Antigua and Barbuda has established a formal framework governing the use of official titles and honorific styles following the issuance of a Vice-Regal Warrant by Governor-General His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams. According to Antigua.news, the warrant was dated December 10, 2025, and was issued under the authority vested in the Governor-General by the Constitution, bearing the countersignature of Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
The new rules create a structured system for the granting and use of appellations and styles across the country, providing clear guidelines for recognizing constitutional officeholders and distinguished individuals while promoting consistency and dignity in national protocol.
Under the warrant's provisions, the style "The Right Honourable" is conferred for life upon the Governor-General and all former Governors-General. Prime Ministers become eligible for the designation upon commencing their fourth term in office, whether those terms are consecutive or not. Former Prime Ministers who have served no fewer than four terms are similarly entitled. Members of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council are likewise entitled to use the style for life.
The warrant further empowers the Governor-General, acting by warrant and with the countersignature of the Prime Minister, to bestow the style "The Right Honourable" upon former Prime Ministers and other distinguished individuals deemed deserving of the honour.
The style "The Honourable" is granted to all Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives for the duration of their tenure. The Governor-General may also authorize former parliamentarians and other distinguished persons to retain the style for life through a special warrant. Individuals who are members of the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC) are additionally entitled to use the style "The Honourable."
The style "Excellency" has been reserved exclusively for the Governor-General, the spouse of the Governor-General, and Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassadors and High Commissioners. That designation, however, applies only while those individuals remain in office.
The warrant also provides that the Governor-General and successors retain the authority to amend, interpret, augment, or revoke the rules through future warrants issued under the Governor-General's hand and seal and countersigned by the Prime Minister.
The establishment of the new framework represents a significant step in codifying national protocol and setting clear standards for recognizing service, achievement, and constitutional office in Antigua and Barbuda. The system aligns the country's official styles and appellations with longstanding Commonwealth traditions while reflecting the nation's own constitutional and national circumstances.
