ABLP Accuses UPP of Mixed Messaging on Vehicle Duty Policy

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) is raising questions about the United Progressive Party’s (UPP) economic proposals, pointing to what it describes as a contradiction between the party’s campaign messaging and its published policy documents on vehicle import duties.

In a series of social media posts, the ABLP highlighted differences between a UPP campaign graphic promoting the elimination of duties on personal vehicle imports and sections of the party’s official manifesto, which outline a 50 percent reduction instead.

One widely circulated UPP campaign post states that the party “will eliminate duty on vehicles for personal use,” framing the proposal as a full waiver aimed at easing the financial burden on households.

However, the UPP’s website presents a different approach, indicating a “50% duty reduction” on personal and commercial vehicles, while maintaining full exemptions only for farm equipment.

The ABLP seized on the discrepancy, questioning whether the opposition party has a clear and consistent policy position.

In one of its posts, the ABLP asked whether the UPP was “confused or lied,” arguing that the conflicting statements suggest the party is “not ready” to govern.

The issue has quickly become a point of political contention as campaigning intensifies ahead of the April 30 general election, with both parties seeking to frame economic relief proposals as central to their platforms.

The UPP has not publicly responded to the specific criticism highlighted in the ABLP posts. It remains unclear whether the campaign messaging reflects an updated policy position or a simplified version of the manifesto proposal.

Vehicle import duties have long been a politically sensitive issue in Antigua and Barbuda, with calls for reductions often tied to broader concerns about the cost of living and access to transportation.

The ABLP’s critique forms part of a broader effort by the governing party to challenge the credibility of the opposition’s proposals, while the UPP has continued to promote its platform as offering meaningful relief to citizens.