Michael Joseph, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party candidate for St. John's Rural West, has unveiled a sweeping campaign manifesto centred on a full expansion and reconstruction of drainage systems across the constituency. According to Antigua.news, Joseph has branded the initiative his "Renaissance" platform, with drainage improvements forming the cornerstone of his development vision.
The manifesto covers communities including Five Islands, Gray's Green, Greenbay and Perry Bay, and extends beyond drainage to encompass healthcare, youth development, infrastructure and entrepreneurship commitments.
Joseph, a licensed pharmacist, outlined plans to upgrade existing gutters and waterways, improve water flow and reduce flood risks in vulnerable areas during periods of heavy rainfall. The manifesto also calls for implementing sustainable, long-term infrastructure solutions designed to serve the constituency well into the future.
To fund the drainage works, Joseph intends to partner with agencies such as the Department of Environment to access Climate Adaptation funding. "These partnerships will allow for the proper planning, expansion, and construction of drainage systems to meet the growing needs of the community while preparing for the impacts of climate change," the manifesto states.
On roads, Joseph pledged to develop and upgrade road networks across the constituency, with a specific focus on constructing climate-resilient roads built to withstand heavy rainfall and shifting environmental conditions, while improving overall durability, safety and long-term reliability.
The ABLP candidate also committed to ensuring every community has access to running water and electricity, expanding infrastructure to underserved areas, and providing basic utilities regardless of whether lands are classified as public or private.
In the area of healthcare, Joseph pledged to reestablish community health services in Five Islands, launch health education programmes targeting schools, families and youth, and integrate wellness initiatives that address both physical and mental health within community programmes.
For youth development, the manifesto proposes expanding sports programmes across Rural West, upgrading recreational facilities with modern equipment, increasing organised leagues, training camps and mentorship opportunities, and improving lighting and security in community spaces to ensure safe access at all hours.
The manifesto further calls for the full transformation of the Grays Green Community Centre into a multi-purpose hub, offering skills training in entrepreneurship, technology and vocational development, alongside youth programmes, workshops and recreational activities.
