ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Former United Progressive Party candidate Franz DeFreitas has publicly endorsed Alex Brown for the St. Philip’s North constituency, describing him as “a son of the soil” and urging voters to back his former running mate.
DeFreitas, who campaigned alongside Brown during the 2023 General Election, said their partnership was grounded in shared values of service and community engagement. Speaking in a recent interview, he characterized Brown as deeply rooted in the constituency.
“Alex is not a stranger to this constituency,” DeFreitas said. “He is a son of the soil. He grew up here, he works here, he worships here.”
He added that Brown’s presence at community meetings, funerals, youth football matches and fundraising events reflects long-standing involvement rather than political strategy. “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,” he said.
DeFreitas described Brown as a grassroots organizer who listens and shows up consistently. “And when it’s time to take one for the team, he does it without hesitation,” he said.
Outlining Brown’s proposed agenda for St. Philip’s North, DeFreitas pointed to youth development initiatives that include skills training and certification in trades such as electrical installation, plumbing, carpentry and auto mechanics, as well as the creation of technology hubs and digital literacy centers. Sports and cultural programs, mentorship initiatives and youth entrepreneurship grants also form part of the platform.
“Too many of our young people feel left out of opportunity,” DeFreitas said. “Alex wants to make sure they are not just employed — but empowered.”
For seniors, Brown’s plans include establishing a community day-care and activity center, advocating for improved pension access and 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.”
Agriculture and fishing also feature prominently in the proposals. DeFreitas said Brown has consulted with farmers and fisherfolk on initiatives such as 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,” he said. “Alex wants to put money back into the hands of our producers.”
Brown’s platform also calls for infrastructure renewal projects prioritizing local contractors, skills upgrading workshops and collaboration with unions. Proposed projects include road rehabilitation, improved drainage, 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 said. “That’s how you build individual wealth and strengthen the community at the same time.”
DeFreitas concluded by urging voters to support Brown at the polls.
“I have seen Alex under pressure. I have seen him negotiate, organize, comfort families, and mobilize volunteers. He is steady. He is loyal. And he genuinely cares,” he said. “Give Alex Brown the opportunity to serve you in Parliament. Give him the chance to deliver the programs, the infrastructure, and the representation that this constituency deserves. He is ready. He is capable. And most importantly — he is one of you.”