A six-member observer team from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has declared that Antigua and Barbuda's April 30, 2026 general elections were conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, with voters able to freely exercise their democratic rights.
According to Antigua News Room, the CARICOM Election Observation Mission was led by Chief of Mission Maxine McClean and deployed at the invitation of the government through CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett. The team comprised electoral experts from Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
Observers arrived between April 23 and April 27 and held consultations with a broad cross-section of stakeholders, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, opposition leader Jamale Pringle, media representatives, police officials and election authorities. These engagements were aimed at assessing the country's electoral preparedness and the general political climate ahead of voting day.
On Election Day, the mission deployed teams across 16 of the country's 17 constituencies, visiting 182 of 185 polling stations. Observers reported that polling stations opened on time at 6:00 a.m., with election materials delivered promptly and staff present and prepared.
The mission noted a visible police presence at polling stations, describing officers as professional in their interactions. Polling agents from political parties were present throughout, and official notices were clearly displayed. Voting proceeded in a calm and orderly fashion, with early morning and late evening hours recording the highest voter turnout.
Voter lists were prominently posted at polling stations, and information clerks were on hand to assist electors. Staff were observed to be courteous and adequately trained, providing impartial guidance and making special provisions for elderly and disabled voters.
Observers also monitored the close of polls at 6:00 p.m. While most stations reported no queues at closing time, those voters still in line were permitted to cast their ballots in accordance with regulations. The counting process was carried out transparently, with ballot boxes sealed, transported and opened in the presence of polling agents and observers.
In its overall assessment, the mission concluded that the electoral process was conducted in line with established procedures and guidelines. It commended polling staff for their professionalism and recognised the role of law enforcement in maintaining order throughout the day.
The CARICOM Election Observation Mission also extended congratulations to the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, political parties and their supporters for contributing to a peaceful election environment.
The statement represents an interim assessment, with a final report expected in the coming weeks. CARICOM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Antigua and Barbuda's democratic development and continued progress.
