Former independent senator Kiz Johnson has emerged as the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s candidate for St. Phillip’s South, securing a decisive win in Thursday’s primary.

Johnson captured 167 votes, outpacing her nearest rival, Malcom Charles, who received 112. Adrian Richardson placed third with 49 votes, while former constituency MP Lennox Weston finished fourth with 44.

The primary, held at the Freetown Primary School, drew strong turnout from party supporters. Johnson’s victory sparked celebrations among her campaign team, many of whom believe she is well-positioned to reclaim the seat from the opposition United Progressive Party in the next general election.

Her selection marks Johnson’s first formal step into frontline politics, coming just days after she resigned as an independent senator to contest the primary.

Weston, who lost the seat to the UPP’s Sherfield Bowen in the 2023 general election, had hoped to stage a political comeback but was unable to regain momentum within the constituency.

The next general election is constitutionally due by 2028, giving Johnson time to consolidate support as the newly minted ABLP caretaker for St. Phillip’s South.