Former Prime Minister Michael Pilgrim delivered a strongly worded public address on Tuesday evening, urging voters in Castries Central to elect independent candidate Stanley Felix in the upcoming general elections. Pilgrim, who led Saint Lucia briefly after the 1979 polls, framed his endorsement around what he described as an urgent national need to confront corruption and restore public trust in governance.
Speaking directly to residents in Castries Central, Pilgrim revisited his long-standing advocacy, spanning over four decades, for stricter standards of conduct among public officials. He said corruption has evolved from “minuscule” during his time in office to what he now sees as a deeply entrenched culture, eroding public confidence and diverting resources away from vulnerable citizens. While stressing that he was not targeting personalities, Pilgrim said voters must be deliberate in assessing the character and track record of anyone seeking public office.
Pilgrim’s address included a comparison of candidates contesting the Castries Central seat, but focused primarily on the attributes he believes voters should prioritise humility, honesty, respect for women, integrity, and an absence of corruption or criminal associations. He warned that political parties rejecting certain individuals should serve as a “red flag” for the electorate.
The former Prime Minister argued that in the current political landscape, Castries Central presents a unique risk of becoming a “balance of power” seat should both major parties end up tied. He cautioned that such a scenario could allow an unsuitable candidate to leverage their position for personal gain, describing the possibility as a potential “calamity” for the country. Pilgrim said this concern forms part of his rationale for supporting Felix’s independent bid.
Pilgrim further called on residents across several communities including Morne Du Don, Wilton’s Yard, Leslie Land, Sans Souci, Georgeville, Barnard Hill, La Pansee, Rose Hill, Conway, Darling Road, Waterworks Road, Riverside Road, Vigie, and the CDC apartments, to vote decisively for Felix. He described Felix as honest, respectful, community-minded, and trustworthy, recalling more than 40 years of personal acquaintance with the candidate and his family.
Reflecting on his own political history, Pilgrim noted that Felix’s family had been instrumental in supporting his successful 1979 campaign. He said this longstanding relationship, combined with Felix’s character and approach to service, strengthened his confidence in offering a full endorsement.
The former Prime Minister pledged to campaign alongside Felix throughout the constituency, adding that voters should not be intimidated by political pressure. Emphasizing unity and moral courage, Pilgrim said his endorsement is driven not by party loyalty but by patriotism.
During his public address on DBS Television, Pilgrim said “I endorse Stanley Felix… not because I do not love the UWP, not because I do not love the SLP, but because I love my country more,” he said.
Pilgrim concluded by urging citizens to choose leaders who embody integrity and national interest, describing the upcoming vote as an opportunity for Castries Central to chart a higher path for Saint Lucia.
