ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (AP) — The writ has been formally issued for the St. Philip’s North by-election, setting Nomination Day for Feb. 25 and Election Day for March 16, as the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) signaled full mobilization to retain the seat.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said Friday that the election process was officially triggered following the retirement of long-serving Member of Parliament Sir Robin Yearwood.
“The writ for elections has been officially issued by the Governor General, Sir Rodney Williams, following communication from the Prime Minister,” Merchant said during the post-Cabinet briefing.
He confirmed that the writ has been published in the Antigua and Barbuda Gazette, formally commencing the constitutional process.
“Nomination Day, when parties will put forward their respective candidates for that by-election, will be on the 25th of February,” Merchant said. “The by-election is scheduled for March 16.”
The vacancy follows Yearwood’s resignation after 50 years of service in Parliament.
Merchant said the governing party is preparing aggressively for the contest.
“The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party machinery will be fully mobilized to ensure the party and the government retains the St. Philip’s North constituency,” he said, noting that the seat has been represented by the party continuously since 1976.
He also confirmed that ABLP candidate Randy Baltimore has resigned from his position in the public service in order to contest the election.
“Former campaign officer for Sir Robin and former customs official Randy Baltimore has resigned from public service to actively participate in the upcoming election on behalf of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party,” Merchant said.
Cabinet, he added, expressed support for the electoral process.
“The Cabinet expressed its full support for the election process and underscored the importance of continued democratic engagement in Antigua and Barbuda,” Merchant said.
The March 16 vote will determine who fills the parliamentary seat for St. Philip’s North following Yearwood’s departure from active politics.