Prime Minister Gaston Browne has accused opposition figures Jamale Pringle and Harold Lovell of being linked to the distribution of what he described as "clandestine" pro-LGBTQ campaign material, as the country's general election campaign intensifies.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the allegation in a social media post on Friday, writing: "Comrade Washie, Stansha et al; look at what Pringle and Lovell are circulating clandestinely. Calling upon all ma LGBTQIA peeps to drive your vote in dem neck on Election Day."
The post featured a brightly coloured graphic depicting two men kissing, styled to resemble Browne and Kendra Beazer. The image appears to be digitally created rather than an actual photograph.
Set against a rainbow backdrop with heart symbols, the graphic carries the slogans "LOVE & UNITY BRING US TOGETHER" and "Make Room for Everyone in Barbuda." Additional text promotes support for same-sex marriage in churches and calls for unity "as one family under God," concluding with the line: "Barbuda welcome everyone, all a we is family!"
Browne did not provide evidence in the post to support his claim that the material originated from or was being distributed by the named opposition figures. Neither Pringle nor Lovell issued an immediate response to the allegation.
It remains unclear who created the image or how widely it has circulated beyond social media platforms.
The development comes as campaigning intensifies ahead of the election, with political parties working to mobilise support across key voter groups. LGBTQ rights, including the question of same-sex marriage, remain a sensitive issue in Antigua and Barbuda, where public opinion is divided and political figures have historically approached the topic with caution.
