The Digest:
Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip Pierre condemned the criticism and denigration of President Bola Tinubu's visit to the Caribbean, emphasizing the historical significance of such visits. According to NTA, the criticism reflects the harmful legacy of slavery.
Key Points:
- Prime Minister Pierre addressed the vilification of President Tinubu’s visit on Saint Lucia’s 2025 Emancipation Day.
- He described the backlash as an act of “self-hate” linked to the legacy of slavery.
- The criticisms largely focused on the cost of the visit, airport disruptions, and its potential outcomes.
- Pierre asserted that the response would have been more respectful had the visit been from another head of state.
- The Saint Lucia government has affirmed its commitment to bilateral agreements made during the visit.
- Saint Lucia awarded President Tinubu the highest national honor, Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia, in recognition of strengthening ties with Africa.
- Pierre underscored that such behavior was “shameful and disgraceful.”
The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia defended President Tinubu’s visit, calling out the disrespect from critics and reinforcing the importance of African-Caribbean cooperation. Despite the criticism, the visit was marked by historic recognition.
Sources: NTA, Premium Times, Vanguard
