Statement Announcing My Candidacy for Mahaut Constituency

Today, I am announcing my candidacy as an independent candidate for the Mahaut Constituency in the next general election. 

I am running to help build a constituency where people can earn a decent living, create a secure future and vote freely. 

I enter this race not out of ambition, but out of deep concern for our democracy, our economy and our future. After years of raising concerns about the direction of our country, I have concluded that speaking alone is no longer enough. I feel a responsibility to step forward, offer my time, energy and commitment, and work with others to build a better future. 

I will remain true to my values and put the Mahaut Constituency and its people first. Independence allows me to represent every resident, judge each issue on its merits and work with others whenever it serves the public interest. 

My vision is national, but my immediate responsibility is to the Mahaut Constituency. I have visited Belfast, Campbell, Canefield, Corona, Despor, Jimmit, Layou Park, Mahaut, Massacre, Roger, Springfield, Sultan, Sylvania, Tarreau and Warner. I have seen neglect, hardship and poverty, but above all, talent, possibility and hope. 

Residents have spoken about a stagnant economy and the lack of good work opportunities, the rising cost of living, neglected communities, too few facilities and activities for young people and sports, the difficulty some families face getting their children to school, inadequate support for children with special needs, and assistance and opportunities too often influenced by political favouritism. 

I have spoken with many young people, and the idea that they do not want to help themselves is simply not true. They are talented, resourceful and eager to succeed. What they need is a fair chance to put their talents to work, earn a decent living and build a future for themselves and their families. When opportunities remain out of reach, young people lose confidence that Dominica has a place for them. We must prove otherwise. 

I believe deeply in Dominica. We have talented people, extraordinary biodiversity, clean air and water, fertile land that supports our farmers and agriculture, fresh local food, a rich marine environment that sustains our fishers and coastal communities, endless adventure, room to breathe, and a way of life rooted in nature and community that is increasingly rare. These are assets of global value, but potential does not automatically become prosperity.  

The central idea of my campaign is creating opportunities for people to build better lives. I want an environment in which people can find meaningful work, build businesses, own assets, create wealth and provide for their families with dignity. Through the businesses my family and I have built, I have seen people develop skills, grow into leadership and support their families. I want our young people to see a future here, and those who have left to see a reason to return. Opportunity must be deliberately built, not simply promised.