Antigua and Barbuda is in mourning following the passing of Sir Gerald Watt KC, former Attorney General and Speaker of the House of Representatives, who died on Saturday at the age of 86 while receiving medical care.

Sir Gerald dedicated decades of his life to public service, earning widespread respect across the legal, political, and civic spheres. Over his distinguished career, he held several of the country’s most senior and influential positions, including Attorney General, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association, and Speaker of the House of Representatives.

He served as Speaker for ten years before resigning from the post in 2024. During that time, Sir Gerald was known for his authoritative grasp of parliamentary procedure and his commitment to fairness, order, and democratic governance within the House.

​A highly respected legal practitioner, Sir Gerald was regarded as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s foremost legal minds. He was Head of Chambers at Watt, Dorsett, Hewlett Law, where he played a pivotal role in mentoring younger attorneys and shaping the development of the legal profession. Partner Dr. David Dorsett paid tribute to him, describing Sir Gerald as “one of a kind.”

News of his passing has deeply affected the legal fraternity and the wider national community, with many reflecting on his immense contribution to the rule of law and public life.

Sir Gerald would have celebrated his 87th birthday on December 19. Tributes are expected to continue as the nation honors the life, service, and legacy of a man whose influence will long be felt in Antigua and Barbuda.