Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) candidate Randy Baltimore said the party is “strong and ready” in St. Philip’s North after being formally nominated Wednesday to contest the March 16 by-election.

Baltimore, a former principal customs officer who resigned last week to run, was declared duly nominated at the Nelvie N. Gore Primary School in Willikies after submitting the required proposer, seconder and eight supporting electors, along with the statutory deposit .

“Very happy, very happy to be nominated for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party,” Baltimore said in an interview with state media shortly after the process concluded. “And I’m very happy to see the support coming out to their nomination day. This means that the Labour Party in this constituency is strong and ready.”

The by-election was triggered by the retirement of long-serving MP Sir Robin Yearwood after five decades in Parliament. Baltimore said he intends to build on that legacy.

“With Sir Robin passing the torch, it is my philosophy to continue and to build on that foundation going forward,” he said.

Asked whether he believes he has done enough groundwork to secure victory, Baltimore responded, “Yes, yes, we have done the work. We continue to do the work. And on March 16th, we will become the victor for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party within the constituency of St. Philip’s North.”

Baltimore is facing United Progressive Party candidate Alex Browne, who lost the seat in the 2023 general election by fewer than 100 votes.

“I’m connected with the people,” Baltimore said when asked what sets him apart. “My commitment, my work, my work has been showing for a number of years, even before politics. And it is very important that I go forward in that same attitude.”

He added, “Within the constituency, there are many initiatives that I have put on. So the people of St. Philip’s North know me. They’re connected to me.”

Baltimore identified infrastructure, education and health as his priority areas.

“Well, most importantly, infrastructure. Infrastructure, education, and health,” he said. “I intend to continue with the lobbying with the government to have continuous road work, continuous infrastructure.”

He pointed to previous initiatives, including a health fair and a homework programme, and pledged to seek more scholarships for constituents.

Urging voters to prepare for the poll, Baltimore said, “The most important thing right now is to pick up your cards. Get your cards renewed. Voting for Randy Baltimore is voting for a new era, a new life, a new vision within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party and within St. Philip’s North.”

He also signaled plans to expand outreach to elderly residents, saying he would pursue “more initiatives for the elderly so that they will feel more embraced within our community.”

Baltimore was accompanied by party supporters, including Cabinet ministers, as well as family members. His wife, Nikisha Baltimore, described her role as offering encouragement, while his mother said she was “very, very proud.”

Campaigning is expected to intensify in the coming weeks ahead of the March 16 vote.