In response to an invitation from the Government of Saint Lucia, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), through the Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, mounted an eleven (11) member CARICOM Election Observation Mission (CEOM) to the General Elections held on 1 December 2025.
The Mission comprised electoral experts from the following nine (9) Member States: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago. Two members of the CARICOM Secretariat staff provided administrative and logistical support.
The Chief of Mission and team members arrived in Saint Lucia between 25 to 27 November 2025. The CEOM engaged in extensive consultations with a broad cross-section of Saint Lucian society, including the Prime Minister, Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Leader of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP); the Leader of the Opposition and the United Workers Party (UWP), the Honourable Allen Chastanet; and senior party representatives, the Honourable Stephenson King (Independent Candidate); and Mr. Vern Garde, Commissioner of Police. They also consulted with civil society groups, including in Raise Your Voice Saint Lucia, 758 Saint Lucia, Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality (ECADE), Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association, the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce and members of the media. The team also engaged with the Saint Lucia Electoral Commission and the Chief Elections Officer.
These preparatory meetings provided the CEOM with a general understanding of the prevailing atmosphere and level of preparedness for the General Elections.
Campaign Period
Based on information from various stakeholders, newspapers and online sources, the campaign period featured significant focus on progress and policy initiatives. However, it also witnessed personal attacks and accusations, reflecting the high stakes and dynamic evolving political landscape of the nation. Notwithstanding, the CEOM was not informed of, nor did it observe, any incidents of election-related violence during the campaign period.
Advance Poll – 28 November 2025
The Mission observed the advance poll conducted on 28 November 2025. A significant challenge was noted regarding the insufficient number of polling places and stations designated for advance voters. This resulted in long lines and considerable delays throughout the day. However, no eligible voter was disenfranchised, as all individuals who were in line at the official close of the poll were permitted to cast their ballot.
Election Day Observations – 1 December 2025
Deployment and Coverage
On Election Day, the CEOM was deployed to observe the elections across the country. Members of the team visited 14 of the 17 constituencies and 317 of the 480 polling stations. Observers interacted with Returning Officers, Presiding Officers and various Police Officers.
Opening of the Poll
Our observers arrived at polling stations prior to the 6:30 a.m. scheduled opening. Police presence was observed to be adequate at all polling locations. Polling staff were present and necessary election supplies were delivered on time, ensuring prompt openings. We observed that at least two (2) political agents, representing the major political parties, were present in each polling station visited. The required notices and instructions for electors were posted, and the polling staff carried out the opening of the poll procedures as stipulated. Polling stations opened on time and voters were able to cast their vote in a very peaceful and orderly manner. Many voters arrived at polling stations just before the opening of polls and appeared very enthusiastic to cast their ballot.
Voting Process
At the polling locations we visited, the voting process was generally carried out in accordance with the procedures and guidelines outlined by the Saint Lucia Electoral Department. We observed that most polling stations had the list of electors posted for voters to check their will w.. Information Clerks were utilised at some locations to assist in directing voters. The polling staff appeared adequately trained, were courteous, and conducted their duties in an impartial and professional manner, assisting incapacitated and elderly voters as required.
Voter turnout was heavy in the morning and towards the close of poll, maintaining a steady pace throughout the day. Polling staff remained focused and efficient in processing eligible voters.
The CEOM noted that some polling stations were not located on the ground floor, which posed challenges for elderly and disabled voters. Additionally, Clerks responsible for the electronic capture of data faced significant difficulty in completing their duties due to severe connectivity challenges that persisted for most of the day. The CEOM observed that the voting procedures were conducted according to the procedures and guidelines outlined by the Saint Lucia Electoral Department.
Close of Poll
The Mission identified polling stations to observe the close of the poll at 6:00 p.m. We arrived at these polling stations approximately half hour before the polls were scheduled to be closed. The Presiding Officers were prompt in their declaration of the closure of poll. At most polling stations, there were no voters in line at the close of poll and any voters remaining in line were permitted to vote. The CEOM concluded that the close of poll procedures were conducted strictly in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.
Counting of Ballots
Following the close of poll, the ballot boxes were opened in the presence of political party agents and observers, and the ballots were carefully counted.
The results of the count were recorded on the Statement of Poll after agreement by all poll day staff and agents. The CEOM is satisfied that the polling day staff followed the counting procedures and guidelines outlined by the Saint Lucia Electoral Department.
Tabulation of ResultsOn conclusion of the counting process, Presiding Officers transported the original signed copies of the Statements of Poll to the Returning Officer for the Official Count, scheduled to be completed on 2 December 2025.
Overall Impression
The CEOM is of the view that on Election Day, electors were able to exercise their franchise in a peaceful, orderly and transparent manner, and without significant incident. Polling Day Workers performed their duties professionally and are commended for their dedication. The Police Force maintained law and order, exhibiting high professionalism in their interaction with electors and stakeholders.
We congratulate the Saint Lucia Electoral Commission for its administration of the electoral process, and the political parties, their agents and supporters for the peaceful conduct displayed on Election Day.
The CEOM extends its appreciation to the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community for providing the necessary support to fulfil its obligations.
Conclusion
It is the Mission’s considered view that the results of the General Election will reflect the will of the people of Saint Lucia and that the outcome will be accepted and respected by all parties.
As our team of observers departs Saint Lucia tomorrow, Wednesday, 3 December 2025, we urge all Saint Lucians to remain calm, peaceful and patient while awaiting the official results. We encourage the relevant authorities to be allowed the space to complete their duties thoroughly and transparently. The strength of the nation lies in its unity, resilience and commitment to the democratic process.
This Preliminary Statement provides an initial assessment of the Mission’s observations. A comprehensive Final Report, outlining detailed findings and recommendations, will be submitted to the Secretary-General of CARICOM in the coming weeks. CARICOM reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting Saint Lucia’s democratic journey and its pursuit of a peaceful, unified, and prosperous future.
Once again, the CEOM thanks all individuals and organisations who took the time to meet with us. Your insights and contributions were greatly appreciated.
IAN S. HUGHES
CHIEF OF MISSION
CARICOM ELECTION OBSERVATION MISSION (CEOM)
CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA
2 DECEMBER, 2025
