Prime Minister Gaston Browne delivered an emotional and candid tribute to his wife, Maria Browne, praising her for her exceptional ability to balance the demands of family life with the pressures of high-level public service.

Speaking at Government House following his swearing-in, Browne said Maria Browne—who is expected to resume her role in Cabinet—has demonstrated “enormous patience, skill, dedication and commitment,” not only in her ministerial duties but also in raising their children and maintaining stability at home.

He acknowledged that his own responsibilities as Prime Minister have often limited the time he could dedicate to family life, noting that his wife has carried a significant share of that responsibility over the years.

“I have to tell you, it takes special skill to balance that type of commitment and that type of responsibility,” Browne said. “You have been the drill master for the children, the one who created stability in our home.”

He publicly expressed his admiration and appreciation, describing her support as critical to both their family life and his ability to lead the country.

The Prime Minister also extended his remarks to other female Members of Parliament, recognizing that many face similar challenges in juggling national duties with personal and family obligations.

He said Maria Browne’s experience—particularly over the past eight and a half years in government, including her work within the Ministry of Works and Housing while managing multiple projects—should serve as a powerful example.

“I am hoping that she will be an inspiration to you,” Browne said, adding that her journey demonstrates that it is possible to successfully balance both roles, despite the pressures.

He further stressed the importance of increasing female representation in politics, noting that many women may hesitate to enter public life due to the perceived difficulty of managing both spheres.

“I can understand that many females will see it as a daunting task to balance family life and public life,” he said, while emphasizing that greater participation from women is needed in national leadership.

In a direct appeal to men, particularly husbands, Browne urged them to fully support their partners who choose to pursue careers in public service.

“To the husbands in particular who will have wives engaging in public life, I’m asking you to give them your full support,” he said, before adding in a light-hearted but candid remark, “Don’t be like me.”

The Prime Minister closed by again thanking his wife publicly, underscoring his deep appreciation for her sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering support throughout his time in office.