Opposition Member of Parliament Sherfield Bowen has leveled serious allegations against the government, claiming that the economic figures presented in the 2026 Throne Speech are inaccurate and misleading. Speaking at a United Progressive Party town hall meeting, Bowen argued that the data cited in the speech does not align with World Bank statistics and misrepresents the true economic state of Antigua and Barbuda.
Bowen specifically challenged the government’s claim that the country’s GDP in 2000 was valued at US $802 million, stating that World Bank records show the nominal GDP for that year exceeded US $900 million, with an inflation-adjusted figure of approximately US $1.19 billion. ‘Where do you get 800,000 from those two numbers?’ he questioned, highlighting the discrepancy.
He also disputed the government’s assertion of a 300 percent GDP growth over the past 25 years, asserting that the actual increase, when adjusted for inflation, is closer to 40 percent. Bowen accused the administration of manipulating historical data to create a narrative of economic progress.
Additionally, Bowen criticized the Throne Speech’s claim that per capita income has reached US $60,000, calling it unrealistic for most working households. He pointed out that a significant portion of the national workforce is employed by the government, with more than half earning less than $3,000 monthly. He emphasized that only a small elite, approximately 153 individuals, earn exceptionally high incomes, which skews national averages.
‘The real, real, real people in Antigua are suffering,’ Bowen stated, arguing that the country’s economic indicators are being artificially inflated by a privileged few while the majority of residents face financial hardship. He urged the public to scrutinize official data and demand greater transparency and accuracy from the government.