The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has called on former chairman Bruce Goodwin to retract what it describes as "false, reckless and malicious" allegations against the Commission, warning that it stands ready to pursue legal action to defend its independence and the integrity of the electoral process.
According to Antigua News Room, ABEC issued a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, rejecting comments Goodwin made during an appearance on Eye on the Issues, hosted by Louisa Tully, in which he questioned the Commission's independence and the legitimacy of the 30 April 2026 General Elections.
"The Commission calls for Mr. Goodwin to retract the statements which are unfounded, irresponsible and damaging," ABEC stated. "The Commission rejects them utterly and will take whatever legal action is necessary to defend its independence, its officers and the integrity of the electoral process."
ABEC characterised the allegations as "grave, wholly unsubstantiated, and entirely devoid of credible evidential foundation," insisting that its policies, systems and operational procedures remain lawful, transparent and institutionally independent.
The Commission flatly denied that it had "been captured by the State," was under partisan control, or maintained any improper links to state apparatus. It labelled any suggestion to the contrary as "false, scandalous and deeply irresponsible."
ABEC also expressed disappointment that the remarks came from a former chairman, noting that Goodwin should appreciate "the constitutional importance of ABEC's independence and the damage that reckless public misinformation can do to public confidence in democratic institutions."
"It is an attack on the integrity of the electoral process itself," the statement added.
The Commission defended the conduct of the Supervisor of Elections, commissioners, staff members and scrutineers, stating they had performed their duties "professionally, honourably and tirelessly."
ABEC further urged that anyone in possession of credible evidence of electoral wrongdoing submit such information to the relevant authorities rather than airing it publicly without proof.
"The dissemination of serious accusations in the public domain, without proof and in a manner calculated to inflame suspicion and disrepute, is a reckless abuse of public commentary and an affront to responsible democratic engagement," the Commission said.
ABEC also pointed to the presence of local, regional and international observer groups during the electoral process, arguing that the transparency of its operations would have been apparent to those missions.
The Commission urged the public to disregard Goodwin's allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to impartiality, legality and transparency in the administration of elections.
