BARBUDA – The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) formally introduced its five candidates contesting the March 26 Barbuda Local Government election during a public presentation at Madison Square on Sunday. The event saw spirited speeches from the candidates, who outlined their vision for Barbuda’s development and pledged to bring effective leadership to the Barbuda Council.
The ABLP’s slate includes Bernard Alexander Christian, Makisha Desouza, Bonita John, Orlando Morris, and Arthur Nibbs, each of whom spoke on the need for change in Barbuda’s governance, highlighting what they described as the failures of the current Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM)-led Council.
Bernard Alexander Christian, an entrepreneur with a background in law enforcement and forensic training, emphasized his commitment to job creation and youth development. He highlighted his efforts in establishing a security company that exclusively employs Barbudans and his vision to foster economic empowerment.
Christian criticized the current Council for failing to provide opportunities for young people, stating, “Barbuda should not still look like it was hit by Hurricane Irma yesterday. The means to rebuild are there, but the leadership is failing.” He pledged to work with investors to create more employment opportunities and to improve sports and recreational facilities for youth.
Makisha Desouza, a former council member, emphasized her dedication to economic empowerment and sustainable development. She noted that over 200 Barbudans are currently employed by the major investment projects on the island and urged residents to embrace opportunities for entrepreneurship.
Desouza criticized the BPM Council for opposing development projects, arguing that the lack of progress on infrastructure and social services was a direct result of their obstructionist approach. “We are about progress, not sitting in an office and opposing every single project,” she declared, urging voters to support the ABLP candidates for real change.
Bonita John Desouza, a law enforcement officer, emphasized her deep-rooted connection to Barbuda and her commitment to improving community services. She outlined plans to introduce a youth skills program to provide after-school activities and training for young people.
John-Desouza also expressed concern over the state of healthcare on the island, stating, “It is unacceptable that Barbuda residents have to travel to Antigua for basic medical services. We need to fix this.” She promised to push for better facilities and to advocate for the needs of the community.
Orlando Morris, a former council secretary with experience in multiple government departments, took a strong stance against the BPM-led Council, accusing them of neglecting infrastructure and failing to capitalize on opportunities for Barbuda’s economic advancement.
Morris argued that the Barbuda Council had mismanaged resources and ignored essential services. “We have the highest pile of garbage in the Caribbean,” he said, referencing the ongoing issues with waste management. He called for a strategic approach to governance that prioritizes community development and sustainable economic policies.
Arthur Nibbs, a veteran politician and former Barbuda MP, closed the presentations with a call for experience and proven leadership. He highlighted his long history in governance and criticized the BPM for failing to improve basic infrastructure and public services despite holding power for years.
Nibbs reminded the audience that the Barbuda Council is responsible for local governance and that its continued failures are not the fault of the central government. “Why reward a council that has failed you?” he asked, urging voters to elect the ABLP slate for a more effective administration.
Throughout the event, speakers reinforced the ABLP’s campaign theme, “Safer with Labour,” highlighting their party’s record in securing major investments such as the Barbuda International Airport, Paradise Found, and PLH Ocean Club. They argued that only an ABLP-led Council could ensure continued progress for the island.
The March 26 election will see voters choosing five council members, with the ABLP hoping to secure a majority to implement their development agenda.
With campaign momentum building, the ABLP candidates urged residents to turn out in large numbers on Election Day, promising to deliver meaningful change if elected.
The rally concluded with entertainment and calls for unity among Barbudans, with the candidates pledging to work collaboratively for the island’s future.
Election Day Details
Polling stations will open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. at the Holy Trinity School. Voters are encouraged to participate in shaping Barbuda’s future by casting their ballots for the candidates they believe will best represent their interests.
