Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith has not yet officially requested to become a member of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), but is expected to do so soon.

Browne however, confirmed that Smith will contest the next general election on the ABLP ticket—formalizing a political transition that had long been anticipated.

While the announcement carries political weight, it comes as little surprise to observers of the local landscape.

Smith has continued to identify himself as an independent Member of Parliament, but his actions over the past year have consistently aligned with the governing party.

Since parting ways with the United Progressive Party (UPP) in July 2024, he has taken up a Cabinet role as Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, participated in ABLP activities, and supported government positions in Parliament.