The Gaston Browne administration has pushed back against suggestions that recently announced policy measures are designed to court voters ahead of general elections, insisting they reflect a consistent record of governance dating back to 2014.
According to Antigua News Room, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant addressed the matter during Thursday's post-Cabinet briefing, dismissing concerns that the heightened visibility of government projects and initiatives could be perceived as electoral inducements.
"Inducement — the Gaston Browne administration has a track record of working for the people of Antigua and Barbuda," Merchant said. "There is no one who can criticize this government for the plans and policies that it has implemented thus far."
Merchant maintained that the current measures are consistent with policies pursued since the administration first took office and are not tied to the election cycle. "You would see the trend of the administration has been just that… it just so happens that now is the time for an election," he said.
He also pointed to global pressures — including ongoing international conflicts and economic volatility — as driving factors behind recent government interventions, arguing they are aimed at shielding citizens from wider economic turbulence. "These policies and decisions are being implemented… in line with what the government has been doing over the years," Merchant added.
The remarks come as Antigua and Barbuda formally enters the election period following the dissolution of Parliament. General elections are expected to be held within 90 days.
