Since assuming office as Local Government Minister, Richard Frederick’s actions towards vendors in Castries have ignited a firestorm of criticism and condemnation. Just one day after winning the election, Frederick pledged that no one would interfere with vendors in the city under his watch. However, recent events paint a starkly different picture, revealing a troubling pattern of victimization and political retribution.
Frederick’s supposed commitment to vendor rights evaporated as he embarked on a targeted campaign against supporters of the UWP, his political opponents. Such blatant abuse of power not only violates democratic principles but also betrays the trust of the very people he pledged to serve.
The heart of the matter lies in the contradiction between Frederick’s words and deeds. His post-election promise of non-interference with vendors now appears as nothing more than empty rhetoric, a cynical ploy to secure votes. The reality is far grimmer: vendors who dare to align themselves with the UWP face intimidation, harassment, and even eviction from their livelihoods.
This betrayal of trust is not only morally reprehensible but also detrimental to the fabric of democracy. Vendors, who are already vulnerable members of society, rely on their businesses for survival. Frederick’s vindictive vendetta undermines their livelihoods and jeopardizes their ability to support themselves and their families.
It is incumbent upon Frederick to heed the calls for accountability and transparency. His role as Local Government Minister demands fairness, impartiality, and respect for the rights of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. Anything less is a betrayal of the principles of democracy and the trust of the people. #PierreEhCare#PuttingYouWorse#SaveOurSaintLucia
When We Stray From Democracy and Transparency
By James Stanislaus From the time the SLP won the 2021 elections, the opposition has been preaching the importance of democracy and transparency in government. Yet, despite the compelling case made by the opposition, their reasoned counsel has been rejected, ignored, and, on more than one occasion, utterly ridiculed by the Prime Minister and his team. Notwithstanding, the Leader of…
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by Content Manager