Outgoing St. Mary's North Member of Parliament Sir Molwyn Joseph has thrown his full support behind Dr. Philmore Benjamin as his chosen successor, signalling a planned continuity of representation for the constituency as the veteran legislator prepares to retire from active politics. According to Antigua News Room, Joseph made his endorsement public during his final address to Parliament.
Joseph left no room for ambiguity in expressing his backing for Benjamin's candidacy. "I am in total support… Dr. Benjamin. Total support," he told the House.
The retiring MP also made clear that his departure would not translate into a disruption of service to constituents, indicating that he and Benjamin intend to work in tandem through the transition period. "He and I will work together to continue the tradition of high service," Joseph said.
Joseph also moved to address questions surrounding how Benjamin came to be selected, dismissing any suggestion that the process lacked legitimacy. "He was selected on the basis of a scientific poll," he stated.
The parliamentarian, who dedicated more than four decades to public life, used his final parliamentary contribution to reassure St. Mary's North residents that their representation would remain rooted in experience and community engagement.
His endorsement is widely expected to carry considerable influence within the constituency, where Joseph cultivated a strong and enduring political base across multiple election cycles.
While stepping down from Parliament, Joseph has indicated he will remain engaged in public life and continue to support both the constituency and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.
The endorsement firmly positions Benjamin as the political heir apparent in St. Mary's North ahead of the next general election, bolstered by the backing of one of the country's longest-serving MPs.
