Less than a month after Antigua and Barbuda held its general election on April 30, the first formal sitting of the nation’s newly constituted House of Representatives convened on Monday to confirm key leadership positions for the incoming legislative term. In a unanimous, opposition-free vote, St. Mary’s North Member of Parliament Philmore Benjamin secured the post of Deputy Speaker of the Lower House. Benjamin brings a rare dual background to the role: he is both a seasoned veteran of parliamentary work and a practicing medical doctor, a combination that has positioned him as a well-respected figure across the political spectrum. Alongside Benjamin’s confirmation, Osbert Frederick was also re-elected unopposed to retain his position as Speaker of the House. Monday’s inaugural sitting marked a key procedural step ahead of the official ceremonial opening of Parliament, which is scheduled to take place on May 26. During that high-profile event, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams will deliver the traditional Throne Speech, laying out the incoming government’s full policy and legislative agenda for the new parliamentary session. The smooth, unopposed election of both top House leadership positions signals a largely unified opening to the new legislative term following the April general election.
Dr. Philmore Benjamin Elected Unopposed as Deputy Speaker of the House
