The United Progressive Party (UPP) again places on record its objection to the appointment of attorney Arthur Thomas as chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC).
On January 24, the Party stated its reasons for the objection, foremost among them questions about Thomas’ integrity in the wake of his two recent resignations.
On account of his association with Sam Bankman-Fried, the convicted founder of the failed cryptocurrency giant FTX, Mr. Thomas has had to resign his positions with the Caribbean Union Bank (CUB) and the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission.
Accordingly, the UPP asks again: “If his connection to these entities was enough for him to resign, why should he head the body charged with safeguarding the practice of fair elections?”
The Party insists that the position at ABEC demands not only personal integrity but the ability to engender the trust of the Nation. And given the recent events – as well as the upcoming trial of Mr. Bankman-Fried on matters involving his foreign holdings – this is not the time and Mr. Thomas is not the man.
Political Leader Jamale Pringle notes that the late John Jarvis, the former ABEC chairman, enjoyed the respect and esteem of a wide cross-section of the society. However, at this point in Thomas’ career, the same cannot be said of the attorney.
The Leadership of the United Progressive Party says it will continue to object – in all national, regional and international forums – to Mr. Thomas’ appointment.
It also appeals to Thomas, himself, in the interest of preserving the integrity of the office and in fostering public trust in ABEC, to decline this appointment.
