The Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) candidate selection meeting, scheduled for Saturday evening in Biabou, may be reduced to a formality amid reports that one of the contenders has been asked to withdraw from the race.
A source close to the Louis Daisley campaign told ANN that Daisley received a call on Monday around 5:20 p.m. from the party leader, instructing him to pull out of the race. According to the source, the leader reportedly told Daisley, “I’m not having any elections, I already have my candidate, and you are not the candidate.”
The source further stated that internal criticisms were raised against Daisley, with some party operatives on the ground labeling him as “the weakest candidate” and accusing his supporters of “creating confusion” in the constituency.
Another source claimed a follow-up call was made to Daisley to ensure he would attend Thursday’s meeting to formally withdraw.
When ANN reached out to Daisley for comment, he declined.
Daisley, who previously resided in the United States, returned home over a year ago and launched his campaign to represent South Windward. Recent polling conducted by Sentinel and the Special Branch reportedly showed Daisley leading the race ahead of his competitors: Daron “Rodan” John and Senator Ashelle Morgan. While both Morgan and John have been actively canvassing support in the area, John has had a more visible presence on social media.
Though it remains unclear who the party leader’s preferred candidate is, multiple sources believe the nod will go to Daron John. If selected, he would face retired teacher Andrew John, who is contesting the seat for the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), setting up a “battle of the Johns” in South Windward.
Meanwhile, supporters of Louis Daisley in the Stubbs area say they will be boycotting the selection meeting. “Tomorrow will be a day of reflection,” one supporter told ANN. “We’ll be cooking on the block, and we’re inviting Daisley to join us.”
Chanting over the phone during the interview, they added: “No Daisley, no vote!”
General elections are expected to be held later this year, with the ULP seeking a historic sixth consecutive term in office.