ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — United Progressive Party candidate for Rural South Emanuel Peters has pledged to donate 100 percent of his parliamentary salary to support residents of St. John’s Rural South, outlining a wide-ranging plan to transform what he described as one of the country’s most impoverished constituencies if elected on April 30.
Addressing a United Progressive Party rally on Tuesday night, Peters said the commitment was personal and rooted in his lived experience in the constituency.
“I will pledge 100% of my parliamentary salary towards developing and helping the people of Rural South rise out of poverty,” he told supporters.
Peters, who said he was born and raised in the constituency, framed his campaign around service and long-term engagement rather than election-cycle promises.
“My commitment to Rural South has never depended on an election date,” he said, adding that he had already been assisting residents “quietly, without cameras, without clicks, without likes.”
He argued that electing him would allow those grassroots efforts to expand into broader, systemic change, declaring, “No more excuses… no more poor performance.”
A central pillar of Peters’ platform is the redevelopment of key community infrastructure, including a major overhaul of the North Grove Community Centre. He said the facility would be rebuilt into a modern hub featuring a clinic, pharmacy and a full police station.
“That community center… will be reconstructed… advanced and modernized,” Peters said, adding that healthcare services would be brought closer to residents.
He also proposed naming the police station after Delana Christopher, whom he described as the Caribbean’s first female police commissioner, as part of a broader effort to honor national trailblazers.
In addition, Peters said the upgraded facility would include commercial spaces to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, creating “real economic opportunity” within the constituency.
Peters outlined plans to expand economic and social support systems, including the introduction of a monthly community bus service for elderly and disabled residents, as well as sports teams.
“We will introduce a community bus that will take all our elders, our differently abled people, and also our sporting teams,” he said, noting that transportation challenges remain a barrier for many residents.
He also proposed activating a constituency-wide alert system to improve communication on criminal activity and promote local businesses.
The candidate placed strong emphasis on youth development and cultural renewal, promising upgrades to three neglected sporting facilities and the construction of new recreational and training spaces.
“Nothing will look dilapidated… we are progress,” Peters said as he criticized the current condition of community fields.
Plans for the Raider Range and Ottos Newtown areas include a new community centre, a playing field, a skills training facility, a gym, and business spaces, along with a “wall of fame” to recognize community figures.
Peters also committed to reviving the Ebonite Steel Orchestra, describing it as a “two-time panorama” champion that has been overlooked.
Throughout his address, Peters criticized what he called neglect and inequitable use of government resources, arguing that public funds should benefit all citizens rather than “a selected few.”
“Government resources… belong to everybody,” he said.
He positioned his candidacy as part of a broader UPP vision focused on equitable development, improved living standards, and restoring pride within communities.
Peters told supporters that the April 30 general election represents a turning point for the constituency.
“You aren’t just choosing a name. You are choosing your future,” he said.
He added that his goal is to transform St. John’s Rural South “from one of the most recognized impoverished constituencies into one that is proactive, progressive and striving.”
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