Prime Minister Gaston Browne has formally advised Governor General Sir Rodney Williams to dissolve Parliament on April 1, triggering the start of the general election process in Antigua and Barbuda, according to Antigua News Room.
Browne made the announcement in Parliament, stating that the advice was given in accordance with Section 60(1) of the Constitution, which permits the Governor General to dissolve Parliament upon the prime minister's recommendation.
"I have written to His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams today, advising him," Browne said, describing the move as the start of the next phase of the electoral process.
The Prime Minister noted that the government had originally planned to prorogue Parliament immediately, which would have made an election date as early as April 17 possible. However, the timeline was adjusted to allow the opposition additional time to prepare.
"It's evident the opposition is not quite ready as yet… they still do not have a full slate," Browne told the House. He added that colleagues had encouraged him to allow "a few more days" for the opposition to get ready.
Under the revised plan, Parliament will be dissolved by proclamation on April 1. The writ of election is expected to be issued either on that date or within a week, depending on the opposition's level of preparedness.
Once the writ is issued, general elections must be held within 21 days, pointing to a possible election date in late April. Browne made clear, however, that the extension of time would be limited. "We will not give the members on the other side more than an additional week," he said.
Further correspondence will be sent to the Governor General outlining the final timeline, including nomination day and the official election date.
Political parties are expected to finalize their candidate slates and campaign plans in the days ahead as the country moves toward a general election.
