In a significant political development, newly inaugurated government senator Kiz Larissa Kiana Johnson has committed to delivering ‘proper and effective representation’ for the residents of St. Philip’s South. The pledge came immediately following her formal swearing-in ceremony at Government House, where she outlined her dual role as both senator and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s constituency caretaker.
Johnson’s appointment follows her decisive victory in Thursday’s primary election, where she outperformed three male contenders to secure the ABLP nomination. She characterized her return to the Upper House as an evolution of her previous work as an independent senator, now enhanced by greater official responsibilities. ‘This represents a natural progression of my service, but with expanded capacity to effect meaningful change,’ Johnson stated.
During extensive community engagement throughout the five-week campaign, Johnson identified critical constituency needs including infrastructure development deficiencies and insufficient youth programming. These emerging priorities will inform her legislative agenda and ground-level initiatives simultaneously. ‘The consistent feedback from residents has directly shaped my action plan for both parliamentary contributions and community development,’ she explained.
Johnson expressed particular appreciation for Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s strategic leadership in facilitating her appointment, describing the opportunity as both an honor and solemn responsibility. Referencing biblical wisdom, she noted: ‘Many are called, but few are chosen. This selection demands tangible results and accountable governance that constituents rightfully expect.’
Regarding her parliamentary approach, Johnson promised to maintain the rigorous standards that characterized her earlier senatorial tenure. She emphasized evidence-based deliberation and thoroughly researched positions in legislative debates. ‘The public can anticipate substantive, well-prepared contributions to national discourse, not careless rhetoric,’ she affirmed.
The senate vacancy emerged following former senator Clement Antonio’s resignation to assume diplomatic responsibilities as Antigua and Barbuda’s resident ambassador to China. Johnson’s appointment effectively completes this political transition while introducing a renewed focus on constituency service and developmental politics.