Newly appointed Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle says the United Progressive Party (UPP) is preparing to rebuild and “come with force” following the party’s defeat in Antigua and Barbuda’s April 30 general election.

Speaking to ABS Television shortly after officially receiving his instruments of appointment at Government House on Monday, Pringle said the UPP intends to adopt a stronger and more aggressive approach in Parliament as it seeks to regain public confidence.

“We have to build the confidence of the people,” Pringle said. “Under my leadership, as Leader of the Opposition and as leader of the party, I will ensure that we regroup and come with force to gain the trust of the public of Antigua and Barbuda.”

Pringle, who was formally appointed Opposition Leader by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams earlier in the day, said he felt “humbled” and “elated” to once again assume the constitutional role.

“It has been quite some time that I’ve been out,” Pringle said as he reflected on returning to Parliament.

He pledged that the public could expect “representation with a greater force,” promising a more aggressive and assertive opposition presence in the coming parliamentary term.

“Representation that is more aggressive, representation that they deserve,” he stated.

Pringle also suggested that his second stint as Opposition Leader would be markedly different from his first experience following the 2018 election.

“Yes, I think that my tenure this time around will be a lot stronger than in the past,” he said.

The UPP political leader reflected on entering Parliament for the first time in 2018 and immediately assuming the responsibilities of Opposition Leader.

“When I started in 2018, I was literally a rookie,” Pringle said. “My first time ever being in the House of Parliament, more so to be Leader of the Opposition with such great responsibility.”

He said the experience helped him grow politically and personally over the years.

“I embraced it,” he added. “I would have grown from strength to strength with the support of the people of Antigua and Barbuda and I intend to continue to do more with the support of the people.”

Pringle also used the interview to explain the rationale behind the UPP’s Senate appointments, which saw the party select several new faces for the Upper House.

According to Pringle, the party sought to balance fresh perspectives with experience and institutional knowledge.

“Generally, we need to bring new people to the fore as well as maintain some experience,” he explained.

He pointed specifically to newly appointed Senator Chester Hughes, describing him as an important addition because of his history of advocacy on behalf of workers and his parliamentary experience.

“Hence the reason for Brother Chester Hughes representing,” Pringle said. “He has been an advocate for the working class. He has been a force to be reckoned with in Parliament.”

Pringle said the blend of youth, experience and intellect among the senators would strengthen the opposition’s performance in the Senate.

“I think with the new faces, with the experience, the intellect, the wisdom, the Senate will be just as strong as the lower house,” he said.

The Opposition Leader also expressed optimism about the contributions expected from the newly appointed senators.

“I’m looking forward to great contributions from these individuals,” Pringle stated.

He congratulated all four opposition senators and thanked them for helping to keep the UPP active and relevant following the election.

“I just want again to say congratulations to all the senators appointed and also to express my gratitude to them for putting their efforts in, ensuring that the United Progressive Party remains vibrant,” he said.

Pringle added that the appointments were aimed at ensuring “true representation” for the people of Antigua and Barbuda in both chambers of Parliament.

The UPP’s opposition team in the Senate now includes Ashworth Azille, Jonathan Wehner and Chester Hughes, while Senator-designate Malaka Parker is expected to be sworn in at a later date after missing Monday’s ceremony due to travel.