St James North by-election voters seek change for youth and small business

Voters in St James North have their hopes pinned on better opportunities for young people, support for small businesses, and more responsive leadership coming out of Wednesday’s by-election.

Among those casting ballots in the opening hours of voting was a 75-year-old woman who said it was faith that moved her to vote.

“God told me to come,” Ari Bennett said. “I didn’t want to, but He told me to come. So I went, placed my X, and I feel happy about it. God is in charge, and He knows who is getting it.”

Businessman Andrew Bynoe of Mullins Road, a longtime voter in the constituency, said he came out as part of his civic duty but was motivated by a desire to see a more supportive environment for business.

“I’ve always voted since becoming eligible. I want to exercise the right I have to choose a representative,” Bynoe said. “I’m voting for the continued upliftment of this country from a social point of view. But also, I’m voting for a business climate that helps us progress.”

He encouraged younger voters to get involved. “To all first-time voters, please understand your responsibility as citizens. Come out and vote for whoever you want to vote for.”

Another voter, Carol Brewster, said she was voting with the future of her grandchildren in mind.

“I vote for all young people, because all of my grandchildren are young people. I want a better life for them, so I vote for a better country,” she said.
“A better country means good schools, a good education, less crime and violence, and bringing back values like going to church and having churches in schools.”

As of mid-morning, the voting process had been smooth, with the majority of the stations opening on time and lines moving steadily.

The by-election features four candidates—Chad Blackman of the Barbados Labour Party, Felicia Dujon of the Democratic Labour Party, and independents Steffani Williams and Alex Mitchell.

Over 8 500 registered electors are eligible to vote across seven polling stations.

Polls will close at 6 p.m. (SM)