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2026 Antiguan general election

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2026 Antiguan general election

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30 April 2026
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All 17 seats in the House of Representatives
9 seats needed for a majority
Registered63,313
Turnout62.41% (Decrease 7.93pp)
  First party Second party Third party
 
Leader Gaston Browne Jamale Pringle Trevor Walker
Party ABLP UPP BPM
Leader's seat St. John's City West All Saints East & St. Luke Barbuda
Last election 47.06%, 9 seats 45.22%, 6 seats 1.46%, 1 seat
Seats won 15 1 1
Seat change Increase 6 Decrease 5 Steady
Popular vote 23,818 14,614 616
Percentage 60.79% 37.30% 1.57%
Swing Increase 13.73 pp Decrease 7.92 pp Increase 0.11 pp

Results by constituency

Prime Minister before election

Gaston Browne
ABLP

Subsequent Prime Minister

Gaston Browne
ABLP

General elections were held in Antigua and Barbuda on 30 April 2026 to elect members of the House of Representatives.[1] The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) had held a slim majority of seats since the 2023 election, making further gains in Parliament following the election of Rawdon Turner and the unofficial floor walk of Anthony Smith. However, it also experienced losses in the 2025 Barbuda Council election and the 2023 St. Mary's South by-election. Besides the ABLP, the United Progressive Party (UPP) and the Barbuda People's Movement (BPM), as well as various other independents and minor parties were expected to contest.

On 21 March, Prime Minister Gaston Browne had announced that general elections would be held within the next ninety days, and likely earlier.[2] Parliament was dissolved on 1 April, and the date of the election was subsequently announced at the ABLP's platform launch on 7 April.[3][4][1] Nomination day was on 13 April, and 1 May was a designated public holiday.[1]

At 23:49 AST, the Antigua Broadcasting Service (ABS) projected that the ABLP would retain its majority in parliament following the victory of Daryll Matthew in St. John's Rural South, propelling Browne to his fourth term as prime minister.[5][6]

Background

[edit]

Previous election

[edit]

At the previous general election in January 2023, the Labour Party, led by Gaston Browne, continued to hold its majority in the House of Representatives albeit in a significantly narrower manner, largely due to discontent caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.[7] An expelled member of the party, Asot Michael, managed to win a significant majority of the vote in Saint Peter on an independent ticket. Saint Peter had been a safe constituency for the party since its formation.[8] Labour also lost several seats across Antigua to the United Progressive Party, especially in suburban regions in the Central Plain and rural areas near the Shekerley Mountains. Labour was unable to win the majority of the popular vote and relied on narrow support in some urban districts in the St. John's area, most notably in St. John's City East.[9] Disputes from the sociopolitical crisis in Barbuda following Hurricane Irma also continued to influence the results in that constituency – Trevor Walker, leader of the Barbuda People's Movement, won nearly sixty percent of the votes on the island largely due to land and corruption issues.[10][failed verification]

Overall, Labour only carried one parish, Saint John, where the vast majority of the population resides, winning nine seats in total. The official opposition UPP won 6 seats, BPM won Barbuda, and independent Asot Michael retained his seat.[11][9] UPP leader Harold Lovell resigned from the party leadership following the election, causing the eventual rise of deputy leader Jamale Pringle.[12]

Senate

[edit]

The composition of the Senate fluctuated during this term in parliament. The Senate was appointed on 23 January 2023, a few days following the election – the prime minister, leader of the opposition, and the Barbuda Council each must recommend that senators be appointed on their behalf. Some senators are also appointed under the governor-general's discretion. Eleven of the senators were members of the Labour Party – many of whom were appointed to the Senate after they lost their seats in the House of Representatives.[13] All four general opposition senators appointed on behalf of Pringle were members of the United Progressive Party.[14] The Barbuda Council nominated a member of the BPM to hold the Barbuda Council seat.[15] An independent senator was nominated at the governor-general's discretion, initially Kiz Johnson.[16]

Dozens of senators came and went, mostly senators from the Labour Party contesting in House by-elections such as Dwayne George and Rawdon Turner, and some others departed due to political infighting, especially within the UPP during the party's credibility crisis.[17][18] Many senators who had left to contest by-elections were reappointed to the Senate following their losses. Unlike similar elections in the past, few senators on the government benches were granted ministerial portfolios – most ministers and other executive officials came from the House.[19]

Events of the 16th legislature

[edit]

Later in 2023, the Labour Party suffered a significant loss, losing in St. Mary's South by-election by a landslide.[20][21] It also continued to fail to win a seat in the 2023 Barbuda Council election. The discontent with the Labour government lasted until July 2024, when UPP MP Anthony Smith left the party and was appointed to the Labour Party government the following day.[22][23] This sparked a credibility crisis for the UPP, with internal dysfunction being revealed to the public and many calls for the party leadership to resign.[24] Following the assassination of independent St. Peter MP Asot Michael in November 2024, the Labour Party was able to emerge victorious with about three-fourths of the vote.[25] The Labour Party continued to fail to win a seat in the controversial 2025 Barbuda Council election, resulting in the BPM keeping to win all seats up for election.[26] The Prime Minister stated that the country was ready for a general election in a rally on 23 March 2025, and in the council election's aftermath, informal campaigning commenced.[27]

Due to repeated delays of the 2021 census until June 2025, the Constituency Boundaries Commission had originally proposed updating constituency boundaries based on voter registration counts. The constituency boundaries have not been changed since 1984, and constituency populations vary in the thousands. Review commenced in November 2025 although redistricting was not completed in time for the election.[28][29] In February 2026, long-time representative Robin Yearwood resigned from parliament, triggering a by-election in a seat that had been solidly safe for the ABLP for nearly fifty years until a slim majority in the 2023 election. The ABLP candidate Randy Baltimore ended up winning in a landslide on 16 March 2026, although his swearing-in was delayed due to eligibility concerns.[30][31][32] This victory caused various political scientists to recommend that Pringle resign from party leadership and Browne call for a general election, which Browne did on 21 March.[33][34][2]

Electoral system

[edit]

As of March 2026, there are seventeen single-member constituencies in Antigua and Barbuda, with members of the House of Representatives being elected by first-past-the-post voting. There are sixteen constituencies on Antigua and one on Barbuda.[35] In order to vote in Antigua and Barbuda, one must be an Antiguan and Barbudan citizen or the citizen of a Commonwealth country who is permanent resident in the country. One must also be aged eighteen or older and registered to vote with the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission.[36]

Political parties

[edit]

Antigua and Barbuda has a three-party system, with the Labour Party active throughout the country, the UPP being active in Antigua, and the BPM being active in Barbuda. The UPP and BPM are allied, with alignment on most political issues and previously having a coalition government from 2004 to 2014.[37] While formerly social democratic,[38] since independence the ABLP has been a mostly conservative party.[39] The table below lists political parties represented in the House of Representatives after the 2023 general election.[40]

Name Ideology Political position Leader 2023 result
Votes (%) Seats
Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Paternalistic conservatism
Anti-federalism
Centre-right Gaston Browne 47.06%
9 / 17
United Progressive Party Social democracy Centre-left Jamale Pringle 45.22%
6 / 17
Barbuda People's Movement Social democracy
Barbudan nationalism
Federalism
Centre-left to left-wing Trevor Walker 1.46%
1 / 17

Campaign

[edit]

Informal campaigning began on 28 March 2025, about a year before the election. Browne began criticising the UPP due to its credibility crisis, while maintaining a more cooperative tone with the BPM due to its recent council election victory.[41][42] The UPP promised to revamp the health, tourism, and education sectors.[43] The opposition also criticised an increase in vehicle licensing fees and low quality public utilities.[44]

A pre-campaign period took place in the aftermath of a by-election in St. Philip's North, where the ABLP planned a national convention scheduled on 12 April 2026,[45][46] while the cabinet announced a national clean-up campaign to be carried out across the country within the next two weeks to address environmental concerns.[47] The Electoral Commission also faced the task of getting more than 20,000 registered voters to replace their voter identification cards.[48] Richard Lewis, a UPP MP from St. John's Rural West, would also make efforts to provide temporary relief to deteriorating road conditions in the Gray's Hill area on 20 March.[49] In St. John's Rural South, UPP MP Emanuel Peters distributed 318 bowls of bullfoot soup to local residents as part of a pre-election outreach.[50] The former UPP leader Harold Lovell on 21 March urged the UPP to intensify grassroots engagement, refine its public messaging, and strengthen its organisational structure.[51]

On 22 March, the Electoral Commission would unveil a programme for the replacement of expired voter identification cards.[52] On the same day, Browne declared that he was prepared to take further legal action against political opponents, referencing an ongoing lawsuit tied to claims surrounding the sale of the super-yacht Alfa Nero.[53] Desmond Charles, a veteran member of the UPP, would resign from the party on 24 March, stating that his decision reflects a belief that the UPP's current direction no longer serves the best interests of Antigua and Barbuda.[54] On 25 March, Richard Lewis spoke on Observer AM, urging voters to judge candidates based on record, while also stating that the UPP was handling internal tensions privately.[55][56] Before the Parliament was prorogued on 27 March,[57] Labour MPs walked out after UPP leader Jamale Pringle criticized the retiring Molwyn Joseph's tenure during parliamentary tributes.[58] Pringle would later be removed from the sitting of parliament the same day after directly saying that he would not respect Osbert Frederick's authority as the Speaker of the House.[59]

On 27 March 2026, the Democratic National Alliance announced they would not be contesting in the election.[60] After an opinion poll published on 28 March highlighted the ABLP at 49% support compared to 26% for the UPP, Browne characterised the data as evidence of a significant directional shift in favor of ABLP.[61] Browne then stated that UPP leader Jamale Pringle was at risk of losing his position as party leader, citing weak polling numbers and parliamentary conduct as potential triggers for intra-party tensions.[62] Culture director Khan Cordice asked political candidates on 30 March to hire local artists in their campaigns instead of using artificial intelligence.[63] On 1 April, ABLP senator Michael Freeland would outline a vision centered on infrastructural improvement and community development after he had conducted community outreach over the course of a year.[64] On the same day, ABLP MP Maria Bird-Browne led a three-day bulk waste collection exercise across the constituency over the weekend.[65] The cabinet called for the support of Browne's leadership on 3 April, reflecting on a period of economic growth.[66]

Barbuda People's Movement leader Trevor Walker launched his campaign on 5 April, reaffirming his commitment to protecting Barbuda's rights, heritage and autonomy while urging residents to back the BPM at the polls.[67] The UPP also issued a statement the same day, stating that the party emphasized its approach to governance in listening, engagement, and delivering tangible opportunities.[68] ABLP candidate Kendra Beazer launched his campaign in Barbuda on 6 April, placing priorities on community-centered growth and expanding youth opportunities.[69]

The official campaign period would begin after the date of the election was revealed on 7 April, having been set for 30 April.[1] The ABLP branded their campaign as a "renaissance", centering their platform on the continued investment and expansion on healthcare, education, housing, and tourism.[70] UPP leader Pringle stated on 9 April that he faced intense internal pressure during the party's candidate selection process, describing the situation as having a "gun to his head", while also referencing the defection of Philmore Benjamin to the ABLP and his running in the St. Mary's North constituency.[71] The Antigua and Barbuda National Congress, a smaller party led by Gero Pero-Weston, stated on 9 April that it would not field candidates for the election.[72] On 12 April, Browne would be re-elected unopposed as the political leader of the ABLP.[73] The same day, Pringle would launch the UPP campaign, unveiling a five-pillar policy platform centered on food costs, roads, vehicle duties, water and healthcare.[74]

The ABLP accused the UPP of forging a letter purportedly made by senator Shenella Govia in an attempt to mislead voters on 13 April.[75] On the same day, BPM leader Trevor Walker pledged to improve healthcare access in Barbuda by securing a dialysis machine for residents.[76] An ABLP press release published on 15 April asked the UPP to deliver a public apology to Robin Yearwood and his family after the UPP's website, reportedly built and populated using AI tools, had falsely reported the death of Yearwood.[77] On 17 April, the ABLP also accused the UPP of creating a brightly coloured graphic showing ABLP leader Gaston Browne and Kendra Beazer, the ABLP candidate in Barbuda, kissing.[78] Two days after, Browne responded by framing the image as an opportunity to speak to his broader stance on non-discrimination and inclusivity.[79]

The UPP would withdraw its remaining candidates from the ABS programme Know Your Candidates, citing concerns over alleged bias in the show's format and presentation.[80] The ABLP manifesto also launched on 20 April, proposing a $1.5 billion tourism investment pipeline and an expanded housing and health programme.[81] A WIC News online survey also conducted the same day highlighted a strong support for the ABLP, revealing that the party had leads across all 17 constituencies.[82]

On 24 April 2026, Browne criticised the UPP over an AI image of a proposed sports complex, describing it as a "fairy tale" concept lacking any serious consideration of cost or feasibility.[83] The ABLP also accused the UPP of fabricating another letter relating to an entity identifying itself as the Caribbean Anticorruption Association, stating that there was no institutional record of the entity ever existing.[84] The ABLP then criticised the UPP the same day for not releasing a manifesto ahead of the election.[85] The UPP released their manifesto on 25 April, pledging to create a dedicated Diaspora Affairs portfolio within the office of the Prime Minister, five annual business grants of 20,000 dollars, and a youth land distribution programme.[86] Foreign Affairs minister Paul Chet Greene criticised the UPP manifesto, stating that there were no framework, no explanation of finances, and no explanation of costs.[87] The UPP responded by criticising the ABLP's campaign spending, raising that the ABLP had not translated financial resources into the daily lives of Antiguans and Barbudans, suggesting that the ABLP was more focused on retaining power than delivering public services.[88]

In the final days of the campaign, the ABLP would host their Red and Reddy Concert on 26 April.[89] The next day, the ABLP would report massive turnout in their 'megacade', a large motorcade stretched across key roadways across the island of Antigua.[90] On 28 April, DNA leader Joanne Massiah endorsed ABLP candidate Lamin Newton in All Saints East and St. Luke.[91] A final UPP rally was conducted on 29 April in All Saints, where Pringle stated that the UPP was ready to lead the people from day one.[92] The campaign period ended on 30 April, with workers being observed dismantling party signage in the last 30 minutes before polls closed.[93]

Conduct

[edit]

On 23 April, the OAS stated their intention to deploy a team of 17 experts and observers drawn from 11 countries to oversee electoral organisation, electoral technology, electoral justice, political-electoral finance, and the political participation of women.[94] On 25 April, election observers arrived from CARICOM, intending to gather data to support verification of results while also evaluating the conduct of electoral officials and political actors.[95] 190 polling stations across Antigua and Barbuda were open from 6:00 am AST to 6:00 pm AST.[96]

Candidates

[edit]

The UPP revealed a partial list of candidates on 1 January 2026,[97] while the ABLP revealed their candidate list on 23 March.[98] The UPP ratified their list on candidates on 7 April,[99] while the ABLP ratified their list of candidates on 12 April.[100] The Electoral Commission revealed on 14 April 2026 that 37 candidates were nominated for the election, consisting of 17 ABLP candidates, 16 UPP candidates, three independent candidates, and one BPM candidate.[101][102]

# Constituency ABLP UPP BPM Independents
1
St. John's City West Gaston Browne Alister Thomas
2
St. John's City East Melford Nicholas Pearl Quinn-Williams
3
St. John's City South Steadroy Benjamin Adrian Williams
4
St. John's Rural West Michael Joseph Richard Lewis Nigel Bascus
5
St. John's Rural South Daryll Mathew Emanuel Peters
6
St. John's Rural East Maria Browne Ashworth Azille
7
St. John's Rural North Charles Fernandez Malaka Parker
8
St. Mary's North Philmore Benjamin Jonathan Joseph
9
St. Mary's South Dwayne George Kelvin Simon
10
All Saints East and St. Luke Lamin Newton Jamale Pringle
11
All Saints West Anthony Smith Jr. Harold Lovell
12
St. George Michael Freeland Kelton Dalso Gail Pero-Weston
13
St. Peter Rawdon Turner George Wehner
14
St. Phillip North Randy Baltimore Alex Browne
15
St. Phillip South Kiz Nathaniel-Johnson Sherfield Bowen
16
St. Paul Chet Greene Franz deFreitas Alan Weston
17
Barbuda Kendra Beazer Trevor Walker
Source: Electoral Commission[102]

Results

[edit]

Results were largely similar to the 2018 election, with Gaston Browne securing a fourth term after the governing Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party won 15 seats, an increase of six seats from the previous election.[103] The United Progressive Party leader Jamale Pringle narrowly retained his seat in All Saints East & St. Luke,[104] while Barbuda People's Movement leader Trevor Walker won re-election in the constituency of Barbuda.[105] The ABLP secured strong leads across constituencies in Antigua, the UPP faced challenges in converting support into seats with limited breakthroughs, while independent candidates failed to make a significant electoral impact.[106] 63,313 voters were in the electorate,[107] and the Electoral Commission reported that the turnout of the election was 62.41%.[108]

PartyVotes%Seats+/–
Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party23,81860.7915+6
United Progressive Party14,61437.301–5
Barbuda People's Movement6161.5710
Independents1350.340–1
Total39,183100.00170
Valid votes39,18399.16
Invalid/blank votes3320.84
Total votes39,515100.00
Registered voters/turnout63,31362.41
Source: Electoral Commission

By constituency

[edit]
Constituency ABLP UPP BPM Ind Total
Votes % Votes % Votes % Votes %
All Saints East & St. Luke 1,239 46.90 1,403 53.10 2,642
All Saints West 1,945 55.48 1,561 44.52 3,506
Barbuda 391 38.83 616 61.17 1,007
St. George 2,198 60.80 1,359 37.59 58 1.61 3,615
St. John's City East 863 64.89 467 35.11 1,330
St. John's City South 887 71.71 350 28.29 1,237
St. John's City West 1,444 77.80 412 22.20 1,856
St. John's Rural East 2,127 68.15 994 31.85 3,121
St. John's Rural North 1,592 60.14 1,055 39.86 2,647
St. John's Rural South 1,457 60.71 943 39.29 2,400
St. John's Rural West 1,996 57.59 1,466 42.30 4 0.11 3,466
St. Mary's North 1,741 57.90 1,266 42.10 3,007
St. Mary's South 1,002 52.11 921 47.89 1,923
St. Paul 1,328 60.31 801 36.38 73 3.32 2,202
St. Peter 2,054 72.20 791 27.80 2,845
St. Philip North 1,061 73.58 381 26.42 1,442
St. Philip South 493 52.61 444 47.39 937
Total 23,818 60.79 14,614 37.30 616 1.57 135 0.34 39,183
Source: Electoral Commission

Aftermath

[edit]

Following the victory of the ABLP, the incumbent Prime Minister Gaston Browne thanked his supporters for their continued trust, framing the result as a mandate to continue developing the country, while additional focus on productivity, national unity, and development.[109] Browne was sworn in for his fourth term in office at 10:00 AST the following day on 1 May 2026 inside Government House.[110] Attorney general Steadroy Benjamin was sworn in for another term.[111] Browne expressed hope that the election results would usher in a more respectful political environment, while also further emphasizing accountability within his administration.[112] U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Browne and reaffirmed their commitment to work with Antigua and Barbuda in the matters of regional security and law enforcement.[113] UPP leader Jamale Pringle conceded defeat and emphasized his gratitude to supporters, pledging to build on his previous work and deliver for Antiguans.[114] Regional pollster Peter Wickham also raised doubts about Pringle's continued leadership of the UPP, warning that the circumstances of the election may fuel internal tensions within the party.[115]

After BPM leader Trevor Walker retained his seat in the largest margin of victory on the island of Barbuda, he stated that the issue of land remained as the BPM's main platform and called for his Labour opponent Kendra Beazer to cut ties with the ABLP.[116] While Beazer was slightly disappointed in the results on Barbuda, he stated that he felt content in the fact that he ran a decent campaign, expressing his willingness to remain active in politics.[117]

Governor-General Rodney Williams disclosed that the oath administered on 1 May was incorrect since the Oaths Act that passed in 2025 had taken effect after 1 January 2026. As a result, both Browne and attorney-general Benjamin had to be sworn in a second time on 2 May.[118] The rest of Browne's fourth cabinet was sworn in on 5 May 2026.[119][120] During the swearing-in ceremony, the death of Cheryl Mary Clare Hurst, the former ABLP general secretary who was succeeded by Shenella Govia in April 2026,[46][73] was announced by Browne.[121][122]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d "BREAKING: Antigua and Barbuda Will Go To The Polls On April 30". Antigua News Room. 8 April 2026. Retrieved 8 April 2026.
  2. ^ a b "BREAKING: PM says general elections will be held within 90 days". Antigua News Room. 21 March 2026. Retrieved 21 March 2026.
  3. ^ "Parliament Dissolved, Antigua and Barbuda in election mode". Antigua News Room. 1 April 2026. Retrieved 2 April 2026.
  4. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (27 March 2026). "Breaking: Browne Moves To Dissolve Parliament, Signals Snap Election—But Grants Opposition "Mercy"". Antigua News. Retrieved 27 March 2026.
  5. ^ ABS ELECTION NIGHT COVERAGE (Thursday April 30th 2026) | ABS Television/Radio. Retrieved 1 May 2026 – via Facebook.
  6. ^ "Gaston Browne Secures Historic Fourth Term, ABLP Wins General Election in grand style". Antigua News Room. 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026.
  7. ^ "LISTEN: Conditions That Tightened 2023 Race "Do Not Exist" in This By-Election". Antigua News Room. 23 February 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026.
  8. ^ "Asot Michael wins St. Peter seat as independent candidate". Antigua News Room. 19 January 2023. Retrieved 1 May 2026.
  9. ^ a b "BREAKING: ABLP retains government by slim majority". Antigua News Room. 19 January 2023. Archived from the original on 19 January 2023. Retrieved 19 January 2023.
  10. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "Trevor Walker Holds Barbuda as BPM Keeps Strong Grip". Antigua News. Retrieved 1 May 2026.
  11. ^ Thomas, Latrishka (19 January 2023). "ABLP narrowly escapes defeat in Antigua and Barbuda Election". Loop News. Archived from the original on 19 January 2023. Retrieved 19 January 2023.
  12. ^ Wilkinson, Bert (19 January 2023). "PM Browne wins again…just – Caribbean Life". Caribbean Life. Archived from the original on 19 January 2023. Retrieved 19 January 2023.
  13. ^ "Government of Antigua and Barbuda". ab.gov.ag. Retrieved 10 July 2024.
  14. ^ "New UPP leader and opposition senators sworn in". Antigua Observer Newspaper.
  15. ^ "Fabian Jones sworn in for second consecutive term as opposition's Barbuda senator". Antigua Observer Newspaper.
  16. ^ "Senator Antonio Resigns; Kiz Johnson to Be Sworn In as Government Senator". Antigua News Room. 5 December 2025. Retrieved 5 December 2025.
  17. ^ "Alex Browne Resigns Senate Seat Ahead of By-Election". Antigua News Room. 20 February 2026. Retrieved 20 February 2026.
  18. ^ "Dwayne George sworn in as ABLP Senator". 3 August 2023.
  19. ^ "PM, AG sworn in as first members of 'nimble' Cabinet in Antigua". iWitness News. 20 January 2023. Retrieved 1 May 2026.
  20. ^ Michael, Vivian (31 March 2023). "'We are humbled': Victory for BPM with clean sweep in Barbuda Council elections". Antigua Observer Newspaper. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  21. ^ http://www.abec.gov.ag/sms/
  22. ^ Editorial Staff (15 July 2024). "BREAKING: Anthony Smith Resigns From UPP - Antigua News !". Retrieved 19 January 2025. Antigua.news
  23. ^ SWEARING-IN CEREMONY FOR THE HON. ANTHONY SMITH (Tuesday July 16th 2024). ABS TV Antigua. 16 July 2024. Retrieved 16 July 2024 – via YouTube.
  24. ^ "UPP Leader vows to stay the course, will not resign despite indirect pressure from traditional party bosses". WiredJa. 24 September 2024. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  25. ^ "St. Peter Decides 2025". ABS TV/Radio. 20 March 2013. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  26. ^ Barbuda Council Election Watch 2025 | Barbuda Council Election Watch 2025 | By Barbuda Channel. Retrieved 27 March 2025 – via Facebook.
  27. ^ "PM Browne Hints at Election Timing: "It's Coming Soon"". Antigua News Room. 28 March 2025. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  28. ^ George, Elesha (17 January 2025). "Government Appoints New Constituencies Boundaries Commission Members". Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  29. ^ "Boundaries Commission Begins Comprehensive Review of Constituency Lines". Antigua News Room. 25 November 2025. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  30. ^ "VIDEO: Sir Robin officially resigns as MP, after marking 50 years in political office". Antigua News. 18 February 2026. Retrieved 18 February 2026.
  31. ^ "Antigua and Barbuda Election 2014: St. Phillip North". Caribbean Elections. Archived from the original on 21 December 2019. Retrieved 1 January 2026.
  32. ^ "Baltimore Swearing-In Delayed After Court Challenge to By-Election Win". Antigua News Room. 22 March 2026. Retrieved 23 March 2026.
  33. ^ Brown, Calvin G. (24 March 2026). "Pringle Fires Back: UPP Leader Dismisses Resignation Reports as Prime Minister's Political Sabotage". WiredJa. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  34. ^ "Wickham believes PM should seize momentum with early election call". Antigua Observer Newspaper. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  35. ^ "IPU PARLINE database: ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA (House of Representatives), Electoral system". archive.ipu.org. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  36. ^ Antigua and Barbuda Constitution Order (PDF).
  37. ^ Puddington, Arch; Piano, Aili; Neubauer, Katrina; Roylance, Tyler (16 October 2009). Freedom In The World 2009 (PDF). Freedom House (Report). Retrieved 24 April 2026. In March 2004 elections, after a hard-fought and at times vitriolic campaign, the UPP, led by Baldwin Spencer, defeated the ALP. It took 12 seats in the 17-seat lower house, and its ally, the Barbuda People's Movement (BPM), won the seat representing Barbuda.
  38. ^ Gascoigne, Joseph Michael (September 2020). "Partyism and Polarisation: A History of Antiguan Political Culture, 1967–1976" (PDF). etheses.whiterose.ac.uk. University of York. Retrieved 24 April 2026. Prior to 1968 many electoral seats went uncontested with the ALP winning every campaign in which they stood, and the only campaign literature were small and vague booklets on the labour movement.
  39. ^ Payne, Douglas W. (1 June 1999). "THE FAILINGS OF GOVERNANCE IN ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA" (PDF). Center for Strategic & International Studies. Retrieved 24 April 2026. Stanford, Rappaport, and the Hadeeds are naturalized citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, which allows Lester to boast that only five per cent of the land in the country is owned by foreigners. They, along with the relatively small number of other immigrant and local families who have amassed enormous wealth thanks to cosy relations with the Birds, sit atop what has become one of the most unequal societies in the English-speaking Caribbean.
  40. ^ "Declaration of Results 2023 General Elections from ABEC". Antigua News Room. 19 January 2023. Archived from the original on 19 January 2023. Retrieved 19 January 2023.
  41. ^ "PM Browne Blasts Opposition as 'Constellation of Fools'". Antigua News Room. 28 March 2025. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  42. ^ "Government Open to Talks as New Barbuda Council Is Elected". Antigua News Room. 27 March 2025. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  43. ^ "UPP Promises to Revamp Health, Education, and Tourism Sectors". Antigua News Room. 28 March 2025. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  44. ^ "Pringle Calls for Voter Mobilization, Warns of Snap Elections". Antigua News Room. 28 March 2025. Retrieved 28 March 2025.
  45. ^ Wayland, Cory (19 March 2026). "ABLP Eyes April Convention Following By-Election Momentum". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Buoyed by its decisive victory in the St. Philip's North by-election, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) is now turning its attention to internal preparations, with plans underway for a national convention in April 2026.
  46. ^ a b Bique-Charles, Shermain (23 March 2026). "Browne Unopposed as ABLP Leader Ahead of April 12 Convention". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has been nominated unopposed to continue as Political Leader of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), as the party finalises its leadership slate ahead of a national convention scheduled for April 12.
  47. ^ "Government announces national clean-up campaign as pollution concerns persist". Antigua.news. 20 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said the coordinated, multi-agency effort would include the removal of litter and derelict items, clearing of bushes and overgrown vegetation, cleaning of drains and waterways, and enhancement of public spaces and road verges.
  48. ^ "Around 20,000 People Yet to Replace Expired Voter ID Cards". Antigua.news. 21 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The Commission's own figures indicate that roughly 40,000 people who need to replace their cards, just 19,567 applications have been recorded to date, meaning approximately 20,000 people have yet to come forward. That is nearly one in every two people who should have already begun the process.
  49. ^ Wayland, Cory (20 March 2026). "MP Lewis Steps In to Aid Gray's Hill Residents Amid Mounting Road Safety Concerns". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Lewis, representing the United Progressive Party, said the cries of residents have gone unanswered for far too long, with repeated calls for repairs failing to bring meaningful action from the authorities. According to the MP, the condition of the roadway has posed ongoing risks to both motorists and pedestrians.
  50. ^ "UPP's Emanuel Peters Distributes 318 Meals in Rural South Outreach". Antigua News Room. 21 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The outreach comes as political activity intensifies ahead of an anticipated general election, with candidates from both major parties increasing visibility and community-based initiatives across constituencies.
  51. ^ "Lovell Calls on UPP to Sharpen Messaging and Rebuild After By-Election Loss". Antiguan Herald. Antigua News Room. 21 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Former United Progressive Party (UPP) political leader Harold Lovell is urging the party to intensify grassroots engagement, refine its public messaging, and strengthen its organisational structure in the wake of the St. Philip's North by-election.
  52. ^ "ABEC Launches Voter ID Replacement Programme Ahead of Elections". Antiguan Herald. 22 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The replacement service will operate Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at registration units across constituencies. ABEC is directing eligible voters to visit the registration unit where their names appear on the electoral register to begin the process.
  53. ^ "PM Browne Warns Political Rivals of Legal Action, Cites Unbeaten Defamation Record". Antiguan Herald. Antigua News Room. 22 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. According to Antigua News Room, Mr. Browne addressed an ongoing lawsuit tied to claims surrounding the sale of the super-yacht Alfa Nero during his weekly radio programme. Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan noted that the case has encountered a procedural hurdle — one defendant, Martin De Luca, had not been properly served with legal documents.
  54. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (24 March 2026). "BREAKING: Veteran UPP Member Desmond Charles Resigns, Blasts Party Leadership and Direction". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. In a strongly worded resignation letter addressed to General Secretary Shawn Nicholas, Charles pointed to what he described as a deep deterioration within the party — citing "self-centeredness, gross disrespect," and a lack of strategic direction.
  55. ^ "MP Richard Lewis Urges Voters to Judge Candidates on Record, Not Party Label". Antiguan Herald. 25 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. St. John's Rural West Member of Parliament Richard Lewis is calling on voters to evaluate candidates based on individual performance rather than party affiliation, as Antigua and Barbuda moves closer to a general election.
  56. ^ "UPP Resolving Internal Tensions Behind Closed Doors Ahead of General Election". Antiguan Herald. 25 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. According to Antigua News Room, Lewis made the remarks during an appearance on Observer AM, where he acknowledged concerns about party cohesion but insisted those matters are being handled away from public view.
  57. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (27 March 2026). "Shock Move in the House: Browne Announces Imminent Prorogation of Parliament". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that Parliament will be prorogued, delivering the unexpected declaration during what had been a solemn sitting of tributes in the House of Representatives.
  58. ^ "BREAKING: MP's and Members of Public Walk Out As Opposition Leader Trashes Outgoing MP". Antigua News Room. 27 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Pringle said he would not be gracious to Sir Molwyn, the current MP for St. Mary's North, citing how the veteran politician had treated him in Parliament.
  59. ^ "Opposition Leader Ejected from Parliament After Defying Speaker's Authority". Antiguan Herald. 27 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The situation escalated sharply when Pringle directly told Speaker Frederick that he did not respect his authority — a declaration that preceded his ejection from the chamber.
  60. ^ Michael, Vivian. "DNA bows out of snap elections, calls for free and fair vote". Antigua Observer Newspaper. Retrieved 28 March 2026. In a press release, the party confirmed it would sit out the snap elections, marking an absence from the ballot for the third-party movement that once positioned itself as an alternative to Antigua and Barbuda's two dominant political forces.
  61. ^ "Poll Shows ABLP With 23-Point Lead Over UPP, Browne Claims". Antiguan Herald. 28 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Browne further characterised the data as evidence of a significant directional shift, stating that the ABLP is up 13 percentage points from previous figures while the UPP has fallen by 9 points.
  62. ^ "PM Browne Warns Poor Polls and Parliament Conduct Could Cost Pringle UPP Leadership". Antiguan Herald. 29 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Browne suggested that recent developments have raised serious questions about Pringle's grip on the UPP leadership, indicating that continued setbacks could embolden rivals inside his own ranks to move against him.
  63. ^ "Khan Cordice Tells Politicians: Hire Local Artists Instead of Only Using AI This Election". Antigua News Room. 30 March 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Cordice also pointed to the growing use of artificial intelligence in campaign production, cautioning that reliance on AI could send the wrong message to artists whose livelihoods depend on creative work.
  64. ^ "Senator Freeland Builds Momentum in St. George Through Community Engagement". Antiguan Herald. 1 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Looking ahead, Freeland has outlined a vision centred on infrastructural improvement and community development. He has emphasised the need for consistent roadwork and addressing long-standing drainage issues — concerns that directly affect daily life.
  65. ^ "Day 3 of Bulk Waste Clean-Up Wraps Up in St John's Rural East". Antigua News Room. 1 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Member of Parliament for St John's Rural East, Maria Vanessa Browne, led a three-day bulk waste collection exercise across the constituency over the weekend, as part of ongoing efforts to improve community conditions.
  66. ^ "Cabinet Calls for Support for Browne's Leadership Ahead of Elections". Antigua News Room. 3 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The Cabinet urges you to get your cards validated and get ready to proceed with focus and a shared commitment to advancing the work of the Gaston Browne government for the benefit of all of Antigua and Barbuda.
  67. ^ "Walker launches Barbuda campaign, pledges to defend rights and heritage". Antigua News Room. 5 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Trevor Walker has formally launched his election campaign, reaffirming his commitment to protecting the island's rights, heritage and autonomy while urging residents to back the Barbuda People's Movement at the polls.
  68. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (5 April 2026). "UPP Promotes 'People First' Leadership Message Ahead of Elections". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The United Progressive Party (UPP) is reinforcing its campaign message of service-driven leadership, declaring that government must work in the best interest of the people.
  69. ^ "Kendra Beazer Launches Campaign for Barbuda: "One Barbuda. One Future."". Antigua News Room. 6 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Kendra Beazer, respected educator, youth mentor, and elected member of the Barbuda Council, has officially launched his campaign under the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) banner with the rallying call: "One Barbuda. One Future. A Better Barbuda with Beazer!"
  70. ^ "Greene Explains What 'Renaissance' Means to Him as ABLP Unveils People-Centred Agenda". Antigua News Room. 8 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. According to Greene, the Renaissance will guide continued investment and expansion across key sectors, including healthcare, education, housing and tourism, building on work already undertaken by the administration.
  71. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (9 April 2026). "WATCH: Pringle Says He Had a "Gun to His Head" Amid Threats of Defection". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Leader of the UPP and candidate for All Saints East and St. Luke, Jamale Pringle, says he faced intense internal pressure during the party's candidate selection process, describing it as having a "gun to his head".
  72. ^ "New party, ABNC, Announces It Will Not Field Candidates in General Election". Antigua.news. 9 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Despite its absence from the ballot, the party signalled it remains committed to its long-term mission. "We continue in hope for a purposeful future and the opportunity to deliver meaningful change," it said.
  73. ^ a b Bique-Charles, Shermain (12 April 2026). "Browne Re-elected Unopposed as ABLP Leader, Greene Retains Chairmanship". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Leader of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) and Prime Minister Gaston Browne has been re-elected unopposed as political leader of the party, solidifying his continued leadership ahead of the upcoming general elections.
  74. ^ "UPP prays over candidates as party launches "Ignite" campaign ahead of April 30 elections". Antigua.news. 12 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The United Progressive Party (UPP) opened its general election campaign on Sunday night, bringing its slate of candidates before three pastors for prayer, setting a deliberate spiritual tone as the party seeks to unseat the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) at the April 30 polls.
  75. ^ "ABLP Accuses UPP of Circulating Forged Letter Ahead of Elections". Antiguan Herald. 13 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. In a formal statement, the ABLP outlined what it described as clear indicators that the document is fraudulent, arguing that the flaws in the fabrication reflect poorly on the opposition's competence. The party stopped short of detailing the specific red flags in its public release but maintained that they are readily apparent.
  76. ^ "Walker Promises Dialysis Machine for Barbuda Patients". Antigua.news. 14 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Speaking at a community meeting last night, Walker highlighted the challenges of traveling to Antigua multiple times per week for life-saving treatment.
  77. ^ "Sir Robin Yearwood Demands UPP Apologize for Saying He's Dead". Antigua.news. 15 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The UPP website was built and populated using artificial intelligence tools. The false claim about Sir Robin Yearwood appears to be AI-generated content that was published without any human verification. This is consistent with a pattern of serious errors found throughout the site, including planning instructions left visible on the homepage, candidates listed in the wrong constituencies, a fabricated phone number in the party's contact details, and broken links on pages marked "Electoral Compliance."
  78. ^ "PM Browne Alleges Opposition Linked to 'Clandestine' Pro-LGBTQ Campaign Material". Antigua News Room. 17 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The post featured a brightly coloured graphic showing two men kissing, styled to resemble Browne and Kendra Beazer. The image appears to be digitally created rather than a real photograph.
  79. ^ "PM Browne Turns Doctored Image Into Inclusivity Message During Election Campaign". Antiguan Herald. 19 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Rather than respond defensively, the Prime Minister and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party leader framed the episode as an opportunity to speak to his broader stance on non-discrimination.
  80. ^ "UPP Withdraws Remaining Candidates from ABS 'Know Your Candidates' Programme". Antigua.news. 20 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The United Progressive Party (UPP) has withdrawn its remaining candidates from the state-run ABS Television programme Know Your Candidates, citing concerns over alleged bias in the show's format and presentation.
  81. ^ "ABLP unveils "Renaissance" manifesto with $1.5B tourism pipeline, health expansions and housing revolution as centrepieces of fourth-term bid". Antigua.news. 20 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) launched its general election manifesto today at the American University of Antigua Conference Centre, pitching a 1.5 billion US dollar tourism investment pipeline and an expanded housing and health programme as part of the party's bid for a fourth consecutive term in office.
  82. ^ Walker, Monika (20 April 2026). "WIC News Survey: ABLP Will Win All 17 Seats in Antigua General Elections". WIC News. Retrieved 1 May 2026. According to the polling dashboard, a total of 1,137 votes were recorded of which the current ruling party secured 922 votes while the UPP garnered 185 votes which accounted for just 16.3% of the vote share. Other parties collectively received a marginal 2.6%. The survey results highlight a significant victory margin of 737 votes between the leading ABLP and second-placed UPP.
  83. ^ "UPP Under Fire For Ai Generated 'Fantasy' Sports Complex Proposal". Antigua News Room. 24 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has sharply criticized a proposed multi-billion dollar sports facility circulating online, describing it as a "fairy tale" concept lacking any serious consideration of cost or feasibility.
  84. ^ "ABLP Accuses UPP of Orchestrating Fabricated Letter Scandal Ahead of Elections". Antiguan Herald. 24 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The ABLP contends the denial lacks credibility, pointing out that the UPP simultaneously endorsed the contents of the document by arguing that the allegations it contains "require answers." The party argues the UPP cannot disown the letter's origins while continuing to advance the claims within it.
  85. ^ "ABLP Accuses UPP of Contempt for Voters Over Failure to Release Manifesto". Antiguan Herald. 24 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Despite producing no manifesto of its own, the UPP has nonetheless levelled criticism at the ABLP's manifesto — without substance, without specifics, and without offering any alternative policy positions, the ruling party said.
  86. ^ "UPP Launches Campaign Website with Diaspora Portfolio, $20,000 Business Grants and 2,000 Youth Land Plots Among New Election Promises". Antigua.news. 25 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Among the latest proposals by the opposition, the UPP said it will establish a dedicated Diaspora Affairs portfolio housed within the Office of the Prime Minister, creating a one-stop shop for nationals abroad, partnering with stakeholders to develop a Retirement Village, and reestablishing the Independence Homecoming Festival.
  87. ^ "ABLP Chairman Dismisses UPP's Online Policy Posting as 'No Plan'". Antiguan Herald. 25 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. He stated that the UPP's postings contain no consolidated fiscal framework, no integrated explanation of how its many promises will be financed, and no serious costing of the commitments being made. Greene noted that the pledges outlined would require the expenditure of hundreds of millions of dollars, yet the UPP has offered no explanation of their funding source.
  88. ^ "UPP Fires Back at ABLP Criticism of Opposition Manifesto". Antiguan Herald. 26 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The UPP raised the question of why such financial resources have not translated into tangible improvements in citizens' daily lives, suggesting the ruling party is more focused on retaining power than delivering public services.
  89. ^ Wayland, Cory (26 April 2026). "Thousands Pack Rising Sun Grounds for ABLP's Red and Reddy Concert". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Rising Sun Grounds was transformed into a sea of red as supporters gathered for the free concert, which mixed political energy with entertainment in the final stretch of the campaign. The event featured performances from top regional and local acts, including Masicka, Sizzla, Burning Flames, Destra Garcia, Asa Bantan, Claudette Peters and Tian Winter.
  90. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (27 April 2026). "ABLP Claims Record-Breaking Turnout for Mega Motorcade Across Island". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) says its island-wide "Megacade" on Sunday was a resounding success, drawing what it described as record-breaking participation from supporters across multiple constituencies.
  91. ^ "Massiah Throws Support Behind ABLP's Lamin Newton in Surprise Election Twist". Antigua.news. 28 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. In a development that is already stirring political discussion, Joanne Massiah, leader of the Democratic National Alliance, has publicly rallied support behind Lamin Newton, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party candidate for All Saints East and St Luke.
  92. ^ "Pringle says the challenges he faced within the UPP prepared him to be Prime Minister". Antigua News Room. 29 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Jamale Pringle declared he was "forged in fire" through internal party struggles, public criticism and political uncertainty, telling supporters his leadership has been tested and that the United Progressive Party (UPP) is now "ready from day one" to govern Antigua and Barbuda.
  93. ^ "Campaign Billboards Come Down as Antigua and Barbuda Polls Near Closing". Antiguan Herald. 30 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The removal of billboards from roadsides and display points nationwide, including in Freemans Village, came as a visible signal that the campaign period had drawn to a close ahead of the vote count.
  94. ^ "OAS to Deploy Electoral Observation Mission to Antigua and Barbuda for 2026 General Elections". Antigua.news. 23 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The deployment marks the fifth time the hemispheric body has dispatched an electoral mission to Antigua, with financial backing secured from Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Korea, and the United States.
  95. ^ "Caricom observers arrive in Antigua, schedule talks with stakeholders ahead of polls - Jamaica Observer". 25 April 2026. Retrieved 30 April 2026.
  96. ^ "Antiguans voting for a new government". Jamaica Observer. 30 April 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Antiguans are heading to an estimated 190 polling stations across the country on Thursday to cast ballots in a general election that the country's Prime Minister Gaston Browne called almost two years ahead of the constitutional deadline. The polling stations, which opened at 6.00 am (local time), will close 12 hours later.
  97. ^ "UPP Unveils 15 Caretakers and Candidates Ahead of the Next General Elections". Antigua News Room. 1 January 2026. Retrieved 23 April 2026. Pringle said a caretaker for St. George will be named in the coming weeks after the party's branch in that constituency completes its internal process.
  98. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (23 March 2026). "Full Slate Revealed: ABLP Finalizes 17 Candidates for General Elections". Antigua.news. Retrieved 23 April 2026. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has finalized its full slate of 17 candidates who will contest the upcoming general elections, as the party intensifies preparations for a vote expected within weeks.
  99. ^ "UPP Locks In Its 16 Candidates Ahead of April 30th General Election". Antigua.news. 8 April 2026. Retrieved 23 April 2026. The ratification took place at a General Council meeting held at Freedom Hall on Tuesday night, where delegates from all constituency branches gathered to formally endorse the party's full slate.
  100. ^ "ABLP Ratifies Full Slate of 17 Candidates for April 30 General Election". Antiguan Herald. 12 April 2026. Retrieved 23 April 2026. Several sitting ministers and senior party figures also featured on the confirmed list, including E.P. Chet Greene in St Paul, Daryll Matthew in St John's Rural South, Maria Browne in St John's Rural East, and Charles Fernandez in St John's Rural North.
  101. ^ Davis, Jovani (14 April 2026). "37 candidates nominated for Antigua and Barbuda snap general election". Caribbean National Weekly. Retrieved 23 April 2026. ABEC said the main opposition United Progressive Party will contest the 16 seats on Antigua, while its affiliate, the Barbuda People's Movement, will contest the Barbuda constituency.
  102. ^ a b "REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT, CAP. 379" (PDF). Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission. 14 April 2026. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 April 2026. Retrieved 23 April 2026.
  103. ^ Peter, Sarah (1 May 2026). "Antigua and Barbuda PM Browne wins fourth term promising growth". Reuters. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Browne's Labour Party increased its majority by winning 15 seats in the 17-seat parliament, according to preliminary official data. The opposition United Progressive Party, seen as its main challenger, won only one seat.
  104. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "Pringle Holds Firm: Opposition Leader Retains All Saints East and St Luke Seat". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The United Progressive Party (UPP) political leader fended off a challenge from Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) newcomer Lamin Newton in a closely watched contest.
  105. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (30 April 2026). "Trevor Walker Holds Barbuda as BPM Keeps Strong Grip". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Trevor Walker has successfully retained his seat for the Barbuda People's Movement (BPM), securing over 60% of the votes in the Barbuda constituency in Thursday's General Elections.
  106. ^ Walker, Monika (1 May 2026). "Gaston Browne wins 4th term as Antigua and Barbuda's Prime Minister". WIC News. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The ABLP's performance has been particularly strong across key constituencies including St. George, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Mary's, and All Saints where the party has either secured victories or maintained commanding leads. The UPP, led by Jamale Pringle, faced challenges in converting support into seats with results indicating limited breakthroughs as counting progressed. Independent candidates also failed to make a significant electoral impact in the early stages of the count.
  107. ^ Babayev, Nijat (1 May 2026). "Antigua and Barbuda general election: PM Browne wins fourth term in office". News.az. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Early data showed a voter turnout of 35.85%, with 22,699 voters casting ballots out of 63,313 registered voters.
  108. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "ABEC Officially Declares 2026 General Election Results as ABLP Secures Dominant Victory". Antigua.news. Archived from the original on 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has formally declared the official results of the 2026 General Elections, confirming a sweeping victory for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) across the majority of constituencies.
  109. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "From Mandate to Mission: Gaston Browne Pledges Unity After Sweeping Victory". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Speaking in the aftermath of what is being described as a resounding mandate for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), Browne thanked voters for standing by his leadership despite years of criticism and political attacks.
  110. ^ "Gaston Browne to Be Sworn This Morning After Landslide Victory". Antigua News Room. 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Government House in St. John's.
  111. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "PM Browne and AG Benjamin Officially Sworn In Following Election Victory". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Steadroy Benjamin was also sworn in, resuming his role within the Cabinet as one of the government's most senior legal officials.
  112. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "Browne Calls for Unity, Truth and National Renewal in Post Swearing-In Address". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. He expressed hope that the election results would usher in a more respectful political environment, urging leaders on both sides to embrace honesty and responsible conduct.
  113. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (1 May 2026). "U.S. Congratulates PM Browne, Signals Continued Security Cooperation". Antigua.news. Retrieved 1 May 2026. In a statement issued by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Washington acknowledged Browne's electoral success and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with Antigua and Barbuda.
  114. ^ "Pringle Concedes Defeat, Says UPP Will Speak 'In a Short Time' After Heavy Loss". Antigua News Room. 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. United Progressive Party (UPP) leader Jamale Pringle has conceded defeat in Thursday's general election and signalled that the party will outline its next steps soon following a crushing national loss.
  115. ^ "Wickham Questions Pringle's Future as UPP Leader, Suggests Party May Look Elsewhere". Antigua News Room. 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. In post-election analysis, Wickham argued that Pringle's position as opposition leader is a result of electoral circumstances rather than leadership strength, warning that this distinction could fuel internal tensions within the party.
  116. ^ Michael, Vivian (1 May 2026). "Jubilant Trevor Walker sends clear message to ABLP". Antigua Observer. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Trevor Walker and the Barbuda People's Movement (BPM) declared their success at the polls as historic, saying it sends a clear message from the people of Barbuda to the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). Walker won the Barbuda seat by more than 200 votes — the largest margin of victory in the sister island's electoral history.
  117. ^ "'A Bit Disappointed': Beazer Reflects on Barbuda Loss, Vows to Stay in Politics". Antigua News Room. 1 May 2026. Retrieved 1 May 2026. Looking ahead, Beazer signalled that he intends to remain active in politics, regardless of whether he contests future elections.
  118. ^ "Correct Oath Administered After Swearing-In Error Involving Prime Minister and Attorney General". Antigua News Room. 2 May 2026. Retrieved 3 May 2026.
  119. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (5 May 2026). "Meet Your New Ministers: ABLP Cabinet Officially Sworn In". Antigua.news. Archived from the original on 6 May 2026. Retrieved 6 May 2026. The new Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Cabinet has been officially sworn in, marking the formal start of Prime Minister Gaston Browne's fourth consecutive term in office.
  120. ^ "FULL: Cabinet of Ministers and Their Portfolios". Antigua News Room. 5 May 2026. Archived from the original on 6 May 2026. Retrieved 6 May 2026.
  121. ^ "BREAKING: Former Senator and ABLP General Secretary Mary-Clare Hurst Dies". Antigua News Room. 5 May 2026. Archived from the original on 6 May 2026. Retrieved 6 May 2026. Browne told the audience he had just received the news, describing Hurst as a "dear friend" and a longstanding figure within the Labour Party. He said her passing was shocking and extended condolences to her family and loved ones, noting that the party would stand in support during what he described as a difficult period.
  122. ^ Bique-Charles, Shermain (5 May 2026). "BREAKING: Former Senator Mary-Clare Hurst Dies; PM Announces Passing". Antigua.news. Retrieved 6 May 2026. The nation has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Government Mary-Clare Hurst, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne breaking the news moments ago.