No history to lean on, St. James put political strength to the test

One of the most closely watched area heading into the 2026 general election is St. James, a brand-new constituency that could show early hints about political sentiments in western New Providence.

The Free National Movement has sent Shanendon Cartwright as its standard bearer. A two-term MP for St. Barnabas, Cartwright brings experience into a constituency where no incumbent advantage exists.

On the other side, the Progressive Liberal Party is backing Owen Wells, a newcomer to frontline politics, a possible strategy to introduce a fresh face in the new area.

Meanwhile, the Coalition of Independents is entering the race with Latoya Bain, aiming to tap into voter frustration with the traditional two-party system but this is a sentiment that has yet to translate into parliamentary seats.

Formed as part of boundary changes aimed at addressing population growth and voter balance, St. James brings together 5,149 registered voters from a mix of established and growing communities. These include Adelaide, Coral Harbour, Renaissance, Dignity Gardens, Southwest Ridge, Jacaranda, Serenity, Mount Pleasant Village, and parts of South Ocean, areas previously split between Killarney and Golden Isles.

It has no election history and no entrenched voting pattern, but a mix of communities with various needs.

It increases the total number of constituencies from 39 to 41.