New DLP candidates “ready to serve”, independent candidates to contest
The Dominica Labour Party (DLP) campaign rallies are in full swing for the 2022 general elections.
After the introduction of the Northern team, presentations for other DLP new candidates are held in their respective constituencies — all expressing their “readiness” to serve.
Candidate for the Petite Savanne Constituency, Jullan Defoe, said he is ready to take the baton and selflessly serve to help Dominica journey forward.
“I won’t stop until I have touched every life in a very positive way. I am here to provide a selfless service for the upliftment of others so they can know what it is to be fulfilled with a sense of accomplishment and pride.”
Defoe outlined his plan for his constituents, with housing as a major priority.
“Some of these significant projects I speak of include completion of the housing project funded under the Citizenship by Investment Programme in Grand Bay… and Bagatelle”
Also included in his agenda, once elected, are greater investments in fisheries, agriculture, sports, and roads.
Concurrently, residents of Colihaut have welcomed the candidacy of Daren Pinard to replace incumbent MP Catherine Daniel.
“I am here to make sure that the people of the Colihaut constituency are very well served and represented,” said Pinard.
In his speech, Pinard promised significant educational advances in the form of learning and community centres across the constituency. Additionally, he added that he would run awareness programmes to educate college passed outs about scholarships.
“We will contact people looking to get further education; we will do what is necessary; we will identify scholarship opportunities for all; we will help the students fill out forms and give all the support.”
Linton calls for boycott, independent candidates to contest
In a radio program, opposition leader Lennox Linton called the public to “stand down” from the election and “leave it alone”. Both the United Workers Party (UWP) and the Dominica Freedom Party have refused to contest in the upcoming elections they deem fraudulent.
On the other hand, the Alternative People’s Party (APP) has asked candidates to come forward for the December 6 general elections even if they view the announcement for an election as an abuse of the Prime Minister’s constitutional power.
“All abled and suitable men and women of this great land are hereby called upon to offer themselves for service to their country to save it from the tyranny of an impending dictatorship by offering themselves as candidates in this election!” said APP President Tahira Blanchard.
First to contest as an independent candidate is Attorney at law Wayne Norde. Norde held a motorcade in the Roseau South constituency, promising supporters of “proper representation”.
“My people, if you are with me, I am with you. All I am asking for from Roseau South is a chance. A chance to represent you properly. I am the ideal man to represent you because I know you, your culture, your heart, and what we live for in Roseau South.”
Norde further assured supporters that he is not affiliated with any political party on the island.
Meanwhile, Anthony Charles will challenge Gregory Riviere for the Marigot constituency. Charles said he was encouraged by supporters of the UWP to run.
“By boycotting the election, Marigot will not be democratic, and I am not going to allow that to be. The voters of Marigot, the youth, approached me and said they are not leaving Marigot as a docile constituency.”
Charles is confident he will bag the constituency because Gregory Riviere is not outspoken enough.
“I am going to win the seat,” he said. “It’s not an if or maybe. I am going to win the seat.”