As election season intensifies, Castries Central is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests after attorney-at-law Stanley Felix announced his intention to contest the seat as an independent candidate.
Felix made the declaration on Monday, October 13, during a special broadcast on DBS Television, marking a dramatic return to the political arena more than a decade after he last contested the constituency.
For weeks, Felix had hinted at his political comeback through social media posts carrying the slogans “Let Castries Central Breathe Again” and “Red plus yellow equals orange”, a reference to his chosen colour of representation and his bid to attract support beyond traditional party lines.
Felix, who served as President of the Senate under the current Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) administration, previously ran as the Labour Party’s candidate for Castries Central in 2011, narrowly losing to Richard Frederick, who then represented the United Workers Party (UWP). Now, 14 years later, the two are set to face off again – this time both as independent candidates – while Rosh Clarke will represent the UWP.
Felix opened his address by saying, “For some, politics is about power, but for me, it has always been about people,” and framed his candidacy as a response to what he described as disillusionment with partisan politics and neglect of community needs.
He spoke passionately about his connection to Castries Central, referencing his deep ties to its neighbourhoods and residents.
“I did not enter this race for ambition,” Felix said. “I entered because I cannot stay silent while families in Central go hungry, while young people are denied chances, while vendors are displaced and disrespected, while elders feel forgotten. I entered because Castries Central deserves better.”
The attorney was candid about the personal experiences that shaped his decision, alluding to betrayal within political circles.
“Life, and yes, even politics, has brought me betrayal. People I trusted hurt me. Doors that should have opened were slammed shut in my face,” he said. “But hear me well tonight, betrayal does not break a man; it refines him.”
Felix outlined a vision for the constituency anchored in the slogan Annou Viv Ansanm (Let us live together), promising to restore dignity, honesty and hope to public service. His plans include improving community safety, creating employment and training opportunities for young people, and ensuring greater accountability in governance.
Felix also put to bed any speculation surrounding his political motives, making it clear that his candidacy was self-driven and not influenced by any political party.
“So tonight, I announce with a full heart that I, Stanley Felix, will contest the seat of Castries Central as your independent candidate.”
