PLM Names Juan Richard At-Large Candidate
The People's Leadership Movement has announced Juan Richard (Hatchett) as its first Territorial At-Large candidate for the upcoming General Election. Richard, an IT professional and former athlete, joins the party's growing slate under the leadership of Mark H. Vanterpool.
ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The People's Leadership Movement (PLM) has officially announced Juan Richard (Hatchett) as its first Territorial At-Large candidate for the upcoming General Election. The party, led by businessman and former government minister Mark H. Vanterpool, continues to build its slate ahead of the election, which is constitutionally due by mid-2027.
Richard is the second candidate introduced by the political organisation since its formation in May, following the earlier announcement of Clifton "Tito" Forbes for the Third District. Party leadership has stated its intention to field a full slate of both District and Territorial At-Large candidates, blending seasoned political experience with emerging leaders.
Introducing the candidate, Vanterpool described Richard as a dedicated young professional who brings real-world skills and a genuine commitment to empowering future generations. He noted that preparing tomorrow's leaders remains a core principle of the PLM. Richard stated that his entry into representative politics is driven by a desire to ensure young Virgin Islanders from all walks of life have a direct voice in the Territory's decision-making process.
His platform centres on three main pillars: building modern infrastructure for the next generation, creating specialised training and entrepreneurial opportunities, and securing avenues for youth civic participation. He also emphasised the vital role that investments in sports, the arts, and vocational training play in crime prevention, health improvement, and community development.
Richard noted that the Virgin Islands must support diverse talents so that young people do not have to leave home to achieve success. Richard holds deep roots in the Virgin Islands, tracing his ancestry to the Hatchett family of Jost Van Dyke. Raised in Road Town, he was educated locally through Elmore Stoutt High School before earning a degree from Virginia Union University in the United States.
A former collegiate and semi-professional basketball player, Richard worked for 11 years as an Information Technology technician with the BVI Social Security Board, bringing a background in technology, analysis, and community athletics to his political campaign.
Primary source: Guavaberry