A young first-time voter from Barbuda has penned an open letter calling on her community to move beyond the longstanding land debate and demand broader progress for the island's younger generation, according to Antigua News Room.
The letter, published ahead of the upcoming election, comes from a woman who describes growing up in what she calls an "all green" household — one where land ownership has historically dominated political conversation, particularly during election cycles.
"I am fed up — completely fed up — with the hearsay, the confusion, and especially the endless drama that surrounds this topic," she writes. "Land alone cannot feed us, land alone cannot build a future, and land alone cannot secure the next generation."
The writer argues that while older generations remain locked in familiar political narratives around land, young Barbudans are being left without real opportunities, proper development, or a clear path forward. She notes that several opportunities — including scholarships, the YWIL programme, and Youth Parliament — have been available to her, but that her parents would not allow her to accept anything associated with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.
"There have been so many opportunities that have presented themselves to me, but my parents would have my neck if I dare accept anything from ABLP," she states.
As reported by Antigua News Room, the letter reflects a growing sentiment among Barbuda's youth, who feel that partisan loyalty is coming at a personal cost. The writer urges fellow Barbudans to think beyond politics and focus on health, development, and the legacy being left for future generations.
"Stop settling. Stop being distracted. It is time for a serious, bold change," she concludes. "The future depends on it."
