The first Cabinet meeting of the newly re-elected Gaston Browne administration convened on Wednesday, 6th May 2026, following the government's return to office with an increased mandate. No official business was conducted during the session, though several decisions were made and key priorities outlined for the new term.
The meeting opened with the Cabinet Secretary reading from the Book of Isaiah 40:31 — "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles..." — before offering a prayer calling for renewed strength, patience, courage and endurance for the work ahead.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne used the occasion to deliver a strong message of accountability, unity, humility and service. Addressing ministers and Ministers of State, he emphasised that the renewed mandate carries an even greater responsibility to deliver tangible improvements in the lives of citizens and residents.
The Prime Minister outlined the government's core priorities: improving roads, expanding access to reliable water distribution, accelerating housing development, strengthening healthcare and education, and upgrading public infrastructure nationwide. He called on all ministers to demonstrate "stellar and excellent leadership," stating that the administration has the experience and capacity to be remembered as one of the most effective governments in the nation's history.
"The people are looking for results," Prime Minister Browne stated. "We must work with purpose, intensity and discipline to ensure that we continue improving the living standards of our people."
Browne made clear that inefficiency and underperformance will not be tolerated, urging ministers to remain actively engaged with their ministries, constituencies and communities while maintaining regular communication with citizens. He also stressed the importance of humility and grassroots engagement, encouraging all members of the administration to remain accessible to the people who elected them.
Senior members of the administration echoed those sentiments, encouraging younger ministers and parliamentarians to continue developing their leadership, communication and governance skills. The Prime Minister further warned against internal division, reiterating that the administration's strength lies in collective leadership and a shared commitment to national development.
Cabinet discussed strategies to deepen community engagement through more frequent outreach initiatives, constituency meetings and town hall engagements. The Prime Minister also encouraged all members of the administration to prioritise their health and well-being to sustain the energy required for effective governance.
The Cabinet paid tribute to the late Mary-Clare Hurst, honouring her as a devoted public servant, committed Labour Party stalwart and pioneering national figure. Members observed a moment of silence in her memory.
Hurst served as a government senator, Leader and Deputy Leader of Government Business in the Senate, and Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism and Economic Development. She made history as the first woman to serve as General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party and also served as Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, earning wide respect for her professionalism and administrative competence.
Cabinet members acknowledged her passion for mentorship, youth development and public service, noting her role in nurturing young leaders and helping modernise political and public sector institutions. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, the Cabinet announced that the late Mary-Clare Hurst will be accorded an Official Funeral. Condolences were extended to her family, friends, colleagues and supporters.
The Treasury Department issued a comprehensive update on the ongoing disbursement of retroactive salary payments to eligible public sector employees. As of Wednesday, 29th April, payments have been issued to eligible public sector workers across all ministries and departments. The Treasury had been aiming to complete most of the retroactive pay during April 2026, and a further update is scheduled for 15th May.
The Attorney General informed Cabinet of the following upcoming parliamentary dates: On 18th May, the Lower House of Parliament will meet to elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, with members also being sworn in. The government will put forward Osbert Frederick as Speaker and Dr. Philmore Benjamin as Deputy Speaker. On 20th May, the Upper House will meet to elect the President and Deputy President of the Senate, with senators also being sworn in. The government will put forward Alincia Williams-Grant as President and Philip Shoul as Deputy President. On 26th May, His Excellency Governor General Sir Rodney Williams will present the Speech from the Throne.
Prime Minister Browne also informed Cabinet that a Service of Thanksgiving will be held on Sunday, 17th May, at the St. John's Pentecostal Church House.
