Browne Fires Warning Shot: “No Misconduct, No Abuse” as He Tells Cabinet Trust Is Sacred

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a blunt warning to his Cabinet, declaring that there will be zero tolerance for misuse of public resources as his administration begins a new term following a commanding election win.

Speaking Saturday night on the Browne and Browne Show on Point FM, Browne said the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s landslide victory—securing 15 of the 17 seats—comes with heightened responsibility and expectations.

“The trust of the people is sacred,” Browne said. “There must be no abuse of public resources whatsoever.”

He stressed that the overwhelming mandate must translate into disciplined governance and measurable results, warning ministers against complacency.

“I expect each of us as ministers to honour the trust of the people,” he said, adding that public office is about service, not personal gain.

Browne made it clear that every member of his administration will be required to perform at a high level, as the government pushes forward with its development agenda.

“We expect to operate at a high level of performance to honour their trust,” he said, noting that ministers must “work seriously” and “work strenuously” to deliver for the country.

He emphasized that public funds must be used strictly for national development, insisting that resources belong to the people and must directly benefit them.

“Public resources must be utilised exclusively for the benefit of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister also signaled that accountability will be a defining feature of his fourth term, warning that any breach of trust will not be tolerated.

“That trust will not be betrayed,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to maintaining strict standards within his government.

With a strong parliamentary majority secured, Browne said the focus now shifts from victory to delivery, making it clear that his administration will be judged by its performance over the next five years.