Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has praised Antigua and Barbuda's electorate for conducting an exemplary and peaceful general election campaign, declaring that the nation demonstrated a level of democratic maturity rivalling some of the world's most established democracies.
According to Antigua.news, Sir Rodney delivered the remarks during Tuesday's Throne Speech at the ceremonial opening of Parliament, where he congratulated the newly elected administration and all parliamentarians while reflecting on the conduct of the April 30 general election.
"The actions of the entire population during the recent weeks of campaigning by the political parties and independent candidates were nothing short of exemplary," Sir Rodney said.
He emphasised that throughout the four-week campaign period there was "not a single incident of vandalism or violence," describing an atmosphere that upheld the dignity of the nation's democratic traditions.
"The entire four-week experience easily exceeded the dignity and high regard usually attributed to more mature democracies," he stated.
Sir Rodney attributed the peaceful character of the election to the wisdom and political maturity of the Antiguan and Barbudan people, adding simply, "We are a great nation."
The Governor General also acknowledged the significant role played by young voters in shaping the election's outcome, noting that youth participation featured prominently both during the campaign and in the broader vision for the country's future.
"The people of Antigua and Barbuda have spoken and the voice of the people is the voice of God," Sir Rodney declared before members of both Houses of Parliament and invited guests.
The address marked the official opening of a new legislative session, convened following the ruling administration's commanding victory at the polls last month.
