Candidates of the two major political parties

Candidates from the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM), and a number of independent contenders are expected to be formally nominated today as the country marks Nomination Day for the 2026 general elections.

The nomination process is taking place across all 17 constituencies, with designated centres including schools and public institutions such as Villa Government School in St. John’s City West, Clare Hall Secondary School in St. John’s Rural East, and Sir McChesney George Secondary School in Barbuda.

According to guidelines issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, nomination proceedings run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., during which candidates must submit completed nomination papers and meet all legal requirements to contest the election.

Those requirements include being at least 21 years old, holding Antiguan and Barbudan citizenship, and residing in the country for at least one year prior to the election. Candidates must also submit nomination papers signed by a proposer, a seconder, and eight additional registered electors from the constituency.

Each candidate is also required to pay a deposit of EC$500 and provide written consent to be nominated, with the process overseen by the returning officer in each constituency.

Nomination Day is a key milestone in the electoral calendar, officially confirming the slate of candidates who will contest the upcoming general election. The final list of nominees is expected to be published following the close of proceedings.

Today’s activities are likely to draw party supporters to nomination centres across the island, as political organisations mobilise ahead of the April 30 general election.