Several young professionals are set to be sworn in as senators this morning as the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party moves to finalise its fourth-term government, according to Antigua.news. The ceremony, scheduled for 10 a.m., follows the ABLP's commanding victory in the April 30 general election, in which the party secured 15 of the 17 available parliamentary seats.
Among those expected to take the oath are communications specialist Angelica O'Donoghue, Shaquan O'Niel, and Abena St Luce. The three appointments are seen as part of a broader effort to bring a younger generation of talent into the country's political leadership structure.
The selections appear to reflect a deliberate strategy by Prime Minister Gaston Browne to introduce younger voices and strengthen female representation within the Senate and the wider government.
Browne recently revealed that he had committed to appointing at least one individual in his early twenties to the Upper House. "I had promised to appoint at least one person in the early 20s," he said, describing the appointee as a young man who played a visible and competent role during the election campaign. The Prime Minister confirmed the appointee is a graduate of The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and was actively involved in supporting the party throughout the election season.
Browne also signalled his administration's intention to expand female participation at the parliamentary level. "We are seeking to appoint some females. We're looking for more female talents," he stated.
The Prime Minister further disclosed that one senatorial position remains vacant, as the administration continues discussions surrounding the appointment of another young female candidate.
Today's swearing-in ceremony marks another significant step in the formation of the new government, as Browne embarks on his fourth consecutive term in office following the party's landslide re-election.
