Antigua’s choice: Stay the course or switch gears

Voters in Antigua and Barbuda head to the polls today, Thursday April 30, to decide whether to give the governing Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) a fourth consecutive term or return the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) to power.

The ABLP has been in power since 2014. Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, has led the party throughout. They repeated victories in 2018 and again in |

2023. The next elections were not due until early 2028.

This time, Browne and the ABLP called a snap poll. They aimed to capitalize on infighting in the UPP. Prime Minister Mia Mottley did something similar to the main opposition in Barbados. She splintered the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) in early February, sweeping all 30 parliamentary seats for the third straight time.

The ABLP is entering the race holding 10 of the 17 seats. Critics say party leaders know voters are unhappy about the U.S. move to suspend visa rights for federation citizens and those in neighbouring Dominica, starting in 2026. The UPP held power for two terms until 2014.

The visa issue is a top campaign theme. Allegations have surfaced that Browne and several associates may soon lose their US visas. Critics claim the alleged reason is transgressing U.S. rules and having ties to deposed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro is in a U.S. jail, facing charges for alleged international drug trafficking.

UPP leader Jamale Pringle, has told the estimated 60,000 eligible voters that he and his party will restore visa rights to ordinary citizens, a promise that triggered swift condemnation from the foreign ministry. The ministry argued that no local politician has any control over the U.S. visa system.

“The foreign ministry regards the circulation of this claim as political mischief, intended to mislead the public and to create unnecessary concern during the current election period. The government of Antigua and Barbuda and the government of the U.S. continue to maintain a constructive and collaborative working relationship, including on matters related to visas and consular affairs, as well as on broader issues of mutual interest,” the statement noted.

Critics say the federation and cabinet are being punished by the State Department over questions about the controversial passport sale scheme (CIP). The scheme allows foreigners to invest as little as $100,000 for a passport and citizenship. The U.S. and other Western nations have criticized this method, arguing that people with dubious backgrounds have used it to obtain local passports. Travellers then visit dozens of countries, which allow Antiguans visa-free entry.

When he recently announced the election date, PM Browne also promised a holiday on Friday, but it remains unclear which set of party supporters will enjoy the day to celebrate victory. ( Caribbean Life)