By Kisean Joseph
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Attorney-at-law and political hopeful Wayne Benjamin Marsh is advocating for what he terms “hygiene in politics” in Antigua and Barbuda.
Marsh terms this as a fresh approach to political leadership that emphasizes maturity, integrity, and genuine public service.
In a recent interview, Marsh, who has practiced law in the United States for approximately 10 years and who has been called to the bar in Antigua and Barbuda and also Dominica, outlined his vision for political reform.
“Hygiene in politics is the philosophy that when you enter public service, whether as a Member of Parliament or otherwise, you must recognize that there’s a certain level of maturity expected of you.
“You must recognize that you are serving the public and not yourself,” Marsh said.
Marsh, who has been involved in local politics since 1999, expressed concern about the current state of political discourse within his home constituency. He referenced a recent incident where questioning the provision of healthcare services at the Liberta Clinic led to what he described as unprofessional responses from the current leadership.
“When you ask difficult questions, persons are offended. And unless you are sufficiently mature to handle those questions, you respond in ways that are less than becoming,” Marsh said, emphasizing that public officials should welcome scrutiny rather than resort to personal attacks.
His concept of political hygiene extends beyond civil discourse to encompass a broader vision of selfless leadership.
He has also criticized what he sees as an autocratic approach to constituency management.
“The idea of public service is one where you’re committed to the people. When you travel and you meet opportunities, those opportunities belong to the people.
“Persons are concerned that the method and style of politics in Antigua and Barbuda is one where the minister has to be in charge and has to be the alpha and omega of everything,” Marsh added.
Drawing on his experience with local sports clubs and community organizations, Marsh emphasized that true representation means supporting community initiatives regardless of political affiliations.
“When you get elected, you did not get elected to be the MP for Labour Party people. You get elected to be the MP for the constituency,” he said.
Marsh, who said that he has rebuffed financial offers throughout his political career, took a strong stance against political corruption. “The greatest insult to a human being is to look at that human being and ask them what is their price,” he said, adding, “I cannot be bought by no man, woman, or child.”
Marsh anticipates that his call for political hygiene will resonate across all lines.
