The People's Leadership Movement has selected Juan Richard, also known as Hatchett, to run as its first Territorial At-Large candidate in the upcoming general election.
Richard, who grew up in Road Town, joins Clifton "Tito" Forbes as an official PLM slate member. Forbes was introduced in September as the party's Third District candidate. The PLM announced Richard's candidacy on October 5.
A graduate of Virginia Union University with a degree in Mathematics and Technology, Richard earned his qualification cum laude in 2012. He worked for 11 years as an IT technician at the BVI Social Security Board and competed in collegiate and semi-professional basketball.
Richard's campaign platform centres on youth representation, better infrastructure and job creation for young Virgin Islanders. He is pushing for investment in recreational facilities, sports academies, digital connectivity, vocational training and entrepreneurial support.
"For me, this is about the community that helped raise me," Richard said. "I intend to use that seat for every Virgin Islander, especially our young people."
Richard contends that supporting sport, the arts and vocational training could reduce crime, boost health outcomes and strengthen communities while opening doors for young people across different skill levels and backgrounds.
The PLM, founded in May 2026 by businessman and former government minister Mark H. Vanterpool, has signalled its intention to run candidates across all districts and At-Large seats. Vanterpool himself plans to contest the Fourth District. Kevon Lettsome chairs the party's District Seven Committee and is being considered as a prospective candidate, though no formal announcement has been made.
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