As Barbados approaches its February 11 general election, residents of St James North express broad acceptance of the early election call while using the campaign to advocate for community-specific improvements. Constituency interviews reveal a complex landscape where political support coexists with practical demands for enhanced infrastructure and social programs.
Multiple voters acknowledged Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s prerogative in scheduling the early poll, with Marcia Jordan-Shepherd of Douglin Road noting, ‘She is the prime minister and she did what she had to do.’ This sentiment was echoed by Anderson Worrell of The Whim, who suggested the early election reflected Mottley’s political confidence despite initial surprise among some voters.
The constituency’s current representative, Barbados Labour Party’s Chad Blackman, received significant praise for his accessible leadership style and tangible accomplishments. Jordan-Shepherd credited Blackman with road repairs and housing improvements, stating, ‘Since Mr. Blackman get in here, he done a lot.’ Elderly voter Grethal Smith of Rock Dundo highlighted Blackman’s responsiveness: ‘I can call Mr. Blackman anytime. He’s gonna turn up.’
However, residents articulated specific concerns requiring attention. Safety measures dominated requests, with Jordan-Shepherd advocating for road humps and better lighting near a children’s park. Worrell, managing a local cricket club, emphasized the need for dedicated sports facilities to prevent youth from playing road tennis in dangerous areas.
Infrastructure deficiencies emerged as another priority, with several residents noting that while some road patching had occurred, comprehensive repaving remained necessary. George Thornhill of Baird’s Road raised persistent flooding issues, noting his basement had been ‘washed out again’ during recent storms.
Social programs for different demographics featured prominently in voter requests. Elderly residents sought increased opportunities for socialization and activities, while younger constituents desired structured programs like evening classes in practical skills such as hair braiding and weaving.
Candidate Blackman framed his campaign within broader developmental objectives, stating, ‘This campaign is not just about the re-election of the party, but saying to the country, how do we now move forward in our development.’ He characterized constituency leadership as being ‘the chief servant’ while expressing confidence without complacency.
The constituency has maintained strong BLP affiliations for most of the past four decades, with Blackman continuing the party’s dominance following his 2025 by-election victory. He faces challenges from Democratic Labour Party’s Charles Worrell and Steffanie Williams of Friends of Democracy in the upcoming election.