ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Prime Minister Gaston Browne made political history as his Antigua and Barbuda Labor Party captured a record-breaking fourth straight term in office during an early election that devastated opposition representation in the Caribbean nation’s parliament.
Election results announced early Friday morning revealed a sweeping victory that sent jubilant party supporters into the streets to celebrate the overwhelming win.
Browne’s ABLP dominated the contest by claiming 15 out of 17 available parliamentary positions in the twin-island Caribbean country. The main opposition United Progressive Party suffered a crushing defeat, dropping from five seats to just one, with only Jamale Pringle surviving the electoral rout. Independent candidate Trevor Walker of the Barbuda People’s Movement also secured a seat, continuing his winning streak in every election since 2004 except for 2014.
The early election was called two years before required by the constitution, with campaign discussions centered around increasing living expenses and plans for improving the nation’s infrastructure.
“We will build one nation united and inclusive where all who are willing to come together under the banner of one Antigua and Barbuda will share in the reward of their efforts,” Browne told ABLP supporters.
Voting officials praised how smoothly the election process went, reporting that ballot locations throughout both islands functioned without major problems.
Browne and Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin are scheduled for swearing-in ceremonies Friday morning, with additional cabinet appointments to be announced over the next several days.
