Richard Lewis has defended his record in office and urged voters in St. John’s Rural West to return him to Parliament, declaring that the constituency will “stay the course” with his leadership.
Speaking at the United Progressive Party’s campaign launch on Sunday night, Lewis told supporters he would continue to represent the constituency “with added determination, dignity, and honor,” while pledging to keep advocating on behalf of residents.
“I will continue to fight for you against any form of injustice. I will continue to fight on your behalf so your lives and livelihoods can be improved,” he said.
Lewis, the incumbent Member of Parliament, framed the upcoming April 30 general election as a decision on continuity, warning against what he described as past political missteps in the constituency.
“The people of Rural West experimented in 2018 and it was a resounding failure… no more experimentation. We’re done with that,” he said.
He added that voters had already returned to the United Progressive Party in the last election and should maintain that direction.
“Wisely, we return to our roots in 2023… we’re staying the course with Richard Lewis and the United Progressive Party,” he said.
Lewis also emphasised his personal connection to the constituency, telling supporters, “I love and respect you,” while urging them to back him and the party at the polls.
“Come April 30th, when you go to the polls, put your X beside the sun,” he said.
The Rural West candidate’s remarks followed a presentation by UPP leader Jamale Pringle, who outlined the party’s national platform, including proposals on cost-of-living relief, water access and public accountability.
Lewis said his continued representation would be part of a broader effort by the party to improve conditions for residents across Antigua and Barbuda, while maintaining what he described as stability within his constituency.
The St. John’s Rural West seat is expected to be closely contested in the general election, with both major parties stepping up their campaigns ahead of polling day.