Housing and Local Government Minister Richard Frederick says he respects Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s decision to send him on administrative leave and has no hard feelings toward the Prime Minister.
Frederick spoke about the issue for the first time on his show, Can I Help You with Richard Frederick, after allegations surfaced involving the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) and other issues.
On August 31, 2026, Prime Minister Pierre announced that Frederick was placed on administrative leave while the allegations are investigated.
Frederick explained that he chose not to comment on the investigations earlier because he did not want to interfere with the process.
“I wanted to steer away from everything. I did not want to compromise the integrity of the investigations,” Frederick said. He also explained that he applied for leave and took a break from his show.
He made it clear that he accepts the Prime Minister’s authority to make decisions he thinks are necessary for his administration.
“Philip Joseph Pierre has to do what he feels is in the best interests of his government,” Frederick said. “Heavy is the head that wears the crown. And he not only has to protect his government, he has to protect his legacy.”
Frederick also rejected claims that the decision caused a rift between him and Pierre. He pointed out that the Prime Minister was under no obligation to appoint him to the Cabinet.
“He included me in his Cabinet, which he didn’t have to,” Frederick said. “I have utmost respect and regard for the Prime Minister and the decisions that he makes or takes.”
The Castries Central MP promised to keep supporting Pierre and the government for as long as the Prime Minister wants him on the team.
“If there is one man behind his back and it’s me, he need not worry,” Frederick declared. “I will give him my full support.”
Still, the minister admitted that the situation has affected his enthusiasm for political life.
“Sometimes I must tell you I feel I’ve lost the zeal,” he said, adding that his level of enthusiasm had diminished.
Despite these feelings, Frederick said he is aware of the people who rely on him and still sees himself as a team player committed to the government’s work.
“I will always be there to assist in the execution of the policies of the government, as long as the Prime Minister wants me there,” he said.
