Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), Dr. Thomson Fontaine, has denied claims of internal division within the party following the resignation of Deputy Political Leader Delbert Paris. The fallout comes amid growing differences over the party’s approach to the recently passed Electoral Reform legislation and the UWP’s position on participating in the upcoming general elections.
In an interview aired on Q95FM, Fontaine responded directly to suggestions that Paris’s departure signals disarray within the party. “The United Workers Party is unified in its principles,” Fontaine stated. “Mr. Paris has chosen a different path, but the movement continues with strength.”
Paris, a former Roseau Valley candidate and vocal figure in the party’s youth wing, stepped down after publicly expressing concern that the UWP may abandon its boycott and contest elections under the new electoral framework. He accused Fontaine of pivoting too quickly and suggested that the party is losing its commitment to preconditions for electoral fairness.
Fontaine has firmly rejected that view. He maintains that while the UWP continues to monitor the reform rollout, the newly passed Registration of Electors Act, House of Assembly Elections Act, and Electoral Commission Act represent significant progress. “We will never surrender our demand for a truly free and fair process,” he said, “but we also must engage the people and protect democracy by being present.”
Observers have pointed to growing tensions within the UWP over its long-running election boycott, which some party activists and diaspora members feel has diminished its relevance on the ground. Fontaine’s recent outreach efforts in the U.S., coupled with remarks suggesting possible re-engagement, have fueled speculation of an internal policy shift.
The Prime Minister and government officials have declined direct comment on the resignation but have emphasized the transparent nature of the reforms, which are supported by legislation and now funded through a $6 million loan approved by Parliament.
With Paris’s departure, the UWP faces renewed pressure to clarify its electoral strategy ahead of a potential national poll. Fontaine, however, appears focused on reasserting control and reuniting his party base, both at home and abroad. Whether the UWP reclaims its position as the leading opposition force or slips further into internal debate may depend on how it navigates the weeks ahead.
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