Prime Minister Gaston Browne pledged to “work harder” for the people of Antigua and Barbuda as he began his unprecedented fourth consecutive term in office, promising unrelenting efforts to improve living standards and unite the country.
“I give you a commitment that I will work harder… that I will do all in my power to continue to work unrelentingly to advance the living standards of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” Browne said following his swearing-in ceremony on Friday.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came after his Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) secured a commanding 15–2 victory in Thursday’s general elections, a result he described as “extremely humbling” and one that has strengthened his resolve to serve.
Reflecting on the outcome, Browne said voters had delivered a clear message by rejecting what he called misinformation and false narratives during the campaign.“You have spoken with clarity… you have spoken with truth,” he said, adding that the spread of misinformation had the potential to damage the country’s reputation beyond its shores.
He expressed hope that the election result would usher in a more civil political environment, urging politicians on both sides to “stand on the truth” and show greater loyalty to the state.
At the same time, Browne called on the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) to reform, saying the country benefits from a strong and competent opposition capable of holding the government accountable.
“We want a strong opposition… individuals who have the competence to continue to hold us accountable,” he said.
A central theme of Browne’s address was national unity, with the Prime Minister calling on citizens—including those who did not support his party—to contribute to nation-building.
“This is a great opportunity for us to unite our nation… and to lift every single person in every community,” he said.
He reaffirmed that his administration would take an inclusive approach to governance, insisting that opportunities will not be limited by political affiliation, background, or social standing.
“We are an inclusive organisation… anyone who wishes to make a contribution to nation building should have the opportunity to do so,” Browne said.Browne also used the platform to address governance, promising that the trust placed in his administration would not be betrayed.
“I want to reassure you that that trust will not be betrayed,” he said, adding that he would personally ensure that members of his Cabinet serve with integrity.
He warned that misconduct would not be tolerated, outlining clear expectations for public officials.
“They’ll be appointed exclusively to serve the people… not to discriminate, not to divide the country, not to steal public resources, but to be good stewards,” Browne said.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined a broad development agenda that includes strengthening infrastructure, improving environmental conditions, and enhancing the country’s cultural and social fabric.
He called on citizens to take pride in their surroundings and actively contribute to national progress, invoking the idea of a collective effort toward what he described as a “Caribbean Renaissance.”
“Each of us now has to ask ourselves what we can do for our country, not what our country can do for us,” he said, echoing the words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Browne added that Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself to become “the epicenter of a Caribbean Renaissance” and a model for regional development.
The Prime Minister also placed strong emphasis on individual responsibility, urging citizens to seize opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, and skills training.
“We have the University of the West Indies Five Islands, we have training programmes… seize the opportunities,” he said.
He pointed to initiatives such as access to land for Airbnb development and funding through national programmes, warning that failure to act could allow others from outside the country to benefit instead.
“The last thing I want to know is that you’re left behind… we’re creating these opportunities primarily for you,” Browne said.
Browne also signaled a shift in tone, acknowledging that his past rhetoric may have offended some and promising to be “more responsible” in his public statements going forward.
“I do love all our people… and I will continue to fight for you,” he said.
The Prime Minister concluded by thanking voters for their support and reaffirming his commitment to serve.
“I will never betray your trust… and my team and I will work unrelentingly and exclusively for your advancement,” Browne said.
His remarks set the tone for what is expected to be an ambitious new term, backed by a strong parliamentary majority and a renewed mandate from the electorate.
