DLP candidates ‘not distracted’

by COLVILLE MOUNSEY

colvillemounsey@nationnews.com

DEMOCRATIC LABOUR PARTY (DLP) candidates for St Michael Central and The City of Bridgetown have sought to downplay any perceived political advantage arising from the Barbados Labour Party’s (BLP) impending nomination contests in the two ridings.

They insist that their focus remains firmly on engaging voters and addressing national concerns.

DLP candidate for St Michael Central, Senator Andre Worrell, said developments within the ruling BLP had not altered his campaign strategy.

“When I entered the race, I always anticipated that I would run against an opponent from the Barbados Labour Party, whether that was the Speaker of the House Arthur Holder or someone else,” he said.

“My focus has always been getting into the constituency so people know who Andre Worrell is and the type of representative I intend to be.”

News broke over the weekend that Holder would not be seeking a third term and that nominations have been set for January 15. Thus far, attorney Tyra Trotman, who recently resigned from the DLP, is the sole person contesting the nomination.

Nomination

The nomination meeting for The City is slated for January 17, with question marks looming as to who will be the nominees and whether incumbent Corey Lane will be seeking re-election.

Worrell said his campaign was centred on working with constituents to ensure their needs were addressed.

“At the end of the day, it’s about the people. It’s about listening to them and being the kind of representative the people of Barbados need at this time,” he said, adding that he had no intention of becoming involved in the internal affairs of the BLP.

“We don’t yet know who will be the candidate. Other persons can enter the race between now and the 15th of January and could be successful,” he said.

“So we’ll wait and see how their process goes, but I will continue meeting people and getting to know them.”

He said feedback on the ground had been positive, but noted growing dissatisfaction among voters over issues such as the cost of living and crime.

“The persons are obviously not pleased with how things have been happening in this country. People are hoping for change and representation that will listen to them and correct many of the ills within the constituency.”

Opportunity

Meanwhile, DLP candidate for The City, Dale Rowe, also said changes within the governing party will not affect his campaign.

“I congratulate all candidates from all parties and wish them success. This is a space where anyone has the opportunity to put their hat in the ring.”

He said his objective was being a strong voice for residents of The City, with a focus on rebuilding trust and revitalising the constituency.

“My vision is to help the people and to rebrand The City. I’m staying true to that goal.”

Rowe noted that he had been on the ground since his nomination last year, engaging with residents and building relationships, adding the response has been encouraging.

“The people in The City are very loving and caring. What they want is someone who . . . has The City’s best interest at heart.”

Asked about his prospects at the polls, he said he remained confident but grounded.

“By the grace of God, I put it all in His hands and I know I will be successful in the end,” he said.