ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – In a significant political endorsement, former United Progressive Party candidate Franz DeFreitas has thrown his support behind Alex Brown for the St. Philip’s North constituency, urging voters to back his former running mate in the upcoming election.
DeFreitas, who partnered with Brown during the 2023 General Election campaign, emphasized their shared commitment to community service and grassroots engagement. He characterized Brown as deeply connected to the constituency, noting his lifelong ties to the area. “Alex is not a stranger to this constituency,” DeFreitas stated. “He is a son of the soil. He grew up here, he works here, he worships here.”
The former candidate highlighted Brown’s authentic community involvement, explaining that his presence at local events reflects genuine dedication rather than political calculation. “When you see Alex at a community meeting, at a funeral, at a youth football match, or behind a stove cooking for a fundraiser—that’s not politics. That’s who he is,” DeFreitas remarked.
Brown’s proposed agenda for St. Philip’s North includes comprehensive youth development initiatives featuring skills training and certification programs in trades such as electrical installation, plumbing, carpentry, and auto mechanics. The platform also proposes creating technology hubs, digital literacy centers, sports programs, cultural activities, mentorship initiatives, and youth entrepreneurship grants.
“Too many of our young people feel left out of opportunity,” DeFreitas commented. “Alex wants to make sure they are not just employed—but empowered.”
For senior citizens, Brown’s plans include establishing a community day-care and activity center, advocating for improved pension access, conducting financial literacy workshops, and launching a volunteer-driven home maintenance assistance program. “Our seniors built this community,” DeFreitas said. “Alex believes we owe them comfort, security, and appreciation—not neglect.”
The agricultural and fishing sectors feature prominently in the proposals, with consultations already conducted with local farmers and fisherfolk. Initiatives include developing an agro-processing facility, establishing cold storage and docking facilities, providing micro-financing and equipment grants, and expanding farm-to-school and farm-to-hotel programs.
“We import too much of what we can grow and catch ourselves,” DeFreitas noted. “Alex wants to put money back into the hands of our producers.”
Infrastructure renewal forms another key component of Brown’s platform, prioritizing local contractors, skills upgrading workshops, and collaboration with unions. Proposed projects encompass road rehabilitation, improved drainage systems, a multi-purpose community complex, beautification and lighting projects, and support for affordable housing using local labor and materials.
“Every dollar spent on infrastructure should circulate within the constituency,” DeFreitas emphasized. “That’s how you build individual wealth and strengthen the community at the same time.”
Concluding his endorsement, DeFreitas urged voters to support Brown at the polls, citing his demonstrated capabilities under pressure. “I have seen Alex negotiate, organize, comfort families, and mobilize volunteers. He is steady. He is loyal. And he genuinely cares,” DeFreitas affirmed. “Give Alex Brown the opportunity to serve you in Parliament. He is ready. He is capable. And most importantly—he is one of you.”