Prime Minister Gaston Browne is actively seeking a young person in their 20s for appointment to the Senate, framing the move as part of a deliberate succession planning effort within his administration and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the announcement on the Browne and Browne Show, where he said he is monitoring the political landscape for emerging talent to fill roles in both the Upper House and on statutory boards.
"I'm hoping, for example, that I can find someone in their 20s… to put in the upper house as a senator," Browne said.
The Prime Minister stressed that such appointments would be merit-based, with candidates assessed on their current contributions rather than past loyalty to the party.
"I'm asking the youth to step up… let's see what you're made of," he added.
Browne described the initiative as part of a broader strategy to ensure continuity in governance and to build on the gains his administration has achieved. He pointed to a reduction in the average age of candidates as evidence that the transition toward younger leadership is already underway.
"There's also a renaissance taking place within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party itself, as we seek to attract new talent, younger talent, and to ensure leadership continuity," Browne said.
The Prime Minister argued that developing the next generation of leaders is essential to sustaining the country's social and economic progress, and that future leaders must be equipped to advance that agenda.
Senate and board appointments are expected to follow the upcoming general election.
