As the general election approaches, the United Workers Party (UWP) is unveiling a series of campaign promises aimed at boosting economic activity in key constituencies. In Castries South East, UWP hopeful Guy Joseph has positioned himself as a champion of “practical” development, while criticizing the proposed plans of his opponent, SLP Senator Lisa Jawahir.
Joseph outlined his vision for the constituency, highlighting initiatives he believes will create tangible economic benefits.
“We were buying five acres of land next to the two Bexon playing fields to create a track for the dirt bikes using the river banks. You remember the dirt bikes always used to be around here? So can you imagine having a track in Bexon and every Sunday you have these dirt bikes out there, racing, practicing. You know the amount of economic activity?” he said.
He further promised community-centered events, noting, “For my supporters in Marc, we are going to do a fresh meat festival in Marc.” Joseph emphasized that these initiatives are focused on generating real opportunities for local businesses and residents.
In contrast, Joseph was critical of Jawahir’s plans, which include the creation of eco-tourist bird watching facilities.
“The plan the young lady has for Castries South is to make money. Now let me tell you, Millet has a bird sanctuary, forestry has bird watching. It is not sustainable because we do not have enough volume of people going out. And the tourism industry is on the decline under Ernest Hilaire and the Saint Lucia Labour Party, so who is going to see the birds?” he remarked.
Joseph framed his campaign around practical, community-based projects that he believes will have immediate impact, contrasting them with what he described as “unsustainable” proposals from the SLP. The debate underscores the broader contest between economic pragmatism and eco-tourism-focused development in the constituency.
