Political analyst Peter Wickham
An early general election in Antigua and Barbuda is unlikely, according to regional pollster Peter Wickham, who predicts voting will take place toward the end of 2026 or early 2027.
Responding to questions from Antigua.news, Wickham said a strategically timed election after major political events — including a regional summit — could favour the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).
“My expectation is that you’re looking at a December 2026 or January 2027 election,” he said. The ABLP currently holds a narrow majority following the 2023 general election, when it won nine out of 17 seats.
Wickham said the party’s position could be bolstered by political momentum and economic activity generated by national and regional engagements.
Despite speculation of a possible snap election, Wickham said Prime Minister Gaston Browne will likely wait until favourable conditions materialize later in the term.
Lol . Antigua cannot go into elections now with all that mele.
This makes sense. Elections are always about timing, and no Prime Minister is going to call one unless the conditions clearly favour them. Waiting until late 2026 gives the government time to strengthen its position.
Waiting makes sense. Let the country see the results of policies and projects before asking people to vote again.
If the government is confident in its performance, there’s no reason to call a snap election. Let the full term play out.
lol Gaston had just better hope that there isn’t a movement for Sudan between now and then. Because if Antigua starts paying attention to geopolitics, he’ll be out of a career. There’s only so much evil you can get away with in the 21st century.
Election will be when ever it will be. Why rush it? The PM is a strategic man. He knows what he’s doing
Nine seats out of 17 is a slim margin. Any slip-up between now and then could change the political landscape quickly. A lot depends on how the economy performs over the next year.
Running the country should be the focus right now, not campaigning. Waiting until late 2026 or 2027 is the responsible approach.
There’s no need to rush an election. The government has a mandate and should use the time to finish what it started
Comment *If there’s major regional activity and visible development before the end of 2026, it could definitely boost the ABLP’s chances. Voters respond to momentum and perception.