Lamin Newton has been reappointed as an Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) senator despite losing his bid for the All-Saints East and St. Luke constituency in last week’s general election.

Newton was the only ABLP candidate defeated at the polls, losing the seat to United Progressive Party Political Leader Jamale Pringle in one of the closely watched races of the election.

The reappointment signals continued confidence in Newton from the Gaston Browne-led administration, with the party moving swiftly to retain him within its parliamentary structure following the electoral setback.

Newton officially took his oath as senator on Friday, returning to the Upper House.

During the campaign, the contest between Newton and Pringle attracted significant national attention, with the constituency viewed as a major political battleground.

Pringle ultimately held the seat for the opposition, while the ABLP secured a commanding victory nationally, winning 15 of the 17 seats contested in the April 30 general election.

Newton has remained a visible figure within the party and was heavily involved in the ABLP’s campaign efforts leading up to the polls.

His reappointment is expected to keep him actively involved in government business and party affairs despite not securing a seat in the Lower House.