By-election shapes DLP hopeful’s strategy for general poll

Aspiring Democratic Labour Party (DLP) candidate Dale Rowe has described the recent St James North by-election as an ideal training ground for the next general election, constitutionally due in 2027.

Rowe, recently selected to contest the upcoming national poll under the DLP banner in the City of Bridgetown constituency, told Barbados TODAY he fully embraced the opportunity to observe, participate, and plan ahead. He said the experience on the ground had provided invaluable insight into the mechanics of campaigning and helped him solidify his strategy well in advance.

“I’m actually grateful that the by-election happened right after we were announced. I’m here doing groundwork, so I know what I need to put in place and what I need to have to ensure we lead an effective campaign for the general elections,” Rowe said.

“I’m not the kind of person that waits for the last minute. I like to be fully prepared. So I plan according to what I’ve seen both parties do. I know the do’s and the don’ts and I know what I will do on that political platform when that time comes.”

Rowe, who was on the ground in St James North supporting DLP candidate Felicia Dujon, said the experience opened his eyes to the behind-the-scenes logistics involved in campaigning.

Although the date for the next general election is yet to be announced, he is already assembling a team, including polling agents, drivers, and area captains, and plans to bring on board a communications specialist to improve his social media reach, he said.

Rowe added: “I plan on implementing a good social media presence. So I will be bringing in a communication specialist to help with social media marketing. In addition to that, I already have some speakers in mind. So once the general election is called, we will already have those persons in place.”

According to the MP hopeful, “the DLP will be ready when the time comes.”

“I’m taking this as a learning experience. It’s honestly good exposure. I’m glad that I took the time off to be a part of the campaign trail. As a new candidate myself, I think all new candidates should have been on board regardless of which party you’re running for, whether Bee, Dee or Independent . . . it’s a very good experience. There’s a lot that goes on that I did not know, and I’m thankful that they had the by-election, so now I’m fully prepared and fully ready.”

Rowe was among an initial slate of 15 candidates the DLP is banking on to re-energise its electoral chances after years in opposition.

(SM)