MP Frederick Praises Peace Initiative as Step in Right Direction

Castries Central MP Richard Frederick has praised the recent ‘Peace and Love’ initiative which aims to guide at-risk youth toward positive lifestyles and quell gang violence. Last weekend’s initiative came on the heels of Saint Lucia’s record-breaking homicide numbers in 2024, which reached 77. According to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, most of the victims were young men aged 18-30.  The alarming rise in violence has spurred officials to seek meaningful solutions to address the crisis. Frederick explained that the ‘Peace and Love’ initiative was sparked by community elders who approached him for help in engaging troubled youth. Their collaboration began with conversations and led to a day of football and camaraderie last weekend, which brought out over 300 young people. “Based on what is trending on social media, so far as bringing the youngsters together is concerned, we felt that there was a proliferation of activity that was not necessarily in the best interest of a society in relation to tranquillity and the prevalence of peace,” Frederick said. “Some men, considered elders, initiated the idea of bringing them together and called me to participate.” He said the events were held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, where conversations...