Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the outcome of the 2023 general election was shaped in large part by extraordinary global and economic pressures, including the COVID-19 pandemic, rising inflation and the collapse of regional airline LIAT.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, Browne argued that narrow electoral margins reflected the difficult international environment at the time rather than a rejection of his administration’s policies.

The prime minister pointed to the severe economic disruptions caused by the pandemic, supply chain shocks that fueled inflation, and the fallout from LIAT’s financial collapse as factors that created widespread uncertainty across the region.

He maintained that despite those challenges, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party retained government, describing the result as evidence of continued public support under difficult circumstances.

Browne said conditions have since stabilized and expressed confidence that voters will assess his administration’s record against the backdrop of recovery and ongoing economic activity.

The remarks came as the governing party prepares for the upcoming St. Philip’s North by-election, with both major parties intensifying campaign messaging.