Stating that “Vieux Fort has to get back on the map,” Senator Hermangild Francis on Saturday promised that the United Workers Party (UWP) will ensure that the south is developed into “the new frontier.” Francis had hoped to contest Anse La Raye/Canaries for the UWP at the 2016 general elections, but he was defeated in a runoff by eventual MP Dominic Fedee.
The Minister for Home Affairs, Justice and National Security now has his eyes set on contesting Vieux Fort South— which has been represented by former prime minister Dr. Kenny Anthony for over 20 years. In a video posted to Facebook yesterday, Francis indicated that he had initially backed off from contesting the seat in favor of Claude Charlemagne. However he noted that he has since received Charlemagne’s blessing to be the candidate.
With Charlemagne by his side, Francis stated: “Hi Kenny how are you? Remember me? I’m back!”
Asked by a supporter to outline his plans for constituents, Francis stated: “Vieux Fort has to get back on the map. We were the capital of Saint Lucia once and we have to regain that status. With our prime minister who has shown that he want’s the south to develop into the new frontier; I am there with our honourable prime minister and we will see to it that Vieux Fort gets what it deserves.”
He continued: “I am not somebody who does things in an autocratic manner. I will decide with the people what are the programs and policies that they want… we will work collectively, it’s not a one man show anymore. It is Vieux Fort South time.”
The UWP has not officially announced a candidate for the constituency.
Last month the party endorsed three candidates to contest Laborie, Castries East and Dennery North: https://stluciastar.com/breaking-news-uwp-endorses-three-candidates-for-upcoming-elections/
