Prime Minister Gaston Browne has declared that a national political shift is placing nearly every opposition-held seat on Antigua within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party's reach, according to Antigua News Room.
"There is a national swing that puts nearly every UPP seat on Antigua within reach," Browne said during his weekly Browne and Browne radio programme.
The prime minister pointed to polling data he says demonstrates a commanding Labour advantage, with the ruling party holding 49 percent support compared to 26 percent for the United Progressive Party.
"Both polls — our internal polling and theirs — are showing the same thing, that there is a significant decline in support for the UPP," Browne said.
Browne also cited leadership approval ratings, claiming he holds 59 percent support against just 15 percent for Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle. "I lead Pringle 59 percent to 15 percent in terms of leadership support," he said.
The prime minister went further, arguing that the UPP's standing has been weakened by its recent conduct in Parliament and suggesting that internal consequences could follow for Pringle. "Poor polling and the conduct in Parliament could very well cost Pringle his leadership," Browne said.
The remarks come as campaigning intensifies ahead of an anticipated general election, with both major parties actively positioning themselves for what is expected to be a closely watched contest.
