Supporters from all 17 constituencies descended on the Caribbean Cinemas Parking Lot this past weekend as the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) officially launched John Paul Estephane as its candidate for Babonneau ahead of the next general election.
Estephane will contest the seat currently held by the SLP under the stewardship of Dr Virginia Albert-Poyotte. His selection marks the party’s move to introduce new faces while maintaining its focus on community-based leadership.
Addressing the large gathering on October 12, Estephane expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to lead with unity and inclusion.
“My people of Babonneau, it is with great humility and gratitude, I accept your endorsement to contest the next election for the Saint Lucia Labour Party and serve as your parliamentary representative,” he said.
Echoing his campaign slogan, he added:
“Everyone included, everyone empowered — John Paul for all.”
Speaking candidly about his humble beginnings in Des Barras, Estephane said his journey reflects the resilience and determination of ordinary Saint Lucians. He outlined several initiatives he plans to champion if elected, focusing on improving local livelihoods, and expanding access to essential services.
Among his proposals are the creation of a vendor’s market to help farmers and small producers sell their goods, the establishment of an Early Childhood Education Centre to address absenteeism in Garrand Babonneau, and the upgrading of sporting facilities to support youth development.
Estephane also emphasised continuity in representation, vowing to build on work started under Albert-Poyotte — particularly in the area of housing and land access.
“I am aware that Dr Poyotte had started engaging constituents on the issue of housing and occupation of Crown lands. I intend to build on this initiative in line with the Prime Minister’s policy,” he said.
Casting the upcoming election as a choice between progress and regression, Estephane urged supporters to stay the course.
“This election is about staying with a Saint Lucia Labour Party that has brought benefits to every sector of this society… We cannot go back, we won’t go back. We are moving forward,” he declared to applause.
As the SLP continues its series of candidate launches across the island, Estephane’s endorsement adds momentum to the party’s campaign.
