Opposition Senator Dominic Fedee has strongly criticised the Saint Lucian government after Britain revoked visa-free access for nationals on March 5. He described the move as troubling and consequential for the country’s international reputation, calling it “a deep sense of national shame”.
Fedee said the implications go beyond administrative changes, asserting, “This is not a bureaucratic adjustment… This is a statement about the standing of our nation in the world.”
Speaking at a recent press conference, he described the move as “a retreat from the trust and privilege we once held as a member of the Commonwealth family”.
According to Fedee, UK authorities have clearly outlined their concerns. Referring to statements from the UK Home Office, he said the decision was driven by two main reasons: more Saint Lucians seeking asylum and issues with the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP).
He highlighted data showing that 360 Saint Lucians claimed asylum between January and December 2025. Of these, 128 (36%) made claims at UK ports. He also noted the scale of CIP activity, with 5,642 applicants in a single year, a 423% increase.
Fedee said transparency is a major concern, noting the lack of updated reporting. He pointed out UK data only runs to March 2024 and said, “This controversial programme… has now gone two years without reports.”
He urged the government to release missing documentation to restore confidence in CIP management.
The opposition senator also questioned the handling of CIP funds and projects, noting concerns regarding accountability and pressed for clarity on developers’ activities, including “how much have they collected? How much have they drawn down? How much have they spent on specific projects?”
Fedee said the situation demands urgent reform. He revealed that the UWP wants “an overhaul of the CIP.” He warned that the UK’s move could be part of a wider international trend. He noted, “the EU is the third important jurisdiction that has signalled trouble,” and warned that such programmes pose “an existential threat”.
He cautioned against downplaying the issue. He stressed, “We cannot… continue to manage the programme in the manner that we have.” He cited “the lack of transparency, the lack of timely reporting and incomplete financial updates.”
Fedee emphasised the need for accountability and honesty in dealing with the crisis. “What will take us out of the hole … will be the truth and nothing but the truth,” he said.
