Ashma McDougall selected as DLP candidate for Roseau North by-election following Miriam Blanchard’s resignation, with strong backing from party leadership.
Dominica: The Dominica Labour Party has announced that it has officially ratified businesswoman, economist and educator, Ashma McDougall, as its candidate for the upcoming Roseau North by-election. McDougall was nominated unopposed by the DLP’s Roseau North Constituency Association.
Following her nomination, Ashma McDougall has been unanimously endorsed by the Party’s National Executive Committee and Prime Minister and DLP political leader, Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, who stated that her candidacy reflects the DLP’s “continued commitment to attracting capable, energetic and forward-thinking individuals who are prepared to contribute to the country's development and improve the lives of its citizens.”
McDougall’s nomination comes after the seat for the Parliamentary Representative for Roseau North was left vacant as outgoing Member of Parliament, Miriam Blanchard, resigned on June 13, 2026, due to health reasons.
A daughter of the constituency, born in Bath Estate and living in Goodwill, educator Ashma will succeed Miriam. Ashma has years of experience on her back and has gained national and regional recognition for her service in several leadership roles including President of the National Youth Council of Dominica and Executive Director of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce.
Accepting the nomination, the businesswoman expressed her willingness to serve the residents of Roseau North, describing the moment as humbling and an honour.
In an official statement following her ratification, McDougall stated, "I am humbled and honoured by the vote of confidence reposed in me by the Dominica Labour Party, the Roseau North Constituency Association and the many constituents who have encouraged me to step forward at this important time,"
She went on to pledge, "I do not take this responsibility lightly. Roseau North is a constituency rich in talent, resilience and potential. I am committed to listening, learning and working alongside the people of the constituency to help create opportunities, strengthen communities and deliver meaningful results."
The DLP has confirmed that the by-election is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, with the Prime Minister announcing that the official details of the campaign will be disclosed over the weekend.
A meet and greet session has already been scheduled for Friday, June 19, at Goodwill Parish Hall, with the guest speakers being PM Roosevelt Skerrit, Minister of Health Cassanni Laville, Minister of Housing Melissa Poponne-Skerrit and President of the Roseau North Executive Association, Jenny Isaac.