Prime Minister Browne of Antigua and Barbuda secures a fourth term, pledging to foster growth
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda achieved a decisive election victory late on Thursday, securing a fourth term following a campaign focused on economic issues and worries regarding U.S. visa restrictions.
Brown’s Labour Party expanded its majority by securing 15 out of the 17 seats in parliament, based on preliminary official data. The United Progressive Party, regarded as the primary challenger, secured just one seat. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party expressed their gratitude for your support and confidence on social media.
Browne, a 59-year-old former banker and businessman who has been at the helm of the Labour Party since 2014, focused his campaign on economic stability and growth driven by investment, highlighting a recovery in tourism following the pandemic and the expansion of infrastructure.
The political debate was largely shaped by Washington’s January decision to halt visa processing for nationals of Antigua and Barbuda, which significantly impacted locals who frequently travel to the United States for employment.
Washington expressed concerns regarding a program that allows foreigners to obtain citizenship in the Eastern Caribbean twin-island state via investment. Critics argued that criminals could exploit the scheme to gain entry into the United States.
Browne’s administration announced that it is collaborating with the U.S. and has implemented reforms to enhance the robustness and transparency of the Citizenship by Investment Program, aiming to address concerns about potential criminal exploitation and to reassure both domestic and international stakeholders.
Last month, the Labour Party announced a general election, two years earlier than planned, citing the need for a new mandate amid an international crisis. The last parliament had a majority of nine seats.
A second vote count is scheduled for Friday to verify the results of the general election, which has been observed by international monitors.
