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Smith Yet to Officially Join ABLP but Will Soon, Says Browne as Candidacy Confirmed

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Smith Yet to Officially Join ABLP but Will Soon, Says Browne as Candidacy Confirmed
Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Anthony Smith share a picture moment following his swearing in ceremony. (Photo credit Wayne Mariette)

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.

Shermain Bique-Charles

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Comments (6)

  • Kool March 25, 2026, 1:41 PM

    Politics in Antigua is just musical chairs at this point… same players, different jerseys.

  • Informed citizen March 24, 2026, 11:45 PM

    Politics always have these interesting turns. Saying he hasn’t officially joined yet but will soon definitely raises eyebrows, people will be watching closely to see how that transition plays out.

  • Ryan Wedding March 24, 2026, 9:11 PM

    Independent where? Everybody could see he already on government side. Just make it official and done.

  • Well well March 24, 2026, 3:18 PM

    So wait… you running on ABLP ticket but not officially a member yet? Antigua politics really different yes 😂

  • Louise March 24, 2026, 3:09 PM

    Look how long the man done join the ABLP

  • Juju Bee March 24, 2026, 10:37 AM

    He has to maintain his independent status and when the house is dissolved then he will make his intent public

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