Tevaughn “Peter Redz” Harriette Says Loyalty Politics Led to His Replacement as UPP Candidate

Harriette Says Internal Politics Cost Him UPP Role in St. Peter

Tevaughn “Peter Redz” Harriette, former United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for St. Peter, has claimed that his replacement as caretaker and candidate for the constituency was due to internal party dynamics prioritizing loyalty over capability.

Speaking on the Knight Show on Observer Radio, Harriette said his decision to back Richard Lewis in the UPP leadership contest over current leader Jamale Pringle ultimately led to his removal.

He also rejected rumors that legal issues had played a role in his exclusion, describing such claims as baseless and fabricated by individuals within the party.

Harriette argued that these rumors were used to justify sidelining him, despite his close ties to the constituency and his willingness to contest the by-election following the death of former MP Asot Michael.

The party’s decision to select another candidate was, according to Harriette, poorly received in St. Peter. He suggested that the lack of local connections between the chosen candidate and the constituency led to low voter turnout and weak support during the by-election.

Harriette described his own campaign in the 2023 general elections as a major effort in challenging circumstances.

Running against well-funded opponents, he said he worked hard to engage young voters and represent the interests of the community. Despite the outcome, he maintained that his efforts strengthened the party’s presence in St. Peter.

Reflecting on his political journey, Harriette said his experiences highlighted deeper issues within the UPP, including a tendency to reward internal loyalty at the expense of broader strategic planning.

He warned that such practices risk alienating potential candidates, especially young people looking to contribute to public service.

Though he remains a member of the UPP, Harriette expressed disappointment with his treatment and urged the party to adopt a more inclusive and transparent approach moving forward.

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