CASTRIES, St. Lucia – St. Lucia will have a new government in just over two weeks, almost a year earlier constitutionally due.
Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony announced in a televised address to the nation yesterday evening that June 6 has been set as the date for the general election. Nomination day is a week from now – on May 27.
The government had until April 5 next year to hold the poll.
On the heels of the United Workers Party (UWP) calling for early elections, Anthony said his ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) is ready to face the electorate.
“I have decided in the interest of our country, to call the general election several months ahead of its due date to ensure peace, stability and certainty in our country and its affairs,” the prime minister said.
During his address, he also spoke about the progress the country had made under the SLP administration.
Following the election date announcement, Anthony addressed supporters in the capital on a 15-point election plan that his party will implement if it is re-elected to office.
The plans include reducing unemployment, adding at least 2,000 new hotel rooms, increasing the income tax threshold from EC$18,000 (US$6,666) to EC$30,000 (US$11,111), and the establishment of a tertiary education trust fund. (Caribbean360.com)
