Lovell: Return has been “overwhelmingly positive”

Former United Progressive Party (UPP) leader Harold Lovell says the reaction to his political comeback has been “overwhelmingly positive,” just days after confirming he will contest the All Saints West constituency in the next general election.

Lovell, who stepped away from frontline politics in January 2023, announced his return on August 7 during a meeting of the All Saints West branch. The decision came after caretaker Barbara Coates offered to step aside and formally requested that Lovell take her place, a proposal that received unanimous endorsement from branch members, UPP Political Leader Jamale Pringle, and other senior party figures.

“I am gratified, and I’m humbled at the same time because the feedback that I’ve received and the many WhatsApp messages have really been very, very encouraging. I’m just happy to be in a position where I can offer myself for service once again.” Lovell Stated

Lovell dismissed suggestions that Coates’ removal was part of a political coup, insisting the transition was initiated by her.

“So, I believe we’ve clarified that this was a matter where Barbara herself approached me. The letter is there and I’m happy that she took the trouble to do that. So, she would have approached me not just in words but in writing and there was also a letter of endorsement from the branch and so when she presented to me the firm request that I changed my mind, she did so in a very comprehensive way and it was a long road to yes as you’ve heard me say but eventually it was impossible for me to say no but I had no burning desire I mean to oust Barbara by any means at all. My desire on the other hand was to support Barbara. In fact, I have been going out with Barbara. I have been canvassing with Barbara. I have been endorsing her, recommending her. I think she’s an excellent candidate. I think she’s a wonderful human being and so I had no desire at all to do so. So, that’s completely misdirected, misconceived and mischievous,” Lovell declared.

Coates confirmed Lovell’s account, explaining that her decision followed consultations with her executive and campaign team. She said the former UPP leader, a long-time All Saints West resident, was well-placed to challenge incumbent Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith, a former UPP member now with the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.

Lovell, who narrowly lost the St John’s City East seat to the ABLP’s Melford Nicholas by four votes in the last election, said he had been under steady pressure from constituents to return. After months of reflection, he decided to accept Coates’ request.