Deputy Political Leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP), Sherfield Bowen, has expressed disappointment with the outcome of the recent St. Peter by-election, describing it as a missed opportunity for the party despite concerted efforts on the campaign trail.
Speaking on Observer Radio, Bowen acknowledged the electorate’s decision but pointed to challenges faced during the short campaign period.
Bowen began by emphasizing respect for the voters’ decision, stating, “The voice of the people is the voice of God, and we respect the people’s choice.”
However, he noted the party had anticipated a different result, given the visible neglect in infrastructure and services within the constituency.
Having spent significant time in the constituency, Bowen highlighted the poor conditions in areas like Lightfoot West, where residents have invested in their homes but continue to face substandard government infrastructure. He pointed to low voter turnout—approximately 48%—as a contributing factor to the party’s defeat and remarked on the noticeable infrastructural improvements hastily carried out by the government ahead of the by-election.
“In Pares Village, I was surprised to see the number of concrete roads being built the night before the election. If I had been living there for 20 years and only saw improvements on election eve, I wouldn’t have supported it. But the people did,” he said.
Bowen commended UPP candidate Captain George Wehner for his dedication during the campaign, despite the limited 21-day timeframe that included the Christmas holiday. Bowen likened Wehner’s bold campaigning style to that of former representative Asot Michael, saying, “He was vigilant, committed, and dedicated.”
Bowen expressed confidence in Wehner’s future, advocating for him to remain the party’s caretaker for St. Peter. “Judging from the response of the constituency branch, there’s significant support for him, and I believe the UPP will stick with him,” Bowen added.
Bowen criticized the government’s strategy of announcing the by-election with limited notice, arguing that the short timeline was a deliberate move by Prime Minister Gaston Browne to disadvantage the opposition. He described the tactic as “strategic” and acknowledged its effectiveness.
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