By the Caribbean Journal
The OAS’ electoral observer mission is concerned that St Lucia’s campaign financing rules remain in a “gray zone,” despite a recommendation in 2006 calling for established rules.
The mission said that in the absence of appropriate legislation, the source of financing for campaign funds could not be determined.
In St Lucia, anonymous contributions and those of foreigners are allowed, something which the body said “goes against general norms and practices around the world.”
Further, the mission noted that St Lucians have no access to information regarding campaign financing by the parties.
The OAS observer mission was led by Dr Rosina Wiltshire, and did praise the country’s elections for their “fluid and peaceful manner.”
“I wish to congratulate the St Lucian people for exercising their franchise peacefully and look forward to working with the newly-elected government,” said OAS Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza in a statement.
Dr Kenny Anthony’s St Lucia Labour Party regained power in Monday’s elections, defeating Prime Minister Stephenson King’s United Workers Party.