The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has retained its grip on St John’s Rural East, with Maria Bird Browne successfully defending the seat in Thursday’s general elections.

As expected, Bird Browne emerged victorious over the United Progressive Party’s (UPP) candidate, Ashworth Azille, in what was closely watched as part of the broader national contest.

Her win reinforces the ABLP’s strength in the constituency, where she has maintained solid support among voters. The result adds to the party’s growing list of victories as ballots continue to be counted across the country.