Government Senator and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Guibion Ferdinand, has confirmed that he will not contest the next general elections in Micoud South, paving the way for new Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) hopeful Dr. Shanda Lee Harracksingh.

Ferdinand, who has contested the seat twice without success, said the decision was his own, guided by what he believes is in the best interest of the party and the constituency.

“It is very obvious that you have an opportunity to serve, you have given it a try, you have done your best, and you have to move on. Nobody owns this. No MP owns a seat, and no candidate owns the right to contest every time. So I think it was really about the best interest of the party and not being focused on myself too much,” Ferdinand explained.

He described Dr. Harracksingh as a strong candidate with deep ties to the Micoud South community, noting her family’s long-standing involvement in politics.

“We are very happy that we have a new candidate, Dr. Shanda Harracksingh, very well rooted in the community. You would know that her mom, Lilia, was a former candidate and did very well. We have really created a new move now in the community, and I’m very happy that she’s hitting the ground running. We are behind 100% and giving all the support,” he said.

Currently serving as a Senator, Leader of Government Business, and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Ferdinand said he remains committed to supporting his party’s efforts while stepping aside for fresh leadership in Micoud South.