Newly appointed Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle says the United Progressive Party (UPP) is preparing to rebuild and mount a more forceful challenge following the party's defeat in Antigua and Barbuda's April 30 general election.
According to Antigua News Room, Pringle made the remarks to ABS Television shortly after receiving his instruments of appointment at Government House on Monday. He said the UPP intends to adopt a stronger and more aggressive approach in Parliament as it works to regain public confidence.
"We have to build the confidence of the people," Pringle said. "Under my leadership, as Leader of the Opposition and as leader of the party, I will ensure that we regroup and come with force to gain the trust of the public of Antigua and Barbuda."
Pringle, formally appointed by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams earlier in the day, said he felt "humbled" and "elated" to once again assume the constitutional role. He pledged that the public could expect "representation with a greater force" — one that is "more aggressive" and "assertive" in the coming parliamentary term.
"Representation that is more aggressive, representation that they deserve," he stated.
Pringle also suggested his second stint as Opposition Leader would differ markedly from his first. He previously assumed the role following the 2018 general election, entering Parliament as a first-time member while simultaneously shouldering the responsibilities of leading the opposition.
"When I started in 2018, I was literally a rookie," he said. "My first time ever being in the House of Parliament, more so to be Leader of the Opposition with such great responsibility."
He said that experience fostered significant political and personal growth. "I embraced it. I would have grown from strength to strength with the support of the people of Antigua and Barbuda and I intend to continue to do more with the support of the people."
Pringle also addressed the rationale behind the UPP's Senate appointments, saying the party sought to balance fresh perspectives with experience and institutional knowledge.
"Generally, we need to bring new people to the fore as well as maintain some experience," he explained.
He highlighted newly appointed Senator Chester Hughes as a particularly important addition, citing Hughes' history of labour advocacy and his parliamentary track record. "He has been an advocate for the working class. He has been a force to be reckoned with in Parliament," Pringle said.
The Opposition Leader expressed confidence that the combination of youth, experience and intellect among the new senators would produce a strong upper chamber presence. "I think with the new faces, with the experience, the intellect, the wisdom, the Senate will be just as strong as the lower house," he said.
Pringle congratulated all four opposition senators and thanked them for their commitment to keeping the party active following the election. "I just want again to say congratulations to all the senators appointed and also to express my gratitude to them for putting their efforts in, ensuring that the United Progressive Party remains vibrant," he said.
The UPP's Senate opposition team now includes Ashworth Azille, Jonathan Wehner and Chester Hughes. Senator-designate Malaka Parker is expected to be sworn in at a later date, having missed Monday's ceremony due to travel.
