博客

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.

In a recent interview with ABS Television, the Hon. Maria Browne, Minister for Housing and Works, addressed allegations from the opposition regarding a vehicle procurement issue tied to her ministry. Minister Browne clarified that while 30 vehicles were initially purchased without the required approvals, the oversight was swiftly rectified, and all vehicles were returned upon identification. She emphasized that the Ministry of Works had not violated any protocols and dismissed claims linking the matter to the ongoing Customs and duty-free controversy as baseless and politically driven.

Minister Browne expressed disappointment at the opposition’s attempts to conflate unrelated issues, stating, “It’s very unfortunate that the opposition has sought to twist what was a simple administrative correction. They have tried to tie two unrelated matters together — but there is no truth to those claims.” She reaffirmed her transparency and accountability throughout the process, asserting that she had done nothing wrong and would not resign over false allegations.

The Opposition United Progressive Party has organized protests, motorcades, and public meetings demanding her resignation, but Minister Browne remains steadfast. She encouraged those seeking clarity to request documentation through the Information Commissioner, stating, “We have nothing to hide.”

To prevent future issues, the ministry has implemented stronger auditing and tracking measures, including a comprehensive vehicle audit, labeling government vehicles for easier identification, and ensuring vehicles are allocated to field officers rather than administrative staff. Minister Browne noted that the situation could lead to improved procurement practices across the government, stating, “If this situation strengthens procurement across government and closes loopholes, then the country is better for it.”

Reaffirming her dedication to her constituents, Minister Browne concluded, “I remain focused, I remain committed, and I continue to represent the people of St. John’s Rural East and the nation with honesty and purpose.”