Former Executive Member of the United Progressive Party (UPP) Desmond Charles has thrown his full support behind Prime Minister Gaston Browne, arguing that leadership remains the defining issue in the upcoming general election.

Speaking to Antigua.news, Charles, who is not aligned to any political party, said voters must look beyond partisan loyalties and focus squarely on who has the capacity to lead the country through what he described as increasingly complex and challenging times.

“Elections are about leadership—who is going to steer the ship and who has the experience and know-how to do so,” Charles said. “When you really examine the responsibility of leading a country, you realize it is one of the most difficult jobs any individual can undertake.”

Charles, who said he still has a very good relationship with Pringle, was particularly critical of UPP Political Leader Jamale Pringle, stating that while he holds no personal ill will, he does not believe Pringle is prepared for the role of Prime Minister.

“I have no malice towards Jamale Pringle, but he is simply not equipped to lead the country at this time,” Charles said, adding that leadership readiness should be a central consideration for voters.

Positioning his comments as grounded in national interest, Charles said his perspective is driven by patriotism and a desire to see Antigua and Barbuda move forward.

“I love Antigua and Barbuda. I am a patriot. We have to look at what is best for the country, not just remain loyal to a political party,” he stated.

While acknowledging that opinions on the Prime Minister may differ, Charles argued that Browne’s experience and record in office cannot be ignored.

“Whether or not you like Gaston Browne, no one can say that he lacks the skills and experience required to take this country forward,” he said.

Charles also pointed to what he described as consistent polling trends showing a significant lead for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), suggesting that many voters are already leaning toward continuity in leadership.

“When it comes to this issue of leadership, I am putting my full support behind Gaston Browne to remain Prime Minister,” he added.

When talks emerged that former leader Harold Lovell should return and take on the leadership mandate, Charles said he told Lovell over a year before the convention that if his role was to become prime minister, he should take some time to equip himself for the position.

With campaigning intensifying ahead of the April 30 general election, Charles’ remarks add to the growing political discourse, placing leadership and experience at the forefront of the national conversation.