The Saint Lucia Labour Party has officially confirmed John Paul Estephane as its endorsed candidate for the Babonneau constituency in the next general election, ending weeks of speculation and informal reports.
During a pre-cabinet press briefing on September 1, current Babonneau MP Virginia Albert-Poyotte told reporters she had not received formal notification of her replacement.
“I was informed through a very short message by an undisclosed source,” she said. “So I am waiting for the official correspondence on that matter. When I get the official correspondence, I will respond accordingly.”
St Lucia Times had previously reported Estephane’s endorsement, though rumours of his imminent selection had circulated for nearly two months.
On September 2, just one day after Poyotte’s remarks, this newspaper received a letter bearing the Saint Lucia Labour Party’s letterhead and ostensibly signed by General Secretary Leo Clarke. Dated August 30, 2025, the letter was addressed to Poyotte and confirmed the party’s decision.
“I have been authorised as SLP General Secretary to confirm to you that the candidate selection process for the Babonneau Constituency concluded on Tuesday 26th August, 2025,” the letter read in part, “with the ratification by the national executive committee of the recommendation of Political Leader, Hon. Philip J Pierre, that Mr John Paul Estephane be chosen as the Party’s candidate for Babonneau to contest the next general election.”
The letter also thanked Poyotte for her participation in the selection process and expressed confidence in her continued contribution to the government’s performance during the remainder of its term.
In addition to Babonneau, the SLP has announced a new candidate for Choiseul-Saltibus: Keithson Charles, who will contest the seat currently held by United Workers Party MP Bradley Felix.Â
