Prime Minister Gaston Browne has dismissed the United Progressive Party’s(UPP) latest slate of candidates as uninspiring, arguing that the opposition has failed to present fresh leadership capable of energizing voters.

Browne ridiculed the UPP’s approach to candidate selection, stating that the party is relying on “old and washed-up” individuals rather than offering dynamic and viable alternatives to the electorate. He pointed to figures such as Harold Lovell and Alister Thomas, describing them as relics of the past who lack the ability to revitalize the party.

“All washed-up people, whatever they bring on the front line,” Browne remarked, adding that even the newer candidates introduced by the UPP lack the strength to challenge the governing Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).

His comments follow the UPP’s announcement of 14 out of 16 candidates for the next general election, with Political Leader Jamale Pringle stating that the final two selections will be made shortly. Among the candidates are returning figures such as Franz DeFreitas in St. John’s City South, Alister Thomas in St. John’s City West, and Ashworth Azille in St. John’s Rural East. The party also introduced new faces like Barbara Coates in All Saints West and Wayne Benjamin Marsh in St. Paul.

Browne also alleged internal divisions within the UPP, suggesting that candidate selection was more about consolidating Pringle’s leadership rather than fielding the strongest possible team. He claimed that the party lacks momentum and is in a state of decline, unable to mount a serious challenge to the ABLP in the next election.

With the political landscape heating up, the Prime Minister positioned the ABLP as the only party with the leadership and vision to govern effectively, contrasting his party’s approach with what he described as the UPP’s struggles to remain relevant.