POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST RAISED WITH EMPLOYEE OF CHAIRMAN OF SAINT LUCIA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT UNIT SERVING AS AUTHORISED AGENT

Concerns have been raised regarding a potential conflict of interest within the operations of the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU). 

It has come to our attention that an employee in the Chambers of Lorne Theophilus who is the Chairman of the CIP Unit has assumed the role of an Authorized Agent for the same programme headed by the chairman. This situation raises significant questions about transparency, impartiality, and the integrity of the citizenship by investment program in Saint Lucia.

The role of the CIP Unit is of utmost importance, as it oversees the country’s Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), which grants foreign investors the opportunity to obtain citizenship in Saint Lucia through a financial contribution or investment. The program is intended to bring economic benefits to the country, including job creation and infrastructure development. It is crucial that the operations of the CIU are conducted in a fair, unbiased, and ethical manner to maintain public trust and confidence.

The revelation that an employee of the Chairman Mr. Lorne Theophilus of the CIP Unit is also acting as an Authorized Agent within the same unit raises concerns about a potential conflict of interest. It is essential to ensure that individuals involved in the administration of the CIP are not in a position where their personal interests may influence the decision-making process. Conflicts of interest can undermine the credibility and fairness of the program, leading to questions about preferential treatment and potential abuses.

Transparency and accountability are fundamental to the success of any citizenship by investment program. The inclusion of employees of high-ranking officials within the CIU as Authorized Agents raises red flags and demands immediate attention from relevant authorities. It is imperative that a thorough investigation be conducted to assess whether any ethical violations or breaches of protocol have occurred.

We call upon the government of Saint Lucia to address these concerns with urgency and take appropriate action to ensure the integrity of the CIU and the citizenship by investment program. The public deserves clarity and confidence in the processes of the program, and any potential conflicts of interest must be rectified to maintain the credibility of the CIP.