Malaka Parker, the United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for St John’s Rural North, says she is offering herself as a “frontline” representative for residents she claims have been neglected for years.

Parker said her daily canvassing has been “gruelling,” but driven by concern for constituents and a growing awareness of hardship in the area.

A central focus of her campaign is the absence of what she describes as effective representation by the current Member of Parliament. She said residents frequently complain that their MP is “largely unseen and unfelt” in the community.

Parker has announced a town hall meeting for Thursday, saying it forms part of a wider plan for consistent community engagement if elected.

She added that she believes the constituency is ready for change, saying: “I feel that I’m on the cusp of change.”