Choiseul/Saltibus, they’ll need to make their selection early, unify behind the candidate, and hit the ground running—literally.
If Labour wants a safe, familiar face, they’ll go with Dr. Prospere again.
But if they want to shake up the race and challenge Bradley Felix with fresh political energy, the smart money may be on Mervin Ermay.
💬 Final Thought
The people of Choiseul/Saltibus deserve a candidate who shows up, listens, and works—not just during elections, but all year round. Whether that person is Pauline or Ermay, the Labour Party cannot afford to gamble. They must choose the one who gives them the best shot at victory—not just on paper, but on the ground.
And for now, all eyes are on that red ticket.
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