United Progressive Party candidate Kelton Dalso has defended the low voter turnout in the party’s St. George primary, saying it was the result of financial eligibility requirements rather than a lack of support within the constituency.

Speaking during a Twin Island Media Live interview, Dalso said party rules require members to be financially in good standing for a minimum period before they are eligible to vote in a primary, and that those rules were applied evenly.

He said members had been encouraged weeks in advance to regularize their status but many failed to meet the eligibility deadline, making them ineligible to cast ballots on the night of the vote.

Dalso rejected claims that the turnout reflected apathy or organizational weakness, noting that the venue was filled with supporters who were present but unable to vote because they did not meet the financial requirements.

He said responsibility for eligibility rests with individual members, adding that party rules cannot be ignored or adjusted at the last minute to accommodate those who did not comply.

Dalso argued that maintaining clear standards is necessary for internal discipline and credibility, particularly as the party seeks to strengthen its organizational structures ahead of the next general election.

He said the process demonstrated adherence to party rules and internal democracy, even when the outcome is politically inconvenient.