Randy Baltimore has forcefully denied allegations of political misconduct stemming from a community gift distribution ahead of the St. Philip's North by-election, accusing critics of weaponising the initiative for partisan purposes.
According to Antigua.news, the controversy was sparked by social media posts showing Baltimore and members of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) distributing gifts within the constituency. The United Progressive Party (UPP) subsequently labelled the activity as "tantamount to bribery," alleging it influenced the outcome of the recent by-election.
In a strongly worded statement issued last night, Baltimore dismissed the accusations as "baseless" and driven by political opportunism.
"This was never about politics — it was about people," Baltimore said. "It was about bringing joy to children and families during the Christmas season and giving back to a community we are proud to serve."
Baltimore reserved particular criticism for what he characterised as the exploitation of images involving children to advance what he called a "false and malicious narrative."
"It is both unfortunate and deeply distasteful that anyone would seek to weaponize a moment meant for children in order to score political points," he said.
Baltimore also defended the judgment of St. Philip's North residents, arguing they are fully capable of distinguishing genuine community engagement from political rhetoric.
