The United Progressive Party (UPP) has launched its 2026 campaign website, unveiling an expanded manifesto platform that includes a dedicated Diaspora Affairs portfolio, annual business grants of $20,000, and a programme to distribute 2,000 land plots to young citizens.
The digital launch comes as the opposition party intensifies its campaign ahead of the April 30 General Election. Political Leader Jamale Pringle used the platform to present what the party describes as a comprehensive blueprint for the country.
"It gives me great pleasure to present to you the United Progressive Party's pillars, 2026, which we hope will inform your decision on April 30, General Election Day and guide our promise of a government that works for you," Pringle said in his message on the site.
The website consolidates the party's fifteen-pillar People's Platform alongside additional commitments aimed at nationals both at home and abroad.
Among the proposals, the UPP pledges to establish a Diaspora Affairs portfolio housed within the Office of the Prime Minister, creating what the party describes as a one-stop shop for nationals living abroad. The platform also commits to partnering with stakeholders to develop a Retirement Village and reestablishing the Independence Homecoming Festival.
On economic development, the party is proposing five annual grants of $20,000 for competitive business ideas, alongside the revival and recapitalisation of the Antigua and Barbuda Development Bank. The UPP also commits to convening the Chamber of Commerce and Employers Federation within the first seven working days of taking office for a week of consultations with industry leaders.
The party has set a target of reducing youth unemployment to below 10 percent by the end of its first term. The platform also calls for the repeal of the Entertainment Tax. In 2024, the government amended the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) Act, subjecting ticketed events, paid-entrance venues, and club and bar events to a 17 percent ABST rate.
On constitutional reform, the UPP is proposing changes to allow nationals holding dual citizenship to seek electoral office, the introduction of fixed-date five-year electoral terms, and legislation guaranteeing public servants the right to return to their posts following unsuccessful bids for elected office.
The youth land distribution programme targets citizens aged 35 and under, with 2,000 plots to be allocated during the party's first term if elected to office.
