With the December 1 general election approaching, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the United Workers Party (UWP) have released manifestos that outline distinct pathways for the country’s development. While both parties commit to improved living standards and economic opportunity, their plans differ significantly in direction, pace, and governing philosophy.
The SLP’s manifesto positions the party’s agenda as a continuation of its stabilization efforts, linked to the long-term Vision 2035 framework. The document emphasizes strengthening public institutions, improving transparency, and ensuring predictable governance. It also outlines plans to modernize digital systems, enhance service delivery, and pursue steady, structured development across major sectors.
The UWP’s manifesto adopts a more urgent tone, presenting Saint Lucia as a country in need of swift and comprehensive change. The party calls for reforms across government, including adjustments to state institutions and a more assertive executive approach. Its proposals aim to “reset” national systems and accelerate transformation through new policies and reorganized structures.
One of the key differences lies in how each party plans to manage the public sector. The SLP prioritizes upgrading and integrating existing institutions, focusing on efficiency and modernization. In contrast, the UWP proposes the creation of multiple new authorities and specialized bodies intended to support faster implementation and sector-specific oversight.
Fiscal commitments also set the two documents apart. The SLP avoids major tax cuts and instead outlines phased infrastructure development, expanded social programs, and shared-cost social insurance models. Its approach reflects gradual programme growth alongside continued fiscal management.
The UWP proposes reducing levies, fees, and fuel costs while simultaneously expanding public services, including universal National Health Insurance, free tertiary education, wider pension access, and new agencies. The manifesto also highlights several large capital projects as central to its development strategy.
In terms of economic development, the SLP highlights diversification across tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, digital services, and community enterprise. The manifesto promotes balanced growth through multiple sectors and continued investment in digital transformation and community development.
The UWP focuses more heavily on infrastructure-led growth and international competitiveness. Its plan outlines major physical development projects, expanded national infrastructure, and measures designed to elevate Saint Lucia’s global economic standing.
Both manifestos also address social development. The SLP emphasizes poverty reduction, targeted support for vulnerable groups, and programmes aimed at strengthening public trust and social stability. The UWP’s proposals center on security, discipline, and increased opportunities through private-sector-driven mobility.
Together, the documents offer two contrasting approaches, one rooted in continuity and institutional strengthening, the other centered on rapid transformation and broad structural change. As Saint Lucians prepare to vote, the manifestos now form a key part of the national conversation on the direction the country should take in the years ahead.
