Anthony Smith Jr. is defending his decision to leave the United Progressive Party and align himself with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, arguing that the move was driven by a need to deliver tangible results for constituents rather than remain in opposition.

Speaking during an election interview, Smith said his experience on both sides of the political divide convinced him that meaningful development can only be achieved from within government.

“You cannot continue to ask the people just to vote for you just to keep you in opposition,” he said, adding that political parties must be “viable” and capable of winning power in order to improve lives.

Smith, who was elected in 2023 on a UPP ticket before later becoming an independent Member of Parliament and government minister, said his departure followed internal disagreements over the party’s direction.

He claimed that the opposition was more focused on internal power struggles and maintaining its position than on presenting a credible path to governance. “They felt more focused on staying in opposition than in winning government,” he said, also accusing the party of relying on “propaganda” rather than development-focused policies.

In contrast, Smith said his time working alongside the government showed him what he described as a genuine commitment to national development, pointing to investments in infrastructure, housing, education and healthcare.

“That was certainly the right decision to be able to serve the people of All Saints West,” he said.

The switch has been a central issue in the campaign, with critics labeling the move a betrayal of voters who elected him under the UPP banner. Smith, however, has sought to reframe the decision as one rooted in responsibility and outcomes.

He said his priority has remained consistent — improving conditions in the constituency — and argued that aligning with the governing party has enabled him to accelerate projects and secure resources that would not have been possible from the opposition benches.

With the April 30 general election approaching, Smith is positioning his record since joining the ABLP as evidence that access to executive power translates into delivery on the ground, particularly in areas such as infrastructure and public services.

The All Saints West race is expected to be closely contested, with Smith urging voters to judge his decision based on results rather than party allegiance.