By-election fever in Antigua as three candidates successfully nominated for Oct 24 vote

Three candidates have secured their spots on the ballot for the upcoming election in Antigua’s St. Mary’s South constituency.

The nomination process took place at Bolans Primary School yesterday and was a crucial step towards the highly anticipated election scheduled for October 24, 2023. Representing the United Progressive Party (UPP), Kelvin “Shugy” Simon was the first to formalize his candidacy at 9:30 a.m., accompanied by a group of enthusiastic supporters.

His nomination ceremony was broadcasted live, emphasizing the significance of this political moment. Simon emerged victorious in the January 18, 2023, general election but faced a legal dispute over his eligibility, leading to his resignation from the parliamentary representative position on June 7.

This triggered a by-election, which must be conducted within 120 days by law.

Andrew Antonio, the Democratic National Alliance’s candidate for St. Mary’s South, was the second to the table, with his official nomination at 11:30 a.m.

Dwayne George, representing the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), submitted his nomination papers at 4:30 p.m., supported by enthusiastic backers and family members. He succeeded Samantha Marshall, the incumbent, who was unseated by Simon in the previous general election.

Nigel Bascus, representing the Missing Link-Voice of the People (MLVOP) party, could not secure the necessary ten individuals residing in the constituency to accompany him for the nomination process.

Additionally, candidates were required to provide a $500 deposit, which is refundable only if they secure over 8 percent of the votes from the constituency.