Michael Joseph, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) candidate for St John’s Rural West, has pledged a full expansion and proper construction of drainage systems across the constituency as the centrepiece of his “Renaissance” campaign manifesto.

The manifesto, which also outlines commitments in healthcare, youth development, infrastructure and entrepreneurship, sets drainage improvements as the foundation of Joseph’s development vision for communities including Five Islands, Gray’s Green, Greenbay and Perry Bay.

Joseph, a licensed pharmacist, outlined plans to upgrade existing gutters and waterways to improve water flow, reduce flood risks in vulnerable areas during heavy rainfall, and implement sustainable long-term infrastructure solutions.

According to his manifesto, he intends to work closely with agencies such as the Department of Environment to access Climate Adaptation funding to support the drainage works.

“These partnerships will allow for the proper planning, expansion, and construction of drainage systems to meet the growing needs of the community while preparing for the impacts of climate change,” the manifesto states.

Beyond drainage, Joseph’s infrastructure platform extends to road networks, with commitments to develop and upgrade roads across the constituency, construct climate-resilient roads built to withstand heavy rainfall and changing environmental conditions, and improve the durability, safety and long-term reliability of infrastructure.

The ABLP candidate also pledged to ensure every community has access to running water and electricity, expand infrastructure to underserved areas, and provide access to basic utilities regardless of whether lands are public or private.

On healthcare, Joseph committed to reestablishing community healthcare services in Five Islands, launching health education programmes for schools, families and youth, and integrating wellness initiatives into community programmes that connect physical and mental health.

On youth development, Joseph pledged to expand youth sports programmes across Rural West, upgrade and maintain recreational facilities with modern equipment, increase organized leagues, training camps and mentorship opportunities, and improve lighting and security in community spaces to ensure safe access day and night.

The manifesto further proposed the full transformation of the Grays Green Community Centre into a multi-purpose hub offering skills training in entrepreneurship, technology and vocational development, alongside youth programmes, workshops and recreational activities.