Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has formally initiated the constitutional process for national elections, announcing to Parliament that he has advised Governor General Sir Rodney Williams to dissolve the legislative body on April 1. This procedural move marks the official commencement of the electoral cycle in the twin-island nation.
The Prime Minister clarified that his recommendation was made under Section 60(1) of the nation’s Constitution, which empowers the Governor General to dissolve Parliament upon receiving advice from the head of government. Browne confirmed he had submitted formal correspondence to the Governor General’s office, triggering the next phase of the democratic process.
In a significant shift from initial planning, the government adjusted its electoral timeline to accommodate opposition parties. While the administration had originally contemplated immediate proroguation of Parliament—which would have enabled elections as early as April 17—the schedule was modified to provide additional preparation time for opposing political factions.
Browne noted in parliamentary address that opposition parties demonstrated insufficient readiness, particularly regarding candidate selection. ‘It’s evident the opposition is not quite ready as yet… they still do not have a full slate,’ the Prime Minister stated, adding that government colleagues had encouraged allowing ‘a few more days’ for preparedness.
Under the revised arrangement, Parliament will be formally dissolved by proclamation on April 1. The writ of election is anticipated to be issued either on that date or within the subsequent week, contingent upon the opposition’s final preparations. Once the writ is officially issued, constitutional mandates require that general elections be conducted within a 21-day timeframe, suggesting a probable late April election date.
The Prime Minister emphasized that additional flexibility would be limited: ‘We will not give the members on the other side more than an additional week.’ Further correspondence will be dispatched to the Governor General detailing the finalized timeline, including nomination day procedures and the official election date.
This development signals the formal activation of campaign preparations across Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape, with parties expected to finalize candidate lists and campaign strategies in the coming weeks.