Three candidates in Antigua’s St. Mary’s South district have successfully fulfilled the nomination procedures, marking a significant step toward the next election.
Bolans Primary School served as the setting for this vital nomination procedure, which will take place on October 24, 2023, in the much-anticipated election.
The United Progressive Party (UPP)’s Kelvin “Shugy” Simon was the first to speak as the day got underway.
Around 9:30 am, Simon formally announced his candidacy while being accompanied by a devoted group of party members. Live coverage of his nomination speech highlighted how important this political event was.
Simon’s political journey in this constituency began when he secured a remarkable victory in January 18, 2023 general election, successfully unseating Samantha Marshall, the incumbent from the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).
However, his tenure was marked by a legal dispute over his eligibility, leading to his resignation from the parliamentary representative position on June 7. This, in turn, triggered a by-election, which, as per the law, must be conducted within 120 days.
Marshall has since been succeeded by Dwayne George on the ABLP ticket, who submitted his nomination papers at 4:30 pm, supported by enthusiastic backers and family members.
The Democratic National Alliance’s candidate for St. Mary’s South, Andrew Antonio was the second to the table, with his official nomination at 11:30 am.
However, Nigel Bascus, representing the Missing Link-Voice of the People (MLVOP) party—a relatively new entrant consisting of a sole individual—encountered a stumbling block.
Bascus was unable to muster the requisite 10 individuals residing in the constituency to accompany him for the nomination.
Additionally, candidates were required to provide a $500 deposit, refundable only if they secure over 8 per cent of the votes from the constituency.
