What is going on with Antigua and Barbuda’s opposition?

Did the United Progressive Party not understand that immediately after the general election, it needed to hit the ground running and urgently reorganise? More importantly, does the party understand that it needs a strong leadership team in which the public can place its confidence?

I am no politician, but if I were advising the UPP, I would tell its members to act with urgency or risk having Gaston Browne remain prime minister for at least another two terms.

The party cannot continue operating as though time is on its side. Elections are not won during the few months leading up to polling day. The groundwork must begin years in advance through strong leadership, effective organisation, credible candidates and a clear alternative programme for the country.

I have no doubt that Antigua and Barbuda voted correctly in the last general election. The Pringle-led UPP was simply not ready to govern, and that weakness showed at the polls.

Unless the party confronts its shortcomings and makes meaningful changes, voters may once again conclude that, whatever their concerns about the government, the opposition is still not a credible alternative.

The UPP must decide whether it is serious about governing or content merely to remain in opposition.

Concerned Citizen

Source: Antigua News Room LETTER: I still think we made the right decision!.