Prime Minister Gaston Browne has pledged a "zero tolerance" approach to crime, using his administration's public safety record as a central campaign message at the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party's manifesto launch ahead of the April 30 general election.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne told supporters that his government had made significant progress in reducing crime since taking office, drawing a sharp contrast with conditions he said existed prior to 2014. He described that earlier period as one marked by "high unemployment, crime and violence, including rampant rapes and disorder in general."
Browne credited his administration with stabilising the situation, stating that it had managed to "bring crime and violence under control" — and that this was achieved "using local talent." He went further, arguing that Antigua and Barbuda now enjoys "one of the safest environments in the region and beyond."
The Prime Minister did not outline detailed policing strategies during that portion of his address. Instead, he framed crime and security within a broader message of stability and continued leadership.
Browne urged voters to weigh who is best equipped to govern amid uncertain global conditions, asking, "Which leader and team is strong enough, steady enough to see our country through?"
He also cautioned against a change in government, warning supporters, "Do not take a risk on a leader and a team that's just not ready."
Browne closed with a direct appeal for continuity, telling the crowd, "Let's keep Antigua and Barbuda in strong and safe hands."
The remarks come as political campaigning intensifies in the final days before the April 30 general election.
