In a video address over the weekend, the Prime Minister responded to what he described as misrepresentations and falsehoods.

The press release had alleged that on nomination day, Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire arrived with a man dressed as a devil, suggesting a deliberate mockery of Christian values. Pierre dismissed the claim, noting the cultural context of local celebrations.

“Come on, let us don’t take it to that level. That’s something in local parlance called [tolls]. But you can’t blame the leader of the opposition because he’s clearly said where he is a product of. Except when Saint Lucians have celebrations, there are no [Toes] in Canada. So I guess I can understand, he doesn’t understand the cultural relevance of [Toes] in our celebrations,” he said.

Pierre also addressed assertions regarding a national code of conduct promoted by the Christian Council. The press release claimed that the SLP refused to sign the code while the UWP had done so.

“Again, I dare the United Workers’ Party to see if that code has been signed, when it will be signed, and if I ever disagree. That, again, is a lie. I have never said I will not sign it nor have I ever communicated in any form or fashion that I will not sign the code,” the Prime Minister stated.

The UWP had further alleged that the government repealed burglary laws without consulting the Christian community. Pierre clarified that no laws had been repealed and referenced court decisions relating to constitutional rights.

“Listeners, we live in an enlightened society and people should not disrespect you. Listen to what happened as far as the buggy laws is concerned. Randolph Theodule, Vernon Bellas, and United and Strong. On the 16th November 2021, claimants filed an originating motion supported by affidavits… The claimants sought declarations that Sections 132 and 133 of the Criminal Code contravene the constitutional right of the first and second claimants and rights of other LGBT members in Saint Lucia,” Pierre explained.

He added that similar legal decisions occurred in St. Kitts and other countries. “Where did the government repeal any law? About what?” he asked.

The Prime Minister also addressed allegations that he remained silent on the killings of Christians in Nigeria: “What is that? I am actually at a loss as to what that one… I don’t understand it. The United States had relationships with Nigeria. Everybody, England, Bahrain. That one, I don’t understand,” he said.

Pierre further dismissed claims that he promoted political idolatry in a Christian context. “I’ve never said so. And again, it is where the mind of these people are. That phrase ‘Ti Jési’ is a phrase that’s been in politics for a long time. It wasn’t called any ‘Ti Jési,’ that’s a long time. George Charles, Mikey Pilgrim, John Compton, all these people call that name. So to get that low really shows the desperation of the United Workers’ Party,” he added.

The Prime Minister concluded his address by urging Saint Lucians to critically examine claims made during the election campaign and to be guided by facts rather than politically motivated allegations.