Archbishop: Maintain democratic values during election campaign

ST LUCIA

As the nation approaches the December 1 General Elections, the St Lucia Christian Council is calling on citizens, candidates, and institutions to uphold integrity, responsibility, and democratic values throughout the electoral process.

In a statement written by Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Castries, the Council urges St Lucians to embrace the coming polls with seriousness and civic maturity.

Archbishop Malzaire described the upcoming vote as a profound national moment, stating that “General elections stand as one of the noblest expressions of human freedom and civic responsibility.”

He added that elections are more than political rituals; they reflect the country’s core values and its commitment to justice, democracy, and good governance.

The Archbishop highlighted the global and historical struggle for universal suffrage, reminding St Lucians that “people have fought, suffered, and even died to secure the right of every citizen to participate in the decision-making process of their country.”

He noted that each election is “an opportunity to reaffirm our independence… and to remind ourselves that power in a democracy belongs to the people.”

Calling voting a moral duty, Archbishop Malzaire said it is “not simply an act of choice between candidates; it is a moral obligation.” He urges voters to choose leaders based on who can best serve the common good, rather than on emotion, political loyalty, or personal advantage.

Democracy, he warned, can only flourish when voters are free to act without pressure or manipulation. “True democracy thrives only where people can vote according to their conscience, without coercion, bribery, or deceit,” he stated, calling on society’s institutions—from government bodies to the media and the Church—to protect the integrity of the process.

The Archbishop placed strong emphasis on the ethical obligations of political candidates. “Every candidate should therefore present to the electorate clear, realistic, and transparent policies—plans that are aimed at improving the quality of life of all citizens, particularly the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalised.”

He further cautioned those seeking public office that leadership must not be used for personal benefit. “Candidates for election must remember that their calling is one of service, not self-interest.”

The Archbishop condemned vote-buying tactics, saying that offering gifts or money “cheapens the democratic process and replaces principle with opportunism.” True leadership, he said, inspires trust rather than purchasing it.

Emphasising transparency and fairness, Archbishop Malzaire noted that election officials, law enforcement, and the media have crucial roles in ensuring a credible vote. Citizens, he added, have the right to access reliable information about the candidates and issues that will shape the nation’s future.

Elections should also strengthen national unity. He said those who win must govern with humility, while those who lose must accept the results with dignity to maintain democratic stability.

The Archbishop stressed that democracy does not end when the ballots are counted. “A responsible citizenry does not retreat into silence after casting its vote,” he said, urging continued engagement, accountability, and participation in national life.

With December 1 drawing near, Archbishop Malzaire noted that St Lucia stands “once more at a crossroads—a moment to decide what kind of country we wish to be.” The outcome, he said, will depend on whether the nation chooses division or unity, fear or principle.

He calls for this election to serve as “a testament to our national maturity—a model of civility, fairness, and respect for the democratic process.”