St. Philip’s North By-Election Set for March 16 Following Sir Robin Yearwood’s Resignation

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St. Philip’s North By-Election Set for March 16 Following Sir Robin Yearwood’s Resignation
(L-r) Sir Robin shakes hands with ABLP caretaker for St. Philips North Randy Baltimore; UPP caretaker for St. Philip’s North Alex Browne

The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has officially begun the process of organising a by-election to fill the parliamentary vacancy created by the resignation of Sir Robin Yearwood.

Yearwood announced his decision to step down during a special sitting of Parliament held in his honour on Wednesday, marking the end of an unprecedented 50-year tenure as Member of Parliament for St. Philip’s North.

The constitutional process to fill the seat is now underway. A Writ of Election was issued today, Thursday 19, formally triggering the by-election, which has been scheduled for Monday, March 16.

The contest is expected to be a closely watched battle between two candidates.

Randy Baltimore, who secured the backing of Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) supporters in a primary held in July 2024, will contest the seat for the governing party. Baltimore enters the race with the goal of retaining the constituency for the ABLP, which has held St. Philip’s North for five decades under Yearwood’s leadership.

Challenging him will be Alex Browne, a United Progressive Party (UPP) Senator appointed in 2023. Browne will be seeking to break the long-standing hold on the constituency and deliver a victory for the opposition.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, political leader of the ABLP, has already publicly thrown his support behind Baltimore. In a post on social media, the Prime Minister wrote: “We look forward to formally receiving Mr. Randy Baltimore – ABLP’s candidate in the upcoming St. Philip’s North by-election – as the newest member of Parliament shortly.”

Both parties are expected to ramp up their campaigns in the coming weeks, as they make their case to eligible voters in St. Philip’s North ahead of what promises to be a significant political contest.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/02/19/st-philips-north-by-election-set-for-march-16-following-sir-robin-yearwoods-resignation. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (11)

  • Sean Casten February 19, 2026, 10:30 AM

    The 2023 general election saw ABLP win by 93 votes. This by-election is going to be one to watch.
    Reply
  • Apex Jones February 19, 2026, 10:58 AM

    Let the campaigning begin
    Reply
  • Sian February 19, 2026, 11:08 AM

    Randy Baltimore has big shoes to fill. Following a 50-year political giant is no small task. Expectations will be sky high.
    Reply
  • Nellie February 19, 2026, 11:09 AM

    History closes one chapter, now the people of St. Philip’s North writes the next one.
    Reply
  • Rhea February 19, 2026, 11:10 AM

    I see Jamale has strong faith in Alex!! Let’s see how well this goes.
    Reply
  • Karen February 19, 2026, 11:10 AM

    Not apart of the constituency but I can only wish both candidates the best and hope they keep up the legacy of Robin
    Reply
  • Yvette Roose February 19, 2026, 11:32 AM

    You have a big shoes to fit
    Reply
  • Ryan Wedding February 19, 2026, 3:30 PM

    Coming up after a man who served for all these years is no easy task
    Reply
  • Tromos February 19, 2026, 8:38 PM

    Labour will always win in that constituency because its a strong hold
    Reply
  • Informed citizen February 19, 2026, 9:44 PM

    who will be the lucky person to fill in such big shoes.
    Reply
  • Glen February 20, 2026, 1:45 PM

    Let your legacy begin
    Reply

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