Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party leader Gaston Browne warned voters against what he described as the risks of inexperienced leadership, while touting his administration’s record and urging support for continuity ahead of the April 30 general election.

Addressing supporters at the party’s national convention, Browne framed the vote as a critical decision for a small island state navigating global economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures and geopolitical instability.

“In such a world, the future cannot be gambled. It cannot be handed over to inexperience,” he said, arguing that leadership choices in small developing countries carry heightened consequences.

He said Antigua and Barbuda’s progress in recent years was the result of deliberate policy decisions, pointing to economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, job creation and rising incomes.

“These are not slogans. These are facts,” Browne told delegates, as he defended the government’s performance and sought to contrast it with what he suggested would be uncertainty under alternative leadership.

Browne also highlighted ongoing and planned investments in infrastructure, including roads, water systems and public services, telling supporters that development would continue beyond the election cycle.

“Our choices must be careful. Our leadership must be steady. Our direction must be clear,” he said, adding that maintaining stability would be key to sustaining economic gains.

He urged party supporters to remain unified and mobilised, describing the election as a moment that would determine whether the country builds on its current trajectory or risks disruption.

The prime minister also pointed to the party’s upcoming manifesto, expected later this month, which he said would outline the next phase of national development, including expanded opportunities for youth, improved social services and continued economic growth.

Browne did not name political opponents directly but suggested that the country could not afford policy missteps, particularly given its size and exposure to external shocks.

The convention, held at the party’s headquarters, also saw the ratification of candidates and a series of presentations ahead of the election, with party officials encouraging supporters to ensure their voter identification cards are in order.

Antigua and Barbuda heads to the polls on April 30 in what is expected to be a closely watched contest between the ruling party and opposition groups seeking to unseat it.