Politics
1026 articles
ABLP's 2026 Manifesto Projects Confidence as April 30 Election Approaches
The ABLP's 2026 general election manifesto projects the confidence of an assured incumbent, a sharp contrast to the combative tone of its 2023 document, according to Antigua.news. Released on April 20 ahead of the April 30 vote, the 104-page document focuses on continuity and coalition-building rather than sustained attacks on the United Progressive Party.
PM Browne Defends Duty-Free Vehicle Waivers, Open to Codifying Policy in Law
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended his record on duty-free vehicle concessions, saying he has never refused an eligible applicant, and signalled his government's willingness to codify the policy in law. The remarks come amid ongoing debate over the transparency of the discretionary waiver system.
PM Browne Directs Negotiators to Offer Public Workers Maximum Affordable Wage Increase
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has directed the government's negotiating team to offer public sector workers the maximum wage increase the country can afford, as talks with unions continue amid pressure from rising living costs. The government has already implemented a 5% pay increase and is also advancing a livable wage policy targeting a minimum monthly salary of $2,200.
ABLP to Stage Island-Wide 'Red & Reddy' Megacade Ahead of April 30 Election
The ABLP will stage its island-wide 'Red & Reddy' megacade this Sunday, April 26, rolling through communities in a show of political strength just four days before the general election.
Government Pledges No Income Tax and Higher Wages Under 'Renaissance' Agenda
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining no personal income tax and raising the minimum wage to $13 per hour as part of its 'Renaissance' economic agenda. The pledges, made at the ABLP manifesto launch, aim to deliver direct financial relief to households amid rising global inflation.
Sizzla, Destra Set to Headline Free ABLP 'Red & Reddy' Concert Saturday
The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party will host a free concert this Saturday, April 25, headlined by reggae icon Sizzla and soca star Destra, as part of its campaign drive ahead of the April 30 general election.
UWI Five Islands Campus Opens Applications for New Law Degree Programme
UWI Five Islands Campus is now accepting applications for a new Bachelor of Laws programme set to begin in August 2026, with a June 30 deadline. The degree will be offered in partnership with the UWI Mona Campus, enabling students in Antigua and Barbuda to pursue legal education locally.
PM Browne Pushes for Separate $3,000 Minimum Wage for Hotel Workers
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has proposed a separate, higher minimum wage for hotel workers, suggesting a benchmark of $3,000 per month — well above the $2,200 baseline planned for other sectors. Browne cited the industry's reliance on tips and service charges as leaving workers financially vulnerable.
All Saints West Clinic Nears Completion as Election Debate Heats Up
ABLP candidate Anthony Smith Jr. says the All Saints West health clinic will be completed within days, promising expanded services including dental care and a 24-hour pharmacy. The project's timing, just before the April 30 general election, has sparked debate over whether it reflects political priorities or overdue community investment.
St. George Independent Candidate Calls for Executive Accountability Over Constituency Development
Independent St. George candidate Gail Pero-Weston is calling for a structural shift that places responsibility for infrastructure and national development with the executive branch rather than individual MPs. The attorney-at-law made the case ahead of the April 30 general election, framing her campaign around governance reform and long-term accountability.
Parham Courts Reopen After 25 Years as Turner Pledges Continued Service to St. Peter
ABLP candidate Rawdon Turner has celebrated the reopening of Parham's basketball and netball courts after 25 years, calling it a sign of progress while vowing to continue serving the St. Peter constituency ahead of the general election.
PM Browne Urges Voters to Reject 'Untested' Opposition Ahead of April 30 Election
Prime Minister Gaston Browne used the ABLP's manifesto launch to warn voters against supporting the opposition, arguing that global uncertainty demands experienced leadership ahead of the April 30 general election. Browne pointed to his administration's economic record, including repealing personal income tax and raising the minimum wage, as justification for a continued mandate.
Voter ID Replacement Applications Surge to 482 in a Single Week
The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission recorded 482 replacement voter ID card applications in a single week, with 393 processed in one day alone. The surge reflects growing electoral activity as voters prepare for the upcoming general election.
Letter: Alan Weston a True Son of St. Paul's, NSA Funding Claims Addressed
A letter published by Antigua News Room defends St. Paul's political candidate Alan Weston against allegations of outside influence, while raising alarm over the reduced reach of the National Sailing Academy following the collapse of a proposed US $700,000-backed sustainability plan.
PM Browne Questions Pringle's Fitness for Office in Pointed Campaign Address
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has publicly questioned opposition leader Jamale Pringle's ability to represent Antigua and Barbuda internationally, arguing during a campaign address that only experienced, globally credible leadership can steer the country through uncertain times.
Government Launches Rent-to-Own Housing Programme for Families Without Mortgages
Works and Housing Minister Maria Browne has announced a government rent-to-own housing programme aimed at helping families who cannot qualify for traditional mortgages build equity and achieve homeownership. The initiative was unveiled at the ABLP manifesto launch ahead of the April 30 general election.
Fernandez Claims Record 800,000+ Cruise Passengers as Tourism Rebounds
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez announced that Antigua and Barbuda has surpassed 800,000 cruise passenger arrivals this season, calling it evidence of a strong post-pandemic recovery. The figures were revealed at the ABLP manifesto launch ahead of the April 30 general election.
Browne Calls Early Election to Secure Strong Mandate Amid Global Uncertainty
Prime Minister Gaston Browne used the ABLP's manifesto launch to defend the timing of the April 30 general election, arguing that a strong public mandate is essential for Antigua and Barbuda to navigate pressing global challenges. Browne framed the early election as a matter of national clarity rather than political convenience.
PM Browne Champions Women in Politics at ABLP Manifesto Launch Ahead of April 30 Vote
Prime Minister Gaston Browne championed women's political participation at the ABLP manifesto launch, spotlighting female candidates Kiz Johnson and Maria Browne ahead of the April 30 general election. His remarks framed inclusive governance as central to the party's platform as campaigning enters its final stretch.
Antigua Absorbs Fuel Costs as St. Vincent Hikes Electricity Surcharge
The Antigua and Barbuda government is subsidising fuel at roughly $1.67 per gallon and reducing consumption taxes to shield consumers from rising global energy costs, while neighbouring St. Vincent and the Grenadines has raised its electricity fuel surcharge to $0.6650 per kWh for April 2026. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has warned the subsidy approach may not be sustainable if international prices continue to climb.