The United Progressive Party claims that a growing number of residents in St John’s City South are opposed to the nomination of their parliamentary representative, Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, for knighthood.

In a press statement Friday, the UPP said a petition is currently being circulated by constituents, addressing the National Honours and Award Committee, outlining serious concerns about the decision to award Benjamin the highest national honour.

The petitioners allege that the MP has been involved in illicit activities, charged with criminal conduct, provided bad counsel to the government, and inadequately represented his constituents.

According to the UPP’s unsubstantiated claim, the residents are particularly outraged that the highest national honour is being considered in the midst of poor living conditions throughout the constituency.

The residents claim that their standard of living has declined, and the city of St. John’s has fallen into a state of disrepair during Benjamin’s 30-year tenure as the representative.

Onekha Elvin, the UPP Branch Chair for St. John’s City South stated that “Benjamin’s chronic and concerning track record over the past thirty years disqualifies him from receiving national recognition.

“By awarding Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, we are rewarding poor performance and strengthening a culture of entitlement. This sets a negative example for our constituents, particularly our youth and diminishes our national pride and the concept of national service,” Elvin said

The residents are being urged to sign the petition to make their opposition known to the National Honours and Awards Committee regarding the conferment of the title “Sir” on Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin.