Prime Minister Gaston Browne is strongly advocating for the promotion of Superintendent Louisa Benjamin Quashie to the position of Deputy Commissioner of Police, describing her as a highly capable officer who has more than earned her place among the top ranks of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.

Browne, speaking candidly about the matter, revealed that this is the first time he has directly intervened in the selection of a senior police appointment — a move he said is necessary to correct what he perceives as unfairness and political bias within the promotion process.

“The Police Service Commission is being urged to do the right thing,” Browne said. “Superintendent Quashie has demonstrated outstanding leadership, discipline, and competence. I will not sign off on any appointment to Deputy Police Commissioner unless she is the one promoted.”

If approved, Superintendent Quashie would become one of the youngest — and possibly the first woman — to hold the post in the country’s history, marking a significant milestone for gender representation and modern leadership within the force.

Currently serving as Commandant of the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy, Quashie has been widely credited for reforming training programs, improving discipline, and introducing modern policing methods.

Prime Minister Browne praised her record, calling her “a model of professionalism and excellence in law enforcement,” and said her promotion would reflect a merit-based system rather than one clouded by internal politics or favoritism.