Peaceful Election Showed Strength of Antigua and Barbuda’s Democracy-Sir Rodney Williams

Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has praised Antigua and Barbuda’s electorate for what he described as an exemplary and peaceful general election campaign, declaring that the country demonstrated a level of democratic maturity comparable to some of the world’s most established democracies.

Speaking during Tuesday’s Throne Speech at the ceremonial opening of Parliament, Sir Rodney congratulated the newly elected administration and all parliamentarians while reflecting on the conduct of the April 30 general election campaign.

“The actions of the entire population during the recent weeks of campaigning by the political parties and independent candidates were nothing short of exemplary,” Sir Rodney said.

He emphasized that throughout the four-week campaign period there was “not a single incident of vandalism or violence,” describing the atmosphere as one that upheld the dignity of the nation’s democratic traditions.

“The entire four-week experience easily exceeded the dignity and high regard usually attributed to more mature democracies,” he stated.

Sir Rodney said the peaceful nature of the election reflected the wisdom and political maturity of the Antiguan and Barbudan people, adding, “We are a great nation.”

The Governor General also acknowledged the strong participation of young voters in shaping the outcome of the election, noting that youth influence featured heavily both in the campaign and in the vision for the country’s future.

“The people of Antigua and Barbuda have spoken and the voice of the people is the voice of God,” Sir Rodney declared as he addressed members of both Houses of Parliament and invited guests.

The remarks came as Parliament officially opened a new legislative session following the ruling administration’s commanding election victory last month.