I was stupid! That was how Independent candidate for The City of Bridgetown, Natalie Harewood, has described viral photographs of her posing with firearms.
In one of the six photos circulating, the former sex worker was seen holding a shotgun, while in another she held what appeared to be a revolver to her head.
The 36-year-old told the DAILY NATION yesterday she regretted posing with the firearms, saying the pictures were taken seven years ago in Martinique.
“I was stupid, young and didn’t have any sense,” she said.
“I know now that was wrong and stupid of me and the sense I have now, if I had it before, I would have never done that. I regret posting them, furthermore taking them. I would not lie or nothing; yes it is me, but I cannot change the past,” the first-time candidate added.
Attempts to reach police spokesman, Acting Inspector Rodney Inniss, to find out whether an investigation had been launched, were unsuccessful.
Harewood said she believed that whoever disseminated the pictures did so to frustrate her into backing out of the political race. However, she said she was even more motivated to represent the people.
“It doesn’t matter ’cause I have a mission to accomplish to win the constituency of Bridgetown; to be the person who stands tall, speaks and fights on behalf for my poor people – the poor people’s princess. I am still determined to represent The City of Bridgetown and nothing or no-one can change my mind because my past does not determine my future. I’m going all the way and that’s a promise,” she said.
She has been at the centre of many debates across the island since she became the first known prostitute to run for elective office.
Yesterday, Harewood announced she had quit the profession to fully pursue her “political ambition”.
Her campaign manager, Charles “Charlie Spice” Lewis, founder and president of the Adult Industry Association, said some well-wishers had provided funding to get Harewood off the streets. (SDB Media)