Dominica Labour Party (DLP) candidate for the Roseau North by-election, Ashma McDougall, has been formally introduced to constituents, using the occasion to pledge accessible, accountable and community-centred representation.
McDougall was presented to supporters during a ceremony at the Goodwill Parish Hall over the weekend, where senior party officials and supporters gathered to officially launch her campaign in the constituency. The event marked the beginning of what is expected to be an active campaign ahead of the anticipated by-election.
Addressing constituents, McDougall said she intends to maintain a strong presence throughout the constituency and remain closely connected to residents long after the election period has ended.
“I have no desire to be a representative who is only seen during the election season or heard only through speeches,” she stated. “I want to remain present in your communities, at your events, in your moments of celebration and your moments of challenge.”
McDougall, an economist, entrepreneur, educator and former president of the National Youth Council of Dominica, said she brings both the energy and commitment necessary to serve the people of Roseau North effectively. She emphasized that many of the challenges confronting the constituency are longstanding and will require sustained effort, collaboration and practical solutions rather than political rhetoric.
Parliamentary Representative for Roseau Central, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, endorsed McDougall’s candidacy, describing her as a representative of a new generation of Labour Party leadership.
Poponne-Skerrit highlighted McDougall’s experience as a former Executive Director of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC), her background in youth development and her involvement in community initiatives, arguing that she possesses the qualifications and experience required to serve the constituency effectively.
Deputy Leader of the Dominica Labour Party, Dr. Irving McIntyre, also welcomed McDougall’s emergence, stating that her candidacy demonstrates the party’s ability to renew itself and develop new leaders.
According to McIntyre, the unexpected vacancy in Roseau North has created an opportunity for another generation of Labour Party leadership to emerge and contribute to national development.
McDougall’s introduction comes following the resignation of former Parliamentary Representative Miriam Blanchard on health grounds. With the by-election constitutionally due in the coming months unless Parliament is dissolved beforehand, political activity in Roseau North is expected to intensify as parties continue their campaign efforts.
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