The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) is calling on Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre to address the nation soon, following public confirmation that Cabinet Minister Richard Frederick is under police investigation.
In a July 9 press release, the UWP noted that on July 2, 2026, police officers searched Minister Frederick’s home.
“Minister Frederick subsequently confirmed that his home was searched, that he was detained and questioned for several hours, and that investigators seized his cellular phone as part of the investigation. He further stated that he could not discuss the matter because the investigation is ongoing,” the UWP press release stated.
“These are extraordinary developments involving one of the most senior members of the Government of Saint Lucia. They cannot be met with silence from the country’s political leadership.”
The UWP wants the investigation to continue independently, professionally and without interference.
“Like every citizen, Minister Frederick is entitled to the presumption of innocence and due process under the law. The United Workers Party will not speculate on matters that are properly the responsibility of the investigators.”
However, the UWP notes that it is a fact, not speculation, that a Cabinet Minister has confirmed his home was searched, he was detained and questioned by police, and his phone was seized during an active investigation. The UWP believes these facts alone mean the Prime Minister should respond.
“The existence of an ongoing police investigation does not relieve the Prime Minister of his responsibility to account to the people of Saint Lucia. While the police determine the facts, the Prime Minister must determine whether the circumstances require political action,” the UWP said.
The UWP went on to ask the following questions in the release:
“Has the Prime Minister been formally briefed on this investigation?”
“Does Richard Frederick continue to enjoy the Prime Minister’s full confidence?”
“Will Minister Frederick continue to discharge the responsibilities of ministerial office while he is the subject of an active police investigation?”
The UWP also said these questions are not for the Commissioner of Police, but for the Prime Minister alone. The party added that the Office of the Prime Minister is ultimately responsible for the Cabinet’s conduct, credibility, and accountability, and that this responsibility cannot be deferred simply because of a police investigation.
The UWP says the Prime Minister has a duty to lead, meaning he should not remain silent. He should clearly tell the people of Saint Lucia how his government plans to respond to these unusual events.
The United Workers Party concluded its statement by urging the Prime Minister to address the nation without further delay.
