In recent days, there has been increasing chatter about leadership within the United Progressive Party (UPP).

Some supporters and commentators have floated names like Richard Lewis and even Harold Lovell as potential new leaders, sparking unnecessary speculation and contributing to a sense of confusion within the party.

These conversations, while possibly well-intentioned, ignore a critical truth: Jamale Pringle is the duly elected leader of the UPP, and he deserves a fair chance to lead.

Let’s not forget that both Pringle and Chairman Gisele Isaac were chosen by the party through democratic elections at the convention.

Whether or not everyone agrees with their leadership style, they won their respective positions through the will of the delegates.

That matters. Democracy must be respected, especially within our own ranks. They moved delegates around to win the convention, just like any other constituency branch.

That’s the usual in all our conventions.

Yes, Jamale Pringle is young and still learning.

He may not be perfect—no leader is—but he brings valuable experience to the role.

He spent five years as the sole opposition voice in Parliament, standing alone for the UPP when others stepped aside.

That kind of resilience and dedication counts for something.

He now has a team around him, including a seasoned chairman in Gisele Isaac, and he should be allowed to grow into his role with Isaac’s guidance.

Critics have also pointed fingers at Pringle’s recent actions, but the reality is that every new leader faces a learning curve.

Instead of tearing him down, the party and its supporters should rally around him. Constructive criticism is necessary—but so is support and party loyalty.

As for the calls for Harold Lovell’s return—there is no denying Lovell’s contribution to the party and to Antigua and Barbuda. But his time has passed. We must look to the future, not the past.

Richard Lewis, too, has had opportunities to lead, but he is hardly the people’s choice, especially when compared to Pringle’s relatability and grassroots appeal.

Ironically, Lewis may be even less accessible to the public than Chairman Isaac, who herself faces criticism for not being the most “people-friendly” leader.

And then there’s the daily commentary on radio, with individuals like Dane Knight attacking Pringle and even discussing monies he made.

It raises the question: is this about genuine concern, or is it simple jealousy? Jamale Pringle is a young man who worked hard to get where he is.

He didn’t inherit the party; he did not exploit the elderly for their fortune—he earned his role through perseverance, dedication, and the trust of the people of All Saints East and St. Luke.

They voted for him, and they deserve to have their choice respected.

The UPP must not fall into the trap of undermining its own leadership from within.

Unity is strength, and right now, the best way forward is to support Jamale Pringle and allow him the opportunity to prove himself.

The next general election will come soon enough. Until then, let’s give him the chance he has rightfully earned.