St Lucians hear details of the UWP SOS 7 plan on security, education, and relief
MICOUD NORTH — The United Workers Party (UWP) has formally launched what it calls the UWP SOS 7, a comprehensive package of policies designed to tackle the economic, social, and security challenges facing St Lucia. The announcement came Sunday during a massive national public meeting in Micoud North, where thousands gathered to hear from Political Leader Allen Chastanet and witness the official presentation of all 17 UWP candidates.
Allen Chastanet told supporters that the UWP SOS 7 reflects urgent action and not abstract promises. He argued that the measures will bring immediate relief to struggling households while laying the foundation for long-term growth and security. “St Lucians have suffered enough. It is time to lift the burdens from the backs of our people and create a future where everyone has a fair chance,” he declared.
Levy removal and lower fuel prices
Central to the plan is the abolition of the 2.5 percent health and security levy, a tax introduced under the current administration. Chastanet reminded supporters that the levy was initially introduced as a temporary measure but has remained in place, straining household budgets and raising the cost of living. The UWP has pledged to scrap it immediately upon returning to office.
The party also committed to lowering fuel prices within its first month in government, saying the high costs of gasoline and diesel have worsened inflation and hurt working-class families, farmers, and businesses. “This government has allowed price extortion to continue. The UWP will bring immediate relief at the pumps,” Chastanet said.
Relief for southern residents and farmers
The UWP SOS 7 also promises to eliminate the dam dredging fee applied to southern residents who do not benefit from the John Compton Dam. The party said this would correct what it views as a longstanding injustice.
In agriculture, the UWP pledged a pension plan for banana farmers who were excluded from the National Insurance Corporation (NIC). Under the policy, living farmers would receive monthly pensions while families of deceased contributors would receive a one-time payment. Chastanet said the measure recognizes the decades of labor that farmers invested in an industry that once sustained St Lucia’s economy.
Education and health care expansion
The UWP’s platform places significant emphasis on youth empowerment. The SOS 7 includes a pledge of free tertiary education at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, aimed at expanding opportunities for students from low-income households. The policy would also cover those pursuing vocational and technical training, equipping the next generation with skills for the global economy.
On health, the UWP has promised to roll out a National Health Insurance program that would guarantee every St Lucian up to $75,000 in annual coverage. Party officials described the plan as essential to ending disparities in access to care, ensuring citizens are not left bankrupt by medical emergencies.
Security and border protection
Chastanet also emphasized security as a pillar of the UWP SOS 7. The plan calls for the reintroduction of robust border control and the expansion of the K9 unit to strengthen the fight against the flow of illegal guns and drugs. According to the party, enhanced canine detection and stricter monitoring at ports of entry will be key to reducing crime and protecting citizens.
Framing the political agenda
The unveiling of the UWP SOS 7 comes as political momentum builds ahead of the next general election. By presenting both its full slate of candidates and its flagship policy agenda, the party is signaling its readiness to govern. Chastanet framed the SOS 7 as the foundation of a national rescue plan, contrasting it with what he described as years of broken promises and missed opportunities under the current administration.
He urged voters to join the UWP’s campaign to “Save Our St Lucia,” portraying the election as a decisive moment for the country’s future. “These seven policies are not ideas to be debated years from now. They are commitments we will act on from day one,” Chastanet told the rally.
UWP calls for citizen support
As thousands of supporters waved yellow flags and cheered the unveiling of the candidates, UWP officials stressed that the SOS 7 is a people-centered plan meant to empower families, protect farmers, expand youth opportunities, and restore national confidence.
With the release of its detailed proposals, the UWP has positioned itself as the party of immediate action, calling on voters across the island to rally behind what it calls a practical and urgent blueprint for national recovery.
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