26th July 2023

Chastanet says Over the last two years, it has become increasingly evident that the SLP administration has failed to deliver on its promises

By Honourable Allen Michael Chastanet Facebook Page 

Over the last two years, it has become increasingly evident that the SLP administration has failed to deliver on its promises and uphold its commitments to the people of Saint Lucia. As your Opposition Leader, I feel it is my duty to highlight the concerning developments that have unfolded under their leadership.

Promises Made, Promises Broken:

The SLP promised each citizen $1500, the removal of property tax, and income tax relief for those making $4000, yet none of these pledges have materialized. Instead, we have witnessed increased taxes, rising prices, and a lack of accountability for the misuse of public funds.

Questionable Spending and Mismanagement:

The allocation of $10 million to erect a fence and spray St Jude Hospital with bleach remains questionable, especially when there is still no completion of the hospital. Moreover, the absence of critical infrastructure projects like Hewanorra International Airport and a Cruiseship terminal in Vieux Fort speaks to the lack of vision and progress.

Transparency and Accountability:

The process of selling Port Castries and Soufriere Waterfront for $42 million has raised concerns about transparency and accountability. Additionally, over $60 million of CIP funds remains unaccounted for, which requires immediate investigation and explanation from the current administration.

Deteriorating Infrastructure and Services:

Our roads are in their worst condition ever, the Rodney Bay Highway remains nonexistent, and the government cancelled essential housing projects while firing hundreds of contract workers, leading to an increase in unemployment and hardships for families.

Economic Hardships and Inflation:

Saint Lucians have been burdened with high gas prices, increased costs for basic goods like bread, rice, and flour, and steep rises in passport fees and electricity bills. The implementation of a 2.5% tax has further strained the financial well-being of our citizens.

Healthcare and Public Safety:

The incomplete St. Jude Hospital, shortages of medicine, and the cancellation of the National Health Insurance demonstrate a lack of focus on the well-being of our people. Furthermore, the unprecedented rise in murder rates over the past two years raises serious concerns about public safety.

Nepotism and Cronyism:

Employing Philip J Pierre's daughter at the CIP Unit and appointing Ernest Hilaire's retired brother as a PS raises questions about fair and impartial governance.

Mismanagement of Trade and Agriculture:

The administration's decisions have negatively impacted our trade relations, leading to the loss of Banana exports to the UK. Additionally, consistent shortages of essential goods like sugar, rice, and flour have affected the livelihoods of our citizens.

Lack of Passport Access:

Citizens have faced difficulties in obtaining passports, hindering travel and opportunities abroad.

Borrowing and Financial Irresponsibility:

The SLP's administration has borrowed exorbitant amounts of money ($505 million in 2022 and $250 million+ in 2023), leading to concerns about our national debt and future economic stability.
Governing by Lawsuits:

Attempting to silence the Opposition Leader with lawsuits, only to lose the case twice, raises doubts about the government's willingness to engage in open and democratic discourse.

The above points reflect just a fraction of the failures and shortcomings of the SLP administration. As citizens, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and hold our leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. Together, we must strive for a transparent, accountable, and prosperous future for Saint Lucia.

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