Dear Editor on ANR,
I write today with a heavy heart, feeling deeply deceived and hurt by the recent announcement or discussions of a staggering 40% increase in motor registration fees. As a steadfast supporter of this party for almost three decades, this news has left me not only angered but genuinely deflated and puzzled.
How could my party, my government, seem so disconnected from the day-to-day struggles of the 99% of citizens in Antigua and Barbuda?
Is this the same party that, in 2014, abolished personal income tax to boost the spending power of the middle class? How is it now possible that this very government considers it justified to impose such a harsh financial burden on its people?
Honourable leaders, a 40% increase on anything is excessive, particularly in an economic climate where many of us are already forced to forego essential goods and services due to relentless inflation.
I earnestly hope that empathy for the people will prevail and that a more reasonable adjustment will be proposed.
While I understand the necessity of generating revenue for much-needed infrastructure improvements, including better roads, I believe this objective can be achieved without placing undue strain on ordinary citizens.
Honourable Prime Minister, while your ambitions may indeed be well-intentioned, I urge you to remember that we, the people, cannot afford to “cut off our nose to spite our face.” Let us find a balanced approach, one that upholds both progress and compassion.
Respectfully, For Love of Country
