By Kisean Joseph
In a spirited and contentious interview on ABS’ “First Look” morning program, yesterday, United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate George Wehner defended his record and campaign promises while repeatedly clashing with host Garfield Burford over questions about his past and current political campaign pledges.
The interview, coming just five days ahead of the January 14 St Peter by-election, saw Wehner frequently pushing back against the host’s line of questioning, and frequently repeating tagline: “I am George Wehner”, while emphasizing his reputation for robust advocacy.
When pressed about specific plans he would execute if elected, Wehner held his line and reiterated his theme of advocacy, leading to more tense exchanges with Burford, who persistently sought commitment beyond promises of representation.
“Don’t underestimate my advocacy,” Wehner said, pointing to recent road repairs in the constituency which he attributed to several videos he had published in order to highlight infrastructural problems.
The tone of the conversation grew even more heated when the host introduced criticism from Wehner’s former UPP colleague Joanne Massiah. Wehner repeatedly deflected these questions, at one point declaring, “I am not a woman. I am Wehner. Very much a man,” even countering with a comment that the host “had a fetish” for referencing Massiah’s comments.
When challenged about a controversial campaign video from 2018 that featured political opponents in rifle crosshairs, Wehner was unapologetic and more than once, he ascribed it to “political satire” despite Burford’s persistence that the content was inappropriate.
“We are on a political battlefield,” Wehner said, comparing his situation to Nelson Mandela’s struggle against apartheid. The candidate also faced questions about his security company’s contract with the Antigua Port Authority which was awarded during his party’s previous administration.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne had alleged that Wehner benefited from a multi-million-dollar contract while other security workers lost their jobs. Wehner defended the contract, citing post-9/11 security requirements and his company’s qualifications. He also reminded the audience that the job was put out to tender and following his bid, his security firm was duly awarded the contract.
As the interview unfolded, Wehner highlighted several key issues in the constituency, including the current industrial action at Pares Secondary School, where he noted the sit-in being staged by 41 faculty members due to years of deteriorating conditions and a bat infestation. He also raised concerns about very limited water access in Vernons and the closure of the community Health Clinic in Pares Village.
Wehner, while maintaining his focus on advocacy and representation, used the opportunity to invite constituents and listeners to attend last evening’s rally in Paynters to get details about his plans.
The interview underscored the high stakes of the upcoming by-election, which, while not affecting the overall control of the government, could either provide the ruling Antigua Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) with a more comfortable parliamentary margin, or boost the opposition UPP’s numbers following the recent defection.
The St Peter by-election, triggered by last year’s tragic death of former MP Asot Michael on November 5, will see Wehner face off against the ABLP’s Rawdon Turner on January 14.
