Veteran parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph closed a 42-year career in national politics with a deeply personal and reflective address in Parliament, blending spirituality, political counsel and a call for national responsibility as he stepped away from active service.

The long-serving St. Mary’s North MP used his final contribution to reaffirm his commitment to public service, even in retirement, while urging citizens and leaders alike to safeguard the country’s future through unity, discipline and strong governance.

“I am a proud and happy man,” Joseph told Parliament, adding that although he is retiring, “the people of St. Mary’s know it will continue to get the service from me as they did before I retired.”

A Spiritual Foundation and Personal Journey

Joseph framed much of his career through the lens of faith and upbringing, describing himself as “a deeply spiritual man” whose values were shaped early in life.

Reciting lines from the hymn What a Friend We Have in Jesus, he signaled a message of peace and resilience, declaring, “I will not forfeit my peace this morning… I will not be discouraged today.”

He credited his parents for instilling discipline, decency and a strong sense of purpose, recalling lessons about “the meaning of courtesy” and “do the right thing” that guided his decades in public life.

Legacy, Longevity and Political Credibility

Reflecting on his electoral success, Joseph pointed to his record as evidence of public trust.

“You don’t win eight elections in this country… without being a credible politician,” he said, noting that his constituency support grew to more than 5,000 voters over time.

He described his career as part of a broader political tradition shaped by the Antigua Labour Party and past leaders, stressing that progress is built on foundations laid by previous generations.

“Political stability does not come by chance,” he said, warning against distractions and urging continued focus on national development.

A Call for National Responsibility

A central theme of Joseph’s address was the need for a cultural shift toward personal and civic responsibility.

He urged citizens to adopt a more proactive mindset, arguing that development requires individual action as much as government intervention.

“We need a renaissance in this country… a new mindset,” he said, adding, “If your neighborhood is dirty, you clean it… you don’t wait.”

Drawing on his decades of experience, he said the country must learn from past shortcomings and embrace a new era of accountability and self-reliance.

Strong Defence of Current Leadership

Joseph used his final speech to strongly back the current administration, warning against political change at a time of global uncertainty.

“This is not time to play around with governance,” he said, pointing to economic instability and international tensions as reasons for continuity in leadership.

He argued that effective leadership requires awareness of global realities, adding that Antigua and Barbuda must remain guided by experienced decision-makers.

COVID-19, Crisis and Cooperation

Highlighting his tenure as Minister of Health, Joseph described the COVID-19 pandemic as the most difficult period of his career.

He expressed disappointment that national unity was not stronger during the crisis.

“How could anybody not support the efforts to fight COVID… when people were dying?” he asked, calling for bipartisan cooperation during national emergencies.

He credited the government with steering the country through the crisis and reopening the tourism sector, a key pillar of the economy.

Health Warning to the Nation

In one of the most urgent segments of his address, Joseph raised alarm over rising non-communicable diseases, including cancer, diabetes and hypertension.

“I’ve never seen more cancers… more diabetes… more hypertension,” he said, warning that unhealthy diets and processed foods are contributing to a growing national health crisis.

He called on citizens to change their eating habits and take responsibility for their well-being, noting that illnesses once associated with older adults are now affecting children.

“Come to a halt… look at what is happening and let us collectively decide that we’re going to change course,” he urged.

Loyalty, Service and a Defining Decision

Joseph also reflected on a pivotal moment in his life when he declined the opportunity to become a U.S. citizen, choosing instead to return home and serve Antigua and Barbuda.

“I chose to forego that… and say I am coming back to Antigua and Barbuda to serve,” he said, describing the decision as central to his identity and career.

He reaffirmed his loyalty to the Antigua Labour Party, stating, “I ain’t going anywhere… I will be sticking to this party.”

Transition and Support for Successor

Joseph endorsed his successor in St. Mary’s North, voicing “total support” and pledging to remain engaged in the constituency.

He dismissed speculation about political pressure behind his retirement, saying the decision was driven by personal and family considerations.

“When your wife speaks… and the children speak, it’s a super majority,” he said, explaining that after decades in public life, his family now requires more of his time.

Final Message: Service Beyond Office

Closing his address, Joseph described his political career as “a great opportunity to serve,” expressing hope that the country remains on a path of progress under capable leadership.

He urged citizens and leaders alike to maintain momentum, preserve national unity and continue building on the country’s achievements.

As he exits Parliament, Joseph leaves behind a legacy defined by longevity, loyalty and an enduring message: that nation-building requires both strong leadership and active participation from its people.