In a landmark outcome that has reshaped the political landscape of the Eastern Caribbean, Gaston Browne and his ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) have secured a historic fourth consecutive term in office, following a decisive landslide victory in the country’s general election. Preliminary vote counts confirm the scale of ABLP’s triumph, with the party claiming 15 of the 17 contested parliamentary seats — a dramatic expansion of its narrow 9-7 majority won in the 2023 January polls.
This unprecedented win cements Browne’s place in Antigua and Barbuda’s political history: he is the first prime minister of the nation to secure four straight general election victories since the country gained independence. The main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) was left with only a single seat, which will be retained by party leader Jamale Pringle. On the island of Barbuda, the Barbuda People’s Movement held onto its local seat, with incumbent Trevor Walker retaining his position.
Following the confirmation of the results, Mark Golding, Opposition Leader of neighboring Jamaica, issued a formal statement of congratulations shared via the social platform X. Golding extended warm wishes to both Browne and the entire ABLP for their successful campaign, noting that Browne’s return to office — a post he has held since first assuming leadership in 2014 — is a clear reflection of the ongoing trust and confidence the people of Antigua and Barbuda place in his leadership. Golding also shared his expectation of productive collaborative work with Browne’s new administration in the coming term, concluding his statement by wishing the incoming government success in delivering on its new mandate.