United Progressive Party (UPP) leader Joshua Francis has announced that he will contest the Salybia Constituency at the next general election, describing the decision as a return to where his political journey first began.
The announcement marks a significant shift for Francis, who previously represented the Roseau South constituency in Parliament. Speaking during a media briefing, he said the move reflects both a personal commitment to his heritage and a renewed determination to advocate for the people of the Kalinago Territory.
“I have announced to the world that I am back to my roots. I am back to the Kalinago Territory,” Francis declared. “As it was in the beginning, so shall it be in the end. I started in the Kalinago Territory. It’s only fair that I ride the latter part of my political days in my roots.“
Francis expressed confidence that the constituency is prepared for political change and said his campaign will focus on creating opportunities that strengthen the social, cultural and economic position of the Kalinago people.
Among the proposals he outlined is the establishment of a dedicated Kalinago House in Roseau. According to Francis, the facility would provide a permanent location where artisans could display and sell traditional crafts while also serving as a centre for administrative and cultural activities connected to the Kalinago community.
“We need a house in Roseau called the Kalinago House, where Kalinagos can come and exhibit their crafts and do their administrative business,” he said. “We need a piece of Roseau.“
Francis said his vision extends to every community within the constituency, including Salybia, Bataka, Crayfish River, Sineku, Concord, Atkinson and Touna Aute. He pledged to work closely with residents to address longstanding concerns while promoting economic development, cultural preservation and greater national recognition of the Kalinago people’s contribution to Dominica.
He argued that the constituency deserves stronger representation and leadership focused on improving the quality of life for residents rather than maintaining the status quo.
Francis’s decision to seek election in the Kalinago Territory adds a high-profile contest to a constituency that has traditionally attracted significant national attention.
With his campaign now formally launched, Francis said he intends to spend the coming months engaging directly with residents and presenting what he described as a practical vision for the future of the Kalinago Territory, centred on opportunity, dignity and community-led development.
This article is copyright © 2026 DOM767
