Newly appointed Government Senator and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) caretaker for St. Philip’s South, Kiz Johnson, has outlined an ambitious plan focused on education, youth development, women’s empowerment and community infrastructure.

Johnson was officially sworn in on Friday afternoon during a ceremony at Government House—just hours after winning the party’s primary to become the ABLP’s candidate for the next general election.

Reflecting on her return to the Upper House, Johnson said she intends to bring the same standard of debate she was known for during her previous two-year tenure as an Independent Senator.

“I am thrilled to be back in the Senate,” she said. “Now that I am back, and sitting on the government’s side, the people of Antigua and Barbuda can expect the same level of discourse that I presented during my tenure as the Independent Candidate. My presentations will be well-researched as I join my team of government senators in contributing to a high level of debate in the Upper House.”

Education and Youth Development Central to Agenda
Johnson said her priorities for St. Philip’s South align with the government’s 2026 People-Centred Budget, particularly its emphasis on improving educational access and outcomes.

“I certainly support the prime minister’s push for education, including a waiver of fees for CXC starting from the next academic year and tuition-free tertiary studies for some students,” she noted.

She added that developing youth potential will be a key pillar of her constituency work, with plans to support local sporting clubs and champion upgrades to facilities in communities such as Freetown, Bethesda, and St. Philip’s.

Empowering Women and Strengthening Community Spirit
As a young woman entering elective politics, Johnson said she feels a responsibility to lead by example and create pathways for other women.

“My plans include pursuing opportunities to empower women not only in the St. Philip South constituency, but throughout Antigua and Barbuda,” she said.

She also emphasized the importance of rebuilding community cohesion, pointing to the close-knit culture she grew up with in Freetown.

“It is my desire to see a return or strengthening of that spirit of camaraderie among the people of Freetown, St. Philip’s, Bethesda, Lion Hill and surrounding areas,” she added.

Party Unity Following Primary Victory
Johnson confirmed that two of her opponents in Thursday’s primary have already pledged their support, a move she described as essential to unifying the constituency ahead of the next election.

With her swearing-in complete and her candidacy confirmed, Senator Johnson now turns her focus to groundwork in St. Philip’s South—where education, youth upliftment and community empowerment will shape her campaign and Senate contributions in the months ahead.