The event, marked by music, passion, and fiery speeches, set the tone for what promises to be one of the island’s most closely watched electoral battles.
Dr. Harracksingh, a medical doctor and proud native of Micoud, delivered a rousing address outlining her vision for the constituency, one she says has suffered years of neglect under its incumbent MP, Opposition Leader and former Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.
“We have given him several chances. He was not seen in our constituency for many years,” Dr. Harracksingh declared to cheers. “This is Creole Heritage Month, it is time to turn the page. No more coulda, woulda, shoulda. No more excuses. It is time for change, my people of Micoud South.”
Pledging to be a hands-on representative, she assured residents that long-standing infrastructure issues were finally being addressed under the current administration. “The Honourable Philip J. Pierre has promised me that work will be started shortly on the Woulé Bois Road in Ti Tou Blanchard,” she announced.
“My farmers, the Mahaut Road, you will once again be able to move across these two areas freely because access will be provided very soon.”
Dr. Harracksingh also highlighted plans for an elderly care center, improved community facilities, and expanded support for farmers and youth. “I will push for an elderly care center where our older persons can meet and enjoy each other’s company,” she said. “We have started conversations about agro-processing and have given new energy to local agriculture. In the term ahead, I will push for structured programs, open up more regional markets, and establish factories right here to process what we grow.”
Turning her attention to youth empowerment, she pledged continued investment in training and employment. “To our young people, I love you. I see you. We have invested in training programs and have begun opening doors through internships and certification. But we are not finished. I will continue to create opportunities so that when you finish your training, you can step directly into meaningful jobs.”
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who addressed the massive crowd, praised Dr. Harracksingh’s commitment to public service while contrasting the SLP’s record with that of the opposition.
“All men and women who are putting themselves forward to serve you what is on the other side is not new,” he said. “They had five years to serve you. They did nothing in those five years. And since you voted them out, what they’re coming for is revenge.”
Pierre reaffirmed his government’s focus on job security and social empowerment, citing his administration’s recent decision to make hundreds of contract workers permanent.
“We speak to you truth and we speak facts to you,” the Prime Minister asserted. “And the same way we empowered the home care workers, we are going to empower nearly 2,000 contract workers in the civil service in a short time.”
The atmosphere in Micoud was electric, as supporters waved red flags and sang along to campaign songs celebrating the party’s message of “people-first leadership.”