Aspiring MP blocks out noise about her physique

Nekeisha Burchell says the body she carries into the political arena is natural and given to her by God, but that hasn't stopped critics from trying to use it against her.

The People's National Party (PNP) candidate for South St James told THE WEEKEND STAR that one of the first attacks she faced publicly was about her figure.

"I was surprised that in 2024, men still think it's okay to do that. It's not just about me, it's the message it sends to young women who have ambitions - that their brains and talents are not what matter, only their body parts. That really hurt, not so much for me, but for them," she said. Those remarks sparked conversations about the treatment of women in politics and the struggles they face to be taken seriously. Still, Burchell made it clear that her confidence isn't shaken. She said she will never apologise for her body or allow anyone to weaponise it against her.

"God give mi dis body, and mi going to use it fi walk through Gordon House door," she declared. Burchell said she understands why some women choose to surgically alter their appearance, but she is careful to stress that such decisions should never be judged.

"For me, I believe you are in charge of your own self. It's your choice for whatever you want to do with your body, your mind, your sensibilities. What God has given you, it's up to you. I never judge anybody for that."

But while she believes in personal freedom, Burchell is equally firm that women shouldn't have to fight for respect because of how they look.

"We are Jamaican women. We come in all shapes, sizes and flavours. Some of us spicy, some not so spicy, but that's what makes us special. No man must ever try set limits for us based on looks," she said. Burchell said one of her driving motivations is to change the political culture so that young women can feel encouraged, not intimidated, about stepping into leadership.

"Don't make nobody scare you. If you want to do something for your community, go for it. You are champions already," she urged. "When I leave the scene, I want the other Nekeishas growing up in [parts of South St James such as] Garland, Cambridge, Mocho and Catadupa to believe they can do absolutely anything they want to do."

Burchell said she feels the weight of being the first female candidate for the constituency, but it is a responsibility she embraces.

"South St James has embraced me as a daughter of the soil, and I must be a good example for the younger ones. If I don't fight now, they may never believe it's possible," she said.

"I feel blessed to be in a space where I don't have to change myself to be accepted. I can just be me. The PNP gave Jamaica its first female prime minister, and that history gives me courage to keep pushing."

Burchell said she wants to shift the way Jamaicans look at women in public life.

"No woman should have to wonder if her hairstyle, her weight, or her body is going to be turned into a distraction when she is offering service," she said. "Respect us for our ideas, our work, and our vision. The rest is noise."