Senator Johnson Says Constituents Can Expect ‘Proper and Effective Representation’
Newly appointed government senator Kiz Larissa Kiana Johnson says residents of St. Philip’s South can “depend on [her] for proper and effective representation,” promising to reconnect with the community and begin delivering the results voters expect following her primary victory.
Speaking moments after being sworn in at Government House, Johnson said her return to the Upper House marks a continuation of the work she began as an independent senator, but now with added responsibility as the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s caretaker for the constituency. “It’s time to now go back and reconnect, and rebuild the community, and develop the relationships that are needed,” she said.
Johnson secured the ABLP nomination after defeating three male contenders in the St. Philip’s South primary on Thursday. She told reporters that the confidence shown by constituents throughout the five-week campaign strengthened her resolve. “The confidence of my constituents, their belief in me, and how they have rallied behind me has given me a lot of support,” she said when asked about the win.
She said that during her conversations with residents, several issues repeatedly surfaced, including concerns about a lack of infrastructure development and the need for stronger youth initiatives. Those priorities, she added, will guide her work both in the Senate and on the ground in the constituency.
Johnson also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Gaston Browne for her appointment to the government benches, calling him “a very astute leader” and “quite strategic.” She said being chosen carries a responsibility to match words with action. “Many are called, but few are chosen… It’s now time to deliver the results,” she said, adding that constituents are watching closely for progress.
As for her role in Parliament, Johnson pledged to maintain the same standard of preparation and debate that defined her earlier tenure as an independent senator. “The nation can expect the same level of high debate. They can expect well-researched conversations,” she said, noting that she avoids entering parliamentary debates “carelessly” and intends to back every position with evidence.
Johnson said she enjoyed her previous period in the Senate and is “excited to be there” again, describing the appointment as an opportunity she had hoped would come. “I absolutely enjoyed my time in the Senate… I saw the opportunity, so I’m excited to be there and to continue contributing to the national discourse,” she said.
Her appointment follows the reassignment of former senator Clement Antonio, who resigned to take up duties as Antigua and Barbuda’s resident ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, creating the vacancy filled on Friday.
