Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has assumed full responsibility for the personal and professional development of Dwayne George, a man handpicked by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party to contest the By-Election in St Mary’s South.

Although George was unsuccessful in his bid, he was recently sworn in as a senator and Junior Minister in the Ministry of Finance.

During the official swearing-in ceremony, PM Browne deeply appreciated George’s hard work and dedication to the country.

He also reiterated his belief in George’s talent and potential and his commitment to helping him achieve his goals for the betterment of Antigua and Barbuda.

“He is an economist, so he is not coming in empty-headed or empty-handed; he is coming with intellectual resources that he can utilize for the benefit of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” PM Browne said

Additionally, he said George would be in a better position to help the people of St Mary’s South.

“As my prodigy, I will make sure that I continue to provide opportunities for him and coach him…”

Meanwhile, Browne admonished residents of St Mary’s South to be reasonable in their demands to their new minister.

“I want to caution that the demands have to be reasonable; making him a minister doesn’t make him a panacea to solve all of your problems. You have to be reasonable and patient and to work with him not to make unreasonable demands and destroy him because, at the end of the day, we are depending on him to take this seat at the next general elections,” PM Browne added.

Where criticisms are concerned, Browne spoke directly to George, saying he should respond to the complaint.

“None of us are perfect, and you should be able to determine criticisms that are malicious compared to those that are able to fuel your growth and development…Even the most insignificant among us may have ideas that they can share with you for your advancement…I asked you to listen to all,” PM Browne added.

Meanwhile, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams told George that upholding the rule of law fosters an environment of accountability, justice, and equality for all citizens.

“The greatest public good should always be our guiding principle.  There is a principle called the utilitarian principle, which goes like this. It is the greatest good for the greatest number, and it’s always a good principle to remember. All policies and decisions should be designed to promote the well-being of our entire nation,” Sir Rodney said

He said George has a unique opportunity to contribute to policies that embrace the lives of all citizens, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances.

“Your commitment to the common good is crucial in building a just and prosperous society. Lastly, our national development is a collective endeavor that demands collaboration, innovation, and foresight. The Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance, and public private partnership plays a central role in driving economic growth and development,” Sir Rodney added

He also urged George to work closely with the Prime Minister and to employ innovative ways to foster partnerships between the public and private sectors, as these alliances have the potential to unlock new opportunities for our nation’s advancement.

“We entrust you with these important roles and ask that you carry out your duties with dedication, integrity, and a profound commitment to the principles I’ve outlined today. You have a unique opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our nation, and I encourage you to embrace this responsibility with the utmost sincerity and humility. I wish you every success in your new roles as Senator and Minister of State,” Sir Rodney added.

George spoke to reports following his swearing-in, saying that he vows to continue to work to ensure the better good of his constituents.