Castries South East Parliamentary Representative Joachim Henry has addressed rumours that Senator Lisa Jawahir, vice president of ParlAmericas Caribbean’s Gender Equality Network, may replace him as the Labour Party’s candidate in the upcoming general election.
While neither confirming nor denying the speculation, Henry emphasised that he has yet to finalise his political future.
“I’m not aware of that… I have not come to a conclusion on what I would do,” he said during a press briefing on Monday when questioned directly about the reports.
Reflecting on his personal milestones, he added, “I will be 60 years [old] in August of this year, and I thank God for that amount of time He has blessed me with.”
Henry stressed that any decision would be made in consultation with his loved ones. “Whatever my family, my wife, and my daughters decide and guide me on… I tend to make up my own mind, but as I stand before you today, my intention is to continue the path that I’m on and do the best that I can with the opportunities presented to me.”
Amid ongoing political discussions, he reiterated the need to prioritise constituents’ pressing concerns.
“I would prefer to stick to what is important as we prepare as a Labour Party for the next election, and why it is important that we protect the gains we have made on behalf of the population, poor people, and persons struggling.”
Citing recent social support initiatives, Henry highlighted the government’s strategic efforts to combat food insecurity under Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre’s leadership. “Since Mr Pierre led this government, we have increased grants and contributions for persons involved in providing food. And the attempt is strategic, deliberate.”
He detailed expanded support in his constituency, noting, “This year…we have increased grants and contributions to the extent that Feed The Poor Ministries gets additional… the Bexon Catholic Church has received $10 000 in addition. The L’abayee and Sarrot SDA Church also received $10 000 to increase their food programme in the constituency of Castries South East.”
Henry also underscored broader government assistance for vulnerable families, including periodic investments in food vouchers.
“The government has also maintained subsidies on basic foods, and it is universal,” he added.
