PM Browne Pledges Equal Treatment for All, Including on Sexuality, as New Term Begins

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has used his election night victory speech and his swearing-in address to reaffirm a firm commitment to non-discrimination, explicitly stating that government must serve all citizens regardless of sexual orientation.

According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the remarks following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party's landslide victory in the April 30 general election, which secured him a fourth consecutive term in office.

Speaking on election night, Browne declared that participation in national development would be open to all, "notwithstanding their socioeconomic standing, notwithstanding their political affiliation, notwithstanding his sexuality." He framed the moment as an opportunity to unify the country following a contentious campaign, pledging that his administration would work to "literally lift every single person in every community."

The prime minister returned to the theme the following day during his swearing-in ceremony, linking the principle of inclusivity directly to the conduct of government officials. He warned those appointed to serve that they are expected "not to discriminate against anyone" and "not to divide the country."

Browne also cast the principle in broader philosophical terms, declaring, "This country is our mother. She does not discriminate among her children. And neither should we."

In both addresses, Browne emphasised that the government's mandate must be exercised without bias, promising that public resources and services would be distributed equitably across all communities. "Housing, roads, water, healthcare — will reach every community without discrimination," he said.

He also sought to reassure voters that political differences would not affect access to government support. "Notwithstanding your political persuasion… we are here to serve all the people of Antigua and Barbuda," he stated.

Browne further pledged accountability within his administration, warning that any breach of public trust would not be tolerated. "The trust of the people is sacred… it must never be taken for granted and it will not be abused," he said.

The repeated references to inclusion — among them an explicit mention of sexuality — represent one of the clearest public statements by Browne on non-discrimination as his government embarks on a new term.