New Parliament. New Speaker: Why the Reset Must Begin at the Chair

As Saint Lucia prepares to usher in a new Parliament, the nation stands at an important democratic crossroads. Elections are not just about changing faces in the House. They are about renewing confidence in the institutions that govern us. And at the very centre of that renewal must be the office of the Speaker of the House.

The Speaker is not a ceremonial figure. The Speaker is the referee of our democracy — the guardian of order, fairness, and balance between Government and Opposition. When Parliament is sworn in, the country deserves a Speaker who reflects the spirit of a fresh mandate.

Why the Record of the Last Parliament Matters

Over the last parliamentary term, many Saint Lucians followed the proceedings closely. What stood out repeatedly was controversy surrounding:

• Perceived one-sided rulings;
• Frequent objections and walkouts;
• Discipline that appeared unevenly applied;
• Growing public distrust in the neutrality of the Chair.

Whether every ruling was technically correct is not the only issue. In public office, perception is reality. When faith in the impartiality of the Speaker is weakened, the legitimacy of the entire Parliament is affected.

Why Fairness Is Even More Critical Now

The political numbers emerging from the elections paint a sharp imbalance — overwhelming strength on one side and a very small minority on the other. That reality makes the role of the Speaker more important than ever.

When one side holds over 90% of the seats and the other barely 6%, the Speaker must become the bridge — the institution that assures the minority its voice still matters. Without that confidence, Parliament risks sliding into raw majoritarian rule rather than balanced democracy.

Why a New Speaker Is Necessary

A new Parliament should not inherit old controversies. It should begin with a clean slate. A new Speaker would:

• Restore confidence in neutrality;
• Send a signal of national unity and fairness;
• Reassure the minority that their constitutional role is protected;
• Set a new tone of respect and discipline in the House;
• Strengthen public trust in the parliamentary process.

This is not about personalities or punishment. It is about institutional credibility. Democracy is not secured by numbers alone — it is secured by fairness, restraint, and respect for opposing voices.

The Message Going Forward

A new Parliament deserves new leadership at the Chair. The Speaker must rise above political history, party loyalty, and personal allegiance. The office must belong to the people — not to any political side.

Saint Lucia now stands before a powerful opportunity to reset the tone of governance for the next five years. Beginning with a new Speaker would send a clear message:

Fairness will preside. Balance will be protected. Democracy will be respected.

New Parliament. New Speaker.