Norberts note encouraging turnout as Micoud North votes

Early indications in Micoud North pointed to an encouraging level of Election Day voter participation in the constituency. 

United Workers Party (UWP) Candidate Elisha Norbert spent the day visiting multiple polling stations, noting a generally positive turnout and expressed appreciation to residents who made the effort to stand in line to vote.

“I’ve been through all the different stations. The numbers are quite encouraging,” he told St Lucia Times. “I thank them for coming out…standing in their lines.”  

In a separate interview, the Saint Lucia Labour Party’s (SLP) Jeremiah Norbert, who is defending the seat, said he had a similar experience.

“I’m happy with the rate at which I see the lines moving,” he said, welcoming the steady flow of voters throughout the morning.

However, Elisha Norbert also pointed to a small number of issues which caused confusion and prevented some individuals from voting. “Some of my voters were asked to leave… [without being] given clear instructions,” he explained, noting that a few were turned away after failing to present their identification cards.

He further suggested that Saint Lucia may benefit from increased education around the voting process, starting at a young age.

“Maybe it’s time we start teaching our young people in school how to vote,” Norbert said, pointing to gaps in civic education and advocating for greater preparation of future voters.

In a wider reflection on the meaning of election day, the UWP candidate emphasised unity and progress over political division. “Every election day should be a day that makes St. Lucia better and not worse,” he said, adding that he longed for a future where elections would be “more of an enjoyable experience and not a tense one.”

He also reflected on his personal journey throughout the campaign, expressing satisfaction in being able to share his vision regardless of the final result. “No matter what the outcomes are today, I am glad that I was able to share my ideas,” he stated.

Jeremiah Norbert expressed optimism about the early voter turnout, saying it was a positive sign for the democratic process.

“High voter turnout actually sends a message that people are interested in the democratic process,” the SLP candidate said.  

Among the voters, one resident described the process as fair, highlighting the simplicity of casting a ballot. “It is not much, a simple process,” the voter said, comparing the lines at polling stations to everyday queues seen at banks and other public areas.

Once inside, “It probably took me about 20 seconds,” the voter explained, encouraging others not to be discouraged by the lines. 

He expressed hope for stability and continuity in governance. “I’m hoping for continued governance,” the individual said. “I feel that our government has been doing well, so I have to come and play my part to keep them there.”

A first-time voter said that the reason why she came to vote is for “better” and encouraged others to vote while another stated that he “[does] not want the constituency to change” which is why he came out to cast his vote. 

The article Norberts note encouraging turnout as Micoud North votes is from St. Lucia Times.