CASTRIES– In a shocking display of impatience and disrespect, Opposition Leader, Allen Chastanet walked out on Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire during a scheduled social interaction following the Jubilee church service held at The Saint Joseph The Worker Catholic Church in Gros Islet earlier today.
The event was intended as a moment of informal dialogue between the clergy, and representatives of both the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the United Workers Party (UWP).
The Archbishop had invited both parties to gather under a tent set up for the occasion. However, Chastanet, after a short stay, seemingly unwilling to wait for the Archbishop’s arrival, abruptly left before the host even had the chance to greet his guests.
This latest incident adds to Chastanet’s growing reputation for walking out of serious occasions where stately decorum is expected. From Parliament to public engagements, his pattern of behavior raises serious concerns about his lack of respect for institutions and the principles of dialogue and engagement. Just earlier this year, he walked out on the Police Recruits’ graduation ceremony before it even started.
“Walking out on Parliament is one thing, but walking out on the Archbishop? That is an entirely new level of disrespect,” said Spokesperson, Lisa Jawahir. “Leadership requires patience, respect, and the ability to engage in meaningful discussions—even when things do not suit one’s narrow political agenda.
The incident has left many questioning Chastanet’s temperament and commitment to constructive political discourse. Such behavior gives credibility to the widespread view that Chastanet lacks the qualities to return to the position of leadership of our country.
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Press release by the Saint Lucia Labour Patry.
