The Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) celebrated three years in office on July 26. The Party is gearing up for its “Walk of Progress” on August 25. Meanwhile, the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) has criticized the SLP’s policies. The UWP accused the government of serving a select few and operating in secrecy.
SLP Communications Director Lisa Jawahir defended the party’s governance. She emphasized the positive impact their policies have had on all St Lucians.
“The high for me is the fact that the policies so far have been able to touch the lives of all Saint Lucians from all walks of life,” Jawahir said. She cited entrepreneurs, farmers, students, and pensioners as examples. Jawahir stressed that everyone in Saint Lucia, regardless of party affiliation, has gained from at least one policy.
Looking ahead, Jawahir highlighted the government’s continued investment in education for the upcoming school year. She noted that facilities fees, Math and English CXC fees will continue to be paid by the government.
However, the UWP raised concerns about the Citizenship by Investment (CIP) program, accusing the government of facilitating the illegal discounting of CIP Passports. These claims are supported by Phillip Martinez, a CIP agent based in Saint Kitts, who alleged he has evidence of illegal sales.
Jawahir questioned Martinez’s credibility, citing his criminal history. “I have a serious concern – the fact that somebody who has been declared a fraud in international court is the one championing the cause for the agenda of the UWP and I make no bones about saying that,” she said.
According to a 2005 article in The New York Times, Martinez was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison for fraud.
Source/Photo Credit: Saint Lucia News Online
