The political landscape in St. Philip’s North, Antigua and Barbuda, witnessed significant developments on Wednesday as rival parties formally nominated their candidates for the upcoming parliamentary by-election. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) secured Randy Baltimore as their official contender, while the United Progressive Party (UPP) advanced Alex Browne as their representative in what promises to be a fiercely contested race.
The nomination proceedings unfolded at Willikies Primary School, transforming into a vibrant display of political mobilization. Both candidates arrived accompanied by substantial delegations of enthusiastic supporters, creating an atmosphere charged with competitive energy ahead of the March 16th poll.
Mr. Baltimore, a former senior customs official, enters the political arena as the ABLP’s designated successor to Sir Robin Yearwood, who recently concluded an extraordinary 50-year parliamentary tenure. Baltimore’s nomination formalities were witnessed by prominent party figures and local constituents, marking his official entry into electoral politics.
His opponent, Mr. Browne, the UPP’s designated standard bearer for the constituency, similarly demonstrated considerable grassroots backing as he arrived to complete his nomination paperwork. The simultaneous show of force from both camps signals the strategic importance both parties attribute to this eastern corridor constituency.
The vacancy emerged following the historic retirement of Sir Robin Yearwood, whose five decades of continuous service established a remarkable political legacy. According to Electoral Commission regulations, all candidates must fulfill specific requirements including nomination papers endorsed by a proposer, seconder, and eight additional registered electors from the constituency, accompanied by a $500 EC filing fee.
The converging of these political forces sets the stage for an intensive three-week campaign period, with voters preparing to determine their new parliamentary representative on the established Polling Day of March 16.