The opposition New Democratic Party's candidate for West St. George, Kaschaka Cupid, speaking at a recent campaign event.
The opposition New Democratic Party's (NDP) candidate for West St. George, Kaschaka Cupid, has unveiled a seven-point plan for the constituency, saying it has been "overlooked, underserved, and undervalued" under 27 years of Unity Labour Party representation.
"What makes this seven-point plan powerful is its interconnected nature. Better roads, support agricultural development and tourism growth," Cupid told an NDP campaign event in Daphine.
"Educational improvements create a workforce ready for entrepreneurial opportunities. Housing development creates construction jobs while improving quality of life. Healthcare improvements keep our workforce healthy and productive," he said.
"This isn't piecemeal development -- it's comprehensive transformation that addresses every aspect of community life."
Cupid outlined public infrastructural development projects undertaken under the NDP between 1984 and 1998.
"My people of West St George, this evening marks a pivotal moment in our constituency's history. For 27 years, West St George has been overlooked, underserved, and undervalued. But hear this: change is coming and it comes with a name you can trust: Kaschaka Cupid, because Cupid cares."
Cupid, who is the deputy comptroller of Inland Revenue, is making his first bid to wrest the seat from the ULP, which has been representing the constituency since 1998.
General elections are widely expected by November, ahead of the February 2026 constitutional deadline.
Cupid is the sixth candidate the NDP is offering in the district since 2001, when the party was voted out of office.
"When I say 'Cupid Cares for West St George', I mean it from the depths of my heart to the core of my comprehensive action plan," he said.
He said he was presenting "not just promises, but a blueprint for transformation -- a seven-point plan that will elevate every aspect of life in our beloved constituency".
Point 1 of the plan speaks to upgrading roads and public transport infrastructure.
"My people of West St George, the foundation of progress starts with better roads," Cupid said.
He said constituents navigate pothole-riddled roads that damage their vehicles and delay their commutes every morning.
"Right in front of us here in Dauphine, look at the road leading to Fenton, Welcome, Gomea, Gorgie Gutter, Dallaway, the road to the Spa, not to mention the corner by Jimmy Forde," Cupid said.
"Ohh lord, ah tired calling names. The roads in the entire constituency are in a mess. But don't worry, help is here in the form of your humble servant, because Cupid cares.
The candidate said his plans include the complete reconstruction of major roads connecting the communities to the capital.
Point 2 of the plan is revitalise agriculture, Cupid said, adding that the fertile lands in West St. George have fed generations, but agricultural potential remains largely untapped.
"While others have abandoned our farmers, the New Democratic Party sees agriculture as the key to our economic renaissance. Under my leadership, we will bring agriculture back to life."
He said the NDP agricultural revitalisation plan includes modern irrigation systems to ensure year-round productivity and support for organic farming and speciality crop development
Cupid said an NDP government would also create youth agricultural programmes to attract the next generation to farming
"Agriculture isn't just about food -- it's about economic independence, environmental sustainability, and preserving our cultural heritage," he said, adding that the glory days of agriculture are not a thing of the past.
Cupid said he will also develop community and eco-tourism opportunities, showcasing the natural beauty of the constituency.
He said West St George has breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming people.
The tourism strategy includes developing hiking trails and nature reserves showcasing the area's biodiversity.
"We will support community-based organisations to establish eco-tours, hiking trails in Aiery Hill, camping experiences, develop pathways to our waterfalls in Fenton and trail development. We also have our natural spa water, which can be exported," Cupid said.
He said he would promote cultural festivals and events and training programmes for tour guides and hospitality workers.
Point 4 of Cupid's plans focuses on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, investing in innovation and enterprise.
"Our young people are our greatest resource. Yet, too many feel compelled to seek opportunities elsewhere. Simultaneously, potential entrepreneurs lack the support to transform ideas into successful businesses," he said.
The candidate said youth and entrepreneurship empowerment includes small business incubation centres providing mentorship and resources and micro-finance programmes offering start-up capital to local entrepreneurs
Under point 5, Cupid said he would upgrade community sporting facilities and support creative arts.
"A thriving community needs spaces for recreation, artistic expression, and cultural development. Sports and arts aren't luxuries -- they're necessities for healthy, vibrant communities," said Cupid, a former national cricketer.
He said the cultural and recreational development plan for West St. George includes renovating and expanding sporting facilities, including football fields, basketball courts, and cricket grounds.
Cupid promised a community arts centre with spaces for music, drama, and visual arts, and after-school and weekend programmes for children and youth.
Point 6 speaks to improving healthcare and quality education under the rubric "Building Human Capital Through Health and Learning".
"No community can prosper without healthy, educated citizens. Yet West St George residents often struggle to access quality healthcare and educational opportunities," he said.
Cupid said the Belair Clinic was relocated for renovations about five months ago to the Dauphine Community Centre.
"Friends, let us be honest, the Bealir Clinic will not be removed under this current administration. Renovation is clearly outside their area of competence."
He said an NDP administration would upgrade the Belair clinic to a polyclinic and ensure it is outfitted with the human resources, modern equipment and supplies to support the health and well-being of constituents.
Meanwhile, educational enhancements encompass infrastructure improvements to school buildings and facilities and integrating technology, including computer labs and internet access.
The final point of Cupid's plan relates to affordable and resilient housing
"Every family deserves safe, affordable housing that can withstand our Caribbean climate while fostering strong communities," he said.
"Housing is more than shelter -- it's the foundation of family stability and community pride."
He said his proposals for housing include affordable housing projects using local materials and labour and home improvement grants for existing residences.
He said he had visited Pole Yard, a community of squatters in Arnos Vale, a few weeks earlier.
"The government has used these residents as political pawns, making grand promises of relocation and modern housing that have yet to materialise," Cupid said.
The government has said that it is committed to relocating residents of the community, which borders the site where the US$80 million acute referral hospital is being built at the decommissioned airport in Arnos Vale.
"My people, these seven points aren't just campaign promises. They represent a comprehensive vision rooted in deep understanding of our community's needs," he said.
Cupid said he comes with proven experience in community development, a track record of turning plans into results, deep roots in West St George and a genuine commitment to our progress, and the energy and vision needed to transform potential into prosperity.