The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has issued a forceful rebuttal against allegations made by former ABEC Chairman Bruce Goodwin, describing his statements as "false, reckless and malicious." According to Antigua News Room, Goodwin made the claims on the programme Eye on the Issues, hosted by Louisa Tully, where he questioned the independence of the Commission and the legitimacy of the General Elections held on 30 April 2026.
ABEC dismissed the allegations as "grave, wholly unsubstantiated, and entirely devoid of credible evidential foundation," calling for them to be rejected in their entirety.
The Commission stated unambiguously that its policies, systems and operational procedures are lawful, transparent and institutionally independent. It denied any link to State apparatus for improper purposes, and rejected outright any suggestion of partisan control or State capture.
ABEC expressed particular disappointment that the allegations originated from a former Commission chairman. "A person who ought to understand both the constitutional importance of ABEC's independence and the damage that reckless public misinformation can do to public confidence in democratic institutions," the Commission stated, adding that such commentary amounts to "an attack on the integrity of the electoral process itself."
The Commission further noted that its conduct and decision-making processes had been observed and verified by local, regional and international observer groups during the last elections, and that its work had been found to be transparent and clean.
ABEC also rejected what it called "offensive imputations" cast upon the Supervisor of Elections, Commissioners and staff members, stating that these individuals have served professionally and honourably and are entitled to have their reputations protected against falsehood and politically charged misrepresentation.
The Commission issued a clear directive: anyone holding credible evidence of electoral wrongdoing should present it to the competent authority, rather than disseminating unproven accusations in the public domain in a manner calculated to inflame suspicion.
ABEC called on the public to disregard Goodwin's allegations and cautioned against mistaking "noise, repetition and provocation for proof." The Commission demanded that Goodwin retract his statements and warned that it will pursue whatever legal action is necessary to defend its independence, its officers and the integrity of the electoral process.
