Defreitas Dismisses – By Deslyn A Joseph
Defreitas Dismisses Opponent Proposals
Franz DeFreitas, the United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for St. Paul, has responded with sharp criticisms against recent infrastructure promises made by his opponent, E. Paul Chet Greene, labeling them as a manipulative tactic used only when an election is near.
The response comes after Greene announced plans for a medical complex, including an eye clinic and a new fire station, noting that land has already been secured for these projects. DeFreitas, however, questioned why these initiatives are only surfacing now, after Greene has represented the constituency for over a decade.
“Chet Greene has been the representative for the St. Paul constituency for at least 12 years,” DeFreitas stated. “The idea that politicians can govern, not do anything, and then at election time, by osmosis and divine elucidation, come up with promises for the constituents of St. Paul is absolutely unacceptable.”
DeFreitas further characterized the proposals as campaign gimmickry and a backward, regressive philosophy aimed at manipulating voters rather than delivering genuine long-term progress.
In contrast to his opponent’s focus on physical structures, DeFreitas outlined a campaign platform centered on three pillars: Own, Grow, and Develop. He argued that the residents of St. Paul have historically been excluded from the socioeconomic spectrum and deserve the tools to build personal and financial independence.
DeFreitas emphasized the need for constituents to have access to land: – to own the land and their own businesses. He explained that his “Grow” strategy focuses on education and financial mobility, providing the necessary training to help residents move from entry-level positions into leadership roles and transition micro-businesses into medium-sized enterprises.
The final pillar of his plan, “Develop,” focuses heavily on the next generation. DeFreitas proposed a comprehensive suite of social programs ranging from early childhood education and childcare to sports and after-school initiatives. These programs are designed to equip youth with trades, skills, and academic foundations to ensure they become contributing citizens.
Closing his remarks, DeFreitas urged voters to look past election-season promises and evaluate the work ethic of their representatives. He called on the electorate to choose a “worker” and an advocate who remains active outside of the campaign cycle.
“Choose someone who is not lazy, somebody who will advocate for them so that they can have better outcomes, not just someone who creates programs and shows up at election time,” DeFreitas said. “St. Paul can be the best constituency in Antigua and can provide for all its residents if we work together.”
DeFreitas is reminding supporters to cast their ballots on April 30th, positioning himself as the candidate ready to move the constituency toward socioeconomic stability.
