Outgoing St. Mary's North Member of Parliament Sir Molwyn Joseph used his final address in Parliament to firmly reject speculation that he had been forced out of politics, insisting his departure was a personal decision shaped by family priorities and his own reflection on timing.
According to Antigua News Room, Joseph told legislators there was no truth to suggestions that he had been sidelined by the leadership of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party or pushed out by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
"I also want to make something clear — the Prime Minister… did not push me out of Parliament. I know that nonsense is going around," Joseph said.
He described his long-standing relationship with Browne as collaborative and accessible, dismissing any notion of an internal rift between the two men.
"I can say publicly I do not have a problem getting the attention of the prime minister and getting the support of the prime minister — so rubbish nonsense," he added.
Joseph told Parliament that after more than four decades in public life, his decision to step away was grounded in personal reflection and family priorities rather than political pressure.
"I've made a decision on the basis of a balance of who I am right now and the position of my family," he said.
He noted that his family played a decisive role in his choice, and drew laughter from the chamber when he underscored just how persuasive they had been.
"When your wife speaks… and when the wife and the children speak, it's a super majority," Joseph said.
He added that after more than 40 years in politics, his family now expects more of his time and presence. "They have decided that they need more of my time… and the balance of things," he said.
Despite stepping away from parliamentary duties, Joseph made clear he is not withdrawing from political life entirely.
"I ain't going anywhere… I am not in Parliament, but I will be sticking to this party," he said, reaffirming his loyalty to the ruling Labour Party.
His remarks appeared squarely aimed at putting to rest lingering questions about the circumstances of his exit, particularly as the country approaches a general election. By directly addressing the rumours, Joseph sought to frame his retirement on his own terms — as a voluntary transition after a long career, not the result of political maneuvering.
"I've made a decision," he reiterated, insisting his departure reflects personal choice rather than external pressure.
After 42 years in Parliament, Sir Molwyn Joseph leaves office emphasising autonomy, family, and a continued commitment to the political movement he served for decades.
