Prime Minister Gaston Browne has launched a scathing attack on Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, condemning his behaviour during Thursday's sitting of Parliament — which included his removal from the chamber and remarks widely criticised as inappropriate during tributes to retiring MP Sir Molwyn Joseph.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne took to social media following the sitting to publicly denounce Pringle's overall conduct. "If anyone had any doubt that Jamale Pringle (Leader of the Opposition) is an incompetent, ignorant, hot mess — today's despicable tribute in Parliament is full confirmation," the Prime Minister wrote.
Tensions had already been running high in the Lower House after Speaker Osbert Frederick ejected Pringle from the chamber during proceedings. The sitting grew further contentious when Pringle delivered a sharply critical assessment of Joseph's parliamentary tenure, departing markedly from the customary tone expected of tribute sessions.
His remarks drew immediate protests from government MPs, with several staging a brief walkout in objection to what they characterised as disrespectful conduct during what should have been a solemn occasion.
Parliamentary tributes are traditionally moments of bipartisan recognition, particularly for long-serving members. Joseph, the MP for St. Mary's North, is retiring after decades in public life, having held multiple senior ministerial positions throughout his career.
The episode has further deepened political tensions between the government and the opposition benches in Parliament.
