Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. *Photo credit: embacu.cubaminrex.cu

ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – The Dominica Labour Party (DLP) edged closer to regaining power in this Caribbean island after it moved within five seats of winning the general election here on Friday.

Preliminary figures released here showed that the DLP, which is seeking a third consecutive term in office had so far won the  Grandbay, Paix Bouche, Castle Bruce, Morne Jaune/Riviere, Salybia  and Cottage constituencies, while its main challenger, the United Workers Party (UWP) was victorious in La Plaine, Wesley and Salisbury.

There are 21 seats at stake in the general election and the DLP is leading in Vielle Case, Colihaut, Mahaut, Roseau Central and Portsmouth constituencies.

Supporters of the ruling party have already taken to the streets in celebration and are expected to converge in the second town of Portsmouth, north of here, where Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit will address a celebration rally.

Opposition Leader Ron Green 69, retained the La Plaine constituency  defeating  newcomer Petter (correct) Saint-Jean by a  margin of 12, after he polled 727 votes in the constituency that he won by just under 200 votes in the 2005 general election.

Former prime minister Edison James, comfortably won the Wesley constituency, polling 833 votes.