Blackman pledges commitment beyond Wednesday poll

Chad Blackman, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) candidate for St James North, has vowed that his dedication to the constituency will continue regardless of the outcome of Wednesday’s by-election, promising that true representation means more than just campaign appearances.

“St James North for me isn’t just a short-term thing,” Blackman told Barbados TODAY. “I’ve been on the ground for the last year. I’m not a candidate who came to the constituency three weeks ago. I’ve approached this constituency with a love of humility and respect.”

He insisted that his work in the area began well before the by-election campaign, and would continue regardless of the result.

“There are a lot of things that I’ve been able to do quietly, without the public even knowing. That will continue long after May 21,” he said.

“You will never see me putting a camera in front of someone in their most vulnerable moment. Representation is not about exposure—it’s about real service.”

Blackman said that the feedback he has received in the final stretch of the campaign has been energising, describing his efforts as having evolved into more than just canvassing.

“What started as a campaign has now morphed into a movement. People are coming to the campaign house daily saying they want to join-not just young people, but older residents too,” he said.

Asked about criticisms that his predecessor, former MP Edmund Hinkson, failed to deliver on promises, Blackman was diplomatic.

“People are saying: ‘Chad, given your background, given your commitment to development, you’re the one to take us forward’,” he said.

“Mr Hinkson has done tremendous work for the constituency. Are there things that still need to be done? Of course. But the feeling on the ground is that now is the time to take things to the next level.”

Blackman also said that some of his post-election plans are already in motion, including the development of ‘The PLUG’, a network designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners move their ideas from concept to reality.

“St James North has a high level of talent and skill sets, and we must now unlock them in a way we haven’t done before,” he said, noting that the campaign is about connecting the dots and creating opportunities.

He added that the newly launched St James North Tech Hub is part of a broader vision to position the constituency as a national centre for innovation.

“The real work begins on May 22,” Blackman said.

“But we’re already laying the foundation to deliver—not just talk.” (SM)