Opposition warns as UWP accuses SLP of hypocrisy over crime strategy and free expression
CASTRIES, St Lucia — The United Workers Party (UWP) has launched a sharp critique of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), accusing the governing party of fostering a culture of criminality, undermining the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, and stifling free expression while projecting an image of unity.
In a press release issued Wednesday, the opposition party dismissed what it described as “political theater” by the SLP, charging that the government is more focused on deflecting blame than addressing the island’s escalating crime and security challenges.
UWP claims SLP shelters questionable figures
The UWP alleged that Labour has welcomed individuals of questionable character into its leadership ranks, ignoring reputational risks and allegations of misconduct. According to the statement, this practice has created lingering public suspicion about the integrity of the government’s inner circle.
The party further accused the administration of failing to deliver a credible crime plan while shifting responsibility onto the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. “Instead of empowering officers, Saint Lucia Labour Party undermines their morale by using them as scapegoats whenever its weak policies collapse,” the release said.
Allegations of silencing dissent
The opposition also charged that the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has consistently silenced opposing voices, whether from civil society, the media or private citizens, in a bid to tighten political control. The release contended that this approach prioritizes “control over democracy” and discourages free speech at a time when open debate is critical to public trust.
Despite what it described as a track record of repression, the UWP said the SLP frequently cloaks itself in rhetoric of “love” and “unity” when politically convenient. The party called this selective morality a “smokescreen” to conceal deeper governance failures.
UWP’s stance on crime and democracy
Reasserting its position, the UWP maintained that it stands in defense of law-abiding citizens, the independence of the police and the right of all Saint Lucians to speak without fear. It argued that leadership must be rooted in “courage, honesty, and consistent principles” rather than “opportunistic grandstanding.”
The UWP reiterated that it has already outlined a framework for tackling crime and restoring accountability through its broader “SOS-7 Rescue Plan,” unveiled earlier this year by Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet. The plan emphasized crime reduction, strengthening law enforcement and community safety as priority areas (read more on the UWP SOS-7 Chastanet Rescue Plan).
“Saint Lucians deserve a government that acts, not one that silences and showboats,” the release stated, pledging that the UWP will continue advocating for safer communities, a respected police force and a political culture founded on integrity.
The release comes amid heightened political sparring between the two main parties over crime, policing strategies and public safety, with both sides trading accusations over their handling of national security.
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